Depending on your personal level of wit and cleverness, honing in on the best fantasy football team names for your squad(s) can be either incredibly fun or painfully awkward.
It's kind of like that first day of a new semester in college, when the professor loops around the room and asks each student to share something about themselves:
"Something unique or something you love to do". More than anything else, you don't want to be Captain Obvious, who when asked, insecurely responds with, "Um, I love to travel!"
Oh do you now? That's so unique of you! I hate bathing on the beaches of Italy and exploring the pyramids of Giza!
Choosing a fantasy football team name is just like that. When your buddy who sits in the desk ahead of yours wraps up his answer, you best be ready to speak up.
All four are off limits. The only thing being accomplished by doing any of the above, is letting your league-mates know that you, too, love to travel.
Don’t get it twisted, choosing a team name is a big deal. You live with your decision for six months, or longer if you broke rule #1.
Similar to rooting for the Broncos all season, there’s a place reserved in your heart for The Golden Taints. Might as well get a good chuckle out of it.
This year, FantasyJocks is on a mission to automate the name-game for you in 2024. Not all of these names are laugh out loud funny, but the list is enormous, so I guarantee at least one or two of them will sink your submarine.
And while we appreciate a good vulgar fantasy football name from time to time, we've tried to whittle the list down to the most creative ones we've seen over the years.
Before we get to this epic list - do yourself a favor and be sure to check out our store on your way out to grab your league a bonafide 🏆 fantasy football trophy or fantasy football draft board!
Stop passing around that cheap plastic trophy and step it up already. FantasyJocks is the Cream of the Crop for your fantasy trophy needs!
Looking for something a little more unique? See if any of these tickle your fancy.
A few of the better movie or TV inspired fantasy football team names we've seen.
For some managers, working an actual player name into their fantasy football team name is an absolute must! Keep scrolling for some of the standout player themed team names
Karen - keep scrolling. This list isn't for you. For everyone else, here are the best raunchy fantasy team names (that we can actually print!)
What did we miss? Leave a comment down below letting us know which of these fantasy football names you think is best or if you have any awesome ones to share.
We would also love to hear your funny fantasy football league names if you have a good one to share!
]]>So, you're considering switching to a 2 QB format for your fantasy football league? Congratulations, my friend! You're about to take your league to the next level.
Sure, some people may scoff at the idea of starting two quarterbacks every week, but those people are probably still using blackberries and listening to CDs. Here are just a few reasons why you should embrace the 2 QB format and then start day dreaming about what witty quarterback name you should add to your Fantasy Football Trophy this season
Let's be real, the first round of most fantasy football drafts is pretty predictable. You know the big names - Patrick Mahomes, Kyler Murray, Josh Allen - are all going to go early. But with a 2 QB format, the entire draft becomes a lot more unpredictable. Suddenly, quarterbacks who would normally be backup options become starters, and you have to decide whether to grab them early or take a chance that they'll still be there later. It's like playing a game of musical chairs, but with quarterbacks.
In a standard league, most people just draft one quarterback and then forget about it. But in a 2 QB league, you have to pay much more attention to the quarterback position throughout the season. Do you go all-in on two elite quarterbacks early, or do you take a more balanced approach and grab two mid-tier options? And what happens if one of your quarterbacks gets injured? Suddenly, you're scrambling to find a replacement on the waiver wire. It's like playing a game of chess, but with quarterbacks.
Let's face it, in a standard league, there are a lot of players who just don't matter. Your backup quarterback? Irrelevant. Your backup kicker? Who cares. But with a 2 QB format, suddenly those backup quarterbacks become valuable commodities. And if you're lucky enough to snag a backup quarterback who ends up becoming a starter, you look like a genius. It's like playing a game of... well, it's still football, but with more players involved.
Ah, trash talk. It's the lifeblood of any fantasy football league. And with a 2 QB format, there's even more opportunity for trash talk. Did someone reach for a quarterback too early? Mock them relentlessly. Did someone start a backup quarterback who put up big numbers? Let them hear it. The more quarterbacks involved, the more opportunities for trash talk. It's like... well, it's still trash talk, but with more quarterbacks involved.
At the end of the day, that's what fantasy football is all about, right? Having fun. And with a 2 QB format, there's just something inherently more fun about the whole thing. Maybe it's the added unpredictability. Maybe it's the added strategy. Or maybe it's just the fact that you get to start two quarterbacks every week. Whatever it is, it just makes the whole thing more enjoyable. It's like playing... well, it's still football, but with more enjoyment involved.
In conclusion, if you're on the fence about switching to a 2 QB format for your fantasy football league, take the plunge. Sure, there may be some skeptics out there, but they're probably still using MySpace and watching VHS tapes. Embrace the 2 QB format, and get ready for a whole new level of fantasy football fun.
Playing in a 2 QB format fantasy football league can be a bit challenging, but with the right strategies, you can dominate your league. Here are some strategies for playing in a 2 QB format fantasy football league:
Prioritize Quarterbacks Early: In a 2 QB league, quarterbacks are extremely valuable, so it's important to prioritize them early in the draft. Consider drafting at least one quarterback in the first or second round to secure a solid starter.
Get Your Second Quarterback Early: In a 2 QB league, it's important to have two solid quarterbacks to start each week. Make sure you get your second quarterback before the later rounds of the draft, as the depth of the position will be thin.
Know Your League Scoring: Understand your league's scoring system, as it may differ from standard leagues. In some 2 QB leagues, passing touchdowns are worth more than in standard leagues, which makes quarterbacks even more valuable.
Look for QBs with Rushing Upside: Quarterbacks who can run the ball have a higher floor and ceiling. Consider targeting quarterbacks like Kyler Murray, Lamar Jackson, or Josh Allen, who can both pass and run the ball effectively.
Don't Neglect Other Positions: While quarterbacks are important in a 2 QB league, don't neglect other positions. Make sure you are still drafting running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends who can contribute to your team.
Keep an Eye on Bye Weeks: With two starting quarterbacks, it's important to keep an eye on their bye weeks. You don't want to be caught without a starter during a critical week.
Consider Streaming Quarterbacks: If you don't have two solid quarterbacks on your roster, consider streaming the position. Look for matchups where quarterbacks are likely to have success, and pick up a quarterback off the waiver wire to start that week.
These are just a few strategies for playing in a 2 QB format fantasy football league. Remember, each league is different, so be sure to adapt your strategy to your league's specific scoring system and rules.
And after you take down a title, be sure to order yourself some proper hardware!
]]>We're not just a league, we're a family, right? Well, sort of. If you want to keep your league members engaged, you'll need to foster a sense of community. Encourage league members to interact with each other outside of the league platform. Create a Facebook group, start a WhatsApp chat, or for the love of Larry Fitzgerald, make a TikTok account. Host draft parties, watch parties, and other in-person events if possible.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "But R2, I don't want to spam my league members with constant updates." Fear not! There's a way to communicate effectively without becoming the most annoying person in your league. Set up a regular schedule for communication with league members. Send out weekly updates on standings, scores, and highlights. Send out reminders for upcoming events and deadlines. Just make sure to use a little bit of wit and humor in your messages. After all, no one wants to read a dry email about fantasy football. (Unless it's from Aaron Rodgers. He's probably got some good stuff to say.)
Let's face it. We all love a little competition. But sometimes, it's not enough to just play for pride. That's where incentives come in. First off - if your league doesn't have a Championship Belt or Trophy, it is bush league. Plain and simple. But you should also consider offering cash prizes for weekly or seasonal winners. Maybe a gift card to Buffalo Wild Wings? Or a framed photo of Bill Belichick smiling? You could implement a punishment for the team with the worst record. Loser has to wear a beauty sash to the next draft, anyone? Encourage friendly competition with weekly challenges and rewards. Maybe the winner of the week gets to pick the team name for the loser next week. Get creative with it, folks!
If you're going to keep your league members engaged, you'll need to keep things fresh. Experiment with different league formats, such as dynasty or auction drafts. Add new categories or scoring systems to keep things interesting. Maybe touchdowns from a left-handed quarterback are worth double? (Kidding here) Or interceptions thrown by Kirk Cousins result in bonus points? (Partially serious here) Consider incorporating a survivor pool or daily fantasy sports. Just make sure to keep it legal, because we don't need any more scandals in the NFL.
At the end of the day, fantasy football is supposed to be fun. Remember that. Encourage members to embrace the competition and enjoy the camaraderie of the league. Avoid taking things too seriously and prioritize sportsmanship and respect for other members. And let's be honest, if you're not having fun, what's the point? Go out there and win, lose, or tie, just make sure you're doing it with a smile on your face.
Now let's talk about the elephant in the room: If you play fantasy football long enough, you can pretty much guarantee that you will eventually have to deal with inactive and unresponsive league members. We all have that one person in our league who sets their lineup once a month, ignores trades, and never responds to messages. So what do you do? Kick 'em out? Shame them on the league message board? Here are some strategies for dealing with inactive or unresponsive members in your fantasy football league without losing your mind.
The Gentle Nudge: First things first, let's try the gentle approach. Send a friendly message to the inactive member and ask if everything is okay. Maybe they're going through a tough time, or they're dealing with a busy schedule. Offer to help them out with their lineup or suggest some trades that could help their team. Just make sure to use plenty of emojis to convey your friendly nature. Because nothing says "I care about you, buddy" like a smiley face with hearts for eyes.
The Public Callout: Okay, so the gentle approach didn't work. Time to bring out the big guns: public shaming. But let's not go insane here, especially if this is your co-worker in HR who you barely know outside the office. Call out the inactive member on the league message board in a lighthearted way. Maybe post a funny meme about being inactive, or write a satirical news article about their team. Just make sure to keep it playful and not too aggressive. We want to get them engaged, not drive them away.
The Bribe: If the gentle nudge and public callout didn't work, it's time to try some bribery. Offer the inactive member a prize if they start being more active in the league. Maybe a gift card to their favorite restaurant? Or a framed picture you drew of Patrick Mahomes looking like Kenny Powers? Just make sure the prize is something they'll actually care about. And hey, if the bribe doesn't work, at least you'll have a nice gift card to use for yourself.
