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Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > August > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USTurner restores power to Falcons
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Flowery Branch — The big man is thinking of a big number. “I know it’s going to be somewhere around 300 carries,” Michael Turner said. “The average back [gets] that.”
Actually, no. Only six NFL backs carried more than 300 times last season, and you’d know their names. Lots more folks should know Michael Turner’s name after this season. If these Falcons are to have any chance, the big man must shoulder a big load.
Turner spent four seasons with San Diego as LaDainian Tomlinson’s understudy, carrying the ball 228 times total but gaining a reputation as the league’s best No. 2 back. He signed with the Falcons because he’s ready to be a No. 1.
“I know I’m getting my touches, guaranteed,” he said, speaking of his new environs. “It wasn’t guaranteed in San Diego.”
Turner’s nickname is “The Burner,” but at 244 pounds he’s more of a blunt instrument. For all the attention that will be paid to quarterback Matt Ryan, Turner was the offseason’s key short-term acquisition. The Falcons haven’t had a power back of his eminence since Jamal Anderson, and in Mike Mularkey’s low-risk offense, power will be paramount.
To which we say: Hooray. There’s a brutal beauty in watching a big back exert his inexorable influence. “It’s old-school football,” Turner said, and he’s an old-school guy. Ask which backs he enjoyed watching, and he’ll mention Jim Brown and Earl Campbell and Jerome Bettis and Mike Allstott and the late Craig “Ironhead” Heyward — earth-movers all.
Such backs tend to do the most damage in the fourth quarter. Even though Turner isn’t accustomed to playing an entire game — L.T. was the main attraction in S.D. — he sees himself as cut from the same hunk of scrap iron. “I’m a rhythm-type back. … You don’t want to be one of those guys who burn out at the end of games. You want to get stronger.”
Said Falcons coach Mike Smith: “You want to have a guy who can take the punishment and dish some out. You want a back who can lower his shoulder and get the hidden yards — 2 yards in the second quarter can become 4 yards in the fourth quarter.”
For the Falcons, Turner stands to be that guy. Jerious Norwood will be the change of pace, but the big man will be the pace itself. He has primed himself for this moment. From Tomlinson, Turner said he learned “how to prepare, how to condition, how to take care of your body. The mental aspect of the game — that’s the part that gives you the edge.”
As a free agent, Turner could have gone a lot of places. He landed here because he liked Mularkey’s unadorned scheme and Mularkey himself.
“I felt the attitude and the passion he brought to his system,” he said. “He really believes in it, and when a coach really believes in something, that gets transferred to the players.”
A power offense, duh, is nothing without a power back, but even the mightiest runner cannot create his own holes. Conventional wisdom holds that this offensive line isn’t forceful enough to clear its collective throat. Turner, you should know, believes differently.
“They’re out here working hard,” he said. “They’re fighting for jobs, and everybody’s level goes up when that happens. They might get a bad rap, but I don’t see it at all. They’ve got great potential.”
One final thing about the big man’s big number: Only once in the past 21 seasons has a Falcon — Anderson in 1998 — carried 300 times. Not saying these Falcons will likewise wind up in the Super Bowl, but could there be a more promising parallel?
Permalink | Comments (87) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL
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Comments
By Sage of Bluesland
August 5, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Mark, you’ve become an absolute embarrassment to the profession. Next, you’ll be writing about how Keith Brooking really is ‘feared’ throughout the league, Don Waddell’s next “Five-Year Plan” will work this time, and that firing that buffoon Pete Babcock was a mistake.
Please put the Kool-Aid down…Has Arthur bought you off like the aforementioned have, apparently? What did you sell out for this time?
Turner will have a hard time making positive yards when the opposition is constantly in our backfield.
Just be sure to acknowledge the truth later on.
By Dont Matter!!!???
August 5, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
LETS ALL JUST LET OUT A SIGH OF RELIEF THAT THE RINGLING BROTHERS CIRCUS ARENT GOING TO BE PLAYING AT THE DOME ON SUNDAYS THIS YEAR. I AM JUST RELIEVED WE ARE TALKING ABOUT FOOTBALL AGAIN AND NOT DOGS OR MAYBE DAWGS….HOW GOOD THEY WILL BE WE WILL SEE AT LEAST WE KNOW THE COACH IS NOT A COWARD AND SOCIOPATH LIKE THE LAST COACH…SMASH MOUTH FOOTBALL I BELIEVE IN TURNER AND BELIEVE HE IS GOING TO BE A BRUISER….
