Starts of the Week + Week 17 Breakdown, Title Time!
Week 17 matchup previews on today’s fantasy football podcast! Andy, Mike, and Jason do their best with tough start sit decisions to make! Plus, Starts of the Week, injury updates, and the Boom Boom Kicker! Manage your redraft, keeper, and dynasty fantasy football teams with the #1 fantasy football podcast. — Fantasy Football Podcast for December 28th, 2023.
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Summary:
Amari Cooper‘s injury and uncertain status 01:30
- Amari Cooper had a record-setting performance in the previous week with 48 fantasy points.
- However, he is facing a short week and a Thursday night game against the top defense for wide receivers and quarterbacks.
- Cooper has a heel injury, and there is uncertainly around his availability for the game.
- Although the official report states it as rest, Cooper’s performance and limping during the previous game suggest that he is actually dealing with an injury.
- The conflicting information about his injury status makes a difference in fantasy decision-making.
“Amari Cooper put up a record setting, AFC Player of the Week were the 48-ish fantasy points depending on your league scoring with Joe Flacco last week… No practices… Hasn’t practiced due to a heel injury… Amari Cooper is limping… clearly he is actually dealing with something, although they listed on the report that it was more rest…. If I knew they were just giving him rest, that is far, far better to me in a tough matchup where you could still have him get 13, 14 targets in this game, difficult targets, good cornerback… Or if he’s actually struggling with his health and then you go, okay, is he going to be a little bit more limited, injury risk, in addition to the difficult matchup.”
Potential outcomes and factors in benching Cooper 04:26
- The potential outcomes for Amari Cooper in the game can be replicated by other players, making benching him a reasonable option.
- The Jets’ passing defense is the number one in fantasy football, making it a tough matchup for any wide receiver.
- Recent games have shown that the Jets have been successful in limiting opposing wide receivers’ fantasy points significantly.
- Considering alternative options, such as playing Devin Singletary or DeAndre Hopkins, can be a better choice based on their matchups and potential outcomes.
“The potential outcomes for Amari Cooper this evening, I think, I think can be replicated by other players… My goodness, the Jets passing defense against wide receivers. It’s brutal… what about recently, you know, now that they haven’t had Zach Wilson and maybe they’re giving up short fields or whatever. And my goodness, this last week against the Manders, 18 points below their expectation. The week prior, 10 points below expectation to a good Dolphins… they’ve given up points, but it’s a tough call and it’s not bench Cooper no matter what it’s bench Cooper based on your options.”
Making decisions and being prepared for potential outcomes 08:30
- It is important to be at peace with the decision made, considering the reasons behind it.
- Understanding the reasons for starting or benching Amari Cooper can make the outcome less frustrating.
- The potential of Amari Cooper scoring 20+ fantasy points is low, and considering other options may be a better strategy for fantasy success.
“But know the reasons why you are making the decisions you are making. And it makes it a little easier… I think if you were to handicap the potential of 20 plus fantasy points from Amari Cooper tonight. That that would be so minuscule of a potential outcome. That’s sub 10 percent. So and that’s the only way that you’re really really happy.”
“But know the reasons why you are making the decisions you are making. And it makes it a little easier.”
Fantasy Players’ Big Decision 09:12
- The video discusses the biggest decision fantasy players have for this evening.
- The matchups and news and notes will be analyzed.
“You could be OK with 10 points. Maybe.”
Bench Joe Flacco 09:35
- The decision to bench Joe Flacco is made easier due to the situations discussed.
- It is recommended to stream other options instead.
“It makes benching Joe Flacco easier.”
Russell Wilson‘s Future with the Denver Broncos 10:18
- Russell Wilson has been benched for the remainder of the season and is expected to be cut.
- The decision escalated rapidly from considering to not play him.
“He chose not to play football.”
Potential Landing Spot for Russell Wilson 11:31
- The Atlanta Falcons should pursue Russell Wilson if he hits the free market.
“The Atlanta Falcons should be drooling to go get Russell Wilson.”
Jared Stidham to Replace Russell Wilson 12:10
- Jared Stidham will take over as the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos.
“Jared Stidham will take over.”
Injury Updates and Practice Absences 12:40
- Various players did not practice due to injuries, including Keenan Allen and Cortland Sutton.
- Zay Flowers‘ calf injury was estimated during the team’s walk-through.