The Ultimatum: Okay, so we've tried being nice, we've tried shaming, and we've tried bribing. If none of that works, it's time for the ultimatum. Send a message to the inactive member and let them know that they'll be removed from the league if they don't start participating more. Make it clear that you value active and engaged members, and that their lack of involvement is impacting the league. But make sure to end the relationship on good terms.
Dealing with inactive or unresponsive league members can be frustrating, but it doesn't have to ruin your fantasy football experience. Try the gentle nudge, the public callout, the bribe, or the ultimatum. And if all else fails, just remember that it's just a game, folks. Keep it fun, keep it lighthearted, and don't forget to laugh at yourself along the way.
So there you have it, folks. My tips and tricks for keeping your league members engaged all season long. Remember, it's not just about winning or losing. It's about the journey and the memories you create along the way. Have fun, stay creative,
]]>An auction draft style fantasy football league is a unique format that allows owners to bid on individual players to build their rosters. In an auction draft, each owner is given a budget of imaginary money (typically $200) to spend on their team. They then take turns nominating players to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.
Once a player is nominated, owners can bid on that player in increments of their choosing until no one is willing to bid any higher. The highest bidder then gets that player and the cost is deducted from their budget. This process continues until each owner has filled out their roster.
One of the biggest advantages of an auction draft is that every owner has a chance to acquire any player they want, regardless of where they are in the draft order. It also allows for more strategy and flexibility, as owners can choose to spend big on a few top players or spread their budget out across multiple players.
Another benefit is that it can be a more engaging and interactive experience than a traditional snake draft. The bidding process creates more excitement and competition among owners, and it's a great way to keep everyone involved and invested throughout the entire draft.
One potential downside of an auction draft is that it can take longer to complete than a traditional draft. With each player being auctioned off individually, the process can take several hours, depending on the size of the league and the number of roster spots.
Overall, an auction draft is a fun and exciting way to build your fantasy football team. It allows for more flexibility, strategy, and engagement than a traditional snake draft, and it's a great way to keep everyone involved and invested throughout the entire draft.
Below are some tips to make sure you take down a fantasy football championship belt this season at your auction draft.
Here are some strategies that fantasy football owners can use to maximize their success in an auction draft:
Before the auction draft, it's important to familiarize yourself with your league's scoring system, roster requirements, and draft budget. This will help you develop a strategy and allocate your budget accordingly.
It's essential to identify which players you want to target and how much you're willing to spend on each one. This requires a lot of research, so be sure to study player rankings, injury reports, and preseason performances to make informed decisions.
While it's important to have a list of target players, it's equally important to be flexible and adapt to changes in the draft. If players you were targeting go for more than you anticipated, be willing to shift your focus and find value elsewhere.
Managing your budget is crucial in an auction draft. It's important to allocate your funds strategically and avoid overspending early in the draft. You don't want to be left with only a few dollars to fill out the remainder of your roster.
Look for players who are undervalued by other owners and can provide great value for their cost. These are players who can outperform their draft price and help you build a strong team while allowing you to save money for later rounds.
While it's tempting to spend big on star players, it's important to remember that no single player can win a fantasy football league. Avoid overspending on a few top players and instead focus on building a well-rounded team with depth at every position.
Pay attention to how your opponents are spending their budgets and adjust your strategy accordingly. If other owners are overspending on a certain position, be patient and wait for value picks to fall to you later in the draft.
Overall, an auction draft requires a lot of preparation, research, and flexibility. By using these strategies, fantasy football owners can maximize their success and build a strong team capable of winning a championship.
Have any advice for first time auction drafters? Please share your thoughts with us below!
]]>Ah, the art of the trade. It's like the Wild West of fantasy football. The thrill of the deal, the rush of the negotiation, the sweet taste of victory when you pull off a steal. But let's be real, trading can also be a minefield of regret and disappointment.
That's why we're here to help you navigate the treacherous waters of fantasy football trading with some tips and tricks to come out on top. So grab your cowboy hat and your calculator, partner. We are here to teach you how to trade in fantasy football!
Valuing players - It's like trying to guess the price of a rare "rare" Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr Rookie Card.. But fear not, young fantasy footballer! Here are some tips to help you figure out which players are worth their weight in gold, and which ones are just dead weight:
And of course, don't forget to be wary of those sneaky trade proposals. Just because someone is offering you their star player doesn't mean it's a good deal for you. Keep these tips in mind when evaluating trade offers, and you'll be well on your way to earning your very own Fantasy Football Championship Belt!
Timing can make or break a trade in fantasy football, much like it does in comedy. There's a fine line between a well-timed trade that can turn your season around and a poorly timed one that can leave you feeling like a punchline.
The key to successful fantasy football trading is being able to recognize when the timing is right. Keep an eye on the waiver wire, injury reports, and the upcoming schedule. If you see an opportunity to make a trade that can help your team, don't wait too long or you might miss out.
On the other hand, don't jump the gun and make a trade just for the sake of making one. Sometimes the best move is to wait and see how things play out before making a move. And remember, just because a player is hot one week doesn't mean they'll continue to perform at that level.
Avoid common pitfalls like trading out of panic or desperation, or making trades based solely on name recognition. Instead, be patient and strategic, and you'll be sure to make some winning trades that'll have your league mates laughing all the way to the playoffs.
Now that you've assessed the value of your own players and understood the importance of timing, it's time to look at the other teams in your league. By identifying weaknesses in opposing teams, you can find opportunities to make trades that benefit both parties.
Start by analyzing each team's roster and identifying areas of weakness. Maybe one team has a strong group of running backs but lacks a quality quarterback, or perhaps another team has a top-tier tight end but weak wide receivers. Once you've identified these weaknesses, you can offer a trade that benefits both teams.
However, it's important to avoid making low-ball offers or trying to take advantage of a team's weaknesses. Instead, focus on proposing fair and mutually beneficial trades that address the needs of both teams. By targeting weaknesses in opposing teams, you can improve your own team while also helping out your fellow league members.
Now that you know what players to target and when to strike, it's time to hone your negotiation skills. (The meat & potatoes of this article).
Here are some tactics to consider:
You've made a trade, but it's not working out as planned. What do you do? It's time to cut your losses.
As painful as it may be, sometimes you need to admit defeat and move on. Don't hold onto a player just because you traded for them. If they're not performing up to expectations, it may be time to cut bait.
This doesn't mean you should give up on a player after just one bad week. But if a player is consistently underperforming or has suffered a significant injury, it may be time to let them go.
Don't be afraid to make a trade that seems like a loss on paper if it means freeing up a roster spot or getting rid of a headache. Remember the famous scene from the movie "Wolf of Wallstreet" where Jordan Belfort said "I'm not f***ing leaving!" Don't be like that. Sometimes, you need to know when to leave.
Of course, cutting your losses also means being prepared to admit when you made a mistake. If you traded away a player who ends up having a breakout season, don't beat yourself up over it. Learn from your mistakes and use them to inform your future trades.
In conclusion, trading in fantasy football can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. By understanding the value of players, timing your trades, targeting weaknesses in opposing teams, and using effective negotiation strategies, you can improve your team's chances of success.
So go ahead and put these tips and tricks to use in your next trade, and may the fantasy football gods be ever in your favor!
Now ready to take down a championship, be sure to check out our EPIC Fantasy Football Belts!
]]>But what if there was a better way? Enter Free Agent Auction Bidding, or FAAB for short. In this post, we'll explain how FAAB works and why it's a better system than other waiver wire options.
First, let's start with the basics. FAAB is a system where each team in your league is given a certain amount of "budget" to spend on free agents. Instead of being the first team to claim a free agent off the waiver wire, you bid on them with your budget. The highest bidder wins, and the winning bid is deducted from your budget.
Now, you might be thinking, "But isn't that just like an auction draft?" Well, yes and no. It's similar in that you're bidding on players, but in an auction draft, you're bidding on players before the season starts. In FAAB, you're bidding on players that have already been released by other teams during the season.
So why is FAAB better than other waiver wire systems? Let's break it down.
First, FAAB eliminates the luck factor. In other waiver wire systems, the team with the highest waiver priority gets the free agent they want. But what if that team doesn't need that player? What if they're just picking them up to prevent another team from getting them? With FAAB, the team that wants the player the most will get them, regardless of their waiver priority.
Second, FAAB creates a more level playing field. In other waiver wire systems, the team that's doing poorly early in the season is more likely to get the hot free agents. But with FAAB, every team starts with the same budget, so every team has an equal chance to get the players they need to improve their team.
Third, FAAB adds another layer of strategy to the game. In other waiver wire systems, you just have to be lucky enough to have the highest waiver priority. But with FAAB, you have to decide how much a player is worth to you, and you have to manage your budget throughout the season. Do you spend all your budget early in the season, or do you save it for later when more valuable free agents become available? It's up to you.
Finally, FAAB is just more fun. There's something exciting about bidding on players and winning them with your budget. It's like a mini-auction every week. And because every team has a chance to get the players they want, there's more trash talk and competition between teams.
Now, there are a few downsides to FAAB. First, it can be more time-consuming than other waiver wire systems. You have to log in and submit your bids every week, and if you're in multiple leagues, it can be a lot to manage. Second, it can be frustrating if you miss out on a player you really wanted. But that's true of any waiver wire system.
In conclusion, if you're tired of the luck factor and want a more level playing field, FAAB is the way to go. It adds another layer of strategy to the game and is just more fun. And who doesn't love a good auction? So if you haven't tried FAAB yet, give it a shot. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
Check out our badass Fantasy Football Trophies below to take your league to a whole new level!
]]>Fantasy football has become a huge industry, with millions of people participating in leagues every year. One of the keys to success in fantasy football is staying up to date with player news, statistics, and scores.
Luckily, there are many great fantasy football apps available that can help you manage your team and stay on top of the latest news and trends. Here are some of the best fantasy football apps to consider:
Yahoo Fantasy Sports is one of the most popular fantasy football apps available. The app offers live drafts, custom leagues, and detailed player information, making it a great option for serious fantasy football players.
ESPN Fantasy Sports is another top option for fantasy football players. The app offers live drafts, customizable leagues, and detailed player information, as well as push notifications for important news and updates.
