Week 15 Studs & Duds + Jason's Demise - Fantasy Football Podcast for 12/16

Summary

Episode Summary: Fantasy Footballers - Week 15 Studs & Duds + Jason's Demise

Release Date: December 16, 2024

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Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright delve deep into Week 15's Fantasy Football performances, dissecting standout players and underperformers. The trio also navigates the complexities of player incentives, injury impacts, and strategic decisions as the fantasy playoffs loom. Amidst lively banter and insightful analysis, listeners are equipped with the knowledge to optimize their Fantasy Football lineups heading into the crucial final weeks.

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Team Updates and Injury Reports

The episode kicks off with Mike Wright sharing a personal update about his son falling ill, causing him to miss the show. The hosts empathize and swiftly transition to discussing the broader impact of player injuries on Fantasy Football strategies.

• Jason Moore (03:08): "Turns out I'm not okay or I'm totally fine."

• Discussion on Player Injuries:

  • Patrick Mahomes: Sidelined with a high ankle sprain; his return remains uncertain as he undergoes additional imaging (25:25).
  • Alvin Kamara: Leaves the Saints game early with a groin injury, raising concerns for Monday Night Football matchups (27:44).
  • Zach Ertz: Exits a game due to a concussion, impacting tight end options (31:05).
  • Carson Wentz and Jalen Waddle: Potential returns and injury updates discussed, affecting quarterback and wide receiver positions respectively (25:42; 30:25).

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Team Motivations and Player Incentives

A significant portion of the discussion centers on how player incentives tied to contractual bonuses can influence team strategies and, consequently, Fantasy Football outcomes.

• Mike Wright (14:40): "Over the next two weeks, we're going to look more about team incentives, motivations that really matter for Fantasy Football coming into the playoffs..."

• Key Insights:

  • Quarterbacks:

    • Jameis Winston: $100,000 bonus for each game won as a starter.
    • Josh Allen: Up for a $1.5 million bonus if he secures the NFL MVP title (16:55).

  • Running Backs:

    • Justice Hill: $250,000 bonuses for reaching 50 receptions and 1,125 total yards (17:21).
    • Joe Mixon: Needs 1,100 rushing yards for a significant bonus (18:48).
    • Tony Pollard: Motivated by bonuses for 1,100 rushing yards and additional touchdowns (18:32).

  • Wide Receivers:

    • Juwan Jennings: Close to hitting a $3.5 million bonus with one more reception needed (20:22).
    • Mike Evans: Targeted for a potential $3 million bonus, making him a high-value asset in the final weeks (20:53).

  • Tight Ends:

    • Hunter Henry: Requires three more receptions for a $250,000 payout (21:12).
    • Zach Ertz: On the cusp of his first bonus with 60 receptions and 700 yards (22:06).

The hosts emphasize the importance of monitoring these incentives as they can lead to coaches favoring certain players in critical game moments, thereby affecting their Fantasy Football value.

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Studs and Duds: Key Performers and Underperformers

Monday Punday segment highlights standout performers (Studs) and disappointing players (Duds) from Week 15.

• Studs:

  • Josh Allen: Continues his stellar performance, surpassing Lamar Jackson with multiple touchdowns (32:45).
  • Devonte Adams & Mike Evans: Dominating wide receiver spots, offering high consistency and explosive potential (43:40).
  • Jameer Gibbs: Emerging as a reliable RB2 with consistent yardage and touchdown opportunities (38:35).

• Duds:

  • Brock Purdy & Kyler Murray: Both quarterbacks turned the ball over multiple times, disappointing fantasy owners (51:12).
  • Amari Cooper: Struggled with target distribution and failed to score touchdowns despite receiving ample yards (60:51).
  • Calvin Ridley: Underperformed with low yardage and no touchdowns, questioning his reliability (61:11).

• Notable Quotes:

  • Jason Moore (05:11): "If you have him, you're probably not going to be prepping for a lineup next week."
  • Mike Wright (51:12): "Evan Ingram is on IR officially. So Brenton Strange is a name to know."

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In-Depth Position Analysis

Quarterbacks

• Josh Allen: Maintaining top-tier performance with a multitude of touchdowns, making him a premier QB choice for playoffs.

• Jameis Winston & Carson Wentz: Both facing uncertainties due to injuries, impacting their reliability and fantasy value.

• Malik Neighbors & Dorian Thompson-Robinson: Discussed as strategic options amidst quarterback uncertainties, but concerns remain regarding their consistency and skill sets.

Running Backs

• Josh Jacobs: Continues to shine with multiple touchdowns and consistent yardage, positioning him as a valuable playoff asset (40:29).

• James Conner: Nearing a 1,100-yard milestone, with favorable matchups against Carolina and Los Angeles enhancing his late-season value (41:10).

• Saquon Barkley & Derek Henry: Both RB1s underperforming due to offensive inefficiencies and defensive challenges, posing risks for fantasy managers (55:29).

• Emerging RBs:

  • Rico Dowdle: Improving performance with substantial yardage, offering depth to fantasy lineups (42:43).
  • Taj Spears: Showcasing explosive potential with memorable touchdowns, making him a strategic pickup (39:27).

Wide Receivers

• Devonte Adams & Mike Evans: Leading the pack with impressive yardage and touchdown totals, ensuring high reliability and ceiling (43:40).

• Brian Thomas: Highlighted as the best rookie wide receiver, poised for a strong finish to the season (45:24).

• DK Metcalf: Struggling to produce touchdowns post-injury, reducing his fantasy viability despite substantial yardage (59:46).

• Others:

  • Almon Rawls & Brian Thomas: Noted for their target consolidation and high potential for points (45:38).
  • Nico Collins & Jaden Daniels: Mixed performances with occasional explosive plays but inconsistency remains a concern (47:44; 37:04).

Tight Ends

• Devonte Adams & Mike Evans: Continues dominance (43:40).

• Zach Ertz & Hunter Henry: On the brink of achieving bonus thresholds, increasing their fantasy value in the final weeks (22:06; 21:12).

• Emerging TEs:

  • Britton Strange: Taking on a larger role following Evan Ingram's injury, offering upside for Fantasy managers (49:32).

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Fantasy Strategy: Waivers and Streamers

As the fantasy playoffs approach, the hosts offer strategic advice on managing waivers and streamers to bolster playoff lineups.

• Mike Wright (50:04): Emphasizes the importance of quick decisions on pickups to secure studs and cover for injured or underperforming players.

• Key Recommendations:

  • Taj Spears: Suggested as a top pickup due to his explosive potential and favorable matchups.
  • Rico Dowdle & Brenton Strange: Recommended for their increasing involvement and touchdown opportunities.
  • Christian Watson & Don Tavion Wicks: Potential replacements if key RBs like Alvin Kamara remain sidelined.

• Jason Moore (64:22): Advocates for flexibility in lineups, adapting to player performances and injury reports to maximize points.

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Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts reflect on the unpredictable nature of Fantasy Football, urging listeners to stay adaptable and informed. With the playoffs on the horizon, strategic adjustments based on player performances, incentives, and injury reports are crucial for securing victory.

• Jason Moore (65:26): "Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast. Join our fantasy football community on jointhefoot.com and follow us on Twitter Heff Ballers."

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the Fantasy Footballers community online and leverage the insights shared to enhance their fantasy league performance in the final stretch of the season.

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Notable Quotes:

• Mike Wright (05:04): "Why? Like, if it happens once in the NFL, that's got to be a lesson."

• Jason Moore (06:06): "But if Al had been here when Jonathan Taylor did what he did and that had been consequential, I can't imagine what Al would have done."

• Mike Wright (14:09): "Welcome to Ready to Roll, presented by Nissan."

• Jason Moore (22:06): "Zach Ertz left early due to a concussion."

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Key Takeaways:

• Monitor Player Incentives: Understanding player bonuses can provide insights into late-season team strategies that affect fantasy points.

• Injury Vigilance: Staying updated on player health is paramount, especially as injuries can drastically alter fantasy outcomes in the playoffs.

• Strategic Waiver Wire Moves: Identifying and securing emerging talents can provide the necessary edge in a tightly contested fantasy playoff.

• Flexibility in Lineups: Adapting to player performances and making informed decisions can maximize your team's potential during the critical final weeks.

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For more detailed analyses and updates, tune into The Fantasy Footballers Podcast and join their vibrant community of fantasy enthusiasts.