By CB
August 5, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
On another football related subject…the Green Bay Packers may be a poorer run organization then the ASB Atlanta Hawks…unbelivable
By MIke G.
August 5, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Turner is the perfect compliment to Matt Ryan, a consistent possession type QB - the likes of which we have not seen in some time in these parts.
Looks like the Falcons ma surprise some people!
Go Falcons!
By Mr. Obvious
August 5, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
in a related story, Mike Vick’s prison cellmates bring back Power Jailhouse Rape.
Passing?
Pass the Vaseline, Please.
By PHIL
August 5, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
what is “sage” talking about? I think Bradley is right on with his comments on Turner. Sage must be a Vick/Crumpler/Deangelo Hall lover- Those days are gone! The circus has left town! Time for some good, ole-fashioned football with a SMART QB and hard-nosed RB. I got SO tired of watching Warrick Dunn disappear into piles of Defensive Linemen.I hated it when we let TJ Duckett go. That dude is a bruiser- every time he touched the ball he got POSITIVE yardage. That’s what I want to see again. Not some under-sized back getting nailed at the line on 3rd and 1 and getting driven back for a 3 yard loss. Give me 3 downs and a cloud of dust! Hey - all you Vick and Alge and D. Hall boys— that joke is long gone, and I’m glad.
By leftcoastfan
August 5, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
ok so the packers will trade favre to the jets or the bucs, who will then trade favre to minnesota to get a plethora of draft picks. do the packers understand that any team they trade him to, can then in turn dump him to the vikes.
go bret, keep on truckin’ dude
By Jim H.
August 5, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
I just hope that Mularkey’s offense doesn’t turn out to be “Malarkey”.
By scottbravesfan
August 5, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Turner was a very nice pick up by the Falcons this offseason. They might have a rough 2008 season but this team has got some good pieces for the future.
By BravesFan79
August 5, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Go Brett Farve!! any team hes on will be my favorite team this year.
I hope the Packers trade him….then Rodgers breaks his leg!! Hope Farve goes to Minnessota!
By Mark G
August 5, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
People lets get back to reality!!! No one really knows what is going to happen this season!! We all must love the Falcons or we would not care to write about them. Lets all stop complaining or talking about the past and support what is!! Thank you. We all would have, could have, should have!!!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
August 5, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Yeah, that’s nice, too bad Atlanta’s beloved Falcons still haven’t figured out after 40 years of existence that you need an offensive line in order to have a consistent running game. Good luck with that.
By Najeh Davenpoop
August 5, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Leftcoastfan, I think there are rules against trading a player immediately after signing him… I know there are in the NBA, but the NFL probably has them too to combat what you mentioned.
By Mark Bradley
August 5, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
If I’m not mistaken, the Falcons have run the ball rather well on occasion. Gerald Riggs gained a few yards here. William Andrews did, too. And Jamal Anderson had 1,800 of them in 1998.
By Birdy
August 5, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
I’m just thankful that Warrick “Pill Bug” Done will no longer be here to turn 4-yard runs into 2-yard runs with his “chuck-n-duck” style of play. What a relief indeed!
By TROTTINGHOMETUDD
August 5, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
You have got to be kidding us Mark.
This is a cut and paste article. We already know all this that you have mentioned. What on earth are you going to do next? What ever it is please don’t let it be anything about UGA.
By michaelgee
August 5, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Mark, did the light finally turn on for you?
Falcon Fans have known this for quite a while, it is good to see that you finally gave the dead horse a day off.
By DOC REEM
August 5, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Hey why aren’t you guys writting about who’s suprising people at camp. Who had the best play of the day on offense and defense. How the o-line or d-line looking. Who’s consistently making plays on both sides of the ball. This is the worst updates on the Falcons practicing in years. What the hell is going on? We already now this stuff.
