Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary
Episode: Week 1 Studs & Stinkers + Russ Cooks, Mike Cries
Release Date: September 14, 2020
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Introduction
The Fantasy Footballers kick off Week 1 by discussing the initial performances, key injuries, and setting the stage for the fantasy season. The hosts emphasize the importance of not overreacting to Week 1 outcomes while highlighting standout players and those who underperformed.
Weekly Highlights: Stud Players
Russell Wilson - Seattle Seahawks
Performance:
Russell Wilson delivered one of his best performances, throwing for 322 yards and 4 touchdowns with no interceptions, dominating the Atlanta Falcons.
Quote:
Andy Holloway remarked at [21:36], “I think this is the best game that Russell Wilson has ever played as a professional quarterback.”
Impact:
Wilson's high completion rate (88.6%) and efficiency make him a top fantasy quarterback, especially against weaker defenses.
Aaron Rodgers - Green Bay Packers
Performance:
Rodgers had a stellar game against the Minnesota Vikings, completing 32 of 44 passes for 364 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Quote:
Andy Holloway stated at [21:16], “Aaron Rodgers absolutely dominated against Minnesota.”
Impact:
Rodgers’ performance solidifies his status as one of the best fantasy quarterbacks, especially in favorable matchups.
Josh Allen - Buffalo Bills
Performance:
Josh Allen threw for 312 yards with 2 touchdowns and managed the game efficiently despite 46 passing attempts.
Quote:
Jason Moore commented at [23:41], “I loved watching the Bills play football.”
Impact:
Allen’s dual-threat capabilities make him a consistent top-five fantasy quarterback, though his tendency to throw frequently can be a double-edged sword.
Mitch Trubisky - Chicago Bears
Performance:
Trubisky threw for 160 yards and 2 touchdowns with no interceptions, outperforming expectations in a challenging game.
Quote:
Andy Holloway praised at [25:28], “Mitch Trubisky is having a huge fantasy day.”
Impact:
Trubisky’s unexpected performance opens discussions about his potential as a fantasy starter despite previous uncertainties.
Kyler Murray - Arizona Cardinals
Performance:
Kyler Murray rushed for 91 yards on two carries, alongside his passing statistics.
Quote:
Andy Holloway expressed frustration at [27:32], “Kneel down yards should not count against a quarterback.”
Impact:
Murray’s rushing ability boosts his fantasy value, though the controversy over how rushing yards are recorded remains a topic.
Weekly Lowlights: Stinkers
Marlon Mack - Indianapolis Colts
Injury:
Marlon Mack suffered a torn Achilles in Week 1, ending his season.
Quote:
Mike Wright confirmed at [06:57], “Marlon Mack is done for the year and he has a really long road to recovery.”
Impact:
Fantasy managers drafted Mack need to seek replacements, with Jonathan Taylor stepping up as a primary option.
Le'Veon Bell - Cleveland Browns
Injury:
Bell exited the game with a hamstring injury after playing ineffectively.
Quote:
Andy Holloway noted at [09:55], “Le'Veon Bell right now you just got to put him on your bench and wait.”
Impact:
Fantasy managers are forced to bench Bell and look for alternatives like Josh Adams or Frank Gore.
George Kittle - San Francisco 49ers
Performance & Injury:
Kittle struggled with limited production and suffered a leg injury before halftime.
Quote:
Andy Holloway highlighted at [11:39], “George Kittle had a very bad game.”
Impact:
Kittle’s injury raises concerns for fantasy tight end managers seeking reliable options.
Michael Thomas - New Orleans Saints
Performance:
Thomas had a disappointing game with only 2 receptions for 17 yards.
Quote:
Jason Moore remarked at [12:22], “I am so happy for the Bengals. Bengals Michael Thomas right now to be able to say he was at least tied for the best Michael Thomas this week.”
Impact:
Thomas’ underperformance signals potential sell-high opportunities for fantasy managers.
