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I have played fantasy football for a very long time. You, too, have perhaps played fantasy football for a very long time. Something like 40 million of us do, CNN reported last year, and the business has grown into a billion-dollar endeavor as more and more people have piled in.
There are two ways to win a fantasy football league. The first is to seek out a league with a bunch of people who don’t follow football closely, take advantage of their lack of knowledge, and trick them into drafting bad players instead of simply auto-drafting. The second way is to put lots of thought and preparation into your team, and then get lucky. In other words, there’s no easy way to win a competitive league, but there are some key strategies to follow.
Whether 2021 is your first time or your 20th time playing fantasy football, here are five tricks of the trade that I hope lead you to dominance this fall.
There’s a reason some fantasy GMs don’t want the other teams in their league to auto-draft: The machines have become pretty smart. You’ll wind up with a perfectly fine fantasy football team if you let a robot pick for you. Will you win your league? Probably not. But the auto-draft functions at ESPN, Yahoo, CBS, and other fantasy platforms will generally make it easy for you to field a competent roster.
These algorithms take the highest-ranked consensus player (consensus on the part of “experts” or computers, anyway), and they’ll gradually fill out your roster from there. You will not wind up taking a defense or a kicker in the fifth round.
You won’t do a better job than a machine if you do zero research and then punch in manual picks on the fly. To prepare, cross-reference some cheat sheets to see how different players stack up across them all. That makes it less likely you’ll find an outlier, fall in love with that player, and draft him way too early. ESPN, CBS, and NBC all provide fantasy rankings. Get the lay of the land, and give yourself a chance to get lucky once toe meets leather.
Running backs are, generally speaking, the most valuable producers in most fantasy formats. They get the ball the most, they get carries when teams are right near the goal line, and in an NFL that increasingly relies on backs to be pass-catchers, they rack up even more points in PPR (point per reception) leagues.
Someone in your league might decide they can find a running back later in the draft or on the waiver wire later in the year. They’ll rationalize the decision by noting that running backs rise and fall quickly in the modern NFL. They do, but everyone else will also be looking to snap up some breakout star who runs for three touchdowns in Week 6. Better to grab one early. This same advice tracks if you’re using an auction draft format: Invest in dependable RBs.
The highest ranked TE in #NFLTop100 history.
Put some respect on @TKelce’s name. pic.twitter.com/BD3i0dspPM
— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) August 28, 2021
The Kansas City Chiefs’ Travis Kelce and the Las Vegas Raiders’ Darren Waller are worth early fantasy picks because they are essentially wide receivers in tight ends’ bodies. The San Francisco 49ers’ George Kittle might turn out to be similarly valuable. After that, things get tricky.
I do not feel confident telling you that your season depends on whether you draft the fourth-ranked or ninth-ranked tight end on your board, especially if that ninth-ranked tight end is a young player who appears to have some upside. Maybe look at Kyle Pitts, the Atlanta Falcons rookie whom cheat sheets have ranked around No. 6 among tight ends. He might be top-three. Similarly, someone like the Baltimore Ravens’ Mark Andrews might be ranked fourth or fifth on your board and turn out to be the seventh or eighth most valuable TE.
For one thing, it’s incredibly hard to predict which of these players will get you the most fantasy points—especially kickers, whose output often comes down to how often their offenses stall in field goal range without scoring a touchdown. For another, the difference between the best and the rest is just not that big at these positions. In a standard scoring format in 2020, the most valuable fantasy defense (the Los Angeles Rams) was worth 9.9 points per week. The 12th-best defense (i.e., the worst starting defense in a 12-team fantasy league) was the New England Patriots at 5.6.
It’s fun to say you have the best kicker in your league. It just won’t help you win the league.
