Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary: "Top 20 Countdown + Big Bear Value"
Release Date: July 3, 2018
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright (with guest J. Grizz)
1. Introduction and Community Engagement (00:00 - 02:25)
Andy Holloway kicks off the episode with a vibrant greeting to the Foot Clan community, encouraging listeners to vote for the Fantasy Footballers Podcast in the People’s Choice Sports and Recreation Podcast of the Year awards.
- Andy Holloway (00:03): "What's going on? Foot Clan."
- Jason Moore (00:26): "Make sure when you go to footclanvote.com you check the box that says you want to be one of the voters."
The hosts briefly discuss the show’s lineup, noting Mike Wright's absence and the appearance of J. Grizz, who brings his own unique flair to the session.
2. Announcing Increased Frequency and New Shows (02:25 - 08:56)
A significant announcement is made regarding the podcast's expansion to three shows a week, with plans to scale up to five shows weekly from August through December. Additionally, the hosts introduce their new venture, the Spitballers Podcast, a weekly hour-long debate show focused on light-hearted, family-friendly topics.
- Jason Moore (02:32): "It's over 1 million shows."
- Andy Holloway (08:18): "We are ridiculous human beings... Spitballers Podcast."
3. NFL News and Updates (09:14 - 37:56)
a. Jameis Winston Suspension (09:14 - 12:54)
The podcast delves into Jameis Winston’s three-game suspension due to a personal conduct policy violation. The hosts commend Winston for accepting the suspension without appeal, emphasizing the importance of accountability for a franchise quarterback.
- Jason Moore (09:49): "He recognized that he was in the wrong, that he needs to do better."
b. Robert Turbin Suspension and Impact on the Colts (12:54 - 19:04)
Robert Turbin of the Colts is suspended for four games for a performance-enhancing drug violation. This development opens up opportunities for players like Jordan Wilkins and Marlon Mack, shifting the running back dynamics within the team.
- Andy Holloway (12:54): "This suspension completely changed the equation for Turbin on the entire year."
- Jason Moore (19:04): "Turbin is now irrelevant."
c. Additional NFL Insights (19:04 - 37:56)
The hosts touch on various NFL topics, including team strategies, player performances, and potential shifts in team dynamics, offering their expert analysis on how these factors influence fantasy football decisions.
- Andy Holloway (26:09): "Christian McCaffrey finished the 11th best running back last year in PPR leagues."
- Jason Moore (36:53): "Likely, the offense will take a step back."
4. Top 20 Players Countdown (14:07 - 48:44)
The core of the episode features a comprehensive countdown of the top 20 fantasy football players, blending running backs and wide receivers based on consensus rankings.
a. Highlighted Players:
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Devonta Freeman (#20):
- Andy Holloway (14:10): "Devonta Freeman had incredible 2015 and 2016 seasons but saw a drop in targets last year."
- Jason Moore (15:23): "Devonta Freeman right now is a great value."
-
Michael Thomas (#19):
- Andy Holloway (17:12): "Michael Thomas is consistent and finished seventh and sixth in fantasy last two seasons."
- Jason Moore (19:46): "Michael Thomas is ripped and has unbelievable hands."
-
Keenan Allen (#18):
- Andy Holloway (21:16): "Keenan Allen had a banner year last season with standout finishes."
- Jason Moore (23:45): "If he's on the field, he's going to be great."
-
Christian McCaffrey (#17):
- Andy Holloway (26:09): "Christian McCaffrey was a multi-faceted weapon last season."
- Jason Moore (28:11): "Christian McCaffrey's draft position has higher risk than it seems."
-
Dalvin Cook (#12):
- Andy Holloway (42:06): "Dalvin Cook is a talented running back returning from injury on a great team."
- Jason Moore (42:25): "Dalvin Cook is being drafted as the 10th running back on the board."
-
Leonard Fournette (#13):
- Andy Holloway (39:06): "Leonard Fournette had a solid season despite missing games."
