Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > July > 25 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFalcons starting over — as a team
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thomas Dimitroff could have sought to finesse the transition. Instead he grabbed the Band-Aid and ripped hard, which is always the best way. It smarts for a little while, but you’re done with it.
In his first offseason as general manager, Dimitroff severed relations with four former Pro Bowlers. On Saturday, the Falcons open training camp with a roster heavy on youth and heavier on uncertainty, and the thought occurs that keeping one or two of those veterans might have smoothed what figures to be a turbulent season. The thought, it must be noted, does not occur to Dimitroff.
“I respect all the individuals who moved on,” he said this week. “[But] we are moving forward. There’s not a temptation to second-guess our moves. They may very well go to the next team and be productive. Right now for the Atlanta Falcons, we’re focused on our new roster.”
This administration may or may not prove any more successful than previous Falcons regimes, but there is about Dimitroff a clarity of vision — really, you folks need to meet this guy — unseen in Flowery Branch (and, before that, Suwanee). He’s new to the job, but he carries himself as if he’s been doing this all his life.
About those cast aside: Might DeAngelo Hall, traded to the Raiders, have helped win a game in a season that might not generate many victories? Sure. He also might have been a bigger distraction than ever.
Might Warrick Dunn, who signed with Tampa Bay after being waived, have made a few plays? Sure. But would a man who has worked all his career to disprove the notion that he’s a third-down back have welcomed a role as a third-down back behind Michael Turner?
The Falcons, see, tried the cult-of-personality route, and everything collapsed when their biggest personality went to jail. Imported from New England, Dimitroff is trying a tack that has met with somewhat more success. “We have the type of people who want to be part of this organization,” he said, “who believe quite simply in the team concept. For us, that’s imperative.”
Then this: “We made very calculated decisions in the draft — not only skills on the field but the makeup of these players. That combination in minicamp really showed its colors. We were impressed with what we saw not only skill-wise but [with] players who are buying into the team idea, who aren’t about just themselves, who know the way we’re going to restructure and redirect this ship is through all of us buying into the team idea.”
Doesn’t every organization say the same? Sure, Dimitroff said. “It sounds cliche. [But] I was witness to that turnaround in New England, how that team truly bought in. … A guy like Kevin Faulk, who could play for another team and maybe touch the ball 20 times, accepted his role and maybe only touched the ball eight to 10 times, but he was so instrumental in us winning.”
Dimitroff concedes that harmony can go only so far — “Obviously you have to win for it to gain legs” — but when you’re starting over, isn’t this the place to begin? The 2008 Falcons might not win many games, but they will build a foundation. They will look like a team, as opposed to a collection. And that’s something.
“If you continue to make moves that are sound decisions and not emotionally driven haphazard decisions,” Dimitroff said, “I think people will realize that consistency is the key here. To me, that’s huge. If this team can show consistency in their work ethic and their believing in themselves, then I truly believe we’re headed in the right direction.”
Permalink | Comments (101) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL
Comments
By pfunkatl2
July 25, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Nice words…however, this team has lost it’s heart and soul and FIBER as well. 3 wins is my projection.
By Maniac is accurate
July 25, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
I think they could win 6-8 games if the defense is strong. The Smith-Dimitroff regime reminds we of Bennett-LeBaron, which might have achieved consistent excellence if the Smith’s had had more patience. As it is, those years remain among the brightest in franchise history.
By Halsey
July 25, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Is there excitement among the coaches about any young players who they think shows signs of a potential breakout year?
By Doug
July 25, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
I, for one, support the direction taken. I don’t care if we win 3 this year if it leads to the playoffs in future years, and I think it will. I love Dimitroff and Smith and I am 100% there for them no matter what the tally sheet!
By Vick Supporter
July 25, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
No Vick = Losing Season…. AGAIN
By Brian Hunt
July 25, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
It sounds good. I just hope that there is some talent to go with all of the character.
By freddy
July 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
I cant watch da falcons wit dat playa hatin Blank. All dem… Blank, Smith, Bush, Mcain… all just tryin to keep brothas down!
By Dr. Warren
July 25, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Blank is an Obama supporter.
By mg3
July 25, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
3 wins I think is optimistic…as I look at the schedule maybe 2 wins…but that is not the important thing this season….team building is and that’s what dimitroff/smith are focused on and I believe that will achieve that…how long that takes is anyone’s guess, unfortunately we live in a society that wants results NOW…hopefully this tandem will be given a few years to prove their vision….go birds!
By Nice Guy
July 25, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
Hey, I know the Falcons are starting over but what about This? Since we (Atlanta) have been getting whipped about how we let Brett Favre get out of town, here’s our chance for redemption. The Falcons should get into the trade talk. What the heck, There’s nothing to loose here except that Brett probally wouldn’t want to come here. But what a story that would be. Let him play a year or two and turn it over to the Kid.
what do you guys think?
