This is the part where I normally tell you that you can't give up on your team after one week. But after thinking about it, there might be cases where you have to admit it's already over.
Let's say you're the New York Giants, for example. It's okay to accept that your team is cooked. The Panthers, too. Those teams are not going to turn it around this year. They'll win some games (I assume) but they won't be a factor in anything but perhaps a race for the top pick in next year's draft. I’ve seen enough. Those teams are done after week 1.
But your fantasy team? Absolutely not. Don't let one week's disappointment influence your decisions going forward.
It doesn't matter if you lost by 50 points, you lost by picking the wrong kicker or defense, or if you lost Puca Nacua. You know it's only one game. The problem is that you waited months for this one game, so it feels more important. The letdown hits harder. That's natural. So while you'll say "It's just one game" to yourself, you might be saying it through your teeth, and with a scowl on your face as you look at your roster. You're saying the right things, but your mindset is all wrong.
I'm encouraging you to do more than pay lip service to the notion that you can't feel much of anything yet about your team. You need to really believe it, otherwise you'll be prone to making bad decisions. Your guys don't need to be on a short leash like Cade York, who was cut by Washington after missing two field goals and sending a kickoff out of bounds in week 1. Unless your fantasy kicker was actually Cade York, of course, but I doubt anybody started him. For everybody else, it's just too early.
That goes for the cocky winners in week 1 as well. Trash talk is part of the game, so fire away at your opponent. But don't really start believing it yourself. Baker Mayfield will not be throwing 68 touchdowns this year. The next time you face Amon-Ra St. Brown, he won't have 13 receiving yards. And if you got bailed out by the likes of Brandon Aubrey or the Bears defense (or both, like I did in one league), don't go sizing rings just yet. A win is a win, and a loss is a loss. But that's all it is.
My point is, don't just say the right things, but walk the talk as well. Keep your optimism up in week 2. Don't walk around with a storm cloud over your head. You don't even know which of your picks were good and which were bad yet. You can't turn sour when the season just started. Make your moves, look for talent, evaluate like you always would. Just don't ride the highs or lows of one week of fantasy football, because it will ruin your mood, your strategy, and maybe your season. It's not worth it.
By the way, if the Giants or Panthers do turn it around, I'm happy to hear it from their fans. Give me the "How you like us now?" treatment. I'm not saying these things to be mean. I'm from Tampa; I know what it feels like to be part of a long-suffering fanbase. So if I'm wrong, feel free to tell me.
But let’s be honest. I'm not wrong. I already know those teams are bad. Fortunately, the same can't be said for your fantasy team. Act positive and mean it. Good luck this week.
Was your confidence shaken this week? Are you maybe a little too excited about your prospects after one game? How do you keep a calm demeanor throughout the season? Share your thoughts below.
