Fantasy Footballers Podcast – Week 3 Waivers & QB Streamers, Josh Gordon Traded!
Release Date: September 18, 2018
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
1. Introduction and Announcements
The episode begins with promotional segments for the show's sponsors. Andy Holloway introduces Squad Ql, a mobile app designed to optimize fantasy football lineups, while Jason Moore highlights the benefits of joining their Patreon community at jointhefoot.com. The hosts share quick updates about their own team standings, showcasing their competitive spirit and establishing rapport with listeners.
Notable Quotes:
- Jason Moore ([00:28]): "JoinTheFoot.com."
- Andy Holloway ([04:17]): "If you are the reactionary signer of Danny Gordon and started images, you got bailed out."
2. Josh Gordon Traded to the New England Patriots
The main topic of the episode revolves around the significant trade of Josh Gordon from the Cleveland Browns to the New England Patriots. The hosts dissect the implications of this move for both teams and, more importantly, for fantasy football managers.
Key Points:
- Trade Details: Josh Gordon was traded for an NFL 5th round pick, which many perceive as offering minimal return.
- Fantasy Implications: The trade raises questions about Gordon's fit within the Patriots' offensive scheme and his potential productivity in a new environment.
- Risk vs. Reward: Mike Wright emphasizes the high upside Gordon brings to the Patriots but also highlights the inherent risks due to his past suspensions and the challenges of adapting to a new team system.
Notable Quotes:
- Andy Holloway ([05:33]): "Josh Gordon traded to the New England Patriots."
- Mike Wright ([06:13]): "I'm looking to trade Josh Gordon for the hype price because if you can trade him as a wide receiver one, then worst case scenario, if you get that value, you still got something back."
Discussion Highlights:
- Potential Upside: Gordon could revitalize the Patriots' receiving corps, much like Randy Moss did in the past, offering explosive plays and substantial fantasy points.
- Inherent Risks: Concerns about his discipline, ability to learn the Patriots' complex playbook, and consistency in performance.
- Trade Strategy: Mike Wright suggests pairing Gordon with a starting running back like David Johnson to maximize trade value, ensuring that even if Gordon underperforms, the team still gains valuable assets.
Additional Insights:
- Jason Moore ([11:46]): "Josh Gordon is suspended."
- The hosts discuss the potential suspension and its impact on Gordon’s immediate availability and fantasy value.
3. Review of Recent NFL Games & Player Performances
The hosts provide a comprehensive analysis of recent NFL performances, focusing on key players and their implications for fantasy football.
Key Points:
- Russell Wilson’s Struggles: Analysis of Wilson’s inefficiency, particularly his low yards per attempt and poor decision-making, which negatively impacts his fantasy value.
- Mitch Trubisky’s Performance: Extensive critique of Trubisky’s inconsistent play, earning him the nickname "Chuckles," and its repercussions for fantasy managers relying on him.
- Impact on Team Offenses: Discussion on how struggles from key quarterbacks like Wilson and Trubisky affect their teammates, including wide receivers and tight ends.
Notable Quotes:
- Andy Holloway ([14:21]): "If I had to start one next week, I'd start Penny."
- Mike Wright ([19:34]): "I would be seeing if people want to buy in and if I can."
Discussion Highlights:
- Russell Wilson: Despite his talent, Wilson’s recent performances have raised concerns about his reliability and the overall Seahawks’ offensive dynamics.
- Mitch Trubisky: His poor decision-making and low efficiency make him a problematic starter for fantasy teams, with the hosts suggesting reevaluating his role in lineups.
4. News and Updates
The episode includes updates on player statuses, injuries, and other pertinent news that can influence fantasy football decisions.
Key Points:
- Larry Fitzgerald’s Return: Expected to play in Week 3, offering a boost to fantasy managers who have him on their roster.
- Corey Coleman’s Release: Discussion on Coleman’s release from the Patriots and his relationship with Josh Gordon, affecting his fantasy value.
- Injury Reports: Updates on players like Devonta Freeman dealing with injuries, Chris Ivory’s status, and kicker updates with Dan Bailey’s acquisition by the Vikings.
Notable Quotes:
- Andy Holloway ([20:47]): "We have a list of wide receivers to check out."
- Jason Moore ([21:15]): "Jay Gruden said Rob Kelly is going to miss at least a month due to surgery on his toe."
Discussion Highlights:
- Impact of Injuries: How players missing games or dealing with injuries can affect team performances and fantasy strategies.