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Author: Alex Kirshner
Richard Branson’s July flight to the edge of space is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration for veering out of its designated airspace mid-flight, the FAA said on Wednesday after a report from The New Yorker. The mission’s two pilots were alerted to yellow and red light warnings mid-flight that, according to sources in The New Yorker, should’ve prompted them to abort the mission. The flight continued and ultimately landed safely.
Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo spaceplane air-launched from its carrier aircraft on July 11th carrying founder Branson and three company employees over the firm’s New Mexico spaceport, Spaceport America. The rocket plane soared 53.5 miles high, skimming the edge of space for a few minutes of…
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Author: Joey Roulette
Snaking over 3,000 miles from the Canadian border down to Mexico, the Continental Divide Trail passes through some of the most rugged country in the American West, and presents a daunting test for anyone willing to take it on. The trail’s reputation for scenic beauty and challenging terrain was also the point of inspiration for the latest Run Amok collection from Roark. The new installment, which is primarily aimed at trail runners, features hand-drawn graphics and a whole suite of technical fabrics—including performance fleece, a first for the collection. Taken together, these pieces are designed to perform in tough environments and feel comfortable enough for travel and everyday wear, too.
Here’s a closer look at some of the key pieces in the collection.
A longer edition of Roark’s five-inch Alta shorts, this new version is made with four-way stretch nylon for a lightweight feel that won’t restrict your movement, and includes a built-in moisture-wicking liner for chafe-free miles. A drawstring waist ensures a snug fit, and two strategically placed pockets near the hips store gels and keys so they won’t bounce or distract mid-stride (it comes with a zippered rear pocket, too).
[$79; roark.com]
Perfect for unpredictable shoulder season conditions, the Second Wind Anorak is made from a lightweight ripstop fabric that blocks wind and resists moisture (thanks to its DWR finish) and really breathes, so you won’t overheat. And when the sun comes out, you can zip it up into its own chest pocket for easy carrying.
[$125; roark.com]
Named after a park in Laguna Beach, CA (where Roark has its headquarters), this fleece pant is designed for maximum comfort and versatility. It’s made from a nylon stretch fabric for unrestricted freedom of movement, features double-sided fleece for a soft feel, and has a tapered fit. A drawstring waist and zippered pockets ensure it’s good to go, even when you’re hauling around your phone, wallet, keys, and other essentials.
[$99; roark.com]
Made with the same materials as the pants above, the El Morro Hoodie delivers big on comfort. In addition to the cozy fleece, hand pockets at the front and the drawstring hood will keep you toasty warm when temps start drop or the wind picks up.
[$119; roark.com]
Check out the full Run Amok collection on the Roark website.
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Author: Michael Charboneau
Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed, a new documentary about the late painter and television personality, has caused controversy for some of the ways it depicts his family relationships and business dealings. The Onion looks at the biggest revelations from the new Bob Ross documentary.
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LOS ANGELES—Chilled by the inescapable parallels between the hit Hulu program and his own life, local man George Avery reported Wednesday that it was almost as though he were in an episode of The Handmaid’s Tale while standing next to Elisabeth Moss. “Jesus, I never thought I’d live to see the day that the dystopia of…
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You’ve got sports-viewing parties and tailgates, barbecues and brunches, happy hours and birthdays. Sure, fun lies ahead, but first, there comes the stress of what to bring. Regifting that bottle of wine or weird ice cube tray won’t do. Instead, impress your host with any of these stellar gifts. From canned cocktails to top-of-the-line cookware, with some blankets, bags, and BBQ swag thrown in the mix, you’re sure to find the best hosting gifts for every event on your calendar.
Your pitmaster for the evening already spent the whole day prepping the feast. Give ‘em the night off bartending duties with any of these six canned renditions of classic low-ball cocktails. In the “stirred” category, they’ve got the negroni, Manhattan, and old fashioned, while the “shaken” offerings give you mouth-watering takes on the margarita, daiquiri, and Bee’s Knees.