Sleeper is a newer fantasy football app that has quickly gained popularity. The app offers innovative features such as "dynasty" leagues, which allow you to keep your team from year to year, and a "draftboard" feature that makes it easy to keep track of your draft picks.
CBS Sports Fantasy is a comprehensive fantasy football app that offers live drafts, customizable leagues, and detailed player information. The app also includes a "draft analyzer" feature that can help you optimize your draft strategy.
The official NFL Fantasy Football app offers live drafts, customizable leagues, and detailed player information. The app also includes push notifications for important news and updates, making it a great option for serious fantasy football players.
Rotoworld is a popular fantasy football app that offers up-to-date player news and analysis, as well as customizable rankings and projections. The app also includes push notifications for breaking news and player updates.
FantasyPros is a great app for fantasy football players who want to stay on top of the latest news and trends. The app offers expert analysis and rankings, as well as customizable player projections.
The Score is a comprehensive sports app that offers live scores, news, and analysis for a variety of sports, including fantasy football. The app includes customizable alerts and push notifications for important news and updates.
While primarily known for its daily fantasy sports offerings, FanDuel also offers a season-long fantasy football app. The app offers live drafts, customizable leagues, and detailed player information.
Fantasy Football Calculator is a popular app for fantasy football draft preparation. The app offers customizable draft rankings, mock drafts, and average draft position data to help you make informed draft decisions.
Ultimately, the best fantasy football app for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as live draft options, customizable leagues, player information and analysis, and push notifications when selecting a fantasy football app to use for your league.
After you take down a title, be sure to order your FANTASYJOCKS Fantasy Football Championship Ring to immortalize your victorious season!
]]>
But wait, what is a fantasy football league constitution, you may ask? It's like a set of bylaws for your league that outlines rules, expectations, and guidelines for all members to follow. It's just like the constitution of the United States, but way cooler and hopefully one your elected leaders will actually follow.
Having a fantasy football league constitution provides clarity and structure to your league. No more confusion about how trades work, who gets priority on the waiver wire, or what happens in the event of a tie. It's all spelled out for you, making the league run much more smoothly and preventing conflicts and misunderstandings.
Not only does it establish rules and guidelines, but a league constitution also promotes fairness and transparency. Equal playing field for all teams? Check. Holding league members accountable for their actions? Check. Implementing rules for trades, waivers, and roster management? Check, check, and check.
But it's not all about rules and regulations. A fantasy football league constitution also promotes active participation and a sense of community. Deadlines and penalties for inactivity? Check. Encouraging league members to participate in discussions and decision-making? Check. Fostering a sense of camaraderie? Checkmate.
Last but not least, a fantasy football league constitution creates a sense of tradition. Establishing league traditions and rituals? Check. Maintaining a historical record of past seasons and champions? Check. Creating a legacy for future league members? Triple check.
So what are you waiting for? It's time to create your very own fantasy football league constitution and reap all of its benefits. Your league members will thank you, your season will run smoother, and you'll have a blast creating a legacy that will last for years to come.
And don't forget, there is no better tradition than the annual presentation of custom fantasy football trophy to your league CHAMPION. If your league is in need of an upgrade, check out our incredible trophies below.
]]>First off, let's start with the basics. A guillotine league is a type of fantasy football league where the lowest-scoring team each week is eliminated from the league, and their players are put up for auction for the remaining teams to bid on. It's like a game of musical chairs, but instead of chairs, it's fantasy football teams, and instead of music, it's the sound of your friends crying.
Now, why is this better than traditional leagues? Well, for one, it keeps everyone engaged throughout the season. In a regular league, once you're out of the playoff race, you stop caring. But in a guillotine league, every week is a fight for survival.
Another benefit of a guillotine league is that it rewards consistency. In a traditional league, one bad week can ruin your entire season. But in a guillotine league, you can have a bad week and still survive as long as other teams do worse.
Plus, the added element of player auctions can be a lot of fun. Having a mini-draft every week gives everyone a chance to improve their team, even if they didn't win the previous week.
Of course, there are some downsides to a guillotine league. For one, it can be heartbreaking to get eliminated early in the season. It's like getting voted off Survivor first, but with more shame and less chance of getting a reality TV deal.
But overall, a guillotine league can be a fun and exciting way to spice up your fantasy football season. It's like a rollercoaster ride, but instead of loops and drops, it's emotional highs and lows based on how well your team performs. So give it a try, and remember to bring your best chopping skills.
Be sure to surf on over to our Fantasy Football Trophies page to get your league setup with some proper hardware!
When it comes to guillotine leagues, the strategies are a little different from traditional fantasy football leagues. Here are some tips to help you survive and thrive in a guillotine league:
Focus on Consistency: In a guillotine league, you don't need to have the highest-scoring team every week, you just need to avoid being the lowest-scoring team. That means it's important to focus on consistency, rather than trying to hit a home run with a big week. Aim for a solid, reliable lineup each week that can consistently score you points.
Be Aggressive in the Auctions: Every week, the players from the eliminated team will go up for auction, and you'll have a chance to bid on them. It's important to be aggressive in these auctions, as getting a top player can be the difference between surviving and getting eliminated. But also be careful not to overspend and hurt your chances in the long run.
Know When to Take Risks: While consistency is important, there may be times when you need to take a risk to stay alive. If you're in danger of getting eliminated and have a player with a high ceiling, it might be worth taking a chance on them to try and get a big week. But be aware of the risks and don't make a desperation move that could hurt you in the long run.
Keep an Eye on the Other Teams: In a guillotine league, it's important to keep an eye on the other teams and how they're doing. If you see a team struggling and likely to get eliminated, you might want to hold back on bidding for their players and save your money for the next auction.
Stay Active on the Waiver Wire: Even though the auctions are important, don't neglect the waiver wire. There will still be players available each week that can help your team, so keep an eye on them and make sure to grab any gems that become available.
Have Fun: Guillotine leagues can be stressful, but they can also be a lot of fun. Don't take it too seriously and enjoy the added excitement and competitiveness of this unique type of league.
So there you have it, some strategies to help you succeed in a guillotine league. Just remember, every week is a new challenge, and anything can happen. So be ready to adapt and adjust your strategy as the season goes on.
]]>If you're like me, the highlight of your summer is not the beach, the BBQs, or the warm weather. No, the true highlight is the highly anticipated Fantasy Football draft, where you and your friends compete to create the ultimate team of players that will hopefully lead you to glory (or at least bragging rights for the next year).
But let's face it, drafting in your buddy's musty basement just isn't cutting it anymore. It's time to spice things up and take your draft to a whole new level of awesomeness.
So sit back, grab a cold one, and get ready to discover the five best locations to hold your Fantasy Football draft this summer. Trust me, your team (and your liver) will thank you. And before you forget commish, make sure to order your leagues fantasy football draft board early to avoid any last minute mishaps!
Let's be honest, you and your buddies don't need much of an excuse to hit up your favorite sports bar. But now, you can justify spending hours at the bar by turning it into your Fantasy Football draft headquarters.
Not only does a sports bar provide ample space for your group, but it also has plenty of TVs so you can keep up with the latest player news and analysis. And let's not forget the drink specials and pub grub that will keep you fueled throughout the draft.
Many sports bars even offer private rooms or special deals for Fantasy Football drafts. For example, Buffalo Wild Wings has a dedicated "draft room" and Hooters offers a Fantasy Football package that includes a private room, draft board, and food and drink specials. (although we don't recommend trusting a "free" draft kit for the big day. Snag a FANTASYJOCKS draft board to make sure your getting player labels with all the update rookies and sleepers) Reserve your spot early, because these rooms fill up fast.
But be warned, drafting at a sports bar can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you're surrounded by like-minded sports fans who will understand your excitement over drafting a sleeper pick. On the other hand, distractions are plentiful and you may find yourself spending more time watching the games on TV than making your draft picks. So proceed with caution, my friends.
If you're looking for a more relaxed and laid-back draft experience, why not take it to a friend's house with a backyard? Not only will you have plenty of space to spread out and set up your draft station, but you can also take advantage of the great outdoors.
Get creative with your draft set up and incorporate some backyard games and activities. Set up a cornhole tournament or a game of beer pong to keep things interesting. Plus, being outside means you won't have to worry about that horrible stench that fills the room every time your buddies get together for longer than 5 minutes.
If you're feeling extra fancy, you could even rent a projector and set up a big screen to watch some pre season games on TV.
Drafting at someone's house means you'll have to deal with potential distractions like kids, pets, and significant others. But hey, that's just part of the charm, right? Plus, you'll be in a comfortable and familiar environment, which can help ease the stress of making those all-important draft picks.
Why not turn your Fantasy Football draft into a weekend getaway? Renting a vacation home or cabin with your league-mates can be a fun and unique way to hold your draft. Plus, it's a great excuse to get out of town and explore a new area.
When choosing a vacation rental, look for a place that has plenty of space for your group to spread out and set up your draft station. You'll also want to make sure there are plenty of amenities nearby, like grocery stores or restaurants, so you can stock up on rations for the draft.
Some vacation rentals even come equipped with their own game rooms or home theaters, which can make for the perfect draft atmosphere. And after the draft is over, you and your league-mates can relax and enjoy all the other activities the area has to offer.
Of course, renting a vacation home can be pricey, but if you're splitting the cost among your league-mates, it can definitely soften the blow to your wallet. But if you plan ahead and do your research, you can find some great deals on rental properties that will make your draft weekend unforgettable.
If you and your league-mates are serious about both Fantasy Football and beer (or wine), then a local brewery could be the perfect draft location for you. Not only do many breweries offer ample space for groups, but they also have plenty of libations to keep you hydrated (or not) throughout the draft.
Many breweries even offer private rooms or event spaces that you can reserve for your draft. Just imagine sitting at a long table surrounded by barrels of craft beer, with your draft board and player cheat sheets spread out in front of you. It's the perfect atmosphere to make those tough draft decisions.
And let's not forget about the potential for post-draft tastings and tours. You and your league-mates can stick around after the draft and sample some of the brewery offerings. Just make sure to drink responsibly (you don't want to draft a kicker in the 2nd round).
For the ultimate Fantasy Football draft experience, why not hold your draft at a stadium or arena? Many sports venues offer private suites or event spaces that can be rented out for parties and events, including Fantasy Football drafts.