- Kicker Updates: The addition of Dan Bailey provides a valuable option for fantasy teams needing a reliable kicker.
5. Waiver Wire Recommendations
A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to advising listeners on optimal waiver wire pickups to strengthen their fantasy teams for Week 3.
Key Points:
- Wide Receivers:
- Keelan Cole ([27:41]): With 50% ownership and solid performance stats, Cole is recommended as a reliable pickup.
- Quincy Unwa: Acts as a safety valve for his quarterback, making him a consistent option.
- Kenny Golladay ([27:53-30:43]): Emerging as a top target due to increased opportunities and a weak secondary.
- John Brown: High target volume and big-play potential make him an attractive option.
- Running Backs:
- Matt Breida ([37:19-40:05]): Leading the NFL in rushing through Week 2, Breida offers significant fantasy upside.
- Gio Bernard: Benefiting from Joe Mixon’s absence, Bernand presents a short-term boost.
- Bilal Powell and Aaron Jones: Additional options for depth and potential game-changers.
- Tight Ends:
- Eric Ebron and Rudolph: High reliability for touchdowns and consistent usage.
Notable Quotes:
- Andy Holloway ([27:41]): "All of these have had multiple pretty solid weeks."
- Mike Wright ([28:56]): "Kenny Golladay is the number one target at his team."
Discussion Highlights:
- Prioritizing Upside and Safety: Emphasis on selecting players who either offer high upside due to their roles in their respective offenses or provide a reliable floor with consistent performances.
- Strategic Bidding: Advice on how much to bid for these players based on their potential impact and availability in various leagues.
6. Quarterback Streaming Options
The hosts explore viable streaming quarterbacks options for Week 3, addressing the challenges posed by the underperformance of standard starters.
Key Points:
- Blake Bortles and Ryan Fitzpatrick:
- Blake Bortles ([53:26-57:04]): Despite past criticisms, Bortles is highlighted for his potential in favorable matchups, offering solid fantasy points.
- Ryan Fitzpatrick ([55:46-56:55]): Praised for his explosive performances, Fitzpatrick presents a strong streaming option against weaker defenses.
- Ryan Tannehill ([56:00-58:12]): Recommended for deeper leagues as a low-risk, high-reward option with the ability to accumulate both passing and rushing yards.
Notable Quotes:
- Jason Moore ([55:58]): "Ryan Fitzpatrick as a fantasy quarterback with strong start."
- Andy Holloway ([55:21]): "I’m going to go a little deeper, but I’m going to stay in Florida and with Ryan."
Discussion Highlights:
- Matchup Analysis: Evaluation of upcoming matchups to determine the best streaming options based on opponent defenses.
- Longevity and Potential: Consideration of how long a streaming quarterback might remain valuable based on their schedule and performance trends.
7. Concluding Remarks
The episode wraps up with final thoughts, encouraging listeners to implement the discussed strategies and stay engaged with the Fantasy Footballers community for ongoing advice.
Key Points:
- Actionable Insights: Listeners are encouraged to act on waiver wire recommendations and consider strategic streaming to optimize their teams.
- Community Engagement: Promotion of FanDuel contests and the podcast’s online communities for additional support and resources.
Notable Quotes:
- Andy Holloway ([60:19]): "Hopefully you have some success on the waiver wire."
- Mike Wright ([60:36]): "Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast."
Summary
In this comprehensive episode, the Fantasy Footballers provide invaluable insights into the intricacies of managing fantasy football teams during the early weeks of the NFL season. The trade of Josh Gordon to the Patriots serves as a focal point, prompting detailed discussions on potential benefits and pitfalls for fantasy managers. The hosts meticulously review recent player performances, highlighting underperforming quarterbacks and shining a spotlight on emerging talents ripe for waiver pickups.
Key recommendations include adding wide receivers like Keelan Cole and Kenny Golladay, and running backs such as Matt Breida and Gio Bernard to bolster team depth. The exploration of streaming quarterbacks like Blake Bortles and Ryan Fitzpatrick offers listeners tactical options to navigate the uncertainties posed by inconsistent starters.
Throughout the episode, the hosts intersperse their analysis with humor and personal anecdotes, making the content engaging and relatable. Noteworthy quotes punctuate their strategic advice, ensuring listeners leave with clear, actionable strategies to enhance their fantasy teams.
Listeners are encouraged to leverage the waiver wire effectively, consider strategic quarterback streaming, and stay connected with the Fantasy Footballers community for ongoing support and updates. This episode equips fantasy managers with the tools and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions, positioning them for success as the season progresses.