Week 17 Season 2 Episode 20

It's week 17 and the zombies are coming.  With teams starting to protect their stud payers for the playoffs it makes your decisions hard if you have a fantasy championship game to win.  We'll let you know the strategies for choosing who to start so your line up doesn't end up riding the pine.  For those of you playing for a draft pick, or wondering if your favorite pro team is going to take a dive, we lay it all out on the table.
Don't forget to tune in next week for our awards show, the Studlies.

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Week 16 Season 2 Episode 19

Week 16 is headed your way, and you better be coming with your best line up.  Fill those gaps with our starts to ensure you aren't leaving any points on the bench.  Hear who EZ and Ginny bench because those players won't be earning their keep on Sunday.  Ginny steps up to the line with his gamble and actually whacks someone this week.

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Week 15 Season 2 Episode 18

Whoa!  Where did the season go?  Your fantasy season is in the middle of the play offs, but you've still got decisions to make about your line up.  Get our starts and sits as well as the prime information on who's a waste of roster space.  Our mailbag wants to know if the Colts have fallen apart, we let you know the answer, all in this episode of Fantasy 30.

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Week 14 Season 2 Episode 17

It's that time of year when our host EZ channels his inner Jim Mora, using phrases like "playoffs, playoffs" on the air.  It is also a week where EZ needs to apologize for his own "poo-poo performance" for his picks in week 13.  The good news however is Mr Krez is back in the co-pilot seat and his super week 13 picks saved the day.  Now as you get ready for the playoffs, listen to our guys get you ready for your run to the money.  Consistency wins championships, so stay consistent.  Listen to the Fantasy 30.  Win another title.


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Week 13 Season 2 Episode 16

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!  With only 1 week left in the regular season, the Fantasy30 knows we all have so much to be thankful for.  We hope that we made you thankful that you were loyal listeners this year, as you prepare for the fantasy football playoffs.  We know a QB who has lots to be thankful for this week, as we celebrate a new Hot Shot of the Week.  We also know that as the regular season comes to a close, many of you have a lot on the line this week, and we plan on making you thankful that you listened this week too.

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Week 12 Season 2 Episode 15

Are you on the bubble of your league’s playoff scenario?  Are you already planning for next season?  Don’t fret because we have got you covered.  Tune in this week to celebrate a youngster, and listen to EZ eat some crow after calling a sit on a superstar last week.  We would like to welcome back all of our friends to another great episode of the Fantasy 30.  Ginny is back in his co-pilot chair this week, and our hosts are going to celebrate alongside many of our listeners as playoff positions start to be secured.  With only two weeks left in the fantasy regular season, playoff spots are being locked up, so make sure you have got the winning edge to get you (or keep you) on that “path to a championship”.

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Week 11 Season 2 Episode 14

There are only 3 weeks left before the playoffs, so it is time to make that final push.  Trade deadlines are upon us, so teams have to make those final moves to push themselves to the postseason.  Come check in to see what our hosts think could be on the horizon for week 11 so you know who to start and who needs to go to the bench.  For those in dynasty leagues, it is now time to decide, are you in it to win it, or is it time to sell for a shot at next year’s title.  Regardless of which camp you fall into the Fantasy 30 has you covered with the strategy you need to get ahead.

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Week 10 Season 2 Episode 13

This week we tackle a quarterback quandary in the Consigliere segment.  We Whack a long time favorite of Ginny's and honor our hot shot.  We drop some knowledge including whose hip pointer injury is going to open the door for the running back you need to start.  We also find the wide receiver match up that is going to pay dividends.

Submit a design or vote in the Fantasy Fanalytics Logo Contest.  

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Week 9 Season 2 Episode 12

Week 8 is in the books. There was a record setting performance this week amongst another group of high scores. Come see what EZ and the Ginny think of this week's production. Then listen as the guys Help get you prepared for week 9 and the rest of the season.  There is a lot to cover and if you need a boost before the home stretch, come tune in to the Fantasy 30.

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Week 8 Season 2 Episode 11

Don’t let the midseason blues get you down.  The Fantasy 30 is here to help you get through to the home stretch.  Ginny had to “go see a guy about a horse” this week, so Mr Krez steps in to sit with EZ and review all the week 7 excitement, while preparing you to make smart decision in the second half of the fantasy football season.  What to know which reliable player you should sit in week 8?  Tune in.  Want to know which players you can start in place of your Niners or Giants this week?  Tune in.  Want to know what our experts think about the potential impact of the Percy Harvin trade?  Tune in. By now you know that “consistency wins championships”, so keep on tuning in and listening to the Fantasy 30 to get the edge over your competition.

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Week 7 Season 2 Episode 10

We've got the winning formula for creating your weekly league games, and we council you on it.  We've got the Ginny's Gamble on what game to pay attention to.  We've got Starts and Sits.  And we've got laughs, all for you, if you tune in to this episode of Fantasy 30.  
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Week 6 Season 2 Episode 9

Week #6 and we are getting deep into it.   We had an off week last week, but we are ready to bounce back.  Ginny is out of hiding and bringing some deep contemplation about the season.   If you don't know how EZ feels about Tom  Brady, this episode will clear that up, and it will also answer who Ginny is not a big fan of.  Check it all out.

Follow us on Twitter for more starts and sits throughout the week.  @EZandtheGinny

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Fantasy 30 Week 5

We're back with another edition of the Fantasy 30, and this week, after Ginny's Gamble has gone bad again,
the Ginny has gone to ground. Luckily, Krez has stepped in while Ginny is hiding to provide some insightful commentary. Got your defense set?  If not check out the Consigliere. Worried about your all-stars not performing?  We've got advice for you. Know what to do with Devonta Freeman, Ben Rothlisburger, Steve Smith Sr., Lesean McCoy, or Tom Brady? We do, and we'll let you know. All this and more on this weeks Fantasy 30.
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Fantasy 30 S02-07 Week 4

Join EZ and the Ginny as they discuss week 4 preparation. These aren't the no-brainer starts and sits, these are the choice picks of deep analysis.  Besides starts and sits, find out who's dead weight on your roster and needs to go.  Fan questions and an all around good time are all taken care of on this episode of the Fantasy 30.