Transcript

[Andy Holloway]

This episode is brought to you by NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV. There's a lot to be thankful for this season. For one, I'm thankful you can get NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV right now for only $209. That's exactly what you need. As we head right into the playoffs, you can invite your friends over, maybe have a multi view. You could have four different games, one for you, one each for the three other friends you invite. Uh, you can, you can change the games around. As soon as a game the outcome becomes pretty certain, dump that game. But in another one, I've become the multi view master. The moment the one of the games is losing steam, I'm ready to move right in and move it for another one. Build your own multi view. One of my favorite words, thank yourself. This holiday season, get NFL Sunday Ticket for the rest of the NFL regular season for just $209. Sign up [e-mail] BS Terms and Embargoes apply. Device and content restrictions apply. No cancellations.

[Jason Moore]

This episode is brought to you by Instagram. Though we can't all agree on our picks, we can all agree that we want social media to be a safe place for teens. So it's good to hear about Instagram teen accounts which provide automatic safety settings for teens built with parents top concerns in mind. Things like making their teens profiles private by default, having automatic contact limits so they can only be messaged by people they are connected to, and content restrictions that place them in the most restrictive setting, limiting sensitive content they see in places like explore and reels. And all of these settings are built in so no extra work for parents. Instagram is automatically placing teens into teen accounts and teens under 16 will need a parent's permission to change any of these settings to be less strict. Basically, Instagram teen accounts will limit who can contact teens and the content they see and help ensure teens time on the app is well spent. And that's something everyone can agree on.

[Mike Wright]

The Fantasy Footballer Studio is brought to you by Amazon Prime. Welcome to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast with your hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore and Mike Wright.

[Jason Moore]

Oh, welcome in the Fantasy footballers podcast. Monday, December 16th. Jason Moore, Andy Holloway with you today. No, Mike, he is out sick. He was with us yesterday.

[Mike Wright]

He was I think maybe a too much smoked brisket problem.

[Jason Moore]

I don't know. He said he started crashing last night and then we got the infamous 3:42am Slack message.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

That said consider me doubtful for tomorrow, which, you know, 3:42am you're not going to see him. That's a full out.

[Mike Wright]

No, we're not going to get an update of like, yeah, fellas, I'm a.

[Jason Moore]

Lot better since 3:42.

[Mike Wright]

Turns out I'm not okay or I'm totally fine. I was worried. So I had my son hung out with a friend all day yesterday. And then as my wife and I were going to bed, we get a text from that son's mom of like, my kid went to bed just fine. Just woke up throwing up like crazy.

[Jason Moore]

Oh.

[Mike Wright]

And I was like, oh, no. But we had no.

[Jason Moore]

So far.

[Mike Wright]

We had no such wake up throw up.

[Jason Moore]

It feels a little bit like just getting through Christmas is dodging. Cause you're at all of these events if you have kids. Kids are. I mean, these. They're a problem.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, they're a huge problem for disease.

[Jason Moore]

And, you know, I had a. I had to go to a recorder concert.

[Mike Wright]

Congratulations.

[Jason Moore]

That's a thing. I see Deuces Alley laughing because it was two hours of people playing recorders. But that's a gathering of people.

[Mike Wright]

Did they play Hot Cross Buns ever?

[Jason Moore]

No.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, come on, man.

[Jason Moore]

No. That's too easy for them.

[Mike Wright]

Go back to the classics then.

[Jason Moore]

It's like you were at plays for your kids. I was at a Grinch play with my daughter, you know, and just tons of people there, like, you gotta dodge illness. And Mike, obviously unskilled.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

And I didn't think you'd be here because I thought you might be sick today. You know what I mean?

[Mike Wright]

You're talking about. No, no, no, no. My update for the Foot Clan, my garbage team that backed into the playoffs going up against Jeremy's awesome team. While I did have some fun moments and it seemed like, you know, my Bengals defense might. Might take me over the top, it is not going to happen.

[Jason Moore]

Would you say that your team didn't quite cross the goal line?

[Mike Wright]

We did not. Ah, I see what you did there. Just like the Bengals dropping the touchdown.

[Jason Moore]

I mean, you had Jonathan Taylor and the Bengals, who both couldn't finish running over a goal line.

[Mike Wright]

They both had wide open, easy, unbelievably great touchdowns that the players dropped the ball crossing the goal line. Why? Like, if it happens once in the NFL, that's got to be a lesson.

[Jason Moore]

We all know DeSean Jackson is made to do that.

[Mike Wright]

That was the famous one. And then a couple of years ago, it happened. Who was it? It was another. It was a star. I forget who it was, but another wide receiver did it maybe earlier this year or last year. And then this week, two players we.

[Jason Moore]

Had it was a Malachi Corley for the Jets. Did it?

[Mike Wright]

Yes.

[Jason Moore]

Because it was going to be his first career touchdown. Hold on to the football until you're 100% sure you're in the painted area. But this Al Borland was there for about half the day, and you two were yelling at each other every good thing that happened, every bad thing. Very loud. It was entertaining. It was fun. I have a buy. It was all I could live for, Right?

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. Our enjoyment.

[Jason Moore]

But if Al had been here when Jonathan Taylor did what he did and that had been consequential, I can't imagine what Al would have done.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. 41 yard rushing touchdown. That was awesome. Until all of a sudden he decides to drop the ball before.

[Jason Moore]

But you got throttled regardless. Like, five more guys could have dropped the ball before the goal line.

[Mike Wright]

It's okay. The most important league. Mike and I's champ, champ, Champ league. We, ironically, we came in the morning and we decide, based on some weather and the fact that Taylor Swift obviously is not going to show up, we decide to bench Travis Kelsey. It's really good analysis for DJ Moore.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

And at the end of the game, Travis Kelsey scores four points. So we're like, whoo.

[Jason Moore]

Good call.

[Mike Wright]

Good call. Well, now my opponent, our opponent has finished. He's completely done and he's up by two points.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

So now I'm like, man, I wish.

[Jason Moore]

I played Travis Kelsey because DJ Moore.

[Mike Wright]

Is going to score more than two points. But, I mean, there's a chance he doesn't just.

[Jason Moore]

I mean, that would be legendary. For tomorrow's show, we got studs and duds today. We got Monday punday today. We got a congratulations for Al Borland as the people are following along. Al still alive. Blood pressure has. Is it calm now? Are you back to normal? I feel great. Just for now. Until next week.

[Mike Wright]

That's right.

[Jason Moore]

So there is the chance for the show's sake that if Al wins his matchup next week and I win mine, it'll be another face off here in the studio.

[Mike Wright]

Championship matchup between Owl and Andy. I hope that doesn't happen.

[Jason Moore]

Well, we've got a lot to talk about. A lot of reactions. I will tell you, reviewing the Monday, Monday reactions, there were a lot more people upset than there were people happy with disappointing performances. We'll get into them momentarily because some.

[Mike Wright]

Of the disappointing performances were not like, they let you down. They were like they destroyed you.

[Jason Moore]

They put you down.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. They stabbed you, took you out in the back with a knife. They twisted it.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

And then on your way down, they kicked you in the balls from the back.

[Jason Moore]

Oh. And that's. You know what? Not great. No, not great. One quick reminder though, before we jump into Monday punday, we got to get this out there. Because this championship season, if you go to fantasychamps.com that is where you can find championship belts, trophies, rings, all of your swag for your league. Right now, if you put in the code free ring and you buy a belt or a trophy, you will get a free championship ring, which. Yeah, we've got those displayed proudly in our office for every title we've won.

[Mike Wright]

Yep. They are $59. They are sweet. There's like six different $59 rings that you could choose. You just add the trophy and add the ring to your cart, put in the code freering, and you get the ring for free. So call your shot now.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Fantasychamps.com is where you want to go. We remind people around this time of year to pick up their swag for their league. And without further ado, we will. We'll go ahead and get into Monday Monday reactions for week number 15. Well, we'll start with the good.

[Mike Wright]

Uh huh.

[Jason Moore]

Like Jerry Juicy.

[Mike Wright]

Yes, he was. Or Malik Navidad.

[Jason Moore]

That's pretty good. Or Jared go off. Oh, James cooking next to Josh Alien.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. Those guys are unstoppable right now. OMG Saint Brown.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Big game for Amon Ra. Terry McScorin once again.

[Mike Wright]

And wham, bam, thank you, lamb.

[Jason Moore]

Okay. The bad like toilet tongue of aloha.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. To turn the ball over.

[Jason Moore]

Oh, Jonathan Failer.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, he was Brock Turdy.

[Jason Moore]

And Bo Picks.

[Mike Wright]

Lot of picks, Bo lotta picks. Kyler murdered me.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, he did. And Jason, a little combo here. Me and you.