Just imagine sitting in a luxury suite overlooking the field, with your league-mates by your side and a spread of food and drinks at your fingertips. You'll feel like a real owner or coach, making those crucial draft picks in the same venue where your favorite players compete.
Plus, holding your draft at a stadium or arena can be a great way to get pumped up for the upcoming season. You'll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the game, which can help get you in the right mindset to dominate your league.
Of course, renting out a suite at a stadium or arena can be expensive, so this option may not be feasible for those of you who work at Wendy's. But if you're willing to splurge, it can be an unforgettable experience that you and your league-mates will never forget.
Just make sure to keep your eye on the prize (and your eye on the game), and don't get too distracted. After all, you're here to win your Fantasy Football league, not just enjoy the view.
Ok to recap 5 Creative locations to host your fantasy football draft this summer:
In the end, the location you choose for your Fantasy Football draft is all about personal preference. Whether you opt for a local sports bar, a friend's backyard, a vacation rental, a brewery, or even a stadium or arena, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the draft with your league-mates.
So grab some snacks, crack open a cold one (or a Claw, we don't judge), and let the trash-talking and draft picks fly. Who knows, maybe holding your draft in one of these unique locations will be just the lucky charm you need to finally win your league championship. Or maybe it'll just be an excuse to get together with your friends and have a good time.
Either way, cheers to a successful Fantasy Football season and to finding the perfect location for your draft. And if all else fails, just hold it in your mom's basement like the good old days.
]]>First and foremost, this is your number one task. Finding a convenient time for all league members to get together in one room is like trying to herd a pack of wild cats. Work/Family/Summer vacations are a commissioner’s worst nightmare. Get an email chain going early, throw out some dates, and hash this out long before preseason begins.
A quick note: Commish, this responsibility lands on your shoulders. Don't expect anyone else to want to help organize. It ain't fair, but such is life. Deal with it.
If you're going to make this thing work, communication is everything. All your league members need to be on the same page. Nine individual one-off text messages aren't going to get the job done. Neither is email, and no one hates group text messages more than myself.
My suggestion? GroupMe. GroupMe is a group messaging app that works for all phones; IOS, Android, that Nokia back in the day that everyone had because of Snake, all of them.
Please don't quote me on that last one. Download the GroupMe app, mess around with it for a while to get comfortable, create a group for your league and have them download. You're able to send them a download and join link straight right within the app. I'm sure you can also use WhatsApp for this, but I'm not very familiar with it and have had 0 complaints with GroupMe. Once everybody is on board, the fun begins.
Doodle.com is another great app if you want to skip all the banter and just get down and dirty on a date!
For the first few years following the implementation of our live draft, the majority of my friends, including myself, were still in college. Since you're reading this wonderful post, I'm assuming you're a very intelligent person, and likely went to college. If you remember, students are, for the most part, due back on campus mid-late August, which is far before the NFL season kick-offs.
With my friends and I scattered around the country in pursuit of a $60,000 piece of paper, we had no choice but to hold our draft weeks before the season began, which is far from ideal. Also, given the nature of the NFL season, all fantasy drafts should happen during the summer, aka prime time vacationing period. Another wrench thrown into the works. What I'm getting at is, every league will need to work around every single league members' schedule.
There is, however, one specific date that has yet to fail me: Labor Day Monday, late afternoon into the early evening (our draft usually kicks off between 3 and 6PM).
For you young folk, out all weekend burning down the Jersey Shore, this date and time gives you time to slug your way home, enjoy a quick nap, get some draft-prep in and be out the door ready to go.
For you not-so-young folk, this works too. I'm living proof. The older, mature-ish people's Labor Day BBQs tend to happen between Friday and Sunday. A recent Bloomberg poll pegged 97% of employees receiving Labor Day Monday off, meaning there's virtually no excuse not to leave that date open on your calendar.
A few disclaimers I'd like to throw in:
Disclaimer 1: If you're unable to draft on Labor Monday for whatever reason, look to draft as close as possible to the start of the regular season. That way you'll avoid any preseason injuries that might take place after your draft has already happened.
Disclaimer 2: It's not completely necessary for every single league member to attend the live draft. I'd cap that number at one, but nonetheless, the flexibility can help while planning. In one case, we had a league member of ours on vacation and it was the only date the other nine of us could get together. So, the 10th member brought his laptop and we video chatted on Skype with him the entire time, never missing a beat. Two year ago, we had a member of our league backpacking the summer away in Europe. So, we allowed him to choose anyone he wanted, outside of our league, to sit in and select his team on draft day. If you someone is going to do that, they need to make sure it's someone they trust having a firm understanding of fantasy football.
Disclaimer 3: If you want your draft to start at 6:30, you tell everyone it starts at 6:15, sharp. There will ALWAYS be THAT guy. First come, first choice of seat should be incentive enough to show up early.
Over the years, more and more popular chain restaurants are offering a service to host your fantasy football draft. Get this idea out of your head yesterday. Trust me when I tell you things can get heated at these live drafts, and no one wants to be the guy, or girl, dropping f-bombs in front of a family of six at Applebee’s. Nothing beats a home-made live draft, secluded from everyone and everything, apart from your league mates and a few couches to rest your ass on for the next four hours.
But who will host? Is it the commissioner? Is it randomly selected out of a hat? The answer is that this is a true collaborative decision. Someone must be willing to play host. Don't force this on anyone, it's inhumane. A few things to keep in mind when selecting a host:
Most importantly, you need a physical draft board. Lucky for you, FANTASYJOCKS is your one-stop-shop for all your league needs. Go on and click over to our store where you can choose between three fantasy football draft kits, all of which include the 80lb Gloss Paper draft board, color coded player stickers for all players and positions and a bunch of other sweet extras. Consider upgrading your fantasy football trophy while you're at it.
Well, maybe I should have prefaced this paragraph with "most importantly". FOOD. Imagine going to a tailgate, or a wedding or anything for that matter without a grandé selection of food. The same notion applies for your fantasy draft. This is another topic that should be collaborative. The commissioner and the host should link up first. If the host is cooking, or has someone that will cook in their house, great. Usually, that's not how it works. Plus, draft day is purely for laziness and processed foods. If you think your league is mature enough to handle splitting up food/drink/paper items evenly, by all means. If not, one of you (host or commissioner) should go ahead and order from a local restaurant. For the most part they should be open on Labor Day Monday, but it's worth calling ahead to confirm and even schedule the order to be delivered at the perfect time. If it comes to ordering food, let your league mates know in advance (through GroupMe) ask if there's any specific preferences, requests or dietary restrictions. Other than that, order away and have everyone bring cash to the draft or pay you back via Venmo.
Lastly, I ain't your mother, but of course, drink responsibly. Uber is your friend in this situation. I'm not going to preach to you how to booze, but BYOB has always worked best. Again, if the host is willing to provide, even better.
The big day is finally here. By this point, 98% of the work should be taken care of. What could go wrong?
Commissioner - I'd send a message in the morning, reminding everyone of the exact draft time.
Is it the commissioner's job to print out cheat sheets for the league? Hell no.
This is completely subjective, but once everyone arrives I give a quick pre-draft pump up speech, make everyone aware of any rule changes for the upcoming season, tell everyone that we've implemented random drug tests and that if you don't fail the drug test, you're out of the league. Play time is over and we listen to the national anthem.
The big hand strikes six while the little hand simultaneously settles directly between the six and seven. It's 6:30 and T.J. Who's Ya Mama is officially on the clock. Something you may not have thought about pre-draft is a time limit on picks. It's automatic online, but not so much face-to-face. We'll usually have someone take out their iPhone and reset each pick to 2:00. My personal favorite comes from natural order. No official clock. When you're taking too long, your league mates will let you know. And not in a nice way. What starts out as a joyous experience, quickly turns into, what I imagine the New York Jets front office, board room looks like when they're drafting a quarterback. This is completely up to you, though.
Looking for some additional ideas to spice up the day? Here are some of our favorites:
Remember, first thing's first: the group communication platform is key. The rest of the pieces fall in place once that's taken care of. The earlier you decide on your league's draft date, the more time your league members have to organize their life around it, meaning less chance of a last-second scheduling mishap.
Well, your first live draft is in the books. Go home, get some rest. Tomorrow you can kick yourself for drafting that "Sleeper" Kicker in the 5th Round!
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Whether you've just won your first championship or you're a seasoned veteran with a collection of FJ rings to rival Saturn's, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know to keep your rings looking as fresh as the day you won 'em. So sit back, grab yourself a cold one and let's get started on this squeaky clean journey together.
Don't have a coveted FANTASYJOCKS Championship Ring yet? (That's a problem you can address by clicking the link below).
Although this guide was specially designed for our own championship rings, it should still come in handy for any Baseball Championship Rings, Little League Rings, Replica Rings, or even Super Bowl Rings for that matter!
Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of cleaning your precious. First off, you're gonna need some soap and water - but not just any old soap. We're talking mild dish soap here, folks. None of that harsh stuff that's gonna leave your ring looking like it just went through a acid power wash.
Once you've got your soap, it's time to get scrubbing. Gently, mind you. You don't want to be too rough on that bling or you'll risk scratching it. A soft-bristled brush will do the trick, just make sure it's not too abrasive. If you don't have a brush handy, a gentle toothbrush can works as well (just don't tell your roommate).
Now, if you're feeling fancy, you might want to try a specialized jewelry cleaner. These can be found at most jewelry stores or online, and can really help get your ring looking spiffy but truthfully isn't necessary in most situations. If you do go this route, just make sure you follow the instructions carefully - you don't want to accidentally turn your ring into a piece of scrap metal.
Once you've scrubbed to your heart's content, it's time to rinse that bad boy off. Make sure you get all the soap residue off or you'll risk leaving unsightly marks on your ring. And remember, when it comes to drying your ring, patience is key. Don't try to speed up the process with a hairdryer or you might end up with a loosing the glue holding your bling in place. Instead, just let it air dry or gently pat it dry with a soft cloth.
Follow these tips and your ring will be looking so fresh and so clean that people might mistake you for a first-time champion all over again.
Congratulations, you've made it to the polishing stage! Your ring is nice and shiny, but we're not done yet. We want that baby to sparkle like it's fresh off the assembly line.