“I estimate you will be tilting very soon.”
Tony Pollard‘s Performance Concerns 14:45
- Tony Pollard‘s recent performance as a runner has been disappointing.
- The Detroit Lions defense has been strong against running backs.
“Efficiency has been a problem.”
Detroit Lions vs. Dallas Cowboys Game Analysis 14:31
- The game has the highest over/under of the week at 53 points.
- The Lions defense has not been performing well, which increases the likelihood of hitting the over.
“Can we finally have a 50-point game hit the over?”
Jared Goff‘s Challenge Against Dallas Cowboys 17:18
- Jared Goff‘s performance will depend on the game plan of the Lions.
- The Cowboys’ defense is strong against quarterbacks when opposing teams are down and pass-heavy.
- The Lions’ best chance to win is to focus on running the ball.
“It’s going to be hard and a bad game for golf.”
Potential Impact on Mike’s Dynasty Matchup 17:55
- Mike’s dynasty matchup could be affected by uninspiring quarterback options.
- The performance of Jared Goff and the Lions’ game plan will heavily impact the outcome.
“I know that he’s trying to will Jared.”
Jared Goff‘s potential performance 18:20
- Jared Goff likely won’t have a 300-yard passing game, but a performance around 200 yards with touchdowns inside the five-yard line is expected.
“You are hoping that it’s 200 [yards] they get inside the five.”
Players to rely on in the Lions offense 18:45
- CDLAM, Dak Prescott, Jameer Gibbs, and Brandon Cooks are key players for fantasy football.
“CDLAM, deck you’re hoping for big games there. Jameer Gibbs is a lock.”
David Montgomery‘s performance and injury status 19:25
- While David Montgomery hasn’t been as strong in the second half of the season, he’s still a top 24 back and has been performing well. There are no known injuries to Montgomery.
“He’s been a top 17 attempts. Is he on the injury report? No. I don’t believe so.”
New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills matchup 19:50
- The Patriots are 4-11 while the Bills are 9-6, and the Bills are heavy favorites in this game. Josh Allen is expected to perform well against the Patriots.
“You would expect process-wise that the Bills are winning this game and running the ball.”
Should we trust Stefon Diggs? 20:21
- Stefon Diggs has had lower fantasy point production in recent months due to changes in the Bills’ offensive strategies. However, considering his historical success against the Patriots, it’s advised to play him if you have him in your lineup.
“Diggs has been great for his entire tenure as a Buffalo Bill until the last two months.”
Fantasy outlook for the Bears vs. Falcons game 22:32
- The Atlanta Falcons will focus on running the football while the Chicago Bears received good news that DJ Moore is not on the injury report.
“Pace of play-wise, Atlanta is going to want to run the football.”
Justin Fields as a fantasy option 23:22
- Justin Fields is a viable fantasy option against the Atlanta Falcons, who have struggled against quarterbacks in recent weeks.
“To me, if I’ve got Fields, I’m playing them over Goff if I’ve got a Goff/Fields decision.”
Uncertainty surrounding Cole Kmet‘s availability 24:01
- Cole Kmet didn’t practice on Wednesday, so it’s important to monitor his status before making a decision on playing him in fantasy.
“I don’t think I’d play him, but just keep monitoring.”
Fantasy implications for the Raiders vs. Colts game 26:27
- The game between the Raiders and Colts is significant for determining the wild card spots, with both teams vying for a position in the playoffs.
“This game matters. I mean for both teams, wild card up for grabs.”
Adams vs Diggs 27:14
- Devonte Adams coming off an impressive game (eight catches, 101 yards, and a touchdown)
- Jason argues to start Adams in the title game
- The Raiders prefer a run-heavy game plan against the Colts
- Colts are vulnerable against the run, but solid against wide receivers
- Adams has been averaging 80 receiving yards per game from Week 10 to 15
- Adams is going to be targeted a lot 28:36
“I don’t think you can bench Devonte Adams in your title game.”
Jacobs and White 29:37
- Zimir White RB12 and 15 over the last two weeks
- Josh Jacobs missed Wednesday’s practice due to a quad injury
- Expectation that Jacobs will play
- Consider waiting for more information on Jacobs’ status before making lineup decisions
- If Jacobs plays, he should be in the lineup; if not, start White 30:20
“If Jacobs plays, he’s 100% in my lineup.” “If Zimir White is the starter and Jacobs isn’t playing, he’s 100% in my lineup.”
