Mark Bradley

By Thorpe

August 22, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Ryan looked like a pro tonight!

It sure looks good to have an actual QB under center for the Falcons.

Great draft pick Dimitroff!

Go Falcons.

By Jesse

August 22, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Well, 15-21 for 103 yards at one point in the game seems like Joey Harrington Numbers. Are we going to throw the ball down the field or just dump it off all the time?

By Ted from Alpharetta

August 22, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Baker did more than hold his own against Vanden Bosch. He played well. I would not be at all surprised to see this team win 8 games this year. Ryan is the smart QB that we have not had here since Bart. He is the face of the franchise for the next 10 years. Good job Dimitroff.

By Myron

August 22, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

WOW! What a difference a QB makes!

Ryan looks VERY poised for a rookie. I think the Falcons are doing a great job of building from the ground up: Turner, Norwood, Baker, Ryan! Things are looking up.

Go Falcons!

By russ

August 22, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Jesse, I understand your point, but you have to realize the playbook hasn’t been completely opened for the rookie yet. I just have to say that he showed me one thing tonight—poise! No happy feet and he seems to know how to move in the pocket that the o-line gives him. Good show Matt.

By Jack

August 22, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

For everyone wanting to see Ryan “throw deep” tonight, please understand that offenses DO NOT scheme long drops for QB’s when playing against aggressive blitzing defenses like the Titans. The gameplan was for Ryan/Redman to take 3 and 5 step drops and hit 6-16 yard passes. It seems to have worked pretty well. Believe it or not, the Falcons coaches actually know a thing or two about football.

Go Falcons!

By Titans Starters

August 22, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Ummmm….Albert Haynesworth, Keith Bullock and Nick Harper did not even dress for the game. So keeping that in mind and its preseason where Joey had a marvelous couple of preseason games last year. Big whoop! LOL

3-13, get ready for a top 5 pick for the next half decade.

By b-man

August 22, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

They aren’t going to score many touchdowns? They are not going to win many games? Why not? I think they looked physical and have a nice set of skill players. Why not slide a little optimism into your article. It’s real. Falcons 9-7 in 2008!

By Rick James

August 22, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

.

Yes, it does appear that Ryan is indeed the man.

.

By Mark Bradley

August 22, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

Let’s not get carried away. This team has definite personnel limitations. But I think it will be well coached, and I think it will play a lot of close games. And I’ll stand with my prediction of 5-11. Please, however, bear in mind that many, many outlets have rated this team as the NFL’s absolute worst, and I therefore consider a forecast of 5-11 reasonably optimistic.

By krogunner

August 22, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Bradley=Poor excuse for a journalist and the biggest Homer/Suck Up. Atleast he’s not writing worthless stories about the “most obnoxious fans”. The most obnoxious fans are the ones that are winning. If any other team in the SEC had 4 National Titles in the last 12 years in the two major sports, they’d be viewed as obnoxious as well.

By Thorpe

August 22, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bradley:

What was your impression of all of the short drops and quick throws (to several different receivers) implemented by the Falcons tonight?

It was a little bit of a different look from years past, eh?

By Skip Floyd

August 22, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

Ryan played well tonight. He did not play as well as Redman. Ryan needs a little more time to devlope and should be ready to take over after the bye game if he continues to progress.

The Falcon defence gets better every game and is looking good. I think this team is going to be better and win more games than anyone thinks.

By Telson

August 22, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

It’s only the pre-season, we’ll see what happens when it’s for real.

Also, I agree with Krogunner, about time we got a real football article. How subjective and Biased was the last? And LSU and UT so low? Obviously hasn’t spent any real time in Baton Rouge or Knoxville.

By Mark Bradley

August 22, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

If I’m not mistaken, short drops and quick throws were a hallmark (if that’s the correct word) of the West Coast offense. But I think Matt Ryan is more suited to such a thing than the former quarterback — whose name I dare not mention lest people get upset with me for dredging up the past — was.

And I also think short drops and quick throws are a smart way of not getting a rookie quarterback sacked. This is, you should know, a pretty sharp coaching staff.

By Howie

August 22, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

There is one word that keeps reoccuring in these columns and blogs about Ryan….POISE!!! Yes, he does have more poise than any rookie qb I can remember. Maybe its because he has a contract and doesnt have to worry about making the team. However, I do believe this young man is for real… He appears to be a natural born leader. We’ll know for sure when he and the team are having those bad days Bradley mentions….We’ll see how cool and calm he remains then….

By Mark Bradley

August 22, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Redman was playing against the subs. Ryan was playing against the Tennessee starters. Keep that in mind.

And Telson is mad that the last article was biased and subjective, but he’s also mad that my perceived biases didn’t agree with his? How do you square that one?

By Griffin

August 22, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

Wow it has beena good 5 or 6 years since we have had a starting quarterback with a brain. How refreshing.

By NUNNA YO BIzNEzz

August 22, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

I DON’T KNOW WHAT GAME YOU ALL WATCHED,OR HEARD,I WAS AT THE GAME TONITE..

THIS WAS A PRE-SEASON GAME.. HIS ARM IS WEAK.. HE IS SLOW.. HE HAS NO SPEED ON THE BALL.. HE LOOKS HIS RECIEVERS ALL THE WAY IN.. HE IS GARBAGE.. HE WILL BE A NO.3 OR 4 SIGNAL CALLER FOR THE GA.FORCE IN 2 YEARS..AND WE WILL BE LOOKING FOR A NEW GM,BECAUSE YOU GM SAID HE LIKED RYAN BECAUSE HE SOUNDS LIKE TOM BRADY,LMAO…

By NUNNA YO BIzNEzz

August 22, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

I DON’T KNOW WHAT GAME YOU ALL WATCHED,OR HEARD,I WAS AT THE GAME TONITE..

THIS WAS A PRE-SEASON GAME.. HIS ARM IS WEAK.. HE IS SLOW.. HE HAS NO SPEED ON THE BALL.. HE LOOKS HIS RECIEVERS ALL THE WAY IN.. HE IS GARBAGE.. HE WILL BE A NO.3 OR 4 SIGNAL CALLER FOR THE GA.FORCE IN 2 YEARS..AND WE WILL BE LOOKING FOR A NEW GM,BECAUSE YOU GM SAID HE LIKED RYAN BECAUSE HE SOUNDS LIKE TOM BRADY,LMAO…

By Ryder

August 22, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

Titan Starters,

Hmmmm, I seem to remember a certain QB playing tonight that stunk up the joint: VINCE YOUNG! As long as he is your QB the Titans will always ABSOLUTELY SUCK! No receivers, third rate running back committee, and your kicker is the only offensive weapon you really have.