The first step to polishing your ring is to grab a jewelry cloth - not your gym sock or that questionable towel under your bed. You want a cloth that's specifically designed for jewelry cleaning. If you're feeling fancy, you can also invest in a polishing solution, but don't go overboard with it or you might end up with a ring that's shinier than your forehead on a hot summer day.
Now, here comes the fun part. Gently rub your ring with the cloth, using circular motions to bring out the shine. Think of it like you're buffing out a scratch on your car - Mr. Miyagi style.
You'll want to be extra careful not to damage the stones in your ring. Use a Q-tip or a soft-bristled brush to get into those hard-to-reach areas, and be sure to avoid any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
And voila! Your ring is looking so good that you might be tempted to blind your league mates with its radiance. Just remember, with great bling comes great responsibility - you'll need to keep up with regular cleaning and polishing to keep that ring shining like a star.
Finally, let's talk about storing your ring. You don't want to just toss it in a drawer and banish it to the darkness like Bain. Show that puppy off! We have a super amazing Championship Ring Display Case that can be custom engraved with whatever text your heart desires. The clear acrylic, dust proof case works great for storing and showcasing your ring until draft day.
You did it, my friend! You've successfully learned how to clean, polish, and store your championship ring like a pro. Just think, if your ring could talk, it would be thanking you right now for all the TLC you've given it.
Remember, your championship ring is a symbol of your hard work and dedication, and it deserves to be treated with the utmost care. Plus, let's be real, who doesn't love a good excuse to show off some bling?
So keep up with regular cleaning and storage, and your ring will remain a shining beacon of your accomplishments for years to come. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing it down to future generations as a treasured family heirloom (just make sure to give them this guide, too).
Now go out there and conquer the season - or at least your next game. And don't forget to give that ring a good polish before you do. Cheers, champ!
]]>Fantasy football is obviously a fun and exciting way to enjoy the NFL season with friends, family, and even coworkers. It's a game that has grown in popularity over the years, with millions of people participating in fantasy football leagues each year. However, after a while, even the best leagues can start to feel stale and predictable, with the same routine year after year. That's why it's important to spice things up and keep the competition fresh and exciting.
In this article, we'll explore five ways to do just that, from trying new draft formats to implementing weekly challenges and more. So, whether you're a seasoned fantasy football veteran or just getting started, read on for some inspiration on how to make your league more engaging and enjoyable for everyone involved.
One of the easiest ways to spice up your fantasy football league is by implementing unique scoring systems. Sure, standard scoring systems are the bread and butter of fantasy football, but adding some extra points for certain achievements can make the game more interesting.
Here are a few examples of unique scoring systems you can consider:
Bonus Points for Long Plays - Give additional points to players who have a long touchdown or reception. This can incentivize drafting players with big-play potential and make the game more exciting.
Negative Points for Missed Field Goals - Consider giving negative points to kickers who miss field goals. This can add an extra layer of strategy as fantasy owners will need to balance the upside of a kicker with a strong leg against the risk of missed kicks.
Points for Consistency - Instead of rewarding only the highest-scoring players, consider giving points to players who consistently perform well week after week. This can help mitigate the luck factor in fantasy football and reward managers who make smart draft picks and roster decisions.
By implementing unique scoring systems, you can make your fantasy football league more interesting and engaging for all participants.
One of the most exciting parts of any fantasy football season is the draft. It's a time when everyone in the league gets together, whether in person or virtually, to make their picks and set the tone for the upcoming season. So why not make the draft an even more memorable experience by adding some unique elements to it?
Choose a Creative Draft Location: Instead of holding your draft at the same old bar or someone's house, think outside the box. Consider renting a private room at a sports stadium or arranging a draft party at a local restaurant or brewery.
Draft Board: Take your live draft to the next level by ordering one of our fantasy football draft board kits. Stop wasting time with duplicate picks and not knowing who is the next team on the clock. Using a professional level kit keeps your draft running like a well oiled machine!
Draft Music: Set the tone for your draft by creating a custom playlist or hiring a DJ to provide the soundtrack for the night. Choose songs that reflect the theme of your league or that are related to football.
Draft Menu: Offer some unique food options that match the theme of your league or the team names. For example, if one team is the "Burger Bunch," serve up a variety of burgers.
Draft Props: Consider adding some props to your draft to make it more fun and interactive. For example, you could provide hats or jerseys for each team to wear during the draft, or your trophy or championship belt on display to remind everyone what they're playing for.
Incorporating these unique elements into your draft and you'll create an experience that everyone in your league will look forward to each year.
Fantasy football is all about fun and competition, and introducing side bets and weekly prizes can add an extra level of excitement to your league. Here are some ideas for side bets and prizes that can make your league even more enjoyable:
Highest single-game point total: The team that scores the highest number of points in a single game during the regular season gets a prize. It can be a small cash prize, a gift card, or even a trophy.
Weekly high scorer: Each week, the team that scores the most points gets a prize. It can be a small prize, like a gift card, or a larger prize, like a trophy.
Pick 'em pool: Have each member of your league pick the winners of a selected group of games each week. The person with the most correct picks each week gets a prize.
Survivor pool: Have each member of your league pick one team to win each week. If their chosen team wins, they move on to the next week. If their chosen team loses, they are out of the pool. The last person standing gets a prize.
Punishment bowl: Create a bowl with a bunch of creative and fun punishments written on pieces of paper. At the end of each week, the team with the lowest score has to draw a punishment from the bowl.
Commissioner's challenge: Have the commissioner of the league issue a weekly challenge to the league members. The person who completes the challenge gets a prize.
Introducing side bets and prizes can make your league more exciting and engaging, and can also help build camaraderie among league members. Just be sure to set clear rules and expectations for each side bet or prize to avoid any confusion or disputes.
Midway through the season, it’s time to check in with your league and add some excitement. Hosting a mid-season event can be a great way to keep the league engaged and motivated. Here are some ideas to consider:
Costume Party: Host a costume party where each member has to dress up as their fantasy football team name. This can be a fun and creative way to incorporate everyone's team into the event.
Pick’em Tournament: Host a pick’em tournament where league members make picks on all the games that week. The person with the most correct picks wins a prize. This is a great way to add an extra layer of competition and keep everyone involved, even if their fantasy team is struggling.
Mini-Games: Set up a mini-games event where each league member can compete in different games such as beer pong, cornhole, or even Madden. This is a great way to create some friendly competition and add a little more excitement to the event.
Fantasy Football Jeopardy: Set up a Jeopardy-style game with questions related to the current NFL season. This can be a fun way to test everyone's knowledge and add a competitive edge to the event.
Draft Lottery: Hold a draft lottery to determine the draft order for the following season. This can add an exciting twist to the mid-season event, as everyone eagerly awaits their chance to pick their spot in the draft order.
Adding a mid-season event can help break up the monotony of the fantasy football season and keep your league engaged and motivated. Consider incorporating some of these ideas, or coming up with your own, to make your mid-season event a hit.
After 16 long weeks, the fantasy football season finally comes to an end. But before you close the books on another year, why not celebrate the successes and reminisce on the highlights with your league members? Here are some ideas for end-of-season celebrations:
Championship Party: The winner of your league deserves a proper celebration. Host a party in their honor, complete with food, drinks, and of course, the coveted fantasy football championship belt or trophy. This is also a great opportunity to present any additional prizes or side bets that were won throughout the season.
Loser's Punishment: Don't forget about the losers! While it's not necessarily a celebration, it can still be a fun tradition to have a punishment for the league member who finished last. Our favorite - the Perpetual Horse's Ass Award!
Awards Ceremony: Take a cue from the Oscars and host an awards ceremony for your league. Come up with categories such as "Best Draft Pick," "Biggest Upset," and "Best Trash Talker." Have each league member vote on the winners and present them with a small prize or trophy.
Fantasy Football Hall of Fame: Create a "Hall of Fame" for your league's greatest players. Induct those who have had multiple championships, consistent success, or memorable moments throughout the years. You can even create a physical display in someone's home or office to commemorate their achievements.
Future Season Planning: While the current season is over, it's never too early to start planning for the next one. Use your end-of-season celebration to discuss potential changes or improvements for next year's league. This can include draft order selection methods, scoring system adjustments, or even expanding the league.
No matter how you choose to celebrate the end of the fantasy football season, make sure to have fun and appreciate the time spent with your fellow league members.
Well folks, there you have it! Five ways to spice up your fantasy football league and make it an unforgettable experience. From creating a unique draft experience to hosting a mid-season event and introducing side bets and prizes, these ideas will surely make your league the envy of all your friends (and enemies).
Remember, fantasy football is all about having fun and making memories with your buddies. So don't be afraid to get creative and try new things. Who knows, maybe next year you'll be hoisting one of our championship trophies (or belts) and looking back on the amazing season you had.
Now go out there, draft your teams, and let the trash-talking begin! And if all else fails, just remember to blame it on the autodraft.
]]>Fantasy football is a cutthroat game. You spend hours researching players, analyzing stats, and agonizing over your lineup decisions. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can't avoid finishing last in your league.
And when that happens, you have to face the consequences. That's right, we're talking about fantasy football punishments. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the best and most hilarious fantasy football punishments out there.
From embarrassing costumes to public displays of affection, these punishments will have you laughing (and cringing) all the way to the end zone.
If your pals are man enough, you can implement them into your league as well
There’s an infamous 10-man league based out of Omaha, Nebraska that holds a strict tattoo policy. Tattoos aren’t disallowed, nor must you have one to enter the league. By a strict tattoo policy, I mean this: Each season, the player who comes in dead last must allow a precious 4 inch x 4 inch masterpiece to be tattooed onto the body part of their choosing.
Unfortunately, the design is not of their choosing; the league winner gets to decide what gets inked. To make matters worse, the loser will not see the design until it is completed. Brutal. Since implementing this glorious rule, four members have been permanently branded as losers.
The Mona Lisa, ESPN Magazine Body Issue (If you’re friends look like mine it’s going to be the Prince Fielder edition), the Kim Kardashian Champagne-Ass photo. Nothing is off limits. Having the last place finisher re-enact or simply photoshopped on to any 12 funny pictures of your choosing to make a lovely calendar for all other league members to hang on their fridge.