By Rico
July 25, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Whew!…..Hey “freddy” with Vick gone to jail, the likes of you will not be present at the dome any longer. THAT IS A GREAT THING!
By JB
July 25, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
The place has been fumigated and that was and is a good start. 3 wins, At least they will be trying.
By TheAntiMe
July 25, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
In case you haven’t heard, VS, Mike has a previous engagement with his Uncle Sam this year and couldn’t work the Birds into his schedule this season. In any event - just like with the Bravos - it’s time to rebuild with the younger dudes if the Falcons are ever going to have any success on a 2, 5, or 10 year basis like other winning sports franchises manage to accomplish.
By Russ
July 25, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
I got tired of seeing bums like you at the Dome any way.
Good riddance freddie !
By SeaAtl
July 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Favre started his career in Atlanta, and he should end it in Atlanta. Sign him up now! What a perfect tutor for the young Matt Ryan. And the Falcons would likely win a couple of games with Brett leading them.
By Mitun
July 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
if we get Grady Jackson and Rod Coleman back to the team, we will be able to improve our defensive front. in 09, i can see us Drafting CB Macolm Jenkins from Ohio State in the First Round. The DB, OL and DL is going to be an issue for us right now and also, we should get some more good people and that way we can address them and become a better team.
By dzac
July 25, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Freddy, you ain’t foolin’ no one. Take that white sheet off.
By dzac
July 25, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Freddy, you ain’t foolin’ no one. Take that white sheet off.
By Techster
July 25, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
I agree with Doug 100% - I don’t care if we only win 2 or 3 games if we play like a team don’t have crybabies and convicts on the team. Crumpler, Dunn, MeAngelo, they all needed to go (although Dunn obviously not for the same reason as the other 2 loudmouths). Now we just need to get rid of Joe Horn and we’ll be all set to start building a winner.
By Expert
July 25, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
I don’t know about ya’ll but the falcons are going to win seven games; we’ll surprise some people, many people.
By T.C
July 25, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
heres my honest prediction of the nfc south. 1.saints 10-6(and i hate them)2.bucs 9-7(i hate there coach)3.panthers 8-8(need more W.R)4.birds 2-14(falcons are done for a long time).defense rank 30.offense rank 31.there new Q.B rank who every one thinks he’s the savior:T.D 5 Ints 19(will be yanked and benched before mid season).the falcons don’t know talent and will be the doormat of the nfl for years to come.umm oh yea and have the worst fans in the nfl.
By D.Ellis
July 25, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Great to see football season coming on the horizon! I see us going 5 and 11….6 wins if it bounces our way. Jsut keep supporting the Birds and this new cast will get this going.
Would like to know how L. Robinson is coming along. With a real passing QB as we saw last year Roddy W. made great strides. If he maintains the productive level with some big help from Robinson that could become a good combo with Ryan for years to come.
By caoch smith
July 25, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Nice guy shutup! and wake up from that dream your having.can’t you see this sorry organization don’t know talent if GOD told them that this and that guy have game!
By caoch smith
July 25, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Nice guy shutup! and wake up from that dream your having.can’t you see this sorry organization don’t know talent if GOD told them that this and that guy have game!
By Marcus Vick
July 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
Check this out, while I smoke my blunt….me and my bro will watch the Falcons crash and burn, hey bring us both to the ATL…..no ticket sales without Mike Vick, falcons going to start at 1-5. Get my number 1 jersey ready and Mike’s #7! LOL
By Matt
July 25, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Hahahaha people like you Freddy are the reason why the Falcons are where they are today! It all started with MC Hammer and “2 Legit 2 Quit!”
Best thing this team has EVER done is get rid of the “ghetto @ss” attitude! The Falcons of years past trying to be “tough, hard, and putting brotha’s down” worked about as well as Adam Sandler having a role in the God Father.
Being fake, egotistical, criminal, and cry babyish DOES NOT WIN GAMES! Weve learned that!
Cant wait for the new, respectable, hard working, no pouting Falcons!
Go 2008 Birds!
By uncle sam
July 25, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Oh no! here goes those racist vick haters again.you know its very funny how you racist jerks can hate someone but there names seems to scroll right out of your mouths everytime you post a comment.ill say take vicks jock strap umm i mean name out of your mouths and don’t choke.
By Mark Bradley
July 25, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
I’m thinking 5-11 as well. But you should know that Dimitroff believes in the power to reinvent a team through free agency and the draft, even in the course of one short offseason. He’s conceding nothing, nor should he.
By Matt
July 25, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Hahaha that was great “yo mama”
Sounds like your IQ is as smart as your comment!
Truth of the matter is that nothing I said is racist. Its the truth! For years the Falcons have tried to be this hard team like Oakland and all it has cost us is the title of “NFL looserville” Honestly Im tired of hearing that! I want a team that works hard, earns their money (instead of expecting it), competes in games instead of b!tching about every call. Im tired of players getting arrested for weed and probabtion charges. Im tired of players getting 100 yards in personal foul pentalies.Im tired of players getting picke up for prostitution. And most of all I am tired of players blaming coaches and owners for the down fall of the black man.