Enjoy your 6-10 record this year marks!

By Boo Boo

August 22, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

The last real head coach the Falcons had (present coach not counted), a number one QB draftee sat the bench most of his first year. He was allowed to get his feet wet a game here and a game there, before allowing divisional teams to try their best to injure him. The second year that QB became the full-time starter and he responded by having his best season in his NFL career. Year three, the QB was broken in preseason, the team flopped, the head coach was fired. When the QB came back healthy, he never could find the magic of his second season.

Mike Vick was more of a quarterback his second year. He averaged passing for 195 yeards per game. When the team ran for 200 yards per game (with Vick’s stats included) some people wondered how great the Falcons could be if Vick still could pass for 195 yeards per game, rather than 100 or 77. When the running game was shut down, Vick could not pass the Falcons to victory.

The future is now in the hands of Matt Ryan; but never begin to think a QB that passes for 102 yards in 3 quarters, who leads a team to a 3 - 3 halftime tie, is ready to have his best season. Preseason is all about tricking teams into starting their weakest links, so when the whistle blows for real season the losers immediately assume the position.

Redman should start. Ryan should learn how to start by watching Redman start. Then, when the other team is winded from running all over the Falcons, slip Ryan in to get some glory.

Bobby Cox turned the Braves from perenial losers into perenial winners by taking young Glavine and Smoltz out of a game in the 6th inning, after the tying runners got on base. When the Braves blew another game, those two never took the loss. They only learn to win by experiencing winning while they are in the game.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Just wondering if SOME OF YOU can actually make a case for Ryan’s projected ability without bringing up the former QB’s name. Why do SOME OF YOU feel the need to rip the former QB in order to make your case for Ryan? If you’re pulling for Ryan, then do that. You don’t have to cut down the former QB to do so. Remember, of all the players we’ve had under center over the last 9 seasons or so, only 1 of them has led us to the postseason. Trust me, I’m aching for someone (anybody!) to lead us there again!

Anyway, I’m pulling for Ryan to succeed because I would like to at least see the team play near .500 this season. But as Bradley said, let’s not get carried away. I’ll take it a step further & say let’s not rush to assume “we’ve finally got” the QB of some of you all’s dreams. It’s too early! Some of you same folks we’re hollering that “there’s a new sheriff in town” when Petrino took over. Haven’t you learned anything? So please, in our haste to close the book on the previous “era,” let’s not get carried away!

By NCFalconFan

August 23, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

**Mr. Bradley,

Do you think Ryan could handle the pressure of being the starter Day 1? With every game I see those “intangilbes that everyone talked about before the draft. He is a leader!!**

Why is everyone downing the short passes? If they are working why not dump them off? Also it eats up the clock. I belive Ryan’s TD drive ate up 8 minutes.

By Yawn...

August 23, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

That was the most dull game I’ve ever seen in the NFL…even by it being pre-season. Ryan provides no element of surprise in the game…Falcons fans are used to our QB having MULTIPLE attack abilities…therefore keeping the defense on their toes and wondering…If he starts, I definitely won’t be watching alot of falcons games this year. Even though I wish them well. The falcons as a whole are a decent team, however…I don’t see much happening to MAKE the fans wanna tune in…Other than the ones who have high expectations for Ryan: “The Great Hope” supposedly coming to save the Franchise…I think Athur Blank (etc.) are just getting kinda desperate right now (after all that has happened with head coaches/team members) and they are just looking for SOMEONE…ANYONE to believe in and rally the falcons fans behind…KNOWING that this is a business for Authur, Ryan would not be his best move. The game tonight was DRIVEN off of the run, because Ryan’s short passes were getting no where lol…So Congrats to Norwood and all the others who were able to move us down field.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

I think Ryan wants to be the starting quarterback very much and has prepared himself for the assignment as much as anyone can prepare. He is a leader. He is very secure in his abilities. If any rookie can be said to be ready to start Game 1 of Season 1, he’s it.

By Duce

August 23, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

BIERMANN!!!

By Mona

August 23, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

Matt Ryan = Weak Arm

Michael Vick = Weak Mind

Ryan makes me proud to be a Falcons fan again.

BURN IN HELL, MICHAEL VICK!

By timmy jones

August 23, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this

mike vick kisses peepees.

By jim

August 23, 2008 1:52 AM | Link to this

honestly, this game didn’t count. if haynesworth doesn’t play, then the tennessee defense didn’t play either. when haynesworth got hurt last year and sat out a couple games, the titans D didn’t even look the same and they weren’t.

that being said, ryan could have a field day against the lions and give everyone a false sense of hope.

would you agree, bradley?

By MAS83

August 23, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this

Rally up the gang lets break Mike out of the clink!!!

By Jay

August 23, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

I just wanted to comment on this silly multiple attack options post. Does peyton manning present multiple attack options? Does tom Brady, or Carson Palmer? No, they sit back there and disect the defense. That’s what win’s championships. The next QB in the NFL who is a great runner, but ok passer wins a Super Bowl will be the first! In the NFL you have to be accurate with the football, and you have to get the ball to open receivers on time. Am I suggesting Matt Ryan is Manning, Brady, or Palmer, not right now he is not. But the one thing I do notice is that he knows where to go with the football. Eventually the offense can open up as he gets more comfortable and we can have a very dynamic offense.

Also: I’ll put $1000 down that it’ll be a long time before a “multiple” attack options QB like the one we had, Vince Young, Alex Smith, and Tim Tebow EVER win a Super Bowl. You have to throw the ball accurately and dissect defenses to win Superbowls.

By MAS83

August 23, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

Rally up the gang lets break Mike out of the clink!!!

By drmondo

August 23, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

What happened to Jamaal? His stat line isn’t impressive. As someone who couldn’t see the game, how did the DL look?

By Micah

August 23, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, You are just immature as some of these fans in Atlanta are. Why can’t you say Mike Vick or Michael Vick instead of “you know who?” It’s sad but I forget this is Atlanta where if you support Vick you’re stupid and if you don’t waste your money on preseason then you aren’t a die hard fan.