Michael Pittman 30:52
- Pittman was progressing well in concussion protocol but had symptoms resurface
- Limited practice on Wednesday is a positive sign
- Too early to determine if he will play
- Monitor his practice reports closely
- Colts’ offense struggles without Pittman 31:37
“If Michael Pittman plays, I’m playing Michael Pittman.” “If Michael Pittman doesn’t play, I have a more difficult time seeing the Colts win this game.”
Raiders DST 32:19
- Raiders defense playing well and underrated in fantasy
- Antonio Pierce’s impact since taking over as defensive coordinator
- Strong play regardless of Pittman’s availability
- Pay attention to their recent performance and consider streaming them 32:35
“Fantasy players aren’t paying enough attention to how well [Raiders DST] is playing.” “If you’re struggling on your defensive options, go have a peek, see if the Raiders believe that they are number one.” “Give that man the job.”
Kyren Williams‘ Performance 35:54
- Kyron Williams missed four games but is still number two in the league in rushing.
- In the last five games, Williams has rushed for 2043 yards and added 60 receptions for 300 receiving yards.
“Kyron Williams missed four games. Kyron Williams is number two in the league in rushing…2043 rushing yards is the type of numbers he’s put up over the last five games.”
Saquon Barkley‘s Matchup 36:48
- Saquon Barkley had a big game against Philly and scored 23 opportunities.
- The Rams have a tough matchup against the run, but Tyrod being there is helpful.
“I mean when you get the Saquon could easily have a really bad game here…I think Saquon is just a low end RB one of an average RB two this week.”
Matchup Discussion 37:34
- Players like Adams, Cooper, Kyron, Stafford, and Cup are all players you want in your lineup.
- Marcus Robinson could be a desperation flex option but can’t be relied upon for a championship week.
“I do think he is an OK play this week I would put him just behind the Justin Fields and I put him ahead of Jared Golf.”
Quarterback Options 40:10
- Kyler Murray is an OK streamer this week and is ranked as the quarterback 11.
- Jalen Hertz is a must-play and has already recorded fifth all-time in rushing touchdowns.
“I think Kyler is an OK streamer this week…Kyler has been scary Kyler has been disappointing but I do think he is an OK play this week.”
Eagles vs Cardinals Matchup 39:37
- The Eagles are expected to easily win the game against the Cardinals.
- Kyler Murray is considered an OK streaming option due to the matchup.
“I think I would play Kyler, I think Kyler is an OK streamer this week he’s my quarterback 11 on the week.”
Ezekiel Elliott vs James Conner 43:19
- Zeke Elliott is the preferred choice over James Connor, especially in PPR formats.
- James Connor has outscored Zeke in the last three weeks, but Zeke is generally more consistent.
“Zeke either way really, yeah I think PPR I might just take the five plus perceptions I know that Conners outscored Zeke the last three weeks.”
Heel Injuries 43:58
- Hollywood Brown has not been practicing due to a heel injury.
- Heel injuries seem to be a common issue in the NFL this year.
“Heel injuries everywhere? We’ve got heels. The heels are a problem this year.”
AJ Brown‘s Performance 44:10
- AJ Brown hasn’t scored since week 12, but it is believed he will score this week.
- There is optimism that AJ Brown will have a touchdown this week.
“AJ Brown hasn’t scored since week 12. I think he’s going to score this week.”
Week 17 Breakdown 44:24
- The matchup may impact the decision of whether to play AJ Brown.
- Philly is considered an easy matchup for all starting players.
- Goddard is also a good play.
“The fact that made that guarantee.”
Fantasy Wide Receivers 44:52
- Philly has a weak defense against fantasy wide receivers.
- Michael Wilson has had seven targets over the last two weeks.
- However, he has not caught any passes.
“There should be someone here who gets it done.”
Saints vs Buccaneers 46:27
- Tampa Bay is favored to win against the Saints.
- Derek Carr is highlighted as a streamer option.
- Camara’s performance is a question mark due to Tampa Bay’s defense.
“You know, you have Derek Carr, who Mike, you know, brought up on our.”
Tampa Bay’s Defense 48:46
- Tampa Bay’s defense has been performing well.