Everyone is equal and responsible for thei own actions. Warrick Dunn NEVER acted “thuggish” and is one of the most respected men in the league and you never saw him get flagged for punching a guy or cussing out the ref’s.
Now “Yo Mama” if you dont like my comments or what I have to say, then just log off. But before you go threatening people or calling people out as “punk a*” its usually best to know who you are talking too.
Best advise I can give…grow up, learn to know what your talking about, be a man instead of a “wanna be” and SHUT THE HELL UP! No one here wants to hear your ignorant @ss!
GO FALCONS!
By Bo
July 25, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Mark ~
Nice article. I don’t always agree with your opinions and prognostications, but I certainly appreciate your presentation.
Have you heard Matt Ryan on the interview circuit? He’ll be a great quarterback eventually, and he’s already a real asset to the team and the community. Also, Dimitroff seems like a good captain at the helm.
I’ve never been much of a Falcons fan, but with the new regime and players, I’ll be watching more often.
Keep up the good work.
By Greg
July 25, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
We just need to see one thing: when the starters line up against J-ville in August, they’ll either knock us back, or we’ll knock them back. My own hunch is that without a couple upgrades on the line, we’re gonna lose that one. I would be so happy to see 2-3 good FA moves, including esp. the O-line and corner. But maybe I’m wrong. Maybe they’ll be competitive. I sure hope so.
By MagicMan
July 25, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
I love the doomsayers that are intent on convincing themselves and everyone else around that will listen, that this team will never be anything without vick. To all of you, I say good riddance. We don’t need distractions like that at the dome. I hear you can get MV’s address and write him a letter, so you can play out your man love though
By STH No More
July 25, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
What color is the sky in the parallel universe you live in Mr. Bradley? The one where its not the 21st century and this “Rudy” mentality plays so well? Its certainly a place where the rules of supply vs demand do not apply…evidently its also a place that doesn’t have cable…or Direct TV. Its not Atlanta, that’s for sure. That whole “if you build it, they will come” works for Hollywood screenplays, but that’s about it. This isn’t a place where you will EVER get this “die-hard to the Falcons base of 60,000 PAYING” fans - stop trying to go back in time, too late. You need some personalities, plain and simple. Don’t bother with the illogical comparisons to the Redskins, Steelers or Packers…please. Tell that to somebody who doesn’t know anything about geography, technology or economics. They would need to be pretty dense in ALL three to make those comparisons work. Its gonna be fun watching it all go back to what it was though….thoroughly FUN.
By yo mama
July 25, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
LOL matt don’t play it off you know its true.i can feel your blood boiling in your response.but its ok man.so that mean if your a racist your I/Q is off the charts?you know they have schools you can attend to teach you how to not be blind and realize theres more than one race in this world so you can get used to seeing other people other than white sheets over there heads.guess you think your grand because your a white guy and your culture of music ect… is better?well ill say do what your mama told you to do and stay off her computer lolololol.punk @SS.
By yo mama
July 25, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
LOL matt don’t play it off you know its true.i can feel your blood boiling in your response.but its ok man.so that mean if your a racist your I/Q is off the charts?you know they have schools you can attend to teach you how to not be blind and realize theres more than one race in this world so you can get used to seeing other people other than white sheets over there heads.guess you think your grand because your a white guy and your culture of music ect… is better?well ill say do what your mama told you to do and stay off her computer lolololol.punk @SS.
By yo mama
July 25, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
LOL matt don’t play it off you know its true.i can feel your blood boiling in your response.but its ok man.so that mean if your a racist your I/Q is off the charts?you know they have schools you can attend to teach you how to not be blind and realize theres more than one race in this world so you can get used to seeing other people other than white sheets over there heads.guess you think your grand because your a white guy and your culture of music ect… is better?well ill say do what your mama told you to do and stay off her computer lolololol.punk @SS.
By yo mama
July 25, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
LOL matt don’t play it off you know its true.i can feel your blood boiling in your response.but its ok man.so that mean if your a racist your I/Q is off the charts?you know they have schools you can attend to teach you how to not be blind and realize theres more than one race in this world so you can get used to seeing other people other than white sheets over there heads.guess you think your grand because your a white guy and your culture of music ect… is better?well ill say do what your mama told you to do and stay off her computer lolololol.punk @SS.
By DADDY
July 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Thats right matt do what your mama say and stay off her computer.be legit and quit.good boy!
By DADDY
July 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Thats right matt do what your mama say and stay off her computer.be legit and quit.good boy!
By DADDY
July 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Thats right matt do what your mama say and stay off her computer.be legit and quit.good boy!
By DADDY
July 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Thats right matt do what your mama say and stay off her computer.be legit and quit.good boy!