Now, from the highlights I saw and the stats I thought Matt Ryan did pretty good. It’s nothing I am going to get excited over, but the way he spoke to the linemen was something worth noticing. I am not a Ryan fan. I really wanted ATL to give DJ a fair shot but I knew better than to think that would happen, but I would also be crazy to think that Ryan hasn’t shown that he can grow into a good QB.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

Jay, wow…you seem to have some read on Ryan…after 3 pre-season games! By the way, how many Super Bowls do Palmer & Manning have between the two of them? The ability to “throw the ball accurately and dissect defenses” doesn’t win Super Bowls. Teams win Super Bowls & most teams that win them are led by a QB that simply knows how to win. It’s not a statistics thing, it’s an “it” factor thing. I’m not saying skills don’t factor into the equation, but there’s more to a QB than the 2 skills you seem to be infatuated with. Does he know how to win? For every non-“multiple attack” QB you name that has led his team to the Super Bowl, I can name 5 that have failed miserably. Broaden your tunnel vision.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 3:07 AM | Link to this

John Abraham looked good, as usual. Jamaal Anderson played some at tackle and some at defensive end and didn’t seem to distinguish himself at either spot.

I would say the clock is ticking on Anderson. Remember, the guy who drafted him is no longer in charge of football operations.

By jim

August 23, 2008 3:18 AM | Link to this

BRADLEY IS THE MAN!!!! HANGING WITH THE YOUNG BIRDS THIS LATE AT NIGHT!

By jim

August 23, 2008 3:42 AM | Link to this

hey mr. knowitall welikebaseball2,

ryan does have the “it” factor. anyone who saw last year’s bc vs. vatech game knows that.

and you can say “yeah, but the vatech game was” blah blah blah

but the fact remains…the team was in the national championship hunt (because of him) and he, on the road, down two scores with less than 2 minutes left, on national tv, LED his team to a comeback victory.

bottom line.

AND

he’s not using his signing bonus money to fund an illegal dogfighting ring. not that the gold standard is refraining from dogfighting, but still….

By jim

August 23, 2008 4:33 AM | Link to this

suck it vick lovers…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ri1Kl-5YZgY

By Dr. Warren

August 23, 2008 4:51 AM | Link to this

Mark, I am in a quandary over Jamaal Anderson. The Falcons traded places with the Texans, took Anderson, and the man they should’ve taken, Okoye, seems to be doing quite well at Houston. What is Anderson’s problem in your opinion? And when you suggest they are about to give up on him already—wow, after one season and a mediocre preseason??—what exactly do you think will happen to him?

By Real

August 23, 2008 5:11 AM | Link to this

Ryan is not the answer. Period. I can already see the O-line taking the heat for this guy’s shortcommings.

I hope the Falcons at least get to .500

By jerry

August 23, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this

If what we have seen so far from Thomas Brown is the best kick returner they have then there are going to be a lot of possessions at their own twenty. And maybe Jamaal can make it at tackle because he sure can’t rush the passer.

By eazy

August 23, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this

He was gave the jo Matt(chris miller) Ryan

By eazy

August 23, 2008 7:45 AM | Link to this

We have annointed him after wiinning 1 preason game. If Alex Smith, Matt lienart, David Carr and the host of other big bust didnt pan out what make you think Ryan who had a less dubious college career than the others, wiii make the birds better. He played weaker compitetion and against lees speed than the others, what are management seeing that we not seeing.

By kj

August 23, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this

Hey Yawn….if you want watch that kind of football it’s played at college campuses all over the country. The Falcons are trying to build an NFL team. The short passes did nothing? Come on, they moved the sticks and kept the Falcons poor defense off the field. The goal this year is to keep Ryan from getting killed by NFL teams that tee off on rookie QB’s and to keep the other teams offense off the field and pound Turner so they can maybe pull out a close low scoring game in the 4th quarter. I was a huge fan of the other QB but he’s gone so lets move on an support the Birds and Matt Ryan……..Keep in mind that for all the excitement that the other QB brought to the field each and every week he never enjoyed back to back winning seasons and for all the arm stength that he did have he could’nt check down and dump the ball off to keep the chains moving……Go birds!!!!

By eazy

August 23, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

Atlanta fans and team managers need to stop looking for the great white hype. Thats why the braves only has 1 world series ring. Thats why the Hawks keep drafting foriegners(up until new owners)and Blank has reverted back to the Smiths ways. We will never see a championship of any type again because of the racist attitudes here in this state.

By bigeasy830

August 23, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

By Boo Boo MV7 regressed because of the coaching change. We had terrible coaching by Knapp and Mora Jr.during those years, but MV7 had himself to blame for that because he lead the charge in running Dan Reeves out of town.

By Dr. Warren, The problem with Jamaal Anderson is that he does not have a quick first step. He comes off the line to slow. He does not have the physical tools to be a good D-lineman in this league. Without that burst from the snap, the O-lineman are able to set their feet and get their hands on the D-linman and once that happens its over for any pass rush and the O-linman can then control the D-linman even on run plays.

The Falcons rookies will have their ups and downs but I am impressed with what I have seen so far. Sam baker has looked very good and I was against us drafting him but he looks like a baller.

By Famuan

August 23, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

When Haynesworth, Bullock and Harper are all not even dressed for the game, I don’t think you can righteously say Ryan played against the Titans #1 defense. That being said, he’s a regular average QB at best. The Falcons will pick at #3 or higher in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

By eazy's momma

August 23, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

ATLANTA BRAVES BASEBALL

WELCOME TO THE NIGS.

By ScoobySnacks

August 23, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

I gotta speak up here. Did somebody compare Ryan to Bartkowski Are you kidding.

Let’s not get crazy. The boy looks OKAY so far. Nothing more than okay PERIOD.

I am not that impressed yet. Sure he makes his reads alright. But I am not seeing the ball get in receivers hands on a consistent enough basis. The claim made last night was that he has accuracy. Well where is it!

By Gunner

August 23, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Now wopuldn’t it be nice if we could draft Michael Oher next year

By Falcon Freddie

August 23, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

Getting excited over “so so” preseason play is pathetic. If I’m not mistaken, Mr. Ryan missed two easy touchdowns to receivers that were open in the end zone. He also tripped over his own feet on one play. This was all but glossed over by the announcers and Mark Bradley. The receivers needed to be 8 feet tall to even have a shot at his errant passes. I did not see anything that would make me think Atlanta will be any more than a 5-11 team this year and maybe worse if injuries set in to the now much heralded offensive line. It is apparent that most of the Ryan supporters are the usual Vick haters who are praying and hoping this thing goes well to prove their claim that Atlanta needs a traditional drop back, stay in the pocket QB to win. During Week 17 when Atlanta will be nowhere near contention, I wonder what the excuses will be??? You will see article after article on how it is Michael Vick’s fault. I’m not downing Matt Ryan, but he is not Tom Brady and Atlanta even with their college scout and recruiter as GM is not the New England Patriots.