- Opposing quarterbacks have struggled in the last four weeks.
- Running backs have not been successful in the passing game against Tampa Bay.
“I’m just observing that right now.”
Alvin Kamara‘s Potential 49:42
- Alvin Camara is expected to bounce back after a poor performance.
- Camara’s involvement in the passing game could be crucial.
“You just have to put Alvin Camara has such a high floor on a regular week that I think you just have to put him in there.”
“Rashad White, of course. Mike Evans, of course.”
Godwin’s Challenge 50:41
- Godwin’s targets have been increasing, which makes him a challenging start this week due to the Saints defense.
- The Saints defense has given up an average of 13.8 points to opposing receivers in their last six games.
- Chris Godwin has been favored by Baker Mayfield recently, despite the low fantasy production in some games with high target numbers.
“Godwin gets all these targets, but like two of those three games where he’s had over 10 targets, he ends up wider here at 37 and 32.”
Rashid Shaheed or Chris Godwin 52:50
- In a fantasy football situation, Rashid Shaheed would be the preferred start over Chris Godwin.
- Shaheed has had a strong performance in the previous week with 82% of snaps and nine targets.
- Tampa Bay’s defense has a high rate of allowing 20 plus yard completions, which plays into Shaheed’s deep ball abilities.
“If I knew that Shaheed was in on 70 plus percent of the snaps, that would be easy. I’ll take Shaheed’s superpowers, the deep ball.”
Starts of the Week 54:03
- Patrick Mahomes is predicted to perform well against the Cincinnati Bengals due to their weak defense.
- Brock Purdy is recommended as a fantasy start despite a poor performance in the previous week.
- Derek Carr is another viable option and has performed well in the past two weeks.
“I think they’re going to figure it out against Cincinnati… I’ll be shocked if Mahomes doesn’t give you at least a couple of touchdowns with major upside potential.” “Look, San Francisco, they have the highest team employed point total of the week with 31 points.” “I’m going with Derek Carr, must-win game for the Saints. He’s produced the last two weeks.”
Chuba Hubbard, Starter of the Week 57:19
- Chuba Hubbard is recommended as the running back starter of the week.
- He has consistently been a top 24 running back and has seen significant volume with 22 opportunities per game.
- The Jacksonville Jaguars‘ run defense has been weak, ranking 29th over the past six weeks.
“Chuba’s involvement is too significant to ignore… He’s my starter the week and he’s looked good.”
DeAndre Swift against Arizona 58:06
- DeAndre Swift has impressed with his runs this season, which is unusual for him.
- Swift has a favorable matchup against Arizona.
- Arizona ranks 32nd in rushing yards allowed.
- Swift is expected to have a high workload with 20 carries, the second-most opportunities of the season.
“DeAndre Swift against Arizona…they rank 32nd in rushing yards allowed.”
James Conner against Philadelphia 59:00
- James Conner is on a hot streak, with a solid performance in recent weeks.
- Conner has a favorable matchup against Philadelphia.
- The Eagles have allowed the highest team applied point total of the year.
- Conner has had an elite workload, accounting for 33% of rushing attempts and targets in his team’s offense.
“James Conner against Philadelphia…the Eagles, you know, over the last few weeks since week 12, 24th in schedule adjusted points.”
Brandin Cooks against Detroit Lions 59:46
- Brandon Cooks is a good starting option against the Detroit Lions.
- Cooks’ offense has slowed down recently, but he has a favorable matchup.
- The Lions have a vulnerable secondary, which makes them a target for wide receivers.
- Detroit ranks 28th in yards per attempt and 29th in schedule-adjusted fantasy points allowed to wide receivers.
“Brandon Cooks against the Detroit Lions…the secondary so vulnerable you don’t run on them.”
Chris Olave against Tampa Bay 01:00:30
- Chris Olave is a solid start for fantasy football.
- Olave played through an ankle injury and is expected to have a limited workload.
- Tampa Bay has struggled against wide receivers, ranking 29th in schedule-adjusted fantasy points allowed.
- Other wide receivers have had big games against Tampa Bay, indicating a favorable matchup for Olave.
“Chris Olave last week, he gutted it out…Tampa Bay, they’re 29th in schedule-adjusted fantasy points allowed to wide receivers.”