[Mike Wright]

Lameus Dwinston Jameis benched, son.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

Cooper suck Gooser Cup.

[Jason Moore]

Isaac rear Endo.

[Mike Wright]

That's good. I hadn't seen that. And Barfin Harrison Jr.

[Jason Moore]

I mean, I wonder what your objective reaction to Marvin Harrison would be because you on our. I think it was our bus episode, you called this. You said not all paths lead to greatness for Marvin Harrison in his rookie season. Most people thought that he was on his way to a dominant year, that there was just no way that that couldn't happen with the way the targets broke down in the offense and the Cardinals. And if I'd even told you ahead of time that the Cardinals would be sitting a game out of first place, you know, with a.500 record at this stage in the season, you'd probably be even more inclined to believe that Marvin Harrison had a big.

[Mike Wright]

Well, and if you told me he's like the leader and targets for the team that's vying for the playoffs, Touchdowns, I mean that.

[Jason Moore]

But it hasn't happened.

[Mike Wright]

Some ways you can look at it though. Some ways that you can look at it, this is a very successful rookie season. I'm pretty sure he's leading all rookie wide receivers in touchdowns. Maybe that's not true after Brian Thomas Jr. I'd have to check after this week, but last week he was. He has been involved. He has shown plenty of flashes, but for fantasy football purposes, he's an out, right bust. This was a player you picked at the back of the first round and he's had lots of good performances and lots of sneakers. It's funny because in Monday Punda, he's basically there every week. He either had a really good game, right. And was awesome and helped you and it was like, oh, you know.

[Jason Moore]

Or he's starving. Harrison. Yeah, farting Harrison, 47 for X, 47 receptions, 687 yards, seven touchdowns is where he sits.

[Mike Wright]

47 receptions is terrible. 92 targets is awesome.

[Jason Moore]

But that catch rate is. I mean it continues.

[Mike Wright]

They're so out of sync every.

[Jason Moore]

I think Kyler sucks, so.

[Mike Wright]

Yes, yes, Kyler does suck. However, Kyler's reads to Marvin Harrison and I even think the throws to Marvin Harrison aren't bad.

[Jason Moore]

I don't know why you can't catch the football.

[Mike Wright]

He picks him at the right time. He finds him in every one on one matchup and he gives him a catchable ball that Marvin Harrison is just out of sync with when he turns, when he jumps, when he whatevers.

[Jason Moore]

I heard good friend of the show, Matt Harmon talk about Marvin Harrison and discuss him in the context of this is a bigger player that plays like a smaller player. Elite route running. You know, you talk about what Amon Rod does. Well, you talk about what he doesn't seem to go up and win on these routes that they're running him on. The back shoulder fades, the corner fades. I've seen none of that, almost none of that come down in his arms.

[Mike Wright]

I think it will get rectified and fixed in the future.

[Jason Moore]

With a taller quarterback or what?

[Mike Wright]

No, I think with him growing into his man body and learning the skills of like when he was in college, he toasted guys and you know, these. He didn't have to make a bunch of contested catches. He didn't have to make back shoulder throws over great defenders where, you know, he's right there with someone. He's Got a turn and Masa guy. Quite the same.

[Jason Moore]

I can't stand the play calling in Arizona. I can't stand. That's the blobfish, the offensive coordinator.

[Mike Wright]

It's really not fair. It's really not fair to have him as the blobfish thing.

[Jason Moore]

That's not a good nickname.

[Mike Wright]

It's not, but we call it. We say it every time we see him. We see him.

[Jason Moore]

Petzing.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

Blobfish.

[Jason Moore]

All right. That's a little bit of hometown frustration coming out. Let's. Let's move on.

[Mike Wright]

Welcome to Ready to Roll, presented by Nissan.

[Jason Moore]

Honestly, I'd put that in the bottom five nicknames you could be called.

[Mike Wright]

I would not want to be called blobfish. That would feel bad.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Like in grade school, if you were the blobfish.

[Mike Wright]

How.

[Jason Moore]

I mean, no hope.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. I mean, the only hope is you.

[Jason Moore]

Going to that dance with the blobfish.

[Mike Wright]

No, I'm not taking the blob fish to dance. Yeah. I hope that Petzing's family does not let him listen to this episode.

[Jason Moore]

No one listens to this show. All right, Jason, move on.

[Mike Wright]

So this week, we are going to take a look at incentives, and over the next two weeks, we're going to look more about, like, team incentives, motivations that really matters for fantasy football coming into the playoffs, the championship rounds. But right now, we get into a place where we can. We can have a couple pieces of insight to specific players and what their contract situations say, hey, I'm going to get a bonus if I get another touchdown. I'm going to get a bonus if I can get 10 more receptions. Yada, yada. And we hear this after the season, every single year. Sometimes after the games, late in the season, the players know this. All the players on the teams know this. The coaches know this. The coaches are trying to get their players these bonuses. We hear it all the time. We'll hear it again at the end of this year. Yeah. So and so needed another touchdown. We drew up the play. It did or it didn't happen, but, like, they forced the issue to try to get some of these bonuses. So it's good for us to know, hey, you know what? Coach might try to force the ball to this guy.

[Jason Moore]

Honestly, the areas. You guys might hear this out there and say, well, that's not true. And these teams have higher priorities. And you're right. Except it happens a lot late in games. So when games are kind of put to bed. You saw CD Lamb out there for the fourth quarter. Of games last year to break records for the Cowboys for particular. I mean, that's for records, not incentives. But it's late in games. I mean, even in the Arizona game, they very intentionally tried to call a play to get Trey McBride his touchdown. They knew I had guaranteed it on the show. They threw him one of those old Travis Kelsey underhand pitches and he got stood up on the 1 inch line and they didn't get it to him. But I'm telling you, that's McBride and his touchdown. Those are coming, those are going to come into play at the end of games. And the same will go with some of these incentives, especially for important players.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. So let's break it down by positions, quarterbacks. There's not a lot here. Jameis Winston, every game that he is the starter of and wins, he's going to get $100,000. So you know, that's, that's great. He's motivated. And Josh Allen, if he wins the NFL mvp, will get one and a half million dollars as a bonus. So congratulations, Josh Allen.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, I think he's got that.

[Mike Wright]

You're getting one and a half million also. You soups deserve it, Josh. Josh Allen has been unfreaking, stoppable and it's, he does whatever he wants.

[Jason Moore]

He does, he does seem like he's playing with, you know, a lower division sometimes, you know what I mean? Where he is, he's out there and he's physically a force every single play.

[Mike Wright]

So at the running back position, you got Saquon and Derek Henry. Both of them have big rushing totals, 2000 plus total rushing and receiving yards for Saquon and 1500 rushing yards for Derek Henry. They're going to get a lot of money combined over a million dollars. But they're like right there. I think Derek Henry needs about 25 more rushing yards and Saquon needs like 40 more rushing receiving yards. So that's, that's a done deal. I don't think there's any motivation there. Derek Henry's teammate, however, this one is interesting to me. Justice Hill needs 50 receptions to get a quarter of a million dollars. And Justice Hill, a lot of times it's these level of players that are. The coaches really care about getting them. They're $250,000. You know, Saquon has his kajillions of dollars, but Justice Hill, he's at 42 receptions right now, needs to get to 50. He's got three games left to get there to get a quarter of a million dollars also, if he gets another 125 rushing yards, he gets another quarter of a million dollars. So Justice Hill I could see. And the Harbaughs, they know this stuff. I think down the stretch you could call it a double whammy. Keep.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, if games are out of, out of hand.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, you could see Justice Hill. So if you're in a flex situation, that could be interesting. Joe Mixon needs a solid rushing the next couple of weeks to get another quarter of a million dollars. And then another one that I think.

[Jason Moore]

Is, by the way, the Joe Mixon one. I'm a little scared about how that division is broken down. I know we're going to talk about team motivations, but like Joe Mixon needs 1100 yards. He's at 910. But I don't know if they can change their seating that much. Kyle, are you listening in here? They've locked the division up. That would be one that we should look into pretty closely.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, we'll look at that. And the team motivations here coming up. Their schedule is also pretty tough. Kansas City, Baltimore, the next two weeks. So here's one I think for Fantasy, this is probably one of the sweetest sweet spots. Tony Pollard, if you've got Tony Pollard out there, this is a player that I think is motivated and has some reachable goals. He needs 1100 rushing yards and he's got 982. So he has to get a couple hundred rushing yards in the next three games to hit a quarter of a million dollars. And even more important for Fantasy, he's two touchdowns away from his contractual bonus. So basically he needs a couple hundred yards and two touchdowns. If you get one touchdown, you know, if he comes out and has a rushing touchdown this week, I promise you he's getting a rushing touchdown in the final two weeks.