Your wife probably won’t find it funny but you’ll get a daily reminder to dust up for next years draft. You don’t want your buddies daughter asking why your ass looks like two watermelons next time you're over at their house for dinner.
It may be just as uncomfortable for the last place finisher as it will be for the rest of the league members to look at, but it’ll be hilarious and you’ll have embarrassing pictures that’ll last a lifetime.
At next years live draft, the loser will be the card girl, similar to the ring girl in boxing, and will dress in either a tutu or a bikini, while delivering each selection to the draft board. It’s time to see who’s been doing their squats this winter.
How about making them wear a pink sash at the live draft? That’s humiliation that lasts all season.
16 years old, 23 years old, 39 years old? It doesn’t matter. It’s time to hit the books because you’re going back to 11th grade. The league loser signs up to take the SAT or the ACT at the local high school.
What happens with the final scores is up to the league. They might have to beat a certain score and face a harsher punishment if they fail to hit it. Or maybe a simple social media post displaying the result will suffice.
North Americans find public speaking to be the scariest thing in the world. Scarier than death. It’s a fact. So naturally the loser of the league must perform a five minute stand up comedy skit at whichever moronic comedy club that will allow it. If that doesn’t make you shit your pants, how does having the rest of the league members write your jokes sound?
Buying condoms can be awkward enough. Buying your league beer with a cucumber, lube and a box of condoms at your local supermarkets busiest operating hours? That’s the highest level of awkward possible.
Your league doesn’t need to have the funniest or most embarrassing punishment to keep everyone engaged. Sometimes less is more. The loser can buy a keg for next year’s draft or Superbowl party. Maybe it’s time to bust out the old Venus razor and have the loser shave their legs all summer.
Don't forget we offer a full ranger of loser trophies! Or if you want something a little more public, you can buy a custom license plate that reads “Fantasy Loser” on it. In pink, of course. With glitter and charms.
Does your league have a good punishment? Let us hear about it in the comments below!
]]>But before you even start stressing about how to determine your order, you need to make sure to make sure you have the big day covered.
Grab a FantasyJocks Fantasy Football Draft Board early to avoid any shipping delays. Still need a trophy? My personal favorite are their Fantasy Football Rings!
Here are 12 fantasy football draft order ideas for the season!
Sports on sports on sports. My girlfriend most likely stopped reading after that previous sentence. The wait for football season is grueling. My brain needs an alternative stimulation to get through the dog days of summer. Luckily, there are plenty of exciting sporting events that take place in the months prior to your fantasy football league’s draft date. Some events that can be used:
Choose whichever sports event best suits your league’s and you’re ready for the draft order competition to begin. For the first three listed, everyone fills out a bracket; best bracket gets first choice at their pick. For the events that hold favorites like horse races and the home run derby, use your leagues final standings from the previous year. From last to first, have the league members choose whichever horse or slugger they would like until everyone has a contestant. You get the idea..
If you’re anything like me, in that you’re friends are 50% human and 50% alcoholics. Is there a better way to decide your league’s draft order than through a drinking game tournament/competition? If you’re in college, that’s perfect, tensions will run high. Apparently, everyone is the best beer pong player in the history of their fraternity. If you received your bachelors before Justin Bieber became a full-grown woman, even better. It’s likely your league hasn’t gotten rowdy in some time and a good bonding experience can only help rally the league before the season begins.
Beer pong tournament anyone? Teams of two, once a team gets knocked out, those two individuals play 1-on-1 to determine draft order. Last team standing repeats the 1-on-1 game as well, vying for the top selection of draft spot. Maybe a giant game of flip cup is in order. Whatever sinks your submarine.
If you like sports, you probably like video games; mindless activities help you get away from your own reality. Sorry, that was depressing. But, the good news is you can get the best of both worlds with this option.
Set up a tournament, with the game of your choosing. Whether it’s Madden, NBA 2K, Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart, James Bond: Golden Eye, etc. Doesn’t matter. To make it fair, throw 10 game choices into a hat and choose from that. Set up a tournament if the in-game settings allow, or simply create a manual bracket using pen and paper, then play to determine the champion.
Just make sure none of your friends are German, or French, or whatever these guys are:
Winner, as always, gets their choice of draft spot.
Forget the SAT, the CPA and the GMAT. This is now the most important test of your life. The Wonderlic Test is often associated with the NFL draft process, a measure teams use to gage a player’s intelligence off the field. You can find a sample 50-question test at www.footballiqscore.com. Have everyone in the league take the test, highest score gets first choice of his or her pick.
*fun fact - Morris Claiborne scored a 4, the lowest by any NFL player in history.
Boring, yes. But it gets the job done when you can’t get everyone physically together to act out a draft order event. Just make sure one or two of your buddies can join you or simply take a video of the random picking so the rest of your league mates know you’re not pulling a Brady. I recommend using Ping Pong Balls for added realism.
Anyone over the age of 35 should have a soft spot for this one. Gone are the good old days of losing half of your monthly salary to bots on PokerStars. But a good ole fashion fixed buy in Poker Tournament is the perfect way to not only steal some cash off your buddies but also decide your draft slot!
Everyone agrees the draft is the highlight of the season right? Why not hold 2? Let me elaborate. If your league has been around for at least 1 season already, then you can choose your draft slot in reverse order of the previous years standings.
Instead of automatically assigning a member the first pick, they get first CHOICE of his draft slot. Gives you a chance to strategize based on your keeper given our keeper rules.
Who’s the true alpha dog of your fantasy wolf pack? Find out once and for all. If you’re over the age of 30, you will probably concede that you may not be as full of piss & vinegar as you once were in your glory days. IE – your testosterone levels are probably nosediving like a plane without fuel.
Here is your chance to check in on your man health and also determine your draft order.
Have everyone from the league order an at home testosterone test kit.
Highest numerical score drafts first, lowest last (or reverse order, if you want to show some sympathy to the noodle armed choir boy who has the lowest score in the league)
Either way, your league will be armed with some fantastic trash talking material for the upcoming season.
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Regardless of where you decide to host your league, we HIGHLY recommend hosting a live Off-line Draft to start your season. Snag a Fantasy Football Draft Board early to avoid any delays!
In no particular order, here are 5 of the Best Fantasy Football Sites to Host your League this season.
Best Fantasy Football Sites in 2024
Yahoo Fantasy Football is one of the first mainstream free fantasy football hosting platforms, and has been a pillar of Fantasy Sports for a long time. One of the best features is the real time stat tracking, which means no more refreshing your phone or tablet every 30 seconds. Not to mention this platform is free to use.
Whether you use a desktop, tablet, or phone, you won’t have any issues getting logged on through the website or the app. Along with being one of the most popular platforms to use, it’s also one of the easiest to use.
Bottomline:
Similar to YAHOO, ESPN has a large piece of the fantasy pie. It’s big, it’s red, it’s flashy, but at its core, ESPN Fantasy Football exemplifies simplicity. The FFL Toolkit itself is a reason to host your league on ESPN. Arguably the most interesting tool is the customizable ranking “report Cards” sent out weekly, recapping that weeks games, making for some excellent trash talk!
ESPN Fantasy Football is also a free platform, which allows your league to save money for... I don’t know, maybe a badass fantasy football ring? For some, the website can appear overly flooded with advertisements and a bulky amount of information and articles. But for others, this is exactly what you’re looking for. Similar to YAHOO, the ESPN website and app both work great on a desktop, tablet or smart phone.
Bottomline: ESPN Fantasy Football is another popular platform, and it's known for its user-friendly interface and robust customization options. You can create both standard and PPR leagues, and there are options for both head-to-head and total points scoring. ESPN also offers a mobile app, so you can manage your team from anywhere. The only downside is that some features, such as the draft board, are only available to ESPN+ subscribers.
It's free, simple, easy to engage league members. Great message board features to keep the trash talk flowing. Solid mobile app if you can get past the ads and crowded info.
One of the new fantasy football league hosting options is the SleeperApp. The SleeperApp gives you the ability to set up redraft, keeper, and dynasty leagues with ease. SleeperApp also has their own chat within the app, which is a great way for the league commissioners to keep in communication with the league.
One place for all announcements and/or league notifications, which include notifications when a player is added, dropped, or if a trade has gone through in your league. SleeperApp is an interesting fantasy site because it focuses on crowdsourced opinions, reposted material, multiple chat channels and a simple drafting interface. Another cool feature the SleeperApp offers is a “Weekly Report” for each league. Every week, the Weekly Report will highlight the best lineups, worst lineups, studs and duds which adds another layer of competition between league members.
We believe SleeperApp’s strength is that it streamlines fantasy football leagues and improves communication via the league chat - leaving very few excuses for league members to not set their lineup each week. Website works great on desktops, and the SleeperApp has an amazing application for tablets or mobile devices.
Bottomline: Sleeper is a newer fantasy football platform, but it's quickly gaining popularity thanks to its innovative features and sleek interface. It's completely free to use, and you can create both standard and PPR leagues. Sleeper also offers a variety of unique features, such as "bot" messaging that allows you to set up automated messages to your league mates, and an option to play out the fantasy football playoffs in a "best ball" format. The mobile app is also highly praised for its user-friendly design.
Free, easy to engage league members, and loads of different channels to find fantasy football advice/info. Amazing message board/chat to engage the rest of your league, and an amazing app that allows you to personalize the push notifications so you are not bombarded with useless information while still staying up to date on breaking developments.
The NFL has done a lot to embrace fantasy sports as a key component to the league’s popularity. Everything from mandating that fantasy stats be shown in stadiums, to hosting the official fantasy football service of the NFL. NFL Fantasy Leagues are free, and the look/feel is clean and engaging.
The website and tablet/mobile app flows very well and makes sense to even the newest of users, which means there is never an excuse for not using the waiver wire or setting your lineup.
Bottomline: Free, customizable, and a solid user interface with simple navigating. The consistency of the mobile app and the overall ease of use make the NFL.com a great place to host your league.