[$32 for an eight-pack; tiptopcocktails.com]
Treat the Chef de Cuisine to an engraved Great Jones best-seller, like the Big Deal Pot or Deep Cut Sauté Pan. You can add their name, monogram, or that signature dish they love making on the lid. When the night’s over, they’ll be glad they can pop these pots and pans in the dishwasher for easy cleanup.
[from $115; greatjonesgoods.com]
Your buddy loves beer. He loves being a barbecue wizard. Here’s the best of both worlds in one amazing marinade, that also doubles as a sauce. Flavors on offer are Japanese Miso BBQ, Mexican Tres Chiles, and Szechuan Black Vinegar. As the name implies, you simply add your favorite beer when cooking up your next marinade, stir fry, or snack dip. Ingredients like kombu (a type of seaweed), tomatoes, and miso give the condiment depth of flavor. Just Add Beer works just as well on a grilled steak as it does on roasted veggies.
[$12; justadd.topset.co]
A practical gift that anyone who invites you into their home will surely appreciate, these cozy blankets come in an array of patterns and neutral colors, and all are machine washable to boot. We recommend the Cape and Islands Ocean Blue Blanket ($135), with maps designed on the exterior, to evoke the bliss of summer all year round.
[from $55; chappywrap.com]
Enhance your host’s cheeseboard spread with these lip-smacking jams that also work atop sandwiches, burgers, or mixed into marinades. The set includes the original Tommy Jam, Hot Tommy (made with fresh habaneros for some heat), and Tommy en Provence (which offers herbaceous notes).
[$45; elteegoods.com]
Keep drinks and snacks cold all day long with this best-in-class soft cooler, now available in new fall colors. Or, spring for an MLB hard cooler for the baseball superfan in your life with the logo of their favorite sports team emblazoned on top. Either way, bottoms up to a good, good time with this over-the-top splurge people wouldn’t likely buy for themselves, but will be so happy to own.
[$250; yeti.com]
For the home-cooking aficionado, this lineup of seven olive oils and vinegar will be their new partner in crime in the kitchen, and a design-forward ode to accouterments they can proudly display. The set also includes a spout made with brush gold and stainless steel for drizzly perfection with each flip of the bottle. For something easier on the wallet, try The Mini Essentials ($70)—a collection of the brand’s best-selling products.
[$230; brightland.co]
What better way to celebrate the purchase of a new home than with this charming personalized portrait of their digs? We’re also fans of Minted’s custom map art (from $65, framed) to transform a special map of their former stomping grounds or new environs into visually pleasing wall art.
[from $58 framed; minted.com]
Help anoint your buddy’s new backyard with this beautiful hammock, perfect for post-game power naps or evening reading sessions. What’s more, by purchasing a handwoven hammock through Yellow Leaf, you’re helping Thai craftspeople and their families build a better future for themselves. For $299, you can design your own pattern.
[$199; yellowleafhammocks.com]
You know sauce is serious business when it was meticulously created by acclaimed chefs Mario Carbone and Rich Torrisi. The tomato-based sauce set includes two jars of marinara, and a jar each of Arrabbiata and tomato basil. With sauces made in small batches and featuring a medley of fresh ingredients like Italian-grown tomatoes and whole onions and garlic, expect a quality product that elevates any pasta dish. Bring it to your next family dinner to jazz up Dad’s famous eggplant parm. P.S. A roasted garlic version of the sauce launches soon.
[$40; carbonefinefood.com]
Oenophiles will rejoice in this curated selection of natural wines delivered to their door on a monthly basis (choose a three-, six-, or 12-month membership). Red, white, mixed, rosé, and sparkling wines are up for the choosing, and all vinos are organically grown and independently tested for purity, so you can ensure they live up to the “natural” moniker, meaning they’re made following strict criteria and free of a long list of FDA-approved additives.