By Famuan

August 23, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Bradley is back to playing personal PR man for Matt Ryan. I swear, a white boy comes along and he can’t stop himself from talking about him, where was this “journalistic interest” in the person who actually MADE the Falcons a PROFIT? That Dome won’t be full again until the SEC Championship. Matt Ryan is no better than half these sorry QBs in the NFL that keep getting chance after chance when better QBs get the “he’s not an NFL QB” tag before they can even get a shot at all (watch what happens to Pat White). The Falcons will languish in below average to hopefully average mediocrity for the next 4 or 5 years before Blank blows a gasket and starts the “rebuilding” process again. I can’t wait for the non-cap year and watch the lowly Falcons look shocked when not even 3rd tier free agents will look their way unless they are getting paid Hall of Fame money and ticket prices drop to $5 and a free pizza.

Yeah Bradley, keep up the good work for King Arthur. Talk about obvious bullsh*t

By Falcon Freddie is RIGHT

August 23, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

You hit the bullseye! SO TRUE!!

By country boy

August 23, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Maybe Ryan should start and maybe not … but for sure he was the right draft choice for the Falcons. He will be a solid NFL quarterback -if not better than solid. No one is talking Glen Dorsey in this blog. I like big Baker. He was a very good draft choice. As I have posted before Baker is a rookie that can help this team greatly on the first snap of the season. Good draft GM Dimitrof as Ryan, Baker and Douglas are NFL players. Probably the same with Lofton and LSU cornerback that had an INT. We will be good in a couple of years. Let’s all enjoy the ride up.

By Marc

August 23, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

The ignorance of our fanbase amazes me.

How in the world can anyone knock on Matt’s accuracy? Why don’t you look at the numbers before saying such ignorant things:

Game 1 - 60% Game 2 - 50% Game 3 - 70%

And as of now he has a 2-1 TD/INT ratio.

All from a ROOKIE QB!!!!

Yes, I know it is preseason and things are different in the regular season but to say Ryan hasn’t played well so far and is not accurate is complete stupidity.

I see many things out of Ryan to give us hope. He is a leader. How many rookie QB’s do you see talking to his OL like he did? How many rookie QB’s do you see calling audibles at the line in their FIRST game in the NFL?

I believe the kid has “it” and it is quite aparent to me. Does it mean will we will win a lot of games this year? I have no idea, it depends on how the team around him performs. Football, afterall, is a TEAM SPORT.

By Sharon Falcon

August 23, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Dear VIck Supporters,

Tonight is “Urban Night” in Hell. Why don’t you all go there and keep it real instead of the Dome from now on?

You can all get a table in the VIP Room with Bernie and Tupac and chill until Vick and Blank get there.

I hope Blank has learned his lesson about gearing and marketing his entire NFL franchise to appeal to thugs living south of I-20 instead of actual FOOTBALL FANS on the north side of town who buy tickets regardless of the race or skin color of the quarterback.

i wonder if Blank got many STDs from Vick.

By Golfer

August 23, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

I have been following the falcons for years. Yes Vick is an “exciting player”and will be when he comes back into the league(because he will, sells$)probably with the “RAAIDERS, anyway however he has never demonstrated he has enough grey matter between the ears to play at this position at this level, and he joins a large group. He just did not “get it”. You dont throw a screen pass from 5-7yards at 70mph, heck no one is going to catch that. Obviously his speed/athletic ability overshadowed his shortcomings between the ears. That being said, Ryan certainly does not have the athletic ability(speed, quickness)that the aformentioned does however he does “get it” between the ears. Yes its going to be a tough year with alot of battle scars on their rear-ends but we all go through that with our new jobs and that is what it is, a job and hopefully a stellar career. I personally feel that this team will not only be physical in years to come but “smart/cunning” also. We have culled the “poison” on this team this year and it’s Smith’s job to lose, but he also stepped up to the plate to do it his way with his team. It’s hard to be successful anywhere regardless of what your doing if you can’t choose your team. He can’t use a “crutch” now if he is not successful in the next 3-5 years which is the “right” thing to do. I believe the Birds will be successfull in years to come and who know’s maybe a consistant play-off team even when we have “fans would call” a bad year. Make no mistake about it Smith/Dimeroff are intelligent folks and they do know football but again so did the others. There is a common thread however with these two guys, work smart not hard.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

August 23, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

I think the new GM and coaching staff are doing a good job so far in trying to rebuild this team. I hope the best for Ryan because starting at QB as a rookie is no easy task. He does seem to have a good head on his shoulders and appears to be able to handle it. Its going to be slow process getting this team back into playoff contention but not as long as most think IMO. I also believe the Falcons are going to surprise alot of folks this year and make more progress than most believe. So here’s to Blank, the new GM, Coach Mike Smith and all the Flacons- go out there and show them you are NOT the worst team in the league and kick some glutomous maximus!!

GO FALCONS!!!

By Vince

August 23, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

All of Atlanta was sooo upset when Mike Vick was arrested. Vick was never an NFL quarterback, he was a running back playing quarterback, a cheap side show to put fans in the stands. Now after its been so long I cannot remember when Atlanta had a real quarterback we finally get one. O-line do your job do not let Ryan get hurt.

By im4ball

August 23, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

The thing about Ryan is his potential and his intellgence. In this pre-season he shown that he knows what passes throw (touch or hard), where to throw the ball to a reciever (high, low, inside, outside) and which recievers to throw to.

Yes he will make mistakes but Ryan is a quarterback in the mold of Peyton Manning and Tom Brady and I am glad the Falcons have him.

I also am liking Mike Smith. I know its only preseason but he seems to have decent game plans and you can tell the team really responds to his leadership. I also like that Smith appears to note and correct mistakes the players make. Each week things seem to change for the better. While some of the Falcons past coaches have had the talk, this guy seems to back his talk up.