By Time for a change
August 5, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this
Hey, it’s time for all the anti-falcon fans to give the young team a chance. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will this team so give them a chance. Please! With a little support, who knows what they will do.
By Ronald Moore
August 6, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this
I would hate to be an athlete playing for a team with fans like some of you people. You don’t even understand the concept of supporting a team, all you do is tear down and complain. Why don’t you do something with your life instead of knocking other people who are trying to accomplish something. I love the falcons with all of their faults, they are my team and I get a lot of enjoyment watching them.And regardless what you say they have enjoyed success and dissapointment that is sports. If they won all the time it would be a rigged game. Why don’t we all get behind the team and enjoy them when they win the division and then someday soon a superbowl. Then you can say you are a fan and enjoy the ride instead of being upset because they proved you wrong.
By Henry
August 6, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this
Let’s go Falcons. You will always have my support.
By CB
August 6, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
I say the falcons go after Favre. Trade up Horn(since he is unhappy) and a second round pick. Then Favre would not create any QB controversy (not here anyway HaHa) as he will more than likely cause in Tampa. Matt Ryan sits for a year or 2 under the tutelage of a future hall of famer and Blank would definitely put some people in the seats with that pickup. Not only that, Favre is close to home and he gets a shot at revenge going into Lambeau
By Cam
August 6, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this
Favre ain’t coming here. He wants to win a SuperBowl.
I’m wondering how often we’ll run Norwood. That guy gets about 6 yards on every carry.
I’m excited about the change. Even if the Falcons lose 12 games it’s going to be way better than last year.
By Greg
August 6, 2008 6:01 AM | Link to this
Najeh is right about the O-line. I’m sure they’re improving; but Turner, who is a great back, will be keyed on, and even with Mughelli blocking and Jerious serving as an alternative threat, it all comes down to beating the other guys in the blocks. Nothing so far shows us that the Falcons O-line can do this. Yet. We need a couple more solid pieces, including a TE who can run, catch, and run
By Famuan
August 6, 2008 6:46 AM | Link to this
Mark Bradley wrote above: “If I’m not mistaken, the Falcons have run the ball rather well on occasion. Gerald Riggs gained a few yards here. William Andrews did, too. And Jamal Anderson had 1,800 of them in 1998.”
Mr. Bradley should be barred from sportswriting forever just because of that idiotic statement. I can’t believe he actually put that out there for public consumption. Yes, Michael Turner will have a great rushing season because decades ago it happened!! See…there’s a trend!! Wow….just wow.
By Myrtle Beach
August 6, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this
Heck i remember Hampton and Malone so what, But i’ll still fork out the $600 bucks to get Direct TV Sunday ticket so i can watch the same team I’ve Loved since 1969. It’s funny how the Yankee fired Dan Reeves only to go right back to his way of playing football which if they stick to and build through the draft will in a couple of years will put us in the “BIG” game.
By jmt
August 6, 2008 7:54 AM | Link to this
Mark, you are a loser and the rest of the people that hop on these blogs to take shots at MV7 are losers also when are you racist and sexist going to grow up and right comments that makes sense the falcons have no line on defense or offense and they will offensive this year. Please this is a losing franchise with a bunch of losing fans it is a sad sad thing.
By Jay
August 6, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this
Sage of Bluesland please don’t talk about “our” back field like you are a real fan. People like make Atlanta fans carry a bad reputation throughout the world of sports. Some of us are just excited to watch football and cheer for “our” team regardless of how they are doing. Please find another message board to wirte on because we are not interest in your negative comments.
I, for one, am just happy these reporters are writing something positive. If you want the perfect team I am sure there is a band wagon somewhere that you can jump on..
By marko
August 6, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
I think a little cautious optimism might be in order as far as the offensive line goes. Most our linemen were chosen to fit into a zone blocking scheme. They were selected primarily to create run lanes. Petrino, the wonder boy, thought that all he had to do was feed them a couple of cheese burgers, and they would transform themselves into mighty pass blockers. I think that if these guy’s can give the Burner an inch, he’ll take a mile. As the defenses concentrate on stopping the run, whoever winds up our lead ball chunker will find the going a tad easier.