[Jason Moore]

He's going to be a tough one too because he left hurt again. So he's dealing with the ankle injury, but is very. He's one of the big names that have those incentives. At wide receiver. Juwan Jennings right on the cusp of a big threshold.

[Mike Wright]

Joann Jennings has been making money.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, he's got a lot of incentives.

[Mike Wright]

He's already cashed 50% of snaps. That's a one and a half million dollars. And then another basically $1.2 million for crossing 600 receiving yards and six touchdowns. He needs one more reception and he will complete his three and a half million dollar bonuses. He's, he's been awesome.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Cortland Sutton has several bonuses. He needs to hit a thousand and sixty five Receiving yards. You have Mike Evans.

[Mike Wright]

That's the big one. That's the big one he's at.

[Jason Moore]

Is this the updated numbers 52, 749 and 9?

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. So he basically needs 18 receptions and 250 yards. 250 yards and another touchdown and he will get a $3 million bonus. So this is like, that's great. You have to thank.

[Jason Moore]

Got him.

[Mike Wright]

You have to bank on Mike Evans to get eight receptions a game right now, 80 yards a game right now and be used around the end zone. He, I mean that's, that's not like, you know, a lot of these are. You're going to get a quarter million dollars, that's $3 million to hit those thresholds.

[Jason Moore]

That thousand receiving yard streak that he's had going for quite a while. 250 more yards in the remaining games. That's a big one.

[Mike Wright]

You know he's going to get that. They will, they will throw a game to get him the thousand yards. So Mike Evans down the stretch, I think obviously if you had him this week, you had a good run and you probably won your fantasy playoffs. I think it'll happen the next two weeks as well.

[Jason Moore]

Hunter Henry needs three more receptions for a 250k payout. Johnny Smith needs to stay above the snap count the 55% of snaps to get 400,000. He's at 59%.

[Mike Wright]

And the last interesting one to me is Zach Ertz. Zach Ertz gets a quarter million dollars when he gets to 60 and 670 and 700. He, he's at 54 and 526. So he's really close to his first bonus. But he left the game with a concussion and so, you know, this is a player, they probably want him in the playoffs if they get down there. But as far as like motivation to clear and get back on the field and you know, be really involved, he's really close to that threshold. So I expect to see him again and have him at least get to that first threshold.

[Jason Moore]

All right, that was ready to roll. Thanks again to our sponsor. Nissan Adventure calls in the first ever Nissan Rogue Rock Creek. Visit NissanUSA.com to learn more. Intelligent all wheel drive cannot prevent collisions or provide enhanced traction in all conditions. Always monitor traffic and weather conditions. We'll take a break, we'll hit the news.

[Mike Wright]

This episode is brought to you by Peloton. Look, life's got a game plan and it's always changing. One season you're all about them 4 week strength building classes. The next it's squeezing in a run or hitting the bike after work, whatever's on deck, Peloton's here to fit into your schedule. From strength, running and cycling and everything in between, Peloton adapts to your goals no matter the season of life. And with Peloton's All Access membership, you've got the flexibility to work out wherever you need to at home, on your bike, your tread, your row, or even on the go with an app at the gym. Whether you're gearing up for a marathon or just trying to keep your energy up for late night game replays, Peloton's got the classes to keep you in the zone. Find your push, find your power with [e-mail] this episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. There's a lot to look forward to this month, and not just because we're getting closer and closer to Super Bowl. I'm talking holiday season. Great music. My family and I, we're going to be starting the hot cocoa and driving around the neighborhoods. There's a lot of great stuff. Whatever traditions and plans you've got for the holiday season, I'm sure it's going to be a fun time. But joy and comfort aren't only reserved for December. You deserve to feel that all year long. And if you'd like some suggestions on how to do that, I'd check out therapy. I have had a therapist for years now on a weekly basis. It has improved my quality of life. I've encouraged my family to do it. I really encourage everyone to try therapy. If you want to help, get yourself something nice this year. Try therapy, especially through BetterHelp. It makes it easy to get started. All you have to do is fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with a licensed therapist. And if that's not a good fit, you can trade therapists at any time. Find comfort this December with BetterHelp. Visit betterhelp.comfootballers today and get 10% off of your first month. That's BetterHelp. H E L p.comfootballers.

[Jason Moore]

All right, we are jumping in with some important news as we get ready for the doubleheader on Monday night. And then heading into week 16 of your fantasy playoffs.

[Mike Wright]

News and notes from around the league presented by USAA Insurance.

[Jason Moore]

Okay, well, prior to kickoff, we got word that Hollywood Brown could make his debut next week.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, Carson Wentz is so happy, right?

[Jason Moore]

I mean, that's, that's. Let's get into it. Patrick Mahomes left late in the second half with a right high ankle Sprain. He's undergoing additional imaging today. Andy Reid said no fracture. X rays negative. Next week it's the Texans, then it's the Steelers.

[Mike Wright]

We have talked about the history with high ankle sprains. Oftentimes you either missed no games or you missed three games. And so I think it's a real TBD situation they're calling this week to week. Mahomes is tough. He's going to want to play through it. But they are. They're battling for the number one seed. I mean, it makes a big difference if they, you know, if they end up losing some of these games, tough games. Houston, Pittsburgh and Denver, those are winnable and losable games.

[Jason Moore]

So it could be Carson Wentz for a week or two. We'll find out a lot more this week. And that, you know, there are players that you're counting on in particular Travis Kelsey and his kind of lull right now.

[Mike Wright]

And so are you. Are you hoping it's Carson then so that they have a chance to be good for fantasy again?

[Jason Moore]

I did go through the mental exercise of what do I think of Travis Kelsey if it's Carson Wentz? And I didn't, I didn't really think that was so bad.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, I mean, it's not like Mahomes has been really airing it out or.

[Jason Moore]

Even like, I mean, I want more of the dump offs. I want more of the short area design stuff that's, you know, less challenging. And that's where Kelsey can be your best friend. I, you know, tight ends are dropping like flies right now. They're. I have a bunch of tight ends in Dynasty that I'd love to. I would have maybe been tempted to put ahead of Kelsey. Zach Hertz is gone. Right. David Najoku just missed another week. Players are going down left and right. So Mahomes is an injury we're monitoring. Geno Smith left the Sunday Night Football game with a knee injury. Did not return. They said structurally it looks okay.

[Mike Wright]

That's good news.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Hopefully, you know, athletically, we'll see if he can play on it. Tommy DeVito ruled out with a concussion. Tim Boyle was the QB2 now that Drew Lock is out. QB4 for their attempts at fixing that position.

[Mike Wright]

QB1 on the super flex waiver wire.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. And QB won in our hearts from Malik Navidad. I mean, Malik neighbors got it done. And it was because Tim Boyle knew what to do. He knew the assignment. Yes.

[Mike Wright]

He's like, where is Malik? Okay, I'm going to throw it that way.

[Jason Moore]

That's the smartest thing you can do. This one's a problem. This is my red alert of the week. Alvin Camara left early with a groin injury, didn't return to the Saints game. He's considered day to day. But the problem here, and it's a big one, it's a Monday Night Football game for the Saints next week. Now, God willing, we find out early in the week that he's doing fine, but when you don't come back into a game, I'm worried. And the Monday Night Football situation. Now you can go pick up Kendrick Miller. He's going to be a waiver wire pickup.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

But if he's already picked up in your league and you're looking at Monday Night Football, the pivot options are not going to be there. You're going to have to make a call on players on Sunday.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. So that's, that's going to be the Green Bay matchup. So really, Kendra Miller with a backup quarterback? Yeah, really. Kendra Miller is your only, you know, potential option there. You're going to need to move him to your flex at the very least so that you open up some wide receivers and you could throw in a Christian Watson or Don Tavion Wicks if you don't have Alvin Camara. But it's, it's, it's not great. And this was a game, it was.

[Jason Moore]

Already going to be a problem for Camara in this Green bay game.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

14 point underdogs.

[Mike Wright]

This is the game that he did not come back in against the Manders. They were coming back to win like they really, really needed.

[Jason Moore]

And he had a great touchdown catch.

[Mike Wright]

It was awesome. He's, he's, he's so good. I can't believe how good Alvin Camara is at 29.