Blake Jarwin - Dallas Cowboys
Injury:
Jarwin suffered a significant knee injury, sidelining him for the season.
Quote:
Mike Wright expressed disappointment at [13:16], “Blake Jarwin, one of my guys for the season... he went down in the second quarter, non-contact.”
Impact:
Jarwin’s injury compels managers to pivot to other tight end options, impacting Dallas-focused fantasy teams.
Other Notable Stinkers
- Julio Jones (Atlanta Falcons): Despite high yards (157), he scored no touchdowns.
- Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys): Threw 1 touchdown with questionable decision-making on the field.
- Jared Goff (Detroit Lions): No passing touchdowns, only 275 yards.
- Cam Newton (New England Patriots): Threw 2 touchdowns but showcased limited effectiveness.
Quote:
Mike Wright critiqued at [48:26], “The offensive PI.”
Impact:
Multiple wide receivers and quarterbacks underperformed, presenting opportunities for waiver pickups and trades.
Injuries and Waiver Wire Recommendations
Jonathan Taylor - Indianapolis Colts
Opportunity:
With Marlon Mack’s injury, Taylor has emerged as a significant fantasy asset, especially with increased usage.
Quote:
Jason Moore advised at [07:05], “...he should be a running back one. He should be a top 12 guy.”
Recommendation:
Fantasy managers should monitor Taylor’s performance and consider trading for him if available.
Naim Hines - Cleveland Browns
Performance:
Hines had 7 carries for 28 rushing yards and 8 receptions for 45 yards.
Quote:
Jason Moore noted at [35:03], “He was a game plan for Philip Rivers to check down to his running back.”
Recommendation:
Consider adding Hines as a secondary option for additional receiving and rushing opportunities.
Josh Adams - New Orleans Saints
Performance:
Increased involvement after Le'Veon Bell’s injury with Frank Gore also contributing.
Quote:
Andy Holloway pointed out at [10:38], “Josh Adams is involved too.”
Recommendation:
Stay updated on Adams’ usage and performance trends to determine his value as a starter or flex.
Chris Carson - Seattle Seahawks
Performance:
Had 12 total touches with 2 touchdowns but limited involvement.
Quote:
Mike Wright expressed concern at [36:49], “You certainly need to be concerned.”
Recommendation:
Consider trading Carson for higher-performing running backs like Jonathan Taylor or holding for potential upside.
Malcolm Brown - Jacksonville Jaguars
Performance:
Excelled with 18 carries for 79 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Quote:
Andy Holloway enthused at [39:12], “Malcolm Brown was definitively the better running back.”
Recommendation:
Strong waiver pickup option with high touchdown upside.
Quarterback Analysis
Russell Wilson - Seattle Seahawks
Performance:
Dominant Week 1 against the Falcons with 322 yards, 4 TDs, and 0 INTs.
Quote:
Jason Moore stated at [21:05], “Hit him right in the belly. That was one of his four misses.”
Prospects:
Consistent high performance elevates his fantasy value, especially in Week 2 against Detroit.
Aaron Rodgers - Green Bay Packers
Performance:
Outstanding game with 364 yards and 4 TDs against the Vikings.
Quote:
Andy Holloway at [21:42], “Aaron Rodgers absolutely dominated.”
Prospects:
Rodgers remains a top-tier fantasy quarterback with reliable production.
Josh Allen - Buffalo Bills
Performance:
Efficient passing with 312 yards, 2 TDs but 46 attempts.
Quote:
Jason Moore highlighted at [24:15], “Josh Allen could do no wrong other than fumbling the fumbles.”
Prospects:
High rushing upside makes Allen a consistent top fantasy QB, though turnovers are a concern.
Mitch Trubisky - Chicago Bears
Performance:
Surprising efficiency with 160 yards, 2 TDs, and 0 INTs.
Quote:
Andy Holloway at [26:06], “Mitch Trubisky is having a huge fantasy day.”