MyFantasyLeague, more commonly known as MFL, has been gaining crazy popularity in recent years given their highly sophisticated and unique hosting platform. Let me tell you up front, there is a price tag that comes with MFL hosting your fantasy league. But if your league is in for the long haul, meaning dynasty, keeper, or very specific league rules and settings, MFL is the best way to go. Besides, what’s an extra bucks per league member?
They offer essentially anything you can think of. The layout may initially seem hectic and might take some time getting used to, but once you get into the swing of things, you’ll be happy you spent the few extra bucks. MFL website is a little dated but they also offer an app if you use a tablet or mobile device.
Bottomline:
MyFantasyLeague is a platform that's geared towards more advanced fantasy football players who want a high level of customization. It's not as user-friendly as some of the other platforms on this list, but it offers a wide range of customization options, including the ability to create dynasty leagues and customize scoring rules. MyFantasyLeague also offers a mobile app, making it easy to manage your team on the go.
Ridiculously customizable, great for Dynasty/Keeper leagues. Takes a little getting used to. Costs $$
In conclusion, there are a lot of great fantasy football platforms out there, but these are the top 5 that stand out for their features, ease of use, and reliability. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned fantasy football player, these platforms offer something for everyone.
Have a suggestion not listed here? We'd love to hear where your league plays!
]]>Thankfully, some people’s lives are devoted to this fake sport and there are websites updated daily, even hourly, to supply you with the most up to date and accurate insider info. Knowing the correct sources will not only save you valuable hours from aimlessly browsing the web each week, but it’ll put you a few steps ahead of your buddies who think ESPN actually gives useful fantasy advice.
So today, we bring to you the five most valuable fantasy football advice websites & resources:
Nowadays, everyone and their mother posts their weekly fantasy football rankings. So, how do you decide whose rankings you should trust? Fantasy Pros makes it easy.
They compile all the best-known expert’s rankings in the industry, and make a simple, easy to navigate list of positional rankings each week of the season. The experts on the list are guys from ESPN, Yahoo, NFL.com, etc. At the end of the year, the experts are ranked on their accuracy, which is super cool. That way the fantasy world knows which “experts” talk the talk and which ones actually walk the walk.
http://www.fantasypros.com/nfl/accuracy/
When it comes to fantasy football, it really is roto’s world and we’re all just living in it. If a backup left tackle tweaks a hamstring, Rotoworld has a piece written on it within the hour. They don’t just tell you the details and severity, but a fantasy analysis is provided along with it. If you don’t have time to show love to the big guys up front, you can narrow down the player news by position or even by skill players. You can search individual players by name if you want the latest scoop on a quarterback you’ve been keeping your eye on. Think of it as a newsfeed, like Facebook, and you’re automatically friends with every fantasy football player. There’s a constant stream of notes and analysis from every team and player, given by reporters, beat writers, and team officials.
http://www.rotoworld.com
A largely unknown source, Rotoviz has been gaining popularity in recent years. They provide really unique and in depth analysis to pressing fantasy football topics. Unfortunately, they do charge for their services.. If you’re willing to win at all costs, it’s worth it, trust me. The Rotoviz team will hook you up with a free 3-day trial for signing up to their email newsletter. I’d suggest you take advantage.
The plethora of Rotoviz articles range anywhere from deep number-centered statistical analysis to injury player reports often accompanied by doctoral analysis. Their articles are supplemented with creative insights, graphs and breakdowns that you won’t find anywhere else.
http://rotoviz.com
The concept behind Pro Football Focus is actually insane. The team over at PFF watches every player, on every snap, of every game, on every single Sunday. They give a rating to each individual player on each play, so at the end of the game, we know whether or not that player positively or negatively impacted the game.
Pro Football Focus utilizes this breakdown in a number of useful ways. For example, they can tell you who has the best pass blocking and run blocking line going into 2024, based on actual statistics and ratings, rather than merely “expert” opinions. A metric that might help you decide a tiebreaker between two RBs on draft day.
Again, you get what you pay for. PFF isn’t free. At least the worthwhile information isn’t. You can purchase a Pre Season Draft Guide that blows the magazines in your local 7-11 out of the water.
You can purchase entrance to their websites “Signature Stats” section, which is more in tune with the player ratings I mentioned before. Signature Stats measures things like deep accuracy ratings for QBs, elusiveness and pass-blocking efficiency for RBs, drop rate, slot performance and yards per route run at the WR and TE position, and much, much more.
http://www.profootballfocus.com/
If fantasy statistics are the lord’s word, FFtoday is fantasy football’s bible. Along with the typical rankings, projections, daily articles and analysis, FFtoday has a database of every fantasy statistic produced since the year 2000. You can sort stats by individual position, by NFL season, then by a specific week of that season. You can literally find out who were the five (or 50) highest scoring running backs in Week 4 of the 2002 season. To no one’s surprise, Shaun Alexander topped that list finding pay dirt four times followed by a LaDainian Tomlinson performance of 217 rushing yards and two scores.
http://fftoday.com/stats/playerstats.php?Season=2014&GameWeek=&PosID=20&LeagueID=1
Both Twitter and fantasy football have seen meteoric growth in recent years. Twitter is no longer a social media funnel used for rattling off 140-word jokes that you stole, into a text box that never stops asking “What’s Happening?” There are over 235 million active monthly Twitter users.
Once you weed out the weather reporters, world crisis experts and horoscope fortune tellers, you’re left with a few dudes who know what they’re talking about in regards to fantasy football. And some who think they know what they’re talking about.
Next, we bring to you our list of top shelf Fantasy Football Twitter accounts you need to be following for this season.
“Senior Football Editor for Rotoworld & Dad to the cutest little girl.” Both of his bio descriptions might be true, but we can only corroborate the first one. Evan Silva is Rotoworld’s top dog. Rotoworld, as you may remember, landed on our list of top fantasy football sources.
In terms of analysis and fake football expertise, Silva is up there with the Matthew Berry’s of the fantasy world. When he’s not dropping bombs of fantasy knowledge on his followers, he’s tweeting links to podcasts that he’s featured on and publishing his team-by-team fantasy analysis write ups, which he’s been absolutely killing all offseason.
He’s an excellent writer and his fantasy evaluations are put in a way that’s easy to sort through and understand. Before reading number 2 on this list, fly over to Twitter and give Silva a follow. You won’t be disappointed.
Also featured on our list of the top fantasy football websites above, Pro Football Focus uses its Twitter account to churn out valuable and extremely unique statistics on the daily. The stats are numbers you could only find if you were a paying member to their service.
So, in reality, it’s a sneak preview of their “signature stats” and a behind the scenes look at the work they do over at PFF.
Don’t judge a book by its cover. That’s precisely the opposite of what you should do when you see the Twitter handle @FantasyDouche; the name just symbolizes the style of “tweeting” you’re going to get from him. Fantasy football mixed with comedy. And vice versa. He’s a RotoViz writer, consistently pumping out helpful articles, graphs with player “comps” (a Rotoviz term to compare cross-season statistics between players) and ADP trend charts.
Brad Evans, the 7-time award winning Yahoo Sports columnist, is another one of our favorite Twitter accounts to follow. Similar to our number three selection in this column, Noise (I want to say Brad self-proclaimed himself this) is whipping out witty, yet useful fantasy tidbits on the reg. He’s one of the truly talented writers that found himself in the fantasy industry, not the other way around. When he’s not yelling his opinion about the latest fantasy football conundrum, he’s offering out awful betting advice on college basketball. Buyer beware, he’s the guy telling you how much you NEED to draft Montee Ball, Felix Jones & Doug Martin in the first round.
Matthew Berry IS fantasy football. With more than 700k followers on Twitter, Berry has gone from merely a fantasy football expert to a full-time celebrity. To the surprise of many, Berry originally moved to Hollywood to be a screenwriter, earning credit for co-writing Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles (which was runner-up for a Razzie Award) and the television show Married… With Children. He knew he was destined for greater things in life, thus nomadically switching his career direction towards fantasy.
ESPN’s Senior Fantasy Sports Analyst, Matthew Berry, has been playing fantasy sports since he was 14 (1984), long before some of you knew that they existed. Probably long before some of you existed.
Needless to say, he knows his stuff, and he’s extremely talented on the keyboard. He tweets out links to his newest columns and podcasts, both of which I’d consider more than necessary if you want the upper hand come draft night.
That about wraps up this exhaustive list. Now you may as well start shopping for the perfect fantasy football championship ring!
]]>By “we having this discussion”, I simply mean the fantasy football community.
Customizing your league rules is cool and it's one of the things that make this game great, but sometimes leagues and commissioners are doing the most, and bad league settings can be more detrimental than enjoyable. Simply put, your fantasy football league rules and setting can make or break your season.
As the commissioner of a minimum 4 leagues each fantasy football season, for as long as I can remember, I can confidently say I’ve tested every league rule and setting out there: Scoring settings, waiver-wire rules, loser punishments, draft types, keepers, dynasty startups; pretty much the Hugh Hefner of fantasy football - you name it, I’ve done it.
Today, I’m going to share with you my absolute favorite rules, settings and customizations I’ve come across during my tenure as a fantasy football commissioner. Implement one, or all of them to your league and you’ll be in for an awesome 2024 fantasy football season.
There are too many problems with the current state of fantasy football waiver wires. Well, there are basically two types of them. The first is the standard one most of you are familiar with, where each week the waiver-wire order resets based on standings. The last place team is catapulted to the top of the pecking order, getting his or her choice of the crop of free agents, regardless of how many moves you made in the previous week/s. I assume only leagues consisting of members under the age of 14 use this setting, and only because it was the default and they don’t know how to change it. The second waiver-wire option, which isn’t terrible, but has its flaws, automatically moves the owner who has made the most recent free agent pick-up to the bottom of the waiver-wire order, where they sit until every single one of the other league mates make moves, assuming the guy who was just pushed to the bottom doesn't make any moves during that time. Obviously, you can pick up players during that time, but if anyone in your league attempts to pick up the guy that you want, you’re not getting your guy.
Both systems are flawed, the new wave is here my friends.
That wave being FAAB, or Free Agent Acquisition Budget. Each league member is given a fixed budget at the beginning of the szn. It doesn’t matter what the amount is. After testing numerous amounts, I prefer $100, but $500 or $1,000 is fine too, it’s all relative.
