Week 15 Waivers + Difference Makers, Playoff Bound!

Waiver Wire pickups for Week 15 and the fantasy football playoffs on today’s podcast! Find out which waiver adds could end up being playoff heroes for fantasy football teams! Plus, QB streamers, injury updates, and more. Manage your redraft, keeper, and dynasty fantasy football teams with the #1 fantasy football podcast. — Fantasy Football Podcast for December 10th, 2024.

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Summary:

Fantasy Playoffs Excitement 01:18

“It’s exciting, it’s fun to go and look at the matchup and figure out how you’re going to back your way into a championship.”

• The hosts express excitement as they enter the fantasy playoffs, a critical time for fantasy football participants. They acknowledge the thrill of viewing playoff brackets and strategizing matchups to secure a championship victory.
• The ongoing playoff discussions reflect a shared camaraderie among fantasy players, who are all navigating the highs and lows of their respective seasons.

Team Analysis and Individual Performance 03:02

“Jamar Chase is unstoppable.”

• Discussion revolves around impressive player performances, notably Jamar Chase, who is showcased as a standout athlete with remarkable statistics, including a career-high in yards. The hosts lament their lack of ownership of Chase in their leagues, showcasing the player’s high demand and value in fantasy football.
• They also touch upon the importance of a strong football team performance, as quarterback Joe Burrow‘s success is intertwined with Chase’s effectiveness, emphasizing the relationship between players in fantasy outcomes.

Trade and Contract Dynamics 06:06

“The Bengals will actually franchise both Chase and Higgins.”

• The conversation shifts to the future implications for players like T. Higgins and Jamar Chase in terms of contracts and potential trades. Insights are shared about the Bengals’ strategic decisions regarding their roster, hinting at a potential double franchise tag for both players to maintain their high-performing duo.
• There’s an examination of how franchises need to allocate funds for top players in a market where contracts can make or break a team’s ability to perform at championship levels. The historical performance of franchises plays a role in forecasting their capacity to support high salaries.

Importance of Motivation in Fantasy Football 08:41

“Motivation is very important and real in football.”

• The hosts discuss the significance of team motivation as they head into the final weeks of the season. The impact that playoff positions can have on player performances is highlighted, emphasizing that teams with locked playoff spots may rotate in younger players for experience, influencing fantasy outcomes.
• They mention the relevance of tracking player incentives and bonuses, referencing how coaches aim to achieve specific personal milestones for players within the context of a team’s objectives.

Discussion on Brock Purdy‘s Impact 10:52

“I don’t think Brock Purdy is a difference maker at the quarterback position.”

• The conversation emphasizes the uncertainty around Brock Purdy‘s ability to significantly impact the 49ers’ performance, with the team currently having only an 8% probability of making the playoffs.
• While some recognize him as a starting quarterback, there is skepticism about whether he can be considered a “difference maker” given the schedule they are facing and the overall performance of the team.
• Concerns are raised regarding the future, suggesting that without the support of key players, Purdy’s value could decrease. This draws parallels between him and other quarterbacks who have had mixed success when not supported by a strong team structure.

Evaluation of Sincere McCormick‘s Contribution 12:49

“Sincere McCormick has looked good and he’s found a lot of success.”

• Sincere McCormick, running back for the Las Vegas Raiders, is identified as a potential “difference maker” due to his impressive performance and the opportunities he has been given.
• He demonstrates strong performance metrics, making the most of his carries and showing the capability to score fantasy points, especially for teams with injury concerns at the running back position.
• His ability to perform effectively even under challenging conditions solidifies his value in the current playing landscape.

Analysis of Zach Charbonnet‘s Role 14:51

“I will say no because I think that Ken Walker will be back.”

• The discussion takes a turn towards Zach Charbonnet, projecting that his role will diminish once Ken Walker returns to the lineup.
• While Charbonnet has shown potential, his performance is affected by injuries that may lead to a decreased workload and opportunities moving forward.
• The overall sentiment is that without the opportunity for consistent play, Charbonnet may not be relied upon as a “difference maker” in the remaining season.

Adam Thielen‘s Impact and Future 16:10

“He is going to be one of the guys we’re talking probably highest about.”

• Adam Thielen‘s chemistry with quarterback Bryce Young is highlighted, showcasing his potential to be a significant player on offense.
• His consistency and reliability put him in a position to be a valuable asset, potentially attracting considerable attention in fantasy leagues.
• Observations of Thielen’s performance indicate that he remains a solid choice, especially as the team’s offensive strategies evolve.