DeAndre Hopkins against Houston 01:01:30
- Deandre Hopkins has a motivating factor in facing his former team, the Houston Texans.
- In their previous matchup, Hopkins had low stats, but the game was anomalous for the team as a whole.
- Hopkins still has value as a flex or WR3 option.
- Houston ranks 31st in schedule-adjusted fantasy points allowed to wide receivers.
“It’s the real revenge game for Deandre Hopkins…against the Houston Texans…31st in schedule-adjusted fantasy points to the wide receiver.”
Travis Kelce against Cincinnati 01:02:56
- Travis Kelsie is a recommended start at tight end.
- Kelsie and the Chiefs offense face a favorable matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.
- Cincinnati has struggled against tight ends throughout the season.
- Kelsie has been a consistent performer and is expected to thrive in this game.
“Travis Kelsie’s my start of the week at tight end…Cincinnati has been one of the worst defense against tight ends on the year.”
Trey McBride as the Arizona Cardinals‘ WR1 01:04:04
- Trey McBride is the Arizona Cardinals‘ wide receiver one.
- McBride had a decent performance in the previous week, and more is expected from him.
- Despite being classified as a tight end, McBride sees significant targets as a receiver.
- He is a good starting option, especially against the weak Philadelphia Eagles‘ defense.
“Trey McBee…the Arizona Cardinals…I expect a lot more this season.”
Eagles Defense against Wide Receivers 01:04:39
- Eagles are ranked 32nd against wide receivers.
- They allow a lot of passing attempts (39 per game).
“And the Eagles are super bad against wide receivers.”
Eagles Defense against Tight Ends 01:04:43
- Eagles are ranked 25th against tight ends.
“They’re bad against tight ends 25th.”
Eagles Main Passing Option 01:04:47
- The Eagles’ main passing option is a good target for fantasy teams.
“This is their main passing option.”
Cardinals Running Game against the Eagles 01:04:54
- Cardinals are on pace for a top five rushing attempt game against the Eagles.
“Just like the Cardinals are on pace for a top five rushing attempts against them.”
Tight End Option: Juwan Johnson 01:05:17
- Joanne Johnson is a good waiver wire pickup for those in need of a tight end.
- He has a favorable matchup and has performed well in recent weeks.
- He has a solid target share of 20%.
“And Joanne Johnson, at least the last two weeks rounding back into the form of the player that we had hoped we were going to see for the entire season.” “Joanne Johnson is your best desperation play.”
Tight End Success against Tampa Bay 01:05:22
- Tampa Bay ranks last in points allowed to the tight end position.
- Several tight ends have had success against Tampa Bay, including Kittle, Schultz, and Kraf.
- Even Evan Ingram had a good game against Tampa Bay with 10 catches for 95 yards.
“Joanne Johnson, the matchup is there since week eight Tampa Bay dead last and schedule adjusted points to the tight end position.” “Kinkade, Schultz, Kittle, Kyle Pitts, Tucker Kraft, guys that have gotten it done against Tampa Bay all with touchdowns.” “And then last week, Evan Ingram didn’t score, but 10 for 95.”
Gerald Everett as an Alternative Tight End Option 01:05:53
- If all other options are unavailable, Gerald Everett is a solid play.
- He has a good chance of scoring a touchdown.
“Like I think Gerald Everett is also a solid play should everybody be out for the Chargers.”
Retirement of Jason Moore‘s Boom Boom Kicker Segment 01:06:41
- Jason Moore is retiring his Boom Boom Kicker segment.
- He is leaving on a low note after a bad pick last week.
“Last week on the boom, boom, kicker, I’m Merry Christmas to the Notties with a lump of poo.” “So, we’ll see. Oh no. Hey, brother. Let’s see what happens.” “I’m in our show dock right now and got to the segment where boom, boom, kicker is I’m trying to get to the bottom of the show.”
Closing Remarks 01:09:10
- The show’s goal is to equip listeners with as much information as possible to make the best decisions in fantasy football.
- Every league, roster, and scoring system is different, so listeners should use the information provided to make informed choices.
“But we want to equip you with the most information you can have to make the best decision you can make to give yourself the highest odds in this game called fantasy football.” “Good luck as you head into Thursday night. I’m talking also to myself. You hope I make the right decision. I hope you do as well.”
Comments
Great episode!
Keep it up