The "My Guy" Fantasy Football Draft With Danny Heifetz, Craig Horlbeck, and Danny Kelly. Plus, a Cleveland Sports Check-in With Garrett Bush.
Aug 30, 2023
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Danny Heifetz, Craig Horlbeck, and Danny Kelly, all contributors to The Ringer's fantasy football coverage, dive into a whimsical fantasy football draft. They discuss the risks and rewards of drafting players returning from injury while sharing their personal favorite picks. Meanwhile, Garrett Bush offers passionate insights on the Cleveland Browns, their rivalry with the Steelers, and the ups and downs of being a fan in Cleveland. Tune in for laughs, analysis, and a sprinkle of Cleveland sports history!
Tony Pollard has the potential to be a top three running back in fantasy football this year.
Jalen Hurts could be a top quarterback in NFL fantasy with his dual-threat abilities and impressive performance.
Brandon Cooks is a reliable wide receiver option with consistent solid numbers.
Michael Thomas comes with risks in fantasy football due to injury and off-field issues.
The success of the Cleveland Browns depends on the performance of DeShawn Watson and the pressure is on both him and coach Kevin Stefanski to deliver results.
Deep dives
Tony Pollard: A Fantasy Football Favorite
Tony Pollard is highly regarded as a top running back in the NFL fantasy world. He has shown great potential and performance, finishing as the RB7 last year. With an expected increase in playing time and opportunities, Pollard has the potential to finish as a top three running back this year.
Jalen Hurts: The Quarterback to Watch
Jalen Hurts is a highly anticipated quarterback in the NFL fantasy world. With his dual-threat abilities and impressive performance last year, Hurts has the potential to be a top QB this season. He has shown the ability to put up big fantasy numbers and could be a great asset to any fantasy team.
Brandon Cooks: A Reliable Wide Receiver
Brandon Cooks is a reliable wide receiver option for fantasy football. Despite playing on struggling teams in the past, Cooks has consistently put up solid numbers and finishes as a top fantasy receiver. With high yardage and touchdown potential, Cooks can be a valuable asset to any fantasy team.
Michael Thomas: A Risky Choice
Michael Thomas comes with some risks in fantasy football. After missing most of last season due to injury and dealing with some off-field issues, Thomas' value has significantly dropped. It's uncertain how he will perform this year, and there are concerns about the QB situation in the Saints as well. Fantasy managers should approach Thomas with caution.
The Cleveland Browns and the DeShawn Watson Conundrum
The Browns have a talented roster, but their success hinges on the performance of DeShawn Watson. His off-field issues and underwhelming play last season leave questions about what version of him the team will get. Fans are torn between their love for Baker Mayfield and the potential of Watson. The Browns organization believes Watson is the key to success and is putting trust in him to lead the team. However, the pressure is on both Watson and coach Kevin Stefanski to deliver results.
Cleveland's Rivalry with Pittsburgh
The rivalry between Cleveland and Pittsburgh is intense, with Pittsburgh fans often dismissing Browns fans due to their lack of success. Losing the team and watching them succeed as the Ravens added insult to injury. The constant defeats and Pittsburgh's dominance have created a sense of pity from Steelers fans towards Browns fans.
The Baltimore Ravens as a Painful Rival
The rivalry with the Baltimore Ravens is painful for Browns fans as Baltimore's success after the Browns' relocation is a constant reminder of what could have been. The Ravens quickly built a championship team with key players like Ray Lewis and Jonathan Ogden, winning a Super Bowl and solidifying their dominance. Browns fans feel the sting of seeing Baltimore's upgrade while the Browns struggled to find success.
Cleveland's Heartbreaking Sports Moments
Cleveland has endured many heartbreaking moments in sports, from the Browns' struggles and losing the team, to the Indians' close calls in the 1990s and early 2000s, to the Cavaliers' near misses before LeBron James returned. These moments have created a sense of longing and failure, making fans appreciate any glimmer of hope, such as Baker Mayfield's arrival or LeBron's championship.
The Future of the Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers face an uncertain future, but there is hope with rising star Darius Garland. They have added promising players like Evan Mobley and George Niang, but shooting and floor spreading remain concerns. The team's success will heavily depend on the development of Mobley and Garland, and how well the team performs in the playoffs.
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Danny Heifetz, Craig Horlbeck, and Danny Kelly of 'The Ringer Fantasy Football Show' for the "My Guy" Fantasy Football Draft, where they identify NFL players who fit unique categories on draft day (2:24). Then, Bill talks with Garrett Bush of the 'Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show' about the Browns, Cleveland's relationship with Pittsburgh, Browns fans' affinity for Baker Mayfield, Cavaliers predictions, and more (1:16:42).
Host: Bill Simmons
Guests: Danny Heifetz, Craig Horlbeck, Danny Kelly, and Garrett Bush
Producer: Kyle Crichton
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