Fantasy Footballers Podcast - Episode Summary: Week 1 Insights + TNF Preview, Quadzilla
Release Date: September 9, 2020
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Excitement for the Upcoming NFL Season

As the NFL season approaches, the Fantasy Footballers express their enthusiasm for the impending action. Jason Moore [01:08] humorously refers to the day as "Football Eve," emphasizing the anticipation surrounding the League of Record Draft. The hosts discuss recent NFL-related content, including their viewing of HBO's "Hard Knocks," and share light-hearted banter about not making particular teams [01:53].

2. Buy or Sell Segment

In their weekly Buy or Sell segment [04:29], the hosts evaluate specific players to determine whether fantasy owners should acquire (buy) or drop (sell) them. This segment provides actionable insights for fantasy managers looking to optimize their rosters for Week 1.

Darren Waller – Buy

Mike Wright introduces Darren Waller as a candidate for purchase [04:37]. Despite Waller being under-discussed, Andy Holloway [05:11] highlights his potential upside, especially with Carolina’s revamped wide receiver corps. He notes, “Ken, Darren Waller really hit that same ceiling,” indicating confidence in Waller's breakout potential.

Le'Veon Bell – Sell

The consensus among the hosts is to sell Le'Veon Bell [07:07]. Andy Holloway and Mike Wright agree that with Adam Gaze outperforming and the emergence of Frank Gore, Bell's fantasy value has diminished. Andy states, “We've had to adjust our expectations for Le'Veon Bell,” underscoring the shift in his role within the team.

AJ Dillon – Consideration

While not explicitly a buy or sell, AJ Dillon is discussed as a potential goal-line back depending on his role in the offense [15:21]. The hosts express cautious optimism about Dillon’s usage in high-scoring scenarios.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire – Buy

Clyde Edwards-Helaire is another player discussed for acquisition [26:10]. Mike Wright considers him a top option due to his involvement in the Texans' offense and potential for significant touches, especially given the uncertainties surrounding other key players.

Levy ON Bell – Sell

Levy ON Bell is advised to be sold due to concerns about his ability to reach 10 fantasy points without a touchdown [07:19]. Andy Holloway questions, “Can Le'Veon Bell hit 10 points this week without a touchdown?” reflecting skepticism about his performance in Week 1.

3. News and Notes

The hosts provide updates on key player contracts and team changes that could impact fantasy values [11:01].

DeAndre Hopkins’ Contract Extension

The Arizona Cardinals have signed DeAndre Hopkins to a five-year, $54.5 million contract extension [11:05]. Jason Moore [11:19] clarifies, “He’s under contract for the next five seasons,” ensuring his availability and importance to the Cardinals' offense.

Kareem Hunt’s Extension

The Cleveland Browns extended Kareem Hunt’s contract by two years for $13.25 million [11:14]. Andy Holloway [12:05] defends Nick Chubb’s role despite Hunt’s resurgence, emphasizing the balanced backfield and optimistic outlook for Chubb’s future performance.

Nick Chubb’s Performance Analysis

A thorough discussion on Nick Chubb’s previous season and his projected performance [11:58]. Andy Holloway defends Chubb’s consistency and potential, while Mike Wright [13:00] praises Chubb as “one of the best players in football at the position.” Jason Moore [13:25] highlights that Chubb’s lower touchdown count was an outlier and expects an improved offensive line to bolster his stats.

4. Thursday Night Football (TNF) Preview

The episode includes a detailed preview of the Thursday Night Football matchup between the Houston Texans and the Kansas City Chiefs [21:24].

Chiefs vs. Texans Analysis

Mike Wright analyzes the Chiefs as nine-point favorites with a 54-point over/under [21:38]. He discusses key quarterback matchups between Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson, noting minimal question marks on the Chiefs’ side due to their offensive continuity.

Andy Holloway [23:01] expresses confidence in starting Deshaun Watson, emphasizing his reliability. The discussion covers Texans' offensive uncertainties, including injuries to Brandon Cooks and the integration of DeAndre Hopkins, who could influence receiver targets significantly [21:36].

Key Player Predictions

• David Johnson as a Reliable Start Andy Holloway recommends starting David Johnson due to his involvement in the passing game and potential for five-plus receptions [24:31]. Mike Wright and Jason Moore support this choice, highlighting Johnson's consistent performance.

• Sammy Watkins as the Primary WR Option The hosts settle on Sammy Watkins as the preferred wide receiver for the Chiefs, over options like Randall Cobb and DeMarcus Robinson [28:09]. Andy highlights Watkins’ capability to produce significant fantasy points despite potential competition from other receivers.

5. Mailbag: Listener Questions

The hosts address questions from their audience, providing personalized advice for fantasy managers [32:37].

Flex Position Decisions

Andrew from Wisconsin asks whether to start Chris Thompson or D’Jacks in a flex position [32:59]. Mike Wright advises starting D’Jacks due to his favorable matchup against Washington's defense [33:12].

Host Influence on Player Decisions

Kyle from Minneapolis inquires if the co-hosts have ever influenced each other’s player decisions [34:08]. Mike responds that while occasional data-driven changes occur, personal analysis remains paramount.

Starting Leonard Fournette vs. Jerry Judy

Malcolm from California seeks advice on starting Leonard Fournette or Jerry Judy in a flex position [40:47]. Jason Moore leans towards Fournette for his touchdown potential against a strong Saints run defense, whereas Andy Holloway prefers Judy for his involvement in the passing game. The hosts present a balanced view, acknowledging the strengths and uncertainties of both players [41:04].

Calvin Ridley’s Confidence Level

A listener asks about comfort levels in starting Calvin Ridley as a wide receiver [44:27]. Andy rates his confidence at 35 out of 55, believing Ridley will have a breakout season, while Jason prefers more proven options like Robert Woods, placing himself just below the 50% confidence mark [44:43].

6. Community and Support

The hosts encourage listeners to join their Foot Clan community for premium content, including advanced projections, flex rankings, and exclusive features [44:56]. They highlight the benefits of membership, such as access to their book “55 Tips and Tricks to Help You Win Your Fantasy League” and participation in weekly events like the Megalobol Drafts.

7. Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, the Fantasy Footballers reiterate their excitement for Week 1 and the ongoing fantasy season. They invite listeners to stay engaged through their website and social media channels, ensuring everyone is prepared with the latest insights and strategies [47:39].

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Andy Holloway on Darren Waller [05:11]:
  “He fell into this Bermuda Triangle in The draft spot for tight ends.”

• Mike Wright on Nick Chubb [13:00]:
  “Chubb is a better pass catcher than Derek Henry.”

• Jason Moore on DeAndre Hopkins [11:24]:
  “He’s under contract for the next five seasons.”

• Andy Holloway on David Johnson [24:35]:
  “I think David Johnson can come down with five plus receptions this matchup.”

• Jason Moore on Calvin Ridley [45:14]:
  “I would much rather believe in Robert Woods, who has been a one before and is still clear, I believe the first target in the Rams offense.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast delivers comprehensive insights into Week 1 fantasy football strategies, player evaluations, and a thorough analysis of the Thursday Night Football matchup between the Chiefs and Texans. The hosts provide actionable advice, backed by detailed discussions and listener interactions, ensuring that fantasy managers are well-equipped to make informed decisions as the NFL season kicks off.