[Jason Moore]

He's the running back.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, I would guess three or four, five. Okay.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, it was. He was on his way and he. In a game where he only rushed for 12 total yards, he was the. And left early. Running back 13 on the week. Nick Chubb out for the year. Broken flick.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. That is brutal. It was such a turn of events because we're watching the game and you see Nick Chubb streaking down the sideline for a huge touchdown. And we're like, yes, he's finally held. Oh, that's Jerome Ford.

[Jason Moore]

That's 34, not 24.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, why is Jerome Ford. Oh, Chubb broke his foot. So it went from being like, I'm so happy he's healthy to he's done for the year. That stinks.

[Jason Moore]

It was reported earlier this morning that The Vikings have not ruled out, by the way, offering Sam Darnold a contract for next season.

[Mike Wright]

That makes a ton of sense. I think the Vikings should. They don't know whether or not McCarthy. McCarthy is going to be great. I mean, why not have a competition? It doesn't hurt. They. They know that they can win a lot of games with Darnold.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Yeah. What else? Jalen Waddle.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, he did not waddle back into the game like he always does.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, he got hurt and it was.

[Mike Wright]

A brutal looking the way he was bent back over. Of course, all waddle injuries every game are brutal looking. And he's writhing in pain. Then he comes back on the field, but unfortunately he didn't. He'll have an MRI today and if.

[Jason Moore]

He misses time, I wonder. I wonder what the Malik Washington.

[Mike Wright]

He would be the next waiver wire story will be. He would be the next man up. I think it'll probably be John Smith as the prime beneficiary.

[Jason Moore]

Beneficiary. Really? Really, really, really wish I still had him.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, you could have. You just made a boneheaded decision.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. At least I'm still in the playoffs. Zach Ertz left early due to a concussion.

[Mike Wright]

Game's not over yet. Sam Darnold. Look, I can still. If Sam Darnold outscores Justin Jefferson and Bijan by about 55, I'm still in, baby.

[Jason Moore]

Oh, you're so. You're. Wait, you said you're still in the playoffs. Is that what that is?

[Mike Wright]

Yep.

[Jason Moore]

Cool, man. You know, it was. It was great because there were all these moments yesterday and I, you know, where. Where it was really over. But I knew I could look over at Jason and I'd see him. Just his eyes were on the screens with his players. And you know that touchdown by Cincinnati, that wasn't a touchdown. I mean, it's like he's out. He's all of us. I mean, we all stay.

[Mike Wright]

You have hope. Until it's completely snuffed out and it's not over yet.

[Jason Moore]

So you just need Darnold to not use Jefferson to the tune of 50 plus.

[Mike Wright]

He needs to have a 50 plus point game without using Justin Jefferson. And John needs to be heard first play.

[Jason Moore]

So you're scared there, Al back there, you're really terrified.

[Mike Wright]

I'm pretty confident.

[Jason Moore]

Okay. All right. That was today's news and notes presented by USAA Insurance. Learn more at USA.com insurance talks. Does.

[Mike Wright]

This week's fantasy stud muffins.

[Jason Moore]

You know, it's not every week that Lamar Jackson can go out Throw five touchdowns and score as many fantasy points as he as he did and end up third on the week. But Josh Allen and Jared Goff outperformed Lamar Jackson's five touchdown performance. Allen absolutely going crazy.

[Mike Wright]

Josh Allen two straight weeks. Not two straight weeks. This is he. Here's his run of his quarterback finishes over the last six weeks. Quarterback two, Quarterback one. Quarterback two, Quarterback one, Quarterback one and then quarterback six. What a loser.

[Jason Moore]

He's playing well. He's going to be. He's going to be an mvp.

[Mike Wright]

They have so many weapons and it's so funny because they don't have a primary weapon. You know, Keon Coleman, great target. Mac Holland's whatever. Amari Cooper.

[Jason Moore]

Shakir.

[Mike Wright]

Shakir. Dawn Kincaid, Dawson Knox. They've got like James Cook.

[Jason Moore]

Ty Johnson.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, Ty Johnson's evolved now. Yeah, it's Ray Davis.

[Jason Moore]

It's very, it's very much. He's the. What do they call the one that leads the orchestra?

[Mike Wright]

Conductor.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, that's. Is that what it is? That's a not. Didn't sound that impressive of a name. The conductor. He is the conductor of the orchestra and it doesn't matter what, you know, instrument he wants to play on any given.

[Mike Wright]

He did go in for X rays after the game, but from some kind of funky fall. He said they appear to be fine though.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, he said he wanted peace of mind. Jared Goff in a comeback effort in the same game just behind Josh Allen, he had 500 yards and five touchdowns.

[Mike Wright]

That'll make for a good game.

[Jason Moore]

So he's going to end up a top five, six, seven quarterback on the year.

[Mike Wright]

And yet he had a bad season for fantasy.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, fantasy wise. His consistency rating on our side is that is 35% of the time over 20 points and the ones that were over, they were way over. He had big games and can always do that. Lamar Jackson in three quarters was it maybe less than that? Pretty much 290 and 5, 6 for 65 on the ground. And I was thinking about this this morning. I don't know why I was thinking about it. It was just like a random thought that popped into my head. But the Steelers is the matchup next week and TJ Watt with the injury, that could be a significant change to the Steelers defense against lamar Jackson.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. T.J. watt did not return to the game. It was late in the game and they were already getting blown out. So I think he just knew he was done for the game. It was a low ankle sprain. They'll have to wait and see how it responds. And swells. Whether he plays against Lamar this week.

[Jason Moore]

I think the word I was looking for. Brooks. Thank you. It was maestro. Maestro is much more. It's a much more impressive title for the head of an orchestra than a conductor.

[Mike Wright]

Is that an actual title or is.

[Jason Moore]

That just like what makes conductors are called maestros?

[Mike Wright]

Oh, okay.

[Jason Moore]

You never heard that?

[Mike Wright]

No, I have. I have. But I'm just wondering why there's two words.

[Jason Moore]

A distinguished conductor of classical music is a maestro.

[Mike Wright]

So, like, everyone's a conductor and then it's like, no, they're distinguished. That dude's a maestro.

[Jason Moore]

Because the other one, you could be. You could be like, at the front of a train as well. Right? Because you got it.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. They conduct trains.

[Jason Moore]

Jalen Hertz, 25 for 32, 290 and 2, 1 rushing. Touchdown. And they haven't lost in a really long time.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, they're playing some good football. You had A.J. brown, squeaky wheel, get his touchdown, although he did get hurt in this game. We'll have to wait and see how that goes. Baker Mayfield seemed like he got back on track and looked great, even though he threw a bad pick, turned the ball over a couple times. He threw four touchdowns. And McMillan McMillions over there, he getting it done. He took all your slander and then your motivation and your belief in him, and he says, I'm going to be a touchdown machine now.

[Jason Moore]

Time yet. I told you, when he. When I made the guarantee, it was. It was time then. There's a time for everything, Jason.

[Mike Wright]

I can't believe how low on the weekly scoring Jaden Daniels was this week for how good he played. I guess he was a little disappointing in the second half of the week of the game, but he's like, unstoppable. I mean, you're watching these games and the pass rush, it's very Lamar Jackson, the pass rush is coming after him and no one can actually get him down because he's just faster than you and amazing.

[Jason Moore]

He's a maestro back there.

[Mike Wright]

And then not everyone can be a maestro.

[Jason Moore]

Okay. He's just a ordinary conductor.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. But, yeah, I mean, I played against him this week from Owls super team, and it wasn't fun.

[Jason Moore]

You know, it's going to be tough because I don't think anybody is going to bench him this upcoming week at.

[Mike Wright]

All against the Eagles.

[Jason Moore]

But you're playing Philly where He was the quarterback, 24 in Week 11. Philly's defense is outstanding. You're going to have Jaden Daniels. McLaurin stacks that you got to worry about.

[Mike Wright]

And no Zach Hertz as a safety valve.

[Jason Moore]

No. You just need to hope that that game becomes a more, you know, high scoring affair in the division somehow. But I'm not sure it will. I think that could be tough. You talked about Baker and we'll move on to running backs. James Connor, the running back one on the weekend. Jameer Gibbs, the RB2, James Cook, the RB3. Those of you that stuck with James Cook, you know, it was tough after last week. You got scared, you got started shaken with fear. But if you stuck with him, you were rewarded.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, I mean, pretty much. If you stuck with any bill not named Amari Cooper, you were. You were pretty happy. The Mari.

[Jason Moore]

Cooper killed people.

[Mike Wright]

He did.

[Jason Moore]

He killed people.

[Mike Wright]

He went from 14 targets to nothing.

