Auction Drafts 2024: Strategy, Preparation, Targets, and More with Chris Eibl and Adam Levitan (Episode 757)
Aug 16, 2024
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Chris Eibl, an auction draft expert, and Adam Levitan, a fantasy sports guru, dive deep into auction draft strategies for the upcoming season. They discuss budget allocation, emphasizing the 'Stars and Scrubs' approach for building strong teams. Strategies for nominations and player values are explored, including the importance of timing and psychology. Eibl also shares insights on player rankings, particularly the shifting value of key players like Devontae Adams. Whether in standard or Superflex formats, flexibility and adaptability are key to success!
Employing a flexible budgeting strategy allows auction drafters to secure top talent while still acquiring valuable depth throughout the auction.
Focusing on player tiers and observing bidding dynamics enhances decision-making, enabling drafters to capitalize on undervalued players effectively.
Deep dives
Effective Auction Strategy
A flexible budgeting approach is key for successful auction drafting. Initially, it is beneficial to allocate funds for two high-quality players, typically in the $100 to $110 range, which secures strong starters. Having a remaining budget of around $90 to $100 allows for the opportunity to bid on value players as the auction progresses. This strategy helps ensure that most of the allocated money goes to starting players, maintaining a competitive lineup while allowing for depth through undervalued picks.
Importance of Player Values
Accurately assessing player values is crucial, but it's more important to focus on tiers rather than sticking strictly to a predetermined price. During an auction, observing the bidding dynamics can provide insights into how players from various tiers are being valued compared to others. For instance, if a player like Devon HN has a set value of $33, a bidder should consider how much other comparable players are going for before committing to a bid. Understanding these trends can influence decisions on whether to pursue or avoid certain players based on their auction costs.
Navigating the Late Auction Stages
The endgame of an auction is critical for securing undervalued players that fit budget constraints. As the auction nears its conclusion, it becomes essential to have a roster of potential $1 or $2 players ready for nomination. Players that may not generate excitement, like late-round backups or lesser-known contributors, can often provide the best bang for the buck in this stage of the drafting process. Recognizing which players are less likely to attract bidding wars allows drafters to fill their rosters effectively while retaining budget for primary targets.
Stars and Scrubs Strategy for 2024
For the 2024 fantasy football season, adopting a Stars and Scrubs strategy remains relevant, especially with favorable quarterback values. By utilizing available quarterbacks in the low price range, drafters can allocate more budget towards securing elite players for key positions. Additionally, the abundance of ambiguous or split backfields presents opportunities to fill out a competitive roster without overcommitting to pricey players early. This year presents a landscape where targeting underrated players at key positions can yield significant rewards throughout the season.
How should you attack an auction draft? What is the optimal way to prepare? How can we exploit our opponents? Adam Levitan sits down with auction draft expert Chris Eibl to learn more about the format.
In this episode, we discuss:
Everything you need to know about auction fantasy football draft strategy
(1:33) - Chris’ Approach to High Stakes Drafts (3:33) - Budgeting Strategy (8:20) - How 2024 Sets Up For Roster Construction (14:41) - Early Stage Nomination Strategy (18:30) - Handling Bloating Player Values (22:41) - Chris’ Player Rank Differences (24:48) - Superflex Auctions (26:38) - Small- vs. Large-League Strategy (27:52) - Listener Questions
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