By DADDY
July 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Thats right matt do what your mama say and stay off her computer.be legit and quit.good boy!
By Nate33
July 25, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Hmmm I think the Falcons go 4-12 this season. Yes the QB is young. Yes the defense is pretty bad. Yes the offense is not much better, but with a little luck and hard play a few wins are possible. I think counting this season they are about 3 seasons away from really being anything. They are going to break some young guys in this year and next year and along the way add a few veterans and get rid of some older guys on the team as well. 3 years they will be respectable again, but for this year 4-12 at best.
By Matt IS
July 25, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
not a season ticket holder - and never will be…just another cherokee county resident that can’t “stand those folks in Atlanta”……..watching Arthur Blank come to that realization as every scheme is deployed to sell tickets, is absolutely priceless. I think the Titans sold out of their single game tickets in what….32 minutes?? 10th year in a row for the Titans! Hmmm, wonder what their marketing strategy has been for the past decade?
By wins not pr.
July 25, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
talant or pr . Pr never won a game ,good football player do win game. let leave hate aside for a time. Vick is still the best player on this Falcon team. Bar non. He will fill the dome , no bone about it.
This team needed linemen and they went for pr.. legend are made from wins. Get the best player you win . get the best pr and you lose.
Is anybody happy about 4-12 and pr. or 10-6 with wins. I want to win to hell with PR. wins is the best pr. Atlanta need wins we know how to lose. Feel good player or Pr. is this year team down fall. say it loud we like to win!!
By GA all daY
July 25, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
Matt- The boy Freddy is just as white as your dumbass. It’s crazy how a year later and a whole new team later, you bigots are still caught up on race and imitating black people on this blog. What a idiot!! I could care less who is on this team, I will continue to support them b/c they are the home team. And yes, I will still support Mr. Vick in whatever he does. Yall two continue to make white people look like racist as*ses
By BSHARD
July 25, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
I was born and raised in Atlanta, and the falcons have never been that good. We(the falcons) have had great strides, but were never able to get over the mountain. Vick didn’t kill the Falcons, the Falcons killed the Falcons. We(the falcons) were not that good before Vick and are not that good now or even when he was here. No matter who is on the field, I’m going to show support. The Falcons 9-7. Screw the N.O. AINTS, the T.B.sUCKS, the carolina kittens, and anyone else that comes up against US!
By ChicagoPOW
July 25, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Nice article Mr. Bradley. I like Dimitroff’s attitude and the attitude his organization is promoting. It will pay off!
By bshard
July 25, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
I was born and raised in Atlanta, and the falcons have never been that good. We(the falcons) have had great strides, but were never able to get over the mountain. Vick didn’t kill the Falcons, the Falcons killed the Falcons. We(the falcons) were not that good before Vick and are not that good now or even when he was here. No matter who is on the field, I’m going to show support. The Falcons 9-7. Screw the N.O. AINTS, the T.B.sUCKS, the carolina kittens, and anyone else that comes up against US!
By Pete
July 25, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
There is no doubt that TD has brought a winning formula and culture to the Falcons for the first time………EVER. They will win………..and shock the NFL while doing so.
By Mark Bradley
July 25, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
I wasn’t kidding when I said you folks need to meet Thomas Dimitroff. He’s a smart guy who impresses you without trying to impress.
By mars
July 25, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
I agree, T. C., the Falcons do have the worst fans in the NFL. They keep insisting that some loser prison inmate with herpes should be the QB. How stupid! Yes, you are correct, T. C. They are the worst. Like that racist yo mamma. If only racists like yo mamma could see beyond skin color. What a hater!
By OldTimer
July 25, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
Get real Mark. D’Angelo Hall. Come on, I’d bet my future on Mike Hampton before this clown. I’ve got two memories of Hall. One, his butt getting smoked by TO. Two, three penalties in one series. Besides his mouth, what makes you think he’s Deon Sanders. I don’t get it. This boy don’t win games. Mark it’s like your under a rock with sunglasses on. As for Vick, give me a break, he’s a school boy at best. This is a mans game, the current organization understands that. 11-5, stop hating. Go Falcons. Screw you non-believers.
By Billy
July 25, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
I love the intelligence of some of the posters here. You realize that you might make your point a lot better if you only posted ONCE, right?
Even if I was inclined to take your seriously, I’m not now. Morons.
By Ken Strickland
July 25, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
I believe the OFF will do just fine, especially with the type of scheme they will employ. However, it will not be strong enough to overcome our DEF shortcomings. We’ve done little to improve our weak pass rush, or our poor rushing and passing DEF. The Falcons will go no further than it’s DEF can take them. Our QB of the future, MRyan, can’t solve those problems ABlank.
However, if we can control the run, we can use the blitz to put pressure on the QB.
By The Grinch
July 25, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
I see 5-11 this year, 8-8 next year and then some consistent competitiveness for a good while to come. A couple more drafts and FA runs (players will WANT to come to the ATL now) to fill the few holes left and then a season or two to gel and we’ll have a hard-nosed, solid, thug free team. I’m looking forward to it.
