Starts of the Week + It’s Football Time!

Summary:

Welcome to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast 00:06

• The hosts of the Fantasy Footballers podcast, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright, welcome listeners and set an enthusiastic tone for the show. They express excitement for the upcoming football season and various activities planned, such as their league draft and discussions on matchups and player rankings.
• They encourage listeners to visit their website for week one rankings and a start/sit tool, emphasizing its importance as the season gets underway.

“It’s time to ride at dawn; it’s football time!”

Super Bowl Predictions 02:00

• The hosts discuss their Super Bowl predictions, revealing differing views on which teams will reach the finals. One host predicts the Detroit Lions will defeat the Kansas City Chiefs, while another favors the Chiefs to win against the Lions.
• They also mention the Baltimore Ravens facing off against the Green Bay Packers, showcasing predictions from various participants on the show, including fan favorites and underdog hopes.

“We’re calling our shots; it’s this time of year!”

Fan Optimism and Team Chances 04:00

• The conversation shifts to fan optimism regarding the Chicago Bears and Dallas Cowboys, highlighting contrasting expectations between fans and the actual Super Bowl odds for their teams. Despite the Bears having low odds, their fans exhibit high hopes, while Cowboys fans balance caution with their historical playoff disappointments.
• They draw analogies to the hope fans feel, comparing it to those who have long awaited a satisfying meal choosing to celebrate an average one as the best ever.

“Let them have their hope, but it shouldn’t become delusion.”

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Quarterback Starts of the Week 10:31

• The hosts discuss their starts of the week, beginning with the quarterback position. Jason highlights Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins, emphasizing his impressive performance last year and his team’s explosive offense against the Jacksonville Jaguars. With key players like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in good health, Tua is a strong choice to start this week.
• Following Tua, they mention Jared Goff as a bold prediction for a top-five quarterback this week, particularly due to his favorable matchup against the Rams. Goff plays in a high-scoring game environment, making him a sleeper option for fantasy managers.
• Kyler Murray is also brought up as a solid option, coming back from injury and showcasing his potential in a shootout against Buffalo. His mobility and strong offensive surrounding cast could lead to a fruitful fantasy week.

“This is a game that we are all very excited for, the Miami Dolphins against the Jacksonville Jaguars.”

Running Back Recommendations 14:46

• James Cook is introduced as a must-start running back, riding the momentum from last year’s strong finish under a new offensive coordinator. The Buffalo Bills establish a run-heavy approach, resulting in significant opportunities for Cook in a projected lead over the Arizona Cardinals, known for their subpar run defense.
• Javonte Williams is noted as a potential star, particularly against the Seattle Seahawks. With Samaje Perine gone, Williams could emerge as the workhorse for the Broncos, making him an attractive start given Seattle’s weak defensive metrics from last year.

“James Cook should eat; the opponent’s last year ran the ball 521 times against Arizona.”

Wide Receiver Starts of the Week 18:30

• Malik Nabors is highlighted as a rookie receiver to watch, facing a Minnesota Vikings defense that struggled against wide receivers in the previous season. His role in the new offense could see him receive a substantial number of targets early on, making him a suitable start.
• Additionally, Christian Watson is considered a risky yet potentially rewarding option against the Philadelphia Eagles. With his health in question but a favorable matchup against a defense that allowed significant fantasy points to outside receivers, Watson could provide the upside that some fantasy managers might need.

“I think this week the world is going to know that Malik Nabors is a stud.”

Analyzing Wide Receiver Performance: Stefon Diggs 20:06

• The discussion begins with an examination of wide receiver Stefan Diggs, particularly his performance as part of the Houston Texans against the Colts. There is an acknowledgment of general nervousness surrounding the passing catchers, specifically Nico Collins, while optimism grows for Diggs’s role. Over recent weeks, Diggs has shown potential for success within this new environment.
• It’s highlighted that the current situation has changed positively for Diggs, especially as he prepares for his debut with the Texans. The strategy involves utilizing Diggs effectively in the middle of the field, which plays to his strengths and the offensive strategy of quarterback CJ Stroud.
• Statistically, it is noted that 26% of Stroud’s targets have gone to the middle of the field, the highest in the NFL, while the Colts’ defensive scheme primarily relies on cover three, leaving open opportunities. The importance of incorporating Diggs early in the game for both team synergy and establishing offensive structure is emphasized.
• The potential for another receiver, Tank Dell, to impact Diggs’s opportunities is acknowledged. The risk posed by multiple strong receivers potentially leading to inconsistent fantasy output is also discussed, suggesting a cautious approach when managing their performances.