Prospects:
Potential breakout candidate; fantasy managers may consider him a valuable starter.
Kyler Murray - Arizona Cardinals
Performance:
Strong rushing performance with 91 yards on two carries.
Quote:
Mike Wright at [28:02], “But Kyler had a monster day again against San Francisco.”
Prospects:
Rushing ability significantly boosts his fantasy value, though passing consistency is key.
Cam Newton - New England Patriots
Performance:
Dual-threat with 15 passing attempts, 75 yards, 2 TDs, and 15 rushing attempts.
Quote:
Andy Holloway at [29:22], “Cam Newton is Cam Newton.”
Prospects:
Provides high rushing upside, making him an appealing late-round quarterback option.
Running Back Analysis
Jonathan Taylor - Indianapolis Colts
Performance:
Emerging as a key player after Marlon Mack’s injury with 6 receptions and impactful rushing attempts.
Quote:
Andy Holloway emphasized at [08:40], “Jonathan Taylor should be a top 12, top 15 back.”
Prospects:
High potential as a primary running back; monitor usage and performance closely.
Josh Jacobs - Las Vegas Raiders
Performance:
Had 25 carries for 93 yards, 3 TDs, and 4 receptions for 46 yards.
Quote:
Jason Moore praised at [32:06], “six targets for Jacobs looking pretty good.”
Prospects:
Strong Week 1 performance indicates potential as a reliable fantasy starter.
Raheem Mostert - San Francisco 49ers
Performance:
Achieved 76 yards with 5 receptions and 1 TD in a dominant game.
Quote:
Andy Holloway noted at [32:29], “Mostert was the same guy he was last year.”
Prospects:
Explosive play potential makes him a valuable Flex option, though consistency may vary.
Chris Carson - Seattle Seahawks
Performance:
Despite 12 touches and 2 TDs, Carson’s limited involvement raises concerns.
Quote:
Mike Wright expressed concern at [36:51], “You need to be concerned.”
Prospects:
Consider trading Carson for more reliable running backs due to inconsistent usage.
Malcolm Brown - Jacksonville Jaguars
Performance:
Led his team with 18 carries for 79 yards and 2 TDs.
Quote:
Andy Holloway lauded at [39:12], “Malcolm Brown was definitively the better running back.”
Prospects:
High touchdown upside makes Brown a top waiver pickup.
Wide Receiver Analysis
DeAndre Hopkins - Arizona Cardinals
Performance:
Received 44% of his team's targets, contributing significantly despite the team's struggles.
Quote:
Mike Wright addressed at [42:11], “They didn’t want to give him 40% of his routes.”
Prospects:
High target share enhances Hopkins' fantasy value; monitor team dynamics for sustained performance.
Calvin Ridley - Atlanta Falcons
Performance:
Had two touchdowns from 12 targets and 9 receptions.
Quote:
Mike Wright highlighted at [40:56], “Julio Jones with 157 yards and no touchdowns.”
Prospects:
Consistent high-target receiver with touchdown potential makes him a valuable fantasy asset.
Mark Andrews - Baltimore Ravens
Performance:
Solid production with multiple targets and receptions.
Quote:
Andy Holloway at [43:19], “Mark Andrews is great.”
Prospects:
Reliable tight end capable of significant fantasy contributions.
Julio Jones - Atlanta Falcons
Performance:
Impressive yardage (157 yards) but no touchdowns.
Quote:
Jason Moore mentioned at [40:26], “Julio Jones in a loss.”
Prospects:
High yardage potential remains valuable, though red-zone efficiency is a concern.
CD Lamb - Dallas Cowboys
Performance:
Had 5 receptions for 39 yards, showing promise despite a team loss.
Quote:
Andy Holloway noted at [61:32], “CD Lamb should really be on the radar.”
Prospects:
Emerging talent with upside; consider as a waiver pickup or depth addition.
Others:
- Russell Gage, Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley all had significant receptions and yardage but their overall team performances varied, impacting their fantasy reliability.
