Level Up Players + Super Bowl Picks, Kelce Reaction
Travis Kelce oh no! On today’s fantasy football podcast, Andy, Mike, and Jason breakdown the Lions at Chiefs matchup, with Travis Kelce injury implications. Plus, Super Bowl predictions and Level-Up players for the 2023 fantasy football season! Manage your redraft, keeper, and dynasty fantasy football teams with the #1 fantasy football podcast. — Fantasy Football Podcast for September 6th, 2023.
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Summary:
Updates on Travis Kelce’s injury and the speculation around his availability for the upcoming game 01:32
- The hosts discuss Travis Kelce‘s injury and provide updates from his brother about the severity of the injury.
- The hosts mention that Kelce’s knee did not swell up immediately after the injury, but he currently has swelling and they are trying to reduce it.
“I didn’t draft him in the first. Everybody out there trolling me. He was a keeper. Travis Kelce. Maybe you’ve heard of him. I have. He’s awesome. Plays Thursday.” “His brother came out and said he thinks he’s going to play Thursday.” “Jason Kelsey did say that his knee did not swell up when it happened. You got the bone bruise, ligaments were intact, but he didn’t have swelling.” “And he did mention that Kelsey does have swelling right now. So they’re trying to get the swelling down.”
The hosts discuss an HOA violation related to Jason’s championship flag 04:13
- The hosts mention receiving an email about an HOA violation due to a large championship flag pointing to their studio.
- They joke about paying the fine and Jason being a champion again next year.
“In other news, Jason got us an HOA violation.” “Here at the studio, get an email last night, your 15 foot championship flag pointing people to the studio was against HOA terms.” “I’ll pay the fine. I’ll pay the fine and be happy to do it again next year.”
Introduction to the “Hungry for More” segment 06:04
- The hosts introduce a new segment called “Hungry for More” presented by UberEats.
- This segment will focus on breakout performances and players who have the potential to level up in the upcoming season.
“Welcome to Hungry for More presented by UberEats.”
Discussion about Christian Watson as a player who has the potential to ascend 07:17
- The hosts discuss Christian Watson, a player who showed brilliance towards the end of the previous season.
- They highlight his athleticism and his performance compared to other rookie wide receivers.
“My guy is someone that we saw just absolute brilliance from after two-thirds of the season of irrelevance from. That is Christian Watson.” “He is a big goalie.” “Among rookie wide receivers with 50 plus targets since 2014, he ranks seventh in yards per route run.” “I do believe that his opportunity is going to be very good.”
“He is a big goalie.” “Among rookie wide receivers with 50 plus targets since 2014, he ranks seventh in yards per route run.”
The hosts discuss the importance of opportunity for Christian Watson 08:44
- The hosts mention that Christian Watson‘s opportunity to perform well is promising, especially if Romeo Dobbs, another wide receiver, is dealing with an injury.
“I do believe that his opportunity is going to be very good with right now Romeo Dobbs still kind of dealing with his own injury.” “And even if Dobbs is there and he was the preseason hero, Christian Watson is their best wide receiver.”
Christian Watson‘s Potential Breakout Season 08:55
- Christian Watson has the opportunity to break out in a special way due to his team’s vacated targets and the need for a new identity on offense. 08:50
“I think Christian Watson has the chance to really, truly break out in a special way.”
- The team will discuss Christian Watson further in the upcoming episode. 09:04
A.J. Dillon‘s Potential for Increased Role 09:20
- A.J. Dillon, the backup running back for the Green Bay Packers, did not meet the high expectations set for him last year. 09:20
- Towards the end of the season, there was a nearly equal split between A.J. Dillon and Aaron Jones in terms of rushing attempts and targets. 09:42
- A.J. Dillon had six rushing touchdowns during that time period, compared to Aaron Jones‘ zero. 10:11
- Despite having 229 opportunities, A.J. Dillon finished as the RB25, which was disappointing. 10:18
- With Aaron Jones getting older and the uncertainty surrounding the team’s identity, A.J. Dillon could potentially see an increased role in the future. 10:26
“He’s interesting because he’s going so late in the draft, especially compared to last year. And he still has that situation that if Aaron Jones falls off or if Aaron Jones misses time, A.J. Dillon gets a whole bunch of opportunities on a weekly basis. Can he capitalize? Is he good enough? I don’t, I don’t think we know just yet because we’ve seen him be very hot and very cold. But I think that he is a name worth monitoring.”
Dameon Pierce‘s Potential Level Up 11:52
- Damian Pierce, running back for the Houston Texans, is considered a “hungry for more” candidate. 11:46
- Despite being on a not-so-good football team, Damian Pierce had a promising rookie season. 13:36
- He showed potential as a receiver, and if he can improve his reception numbers, it would be a significant upgrade. 13:47
- Damian Pierce had a seven-game stretch where he was on pace for 1,700 rushing yards before getting injured. 13:54
- Second-year running backs with around 275 touches in the past decade have had exceptional success, with most finishing in the top 18 and many becoming RB1s. 14:21
“I think he has the possibility to level up.”