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Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode 06 - Week 3

A horrible technical incident has cause our show, recorded live at Beef O'Brady's at Cross Creek Commons during Monday Night Football, to be destroyed.  While you won't be able to hear EZ and Ginny's cutting edge analysis, Jason the Producer has provided all the highlights in a quick light package for you.  We intend to keep our promise of giving you the information early in the week so you can make the best decision for your team.  Take Ginny's Gamble, find out who the Hot Shot of the Week is and set your roster with Start 'Em, Sit 'Em.

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode 05 - Week 2

Week one is almost done, but EZ and the Ginny are back at work making sure you've got the information you need to make the most of your lineup for week two.  Find out just how well they did in advising your week one lineups and what moves to make, not just for week two, but the season as a whole.

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode 04 - Week 1

Its the most wonderful time of the year.  The kickoff to another football season is upon us, and of course that means it is time to go to battle against friends, family, and coworkers alike, with bragging rights and more all on the line.  Fantasy football is back!  Now you didn't think that the Fantasy 30 would let you get things started without providing you the information you need to get the season off right, and hop directly onto the "path to a championship", did you?  Of course you didn't.

EZ and the Ginny are back at it again, and this week they lay down the pre-season Hot Shot award, and also give you the key sits and starts you will need, all in advance of the opener between Green Bay and Seattle.  Listen in as the fellas talk to you about their own fantasy drafts, as well as some of the top news from around the league, and the impact it will have on you this season.

Will the Wes Welker suspension hurt your team?  What are your other options?  How about Ryan Mallett?  Should you go grab him off the wire now?  Come on in and hear the Fantasy 30 provide you answers to these key questions and more in the first regular season episode of the year.

The drafts are done, and it is time to get those line-ups set for Week 1.  Don't go into work during December wearing goth makeup and a pink frilly dress all because you lost your league again.  Now is the time to start winning.  Now is the time to get on the "path to a championship".  Now, is the time for the Fantasy 30.

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode 03 - Fantasy Draft Preview: WR & Team D

It's almost upon us... National Fantasy Football Draft Weekend that is.  By now fantasy owners everywhere are making their final preparations and draft board adjustments as all of the prep work culminates with your 2014 fantasy season draft.

Don't fret though, the Fantasy 30 has you covered.  Our hosts have already shared with you their thoughts on QBs, RBs, TEs, and Ks.  In this final pre-draft episode, EZ and the Ginny pontificate on the vales of the WRs and all of those team defense options out there.

Many of you already know how valuable the information you get on the Fantasy 30 is.  Many have shared how they utilize this information as their "secrete weapon".  Don't be left out in the cold, relying on the same tired information everyone else has.  The Fantasy 30 is the only show powered by Fanalytics, a revolutionary system which crunches numbers so you don't have to.  This information, combined with the analysis delivered by our hosts is unmatched.  So hop on in... the water is fine.  Welcome to the 2014 fantasy football season.  Welcome to the Fantasy 30.

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode 02 - Fantasy Draft Preview: QBs & Ks

EZ and the Ginny are at it again.  This time our hosts bring their unique take on the QB and K position.  Come listen as EZ shares his thoughts on where you draft a kicker in your upcoming fantasy draft.  Draft day keeps getting closer and fantasy football owners everywhere are putting the finishing touches on their draft boards as they prep for the new season.  Looking for that extra something to give you the edge this season?  Come listen to the Fantasy 30 where you get just what you need to hop on that "path to a championship" nice and early this year.

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode 01 - Fantasy Draft Preview: RB & TE

As the boys of fall start to take the field, our boys of fall hit the airwaves again to kick off a brand new season of the Fantasy 30.  Our hosts EZ and the Ginny have returned and they kick off this second year assisting you in your draft prep.  This weeks show focuses on the must have at the RB and TE position, so as you start to prepare your draft board, come listen to the guys and get ready to dominate.  It is never too early to get on the path to a championship, so come get a winning mindset, with the Fantasy 30.

EZ Does It - 2014 Final Mock Draft

The folks here at the Fantasy 30 are saddened to announce that due to scheduling issues with the studio, the previously promised 2 round mock draft with trades, that EZ and Ginny promised during their last episode will unfortunately not be happening.  As sad as we are about this, we are thrilled to have one of our hosts, EZ, post his final two-round mock with trades right here for you to all read.  

As many of you know, prior to joining the Fantasy 30, EZ was the main contributor to EZ Football Futures. There, EZ analyzed the incoming draft prospects, and was well known for putting out multiple mock drafts each year.  Since coming over to the Fantasy 30, EZ has been much more focused on Fantasy Football, but old loves never die, and EZ was more than happy to bang out this mock for us.

We know the written articles are not as well liked as the shows, and again, we are sorry for not being able to do the show as promised tonight, but we really do hope you enjoy this mock.

1.       Atlanta Falcons via Houston – Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina

Good trades work out for both sides, and this one does exactly that.  Thomas Dimitroff and his Falcons are a very good team, who landed the 6^th overall pick because of injuries last year.  They are not very far away from being a great team, so dealing away number 6 and a 3^rd rounder this year, along with their first in 2015 (which could be a very late first) to land the best player in this draft, and a once-in-a-decade prospect is a worthwhile risk.  The Texans land more picks, and get to still pick in the top 10 this year, so this works for them too.