[Jason Moore]

His snap counts weren't that off of last week either. No, I mean, they just said, no, thanks.

[Mike Wright]

You want pieces of the Bills? You want to take a shot? You know, I threw Keon Coleman into my lineup and he had a bomb that unfortunately was not a touchdown.

[Jason Moore]

What a throw.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, it's unbelievable. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I mean, Jameer Gibbs had an awesome game, and this was the first time this season it came at the expense of David Montgomery. You saw the Lions really start to get boat raced by the Bills to the. To the tune where you're talking an early fourth quarter onside kick.

[Jason Moore]

That's really dumb.

[Mike Wright]

Whatever. You could debate that. But my point is the Lions were in a real we've got to catch up mode. We've got to throw the ball. There's a reason Jared Goff threw for 500 yards, and that came at the expense of David Montgomery, because Gibbs is clearly the better asset for that style of football.

[Jason Moore]

And you didn't like Montgomery's five attempts for four yards?

[Mike Wright]

I didn't. I didn't love it. Yeah. Someone playing him?

[Jason Moore]

No. But he never dropped the ball right before crossing the goal line.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, man.

[Jason Moore]

So that is one. In his corner, Chase Brown yet again delivering a big game, Taj Spears after Pollard left Spears well early in the game, too. He got a goal line opportunity and Statue of Liberty himself up into the stratosphere, that touchdown.

[Mike Wright]

If you haven't seen the Taj Spears touchdown, just Google because that's so funny. He does the thing where he jumps up and reaches the ball across the goal line and scores the touchdown immediately as soon as it crosses the plane. And then for some reason, the Bengals decide to help him celebrate by lifting him up and carrying him for five years deeper to the End zone as he just holds the ball up like a trophy.

[Jason Moore]

Josh Jacobs was awesome yet again. 26 for 94 rushing, touchdown. He was kind of the whole offense in the first half. 4 targets, 4 for 42. He has been on fire. 5 straight top 10 finishes and he kind of feels better than like, you go into this week and like Derek Henry is kind of in a lull right now in the offense and they got Pittsburgh and how do you. I mean, you got to feel really good if you have Jacobs.

[Mike Wright]

Jacobs feels like a top five back, especially for this week against the Saints. You're going to be heavy favorites. Their run defense isn't great. So, yeah, Jacobs looks awesome. Championship week is where you get a little scared against the Minnesota Vikings and their great rush defense. But, I mean, you're not going away from Jacobs. He's been top five back in what, like 10 straight finishes, something like that.

[Jason Moore]

I don't want to leave it. I don't want to go bypass James Connor in conversation there because he was 16 for 110. He had two rushing touchdowns, he caught five passes. And this is. I mean, he is so close to finishing a season. But next week is Carolina. They're the worst rushing defense in the.

[Mike Wright]

League and Trey Benson left injured.

[Jason Moore]

That's why I wanted to bring it up. Trey Benson is out with an injury. Amari D. Mercado is already out. The Cardinals are in a very like, Chuba and Carolina situation where there isn't backups. You know, James Conner, this is what we said about his schedule. It was going to line up really, really well for running backs down the stretch. Carolina and then Los Angeles in the title game. Pay attention to that. And then like we said, you know, Spears is going to be really relevant. Pollard might miss. I mean, he just might not be able to play.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. If Pollard can't play, Taj Spears against Indianapolis will be probably the pickup of the week. And the pickup and play.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Anybody else at the running back position you want to talk about? Jason?

[Mike Wright]

Rico, Dowdle? Mike's not here. We got to give him the shout out. 149 rushing yards. Mike's start of the week and he just continues to really helped the Cowboys. It seems like if they had listened to Mike at the beginning of the season, maybe that, maybe that they got to a better start than, you know, Rico's been great. Rico has. He has taken, you know, 20 plus carries and you look at the last three weeks, 112 yards, 131 yards, 149 yards. The offense for the Cowboys has looked better. And you think back to the beginning of the year when they were losing games and Rico's out there getting, you know, seven, eight carries for 26, 30 yards. And they're giving Zeke some work and they're. They're mixing everyone they can loop key or.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, I mean, it's. And there's that Carolina defense that I was just talking about with James Connor giving up a nice 149, 112, 131, 149. Dowdle is trying to break his own record every week. Rashad white got into the end zone again. Started the week 15 for 64. Bucky was great. Just didn't score.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. Yeah. Bucky is so superior to Rashad White. I mean, he really is. When you watch these two guys run, it feels like they need to give Bucky the ball more. I feel so bad for Bucky. The man though, he is. He is playing through it. He is. Toughen it out. That is a man.

[Jason Moore]

Well, they're right there for the playoffs tomorrow morning.

[Mike Wright]

Tomorrow morning. This guy's not going to be walking. He's going to be in a wheelchair being wheeled to practice. But he'll get back out there by Sunday. Drink your protein. Get in a hyperbaric chamber. Do what you got to do.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Wide receivers, top scorers.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, man.

[Jason Moore]

My really crappy backing into the dynasty playoffs. 6 seed team has Devonte Adams and Mike Evans.

[Mike Wright]

So Mike and I's championship champ team has Devonte Adams and Mike Evans and that's.

[Jason Moore]

We're moving on.

[Mike Wright]

That's a nice combination. Yeah. I played against Devonte Adams on Jeremy's team. I didn't like it.

[Jason Moore]

No.

[Mike Wright]

Jeremy, why didn't you play Mooney instead?

[Jason Moore]

I told him early in the morning that day. You're like, I don't know. I mean, you obviously made the round.

[Mike Wright]

I could see a world where Devonte has a monster game and I could see a world where he gooses.

[Jason Moore]

Well, he had the monster game after kind of a slow start. 9 for 198 and 2. Amazing to see what he's still capable of.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, and the. The drive, the game winning drive was all Devonte. It was three receptions, one of which was like this huge scramble. But nothing was better than the needed pickup for the first down where he toe taps an unbelievably impossible toe tap. That he was. He was old. Not old. He was legendarily former vintage Devonte Adams in this game.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, he was. Every time I got to be third down, you knew where the ball was going. And it didn't matter. Mike Evans, nine for 159 and two. He was, he was outrageous. He showed you the kind of ceiling that he can give Baker because he has an elite weapon. Almond Ross, St. Brown. It was a weird one. It was a weird one. This is not the way. This is not the way the Lions want to play football. They don't want to throw the ball 18 times to almond raw. But when you do 14 for 193 and one is in the cards and this is a big game for him. Brian Thomas, 10 for 105 and 2.

[Mike Wright]

Brian Thomas, if you haven't been paying attention is. I mean, I think he's the best rookie wide receiver like you talk about going forward, him versus Malik Neighbors. I would rather start Brian Thomas.

[Jason Moore]

You mean for this season?

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. I'm not saying all time I would still have both Malik and Marv ahead of Brian Thomas. But right now he is the centerpiece of their offense with Mac Jones is getting targeted like crazy and he's just super talented.

[Jason Moore]

Las Vegas next week. Not scary. Then Tennessee. So Brian Thomas, strong finish.

[Mike Wright]

Terry McClaren, two more touchdowns and so many missed opportunities. He had two bomb wide open bomb bomb touchdowns that just missed, just overthrown. And then he had a couple others like he could have had on Those he had 10 total targets. The three that he missed were probably worth more than the 73 and two that he caught.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, he's been outrageous. Devontae Smith and AJ Brown both got it done against Pittsburgh. It's big perform. I mean, 23 targets between them.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, you love to see the consolidation of targets. And if you've got two truly elite wide receivers, just do this. Quarterbacks, they can't guard both guys on, you know, they can't double cover both guys every place. So just find the one with the easier coverage and throw it to him every time.

[Jason Moore]

Malik neighbors 10 for 82 and one. Rashad Bateman, two touchdowns. He's always a threat down the field. CD Lamb, nine for one, 16 and one. Keeps getting it done with Cooper Rush.

[Mike Wright]

It was nice to see. I can't wait. He's on our league of record team. I can't wait for his shoulder to be healed and Dak to be back next season.

[Jason Moore]

And then Dobbs with two touchdowns last night on 40 yards. This one was interesting to me. Xavier worthy with 11 targets. I thought that was interesting. He had a pretty good performance and it's the most receptions he ever had.

[Mike Wright]

He also had three carries which his utilization in the running game is amounted to a handful of touchdowns on the season. The question, though, with the health of Mahomes, you know, I don't think you're going to be relying on Xavier Worthy this next week.