“Establishing Diggs in this offense is going to be a priority for the head coach and CJ Stroud to begin to open up the outside for Nico Collins and Tank Dell.”

Tight End Strategies and Matchups 22:21

• The discussion shifts to tight end Evan Ingram, particularly in relation to his matchup with the Dolphins, where he is expected to be involved heavily due to defensive vulnerabilities. Although Ingram previously received mixed reviews, his performance expectations rise based on the Dolphins’ defensive weaknesses against tight ends.
• An analysis of the Dolphins’ defensive strategy reveals reliance on cover six, which is less effective against players like Ingram who perform well in short, flat routes. This highlights Ingram’s potential to collect many targets, particularly if playing in a PPR scoring format, which aligns with the current matchup dynamics.

“In a PPR format, Ingram is going to have so many targets and receptions this week; I love it.”

Risk and Potential with Recent Picks 24:03

• The conversation turns to tight end Cade Otten and the potential for him to lead his team in targets due to defensive lapses from Arizona. The discussion underscores the benefits of picking players who can exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses, with a specific note of the Cardinals’ struggles in both pass rush and secondary performance.
• The importance of staying adaptable with fantasy pickups is reiterated as players with strong potential might not always be rostered immediately, necessitating strategic drops from underperforming players.

“Arizona gave up the second most touchdowns to tight ends last year.”

Jordan Love and Fantasy Implications 29:43

• The discussion opens with a focus on the DraftKings Sportsbook line regarding the Eagles, highlighting it as minus two with an over/under set at 49 points for the game. This matchup features two playoff teams and a variety of fantasy options available. Jordan Love‘s current DraftKings line indicates that he is expected to throw for over 250 passing yards, which is deemed a good play given that the Eagles’ secondary ranked poorly last season by allowing high fantasy points.
• Analysts express confidence in Love’s performance against a weak Eagles defense, anticipating a promising start to his season. The initial schedule includes games against several notable teams, which adds to the excitement around Love’s potential.

“Jordan Love is a great play.”

Josh Jacobs‘ Role and Green Bay’s Offense 30:52

• The conversation then shifts to Josh Jacobs, identified as the only remaining running back for the Raiders. Despite a tough defensive front, Jacobs is expected to handle a significant workload. The Packers offense is highlighted as an area of interest, with uncertainty concerning their receiving corps, making it essential for fantasy managers to start players like Christian Watson and Jaden Reed. They may experience ups and downs but are worth starting based on matchups.
• Concerns about Romeo Doubs‘ injury may complicate decisions for fantasy players, particularly regarding who to start on the Green Bay team.

“If the passing game is working, we’ve always seen value from Aaron Jones and Josh Jacobs.”

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Key Player Performances and Disappointments 32:18

• The notes touch on potential disappointments in the upcoming games, noting that Davion Wicks could be a letdown if he doesn’t see the field much, especially given his impressive per-route production last year. The Eagles’ key fantasy assets such as Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown, and DeVonta Smith are also mentioned as reliable weekly starters.
• Meanwhile, the running back situation in Philadelphia is raising questions about how they will manage workload, especially regarding Saquon Barkley. The changes in the Eagles’ offense and defensive coaching staff will make their performance closely watched in the opening game.

“The most disappointing thing would be Davion Wicks not getting the snaps we hope for.”

Evaluating the Falcons and Steelers Matchup 34:51

• There’s anticipation surrounding the Falcons’ offense as Arthur Smith prepares against the Steelers. Key players such as Bijan Robinson and Kyle Pitts are expected to take center stage, but there is caution regarding the matchup against the Steelers’ strong defense.
• Concerns arise about the potential for a split workload between Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, especially near the goal line. For the Steelers, both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren‘s roles and contributions will be closely monitored, creating uncertainty as they adapt to new quarterback play.

“It would be disappointing if Allgeier comes in around the goal line.”

Arizona’s Defense and Josh Allen‘s Performance 39:26

• Arizona’s defense is struggling, particularly in terms of pressuring the quarterback. This sets up a favorable situation for Buffalo’s Josh Allen, who thrives when not under pressure. He ranks first in fantasy points per game on non-pressured dropbacks and has an impressive completion rate of 75% in such scenarios.
• The Cardinals’ lack of personnel and existing injuries on their defensive line compound their inability to generate pressure, making Allen a strong candidate for a productive fantasy outing.

“Josh Allen is number one in fantasy points per game on non-pressured dropbacks.”