2.       Cleveland Browns via St Louis – Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson

Another pick, another trade.  St Louis is a team with options, but Les Snead’s first choice will be to trade this pick.  The buzz in recent weeks is that Watkins could go to the Rams at 2.  This should make Cleveland nervous enough to pull the trigger on this deal.  The Browns will send the fourth overall selection in this draft and their first round pick in 2015 to St Louis for the right to take Sammy Watkins.  Watkins immediately establishes this Cleveland receiving corps as one of the league’s best.  Paired with Josh Gordon, and TE Jordan Cameron, the Browns will have the ability to score.  Now if only they had the QB of the future…

3.       Jacksonville Jaguars – Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo

The Jags need to land a QB in this draft, but as I have been saying all off-season, I am not in love with any of this year’s group.  I do however love the prospects of Khalil Mack.  He is the top LB prospect in this class, and with the way Gus Bradley can dial up pressure, I think this is a perfect match.  The Seahawks are where Bradley made his bones, and they proved this year you can still win championships with great defense.

4.       St Louis Rams via Cleveland – Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn

After adding more firepower by moving down two spots, the Rams still land their top target in Greg Robinson.  On my board, I have Texas A& M product, Jake Matthews, rated a smidge higher than Robinson, but it is my understand that the Rams do not.  Robinson has exceptional athletic ability for an o-lineman, and has all of the attributes scouts want to see.  Although I think Matthews is more polished, I think Robinson has the bigger upside.

5.       Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Oakland – Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M

With the board falling like this, Oakland is left in prime position to make some moves.  Teams a little later in the round are starting to zero in on their target, and many are starting to get nervous that their guy won’t be there for them.  The Bucs are definitely in this position.  Fearful that the Raiders will take their guy, the Bucs pony up their seventh overall in this draft and add the fifth pick in the third round this year to move up two spots and secure Evans.  Although Watkins is the top wide out in this class, Evans is not far behind, and he still has more development time in front of him. The Bucs need weapons, and Evans brings that dimension to the offense.

6.       Houston Texans via Atlanta – Blake Bortles, QB, UCF

The Texans need a new signal caller, and although he is not the top rated QB on my board, I think he is the best fit for a Bill O’Brien offense.  There are questions about all of the QB prospects in this class, but O’Brien was part of a staff that turned a 6^th round pick with all kinds of questions into a hall-of-famer (Brady).  Adding two additional picks by trading down will also help Houston fill other needs. 

7.       Buffalo Bills via Tampa through Oakland – Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M

After trading down from 5 to 7, Oakland again slides down the board, this time netting the 9^th overall pick and the 9^th pick in round three from Buffalo.  With all of their needs, this is a sound strategy for Oakland, and for Buffalo, it puts them in position to address their biggest need, OT, with the most pro-ready prospect at the position.  Matthews has the skill set, mental makeup, and pedigree to be a stalwart at the position for the Bills for the next decade, so the move up is well worth the price.

8.       New York Giants via Minnesota – Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan

With both Robinson and Matthews gone, the New York Giants are going to be compelled to move up the board here to ensure they still land one of this draft’s three premier OTs.  Although Lewan is not rated as highly as either Robinson or Matthews, he is still a very good selection for the G-Men, who learned last year that an aging line can really impact a team in so many ways.  If the Giants want to put last year behind them, and help Eli resurrect his play, they have to keep him safe, and Lewan is a beast who immediately steps into this line-up and makes them better.  The 12^th pick in this round, and the 10^th in the 3^rd is a worthy price to pay to Minnesota for this opportunity.

9.       Oakland Raiders via Buffalo – Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State

After two moves downward which netted them two additional third round picks, Oakland is still in great position to address one of their most significant areas of need.  Justin Gilbert is the top corner on the board this year, and he can immediately step in as a starter in Oakland.  With the extra two picks they received in this very deep draft, Reggie McKenzie can continue to add young talent to fill in some of the holes and be mentored by some of the veterans brought in during free agency.

10.   Detroit Lions – Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State

Most mock drafts show the Lions adding Justin Gilbert at this pick, but in our scenario he is already gone.  In this draft that is not an issue at all.  If Gilbert is the best in this class, a very close second is Dennard.  Dennard is a physical corner who can press at the line, and will be a very welcome addition to a Detroit secondary that faces Aaron Rogers and Jay Cutler twice each year.

11.   Tennessee Titans – Anthony Barr, LB, UCLA

The Titans are a football team that is still building, but adding a piece like Anthony Barr will most certainly speed the process up a bit.  Barr is a versatile outside backer who can both rush the passer and drop into coverage. He is also still developing at the position as he spent his first two years in college playing running back.  Barr has all of the athletic tools coaches look for, and he has a great disposition and the desire to be great.

12.   Dallas via New York Giants through Minnesota – Aaron Donald, DT, Pitt

Jerry Jones has never been shy about moving up and down the draft board to land his guy, and this year they deal their first rounder (number 16 overall) and the fourteenth pick in round 3 to Minnesota, who opts to slide back a second time.  The Boys are targeting Aaron Donald, and with good reason.  For a team like Dallas, who had so much trouble up front last year, they need a guy like Donald.  He is the most accomplished DT in this class, and he has a motor that just doesn’t quit.  In new DC Rod Marinelli’s system, Donald fills that 3-technique role that is so key to defensive success.

13.   St Louis Rams – Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama

The Rams already added Greg Robinson earlier in the draft, and they also added an additional first rounder next year to boot.  This is a good team, and they are getting better quickly.  Now they can focus on adding another defensive playmaker to their squad.  Ha Ha Clinton Dix is a classic deep safety, with excellent ball skills, and who can make tackles too.  With the other young, talent pieces in this secondary, they will put some pressure on the other guys in the toughest division in football.

14.   Chicago Bears – Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State

It is my belief that the Bears really covet Aaron Donald, but with Dallas leapfrogging them to land the standout DT, Chicago is left to look at plan B.  The good news here is that plan B is a very good option too.  Timmy Jernigan was the best defensive player on the national champion Seminoles this year, and he has the ability to come into Chicago and make this defense better.  There are some questions about Jernigan, but he holds the number two spot amongst DTs on my board for a reason.

