If you’re entering the world of fantasy football for the first time, you’re probably wondering why it took you so long to do it. Playing fantasy football, whether for fun or real money, is a great way to enjoy one of America’s favorite sports, professional football. As a beginner, you will most likely play with experienced trainers who already know the nuances of the game. This quick guide is designed to show you how to play fantasy football for beginners and maybe level the playing field a bit.

Choose a league format

When you log in to a free or real money fantasy football site, you will be prompted to register. If it is a real money site, you will also be required to make a deposit. Free sites are typically used for league play where you select a team and play that team in a league format for an entire season. Real money sites focus on weekly competitions where you pay the contest fee and pick your team for that specific contest only based on salary cap limitations. Regardless of which format you choose, you should take the time to understand the rules and scoring to decide how to best develop your team.

Tips for choosing players

As a beginner, you most likely have a casual approach to choosing players, preferring not to spend a lot of time on statistical analysis. That’s fine and understandable, but you should be aware that some of your competitors will use that information, giving you some advantage over those who don’t.

Tips for choosing players in an annual league format

Note: Standard leagues use only offensive position players, kickers, and team defensemen. If individual defensive players are included, it is called “IDP“league. Beginners should avoid auction drafts and stick to the standard “snake” drafts.

1. While selecting your team, pick the best available player for each specific position first before you start selecting backup players.

two. Draft a balanced team and try not to focus too much on one particular position. Also, you should avoid recruiting your favorite players unless they really benefit you in scoring.

3. Look for a “scoring bias” in the scoring rules. This refers to the notion that some leagues establish scoring rules that may favor the Quarterback a little. If so, do you want a top? Quarterback. If not, you need to pay a little more attention to running backs and wide receivers.

Four. Pick kickers and defensemen from the team toward the end of the draft, as they rarely provide a real advantage for a full season.

5. Take care of your “bye-bye” weeks. You want to make sure that both your quarterbacks he does not have the same bye week, which would force him to resign or lose points.

Tips for choosing players for weekly contests

When you play for money, you have to change your approach. You’re not recruiting players, you’re selecting the best group of players you can without going over the salary cap.

1. Find value by selecting good offensive players scheduled to play against poor defensive teams. On the flip side of the coin, you want to keep offensive players from going up against the best defenses.

two. You should read the weather reports and try to avoid players who might be playing in the rain or snow. If you selected your teams well in advance, come back and make any necessary adjustments before game time.

3. Look for hot players who may be underrated and avoid depressed players who may be overrated. Don’t be afraid to play with trends.

Four. Use every penny of your salary cap.

5. Never play with more money than you can afford to lose.

Every week, it’s up to you to manage your team. In league formats, fellow coaches expect you to show up and play your best every week, whether you’re in first place or last. As time goes on, you’ll better understand your goals and start making better decisions. At the end of the day, this is a game. Have a great time and enjoy.