- This segment also mentions other interesting players like Javonte Williams and Pacheco. 15:49
Travis Kelce‘s Injury 17:07
- Last year, George Kittle missed two weeks due to injury.
- It’s good news that Travis Kelce‘s injury is not long-term.
“As soon as [George Kittle] came back, dominated.” “This is not going to be a long-term injury.” “Yeah, missed two weeks.” “Yeah.”
Kadarius Toney‘s Injury 17:24
- Cadarius Tony, the Chiefs’ wide receiver, is limited but expected to play on Thursday.
“So we think we’ll see Cadarius Tony out there for the kickoff week.”
Travis Kelce‘s Impact 17:33
- Travis Kelce‘s absence means vacating 52 targets, 700 yards, and two touchdowns per game.
- There will be plenty of opportunities to take a shot at picking up some of that production.
“You realize that Travis Kelce on a per game basis is going to vacate 52 targets, 700 yards and two touchdowns.” “So there will be a lot of … You could take a shot there.”
Isaiah Pacheco’s Availability 17:57
- Isaiah Pacheco is off the injury report and expected to play.
- Jerrick McKinnon could also be a potential target for additional opportunities.
“Isaiah Pacheco is off the injury report. He’s going to play.” “Jerrick McKinnon could take some of those targets.”
Thursday Night Breakdown 18:03
- A Thursday night game breakdown is coming up.
“We do have a Thursday night breakdown coming up.”
Terry McLaurin‘s Injury Update 18:20
- Terry McLaurin, the Washington Commanders‘ wide receiver, is progressing towards recovery day by day.
- There is hope that McLaurin will be able to play against Arizona.
“Commanders wide receiver, Terry McLaurin, progressing towards recovery day by day.” “They’re still hopeful he can play against Arizona.”
Mark Andrews‘ Practice 18:37
- Mark Andrews is expected to practice today, and more news will be available.
“Mark Andrews is supposed to practice today.”
Backup Option for Mark Andrews or Travis Kelce 18:50
- If you have Mark Andrews or Travis Kelce, it’s recommended to pick up Isaiah likely as a backup option.
“Pick up Isaiah likely in case he is the starter.”
Lions vs Chiefs Thursday Night Game 19:15
- The Lions are playing against the Chiefs in the Thursday night game.
“The Lions, the Chiefs, it’s Thursday night.”
Chiefs’ Line Movement 19:18
- The Chiefs are favored to win by 4.5 points, with an over/under of 52.5.
- The line has moved by two points.
“The Draft King Sportsbook line has the Chiefs minus four and a half now.” “The over and under is 52 and a half.” “But the line has moved. It’s moved. By two points.”
Chiefs’ Dominance in Season Openers 20:46
- Patrick Mahomes has a perfect record in season openers with five wins, a 73% completion rate, 18 touchdowns, and zero interceptions.
“Patrick Mahomes right now in five season openers, he’s five and oh 73% completion rate, 18 touchdowns, zero interceptions.”
Offensive Targets for the Lions 21:28
- Without Travis Kelce, the Lions may have opportunities for players like Jerrick McKinnon, Isaiah Pacheco, Kaderius Tony, Sky Moore, and Justin Watson.
“I think McKinnon’s going to have a week one that makes people say, ‘oh, that wasn’t a last round pick.'” “I think Isaiah Pacheco will have his opportunities.” “Kaderius Tony, Sky Moore, Justin Watson will probably have a huge game.”
Importance of Chris Jones’ Absence 22:17
- Chris Jones’ absence from the Chiefs’ defensive line could create opportunities for the Lions’ offense, especially in terms of passing.
- The Lions’ offensive line is strong, and Jared Goff should have time to throw the ball.
“A really good offensive line that the Lions have without Chris Jones.” “They should be able to stand in the pocket, have Jared Goff be the statue he wants to be, and deliver the ball.”
“You realize that Travis Kelce on a per game basis is going to vacate 52 targets, 700 yards and two touchdowns.” “We think we’ll see Cadarius Tony out there for the kickoff week.” “I think Isaiah Pacheco will have his opportunities.” “Isaiah Pacheco is off the injury report. He’s going to play.” “We do have a Thursday night breakdown coming up.” “They’re still hopeful [Terry McLaurin] can play against Arizona.” “Mark Andrews is supposed to practice today.” “Pick up Isaiah likely in case he is the starter.” “The Lions, the Chiefs, it’s Thursday night.” “The Draft King Sportsbook line has the Chiefs minus four and a half now.” “Patrick Mahomes right now in five season openers, he’s five and oh 73% completion rate, 18 touchdowns, zero interceptions.” “I think McKinnon’s going to have a week one that makes people say, ‘oh, that wasn’t a last round pick.'” “I think Isaiah Pacheco will have his opportunities.” “A really good offensive line that the Lions have without Chris Jones.”
