Fantasy football hopefuls recognize that a successful draft is critical to hoisting that championship trophy. Any distraction or insecurity you can create for the opposition gives you an edge. This article presents a tongue-in-cheek look at several strategies to help you get inside the head of your opposition.

The Breaking News
Nothing creates insecurity in the opposition quite like breaking bad news to him after he makes a selection. Scour the news services in the days leading up to the draft. Know all of the recent news that impacts the fantasy football landscape. A strategic “I hope that hamstring injury Moss sustained in practice yesterday isn’t serious” or “That drug rap is probably overblown, he’ll be ready to go by mid season” will throw your competition off stride. Don’t overuse this approach or you will lose credibility, but using this technique several times during the draft will be a distraction to fellow owners that will give you an edge. With several accurate news items you can even throw in one or two fabrications.

Quick Picks
Be very well prepared for the draft. Stay focused on your upcoming selection so that when your turn comes you can select confidently and quickly. Don’t let the mindless banter of others take you off your game. Your competition will be impressed with your preparation. When your opposition stalls on a pick, make sure to point out their lack of preparation and indecision.

Third Person
Refer to yourself in third person. This will annoy your opponents. Use your team name or another appropriate moniker such as “the champs” when announcing your next pick. Announce your pick with flair. Something like “With the 4^th overall pick in the draft, the soon to be crowned league champs select the outstanding Colts back, Joseph Addai.”

Draft Analysis
Give your analysis of certain picks as the draft proceeds. For example, when the first tight end is taken you might suggest that selecting a tight end that early in the draft is premature (even if you were considering taking that tight end with your next pick). Obvious bone-headed picks should be derided openly and marginal picks should be met with skepticism. The objective is to have your opponent questioning their selections. This may disrupt their thought process and derail the rest of their draft.

The fantasy football draft can be great fun. Being well prepared and confident will make your draft experience much better. Poking a little fun at the competition while maintaining your focus during the draft can pay dividends in the end. Good luck and have fun with your draft!