By Ken Strickland
July 25, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
You can certainly tell Falcons football is back. The RESIDENT RACISTS and other ANAL MINDED MORONS are starting to crawl out from under their rocks and expressing their ignorance and stupidity loud and clear.
By Sage of Bluesland
July 25, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
This “organization” proved to me that they really aren’t serious about winning just yet. Why, you ask?
Continuing to employ our vaunted Hometown Hero (Keith Brooking, aka the Great Ankle-Menace) proves to me that all (former) “Pro-Bowlers” are equal in Falconsland—but some are more equal than others.
Now, good ol’ Keith is the 2nd highest paid linebacker in the league. That’s right—the entire league.
Nope, we’re still a quasi- marketing/charitable organization which also happens to field a football team in the NFL.
Some “leadership”! I just don’t know what we’d do without him…Maybe LOSE games??? (Oh wait, we’ve already done that plenty with his pre- and post-game brand of “leadership”…funny, it’s never displayed ON the field)
Wake up and stop subsidizing the incompetence.
By Jack G
July 25, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
All you gloom and doom folks stop and think! With the MV distraction, disgruntled player, and the worst coach in NFL history they still won 4 games.
Now dosent it stand to reason that they will have a better season this year
My prediction is 7 wins and maybe 8 if the ball bounces right a couple of times.
Take note of the fact that with all that went on last season, they lost several games by less than a TD
By mgcube
July 25, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
what kind of fans are u i say 10-6 we could sign ty law, grady jackson, and maybe rod coleman if hes healthy ………..and the team who finished last comes in first the next year
By Mark Bradley
July 25, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
I know Keith Brooking has become a flashpoint for a lot of you, but let me just say this: He was drafted by Dan Reeves and has since played for Jim Mora, Bobby Petrino and Mike Smith and under general managers Rich McKay and Thomas Dimitroff. If Brooking is so terrible, why do so many different football men keep putting him on the field? (And please don’t say, “Ticket sales.”)
By dirtybyrd
July 25, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
just relax everything will come quite clear in the next 60 days look at it in its true reality 1. new coach + 2. all pro coaches (several) + 3. new off and def schemes + 4. new players with heart + 5. new kicker with longer range + 6. new mental focused G.M. + ALL THIS POINTS TO BETTER CHANCE TO WIN!!!! THINK WE WILL COMPETE IN EVERY GAME WHY SURE BUT CAN WE WIN IT!!! STAY TUNED TO FIND OUT THE REST OF THIS 2008 ATL FALCONS STORY PEACE TO THE FANS
By bigeasy830
July 25, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
They needed to start over. The absence of MV7 showed how bad this team really was. Long rebuilding process ahead of us, but I like what I hear about Coach Smith. I am not to sure about the new GM, in my opinion his first draft was shaky. If we sign Grady it will help our defense tremendously. Good to see that Lofton will not miss any training camp time, now Baker needs to get in there. Hopefully we get him in there by tomorrow. I still say no more than 4 wins, but I am hoping for the best. We got real football men doing the coaching, Smith, Van Gorder and Mularkey are great coaches. So who knows we may be decent. If not then from what I hear about Smith he will clear out those that are here to just collect a pay check from this team. Thats my kind of coach.
By Lynne
July 25, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
You mean Arthur Blank allowed Dimitroff to speak all by himself?? WOW. There’s a first. Hopefully Blank put in the Energizer batteries.
By Matt
July 25, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this
For the Idiot above that posted “No Vick = Losing Season…. AGAIN”, How many years was Con-Vick with the Falcons? How many winning seasons did the Falcons have with Con-Vick as the Glorified Running/Quarterback? The is answer 6 starting seasons and 2 winning seasons. That’s not a very good record if you ask me. Now SHUT UP about Con-Vick he’s gone!!!
By Chuck N. Spears
July 26, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
Tupac got what he deserved, and so will Vick.
By Ken Strickland
July 26, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
MATT-MVick played 6 seasons, but only started 4. Chris Chandler was the starter his rookie yr. He only started the last 3gms of his 3rd yr in the league after braking his leg during preseason. In his 4yrs as a fulltime starter he only had 1 losing season. No other Falcon QB can match that. No other Falcon QB can match his overall winning percentage, total regular season or playoff wins, number of playoff appearances and number of Probowl appearances.
You might not like what he did off the field, and rightfully so. However, don’t be stupid enough to think you can use his off field indiscretions to discount what he accomplished as a player. He might be a con Vick now, as you are so fond of putting it, but as a player, he was the most successful QB in Atlanta Falcon football history, period. NO AMOUNT OF IGNORANCE, STUPIDITY, HATRED OR DENIAL WILL CHANGE THAT FACT.