15.   Pittsburgh Steelers – CJ Mosley, LB, Alabama

When Pittsburgh comes on the clock, they will have some options, as they uncharacteristically have some holes on their defense.  This pick comes down to a decision between corner and inside linebacker.  With the exceptional depth at the corner position, and the lack thereof at inside backer, Pittsburgh opts to add the best ILB in Mosley now, and address corner later.  Mosley is a playmaker, who led one of the nation’s best defenses.  Mosley has an attitude that will fit well with the blue-collar mentality of the Steel City faithful, and I think he becomes an instant impact player for Dick LeBeau’s defense.

16.   Minnesota Vikings via Dallas – Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville

After extensive visits with Bridgewater, I think the Vikes really like the Louisville product.  Much has been made about his plummeting stock, but I still see him as one of this draft’s best QBs based on what he brings to the table.  Minnesota ran a risk in losing him with the double trade back, but this risk pays off for the Vikes, and they get some additional trade assets in the process too.

17.   Baltimore Ravens – Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville

With this pick, the Ravens will make Calvin Pryor the second straight Cardinal to be drafted.  Pryor is the only other safety on my board with a round 1 grade, and his penchant for big hits will be a big hit with the Baltimore fans.  Adding him across from last year’s first rounder, Matt Elam, gives the Ravens a pair who could cornerstone their next great defense, and get them back into the playoffs again in a division which is ripe for the taking.

18.   New York Jets – Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina

If this scenario come to fruition, the Jets will toy with the idea of trading down here, but ultimately decide that with the wide receiver depth in this class, they can really put some weapons around young Geno Smith if they grab a wide out later, and Ebron here.  Eric Ebron is the best TE in a very thin TE class.  He is a very god downfield receiver, and has a lot in common with Jimmy Graham, one of the best in the business today.  Giving Smith a big, fast target who will create matchup problems for the defense can only help him in his development, which of course helps the whole team.

19.   Miami Dolphins – Zach Martin, OT, Notre Dame

In retrospect, considering all of the locker room issues the Dolphins faced last year, their on-field performance was actually quite good.  With those issues addressed, the Phins can focus on their other glaring issue, keeping Ryan Tannehill upright.  They added Brandon Albert in free agency to man the LT post, and now they can tab Golden Domer, Zach Martin to be the other bookend.  Martin is a very good football player, and just as important for this ball club, he is a great locker room guy too.

20.   Arizona Cardinals – Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M

With where the Cards are slotted to pick, they have no expectation of a star player being available to them.  Despite it not being a position of need, the Cards are still presented with the opportunity to add, arguably this draft’s biggest “star”, in Johnny Football.  Carson Palmer is the incumbent, but how much time does he really have left?  Letting him mentor the Heisman trophy winning QB is a perfect scenario for the Cardinals, and too good to pass on.  Johnny’s ability to put buts in seats won’t hurt either.

21.   Carolina Panthers via Green Bay – Marquis Lee, WR, USC

Had Marquis Lee been able to come out one year ago, he would have been the top receiver in the draft.  Unfortunately for him, he couldn’t, and his production fell off this past year due to issues the Trojans had at the QB position.  I see Lee as the third best prospect amongst the receivers, and I think the receiver hungry Panthers do too.  This is why they would be willing to deal their 28^th picks in both the first and third round to Green Bay to get him.

22.   Philadelphia Eagles – Odell Beckham Jr, WR, LSU

When you have a draft as deep at a position as this year’s class of wide outs is, it won’t worry a team like the Eagles when the Panther trade in front of them to grab one.  In this case, with Lee gone, the Eagles can still be very successful by landing a kid like Odell Beckham Jr, who can step in and start helping the team forget all about DeSean Jackson.  Philly will have an exciting offense, especially with having added Darren Sproles this offseason, but they will need more weapons on the outside, and Beckham will be just that.

23.   Kansas City Chiefs – Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State

And the run on wide receivers continues, and rightfully so.  Not only is this a talented, deep class at the position, but these teams are in need of additional help in the area too.  For the Chiefs, they have to give Alex Smith some additional weapons to throw to.  Sure Jamaal Charles is fantastic, but with no passing attack, how long will that last?  Further, shutting down this passing game is as simple as covering Dewayne Bowe, and as his fantasy owners saw last year, that can be done.  Cooks is an immediate upgrade over anything else on the roster right now, and can be penciled in as a day 1 starter.

24.   Cincinnati Bengals – Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri

The Bengals are a team on the cusp.  Unfortunately for Bengals fans, they feel this has been the case for a few years now, and they are starting to become impatient.  I see the Bengals with lots of talent, but they have very little depth.  This is a team that could go in just about any direction with this pick, and still get value.  As such, I see the choice as Kony Ealy.  He not only is ne of the highest rated player left on the overall board, but with Michael Johnson having left as a free agent, he can soften that loss measurably.  Ealy has a knack for getting at the passer, and his skills will fit in nicely with the pieces already in place.

25.   New Orleans Saints via San Diego – Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State

The folks in the front office of New Orleans are pretty smart, and they know that at this point in the first round there could be a run on corners.  The biggest need for the Saints is at corner, and I suspect that based on what is left on the board, they would be willing to trade with corner needy San Diego, and jump corner needy Cleveland to secure their guy.  Sure, giving up a first and a third in this year’s draft is not cheap, but it gets them Bradley Roby, who many have rising up draft boards quite quickly.

