Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary

Episode: Top 10 Shocking Stats from 2018 + Trade Targets
Release Date: February 7, 2019
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

Introduction

The hosts kick off the episode with their usual camaraderie, exchanging playful banter about hats and setting an energetic tone for the show. They briefly mention the Ultimate Draft Kit for 2019, highlighting its new features and promotional offers.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway [00:00]: "You can pre order the 2019 Ultimate Draft Kit right now at ultimatedraftkit.com."

Top 10 Shocking Stats from 2018

The core of the episode revolves around analyzing ten surprising statistics from the 2018 NFL season and discussing their implications for fantasy football players in the upcoming 2019 season. The stats were sourced from the show's editor in chief, Borgogan Kyle, ensuring well-researched insights.

1. QB Boom Boomers

   • Stat: In 2017, there were only six quarterbacks who completed 65%+ of their passes, whereas in 2018, this number surged to 20.
   • Discussion: The hosts debate whether this trend signifies a new normal or an anomaly influenced by exceptional players like Patrick Mahomes.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore [16:50]: "I think this was a swing a little bit too far. But you're right. Andy Patrick Mahomes himself is... Mahomes is going to skew this number just by himself."

2. Running Back Dominance in Select Teams

   • Stat: The Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Chargers each had two running backs finish in the top 24. Conversely, six teams, including the Jets and Ravens, had no running backs in the top 30.
   • Discussion: Exploration of which teams might target running backs in the offseason and the impact of injuries on these stats.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Mike Wright [19:42]: "Of the teams that didn't have a back in the top 30, who are you most interested in?"

3. Surge in 100-Yard Receiving Games

   • Stat: There were 114 single-week wide receiver performances of 100+ yards in 2017, increasing to 172 in 2018.
   • Discussion: Analysis of whether certain wide receivers can maintain or surpass their performance levels.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore [21:51]: "I do agree with that."

4. Rebounding Tight Ends

   • Stat: Three tight ends registered top 15 all-time seasons in PPR scoring: Travis Kelce, Zach Ertz, and George Kittle.
   • Discussion: Potential for these tight ends to improve and whether upcoming tight ends can reach elite levels.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Mike Wright [27:35]: "He is almost like, he's like a hybrid of Kelsey and Ertz."

5. Kansas City Chiefs' Receiving Touchdowns by Running Backs

   • Stat: The Chiefs' running backs combined for 12 receiving touchdowns, equaling what 11 other NFL teams achieved.
   • Discussion: Implications for Damien Williams’ ceiling and the Chiefs' offensive strategy under Patrick Mahomes.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore [32:25]: "But it's also 10 fewer touchdowns than he threw this season."

6. Increased Quarterback Completion Rates

   • Stat: In 2017, six quarterbacks completed 65%+ of their passes. In 2018, this number rose to 20.
   • Discussion: Impact on fantasy quarterback valuations and the evolving quarterback playstyles.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore [36:12]: "So this is not just a guy coming in for one game, playing half in relief."

7. Value of Pass-Catching Running Backs

   • Stat: In 2018, running backs averaged 0.627 fantasy points per rushing attempt and 1.17 points per target in half-point leagues.
   • Discussion: Emphasis on the importance of running backs who excel in the passing game and adjusting draft strategies accordingly.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Andy Holloway [40:37]: "We don't need to wait as long to buy into a pass-catching running back only weapon."

8. Wide Receiver Ones from Late Rounds

   • Stat: Twelve wide receivers drafted outside the top 40 had stretches of at least four games as the primary wide receiver.
   • Discussion: Identification of undervalued wide receivers who can become primary targets and their potential future performance.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore [43:10]: "Dante Pettis... he is Garoppolo's wide receiver one."

9. Streaming Defenses

   • Stat: Over the last decade, only one number-one fantasy defense repeated in the top five the following year.
   • Discussion: Advocating for streaming defenses rather than investing heavily in a single defensive unit due to high variability.
   • Notable Quote:
     • Mike Wright [47:13]: "You've got matchup problems. Streaming defenses is streaming."

10. Increase in Passing Touchdowns

    • Stat: Passing touchdowns increased from 738 in 2017 to 834 in 2018, with top quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes leading the surge.
    • Discussion: Evaluation of which quarterbacks might regress to more sustainable touchdown numbers and the overall trend in passing efficiency.
    • Notable Quote:
      • Andy Holloway [49:14]: "Pat Mahomes threw for 10 fewer, and still is great."

Trade Targets

Following the shocking stats, the hosts shift focus to identifying potential trade targets for dynasty leagues. They emphasize targeting undervalued or emerging players who can provide significant returns.

• Jason Moore's Recommendations:

  • John Brown: A free agent with a promising past performance, likely to be acquired by teams needing a reliable WR2.
  • Zay Jones: Emerging as a potential late-round flyer with increased targets.

• Andy Holloway's Recommendations:

  • Dante Pettis and Quincy Enunwa: Players who showed potential and could secure more prominent roles in their respective teams.

• Mike Wright's Recommendations:

  • Isaiah McKenzie and Albert Wilson: Players who can leverage improved offensive schemes or quarterback play to enhance their fantasy value.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore [11:47]: "John Brown will get paid. He will go somewhere to be the number two for that team at least. And he's going to cost you absolutely nothing."

Final Thoughts

The hosts wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of understanding and leveraging statistical insights for successful fantasy football management. They encourage listeners to stay informed, adapt their strategies based on evolving trends, and utilize resources like the Ultimate Draft Kit.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway [38:00]: "This is illustrating the value of a past catching running back."

Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the 2018 NFL season's unexpected trends and their direct implications for fantasy football enthusiasts. By dissecting these stats and offering strategic trade targets, the Fantasy Footballers equip their audience with the knowledge to excel in their leagues for the 2019 season.

Additional Resources:

• Pre-Order Ultimate Draft Kit: ultimatedraftkit.com
• Follow on Social Media:
  • Twitter: @theFFballers
  • Instagram: @fantasyfootballers
• Join the Community: jointhefoot.com

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the valuable insights and discussions pertinent to fantasy football strategies derived from the 2018 season's statistics.