Jordan Addison‘s Performance Metrics 17:34

“Addison has been cooking.”

• Jordan Addison‘s recent performances are examined, noting his inconsistent play but substantial contribution with multiple touchdowns in recent games.
• The discussion centers around his target share and increased involvement in the offense, raising his status as a viable option in the fantasy landscape.
• His ability to deliver substantial performances in key games distinguishes him as a player to watch moving forward.

Rome Odunze‘s Potential as a Difference Maker 19:05

“He could absolutely have a big week this week.”

• The focus shifts to Romo Dun, where potential is acknowledged, albeit with skepticism regarding stardom and overall impact.
• Despite his recent performance, concerns are raised about whether he can be confidently started, indicating that trust in his ability may not be dependable just yet.
• The sentiment suggests keeping an eye on him as a backup option, especially considering the possibility of increased opportunities if other players do not perform.

Jonathon Brooks‘ Uncertain Future 21:04

“This was a later year than last year, and it took him until week 10 to get here. It’s devastating; I feel terrible for the young man.”

• Jonathan Brooks finds himself on a timeline similar to the previous year, which is not ideal, especially given that he arrived at this point later than last season. Last year, he needed until week 10 to make significant progress, raising concerns about his recovery and future performance.
• The discussion reflects on the potential lingering impact of injuries, particularly comparing Brooks to another player, Javonte Williams, showcasing how a remarkable athlete’s career can be severely affected by injury. This brings up fundamental questions about whether Brooks can ever return to his previous level of play and whether teams will trust him going forward.
• In dynasty leagues where players are valued for long-term potential, those invested in Jonathan Brooks may feel anxious, especially since the team’s decision-makers have brought in Chuba Hubbard on a long-term basis. This change indicates a lack of confidence that Brooks will return to form, greatly diminishing his expected contribution.
• The video discusses the surprising moves made by the team, including signing Miles Sanders, highlighting that they are looking for stability in their running back situation. This signals that Brooks is not a reliable part of their future plans, making his prospects for the upcoming season bleak.

Concussion Protocol Updates on Players 22:34

“Montana is on the mend, and Kenneth Walker is undergoing additional tests on his calf.”

• As the season progresses, injuries are a significant concern for teams, particularly those vying for playoff positions. Kenneth Walker is dealing with a calf injury, and the ongoing evaluation suggests his status for the next games is uncertain, which poses a risk for fantasy teams.
• The medical updates are crucial as they dictate team strategies going forward. Specifically, it sounds ominous for Walker’s rest of the season, highlighting the potential impacts of missing key players during crucial weeks of competition.

Changes in the Rooster and Trust in Players 24:14

“Though he was pronounced dead, he was actually okay and trying to get out of the bag.”

• The metaphorical language captures the dramatic shifts in player health statuses, particularly mentioning Derek Carr‘s injury. Despite initial fear regarding the severity of Carr’s injury, the revelation that he suffered a fracture impacts how the team will proceed in the coming weeks.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of passing physicals and how contractual obligations are entwined with player health, showcasing the high stakes involved for both players and teams.
• Additionally, the updates about other players reveal a landscape in which trust and faith in individual players can shift rapidly due to injuries, leading teams to reconsider their game plans.

Running Back Depth Chart and Performance Concerns 31:02

“I personally nervous about Patrick Taylor. If he gets the opportunity, it’s not that he couldn’t perform; it’s just that he doesn’t possess elite skills.”

• The discussion initially revolves around the running back situation, particularly focusing on the performance of Patrick Taylor, who is currently fifth on the depth chart. Concerns are raised regarding his ability to perform at an elite level when compared to other running backs who have shown exceptional skills such as speed and tackle-breaking abilities.
• The uncertainty continues with players such as Alexander Madison and the potential impact of injuries forcing changes in the lineup. If Madison returns, Taylor may see limited carries, making him less desirable as a starter.
• There are also mentions of a potential rising player, Izzy, who might be favored due to his speed and fit for the team’s offensive system. The group reflects on historical instances where lesser-known players were plugged into the starting role effectively, indicating that the unknowns in the depth chart make this a complex situation for fantasy football decisions.

Fantasy Football Strategies for Playoffs 37:51

“Win one week is priority; if you need to drop someone to get someone for this week, you have to do it.”