Each week, whenever waivers are normally processed, say Wednesday morning, instead of the waiver order determining who gets which players, there is a "blind bid". For example, it's Week 3 and Le'Veon Bell gets hurt, reports pin his timetable for return at 6-8 weeks. The biggest FA pickup this week, undoubtedly, is going to be James Conner, the Steelers second string running back (this might change, but just an example). Everyone knows this, there are no surprises here.
With the normal waiver-wire system, we already know whose team Conner will be on come Week 4 - whoever is sitting at #1. With the FAAB system, each player puts forth a bid using the FAAB budget they received at the beginning of the year. You can put $0, you could use all $100 of it, it’s up to you. No one besides you (assuming you put a bid in) can see how much your bid for Conner was until Wednesday morning after the bid processes. At that time, Conner is awarded to the team that bid the highest amount of their FAAB. If two league members bid the same amount, it looks at who has made the most recent move to tie-break it. It's by far the fairest way to do the waiver wire.
The only argument I usually have to have with people when it comes to FAAB is what happens after the bid processes on Wednesday: do the remaining players go into the free agency pool where any league member can pick them up at any time from Wednesday through Sunday? That could work, what we do in my big ca$h league is set it up (which Yahoo allows you to do by going to Settings -> League Settings) as shown below:
So, instead of having the players go into the open market, we actually have the blind bid set up to process every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. That way it keeps the FAAB process rolling at all times. If a player gets hurt on Friday, you still have to go through a blind bid for their backup, which will process on Saturday morning.
I get why the regular WW's are set up the way they are. But, in my opinion, you shouldn't be penalized for 1) Being good at fantasy football & having a good record and 2) For picking up free agents regularly, they're there for the taking. Thus, FAAB is the ultimate waiver-wire system.
***Pro tip, if you're using FAAB in your league for the first time, your league mates will likely be super cautious when doing their bidding, so if there's a guy that you really want, don't hesitate to spend 15, 30 or even 50% of your FAAB on him. If you run out of FAAB budget, you're still able to pick up players with your $0 budget, but anyone can outbid you with $1.
The QB scoring in fantasy football is something that needs to be adjusted too, and this is coming from someone who preaches the late-round QB tactic because it's just so easy to not care about the position and get by without having to invest any draft capital or easily stream the position week-to-week.
The problem I have with the normal fantasy setting what it comes to the QB position is that quarterbacks play an enormous role in real football, but quite the opposite in fantasy football. It shouldn’t be that way. So, I suggest changing your settings to a 2QB league, where you have to start 2QBs OR the scoring rules so that each passing touchdown is worth 6 points instead of 4 AND an interception penalty is either -3 or -4 points.
Drafting a QB in round 10, 11 or even 15 has become so easy because even if you miss, there are going to be 8 usable QBs sitting on the waiver wire that you can stream any give Sunday, shoutout Willie Beamen. A 2QB league forces you to take a different approach, because having two of them will ensure a large percentage of your weekly points come from the position. It also means that at a minimum, 20 QBs will be rostered in your league (assuming your league size is at least 10 teams). And you can almost guarantee that the majority of people will take a third quarterback now. There are only 32 starting QBs in the world, so if 24 are starting and the rest are rostered, your streaming/FA options are minimal, if available at all. It makes the position extremely valuable. It makes trading way more likely in your league too.
If your league is insistent on starting a single QB, that's fine, but you should change the scoring. Boost up not only the good that comes along with exceptional quarterback play (TDs), but raise the stakes with stricter interception penalties. When QBs are getting 6 points rather than 4 points for a score, and losing much more per interception, those late-round quarterbacks who used to suffice in fantasy, and are barely average real-world QBs, start to look a lot less like roses and a lot more like Rosie O'Donnell. An interception in a real game kills the team. It should at least give your fantasy team a smack. For instance, Philip Rivers’ 2016 szn, he finished as QB6 in fantasy despite leading the NFL with 21 interceptions and his team to a 5-11 record... I’m sorry but I just don’t think he should be awarded for being terrible. It mitigates garbage time points as well, for the most part. Because, if your team is truly in garbage time, it's most likely because your QB was shitty all game, and turned the ball over on his route to garbage time.
For the most part, draft day has come down to taking a plethora of running backs and wide receivers. Quarterbacks and tight ends have become an afterthought, something you don’t have to worry about until double-digit rounds are the only open slots on your draft board. But with either of these QB scoring formats, it adds an extra dynamic to your league and makes draft day that much more fun. Drafting quality quarterbacks becomes a priority.
This really should go without saying. If you're still playing in a standard scoring league you probably own a flip phone, or start every sentence with “back in my day”, or have loose mints in your pocket.
0.5 PPR is the perfect blend of standard scoring and full PPR. Full PPR also pisses me off.. a player shouldn't get a full point for simply catching the ball and falling to the ground. #AllCatchesAreNotCreatedEqual2018
Half-point per reception opens up a new pool of players to have an impact in fantasy football, that normally wouldn’t in standard leagues. Mainly the running backs who play a big role on their teams as pass-catchers (I.E. Theo Riddick, Duke Johnson, etc.). Without some sort of PPR format, you wouldn't think twice about starting a Theo Riddick, who will probably get somewhere between 40-60 total yards, with a 25-30% chance of finding paydirt on a given week. Throw in 5 receptions, and his weekly fantasy floor is around 7 points. It's not a huge boost, but useful nonetheless and again, makes draft day that much better because the player pool is more expansive.
EVERY league should have some sort of keeper rule implemented. It not only keeps the league engaged throughout the offseason, but it (you keep hearing this) changes the dynamic of draft day!!!!!!
Keepers can absolutely be a double-edged sword, however. Too many can ruin a league. I’ve been in leagues with anywhere from 1 to 5 players can be kept for the following season. I, along with my big-money-league members, have agreed that having one, just a solo keeper is optimal.
But that's not it. How your keeper rule is set up is arguably more important than how many keepers you allow.
For my friends and I (and any of you that do a live draft for your league), draft night is easily the most enjoyable night of the football season. But if Le'Veon Bell, Todd Gurley, DeAndre Hopkins, Aaron Rodgers, Odell Beckham, etc. are already off the board before the draft starts, draft night REALLY isn't that much fun. The smaller the player pool is, the less fun it is, in my humble opinion.
That is why our rule is this: Any player drafted in the 8th round or later can be kept the following season. No free agents whatsoever.
It’s set up in a way to minimize any ridiculous advantage a league owner can have going into the following season. Every year there are players that bust tf out who weren't drafted at all in the previous fantasy season. For instance, if you allow free agents to be keepers.. Whoever picked up Alvin Kamara in 2017 has a monster advantage for 2018. That league member is virtually receiving an additional first round pick along with the one he already has. I understand the argument... he should be rewarded for noticing the player and picking him up last year!!!
He was... by having him on his team last year. He got all of Kamara’s production, all season and didn't have to pay any draft capital. It's the same reason we have the keeper round set at 8. We originally started with Round 6, and the same thing happened, too many really good players were still drafted that early. Every year there are a few 6th rounders that end up being first or second-rounders in the next season, and it didn't take any real research or skill to pick them in the 6th round. We eventually pushed it back to the 10th round which I personally liked the most since it rewards the league members who do their research and are nice with the late-round picks. At the time when our rule was 10th round or later, we also allowed two players to be kept, not one. That led to my friend CHRIS R., who I’ll keep anonymous, being able to keep both David Johnson and Jordy Nelson... that happened to be the szn both guys ranked #1 in fantasy at their position. Sufficient to say, the league wasn't much fun for the other 9 of us.
Thus, we eventually settled on round 8, with one keeper. It's late enough in the draft that people who don't do their research likely won't get lucky hitting on a future first rounder, and if they do, that's all the damage they can do, they can't keep anyone else.
The best part about keepers is its ability to keep you engaged all off-szn. You're thinking about who you can keep, should you trade him? Yes, we allow keeper trades. You can trade your keeper for someone elses, or for a draft pick - just make sure that at the end of the trade every player must still have the same number of draft picks (or draft picks + keepers). If you trade away a keeper player for a draft pick, then you just take away the last round pick of the league member that is keeping someone.
If your keeper rule is set for round 8, you might start drafting differently once that round 8 hits. Rather than taking a high-floor vet, you might take a swing on a rookie running back who is behind a veteran on the depth chart, but that veteran’s contract expires at the end of this year. Stay woke.
Dynasty leagues are great too, but it’s a LOT of commitment to be in one and operate successfully. You need to make sure that every single league member is active and in it for the long haul - I’m talking years on years on years.
If you ain't playing for something, what's the point?
Thanks to FantasyJocks me and my homies are hooked up with and play for a gorgeous FantasyJocks Championship Belt:
AND a Championship Ring!
and that's just the icing on top of the hefty money-prize. Have each league-mate chip in an additional $5 or $15 on top of their league buy-in to grab a belt, trophy or ring and you'll be gucci. I highly suggest the belt, you pay once and it’ll last years. Bring it to your buddy’s house on Sundays. Bring it to the mall. Bring it to the bar. (just a few places my friends have been with ours) I don’t care. It’s an amazing, high-quality novelty item.
As for your league’s LOSER.... woooo boy - this is arguably my favorite part about my big league. During our annual summer meeting where we discuss rule changes for the upcoming szn, we also decide upon a loser punishment for the upcoming year. We've gotten progressively better, or worse makes more sense, at picking a punishments. We started off with the loser standing shirtless in the middle of our town, in January, with a loser sign. Sorry Joe.
Last year, ya man himself had to do a 5-minute stand up comedy gig at a comedy club in New York City... My league mates were the ones who got to write my jokes...
This is me ^, and everything I’m writing about in this article is #facts. I’ve done it all.
Our league motto quickly became - "If you ain't last... you're first."
This year, our league loser will transform himself into a bathroom attendant at a club for a night. Handing out paper towels, mints, condoms, whatever, he can keep the tips. Lol, Joe (pictured above shirtless) lost again.
Regardless, a punishment ensures everyone plays fully through the entire szn, and to be perfectly honest, watching the last place race is actually more exhilarating than the race for the belt. As long as you’re not in it.
What'd we miss? Let hear some of the best rules changes you've implemented into your league.
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