[Jason Moore]

There'll be a lot of unique schemed plays for Carson Wentz and we just don't know who those will involve. Nico Collins scored twice. Thank goodness. He only had four catches for 17 yards.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, 17 yards. And you're happy with the game? Mike always says touchdowns are worth too much, but Mike is an Eco Collins guy, so he didn't think that this week.

[Jason Moore]

Tight ends.

[Mike Wright]

Did you say Jerry Judy?

[Jason Moore]

No, Jerry Judy. 11 for 108.

[Mike Wright]

He's unstoppable right now.

[Jason Moore]

He looks great.

[Mike Wright]

He looks outstanding. He's the wide receiver 6. On the season with James, he is perfect. If you look from the bye week, he's been the wide receiver 4, the wide receiver 21, the wide receiver 1, the wide receiver 19, the wide receiver 11. Consistent. And this is coming up against Pittsburgh, Denver, Pittsburgh, Kansas City Chiefs. So, like this coming week, he gets the Cincinnati Bengals.

[Jason Moore]

Whoo. Yeah, it should be. It should be good. I just. There's part of me that's terrified that the Winston benching. I just don't want that to.

[Mike Wright]

I was so happy to see Dorian Thompson, Robinson come in and struggle, look awful and throw a pick of his own because I was like, James played his way to the bench, but I just, I was like, please tell me he's not playing his way to the next week. Bench.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, yeah. No, it was, it was wild. Tight ends. Johnny Smith, Sam Laporta, Trey McBride, Britain Strange, Brennan, Brenton Strange. If you don't know who he is, that's because most people don't. He's the tight end for Jacksonville after losing Mr. Evan Ingram. Yeah. He had, you know, 11 for 73 on 12 targets. That's kind of wild.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, I mean, you know, to have.

[Jason Moore]

In your lineup and semifinal week.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, the role is there. We'll have to, you know, make sure that Evan Ingram is out again before you play him. But when Evan Ingram has not been there. Strange has been involved.

[Jason Moore]

We've got, you know, we had a lot of disappointing performances at the tight end position, but Pat Friarmuth got back into the end zone for a third straight week, so that was nice. We'll take a break. We'll talk duds. This episode is brought to you by Amazon Prime. In my fantasy league, gift giving is almost as competitive as the playoffs. And every year I use Prime's Fast.

[Mike Wright]

Free delivery to grab the perfect gifts.

[Jason Moore]

Like a jersey for the league champ.

[Mike Wright]

Or, let's be honest, something ridiculous for whoever finishes last. And of course, Thursday Night Football on.

[Jason Moore]

Prime keeps my eyes on the prize.

[Mike Wright]

From streaming to shopping, it's on Prime.

[Jason Moore]

Visit Amazon.comprime to get more out of whatever you're into. This episode is brought to you by Duluth Trading Company. Just like you won't settle for average with your draft selections, those picks, the same should go for your workwear. Duluth Trading, you can outthink, outsmart, and outdo average with every piece of men's and women's gear that they build. It's why they fabricate fire hose pants to be epically tough. Pack their bibs full of pockets, and make sure buck naked underwear feels barely there. It's all about innovating ingenious gear that you won't find anywhere else. Shop online or in store today. Visit Duluth Trading dot com. Well, it's commiseration time, Mr. Moore. Let's do it.

[Mike Wright]

Pooped in his big boy pants. Evan Ingram is on IR officially. So Brenton Strange is a name to know.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, we actually did announce that.

[Mike Wright]

Great. I have to pee really bad.

[Jason Moore]

No, I know you do. I know you do. And I know that the Deuces are over there hoping that at any moment, you choose to get up. See, I wasn't sure if I should bring it up.

[Mike Wright]

Well, now I messaged everybody. Relief could be yours, Jason.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, Jason.

[Mike Wright]

The toilet trophy will stay yours, Papa Josh. Oh, nice. Yeah, let's talk about the duds.

[Jason Moore]

Let's really don't go to the bathroom before the show. I mean, after all these years, I.

[Mike Wright]

Do, but I'm so hydrated, man.

[Jason Moore]

Let me see your coffee count over here. Well, you got. You drink most of that coffee.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, the coffee's almost gone. I'm still. I'm. Look, I'm still drinking coffee. Oh, come on. That's too long a drop. That lasts forever.

[Jason Moore]

Just go, man. Just go. Oh, that's just. Now, for the record, Al is being real nice.

[Mike Wright]

If I go in my pants here, I don't get the trophy, right? It's only if I leave the show.

[Jason Moore]

I guess, theoretically, if they win. No, I don't want to incentivize them to go in their pants, okay? Because they would. They would do that. They have no pride or decorum. Yeah, they are. No maestros. All right, Duds. Brock Purdy, Kyler, Murray Tua, Tonga Vailoa. Who turned the ball over four times.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, Kyler and Tua were Expected to have big games and they really, you know, Kyler did again. This is the second time where he's played in a game where it's a blowout victory. It wasn't like he was bad. 30 to 17 victory, but for fantasy purposes, let you down because James Conner took over. Tua, on the other hand, was bad. Tua played like crap, threw the ball to the other team. And this is kind of what's the game away. This is, this is what we were talking about. And my concern for him, you know, he, he was great against the Raiders and great against the Patriots and great against the jets. And it's like the Dolphins have basically in the entire Mike McDaniel era, they have beat up on bad teams and they just can't hang with actual good teams.

[Jason Moore]

I believe the number is three and 13. So against teams over 500.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. And so it's ironic because coming into this game against Houston, I wasn't sure if this was a good team. I was like, is this a really good team or is this kind of an okay team? And now they go up against another team where you go, is this a good. It's the San Francisco 49ers. It's like, are they a really good team or no?

[Jason Moore]

Well, you know, Houston was above.500. Maybe it's not just really good teams. Just if you're above.500, you've got a bad shot. The 49ers are a game below.

[Mike Wright]

Sounds right.

[Jason Moore]

So Kyler Murray, can you even trust him against Carolina on the road next week?

[Mike Wright]

Trust is not in his DNA.

[Jason Moore]

No, Jamis Winston got benched. He's. He played really bad. I mean, just really, really, really bad. There were plays that you were just like, oh, gosh, Jamis. Like, this is embarrassing.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, it was. It was a bad weather game. And that is the only bright thing you could say about Jameis Winston. He was who man. He was the. James usually comes with like he's two face, you know, and he's flipping the coin and you know, you just don't know how it's going to come up. But he had a two sided bad faced coin in this game.

[Jason Moore]

It didn't matter what side came up.

[Mike Wright]

Both sides were awful.

[Jason Moore]

Will Levis got benched.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, Will Levis made James Winston look good.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Will Love sucks.

[Mike Wright]

He sucks. I love his quote last week. He's like, we're not going to worry about the results. It's like, what? Yeah, he had a quote last week.

[Jason Moore]

What are you going to worry about then?

[Mike Wright]

The process and the Process for him was three interceptions in.

[Jason Moore]

Don't worry about it all, man.

[Mike Wright]

He threw three interceptions, Andy, and he only threw 12 passes. That's incredible work.

[Jason Moore]

Will Banana, Ramos running backs. We had some down weeks from the top three running backs. Derek Henry, Saquon, Barkley, you know, they were. Saquon was. I mean, these are okay games for the ordinary player, but not for these guys.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, and Derek Henry was expected against the Giants with like a two and a half touchdown spread. I mean, you expected Derek Henry. I put a bet on Derek Henry's over at 100 rushing yards. He only got to 67. Saquon's was a little bit more concerning because he got injured in this game and he did come back and he played, but he never looked the same.

[Jason Moore]

No, he kept going down quickly and.

[Mike Wright]

And then they kept getting Gainwell involved. Gainwell was really involved as the game went along. So I want to hear more about his injury. But it's, it's a little bit more concerning. Like Derek Henry. I am not concerned at all. Derek Henry. Lamar Jackson just annihilated the Giants and they didn't need Derek Henry. And then in the fourth quarter they didn't. They didn't play Derek Henry.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, and it's Pittsburgh next week. So, you know, these are guys you're playing. These are just moments of, you know, like James Cook last week where you were like, oh, this is not great. Do I have confidence? Well, you're going to play your stars. Joe Mixon is going to be a tough one, too. 12 for 23. He did catch five passes, but it's against Kansas City next.

[Mike Wright]

I don't think it's tough. Joe Mixon is a. He's absolutely got to be started and I think he'll be fine.

[Jason Moore]

Chuba Hubbard. This was disappointing. Dallas is a weak run defense, but they're getting stronger.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, and they're off 10 for 32.

