Dynasty Blueprint: Week Four

Editor's Note: Ryan debuted the Dynasty Blueprint term all the way back in 2014, focusing on his personal dynasty strategy and philosophy. He introduced ideas like punting running backs and the now-common productive struggle. This series expands on the original, providing an in-depth look inside his dynasty mind.

This is my personal weekly Dynasty Blueprint. Here, you’ll find my “Game Notes,” which comes directly from my fantasy football notebook, along with multiple post-game conversations with others. In the “Game Play” section, I’ll explain what I’m doing with my personal dynasty teams, including waiver wire targets and trade ideas. Finally, “Game Theory” will focus on dynasty strategy.

GAME NOTES

Lions vs. Packers

Many were not happy with how the Lions used rookie Jahmyr Gibbs against the Packers. With veteran David Montgomery back in the lineup, Gibbs usage reverted to what we saw the first two weeks. Playing 37% of the snaps, Gibbs drew 12 touches and finished as the RB23 on the week. This is frustrating for those who spent the 1.02 pick on the former Bama back, but this is what we will see moving forward. I was also a big believer in Gibbs this offseason and aggressively ranked him as my dynasty RB2. I’ve since dropped him down below Christian McCaffrey and Breece Hall.

Sam LaPorta is the new dynasty TE4, according to DLF’s new October dynasty ADP. He’s overtaken Kyle Pitts, Dallas Goedert, George Kittle, and more. Next up are the veterans, TJ Hockenson, Mark Andrews, and Travis Kelce.

Falcons vs. Jaguars

Travis Etienne was just fine in this London game, totaling 72 yards and finishing just inside the RB2 range. His usage is very encouraging though. Etienne saw 23 of the 27 backfield opportunities and played over 84% of the snaps. Things could have been even worse for Etienne without his agility. He’s third in the league with 190 yards after contact on rush attempts.

One player who was not fine in London was Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder. A pair of first-half ugly interceptions, including a pick-six, could’ve sent Ridder to the bench with Taylor Heinicke getting a shot. That didn’t happen and Ridder found Drake London for a touchdown early in the second half. I’m not confident that London, Kyle Pitts, and the offense would be in better hands with Heinicke, but I’d like to find out.