By north Ga falcon

August 23, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

And the comment of the morning go’s to eazy. “He played against weaker competition and lesser speed than the others”. Oh yea david carr at fresno st. and alex smith at Utah played against better competition than Ryan who played in the ACC. Everbody knows that teams like Florida st., Miami, and VA tech don’t have any speed. LOL! Eazy is this mornings recipient of the Mental defective award.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Ryan freely admitted he made two bad throws in the red zone. And absolutely we ought to chastise him endlessly for those — in the history of the Falcons, those were the first bad throws ever made by one of their quarterbacks.

As for Jamaal Anderson, I’ll say it again: This is a big year for him, given that Rich McKay (who drafted him No. 8 overall) is no longer charged with building the roster. Anderson needs to show a lot more very soon.

By Wesley

August 23, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

This is a freaking football player.

If the Falcons have to coddle someone along, then maybe they aren’t cut out for the job.

Throw Matt to the wolves, he will succeed…relatively speaking.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

And this to Jim: Thanks for noticing. But I’ve always been kind of a night person.

By John AYoub

August 23, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

NO NO NO. Stop making stuff up. Ryan had a very average night in a preseason game. Chris Redman is clearly better right, and should start until Ryan figures out what is going on. No reason to get him killed yet, and have him lose his confidence. We are not that bad a team, and Redman gives us the best chance to win right now. Yes. Ryan will be given a chance to be the starter, but just hold your horses- people. Our Defense is going to be good, and we have good backs. This is not as terrible team as everybody thinks.

By coffenated

August 23, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

More than anything else, Atlanta needs Patience & Consistency.

Dimitrof had no choice but to gut this team and rebuild from ground up & the “back to basics” approach by Smith is laying the ground work for a fundamentally sound team…which is THE key to rebuilding.

Falcon’s fans must be patient though, it will probably take a few years until the playoffs are a realistic goal. Give the new regime time to get the players they want and time for players to grasp the system.

Also, I not in favor or Ryan starting as a rookie, I would much rather him learn & observe for much or all of his first year. I think Redman has proven himself capable until Ryan is ready.

Consistency is also key for a young QB, I think it would be IMPORTANT if Ryan can have the same Coach & Off. Cord. during his “growing” years. It helps a young QB if he has to learn one playbook.

In closing, I really like the direction the Falcon’s are moving, they had a exciting young core (Ryan, Turner, Norwood, White, Baker) and a GM and Coach who seem to understand football.

Go Falcons!!!

By Curious George

August 23, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

How come you never heard any football coaches, scouts, sports writers, pro football analysts or even fans using the word “intelligent” when talking about Michael Vick or his abilities as an NFL QB?

By Orlando

August 23, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Mark Bradley,

Could you do us a favor? Just show the youtube clip of Ryan leading the comeback charge against Virginia Tech last year and how he took charge. No comments needed, that’ll shut up these moronic fanboys who think that Ryan should already be throwing 300 yard, 5 TD games every time he steps between the lines.

Here’s what you fools don’t get, Atlanta is built to be a RUNNING TEAM. Matt Ryan and the passing game is secondary in Mularkey’s system.

When the real games start, the person to look for is Michael Turner. He’s going to PUNISH any poor defensive player who comes his way.

Guaran-dam-teed, MT will be the guy that fans will flock to see this year while Ryan gets his feet wet!

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

“Chris Redman is clearly better right now.” Are you serious? The same Chris Redman who hasn’t played in the first half of either of the past two exhibitions?

By jerry

August 23, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

The defensive schemes that Ryan will see cominmg at him when the real play begins are going to be a lot more complex than what he’s seen thus far. Remember, pre-season is used to teach and evaluate yong players and incoming vets. When the season starts, the players that are up to speed will be playing. It’s going to be a long season regardless of who the QB is, because this teams more talent on defense.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Actually, the Falcons were pleasantly surprised at how much, scheme-wise, Jacksonville’s defense showed two weeks ago, and how well Matt Ryan handled it.

By SlimG

August 23, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Gotta give the D some credit. Like the coaching again since Dan left or was ran out. Matti will be fine, makes all the throws and finally we seem to have an Oline. Wasn’t really impressed with Turner. Seems like the backup he was in paradise.

Needs: 1. Wide receiver who can go get the ball(Calvin Johnson makes those catches in the end zone) 2. Middle defensive player who can stop the run 3. Right tackle with some brains 4. Kicker who can consistently make a 35 yarder 5. More nastiness….Did you hear what Tenn. thought? 6. More white fans at the dome, oh yeah this is Atlanta 7. Outdoor stadium with auto roof

By Same Ole Falcons

August 23, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

These are the same ole 5-11 Falcons that we all know and love. Thank you Blank! We were starting to get hopeful but now you’ve bought back the normalcy! No more thinking about playoffs in late November! Who needs that? We know in late September to start getting excited for the DRAFT! Oh its back to the good ole days of listening to the game on the radio! No more of that festive tailgating. Who needs that anyway? No more feverishly trying to get a ticket to the Monday night game, besides its too late a game! Dont need that! Yep, these are the Falcons we know and love! Back to having that “traditional” (hint hint - pilgrim) QB and half filled Dome while getting kicked by the Bucs! Oh this is great! Look how excited the AJC is to have its TEAM back! They were so angry the last 7 years but now they are SOOOO happy to write about the hapless, hopeless, dont- even-think-about-the- playoffs Falcons!

Oh, dont be mad that the games are blacked out! This is the way it should be. Just because 90% of the people that DO go dont even have on a jersey, well that’s what you should expect! Its the SAME OLE FALCONS. Who needs relevance or even respect from the other teams in the league? NOT US! We like being the doormat of the NFL!! THanks Blank!

By John Murphy

August 23, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

For fun I took a look at how BC has done against the SEC and surprise they have a winning record to include beating the Dogs the last two times they played.

Mat Ryann does appear to process things very quickly, seems to be a real strong leader and character guy, I believe he will develop into a top NFL QB. I however don’t that it is a good idea to push someone into battle, could hurt a guys confidence big time

By PreyDawg

August 23, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Mark,

Does it ever scare you a little the vitriol of some of these posters? Wow!! I can understand feeling pooped on a little after my own 34 year experience as a Falcon fan. But geez. Some of these folk take gloom and doom to a new level. One guy says you are a complete homer that is in Blanks pocket another says “how bout a little optimism”.

And what dolt said we will wallow in mediocrity for the next 5 years??!! This is the most competent and proffesional staff we have had since Reeves first two seasons. Only there is one improvement over that staff and coach. This group seems to understand how to bend their plan to the best advantage against the team they are playing that week. Reeves was a little too stubborn for that.