By dgroy
August 6, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
You wannabee sports writers should go back and read the sports pages from the 50’s and 60’s to see how sports news should be reported. All you think about is trying to create a controversy so readers can comment one way or the other. That way you get some idea as to your readership.
By Lowcountry Bulldawg
August 6, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
How pathetic are the Falcons when an article about the “big” Free Agent signing warrants only 29 comments. In those a handful are talking about the Falcons and most are bashing Bradley.
The Falcons are irrelevant. Arthur should go back to $10 a game tickets. Fill the Dome up again. That was a great marketing ploy.
On the Turner Plan, one question. Who is goign to block for him? Last I remember the O-Line was very soft.
GOOO DAWGS!
By willie
August 6, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this
Mr. Turner will still need an offensive line. I predict 850 yds@300 carries…. not much Mike……….They’ll need a real”run blocking” scheme real quick.Matt Ryan will pay his dues but it’ll become brutal if the line disappears. Offensive&defensive lines make postion players rich so be realistic!
By bulletbob
August 6, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Mark has a uncanny grasp of the obvious.
Tell us about Finneran and his return from a two year injury. Contrast his attitude with that of Horn’s, of the newbies at receiver.
Tell us of the contrast in styles between Dan Reeves, and Mike Smith. Old school is now back in vogue at the Branch?
Give me something besides the obvious.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
“Turner will still need an offensive line”: Well, yes. But the Falcons clearly had to have a big back to make this new scheme work, and they bought the best available. (And I could’ve sworn they spent a No. 1 pick on a left tackle.) You’ll have to pardon me for my ignorance, but I don’t really see how that makes them stupid.
By VickBeliever
August 6, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
I can’t wait to see how YOU people respond when your Great White Hope Matt Ryan becomes the biggest bust ever. I can’t wait to see how YOU people will spin it. Furthermore, you got rid of the QB you hated so much ran his name and legacy in the mud and YOU people still don’t show show up to support the team. For the Falcons FREE roam the Dome session there was not even 5 thousands people there. The Packers had a sellout go figure. So to 790the zone morning show,Buck & Kincade all your efforts have not helped because the people you support still have chose to go hunting, play golf, fish and have backyard barn fires than support the Falcons.
By Lowcountry Bulldawg
August 6, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
Mark,
I agree with ya. I like the knock though on that OL they drafted., he has short arms. Say what?
By NYCFalcFan
August 6, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
Im looking forward to watching a little power football. If we could shore up the TE position and if the O-line plays above their heads….maybe 4-5 wins this year and some hope for the future. I think our WRs are solid (and getting better…Eh Rowdy) and our coaching staff might actually have a gimmick free old school plan in place for the future. Not to mention this is a free year from the fans (no real expectations) so no need to toss Ryan to the wolves at the first cry of “boo”. Maybe we can even build up a legitimate set of bloggers along the way. One can dream.
By Sun Tzu 7
August 6, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
The addition of Turner was a cute move this offseason.
However unless the offensive line does a better job of run blocking it’s not going to matter that much.
Oh and when your YOUNG secondary is giving up TDs and you have to play catch up football… the running game goes right out the window.
This is when Ryan has to pass behind this shaky offensive line and the other team knows it.
I guess that’s we’ll find out if Matty Ice can take the heat or if he melts…
And didn’t you love the Petrino hire?
By AtlSouthside
August 6, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
With Ryan under center the Falcons have no choice but to run the ball. That is the only way playaction will work without Vick
By GATORZONE
August 6, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Ronald Moore, Henry, and Mark Bradley I agree with you guys 100%.
I think we should have a cautious optimism for this season.
Vickbeliever, you and all the other fans of 1 player can leave. Let the true Falcon Fans return to the dome!
I live in Tampa and am a die hard fan, no matter who they line up at QB. Again, I am a TRUE fan!!!
By Orlando Rivera
August 6, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
There are no really great offensive lines in the NFL anymore people, so give it a rest. When the “greatest O-line” in the history of the game got hammered by a real defensive line in the Super Bowl that should’ve put the argument to an end. There are only great RBs who make their own progress.
As long as the Falcons aren’t playing any great run stopping teams Turner will get his yards.