Fantasy Football Decisions for Week One 39:50

• The speaker reflects on difficult fantasy football decisions, particularly regarding players like Curtis Samuel and Khil Shakir. Samuel is recovering from a turf toe injury, which raises concerns about his performance in the opening week. Meanwhile, Shakir seems to be a safer bet.
• The speaker expresses uncertainty about which wide receiver to choose, contemplating Keon Coleman‘s role as well. The ultimate decision leans towards Shakir due to Samuel’s injury concerns.

“My pick is actually none of these despite the bad defense.”

Running Backs and Game Script 40:50

• The matchup could lead to a run-heavy game for Buffalo. James Cook is highlighted as a top start for the week, with the potential for a rookie running back, Ray Davis, to have a breakout performance.
• The speaker notes that in past games against the Cardinals, running backs often succeeded due to favorable game script, hinting that a substantial amount of ground game is likely.

“Last year, despite the bad defense, wide receivers didn’t do well against the Cardinals; running backs did.”

James Conner‘s Role in Arizona 41:50

• James Conner is solidified as the workhorse back for the Cardinals, particularly under an offensive coordinator who emphasizes his role within the team. The speaker states that Conner might be undervalued in fantasy drafts, making him an appealing selection for those looking for reliable performance.
• Conner’s potential success is contrasted with the limited upside of other running backs in Arizona unless he sustains an injury.

“James Conner feels like the cheapest real bell cow for a good offense available in the draft.”

Expectations for the Upcoming Matchup 43:30

• As both teams enter the matchup with questions on offense, there are rising expectations for a competitive game. The Bills are presumed to be favorites, but the Cardinals might surprise given their circumstance.
• An “almost upset” could be on the horizon, with predictions tipping Arizona to miss a game-winning field goal, reflecting a closely contested game.

“I think Arizona will miss a game-winning field goal on the last play of the game.”

Discussion on Player Performance and Potential 48:47

• There is a conversation about the physical demands on players, particularly mentioning the importance of lightening one’s load during the season. The commentary introduces a sense of camaraderie as players support each other.
• A player named Sneed, previously with the Chiefs, is recognized for his performance against top wide receivers last season, suggesting he could be a game-changer for the current team. His potential to shadow DJ Moore is highlighted, indicating that if Moore is well defended, it could significantly impact the game strategy.
• They discuss various players including Romeo Doubs and Brian Thomas, evaluating their potential contributions for upcoming matches and deciding on possible line-ups based on recent performances and matchups.

“You look pretty good this year… Sneed came over from the Chiefs and he was an absolute monstrosity for opposing wide receivers last season.”

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Assessing Team Matchups and Player Strategies 51:30

• The conversation shifts focus to the New England Patriots‘ matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. The team discusses the potential challenges the Patriots may face and the limited offensive capabilities under their current quarterback.
• Specific attention is given to the Bengals’ defense and the unpredictable performance expected from both teams, strongly suggesting streaming against the Bengals due to their offensive line’s struggles.
• Further, they touch on key players to watch, such as Raheem Mostert and the Texans’ running game, while dissecting who could emerge as leading players based on their roles in prior seasons.

“New England was a very good defense against the run last year, but I’m not sure that the Bengals’ defense isn’t horse doo too.”

Insights on Fantasy Football Players and Strategies 56:03

• The video wraps up by analyzing various players for fantasy implications. There is debate over whether players like Zach Moss or Gus Edwards would be preferable based on their likely roles in upcoming games.
• They also discuss divisional matchups, emphasizing the impact of rookies like Anthony Richardson and established players such as Joe Mixon, shedding light on their fantasy viability.
• It’s noted that the Texans have invested heavily on the defensive side, aiming for improvement in the new season, thus affecting potential performances across the board.

“There will be points here to have, and I think you can start all of them and hope that it goes to your guy.”

Player Status and Fantasy Implications 58:45

• There is ongoing discussion about player availability, particularly for the Colts. Josh Downs, who has a high ankle sprain, is unlikely to play, which narrows down the wide receiver options. The consensus is to start Michael Pittman as the only reliable wide receiver for the Colts.
• Players like Mitchell and Pierce are considered dart throws, meaning their performance might fluctuate and is difficult to predict. Jonathan Taylor is mentioned as a must-start player.
• Michael Pittman’s performance is under scrutiny, with a DK line set at 5.5 receptions. The outlook is bleak, and there is a general belief that he might end up with fewer receptions than expected, which questions his status as a wide receiver two for the week.

“I think he ends with five, so I would go under.”