Age comparison between Marvin Jones and Dylan 23:51
- Marvin Jones and Dylan are the same age.
- The reaction in the video is because either the hosts thought the Elans are older or Dylan is younger than they initially believed.
“Marvin Jones and Dylan are the same age. The reaction in the video is because either the hosts thought the Elans are older or Dylan is younger than they initially believed.”
Forgetting how old Adam Thielen is 24:01
- The hosts initially thought Marvin Jones was two years older than Adam Thielen, but they forgot to consider Thielen’s age.
“The hosts initially thought Marvin Jones was two years older than Adam Thielen, but they forgot to consider Thielen’s age.”
David Montgomery‘s limited snaps in the preseason 24:19
- David Montgomery did not take a snap in the preseason.
- This limited preseason involvement might have affected people’s perception of him during drafts.
- Despite the limited snaps, it is believed that Montgomery will have a significant role on the field.
“David Montgomery did not take a snap in the preseason. This limited preseason involvement might have affected people’s perception of him during drafts. Despite the limited snaps, it is believed that Montgomery will have a significant role on the field.”
David Montgomery‘s potential in the passing game 25:14
- There is a suggestion that David Montgomery might surprise with his involvement in the passing game.
- Comparisons have been made between Montgomery and Jamal Williams, highlighting Montgomery’s potential upgrade in the passing game.
- Considering the current state of the wide receiver core and the suspension of Jamison Williams, the running backs are expected to play a crucial role in the passing game.
“There is a suggestion that David Montgomery might surprise with his involvement in the passing game. Comparisons have been made between Montgomery and Jamal Williams, highlighting Montgomery’s potential upgrade in the passing game. Considering the current state of the wide receiver core and the suspension of Jamison Williams, the running backs are expected to play a crucial role in the passing game.”
Expectations for a close game between the Lions and Chiefs 25:46
- The hosts anticipate a good and close game between the Lions and Chiefs.
- Despite the absence of Travis Kelce, there is excitement surrounding the matchup.
- The over/under point total for the game is 52.5, indicating high expectations for scoring.
“The hosts anticipate a good and close game between the Lions and Chiefs. Despite the absence of Travis Kelce, there is excitement surrounding the matchup. The over/under point total for the game is 52.5, indicating high expectations for scoring.”
Start/sit decision: David Montgomery vs Chris Jones 26:16
- There is a debate about whether to start David Montgomery against the Chiefs without Chris Jones or Khalil Herbert against Green Bay’s defense.
- Opinions vary, with some leaning towards Montgomery due to his involvement in the passing game and goal-line opportunities.
- The opening kickoff and the excitement of watching the game are also factors to consider when making the start/sit decision.
“There is a debate about whether to start David Montgomery against the Chiefs without Chris Jones or Khalil Herbert against Green Bay’s defense. Opinions vary, with some leaning towards Montgomery due to his involvement in the passing game and goal-line opportunities. The opening kickoff and the excitement of watching the game are also factors to consider when making the start/sit decision.”
Concerns about Isaiah Pacheco’s performance against the Lions 27:11
- There are concerns about Isaiah Pacheco’s performance against the Lions due to their strong run defense from the previous year.
- The Lions performed well against running backs on the ground last year.
- With Patrick Mahomes leading the Chiefs’ passing game and having good pass-catching running backs, Pacheco’s success on the ground might be limited.
“There are concerns about Isaiah Pacheco’s performance against the Lions due to their strong run defense from the previous year. The Lions performed well against running backs on the ground last year. With Patrick Mahomes leading the Chiefs’ passing game and having good pass-catching running backs, Pacheco’s success on the ground might be limited.”
Impact of Travis Kelce‘s absence on the Chiefs’ offense 28:24
- Travis Kelce‘s absence due to injury has forced the Chiefs to reconfigure their offensive plan.
- The offense will have to change with Noah Gray, the backup tight end, in place of Kelce.
- This adjustment could potentially affect the team’s performance.
“Travis Kelce‘s absence due to injury has forced the Chiefs to reconfigure their offensive plan. The offense will have to change with Noah Gray, the backup tight end, in place of Kelce. This adjustment could potentially affect the team’s performance.”