This draft has already proven to be our best in years with Ryan, Baker, and Lofton all looking like future pro bowlers.

There should be optimisim and I sense a fair dose in your articles. I tip my hat to you. I think you are pretty balanced with just a touch of homer in you. I want that from the AJC sports page. If I want constant criticism of my teams I will look to other web sites or read Terrance.

Keep that thick skin thick and keep doing what you are doing. Some of these folks are just flat out psycho.

By LT

August 23, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

After watching the game last night, I am actually optimistic with this teams future. I think Ryan looked really good. With some improvements on the O-line next year, this team has the tools to be a contender. Turner/Norwood look like a great 1-2 punch in the running game, and Ryan is going to get better.

For some reason, I don’t think we’re ever gonna have to read stories about a Falcons QB flipping off the fans at home or away- let alone getting thrown in jail for some spectactularly stupid reason. See ya Mike Vick- and hopefully his fan base with him.

By DirtyDawg

August 23, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

I don’t know the latest about D J, nor do know how it works with the NFL when they want to hold onto a guy even if he’s not on the roster - practice squad, or whatever - but I hope, for DJ’s sake, that he gets a chance to go someplace else. The Falcons have a history of making the wrong choice about quarterback…then again, they don’t do very well at any position…so do the kid a favor and let him go. Somebody out there needs a mobile, strong-arm, smart quarterback and, at the same time, will be able to evaluate his talent without the ‘going-in’ prejudice that if he went to UGA he must not be all that great.

The kid hasn’t had a chance to play with the # 1 offense at anytime, sometime, somewhere he will and we’ll be saying, ‘damn, who made the decision to let him get away?’

By 30Rock

August 23, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

First…Kudos to Sam Baker and the entire O-Line, Chris Lofton and the guy that has impressed me the most, Brent Grimes.

Congratulations to Matt Ryan. He has EARNED the starting job out of the four options we have.

Although I am a bit bothered by the coaching staff for trying to sell the illusion of “open competition” for all 4 QBs (DJ Shockley never had a legitimate shot and they never really considered it), I am pleased with the way they are coaching the team.

It’s obvious that the players, O-Line, DBs and receivers in particular, are being coached up. And the coaches are handling Matt Ryan exactly the way they should. They are running a basic (and to some boring) offensive package to give Matt and the O-Line the best opportunity to succeed. This is a good thing.

While Matt Ryan may not be a source of excitement, I think we have a good thing with Michael Turner, Jerious Norword and what I believe will be a group of playmaking receivers led by Roddy White. During the 16 game season they will give fans something to cheer about. I think finally we have a coaching staff that will give Norwood real opportunities to use his explosive speed as a weapon against opposing defenses.

As a Mike Vick fan (there I said it…), I ask all of his supporters and non-supporters alike to give this new look Atlanta Falcons team a chance.

By Same Ole Falcons

August 23, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Preydawg said “This is the most competent and proffesional staff we have had since Reeves first two seasons.”

ROFLMAO!!! Yep, that’s what you said when Mora got here and that’s what you said with Petrino too! Know what Bradley wrote then? Go look at the AJC archives when both got hired and right before the first training camp. The only difference was NAMES*

Oh well, enough of all that! Lets just get back to regular 5-11 seasons and complete apathy from the public. Lets get back to the days when the Falcons really were not a draw, oh, wait, we are there right now!! SAME OLE FALCONS!

By Falcons Suck

August 23, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

For all you optimistic fans here is a reality check. The dirty birds will not beat detroit so please tell me which teams you will beat this year.

Detroit 1:00 pm Sun 9/14 at Tampa Bay 4:05 pm Sun 9/21 Kansas City 1:00 pm Sun 9/28 at Carolina 1:00 pm Sun 10/5 at Green Bay 1:00 pm Sun 10/12 Chicago 1:00 pm bye
Sun 10/26 at Philadelphia 1:00 pm Sun 11/2 at Oakland 4:15 pm Sun 11/9 New Orleans 1:00 pm Sun 11/16 Denver 1:00 pm Sun 11/23 Carolina 1:00 pm Sun 11/30 at San Diego 4:05 pm Sun 12/7 at New Orleans 1:00 pm Sun 12/14 Tampa Bay 1:00 pm Sun 12/21 at Minnesota 1:00 pm Sun 12/28 St. Louis 1:00 pm

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Here’s who they’ll beat: Detroit, Kansas City, Oakland, Carolina (here) and St. Louis.

Thanks for asking.

By MVick

August 23, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Hey sharon falcon…I told you I was sorry for giving you that stuff. You don’t have to broadcast it all over the web. Biaccch…

By Only the Falcon Fans

August 23, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

LOL! How pathetic! Only the Falcons fans would be raving over a preseason game. You get average play in preseason and start talking like its a December run for the playoffs. LOL

By Only the Falcons Fans

August 23, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

The Falcons will beat Oakland? Yeah, right. McFadden will have a 150 yard day against the Falcons and DHall will have his Primetime moment.

By Honest Abe

August 23, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Matt did OK.. Good poise…good accuracy…average mobility and arm strength…looks at his receivers too much (almost got his rb killed).

Coaching staff = definate improvement. They will win 5 this year.

Never liked DJ when he was at UGA. Have been very impressed with him since. He is probably the best QB they have right now AND has the best upside. They will regret letting him go within 3 years.

Some of you atlanta fans have some serious racial problems. You must really hate Black people. Its like the 19th century down here. SCARY.

By Who Needs Multi-Threat QBs

August 23, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Read a few posts indicating Matt Ryan is not a multithreat QB like Vince Young, or he who must not be named was. I think its nice to be elusive, but can distract a quarterback from their main duty when not handing off… that’s making passes. This is not college … .sooner or later the running QBs get stopped on those critical 3rd downs where they were baited to run.

By Michelle

August 23, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

The Blacks here in ATL are the biggest racists I have ever seen, particularly the sports fans. Shamefully, my daddy was in the Klan and even he did not have as much hate in his heart as many of Michael Vick’s biggest backers here do. I do not desire to take my children to Falcons games any longer due to all the unnecessary jungle-like behavior going on all around us in recent seasons. Unsafe for ANYBODY!

By Ha!

August 23, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Michelle,

Have you ever been to the jungle? How do you behave in the jungle? I bet there are a lot of mosquitos in the jungle. I don’t like mosquitos.