[from $94 per shipment; dryfarmwines.com]
Help your host upgrade their tablescape with a delivery of potted plants or flowers. You can either do a one-off order or, if you have a subscription and know you have an event that month, you can have your delivery shipped directly to the recipient. Some current favorites are Monstera Magic ($99), the Farmer’s Market Gift Trio ($114), and Gold Rush ($49).
[From $38 à la carte or memberships from $36; bouqs.com]
This grilling apron was designed for ‘cue enthusiasts to practice their craft with ease, featuring 10 pockets, a carabiner, and five D-ring clips to keep accessories at the ready. It’s made of a durable, washable fabric, and crafted under the guidance of barbecue pitmasters and chefs to ensure it’s the applewood of anyone’s eye.
[$89; grillkilt.com]
Speaking of grilling aficionados, up the ante on a BBQ with these chips sourced from 100 percent Minnesota white oak barrels used to age Tattersall Whiskey for more than two years. Flavor-wise, the whiskey-ed white oak provides notes of mild sweetness and vanilla to coax nuanced layers of sapor from every dish on the grill. These suckers are sublime for smoking.
[$15 for a four-pound bag; tattersall-distilling.myshopify.com]
Home team driving the crew crazy or just pull off an epic play? Time for a shot. Gathering to celebrate someone’s birthday? Ditto. Six thick, textured glass shooters arrive in this attractive, mission-style wrought iron stand with a garnish tray for victuals like salt, limes, lemons, and perhaps some electrolyte powder packets for all the damage you’re about to do.
[$138; oliveandcocoa.com]
Bring wine or other small items like napkin rings, a framed photo, and the like for a party or birthday in this elegant leather tote, then gift the bag as part of the plunder. Available in brown, black, and olive, every purchase of this bag creates two hours of employment to the brand’s Ethiopian team.
[$138; parkerclay.com]
Eat, sip an apéritif, and be merry with this delightful assortment of beverages available in flavors like Lemon Lavender, Grapefruit Jalapeño, Citrus Flower, and more. You can add to spirits and wine (grape brandy and Chardonnay grapes play nice in all the flavor profiles), or imbibe it straight on the rocks, We’re partial to Ginger Yuzu with its namesake ingredients: lemongrass, orange peel, dried cherries, rooibos tea, ginger tea, and organic cane sugar.
[$50; drink.haus]
Help your pal set the mood with this handsome candle, fragranced with notes of bergamot, vetiver, leather, and spices. Crafted with a soy-coconut wax blend, the candles are hand-poured by refugee women in Western Massachusetts, so you can feel good about empowering these talented makers with every purchase.
[$48; shopgentlemanfarmer.com]
Got a beer trade on the horizon? The organizer will be thrilled to be on the receiving end of this trio of two pint glasses and a 64-ounce growler. Choose the colors for each in the bundle, and rest assured the lifetime warranty means these products are engineered for the long haul. For wine clubs, opt for the wine gift set.
[$96; brumate.com]
Steak night made better. Made in France, this set includes knives made with wood grips from different trees (ebony, olive, tulip, rose, juniper, and boxwood), all presented in a beechwood box. FYI: They’re easy to re-sharpen and last for years. If you’re in the market for some steak knives, too, go ahead and treat yourself.
[$250; amazon.com]
Every good get-together deserves a fun card game. Wow your amigos with this quick-to-learn game that lasts for around 30 minutes and works with four to 12+ players. Expect a lot of laughs—and to learn a thing or two about your friends’ creativity.
[$20; amazon.com]
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Author: Perri O. Blumberg
The hottest new show on Netflix is a laugh-track laden sitcom about nothing that aired its last episode in 1998. You guessed it: Seinfeld is making its debut on the streaming platform, confirming its status as one of the most successful TV series ever. Starting this October, all 180 episodes of the beloved ’90s sitcom (spanning nine seasons) will be available to watch on Netflix.
Netflix announced the move with a short, tongue-in-cheek trailer and a sly press release that teased “2021’s hottest new show” created by “rising stars Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld.”