Oh, for all of those Vick suckers, if you can’t wait for him to come back just pop in a Madden game and relive your memories that way. Otherwise stay off the blog!
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Ryan is a bust. The line is terrible. Turner was a bad signing. With an audience like this, the wonder isn’t that the Falcons can’t sell out the Georgia Dome. The wonder is that they’ve managed to sell a single ticket.
By dont worry about it!
August 6, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
whatever you write, i’m not worry about it bradley! call it hate or not but once again you stuck your narrow neck out there under da ginzu. with da smallest line in the nfl, vick and company was at top of the league in rushing.(mv7 broke couple of records w/less talent, not just one good yr.) now all of sudden, running off all da black production players and community stars you want me 2believe in a power-running game. against who? caroline, tampa bay, or maybe new orleans yeah i can see it now, the falcons punter will lead the league in attempts and blocks but thats progress.(plus, i think mv7 gets out in 09 2sign w/a better team and better contract) oops, let us keep hoping that the falcons offense has gotten potent and the defense can stop the other team power running game!
i’m not worry about it…lol
By JD
August 6, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
“da black production players and community stars.” haha. go falcons!
By BJ
August 6, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Don’t let them get you down, Mark. There are still true fans here in Georgia. I was a fan even after the Doug Johnson year.
By Brett Favre
August 6, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood should work out to be a good thunder and lightning tandem at running back. I am very interested in seeing how the rookie quarteback progresses this season. I’m sure he will do a fine job for the Falcons.
I’ll pass this along because it appears that some folks are misinformed as to the circumstances surrounding Mike Vick. It seems that Mike has a previous engagement with his Uncle Sam and couldn’t work the Birds into his schedule this season.
I’m going to miss seeing Mike play. While it’s true that his style is a little unconventional, there’s no question about the fact that the guy really does know how to execute.
By ChicagoPOW
August 6, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the good article Mark - yes, the Falcons returning to an organized, power running game with a big back is a story.
The departure of Duckett marked the last time we saw it, and the beginning of the speed skate chuck and duck experiment that gave Atlanta rushing titles and .500 seasons.
I think a major difference we’re going to see this year that will help Turner have a great season is more use of the TEs’ blocking abilities. I don’t think people understand that more people blocking on the line = better Offensive Line play. Last year’s scheme just didn’t do that. Baker’s going to make a difference. Dahl’s nastiness is going to make a difference. Cross training each lineman is going to make a difference. Mularkey’s got a good thing going on the offense - **can’t wait to see mouth smashing teeth kicking power offense in action!
GO FALCONS!!!**
By Famuan
August 6, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Why is it a wonder that they’ve sold a single ticket Mr. Bradley?? The Falcons have managed to sell some tickets every year since the franchise was founded, why would this season be any different?
By Lowcountry Bulldawg
August 6, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
POW,
You are right in the TE position helping the running game. I think thats why they brought in the young man from the Titans. I think it is Hartstock(OSU product). He is not as mobile and agile as Crumpler, but is to believed to be a above average blocker.
If that is in fact true does that mean the Falcons with Ryan at the helm will have a vertical passing game?
By NORTHGEORGIA FALCON FAN.
August 6, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
PLEASE LETS BELIEVE IN THE FALCONS. I’M JUST GLAD IT’S TIME TO PLAY FOOTBALL AGAIN. I ALWAYS WANT THEM TO WIN BUT WIN OR LOSE I’M ALWAYS GOING TO BE BIG FAN GO FALCONS.
By TheAntiMe
August 6, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mark, good blog. I’m sure you were just being tactful by not going there with your last comment but being as I have no tact I respectfully point out the one you overlooked:
We people, (and not even the Falcons) got rid of Mike Vick and tarnished his reputation for all posterity.
That’s wild. I helped to do that? Judas Priest, I can’t even get the ice cream man to stop for me to buy push-up.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
Something else to consider: The Falcons have a new offensive line coach in Paul Boudreau, who has worked in the NFL since 1987. Last year’s line coach was Mike Summers, who came from the college ranks with Bobby Petrino and is back with Petrino now. The Falcons, you should know, believe Boudreau is a clear upgrade.