26.   Cleveland Browns – Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech

After trading up to add Watkins with their first pick, the Brown can now sit tight and let the draft come to them.  Sure they need a QB, but with the top three already gone, and another pick coming at the top of the second, I would wait, and instead address another need.  I have long sang the praises of Joe Haden as one of the best corners in the league today, but they need another talent opposite him.  Fuller is a man on the rise.  He played against top talent in the ACC, including the aforementioned Watkins, and he did very well.  With Watkins and Fuller, Cleveland is on the rise.

27.   San Diego Chargers via New Orleans – Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame

When the Bolts got onto the clock two picks ago, they were torn between Roby and Nix.  Needing help at both spots, they instead decided to let the Saints trade up, and they would likely be assured at least one of their two targets would still be there.  In this case, that is exactly what happened, and as a result, Nix becomes a Charger.  His size in the middle will be a great asset to this team, as he is a classic space eating, 0-technique DT.  He will definitely make it hard to run against the Bolts next year.

28.   Green Bay Packers via Carolina – Cyrus Koundijo, OT, Alabama

With the Pack having traded down and added more draft assets, they are still in position to land a guy who would have been a little bit of a reach at 21.  Later in the round Koundijo provide more value.  The Alabama product has excellent feet, and move into position very well.  He needs to build more upper body strength though, and he need to learn how to create some punch at the point of attack.  The coaching staff in Green Bay is quite good though, and they will help bring him along nicely.

29.   New England Patriots – Ra’Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota

Some coaches have an affinity for a specific type of player.  In New England, that type of player is big, mountain sized players.  Hageman is nothing if not big.  In fact his mammoth size, and gifted agility for  giant of his size make him the perfect fit in a Bill Belicheck defense.  Sometime, you have the perfect match of player to system or player to coach.  This is one of those times.

30.   Jacksonville Jaguars via San Francisco – Zach Mettenberger, QB, LSU

Inevitably, every year we see a team picking early in the second get antsy, and trade back into the first to grab a QB.  This year will be no different, and with QB hungry Cleveland picking in front of them, I see the Jaguars jumping back into the first to land their signal caller.  Chad Henne is a nice piece, but he is not starter material.  Mettenberg is.  Mettenberger is a classic pocket passer with a good enough arm to make all the throws.  He faced some of the stiffest completion in the collegiate ranks playing in the SEC, and would immediately join Khalil Mack as the new faces of the franchise.  The Niners like to add picks, and for this deal, they would get Jacksonville’s 2^nd and 3^rd round picks this year.

31.   Oakland Raiders via Denver  - Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia

Another pick, and another trade.  After trading down two time earlier in the round, the Raiders now revese direction, and this time give up their 4^th pick in round 2, and their seventh pick in round 4 to move back into the first and land OT Morgan Moses from Virginia.  Moses was very successful in college, and performed very well at the Senior Bowl, earning him the late round 1 grade.  With Oakland having many needs, Moses could immediately step in to replace Jared Veldheer, who was inexplicably allowed to escape via free agency. 

32.   Seattle Seahawks – Joel Bitonio, OL, Nevada

Winning the Super Bowl last year earned the Seahawks the right to make the final selection on Thursday night.  This obviously is a very good football team, but they still have the need to keep moving forward.  The biggest asset that Joel Bitonio brings to the table is his ability to play all three o-line positions, and it will be this versatility that will lead Seattle to closing out day 1 by calling his name.

33.   Houston Texans – Stephon Tuitt, DE, Notre Dame

The advantage of picking first on day two is that you have all night to marvel at some of the guys who are unexpectedly still available.  In this scenario, names like Ryan Shazier, Xavier Sua-Filo, Dee Ford, and this guy, Stephon Tuitt all make the list.  On day one we had Houston taking their QB of the future.  Now on day 2, they can put the focus on the defensive side, and add the best 3-4 DE still available.  Tuitt is a sizable DE, and he can both seal the edge, and pressure the QB from this position. 

34.   Washington Redskins – Jimmy Ward, S, Northern Illinois

Thanks to making a trade to land RG3 2-years ago, the Skins were again without a first round pick, making this their first selection.  Lucky for them, this is a very deep draft.  The Skins changed coaches this year, and they already made a splash signing former Eagle, DeSean Jackson, to a shiny new deal.  Now with this pick they can address their shaky secondary with safety Jimmy Ward.  Ward is a valuable addition here, he has exceptional coverage ability, and with this pass happy offense, Ward would allow the defense to avoid 1^st down nickel packages against the offense on 11-package, 3-wide sets.

35.   Cleveland Browns – Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State

It has been no secret that the Browns have coveted Derek Carr, possibly more than any other QB in this class.  With three picks early in this draft, the Browns have done a great job of working their board to get their targeted guys.  First Watkins, then they added Fuller, now they get Carr.  No doubt with the talent already present in this organization, new GM Ray Framer will have a lot of folks singing his praises.

36.   Denver Broncos via Oakland – Jason Verrett, CB, Texas Christian

After trading back from round 1, the Broncos are in a great position to go in just about any direction with this pick.  Yes the team did add Aquib Talib at the corner position this offseason, but I still think this is one of this team’s biggest need areas.  Another option would be ILB, but I am not sold on any of the remaining ILBs being a value selection at this time.  Instead, I see the team adding the diminutive, yet lionhearted Jason Verrett with this pick.  He immediately brings depth in a secondary which will be facing non-stop aerial attacks all year against teams just looking to keep up.

37.   Atlanta Falcons – Deone Bucannon, S, Washington State

The Falcons made the biggest splash in round 1, trading up to the top spot to grab Clowney.  Having filled their pass rush need, Atlanta is now free to grab Bucannon who will be an immediate asset to this secondary.  A 4-year starter, and 3-year captain for the Cougars, Bucannon has both the physical ability and leadership needed to thrive in Atlanta.