Tight End Analysis
Dallas Goedert - Philadelphia Eagles
Performance:
Recorded 8 receptions with 9 targets.
Quote:
Andy Holloway reflected at [63:12], “Gerald Everett back injury in week one.”
Prospects:
Solid performance despite team injuries; consider as a reliable fantasy tight end.
Tyler Higbee - Los Angeles Rams
Performance:
Limited involvement with only 3 receptions for 18 yards.
Quote:
Mike Wright remarked at [63:14], “He did not do much.”
Prospects:
Consider waiting as future opportunities may arise with team dynamics.
Erik Ertz - Arizona Cardinals
Performance:
Had an underwhelming game with 3 receptions for 18 yards.
Quote:
Mike Wright commented at [45:06], “Ertz had a disappointing game.”
Prospects:
Monitor performance trends before committing as a starting tight end.
Other Notable Tight Ends:
- Mark Andrews, Tyler Higbee, Austin Hooper showed mixed performances, with Andrews remaining a standout while others require caution.
Other Notable Discussions
One-Liners from Listeners
The hosts shared humorous and clever one-liners submitted by listeners for a lighthearted segment.
Examples:
- “Josh Jacobs” – Boss Jacobs
- “DeAndre whiff” – Highlighting a critical missed play by DeAndre Swift.
Injury Impacts
Multiple key injuries were discussed, emphasizing the domino effect on fantasy rosters. Hosts advised managers to stay vigilant on the waiver wire and be proactive in making changes to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Opening Week Reflections
The hosts noted that Week 1 often mirrors previous seasons with teams performing as expected, but highlighted standout performances and unexpected outcomes that set the tone for the fantasy season.
Conclusions
The Fantasy Footballers emphasize the importance of patience and strategic adjustments following Week 1. Key takeaways include:
- Monitor Injuries: Stay updated on player statuses, especially those like Marlon Mack and Blake Jarwin whose injuries create significant fantasy shifts.
- Capitalize on Opportunities: Utilize the waiver wire to add emerging players such as Jonathan Taylor and Malcolm Brown.
- Evaluate Quarterback Performances: Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers have set high standards, while Mitch Trubisky offers unexpected value.
- Assess Wide Receiver Targets: DeAndre Hopkins remains a top target despite team struggles, while younger receivers like CD Lamb show promising signs.
- Tight End Caution: While Mark Andrews is reliable, other tight ends may need closer scrutiny.
“I think you're exactly...you're not overreacting to a stat line. You're reacting to an injury.” – Jason Moore [07:50]
“Christian Kirk was not getting open. Larry Fitzgerald, we’re playing the magic again.” – Mike Wright [42:22]
The hosts conclude by preparing listeners for ongoing analysis, emphasizing that fantasy success hinges on adaptability and informed decision-making throughout the season.
Notable Quotes Overview
-
Deep Breaths and Week 1 Reactions:
- “We need to practice what we preach today. Gentlemen, deep breaths.” – Andy Holloway [00:41]
-
Injury Announcements:
- “Marlon Mack is done for the year.” – Jason Moore [06:57]
- “Blake Jarwin...he went down in the second quarter, non-contact.” – Mike Wright [13:16]
-
Performance Highlights:
- “This is the best game that Russell Wilson has ever played.” – Andy Holloway [21:36]
- “Mitch Trubisky is having a huge fantasy day.” – Andy Holloway [25:28]
-
Stinkers and Concerns:
- “You certainly need to be concerned.” – Mike Wright [36:49]
- “I was disappointed with everybody not named as equal.” – Andy Holloway [61:50]
-
Strategic Advice:
- “Let’s not overreact to week one.” – Andy Holloway [00:44]
Final Thoughts
The Fantasy Footballers provide an engaging and informative overview of Week 1, blending humor with expert analysis. Their balanced approach encourages fantasy managers to make calculated decisions, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the fantasy football landscape.