As far as how many gms we’ll win, no one really knows. It will depend on how well our DEF plays. If they step up, we could end up having a winning season. Remember, we had simular situations following the hiring of Dan Reeves and Jim Mora. And in both cases we ended up having very successful seasons. Realistically, we were in a position to win at least 8gms last yr. Without all of the distractions, we should at least do that well this yr.
By Tree Rollins
July 26, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
Brooking has been an OK player with a great heart and super team attitude. That’s why he keeps making the roster. He’s a good locker room guy and Lord knows the Falcons needed that. When they lost Pat Kearney they lost the other one.
I’m so glad they kept all the “hip-hop” crowd when the gave up Kearney. Credit to Dimitroff for getting rid of most of that crew. Now what do we do with this goof-ball Joe Horn? Letting go of him will make it complete!
By Tree Rollins
July 26, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
Brooking has been an OK player with a great heart and super team attitude. That’s why he keeps making the roster. He’s a good locker room guy and Lord knows the Falcons needed that. When they lost Pat Kearney they lost the other one.
I’m so glad they kept all the “hip-hop” crowd when the gave up Kearney (kidding). Credit to Dimitroff for getting rid of most of that crew. Now what do we do with this goof-ball Joe Horn? Letting go of him will make it complete!
By Matt R (no, not Ryan)
July 26, 2008 2:00 AM | Link to this
When I read about Vick, I just get upset. I am a white guy, and I was happy when we drafted Vick. However, as good as many thought Vick was this guy could not lead the birds to back to back winning seasons. Also, Vick was not a very good passer. He had a cannon for an arm, but he had no touch…………none! (and you idiot MV7 supporters know he couldn’t pass….don’t give me that crap that he could either)
I am glad with the offseason moves made by our new GM. Getting rid of the thug element will allow this team to move forward. No,I am not trying to sound racist, but some of the players that were cut or (jailed) needed to go in order for our local community and team to benefit (excluding Dunn).
To expand upon my last statement, I feel that with the thug element gone from the team, the dome will have a more balanced crowed attending games.
In going to the games over the past few years (or the Vick era), I noticed that the music and other aspects were trained more towards the black crowd. This I felt was wrong and unfair, thus it drove some falcon fans away from the dome.
Also, I work with kids, and when I here them say………”they were just dogs”…….that makes my blood boil.
What Vick did was totally reprehensible; therefore, he is out as our QB. For his supporters, please realize……..it is over. He will not play for the Falcons again. After serving time on federal charges,he will face state charges for his crime, and could face more time in prison. After finishing the time spent in the pin, he will be suspended by R.Goodell for at least one season. I doubt he will ever play again, and if he does, it will not be as a QB.
He was a glorified running back who couldn’t trow a touch pass to save his life. An NFL QB should not have 1,000 yds rushing.
Also, if Vick would have kept playing, I would only give him 3 more seasons before he would have been totally done. He would have gotten injured, and would not have been able to run any more. Then talent evaluators in the NFL would tell him……hey you cannot run, and you sure as hell cannot pass, so you’re done.
To MV7 It’s over!!!!!!
Also, To everyone voting on the on-line poll saying the D.J. Shockley will be the opening day starter………give me a break! I want D.J. To stay, but he has zero NFL experience. I am a huge dawgs fan, but D.J. starting when he hasn’t thrown a pass in the NFL, come….on. I hated to see him get injured last year. God knows he would have gotten a chance to play, and yes I do think he is better than Redman.
Sorry Chirs Redman, but there is a reason as to why you were selling insurance.
Did anyone know that C-Red was drafted way ahead of Tom Brady.
Anyway, sorry for the long post, but it needed to be said.
By Sharon
July 26, 2008 3:38 AM | Link to this
Everytime I go to a restaurant these days and see “Tossed Salad” on the menu, I giggle and think about Mike Vick crying like a little baby and biting on the pillow in his prison cell as his fellow inmates drill on his naked bottom like a Texas Oil Well.
By Sharon
July 26, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
Yes I think of these things because I am sick and twisted, not because I think they really happen. Its because of what my father did to me!
By michaelgee
July 26, 2008 7:28 AM | Link to this
Hey everybody, it’s “Mark REHASH Bradley” with more non-news.
HALL is gone, now that is news.
Be sure not to miss the Petrino story again today as well.
By baddog
July 26, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
Wow it’s sad when people still are hurtin over MV7. He did it to himself shouldn’t have lied. Lets keep it movin lets see what the Birds can do. All this back and forth with woulda coulda shoulda is NOT helping nothing. Now don’t get me wrong the fighting dogs time was MUCH TOO LONG hell you get less time for Manslaughter. it is what it is MV7 played here and left here again lets keep it movin
By WesleyB
July 26, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
It is Morning in Flowery Branch
It is 5:20 am in Oregon and 8:20 am in Flowery Branch, Georgia and training camp for the Atlanta Falcons is finally here.