“This is the first time we’ve taken a risk of this nature, going all in on 9 seasons at the jump,” Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said in a statement quoted by the Los Angeles Times.
All 180 episodes of Seinfeld hit Netflix on October 1 pic.twitter.com/H73RZvNUw9
— Netflix (@netflix) September 1, 2021
Rest assured, there’s nothing new about this show—you’ll still get the same antics from Elaine, George, Jerry, and Kramer and all of the “adventures” they get themselves into, including getting lost in a parking garage, having heated conversations in Tom’s Restaurant, and generally dealing with the ups and downs of living in New York City in the ’90s. Even on TV, it seems, some things never change.
It’s also a clear confirmation that creators Seinfeld and David struck gold with their first series—an unlikely success story in a tough industry. In a joking statement, Seinfeld downplayed making one of the most well-known shows ever to grace a TV screen.
“Larry and I are enormously grateful to Netflix for taking this chance on us. It takes a lot of guts to trust two schmucks who literally had zero experience in television when we made this thing,” Seinfeld said. “We really got carried away, I guess. I didn’t realize we made so many of them. Hope to recoup god knows how many millions it must have taken to do. But worth all the work if people like it. Crazy project.”
Whether you’re a die-hard Seinfeld fan or haven’t yet learned who the Soup Nazi is, now’s your chance to dive in—all the episodes will be available to watch on Netflix on Oct. 1.
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Author: Michael Charboneau
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Author: Gear Team
Luminox
On September 11, 2001, first responders in New York and in Washington DC found themselves called into action, embodying the very meaning of the word, “hero.” Afraid or not, they streamed into the burning Twin Towers of the World Trade Center and the shattered Pentagon, hellbent on doing their jobs, regardless of the consequences.
As the 20th anniversary of that terrible day approaches, Luminox has launched the 3500 Never Forget Series, watches created in remembrance of those who lost their lives serving the public good during an unprecedented moment of national crisis.
Luminox
Luminox’s “Never Forget” series isn’t just intended to remember the sacrifices made that day, but a portion of the profits from watch sales will also benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Founded by his older brother to honor FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, Tunnel to Towers has for 20 years been supporting those who still risk their lives each day with efforts like mortgage-free homes for injured vets and first responders as well as aid for the families of those who have fallen in the line of duty.
In a news release accompanying the launch of this line, Luminox U.S. CEO Lluis Sole said, “It feels like yesterday and a lifetime ago when the country suffered the most devastating terrorist attack in the history of the nation. On 9/11, 403 police officers, firefighters, and paramedics lost their lives.”
Luminox
“This collection brings attention to this tremendous loss,” Sole continued, “and will remind all of us to never forget.”
The 3500 Never Forget Series is a classic Luminox product. It comes in a deep black colorway, which the watchmaker says is “the darkest of all Luminox watches.”
Luminox
As part of commemorating 9/11 first responders, numbers 9 & 11 on the Never Forget Series dial are highlighted with bright white super-luminova. When it’s dark and the watch is in night view, blue tritium tubes set those numerals apart, a touch that Luminox said in a press release is meant to remind us to “Never Forget.”
The Twin Towers are engraved on the case back along with that legend at their base. Each watch in this limited edition run has been specially numbered with this format: XXX/911.
It’s Luminox tough as well, with a lightweight but tough 45mm CARBONOX™ case.
Per the manufacturer, here are additional features found on the 3500 Never Forget Series of watches:
– Swiss Made
– Numbers will be visible under most light conditions for up to 25 years
– Function: time / date
– Water-resistant to 660 feet
– Swiss quartz movement
– Unidirectional bezel
– Stainless steel screwed on case back
– Hardened mineral glass crystal
– Screw-in crown with double seal
– 24mm rubber strap
The Luminox 3500 Never Forget series retails for $495. Get yours at Luminox.com.
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Author: Steve Huff
