Fantasy Football Guide

All fantasy football enthusiasts understand the importance of the draft. It represents the basis for all strategies and techniques. To make the best moves and win cash, make sure you check the information presented in this Fantasy Football Guide.

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Where to Start: Fantasy Football Basics

If you’re wondering how to begin your fantasy football journey, you’re in the right place. Starting with the fundamentals, such as understanding player positions, drafting strategies, and scoring systems, will provide a solid foundation.

In this section, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to embark on your fantasy football adventure and help you make informed decisions from the get-go. Before making an account on a DFS operator such as Sleeper Fantasy, we recommend reading the text below. Let’s explore where to start in the exciting world of fantasy football. However, if you prefer to concentrate on other sports as well, you might want to check out what a fantasy sports league is first.

Where to Start: A Step-by-Step Guide for Fantasy Football Beginners

If you’re new to fantasy football, taking the first steps can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Follow this step-by-step guide to kickstart your fantasy football journey:

  1. Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the fundamental concepts of fantasy football, including player positions, drafting strategies, and scoring systems. Understanding these basics will set the stage for your involvement in the game.
  2. Join a League: Find a fantasy football league to join. Whether it’s with friends, colleagues, or on an online platform, participating in a league is the best way to immerse yourself in the experience.
  3. Mock Drafts: Before your actual draft, practice with mock drafts. This allows you to experiment with different strategies, understand player values, and get a feel for the drafting process.
  4. Player Research: Stay informed about NFL players. Know the star performers, up-and-coming talents, and potential sleepers. This knowledge will be invaluable during the draft.
  5. Understand Scoring Rules: Each league may have its own scoring rules. Whether it’s a standard league or one with custom settings, grasp how points are awarded for various player actions.
  6. Draft Strategy: Develop a draft strategy based on your league settings. Consider the importance of different positions and balance your roster accordingly.
  7. Player Management: As the season progresses, stay active in managing your roster. Keep an eye on player injuries, bye weeks, and potential trades to optimize your team’s performance.
  8. Enjoy the Experience: Fantasy football is not just about winning; it’s about enjoying the game, connecting with fellow participants, and having fun. Embrace the community aspect of fantasy football and savor the excitement of each game week.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a successful and enjoyable fantasy football season.

Fantasy Football Scoring System

The standard fantasy football scoring system awards points to players based on their in-game performances. Here’s a basic breakdown:

  1. Touchdowns: Players score points when they reach the end zone, whether it’s rushing, receiving, or passing.
  2. Yardage: Running, catching, or throwing for yards adds points. Typically, more yards mean more points.
  3. Receptions: In some leagues, catching the ball earns additional points, known as PPR (Points Per Reception).
  4. Kicking: Kickers rack up points for successful field goals and extra points.

Defense: Defensive teams gain points for turnovers, sacks, and touchdowns.

The exact point values can vary between leagues, but these categories form the foundation of most standard scoring systems. Understanding your league’s specific scoring rules is key to building a winning fantasy football strategy!

The Power of the Quarterbacks

It is important to understand that the value of your quarterbacks depends on several factors, including:

  • the number of teams in the league you choose;
  • your scoring system;
  • the number of quarterbacks you decide to start with;
  • the starting position players based in RB/WR.

When it comes to the scoring system, it is important to know that, things like the number of points received for a touchdown/passing yard, or the results of interceptions, they all affect the value of your quarterbacks.

RB/RB or WR/WR?

Many people wonder whether it is better to opt for RB/RB or WR/WR in a standard league. The answer to this question depends on various circumstances.

The main rule says that you can opt for the best RB or WR while any combination can lead to favorable results. However, here is what you need to know about each of them.

Running backs are more productive than receivers because they tend to score more points. This means that there are higher opportunities for touchdowns and better week-to-week production. As they are prone to injuries, and the RB/RB approach can lose its value.

Receivers are known to be durable, but they come with a volatile production because they score fewer touchdowns. The plus point is that top receivers can be used in the long run, and this can be a major plus in setting the draft.

As can be seen, the safer approach is to go for RB/WR for extra flexibility and positive results.

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About the Tight End

There are several things that all fantasy sports enthusiasts need to know about tight ends:

  • they are prone to injuries;
  • they need to be able to both block and receive;
  • they lack upside;
  • they are not consistent.

Based on these facts, it is a good idea to start only with one tight end. Furthermore, an RB/WR approach needs to be continued with a TE or QB.

Team Defenses vs. Kickers

If you plan to focus on defenses or kickers, it is best to think twice. Here are the significant aspects that need to be considered:

  • They don’t play an important role in total scoring.
  • Though there are plenty of choices available, it’s best to start only with one of them.
  • Their quality is almost impossible to predict so you can leave such investments in later rounds.

The Point-Per-Reception Leagues, or PPR

If you are a fan of such leagues, here is what you need to focus on to achieve the best results: running backs and possession receivers. At the same time, avoid backs that lack catching passes.

Individual Defensive Player Leagues, or IDP

As IDP leagues are very popular these days, there are so many variations available. In this case, the most valuable players are those who make a lot of tackles. So, it’s a smart idea to focus on inside and middle linebackers.

Distance Scoring Leagues

The Distance Scoring Leagues put great emphasis on longer touchdowns. As a result, if you wish to get some extra points, you need to consider upgrading big-players.

NFL Bye Weeks

Bye weeks are not as bad as they sound. At this point, people usually opt for either missing multiple players from the lineup for one week or making compromises for several weeks. The fact is that you must not let them interfere with your draft-day decision making.

FAQ

What is a dynasty league in fantasy football?

A dynasty league in fantasy football is a unique format where team owners build and manage their rosters with a long-term perspective. It’s like having a fantasy football team, but with a twist. You don’t start from scratch each season – instead, you keep most of your players. It’s a long-term game with drafts, trades, and team development, allowing you to build your own football dynasty!

What’s Best Ball fantasy football?

Best Ball is like fantasy football on autopilot. You draft your dream team, and that’s it – no worrying about changing lineups, making trades, or second-guessing. The magic happens behind the scenes. The platform picks your top-performing players each week based on their real game stats. It’s all the fun of drafting without the season-long fuss

When is the best round to draft a quarterback in fantasy football?

In most standard leagues, quarterbacks are often drafted in the middle to later rounds. This is because there is usually a good depth of talent at the position, and top-tier running backs and wide receivers are typically prioritized in the early rounds. However, if an elite quarterback is a high priority for your team, aiming for the middle rounds can strike a balance between securing a top player and maximizing value for other key positions.

How many tight ends should I draft in fantasy football?

The number of tight ends to draft depends on your league format and scoring rules. In standard leagues, one starting tight end is typical, and drafting just one is common. However, some leagues may have a flex position that allows tight ends, or even two tight end starting slots.

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