38.   Minnesota Vikings via Tampa Bay – Dee Ford, DE, Auburn

Both the Bucs and Vikes were active during the first round, and now they get together here in the second round and reach an agreement.  The Vikes send Tampa their second and fifth round picks in this draft, and then they land the potentially dominant Dee Ford from Auburn.  Ford is a high quality pass rusher off the edge, and considering Minnesota parted ways this offseason with pass rusher extraordinaire, Jared Allen, they will need Ford to be at his best.

39.   San Francisco 49ers via Jacksonville – Ryan Shazier, LB, Ohio State

Ryan Shazier has the talent to go 10-15 picks earlier than this on draft night, however, due to a confluence of circumstances, he is still on the board with the Niners on the clock here for their first selection of the 2014 draft.  With the well chronicled troubles facing Aldon Smith, the San Fran brass has to be looking at a replacement.  The fact that the Buckeye fell to them after amassing more picks through trading down is quite fortunate for them.

40.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Minnesota – Jack Mewhort, OT, Ohio State

Tampa added back some of what they gave away on day 1 with their trade back here in the second round.  Now they make their move to add Mewhort to bolster their rickety o-line.  Some may argue that one of the QBs remaining should be their target, and it very well could be. Still, I subscribe to the old adage that all QBs look the same while laying on their backs, and without an o-line, it won’t matter much who is under center this year.

41.   Buffalo Bills – Xavier Sua Filo, OG, UCLA

On the Fantasy 30 this week, I slotted Sua Filo to the Panther at the end of round 1.  Here we are in the middle of round 2 and he is still on the board.  What happened? Nothing Sua Filo had any control over.  Other moves resulted in this talented guard to still be available, and no one will be happier than the Bills.  Last year they invested in their QB of the future, EJ Manuel.  Now they need to keep him safe.   Matthews in round 1, and Sua Filo in round 2 may not be “sexy” picks, but this could not have worked out any better for the Bills.

42.   Tennessee Titans – Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State

This offseason the Titans parted ways with their top RB, Chris Johnson.  Although Shonn Green and Jackie Battle are nice pieces, they are not feature back material.  There is not a running back worth taking in round 1 this year, but Hyde is definitely second round material.  After addressing defense during the first round, Hyde make perfect sense here in the second.

43.   New York Giants – Kyle Van Noy, LB, Brigham Young

In round 1 the Giants were bold in moving up the board to grab their newest OT, Taylor Lewan.  Now they sit tight, and are in a great position to add another guy who could be in their starting lineup sooner than later.  Van Noy is a very good linebacker and I think he fits the Giants system quite well too.

44.   St Louis Rams – Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State

The Rams had the benefit of multiple day 1 selections, and they made the most of them, adding both Robinson and Clinton Dix, while securing an additional first rounder next year too.  Now they can go in just about any direction they’d like.  Kelvin Benjamin is a raw, unfinished talent at wide out, who was whispered to be in first round discussions.  Now here in the mid second, he is a steal, and with his size paired with the speed of guys like last year’s choice, Tavon Austin, Bradford will have no excuse to not put up exceptional numbers this year.

45.   Detroit Lions – JaWuan James, OT, Tennessee

The Detroit Lions are a football team with a lot of talent on offense, but they still have some work that can be done up-front.  I don’t know that Richardson would step in as an immediate starter, but he is a talent who would see the field during 2014.  Detroit addressed their biggest need in the first with Dennard, but now they have to get better in the trenches if they want Stafford to take that next step in his maturation.

46.   Pittsburgh Steelers – Lamarcus Joyner, CB, Florida State

As I mentioned earlier, this was Pittsburgh’s plan.  Add Mosley in round 1, and the best available corner in round 2.  Lemarcus Joyner is a very good corner, who has the added benefit of being someone who could play safety too.  With the again, slower players in the Pittsburgh secondary today, Joyner provide immediate benefit, and would even allow for a possible switch of Ike Taylor to safety full-time.

47.   Dallas Cowboys – David Yankee, OG, Stanford

The Cowboys are the NFL’s perennial 8-8 team.  If they are going to improve on that they will have to get better in both trenches.  With their day 1 addition of Aaron Donald they have addressed the defensive side of the ball.  Now with this pick they add David Yankee, the accomplished guard from Stanford to aid on the offensive side of the ball.  Yankee is a skilled, experienced player, and will be a welcome addition to the Dallas family.

48.   Baltimore Ravens – Trent Murphy, DE, Stanford

Although they won the Super Bowl only two years ago, this team has some holes to fill.  Having already added prior to the secondary, they continue to rebuild this defense.  This time they add Trent Murphy from Stanford.  Murphy is a solid DE, he has enough size to hold up in a 3-4, and he will immediately become part of the rotation with Baltimore.

49.   New York Jets – Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana

The Jets came into the draft with real needs at the skill positions.  They intended to add a receiver in the first round, but were lucky to be in a position to grab a potential franchise TE instead.  Now in the second round, they are luck again.  Cody Latimer, who is very athletic, and has great size too, is still on the board.  Some experts believe that Latimer is a first round talent, so for the Jets to come away with him in round 2 is real value.

50.   Miami Dolphins -  Trevor Reilly, LB, Utah

The addition of Zach Martin to help the o-line in round 1 was a must, but the Phins have opportunities on the defense as well.  Last year they added a lot of free agents to help at linebacker, by they still have real opportunity there.  Trevor Reilly is a good linebacker who cover ground well and can put some pressure on at the edge.  If Martin and Reilly both reach their potential, the Dolphins could become a very good football team.

51.   Chicago Bears – Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida

The Bears made great strides a year ago on the offense, but their defense did not play up to par.  They need to be better against both the run and the pass.  Jernigan will aid against the run, and now Roberson can come in to help against the pass.  The Bears still have veteran Peanut Tillman in their secondary, and he can serve as an excellent mentor to the young Gator.  Roberson has the tools, and with the right time to develop, he could be very good.