• As the playoffs approach, the strategy shifts towards immediate impact players over insurance backs. This shift emphasizes the importance of making tactical decisions that prioritize current week performance.
• Participants recommend actively considering defenses and projecting their performance for upcoming games, highlighting that defenses can’t get injured and can provide reliable points during playoffs. They suggest that picking up a defense ahead of the competition is crucial in this stage of the season.
• The conversation outlines that players need to be ready to let go of backup players if it means securing a more favorable position for the playoffs. This pragmatic approach to managing rosters reflects the evolving nature of fantasy football as teams aim for the championship.

Player Matchups for the Coming Week 39:40

“Quinton Johnston is a much higher ceiling dart throw than other names that are dart throws.”

• The participants look into wide receiver options for the upcoming week, discussing Quinton Johnston’s potential in the context of his matchups, emphasizing his considerable snap count and opportunity to score.
• Comparisons are made between players, such as Johnston and Elijah Moore, with Johnston highlighted as having a more manageable matchup compared to Moore, who faces a tougher opponent.
• This section ultimately underscores the necessity of evaluating matchups and current form when considering players for start positions, especially during critical playoff weeks.

Analyzing Wide Receiver Options for Playoffs 40:47

“This is the type of week where I think what you need to be taking a shot at is who can go out there and get a touchdown.”

• In the playoffs, fantasy managers should prioritize players who have the potential to score touchdowns rather than focusing solely on long-term performance.
• Players like Adam Thielen and Quinton Johnston are highlighted as being in a tier of their own, as they are heavily rostered and may not be readily available.
• Should injuries occur, Rashod Bateman and Octavian Wicks are considered viable options, particularly if Wicks is able to step up against Seattle.
• Keon Coleman is mentioned as a dart throw if he becomes active, proving to be another potential touchdown source.

Assessing Playable Options and Matchups 41:46

“If you need a floor play of seven or eight points, Ray Ray McCloud represents that.”

• Ray Ray McCloud, being heavily utilized in the Atlanta offense, can offer a safe option for fantasy managers looking for consistent, lower-risk points during playoff weeks.
• Trends indicate he has received numerous targets over recent weeks, making him a reliable choice for achieving moderate scoring.
• Comparisons are drawn between Cedric Tilman and McCloud, revealing that, despite Tilman having a good target share, the ceiling for touchdowns may have shifted with his recent performance.

Tight End Recommendations for Fantasy Success 46:33

“Would you go Calcaterra from the Philadelphia Eagles or Noah Gray from the Kansas City Chiefs?”

• As the playoff push continues, the conversation shifts towards tight ends, focusing on those with high touchdown potential amidst low target shares.
• Hunter Henry and Zach Ertz are suggested as key players to look at due to their snap shares and chance for touchdowns.
• The discussion also touches on players like Calcaterra and Noah Gray, with opinions split on their upside, and concerns about consistency without a reliable quarterback.

Cincinnati Bengals vs Tennessee Titans 50:57

“The Cincinnati Bengals face Tennessee, and that’s a little bit like the Bengals’ defense, which is just not that good.”

• The match between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Tennessee Titans highlights the Bengals’ struggling defense, which has created challenges for the team this season.

Quarterback Performance Insights 53:09

“My streaming quarterback this week is Justin Herbert against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are 31st against quarterbacks and 30th in passing yards per game allowed.”

• Justin Herbert stands out as a streaming option for the week due to his solid track record, despite being banged up. He has consistently performed as a top 12 quarterback in recent games while facing a Tampa Bay defense that struggles against quarterbacks.

Analysis of Streaming Options 53:12

“It’s dangerous, but you can see the path where it works. Two of the last three weeks, he’s been a top six option in fantasy.”

• Caleb Williams is mentioned as a potential streaming option, recognizing his previous strong performances, particularly against a vulnerable Minnesota defense. Analyzing quarterback matchups can be crucial for fantasy players during the playoffs, especially targeting teams that allow substantial passing yards.

Playoff Preparation and Streaming Strategy 55:40

“In the Bryce Young era, they are favored at home by two and a half points against the Dallas Cowboys.”

• Bryce Young is highlighted as a new streaming option as the Panthers have become slight favorites against the Cowboys. This indicates a shift in his potential performance level and suggests that fantasy managers might consider him in their lineups if looking for a quarterback.

from Fantasy Footballers Podcast https://ift.tt/lYhwIc8