[Jason Moore]

On the ground, though. That's Chubby Hubbard.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. I mean, you had a really bad game from Bryce Young. He looked like the Bryce of the beginning of the year and that put them in a hole. And then that wasn't where they could run the ball and give Chuba another 31 opportunities.

[Jason Moore]

Montgomery, we talked about it. He did catch four passes, but he ran for four yards and was barely on the field. Only the second game below double digits all year For Monty, they played 30% of snaps. Yeah. They play Chicago next week. That should be your saving grace if you have him. Chicago, they'll be heavily favored and that's.

[Mike Wright]

A Plus matchup, and it's always a good revenge game for Monty Tyrone.

[Jason Moore]

Tracy Jr. Did not play well. 10 for 31 against Baltimore. One catch. The touchdown went to Singletary.

[Mike Wright]

The one catch was the real problem. I mean, he had 10 targets the week prior. Obviously two quarterback changes, and it's hard to know what you could bake on from that. But his involvement in the passing game is what allows him to be good.

[Jason Moore]

Najee Harris had a terrible, terrible, terrible game. This is the Philly matchup. You know, next week it's Washington, right, Facing Philly. The running game for Washington. I'd be terrified. Philly gave up 14 yards. Najee. And 12 to Jalen Warren and a fumble for Najee. It was a disaster for your team.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. Very, very ugly.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Wide receiver Cooper Cup, Gustia Debo and Juwan Jennings on Thursday. We talked about this game. Very disappointing. And here we are with Tyree kill after a 20 plus point week last week, two for 36.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, I mean, he hasn't been good pretty much the whole season. Tua, like I said, played like garbage. And it's very difficult to do well when your quarterback is thinking. I'm just curious, Andy, would you rather have Tyree Kill or Lamar Jackson?

[Jason Moore]

I like Lamar more. Why do you ask?

[Mike Wright]

I ask because someone gifted you Lamar Jackson for Tyree Kill a couple weeks ago.

[Jason Moore]

And I mean, it wasn't straight up.

[Mike Wright]

No, no.

[Jason Moore]

There were lots of other pieces that.

[Mike Wright]

Was, that was the primary. Yeah. Like, you got Zay Flowers back in that trade too, right?

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. And I gave up some picks. I gave up some picks.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

I love that you guys are so stuck on these trades that I've made. Like, I'm proud of the trades that I made. I would be too, like. And the results as the year goes on, I'm more proud of them because when you make a trade, you hope it works out in a way where your friends hate you because of the trade.

[Mike Wright]

If I were you, I'd be so proud of how fast I was able to click accept on getting Jamar Chase for Amari Cooper. I'd be like, man, my pointer finger was like. It was incredible.

[Jason Moore]

Y'all take the, like, the other parts away because you just. You're so overwhelmed with my greatness. Who won the title last year? Uh huh. Yeah. Yeah. I hope you pee yourself, Jason.

[Mike Wright]

Me too.

[Jason Moore]

DK Metcalf is in the midst of a full disappearing act.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, I mean, I mean, he's, he's been not good.

[Jason Moore]

Not medium horrible. 32, 37, 41, 4457 and now might not have Gino.

[Mike Wright]

And playing Minnesota, JSN is for sure the wide receiver one for this team. He's overtaken at the very least since DK Metcalf's injury. DK Metcalf looked good in the beginning of the year. He got injured, missed a couple games, had the bye week. Since that, he has come back and he's on pace for 74 for 924 and no touchdowns. I mean, 924 yards is. That's not like, oh, you're a bum, a worthless NFL player. But you're, you're not great for fantasy. And if you're not getting touchdowns, which he's had none since returning from the injury, is. Feels like you can't even play him in fantasy.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. And in the 17 game seasons, you know, that's 50 yards a game, basically. That's not going to get it done. Amari Cooper, goose, full goose.

[Mike Wright]

He might have been the one to hurt the most people.

[Jason Moore]

I think that's Cooper cup by a lot because I think Amari Cooper was not played by everybody in the. But yeah, if you played him, you're probably not going to be prepping for a, for a lineup next week.

[Mike Wright]

No, no, probably not.

[Jason Moore]

And then Calvin Ridley could not overcome the Will Levis Experience. 3 for 41.

[Mike Wright]

Has anyone? Calvin should put on the other team's uniform. You know what I mean? Like, if Calvin went out there in a Bengals uniform, he would have the.

[Jason Moore]

Same amount of receptions.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. You know, and they usually go for touchdowns.

[Jason Moore]

Oh, you're right. And he didn't score on these.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

Put on another uniform, catch it and then run the other way.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, I think that's, that's, that's the key if you're playing with Will Levis, Josh Taylor. That's why quarterbacks matter, Josh. Speaking of quarterbacks mattering, Josh Downs got eight targets from Anthony Richardson. He was able to catch three of them for 32 yards. So a down game in his first return to action, Anthony Richardson, he was 45% completion percentage.

[Jason Moore]

He's up to 47% of the year.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, Anthony Richardson is. Maybe he can develop and become good. Josh Allen, who's the best of the best in the league right now, there was a time into his playing career where he stunk. He just wasn't good. And so you, you have like the hopes that Anthony Richardson can develop. But make no mistake, he is a bad quarterback right now. He is, he is not able to run an NFL offense.

[Jason Moore]

Josh Allen as a rookie, do you remember his completion percentage?

[Mike Wright]

I would guess it was like 53%.

[Jason Moore]

It was 53%.

[Mike Wright]

Okay.

[Jason Moore]

He then went to 59% as a sophomore and 69%.

[Mike Wright]

The 69 was when he got Stefan Diggs in 2020.

[Jason Moore]

But yeah, right now. Right now, people just need to chill on Richardson in general. Yeah, on both sides. Every game I'm seeing declarations of I'm right about this or that. He's got the same amount of games played as Bo nicks. He started 12 collegiate games. He is super, super inexperienced as a professional quarterback, which is why you see some plays that look like he is the next Lamar Jackson, you know, a superstar, the next Cam Newton. And then there are plays that he looks absolutely awful. And just relax, like, don't. You don't need to decide what he is yet.

[Mike Wright]

I would agree with that. I mean, he can still develop into a good quarterback for fantasy purposes. You're still going to have big weeks because of the legs. This week was tough because he. He threw two interceptions. He had, you know, the long, I think like a 23 yard rushing touchdown. So it seemed like he was on his way to a good fantasy game.

[Jason Moore]

Is he a streamer?

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, he's a streamer. He's someone that you.

[Jason Moore]

Is that. Is that a triggering word for you right now?

[Mike Wright]

No, I'm good, man. I've mentally. I've mentally fortified the urine into my bloodstream, so I am. I am empty now. My bladder is gone.

[Jason Moore]

Maybe if you cried a little bit from the.

[Mike Wright]

I would. I would cry urine. Right?

[Jason Moore]

That'd be gross. That'd be pretty gross. Okay, Kelsey, four for 27k. Dot, is he.

[Mike Wright]

What? I know how concerned you are because.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, because I don't have anybody else to play.

[Mike Wright]

You're rocking Kate Auton right now. And Baker had a great game again where he goes out, throws for a lot of yards and four touchdowns. And here's Kate Auton with two for 24.

[Jason Moore]

Well, don't worry. I knew I had a Kate Otten problem, so I went out and I got a couple of guys.

[Mike Wright]

Who'd you get?

[Jason Moore]

Zach Ertz.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, don't play him. He's concussed.

[Jason Moore]

But no, I had Taysom Hill. Is he still an option for me?

[Mike Wright]

He is done for the year.

[Jason Moore]

Well, it's not working. Yeah, that's going to be my downfall. Hunter Henry, just 4 for 25. Jake Ferguson just 2 for 23. And Tucker Kraft. Was Tucker crap this week.

[Mike Wright]

Nice.

[Jason Moore]

Well, little did you know, Jason, we actually have a surprise 60 minute mailbag coming up.

[Mike Wright]

Fantastic. Did you know that I'm going to. I'm going to pee my pants.

[Jason Moore]

No, we don't. We got waivers and streamers tomorrow. And hungry for more. The Thursday night preview in the mailbag. We'll be getting you ready for your semifinal matchups. And when I say you, I meant Al, not you, Jason. I'm sorry, but you do. Have you got your championship team?

[Mike Wright]

I've been a couple more leagues.

[Jason Moore]

I know. Just have a shot. But we all thought you might.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

Goodbye, everybody. Catch you tomorrow.

[Mike Wright]

Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast. Join our fantasy football community on jointhefoot.com and follow us on Twitter Heff Ballers.