52.   Arizona Cardinals – Jaylen Watkins, CB, UF

After their first round curve ball named Johnny Football, the Cards still have to address some of their needs.    Patrick Peterson is a real stud, but Antonio Cromartie is only a stop gap.  Adding a playmaker like Jaylen Watkins could really help improve a secondary in a very tough division. 

53.   Green Bay Packers – Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State

The Pack have a roster with a lot of talent, but they lost a weapon when James Jones headed to Oakland.  Although it is not a huge need, adding Allen Robinson gives them a guy who can continue to develop and learn from guys like Jordy Nelson.

54.   Philadelphia Eagles – Stanley Jean Baptiste, CB, Nebraska

With their first round pick they Eagles worked to replace Desean Jackson.  Now they need to address their secondary which was amongst the worst in the league last year.  Stanley Jean Baptiste is a good corner who can play both man and zone well.  He can step in immediately in the Nickel role, and progress to a starter in short order.

55.   Cincinnati Bengals – Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt

After addressing a replacement for Michael Johnson, with Kony Ealy in the first round, the Bengals can now put an effort into adding an alternate target to pull some attention off AJ Green.  Sanu is part of the receiving corps, but he still has room to grow, and has to stay healthy.  Adding a talent like Matthews, who has an great pedigree as well (cousin of Hall-of-Famer, Jerry Rice) could be a nice pairing.

56.   San Francisco 49ers – Telvin Smith, LB, Florida State

Don’t read too much into the fact that the Niners exercised their 5^th year option on Aldon Smith.  The talented but often troubled all-pro will likely not be in San Francisco for long.  Coach Jim Harbaugh will still have a talented defense without him, but adding a young Telvin Smith to the defense will soften the loss.

57.   San Diego Chargers – Bashaud Breeland, CB, Clemson

The Bolts had real needs at both DT and at corner.  With their selection of Louis Nix, they found their help at DT, and now they can add the top corner still on the board.  Breeland was the top corner on a very talented Clemson team.  He played against great competition and always held his own.  If he can grow and develop with the Bolts, he will be a force in the starting lineup before long.

58.   New Orleans Saints – Marcus Martin, C, USC

This offseason, the Saints let go of their starter at center.  Marcus Martin is the best center in a very thin center group.  To be able to land the talented Trojan here will be of value to the Saints offense and Drew Brees.  Martin is not a plug-and-play lineman, but he will have a good group around him, and one of the top coaching staffs in the game.

59.   Indianapolis Colts – Terrance Brooks, S, Florida State

Thanks to the acquisition of Trent Richardson mid-season, this will be the first time the Colts will be on the clock in this draft.  Although this could leave them a little short on draft day, the Colts are still expected to be one of the best teams in the AFC this season.  They don’t have many holes, but there is definitely room for improvement at safety after losing Antoine Bethea in the offseason.  Brooks won’t replace Bethea right away, but he does have the upside to develop into a very good player in a few years.

60.   Carolina Panthers – Billy Turner, OT, North Dakota

Not too many football draft prospects come from North Dakota, but Billy Turner is legit.  He can play against the better competition, although it could take him a little time to transition.  For the Panthers, they need to get more talented up front, and Turner will give them the opportunity to do that.

61.   San Francisco 49ers – Donte Moncrief, WR, Ole Miss

After trading out of round 1, adding more assets, and then adding to the secondary, the 49ers now can add another piece to the arsenal of weapons on the offense.  Donte Moncrief is starting to move up draft boards, although I have been high on him for some time.  I think with the talent around him, and no pressure to be a difference maker on day 1, Moncrief will have the time to continue to develop, and will be a nice complementary piece, until he is ready to step in for the aging Boldin completely.

62.   Oakland Raiders via New England – Aaron Murray, QB, Georgia

After moving all around the board earlier in the draft, and adding assets at multiple positions, the Raiders still find themselves missing their QB of the future.  Well consider that need now met too.  The Raiders, feeling the pressure, deal the third pick in the third round of this draft, plus their 4^th round pick in next year’s draft to the New England Patriots for the rights to move up to this spot and take the signal caller from Georgia.  I really think in 5 years time, Aaron Murray will be looked at as the best NFL QB from this class.  He is a very smart QB, who knows how to win football games.   With this draft haul, the Raiders would be a team on the rebound.

63.   Denver Broncos – Chris Borland, LB, Wisconsin

In my book, Borland has a very early third round grade, but with the lack of depth at inside backer in this draft, the need of the Broncos at the position, and how late we are in round two, I feel it would be a safe spot for the defending AFC champs to add him.  Borland is a tackling machine, and with some added size, he could become an excellent defender at the next level.

64.   Seattle Seahawks – Louchiez Purifoy, CB, Florida

As has become typical of the Seahawks, they simply draft guys who fit their system, even if experts call it a “reach”.  Purifoy is that type of player.  His skills fit very well with the defensive scheme that the Hawks run and will be able to contribute on special teams as well.  Considering they lost some depth at the corner position this offseason, I like this fit even more.  Most, including me, would say picking Purifoy here is a bit above his range, but, the defending Super Bowl champs did not earn that title by worrying about what others think.

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode C - Draft Preview 3

And the third installment of the Fantasy 30 draft preview has arrived.  Our hosts, EZ and the Ginny take you through the remaining picks in the first round (21-32), and they share with you what they would do in the role of GM for each team.

As usual, the fellas discuss potential fantasy impact of these selection, and as usual the banter is quick, witty, and informative.  In addition to finishing this draft preview show, the guys talk about the extra bonus preview show which will be recorded this week before the draft.  This extra show should be fun and exciting, and they will tell you all about it before they sign off. 

If you haven't heard the Fantasy 30 yet, come check out what you've been missing.

