Fantasy football - Eight ways to make your smaller league feel more fun, challenging and exciting

Fantasy football is for everyone.

That's not a novel concept. Except, sometimes, the most passionate among us forget how customizable this game can be. For example, 10 or 12 teams aren't required to create a league. In fact, the next two most common league sizes ESPN fantasy football enthusiasts play are eight- and four-teamers.

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I've personally experienced the premature collapse of potential leagues because the commissioner couldn't «find enough people.» And if 12 teams aren't signed up, then the whole thing is going to feel mediocre and boring, right?

Wrong.

First of all, ESPN Fantasy allows teams to be drafted and start fresh (everyone is 0-0) AFTER Week 1. So if punctuality isn't where you shine (what's up, my fellow tidsoptimists), don't stress. You have time!

If, however, you appreciate promptness, then know that there's a workaround (a few, actually). A sub-10-team operation CAN mod its way into a 12-team experience. Below are (surprise!) eight suggestions for providing an eight-team league with a deeper-league feel.

By using as many or as few of the listed modifications, your single-digit syndicate can tap into a vast player pool (ideal for game-day viewing and cheering) while remaining ultra-competitive and throwing a bit more unpredictability into the mix.

And what fun would football season be without a little (more) chaos?

Start two QBs

Quarterbacks are the Avengers of the NFL. They're superheroes and pop culture superstars at the same time. As luck would have it, professional football is experiencing a renaissance at the position, serving up more depth and point-producing prowess than in any previous generation.

Why not take