Fantasy Footballers Podcast – Week 6 Waivers + Full Stream Ahead, Three Fiddles | October 13, 2020

In this dynamic episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve into Week 6 waivers, analyze player performances, and provide strategic advice to help fantasy managers optimize their teams. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. Taysom Hill and the New Orleans Saints’ Offensive Strategy ([01:20]-[04:49])

The episode begins with a spirited debate about the New Orleans Saints' utilization of Taysom Hill in various gadget plays. Andy Holloway suggests an unconventional podcast introduction involving Hill, sparking a lively discussion.

Mike Wright Criticizes Overuse:

"You want to know when they kept bringing them in every time it mattered... What are you doing? It's not like Drew Brees couldn't have also scored the touchdown there."
([02:42]-[03:03])

Jason Moore Adds Frustration: Jason echoes Mike's sentiment, highlighting the frustration of seeing a versatile player like Hill being overused in critical moments, leading to unpredictable results.

Andy Holloway Draws Fantasy Parallel:

"That's the equivalent of the fantasy football pot committed on the drafted player. You draft somebody that's supposed to be great, and then you start Kenyan Drake every week."
([05:00]-[05:13])

This analogy underscores the challenges fantasy managers face when high-value players are inconsistently utilized.

2. Dealing with Bad Beats and Injuries ([05:30]-[06:45])

Jason Moore Shares a Bad Beat: Jason recounts a frustrating experience where Keenan Allen's injury derailed his fantasy team despite Allen's strong start.

"I had a lead that seemed impossible for me to come back until halfway through Sunday night... Still, I. It was a lead... two injuries."
([05:53]-[06:40])

The hosts empathize with the emotional toll of injuries on fantasy performances and discuss strategies to mitigate such impacts.

3. Waiver Wire Recommendations ([07:08]-[21:54])

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to waiver wire pickups and drop candidates, providing listeners with actionable advice for Week 6.

Chase Claypool – Top Wide Receiver Pickup ([16:28]-[21:08]):

Chase Claypool’s breakout performance for the Steelers is highlighted as a premier waiver wire target. Following Deontay Johnson’s injury, Claypool has capitalized on increased opportunities.

"Chase Claypool is the number one wide receiver pickup of the week... he took it to 100."
([16:28]-[17:16])

Key Points:

• Performance: Four touchdowns in a single game demonstrate Claypool’s high upside.
• Strategy: Prioritize Claypool for his immediate impact and potential long-term value.

Alexander Mattison – Replacement Running Back ([35:03]-[36:16]):

With Dalvin Cook likely out due to an adductor strain, Alexander Mattison emerges as a crucial short-term replacement.

"Alexander Madison will be treated very similar to Dalvin Cook... this is a one week rental."
([35:03]-[36:16])

Key Points:

• Opportunity: Mattison offers a reliable boost for Week 6 against a favorable Falcons defense.
• Caution: Managers should prepare for Cook's return in subsequent weeks.

Travis Fulgham – Potential Wide Receiver Breakout ([24:38]-[26:37]):

Travis Fulgham’s performance with the Eagles is discussed, noting his significant targets and potential despite upcoming challenging matchups.

"Travis Fulgham just looks like an absolute superstar talent."
([24:46]-[25:26])

Key Points:

• Performance: High receptions and yardage showcase Fulgham’s capabilities.
• Consideration: Assess his reliability against tough defenses before fully committing.

Drop Candidates – Russell Gage and Michael Gallup ([14:19]-[16:34]):

The hosts identify Russell Gage and Michael Gallup as players to consider dropping due to inconsistent performances and uncertain future usage.

"Michael Gallup... if he’s on waivers, he would be someone I would be looking to pick up."
([14:19]-[14:56])

Key Points:

• Performance: Recent middling outputs raise concerns about reliability.
• Strategy: Evaluate based on upcoming team strategies and potential quarterback influences.

4. Running Back Strategies and Pickups ([33:14]-[38:53])

Running back depth is emphasized as critical for Week 6, especially with injuries impacting key players.

Alexander Mattison vs. Dalvin Cook:

Mattison is positioned as a temporary but effective replacement for Cook, offering fantasy managers a chance to maintain their running back strength.

"Madison is a great player. He was a third-round pick just two years ago."
([35:03]-[36:16])

Mark Ingram and J.K. Dobbins:

The discussion covers managing depth-chart players like Mark Ingram and J.K. Dobbins, who can offer potential upside if injuries arise.

"They are still upside bench players... number one add next week is J.K. Dobbins."
([34:57]-[35:25])

Damien Harris:

With Sony Michel on short-term IR, Damien Harris becomes a viable pickup, offering increased opportunities and consistent workload.

"Damien Harris is startable this week."
([38:31]-[38:46])

5. Wide Receiver Adjustments and Targets ([13:33]-[29:51])

The hosts discuss strategic adjustments for wide receivers, focusing on maximizing opportunities and value.