Today is the day we can put last year’s fiasco to memory and focus on this year’s team. I sit on my porch watching the sunrise, listening to the birds and am excited knowing that today we practice football.
I can only imagine what the 2008 Falcons franchise must feel, after last year and with the off season changes. The rookies must be nervous, the veterans feeling a mixture of emotions, looking forward to football but dreading the two-a-days…
Read the the rest of this column at: http://atlantafalconsblog.blogspot.com/
By john
July 26, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
hey guys we kept saying falcon will win 1 or 2 games. why dont we stop talking and give coach smith and staff time the team which was by former coach.good luck smith do your job.
By Matt the Brave
July 26, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
After looking at their schedule, realistically, probably five games. If they have a lot of really great luck, they might end up being .500. Depends on those lines and special teams!
Also, does anybody buy the load of crap that Petrino is saying? He left because of the love of college football? Makes me sick. Why not just come out and say that 1) you hated Atlanta and the pro games, and 2) you wanted more money and could make it while doing college football?
Any thoughts on that, Mark?
By STH No More
July 26, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Since the AJC continues to bait and then refuse to even attempt to monitor these blogs, hopefully this organization will continue to lose money and “realign” right along with the downtrodden Falcons.
By CDC
July 26, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Do all those federal inmates who are having gay prison sex with Vick realize all the venereal disease they are getting from that dog-raping piece of garbage?
Go Falcons!
By Stephen
July 26, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
Vick is in PRISON. If HE had not broken the LAW and killed dogs, he would still be on this team and they might be getting ready for a playoff season. I wish “Vick- Supporters” and certain former Falcon players would get that through their heads. It isn’t like Blank woke up one morning and said, “Gee, I think I will quit supporting, encouraging, and paying Vick.” Blank got a fax that told him all the things Vick said about being innocent were lies. So please, let’s not talk about Vick anymore and focus on the Falcons. So, pull for them, complain about who they have, or just go away.
By bigeasy830
July 26, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
Ken Strickland, very good post. I do not agree with all your post but you are a very knowledgeable fan so when we disagree it is always in an agreeable way. I enjoy your post. Matt R. I understand your last post but words like thug element is percieved as being a racist comment by many African American people on these blogs because it has been used in that way. People have the right to support MV7 so why let it upset you. We all have different views in the MV7 and dog fighting thing, just accept that as a fact and move on. I knowe some of the African Americans show their ignorance in some of their post. There will always be stupid people but that doesn’t mean that you have to be one of them. Its a new season. I am ready for some football. I have more bounce in my step knowing that the season is just around the corner.
By k00nta kinte
July 26, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
I bet Michael Vick can toss one mean salad, almost as well as he tossed those bleeding dogs onto hard pavement to finish killing them.
By Mark Bradley
July 26, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
My thoughts on Petrino: If he’d have had Vick and he’d have won the way he thought he would, he’d have liked the pro game well enough. That doesn’t mean he’d have stuck around long — the man doesn’t stick around — but he wouldn’t have bolted after one season (or 13 games). And he does seem more suited to college, where he can do the-my-way-or-the-highway act and not have 20-year-olds rebel the way grown men did here.
By Levi Rozier
July 26, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Go Falcons. The only way you can move forward is to examine where you are. I think the new GM is doing that and we need to be patient and optimistic. We live such a negative society and everyone is addicted to success now. Be loyal and help the team, city and fans.
By CDC
July 26, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
My father molested me that’s why I have these thoughts…but I won’t root for the Falcons ever again!! WAAAAAHHHHH!
By STH No More
July 26, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Thank you Chad Scott for telling the truth on 790am, looks like the AJC minions are “coddling” Arthur Blank.
By boxer99
July 26, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
Matt, nicely put about conVICKted. The guy shouldn’t even be the topic of discussion. The problem is you still have these ignorant Falcons fans who would love to see the guy come back. News flash: The guy is a liar, a drug user, a dog killer, has std’s. Lets not forget scumbag! Im so glad to know that conVICK will not be back ina falcons uniform ever
By boxer99
July 26, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Matt, nicely put about conVICKted. The guy shouldn’t even be the topic of discussion. The problem is you still have these ignorant Falcons fans who would love to see the guy come back. News flash: The guy is a liar, a drug user, a dog killer, has std’s. Lets not forget scumbag! Im so glad to know that conVICK will not be back in a falcons uniform ever
By nativefalcon
July 26, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
I’m so glad we have a TEAM thats building a foundation to win, then a self centered jerk that had a weird fetish with dogs. And best of all we get to be RID OF ALL THE FAKE VICK FANS that were supposedly falcons fans. We got to the super bowl as a team without Vick and we can do it again and win it without vick. Enjoy crying in your beers vick fans he aint coming back at least to Atlanta.
By Darth Hater
July 27, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
Tupac got what he deserved and so will Vick.
