Fantasy Life With Ian Hartitz Using Data & Film to Find Top Performers for Fantasy | Talk Data to Me
Sep 12, 2025
Matt Waldman, creator of the Rookie Scouting Portfolio and a senior staff writer for Footballguys, dives into the intricate blend of film evaluation and data analysis in fantasy football. He discusses the key traits of elite running backs, such as processing speed and balance. The conversation sheds light on rookie players like Ashton Gentry and Omari Hampton, highlighting their potential despite initial struggles. Waldman also covers the importance of ball security and the dynamics between star players and team balance, offering insights that can help fantasy managers spot undervalued talent.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Processing + Footwork Drive RB Success
- Fast processing and confident decisions are core to an effective NFL running back's vision and play.
- Footwork must tightly couple to processing because it's hard to fix late in development.
Indirect Contact Predicts Longevity
- Contact balance on indirect hits separates long-term contributors from short-lived backs.
- Many backs who can't bounce off glancing contact rarely sustain starter-level fantasy production.
Don’t Overreact To One Bad RB Game
- Don't judge a rookie RB by one low yards-per-carry game when volume and context show trust.
- Hold or trade only if line play or volume changes materially against the back.