By gp
August 6, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Without a good QB to keep NFL defenses honest, it’s 3 and out all day. Anderson had 1,800 yards but Chandler’s play-action prevented the opposing D from cheating. William Andrews had Bartkowski.
Of course BBQ Riggs had 3,000 yards rushing over 2 years with David Archer at QB (a little Turk Schonert too) which may be the exception that proves the rule.
Ryan will be a good QB one year. It is unlikely that it will be this year though.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
I’d suggest, GP, that one hand washes the other: Jamal’s pounding was what enabled Chandler’s play-action fakes to carry such weight. Indeed, that was essentially the extent of the Falcons’ offense that Super Bowl season — running between the tackles and throwing deep off play-action. Simple and effective.
I’d also suggest that nothing helps a quarterback — especially a young quarterback — more than a powerful running game.
By GATORZONE
August 6, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
I agree Mark. Everyone is thinking of that Mickey Mouse offense last year is going to be the same as this year. Paul Boudreau will make a huge difference, as will coach Mularkey!
By PreyDawg
August 6, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Mark,
Dont let the naysayers get you down. I would say you have been in this biz long enough to have a pretty thick skin by now. You are right about the pessimism. It is ramapant. The only cure I see is back to back winning seasons for once. This fan base has had their hopes raised only to have the rug pulled out from under one too many times. There is still a faithful core group out there but their numbers are dwindling.
Keep it up. Some of us know a good writer when we see one.
By Green Tea
August 6, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Ummm, “VickBeliever” will you please take your ignorant arse off this blog. You sound about as educated as a Terence Moore. Are there really people still out there who think like you? Racist POS
By terrell barron
August 6, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Leftcoastfan, you’re wrong. They’re going to put in a clause so the team he’s traded to, cant turn right around and trade him.
By Hollywould
August 6, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Good article Mark. It might be fun again to go to the Dome now. Finally, a team that will play 100% or Coach Smith will say see ya. Some people never cared about the Falcons/ just their hero/sad folks.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Thanks, PreyDawg. And my skin has, mostly from necessity, toughened over time.
By GT Brill
August 6, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
I am extremely excited about this year’s team, cause really there is no where to go but up. I am hoping for big things from Turner and Norwood. And we better hope they deliver, cause with our secondary, if we get behind by two or three scores and have to abandon the run….I don’t even want to think about it. That being said, GO BIRDS !!!
By Bailer
August 6, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
I SEE JO HORN stillthe big gold brick he was at Itamamba Jr College he does not give a damn about anyone except joe horn. If u can get a small pile of crap for him trade in a hurry, u will b much bette4r off
By McRly?
August 6, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Bradley’s got ya there: “…nothing helps a quarterback — especially a young quarterback — more than a powerful running game.” This is true. I’m willing to give Falcons another chance (heck, i’ve only been watching them since 1980, what’s another year in the life of a low down Falcons fan?) since I’m expecting us to get paid a little off the Mike Smith defense. But let’s not kid each other —lifer’s aren’t looking for playoffs this year, we’re looking for a shred of respectability. If I could have a little of that back, I’d be most appreciative. I’ve been riding on the ‘98 fumes too long now, with jilting teases in between, and we need something tangible. Give me a rowdy defense and I’ll be satisfied… I’ll give the O a year to grow up. Nuff said.
By GT Brill
August 6, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
My first Falcon’s memory that sticks with me is beating Minnesota on MNF in 73(?) We had Bob Lee at QB and I think the Vikings were undefeated going into the game. Jerry Rhea the Falcon’s trainer was a friend of the family and I got to meet Claude Humphrey, awesome for a kid. I watched us beat the Vikings again to win the NFC at Moe’s and Joe’s a great, ATL institution to celebrate something I thought may never happen, a Super Bowl trip. So anyways, I am in for the long haul…
By jerry l
August 6, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
It’s time to let MV#7 go. I love the Falcons even when Bob Berry was wearing the turf of Fulton County Stadium as a regular part of his uniform. I loved Vick when he made those crazy runs. I now will embrace the new Falcons. Give them a chance. I wish I lived in ATL to support them more.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Oct. 19, 1973: The Falcons beat the Vikings, who had won their first nine games and would win the NFC title, 20-14 on Monday night. I was a freshman in college. I remember watching the game.