By MRMAN
July 27, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this
The Falcons were losers on and off the field with Vick the last two years. They were the laughing stock of the league. Now Vick is gone and the Falcons have moved on and so should the fans. Getting rid of Hall, Williams, and Crumpler, was a good start, but hopefully just the beginning. Plenty more need to go, such as Horn, Jenkins, Finneran, White, Forney, Weiner, Brooking, and McClure. Their is no way the veteran players didn’t know what Vick was doing, no way. And their silence was their approval. They were playing on Vick’s team and not the Falcons team. Now we have qb’s that can use the whole playbook and not a dumbed-down half a playbook, and call plays and checkoff at the los. The Falcons added some quality rookies and will be so much better off because of the players they got rid of. Now we have a professional coaching staff in place that will not put up with the garbage that went on here before and not the joke of the league.
By Delusional Falcon Fans
July 27, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
Such delusion…yeah you’re happy to get rid of the people that made the Dome FULL? You’re happy to go back to listening to the game on Sunday?? Just like country hicks to be happy being pathetic, as long as it keeps the “coloreds” out. Don’t worry, when Blank moves the team to San Antonio you can go back to cheering for the Cherokee County Tigers or some other hick team instead of pretending like you were ever a fan of the Falcons…none of you could name a Falcons player until Vick got drafted…but you’ll go back to your holes as soon as the season starts since you dont have him to bash for the losses…its what you do.
By Why Ryan Jersey #2?
July 27, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
Because in the FANS eyes Ryan will NEVER be the #1 QB. The #7 jersey is the most bought jersey in Falcon history. Ryan hopes his will be 2nd, and that is why he’s #2.
By KlanGirl
July 27, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Bar non, Vick Supporters are THE Biggest Racists I have ever seen.
By What About the Falcons
July 27, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
John Clayton Q&A with fans
Q: Just say something positive about the Atlanta Falcons. Sharell, Raleigh, N.C.
A: The corporate offices of Falcons owner Arthur Blank are some of the nicest I’ve ever seen. That’s where he held the party for the signing of first-round pick Matt Ryan. The buffet table was excellent. Parking was flawless. Corporate sponsors were friendly. Plus, Ryan should be a good quarterback. There, I said something nice about the Falcons.
By Falcons Season Tickets Anyone?
July 27, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this
Here’s a story you’ll never see about the Falcons EVER AGAIN!
Titans Tickets Sell Out in Half Hour Posted: July 12, 2008 06:41 PM EDT
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- Dozens of fans lined up at LP field Saturday for a chance to snatch up single-game Titans tickets. The Titans had 23,000 single game tickets on sale Saturday. It took only 32 minutes to sell all eight regular season home games for the 2008 season. The Packers, Colts and Steelers games were gone within five minutes. This is the 10th consecutive year for a sell out. Nearly 50 people were in line when the window opened at 10:00 Saturday morning. The crowd is getting smaller because more and more fans are using the internet to purchase tickets. “The people who gave all their time to camp out here were able to get the tickets that they wanted. It’s a fantastic day for our organization, and a true testament of how great our fans are,” said Titans Executive vice president, Don MacLachlan. The Titans first pre-season game is set for August 9th against the St. Louis Rams.
By FoxSports on the Falcons
July 27, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
32 Questions for each NFL Team w/Peter Schrager
Q: The Michael Vick Era is officially over, right? A: Matt Ryan was the big winner in April’s draft, despite not going first overall — signing for the most money ($72 milion), and getting an absurd $34 million in guaranteed cheddar. The money is a lot — especially for a team with holes at pretty much all 22 positions on the field. But the bigger question is this: What happens two years from now, when Ryan, one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league, is manning a 5-11 team and Michael Vick is playing for Dallas, at the league minimum, lighting it up for a division leader? Talk about sleepless nights for Falcons fans.
By Midtown Touchdown??
July 27, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
Oh so the Midtown Touchdown got scrapped…and we’re using the “drought” excuse?? LMAO! Oh well, I hope more than the 50 people that came to that sorry Red Carpet Event will show up for the Roam in the Dome! Maybe at least 100 will show up! Wonder why the AJC didn’t have pics of that?
By mrman
July 27, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a Falcon fan for 30 years and I was never so disgusted than with the garbage that went on during the Vick era. Coaches and an owner that babied and coddled Vick and made excuses for him. Fans who felt it was\is more important to have a Black playing qb regardless of his actions and lifestyle. And selfish players who lacked discipline and self control. Yea, we won a few games, but we didn’t make it to the Super Bowl, like the Chandler\Anderson led 98 Falcons. Heck, Vick couldn’t even give us consecutive winning seasons. It’s time for Blank and Dimitroff to give the fans football players and not personalities. And for the fans to put away their bias. And for Falcon players to play and act like the professionals their suppossed to be. Then Atlanta will have a winning football team everyone can be proud of.
By Mark Bradley
July 29, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
One hundredth! (Sorry, but I’ve always wanted to do that.)
By BubbaPatterson
August 11, 2008 12:48 PM |