Super Bowl Predictions 31:19
- The speaker predicts that the Eagles will make it back to the Super Bowl. 31:30
- They congratulate the Philadelphia Eagles. 31:32
- The speaker has the Cincinnati Bengals, led by Joe Burrow, as their AFC champion and Super Bowl champion. 31:34
- They mention the string of first-time Super Bowl appearances by quarterbacks, and how Joe Burrow or Jalen Hurts winning would break that streak. 31:44
“I have the Eagles going back to the Super Bowl, but unfortunately, I have them just a little bit below my AFC champion, Super Bowl champion Cincinnati Bengals and Joe Burrow getting it done.”
Dark Horse Teams 32:00
- The speaker mentions considering the Jets over the Packers as a dark horse team. 32:00
- They discuss how the world couldn’t handle the Jets making it to the Super Bowl and how it would be the highest-rated Super Bowl ever. 32:05
- The speaker contemplates the reaction of Roger Goodell if Aaron Rodgers beats the Packers or if Jordan Love leads them to victory. 32:09
“I almost went Jets over Packers as the dark horse. The world could not handle that…I mean, the highest-rated Super Bowl ever. Roger Goodell would.”
Other Dark Horse Teams 33:00
- The speaker mentions the Arizona Cardinals as a “gross” dark horse team. 33:08
- They comment on the New Orleans Saints as another potential dark horse if they can win their division. 33:13
“It is a really gross, very nasty dark horse. Cardinals. That’s that gross…That horse is dead. It was the New Orleans Saints.”
NFC vs. AFC Quarterbacks 33:39
- The speaker discusses the depth of quarterback talent in the NFC and struggles to determine the second-best quarterback after Kyler Murray. 33:45
- They contrast this with the AFC, highlighting the presence of quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Lamar Jackson. 33:56
“The NFC and I mean, who’s the second-best quarterback in the NFC? Is it DAC? Is it cousins? Is it Brock Purdy? It’s probably Kyler…And then you go to the AFC. It’s like Burrow, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, they’re all there.”
Travis Kelce‘s ADP after Injury 36:59
- The speaker discusses where Travis Kelce might be drafted following his recent injury. They suggest he may fall to the back of the second round. 37:13
- They compare him to other top wide receivers and running backs available around that same draft position. 37:21
“He might be at the back of the second…would you take, um, Stefon Diggs, AJ Brown type? Oh, man. Or would you take Travis Kelce?”
“Middle second round running backs. Would you take Travis Kelce or would you take Josh Jacobs, Tony Pollard? I’ll take the running backs.”
Level-Up Players: Garrett Wilson and Jaylin Waddle 38:04
- The hosts discuss their thoughts on fantasy football players who have potential for a breakout season.
- Specifically, they mention Garrett Wilson and Jaylin Waddle as players with high upside.
“I find myself taking Garrett Wilson over the guys way ahead of him.” 38:23
Travis Kelce‘s Injury and Draft Strategy 38:06
- The hosts discuss the impact of Travis Kelce‘s injury on fantasy football draft strategy.
- They debate between selecting Kelce despite his injury concerns or opting for other players such as Chris Olave.
“I’ll take Kelce there. Because those guys are not, they’re not bona fide guarantees.” 38:11
Choosing Between Rashad White and Christian Watson 38:34
- A voicemail asks for advice on whether to start Rashad White or Christian Watson in a half-point PPR league.
- Both players have favorable matchups, but the hosts differ in their opinions.
“For me, it’s an easy Christian Watson.” 38:47
Evaluating the Chicago Bears‘ Matchup 39:00
- The hosts discuss the Chicago Bears‘ matchup and the potential impact on Rashad White and Christian Watson‘s performance.
- They mention that Chicago is favored in the game against Minnesota.
“Chicago’s favorite in the, or I think they’re favorite in that game by two and a half points.” 39:04
Trade Veto Controversy 40:45
- The hosts express frustration over a trade being vetoed by the league commissioner.
- They critique the commissioner’s decision and allude to the unfairness of the trade veto.
“I don’t like this trade… Meh.” 41:58
Commissioner’s Veto and Trading Cup for Olave 41:02
- The hosts express their disagreement with the commissioner vetoing a trade involving Cooper Kupp and Chris Olave.
- They discuss the risk associated with Kupp’s injury and debate the value of each player.
“If this was a startup draft right now, I would probably be drafting Olave over Kupp.” 41:36
Reacting to the NFL Sunday Ritual 43:13
- The hosts answer an Instagram question about how they watch football on Sundays.
- They describe their viewing setup, which involves having multiple televisions and using Red Zone as well.
“Generally, we watch it as a group… And yeah, generally everything.” 43:18
Dobbs update 44:34
- No update on Dobbs before the season update. 44:37
- It is expected that Dobbs will wait for the report. 44:38
- The report will likely state that Dobbs is questionable for this week. 44:41
- Dobbs had a hamstring injury and sat out the last preseason game. 44:48
- It is uncertain if Dobbs will be active. 44:53
“He’s kind of questionable for this week.” 44:41