By BUSHWACKER
August 6, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Late 70’s,MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL,RAMS vs FALCONS. We won on 5 field goals,I was there but too drunk to remember.Was it Luckhurst or Mazetti.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
Tim Mazzetti. The former bartender.
By BUSHWACKER
August 6, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
The bartender part I remember, thanks Mark.
By GT Brill
August 6, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mark. I remember that Rams game as well, BUSHWACKER. I think this was discussed yesterday, but any updates on our TE situation ? Sounds kinda bleak. Didn’t the Falcons re-sign George Cooper ? And Milner is hurting again ?? Sounds like a big area of concern.
By gp
August 6, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Mark,
Point well taken re a strong running game helping a young QB.
I also remember the 73 Vikings game as well. Gen. Lee vs Tarkenton. If memory serves, that is the season where Dave Hampton famously became the Falcons 1st 1,000 yard rusher. After stopping the game to acknowledge the feat, he lost a few yards later on that drive and finished the season with 997.
Speaking of the Vikings, I also remember the last home opener in the old Atl-FC Stadium in 1991 against the Vikings.
Army paratroopers parachuted into the stadium with the game ball. One of the three men got his chute hung up on the goal post and fell awkwardly breaking a leg. The Falcons hadn’t played a snap at home and already there was a body count. The Falcons went on to a 10-6 record and won the West in Glanville’s 2nd season employing the infamous run and shoot.
Considering the gimmicks of the past, a little basic power football doesn’t sound half bad.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
I don’t have a tight end update beyond what esteemed colleague Steve Wyche wrote yesterday.
As for Dave Hampton: He went over 1,000 yards but suffered the infamous 6-yard- loss in 1972; he fell three yards shy of 1,000 in 1973, and finally — hooray! — finished with 1,002 yards rushing in 1975.
By gp
August 6, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the correction. All the years start to run together after a while. Here’s hoping the Falcons get on a roll in the not so distant future making all the lowlights seem less poignant.
By Birdy
August 6, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Mark wrote: I’d also suggest that nothing helps a quarterback — especially a young quarterback — more than a powerful running game
This is very true. Perhaps I have over-simplified things a bit, but my take is that a running game and OLine makes many a Pro Bowl QB (think Philip Rivers).
We had one of the most pitiful RBs in memory going down at first sign of potential contact the last few years. This was killing the team and very few folks acknowledged it.
Turner won’t make the team great alone but he definitely won’t hinder it like #28 did in years past.
This is still the NFL where coaching makes a huge difference. And I agree the current OLine coach is a huge upgrade. Last year’s college guy had the lead guard pulling — something unheard of in the NFL (guys would shoot the gap and blow up the play before the RB even got going).
In fact, this is a staff where about 8 coaches played in the league at one point. There’s credibility and legitimate knowledge in that.
This staff is doing all kinds of dress rehearsals to prepare the players. They’re not learning on the job like last years staff.
With the right QB choices, there is a chance to be very competitive.
By Black Panther
August 6, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
The Falcons suck and will be lucky to win one game this year. Arthur Blank and his staff just don’t want a player to get arrested this year and that is their only concern. First of all we have way too many white boys on the field. Keith Brooking needs to go, both Sam Baker and Matt Ryan will be busts, and Brian Finnerman has collected in excess of 30 million dollars and hasn’t even caught 100 passes in his career. The same philosophy that the Braves utilize will be the Falcon’s ultimate downfall. The Braves thought by fielding a bunch of white boys and running off all the black athletes would be a formula for success. WRONG!! I blogged about this two years ago and told you rednecks that the braves were heading in the wrong direction and you basically called me racist and condemned me. Well, look at those sorry, slow white boys now! They suck!! So will the Falcons. The next five years, we will be lucky to win five games unless we get some “real athletes” out there! Face it, the game has just passed white guys by. O-Line, Kicker and QB are the only places where white boys can compete and they will be totally obselete within the next 3-4 yrs. And for all you necks that are about to yell” What about Tom Brady and Peyton Manning ?”, please take a good look at the superior wide receiver athletes that they are throwing the ball to, who all happen to be black!!