- Jason Moore (39:08): "Leonard Fournette is a beast and a primary producer."
-
Julio Jones (#11):
- Andy Holloway (46:22): "Julio Jones has been inconsistent but remains a top fantasy receiver."
- Jason Moore (47:36): "I see Julio Jones dropping into the mid-rounds this season."
-
Odell Beckham Jr. (#10):
- Andy Holloway (48:06): "Odell Beckham Jr. has been a reliable fantasy performer."
- Jason Moore (48:39): "Odell Beckham is very good and not to be underestimated."
b. Notable Insights:
- Value Assessment: Players like [Leonard Fournette and Keenan Allen] are highlighted for their high potential and consistency despite some risks.
- Risk Factors: Discussions around injuries and team dynamics, especially concerning players like [Christian McCaffrey] and [Dalvin Cook], emphasize the balance between high ceilings and potential setbacks.
- Draft Strategy: The hosts provide nuanced views on drafting positions, suggesting flexibility based on player performance and team changes.
5. Mailbag Segment (49:28 - 58:14)
The hosts engage with listener questions, offering personalized advice on fantasy football strategies.
a. Super Flex and Dynasty Leagues:
Listeners inquire about adapting draft strategies for Super Flex and dynasty leagues. The hosts emphasize maintaining a tier-based approach while adjusting for the increased value of quarterbacks.
- Jason Moore (50:22): "Don't overemphasize the quarterback."
b. Providing Advice to League Mates:
A question arises about whether it’s fair to provide potentially misleading advice to league mates known for relying on the listener’s expertise. The hosts discuss the ethical considerations, balancing friendly competition with supportive advice.
- Jason Moore (53:23): "If it's a long-time league with buddies, I’m tricking them to the best of my ability."
c. Reaching for Mark Ingram:
A listener seeks advice on drafting Mark Ingram and weighing his short-term gains against long-term reliability. The hosts discuss the potential risks and benefits based on team dynamics and player history.
- Andy Holloway (55:29): "He’s a free agent, isn’t he, after this season."
- Jason Moore (55:35): "He's 29 years old, and there is still the world where someone comes in."
6. Closing Remarks and Final Announcements (58:03 - End)
As the episode concludes, the hosts remind listeners to nominate the podcast for awards and promote their live show in Dallas, emphasizing community engagement and upcoming events.
- Andy Holloway (57:00): "Go to ballerslive.com the shows are a great time."
- Jason Moore (58:14): "Join our fantasy football community on JoinTheFoot.com and follow us on Twitter @TheFFBallers."
Notable Quotes:
- Andy Holloway (02:25): "We're moving to five shows a week from August through December."
- Jason Moore (09:49): "He recognized that he was in the wrong, that he needs to do better."
- Andy Holloway (14:10): "Devonta Freeman had incredible 2015 and 2016 seasons but saw a drop in targets last year."
- Jason Moore (15:23): "Devonta Freeman right now is a great value."
- Jason Moore (19:46): "Michael Thomas is ripped and has unbelievable hands."
- Andy Holloway (21:16): "Keenan Allen had a banner year last season with standout finishes."
- Jason Moore (23:45): "If he's on the field, he's going to be great."
- Jason Moore (53:23): "If it's a long-time league with buddies, I’m tricking them to the best of my ability."
Key Takeaways:
- Top 20 Player Rankings: A balanced mix of running backs and wide receivers with detailed analysis on each player’s fantasy prospects.
- Strategy Adjustments: Insights on adapting drafting strategies for different league formats, emphasizing flexibility and tier-based selection.
- Community Engagement: Encouragement for listener participation through votes, feedback, and live show attendance.
- Ethical Considerations: Thoughtful discussion on providing advice to league mates, balancing competitiveness with fairness.
This episode is a treasure trove for fantasy football enthusiasts, offering in-depth analysis, strategic advice, and engaging discussions to help listeners navigate their fantasy seasons with confidence and flair.