Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary Episode: Week 16 Waivers + Full Stream Ahead, Championship Prep
Release Date: December 17, 2019
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

Introduction

In the Week 16 episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright delve into crucial strategies and insights for fantasy football players gearing up for the championship weekend. The discussion centers around waiver wire decisions, player performances, injury impacts, and streaming options to optimize teams for the final stretch of the season. The conversation is rich with expert analysis, practical advice, and engaging banter, providing listeners with actionable takeaways to secure their league titles.

Championship Weekend Prep

Waivers: The Deciding Factor for Championships

The hosts emphasize the paramount importance of waiver wire activity in Week 16, asserting that "Waivers win championships. They do through the year and they do this week" ([03:38] Jason Moore). Both Moore and Wright advocate for making informed waiver decisions to bolster teams for the championship, highlighting that late-season pickups can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Dropping and Holding Players: Loyalty vs. Performance

A key theme is the balance between player loyalty and performance-based decisions. Moore cautions against holding onto underperforming players out of loyalty, stating, "You just got to do what you've been doing, which is making smart decisions based on the information you have, which right now means you're not loyal to guys that, you know, stink now" ([04:15] Jason Moore). Wright echoes this sentiment, using Tevin Coleman as an example of a player who should be cut despite being an "honorary starter" due to lackluster performance ([04:49] Mike Wright).

Player Analysis and Injury Updates

Dalvin Cook's Injury and Its Implications

Dalvin Cook's ongoing shoulder issues are a focal point. Cook's potential absence in upcoming games poses significant challenges for fantasy owners reliant on him. Moore notes the conflicting reports about Cook's status, with Mike Zimmer optimistic and Adam Schefter predicting his limited availability ([10:55] Mike Wright). The trio discusses alternatives, emphasizing the need for reliable backups:

• Alexander Madison: Identified as a strong handcuff option, Moore highlights Madison's role as "a guy that is the, you know, number two on the depth chart prior to his injury" ([35:26] Jason Moore).
• Mike Boone: With Cook potentially out, Boone emerges as a crucial pickup, showcasing his ability by posting "13 for 56 and two touchdowns" against the Chargers ([34:53] Mike Wright).

Josh Gordon's Suspension

Josh Gordon's fifth suspension is addressed, with Wright expressing doubt about his return to the NFL: "there's no NFL team at this point that will sign him" ([12:36] Mike Wright). The hosts reflect on Gordon's past performances and the bleak outlook for his fantasy relevance.

David Montgomery vs. Alternatives

David Montgomery's inconsistent performances are scrutinized, raising concerns about his future role and reliability in fantasy lineups. Moore expresses apprehension about Montgomery's potential to become a timeshare, contrasting him with more promising backs like Devin Singletary and Miles Sanders ([16:18] Jason Moore).

Wide Receiver and Tight End Strategies

Waiver Wire Targets: Prashad Perryman and Anthony Miller

Prashad Perryman is identified as a top waiver pickup due to his recent performance and favorable matchup. Miller's surge is also noted, with Moore praising his increase in targets: "he has the targets have been insane for Anthony Miller of late" ([29:03] Jason Moore).

Streaming Tight Ends: Greg Ward and Others

The discussion shifts to tight end strategies, highlighting the rise of Tyler Higby, who has become a must-start given his explosive recent performances ([42:07] Jason Moore). Greg Ward is recommended as a rookie with potential, while Danny Amendola is dismissed due to unreliable performances and tough matchups ([33:38] Mike Wright; [31:02] Jason Moore).

Wide Receiver Options: Justin Watson and John Ross

Justin Watson is debated as a waiver pickup amidst his uncertain role, with some hosts advocating for more reliable options like John Ross and Brashad Perryman. Moore underscores the difficulty in trusting Watson's consistency ([25:32] Mike Wright; [32:13] Jason Moore).

Quarterback and Defense Streaming

Quarterback Streaming: Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Damon Tannehill

The hosts explore streaming quarterback options, presenting Ryan Fitzpatrick as a viable candidate against Cincinnati. However, they express reservations about relying solely on Fitzpatrick, especially in single-quarterback leagues. Damon Tannehill is recommended for those who have built momentum, though flexibility is advised based on opponents' health and performance ([47:32] Jason Moore).

Defense Streaming: Denver vs. Atlanta

Defense streaming is addressed, with Denver's defense favored thanks to their strong performance against typically vulnerable offenses. Wright and Moore debate preferred defensive matchups, ultimately siding with Denver over Atlanta due to Denver's established defensive prowess ([50:11] Jason Moore; [53:51] Mike Wright).

Championing Strategic Moves

Pivot Options and Roster Management

Wright underscores the necessity of having pivot options in place, especially in championship week scenarios where unexpected injuries can derail strategies: "You're free to cut all handcuffs unless the current starter is somewhat injured" ([02:57] Mike Wright). The importance of decluttering rosters by removing non-contributing players is highlighted to prevent opponents from exploiting weak links.

Leveraging Matchups and Game Scripts

The hosts advocate for leveraging favorable matchups and anticipating game scripts. For instance, targeting players with high target shares against defenses that struggle to cover their positions is recommended. Moore emphasizes targeting Anthony Miller against Kansas City, anticipating a pass-heavy game script that benefits wide receivers with high usage ([29:27] Jason Moore).

Notable Quotes

• Jason Moore on Waivers:
  “[03:38] 'Waivers win championships. They do through the year and they do this week.'”

• Mike Wright on Player Loyalty:
  “[04:49] 'I'm not worried about my opponent playing him. There are certain guys like that where I'd be like, sure, please scoop them up and play them against me.'”

• Jason Moore on Dalvin Cook:
  “[10:55] 'It is the biggest injury of the week. It's the one we're going to be monitoring.'”

• Mike Wright on Josh Gordon:
  “[12:46] 'Super sad. You know, look, it's over for Josh.'”

• Jason Moore on Farewell to Underperformers:
  “[02:57] 'You just got to do what you've been doing, which is making smart decisions based on the information you have...'”

Closing Remarks

As the episode concludes, the hosts reiterate the critical nature of waiver wire activity and strategic streaming in securing fantasy football championships. They encourage listeners to remain proactive in managing their rosters, stay informed about player statuses, and capitalize on advantageous matchups. The blend of analytical depth and engaging dialogue makes this episode a valuable resource for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to finalize their championship runs with confidence.

Additional Resources

• Website: thefantasyfootballers.com
• Twitter: @the_ffballers
• Shop: shopbalers.com

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