By Joe t.
August 6, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
The falcons led the league in rushing a couple of years in a row 2005 -2006 last year results are rather tainted by all the changes
By Joe t.
August 6, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
The falcons led the league in rushing a couple of years in a row 2005 -2006 last year results are rather tainted by all the changes
By Joe t.
August 6, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
The falcons led the league in rushing a couple of years in a row 2005 -2006 last year results are rather tainted by all the changes
By Green Tea
August 6, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Black Panther=Racist POS
You wouldn’t say that to Brian Urlacher’s face. I Promise you that you racist piece of SH#T.
By BCS Slave
August 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Mark,
Great blog. I appreciate your work. I agree that Turner should be a load. We just need to develop some depth on the line and I think all will be good.
However, with our emphasis on the run, teams will be putting 7 or 8 in the box. The QB will be forced to prove he can make completions. This is why I think Ryan will do well. He is accurate and make all the throws.
Finally, to you idiots who constantly whine about columnists being “barred” from their profession…you make me laugh. Keep ‘em coming. You just don’t get what columnists’ blogs are all about.
By Mark Bradley
August 6, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Thanks, BCS. And I agree completely about Matt Ryan.
By Coon Knight - Fist of Khonshu
August 7, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
Black Panther!!!
You be dumber than Mick Vick’s disease-riddled feces.
You be too dumb to be Mike Vick’s backup QB.
Dumb Azzzzz.
By TommyP
August 7, 2008 6:42 AM | Link to this
I like the columns and cautious optimism, Mark. I mean, if not now, when can we be optimistic???
The defense is what I’m keying on this year. The QB is either going to be a rookie or a guy that doesn’t have much of a resume.
The offensive line is being rebuilt and changing philosophies in their blocking schemes.
That leaves the defense. If this team is to be watchable, the defense must be very solid.
Ball possession football, especially when you don’t have a great QB, requires defense and very good special teams.
By falconman
August 7, 2008 7:54 AM | Link to this
I still believe that Arthur Blank is committed to winning here in Atlanta. He did everything he could do to stand behind Mike Vick. What more could Blank do when Vick looked him in the eyes and assured him he was not involved in dog fighting? The Falcons had no choice but to move on.
Last year’s hire of Petrino is a hard one to defend. I didn’t like the hire but AB didn’t ask for my take. Blank obviously bought into Petrino’s success on the college level, especially the part about wide open offenses and scoring alot of points. It didn’t work, so let’s move on.
I like the latest hires by Blank. Dimitroff should understand what it takes to win having experienced all the success with the Patriots. Mike Smith is a no nonsense guy with a solid NFL resume. Michael Turner has paid his dues and was obviously convinced that Blank and the Falcons are committed to winning.
I like the new plan. I’m convinced that in order to win in the NFL, the first two requirements are playing good defense and running the football. I’m not sure how many wins we will get this year, but I think we are headed in the right direction. I’m also glad that self centered players like D. Hall are out of here. He wasn’t all that. Remember the Carolina game last year? He single handedly lost that one for us.
Hope to see you guys at the Dome supporting this new team. My seats are in 321.
By Sherman
August 7, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this
Ok, I must be older than everybody that blogs. I remember being a junior in HS and watching the first pre season game from some little HS stadium somewhere. Tommy Nobis seemed like he made every tackle and I think we lost to the Eagles 6-0. Been watching ever since and I agree with the guy who said just some respectability would be great. Think they have a good coach with a plan.
By VickBeliever
August 7, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
You Matt Ryan lovers I guarantee you guys have not seen him play. He just looks like the QB that you want to support. You heard it from me first. Matt Ryan will be the biggest bust in NFL history. All that money they paid him and he will be awful just wait till the live bullets start coming at him (defensive lineman, blitz packages, cover 2, zone, etc. I wonder what excuse you KKK’s will make then.
By Roger
August 7, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
The Falcons are rebuilding a team from the ground up. The future looks great, we have a few holes to fill but feel we are difinetly headed in the right direction.
Go Birds