Season 2 Episode C - Draft Preview 3

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode B - 2014 NFL Draft Preview 2

Come listen to our hosts EZ and the Ginny as they continue to preview the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft, this time with picks 11-20.  Listen in as our guys take on the role of GM for each of the teams in this part of the first round, and listen as they make their selections on behalf of the team choosing.  EZ also covers some key draft terminology for our listeners, and Ginny skips a player entirely, calling an audible mid stream.

This is one of the most fun and entertaining shows you will hear all year from these guys.  Fantasy football may be on hiatus, but the Fantasy 30 is alive and well with another great off-season episode.

Season 2 Episode B

Fantasy 30 - Season 2 Episode A - 2014 NFL Fantasy Draft Preview 1

After a little break, our dynamic duo is back for a brand new season!  EZ and the Ginny have returned for this pre-season episode, and this one is all about the NFL Draft.  Tonight, our hosts step into the role of the General Manager for each of the NFL teams picking in the top 10.

EZ and the Ginny will tell you who they would draft if they held the reigns of that franchise. Although you have come to know our hosts as fantasy gurus, but tonight you get a first hand look into their franchise building minds as well.

Welcome back to football.  Welcome back to the Fantasy 30.

Musings - Pre Free Agency

As we now approach the free agency frenzy that will no doubt ensue as soon as the clock strikes 4pm tomorrow afternoon, it is time to take a look at what we believe are some of the most key free agents available.  Not all of these players will make a fantasy impact next year, but if we think this player could in fact have an impact on fantasy stats, we will point it out too.


1. Jairus Byrd, S  

Jarius Byrd is the prize of this year's free agent class.  In fact, he is the only game changer available on the open market this year.  He is the best safety in the league right now, and despite Buffalo's attempt to make him the highest paid safety he is looking for even more.  Word has it that he wants 9M per year, which is crazy money for a safety.  Still, in the right system, he could put them over the top.

Fantasy Impact:  Minimal.  Obviously only in IDP formats.

Good Fits: PIT, IND, SF


2. Jared Veldheer, OT

There has been a lot of chatter about the three top o-tackles who are available in this group.  Depending on whom you speak with, any one of the three could be the best.  Still, we like Veldheer as the best of the three, and here is why.  Albert is a great pass protector, but he is not much against the run, and he cannot seem to stay healthy.  Monroe has all of the tools you want in a tackle, and although he has played well, he has still had two teams already say they would rather move on without him than to pay him.  Veldheer is a giant of a man, he is young, he still has room to get better, and he will come for less money than either of the other two.  I really think Oakland was crazy to let him hit the market without even a transition tag.

Fantasy Impact: None

Good Fits: OAK, MIA, SD, ATL


3. Lamarr Houston, DE

Another odd move by the Raiders.  I do not understand how Reggie McKenzie could allow his two best young talents to hit the open market, but that is what he did.  With Michael Bennett off the board now (resigned with SEA), Houston is the top DE left (yes, even better than Michael Johnson).  He is young, very strong, and what separates him from guys like Michael Johnson is that his best football is still in front of him.  He is not a prototypical pass rusher, but he can play both the run and the pass well.  I think there will be a lot of teams looking at Houston as soon as the bell rings.

Fantasy Impact: None

Good Fits: OAK, DAL, ATL, CHI, TEN


4. Aquib Talib, CB

In a pass happy NFL, it can be argued that a shut-down corner is as important as a pass rushing DE for a defense.  That being said, Aquib Talib is the best of this year's class.  Some folks rate Alterraun Verner higher, but I think Talib's size and physical play make him the better bet in this free agent crop.  New England did not franchise him, and that is understandable based on finances, but despite some questions about his personality, they will absolutely be in the mix to bring him back for next year.

Fantasy Impact: Minimal.  Obviously, only in IDP formats.

Good Fits: NE, SF, DEN, PIT


5. Alex Mack, C

Ask any QB and they will be the first to tell you how important the Center is to them, and the football team.  They have to have the right mental makeup to make the line call, snap the ball, and still get their head up to block.  You want your center to be smart, mean, and nasty.  If they are young and durable, even better.  Alex Mack is all of the above.  Cleveland was smart to Transition Tag him, and it is exceptionally unlikely that Ray Farmer will let him get away, especially considering how much cap room the Browns have.  But word is Mack wants out, so maybe... just maybe, Farmer works a sign and trade type deal to get something for Mack while parting with an unhappy guy.

Fantasy Impact: None

Good Fits: CLE, GB, IND, NE


6. Braden Albert, OT
7. Eric Decker, WR
8. Michael Johnson, DE
9. Eugene Monroe, OT
10. Alturran Verner, CB


High Value Propositions
For one reason or another, these guys will all be available and good deliver major upside for their next teams.  Considering they will should be available for reasonable contracts, or one-year prove-it deals, this has the potential for a big payoff for the buyer.

1. Henry Melton, DT
2. TJ Ward, S
3. Linval Joseph, DT
4. BJ Raji, DT
5. Louis Delmas, S (Signed by MIA)
6. Antoine Bethea, S
7. Andre Roberts, WR
8. Rashard Jennings, RB
9. Brandon Spikes, LB
10. Jon Asamoah, G


Buyer Beware
Exactly the opposite of the guys in the previous section, these guys are likely to command a higher contract than what they deserve.  Most of these guys have already played their best football, and will likely be a regrettable contract in a season or two.

1. Jared Allen, DE
2. Justin Tuck, DE
3. Antonio Cromartie, CB
4. Darren McFadden, RB
5. Knowshon Moreno, RB


Fantasy Impacts
The guys on this list have the best chance of making a fantasy impact with their impending team change.  For some, it could be the move to turn them into fantasy relevance.  For others, expect their fantasy impact to take a dive unless they fall into the perfect system.  Until we learn where they will take snaps next year, we cannot tell which direction they will turn.

1. Darren Sproles, RB
2. Eric Decker, WR
3. Hakeem Nicks, WR
4. Ben Tate, RB
5. James Jones, WR