By NCFalconFan

August 23, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bradley,

What are your thoughts of the coaching staff?

In reading a interview with J. Anderson, he stated that his position coach did not have any NFL experience last year under Petrino. Don’t you think that could be part of his slow development? If so shouldn’t he have a learning curve?

By Recent Reader

August 23, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

For the writer who indicated “Shamefully, my Dad was in the Klan . . ” That was a good start …however Shamefully - your jungle statement indicated the Apples really don’t fall far from the tree.

By carl

August 23, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Ha! - I’m with you Buddy. I don’t like mosquitos either…. or cOOns.

I feel bad for all the wonderful black people I know who have to tolerate impressions made on others by all the rude, , obnoxious, LOUD, dumb@$$ blacks who go to Falcons games or “work” as ultra-aggressive panhandlers in Atlanta.

By Recent Reader

August 23, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Now back to football … I thought it was bad being a Pats fan last year in regards to the negative post against us from everyone due to SpyGate. I now don’t think it’s half as bad as the trash being thrown at the Falcons … by their own fans. What a strange fanbase.

By Michael

August 23, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Michelle (Michael) could it have been the slutty outfit you were wearing? x-dressing in public is not recommended in the dome.

Did you not expect people to comment about your hairy masculine legs? Come on.

trust me if those individuals were as racist as you claim you would have never made it out of that dome alive especially if they had found out that you are really a man who likes to x-dress.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

I don’t think anybody’s raving over this one game. The Falcons certainly weren’t.

I believe, NC, that this is a professional staff that will in time get satisfactory professional results. I also think there is considerable doubt, at least at the moment, that Jamaal Anderson was worth the No. 8 pick of the 2007 draft.

By Brian Stephens

August 23, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

By, “jungle like behavior,” I am guessing Michelle was referring to all the chest thumping, butt-grabbing, valuable snatching, mate attempting, drink spilling, food throwing, pushing and shoving, profanity yelling, non-football chanting, threats of violence, actual violence, female disrespecting, standing up and dancing during the ball is in play while fans behind them try to watch the actual game that went on by loafers who clearly cared more about one player or “gettin’ dem some sex” than the team.

That is pretty much as good a term as any I can think to use for it, and that is why I am now a FORMER Falcons season ticket holder. Good Riddance!

By DawgBoy

August 23, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

To all the IDIOTS!!! The fans who likes Mike Vick arent going to the games anymore...thats why this game was placed on time delay, and you couldnt see it LIVE! There is now a kinder and gentler Team with good “character”. I hope there are enough of you haterz to fill up the Dome so you can see it on TV. Thats why I keep getting messages to buy season tickets…lol…Quit hating on MV, he is gone!! Quit talking about the “other” QB…His supporters have left in droves…worry about your current Team and fill up the Dome!

By Jim

August 23, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Mark,

I thought Baker did more than just hold his own. If he can handle Vanden Bosch then he can handle just about anybody he will face. The Falcons have not had a OT like that in awhile. Your thoughts?

By JD

August 23, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

WOW!!

Why can’t people move on from the whole Michael Vick debate? Why are a lot of you SO opposed to change with this organization? Michael Vick was a great athlete and he did some good things for this Falcons franchise. But, let’s face the reality that he didn’t necessarily handle his PERSONAL life off the field very well. As a result, he’s no longer here. I understand how loyal a fan to MV7 you were, but at what point do you all just accept the fact that the Falcons (as a business) had to make a business decision and move forward; be it Matt Ryan or Glenn Dorsey (who most wanted-seems to be injured right now) the powers that be have to move forward in the best possible direction for the team.

That being said, it’s not fair to the players on this team that are coming to work hard every day in practice, that rely on your support as a fan for everyone to just dump on them when this TEAM needs its fans the most. Maybe it’s not the most ‘exciting’ brand of football, but isn’t the object of the game to win, by whatever methods necessary? So what if Ryan’s only throwing short passes - isn’t the object of the game also to keep the sticks moving? From what I saw, MR was able to sit in the pocket with poise and make the correct read. Would you rather him force a ball downfield because it’s a downfield play and possibly an interception? Then all of you would be saying, this is what the management of this team gets. This is going to be a no-win situation for the team and its fans because old fans were loyal to the player (concerned with filling the seats, live tailgate parties, whatever) as opposed to being loyal to the team (not gonna fill the seats w/ a ‘white’ qb, defense not doing well, o-line not protecting the qb). And you wonder why nationally this city is always picked on as having the worst sports fans?

The whole ‘forty acres and a mule’ mentality needs to go away from this town, because all it will do is create an excuse for people to not want to support this team. If you want to support them, don’t do it because a certain player is or isn’t on the team anymore. Support them because it’s your TEAM. It shouldn’t matter who’s on the team as long as the team as a cohesive unit is pulling together as one to get wins for this franchise. If you don’t want to support them, that’s entirely your right, too, but do it because you’re no longer a fan of the TEAM, not because certain players are no longer here. Make a choice….jump on or off…..

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

A request: Let’s not let this discussion veer off-course. Because if that happens the moderators will just shut down the commenting. And I, believe it or not, enjoy reading the (pertinent-to-football) comments. Even those that call me an idiot.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Jim, first of all, I didn’t ask you about Ryan’s personal life & what he’s funding or not funding. I know you’ve got personal biases to work out, but I’d like to keep it at football talk please.

That’s great info about his COLLEGE career, but if you know anything about NFL football you should know that it doesn’t make him a winner at the pro level. It’s amazing that you’re ready to give him credit for having the “it” factor after his 3rd pre-season game. “Not using his signing bonus money to fund an illegal dogfighting ring” doesn’t make him an upgrade at the position. Your obsession/anger with the previous QB is obviously fogging your football glasses.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Ugh!!!!! Here we go! The folks that actually accuse people of “not letting go” of the former QB are really the main ones bringing his name up. I know you guys are angry that some of us refuse to kick him while he’s down, but how about you all let it go?!

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Thank you Mark Bradley! Honestly, these discussions veer off-course on the regular. I’ve personally made several requests for the moderators to remove certain posts or even close off discussions gone ugly…to no avail.

What’s your take on the defensive line? They showed some ability to stuff the run, but I’m really concerned about the pass rush. Outside of Abraham, it’s non-existent. While I’m excited about Houston & Grimes on the corners, we can’t expect them to hold their coverage for minutes at a time. I’m just not feeling a pass-rush threat from any of our defensive ends not named John Abraham.