Chase Claypool’s Potential:

Claypool’s multi-dimensional playstyle makes him a high-value addition, capable of both receiving and rushing touchdowns.

"He is so good. But this was my... he took it to 100."
([21:08]-[21:25])

Other Potential Additions:

Players like Mike Williams and T. Higgins are evaluated for their high upside, though with cautions regarding consistency and upcoming matchups.

"Mike Williams... you need to see if he's back from the bye week with good form."
([28:14]-[29:51])

Key Points:

• Assess Opportunities: Focus on receivers facing weaker defenses or who have shown explosive potential.
• Balance Risk and Reward: Weigh high upside against consistency and matchup challenges.

6. Tight End Slot Considerations ([40:25]-[45:08])

The tight end position is scrutinized, with recommendations for both holding and dropping certain players based on performance and potential.

Robert Tanya vs. Zach Ertz ([41:48]-[42:32]):

Debate surrounds whether to drop underperforming tight ends like Zach Ertz in favor of potential breakout candidates like Robert Tanya.

"I lean that way... but it is not guaranteed by any strength."
([41:48]-[42:32])

Austin Hooper as a Streaming Option:

Austin Hooper is considered a reliable streaming option against favorable matchups, providing stable but not spectacular production.

"Austin Hooper is somebody that I think I can put in my lineup... might not be spectacular."
([43:51]-[44:47])

Key Points:

• Evaluate Matchups: Target tight ends in favorable matchups to maximize weekly points.
• Consider Long-Term Potential: Balance immediate needs with potential future value.

7. Streaming Quarterbacks and Defenses ([45:14]-[50:12])

Strategic streaming of quarterbacks and defenses is essential for maximizing weekly performance.

Quarterbacks:

Ryan Fitzpatrick: Lauded as an excellent streaming option due to his affordability and reliable performances.

"He is playing with zero cares... there is not a worry."
([47:51]-[48:12])

Kirk Cousins: Recommended for his strong performance against Atlanta, especially with Justin Jefferson enhancing his offensive capabilities.

"Kirk Cousins against Atlanta... this is a monstrous investment."
([49:54]-[50:12])

Defenses:

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets: Top streaming defense option due to the Jets' weak offensive performance.

"Miami gets to take on the New York Jets. That is just a recipe for success."
([46:21]-[46:28])

Washington vs. New York Giants: Washington's defense is another viable pick, thanks to their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks effectively.

"Washington gives up tons and tons of sacks and the Giants are actually putting up a decent amount of pressure..."
([46:21]-[46:28])

Key Points:

• Quarterback Streaming: Utilize affordable and reliable QBs like Fitzpatrick to cover for starters' inconsistencies or injuries.
• Defense Streaming: Target defenses facing weak offenses or high turnover teams to maximize weekly points.

8. Mailbag: Trade and Roster Questions ([51:39]-[54:23])

Listeners’ questions are addressed, providing personalized advice on trades and roster management.

Trade Kenyan Drake for Darren Waller ([52:04]-[52:27]):

Recommendation: Yes, trade Drake for Waller if looking to upgrade a position, as Waller offers consistent high-value points.

"If I could trade him for a known commodity that's really a difference maker at a position, then yes."
([52:04]-[52:27])

Trade Jameson Crowder for Le'Veon Bell ([52:33]-[53:19]):

Recommendation: Trade Crowder for Bell, considering Bell’s higher potential despite both players being on underperforming teams.

Trade Todd Gurley for Robert Woods ([53:26]-[54:23]):

Recommendation: Carefully consider, as Todd Gurley’s touchdown potential may outweigh Robert Woods’ current production. Evaluate based on team needs and performance trends.

"Todd Gurley is putting up points, albeit, you know, very touchdown dependent."
([53:26]-[54:06])

Streaming Quarterbacks Post-Loss ([54:20]-[54:22]):

Recommendation: Favor Dalton over Fitzpatrick after losing a key quarterback to injury, emphasizing Dalton’s future potential and stability.

"Ros. You got to go Dalton."
([54:22]-[54:23])

9. Conclusion ([54:53]-[55:42])

The episode wraps up with acknowledgments of new memorabilia acquisitions and a final reminder about railway crossing safety, echoing the initial anecdote about not attempting to outrun trains.

"If you ever stopped at a railway crossing... think about this. Even if the engineer sees you and applies the brakes right away, it can take a train over a mile to stop."
([54:34]-[55:42])

The hosts encourage listeners to engage with the Fantasy Footballers community through jointhefoot.com and social media channels for ongoing tips and discussions.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essential discussions and strategic insights shared during the Fantasy Footballers Podcast episode for Week 6. Whether you're navigating waiver wire pickups, managing injuries, or optimizing your streaming strategies, the hosts provide valuable advice to help you succeed in your fantasy leagues.