Feel It or F–It 12.30.24: An RSP Cast with Bob Harris and Matt Waldman
Dec 30, 2024
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Dive into the intriguing world of sophomore slumps and the factors that drive player performance in the NFL. Discover insights on rising stars like C.J. Stroud, Caleb Williams, and Xavier Worthy, and how coaching and team dynamics impact young talent. Explore the challenges faced by quarterbacks and the significance of support structures. Plus, revisit the evolution of football hits and their implications. With a focus on emerging prospects, this conversation is packed with fantasy strategies and predictions for the upcoming season!
Sophomore slumps are often influenced by team dynamics rather than solely individual player performance, as illustrated by C.J. Stroud's challenges.
The analysis of Caleb Williams reveals that his struggles in his rookie season were largely due to external circumstances rather than his skills.
Player development is crucial for quarterbacks' success, as seen in Baker Mayfield's improvement post-Cleveland due to better support systems.
Deep dives
The Process of Rookie Scouting
The podcast discusses the ongoing process of evaluating rookies for the Rookie Scouting Portfolio (RSP). The speaker highlights that they have been reviewing a significant number of players and are approximately halfway through the assessment of receivers. They emphasize the thoroughness of their methodology, watching multiple games for each player to provide detailed evaluations. Past examples of successful players and scouting reports are mentioned to illustrate the depth of analysis included in the RSP.
Understanding Sophomore Slumps
The podcast examines the concept of sophomore slumps in the NFL, asserting that these slumps can be influenced more by team performance than by individual player shortcomings. It references players who may have excelled in their rookie year but faltered in their second year due to various factors, including external pressures and changes in support systems. An example discussed is C.J. Stroud, whose struggles in his sophomore year were attributed to a weak offensive line and injuries among key receiving targets. This emphasizes the importance of context when evaluating player performance year-over-year.
Caleb Williams and Offensive Chemistry
Caleb Williams' performance in his rookie season is analyzed, noting that while he faced challenges, including a struggling offensive line and shifting receiver availability, he showed potential. Initially viewed as a promising draft pick, the struggles of the team surrounding him didn't affect his personal abilities as much as external circumstances did. The discussion acknowledges that his production improved as adjustments were made, which reflects a common experience among rookie quarterbacks. This positions Williams as a potential value pick for future fantasy drafts despite a less-than-stellar season.
Evaluating Lad McConkie's Impact
The conversation shifts to Lad McConkie, with the speakers asserting that his emergence in the league is not a fluke but rather a testament to his skill set. They draw comparisons to past great players while highlighting his ability to perform well despite not being a traditional top-tier athlete. Additionally, they mention McConkie's rapport with his quarterback as a key factor in his effectiveness on the field. This positive analysis suggests that he could continue to excel in future seasons.
The Value of Player Development
The podcast highlights the critical importance of player development within the NFL, particularly in addressing the progression—or lack thereof—of quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield. The discussion suggests that organizations must be patient and committed to nurturing talent to optimize player potential. This is illustrated by contrasting Mayfield’s current success after leaving the Browns with his inconsistent performance during his time there. It emphasizes that receiving corps also play a significant role in quarterback success, urging teams to better understand and support their players' journeys.
A weekly phone conversation between fantasy veterans Bob Harris and Matt Waldman is a quick and dirty run-down of NFL players, units, or teams.
https://youtu.be/lWriVPciUxA
Topics
Sophomore Slumps
C.J. Stroud
Caleb Williams
Ladd McConkey
Brian Thomas, Jr.
Baker Mayfield
Xavier Worthy
George Pickens
Javon Baker
Marvin Mims, Jr.
Tre McBride
Parker Washington
Brock Bowers
Ameer Abdullah
Kenny Pickett
Saquon Barkley
Malik Nabers
Falcons Offense
Now entering its 20th season, learn more about Matt Waldman’s RSP — the most in-depth analysis of offensive skill position players available (QB, RB, WR, and TE). Or if you already know the deal, go ahead and pre-order (you know you want to) for $21.95.
Matt’s new RSP Dynasty Rankings and Two-Year Projections Package is available for $24.95
If you’re a fantasy GM interested in purchasing past publications for $9.95 each, the 2012-2024 RSPs also have a Post-Draft Add-on that’s included at no additional charge.
Best yet, proceeds from sales are set aside for a year-end donation to Darkness to Light to combat the sexual abuse of children.
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