By DirtyBirdLegend

August 23, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Its obvious that Ryan doesnt have the arm strength to be one of the best. He’s a slighter stronger Todd Pennington. All his throws took awhile to get to their receivers…lots of receivers were waiting on his passes to show up. Its a shame…we went from a strong arm with so-so accuracy, to strong accuracy but a so-so arm.

By Recent Reader

August 23, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

I’ve seen all three games on NFL Network. Whomever ends up the starting QB … the team has to get over the penalties that put them in second/third and long situations. Even the greatest QBs have a hard time when the only option is basically to pass.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

This line was be OK against the run. I’m not sure about the pass rush, either. Not to keep harping on Jamaal Anderson — well, actually, to keep harping on Jamaal Anderson — but he’s probably the key to this defense. You can’t expect young corners to cover forever, and the surest way to protect young corners is to sack the quarterback. Abraham, provided he stays healthy, will do that. Don’t know if anyone else is capable.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, I totally agree. I’d definitely say that Anderson is the X factor. If he can be any kind of force in the pass rush, we could possibly have an above average defense. Well, that’s also hoping that Lofton will continue to show promise against the run.

By Mike

August 23, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Mark, I’m not trying to keep the fur flying, but I don’t think DJ even got a fair shot to show what he could do. Do you think the coaches just felt he wasn’t right for their system? It seems, to me, that they just wrote him off right from the start.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Recent Reader: You’re absolutely right. Penalties have been off-the-chart atrocious. They could be a function of the youth of this offensive line. Or they could be a function of trying to play so many quarterbacks. But whatever the reason, this has to get fixed if Ryan is to have a chance.

As Paul Boudreau, the offensive line coach, says: “You make your money on first-and-10,” meaning that if you get into second-and-5 as opposed to second-and-10 your offense has a much better chance. First-and-15, by that same token, is almost a worst-case scenario.

By LGD

August 23, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Five personal foul penalties on the offensive line in one game .I like it. I like.

By JD

August 23, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

It’s not that people are accused of not letting go, it’s just that whenever the Falcons are brought up, and either their perceived success or failure is a topic of discussion, it always has a way of ending up being a discussion about Michael Vick (he’s a bum, he’s this, he’s that). For once I’d like a blog on this site to focus solely on the TEAM’S performance, not what happened in the past.

I, for one, wanted to see what would happen w/ the position battles. It appears that the o-line has come together (no sacks) and the secondary looks improved; Chevis Jackson looks like a player. I think the defense for both teams in the first half was pretty good, considering they both only allowed 3 points each. Hopefully, the defensive positions will be confirmed by the start of the season.

The only one I’m disappointed in is not seeing DJ Shockley get a shot w/ the first team offense. I think he’ll get his chance w/ the first team next week, but I would have liked to see what he could do. I root for him because I think the kid has the skills and the potential to be a decent qb in this league, not because he went to UGA. Hopefully, he gets a chance to showcase his skills next week.

Overall, I’d say this was a good performance by the Falcons. I think they’ll do better than a lot of the so-called experts have predicted. I know I’d love to see them stick to a lot of people. And to say that the Falcons are the worst franchise in the NFL is just not right (even worse than the Dolphins? Give me a break…)

By Ha!

August 23, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

If moderators were going to shut down this blog it would have been done about 5 years ago.

By go matty

August 23, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

matty ice will save the day. Go matty? We love you matty.

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Here’s something that works against Shockley: If you’re starting a rookie quarterback, do you also want a young guy as your No. 3 QB? It’s one thing if your starter is a veteran and you’re grooming a young guy to take over someday, but the guy the Falcons are grooming is Matt Ryan.

I’d say it’s virtually a toss-up between Shockley and Harrington for No. 3 right now, but don’t be surprised if the Falcons go with Harrington just because he has played in the NFL and could step in if injuries warrant. That and the decision concerning Brian Finneran will be the two most difficult choices the coaches face.

By NCFalconFan

August 23, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Bradley, thanks for spending Saturday with us (I hope you’re still here). I am thinking Sam Baker will prove a lot of so-called experts wrong. On the AJCBlogs why is everyone so impressed with Shockley? When you get a chance to play in this league, you should step up and he never does. Reading ESPN, the Titans were not happy w/the Falcons “dirty play” is this something we will see a lot of from the new Falcons? I hope not

By Indifferent

August 23, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Please stop refering to Michael Vick. That dog fighting jerk is where he belongs…behind bars. It’s nice to have a decent human being leading the Falcons and not some low life scumbag and anyone who wants to continue to bring up Vick is a scumbag sycophant.

The Falcons may go 3-13 this season but they will do it with class and with a QB this city can be proud of…not that that mental midget Vick.

The Falcons are now a “rootable” team. Thanks Mr. Blank.

By Real

August 23, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

JD - Get ready to say goodbye to Shockley, he’s black.I have tried as hard as I could to keep race out of this issue, but it’s obvious that it is a motivating factor. Nobody cares that Ryan is not worth a crap, it only matters that he is white. Read between the lines, a black Joey Harrington would have been gone long ago. Ryan’s “intelligence” will not convert to wins but he’s white so it’s accepted.

By Darryn

August 23, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

As long as the coaching staff call plays to utilize Ryan’s strengths and be up front with him, instead of trying to force him to play their scheme, call plays that makes you wonder what’s going on, or make changes and not tell him before a presser and have a reporter tell him (ask Harrington), he will have a chance to be successful. I think the coach has been up front with the QBs for the most part. With an improved O-line, any of them would improve.

By Darryn

August 23, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

For those who says Harrington is crap but keep Shockley, let’s do this. Right now Joey looks solid for at least #3, but you have to say he is the most durable QB out of the bunch. Have him play extended time next game and have him play well, hopefully throw 2 TDs. Then you would have a very good chance to trade him to a team that still need a QB for maybe someone on defense or help to shore up the O-line. That way, you get rid of someone a good chunk of fans doesn’t like, keep the guy they do, and get help somewhere else on the team.

By jim

August 23, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Darryn, you sound like a moron! Who gives a rats a* what the fans think or want. Thats why the coaches get paid to make the decisions. What a moron!

By seeuatthe dome

August 23, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

The MVick situation will not go away because all the racist Vick Haters keep bringing it up. The problem is not how they feel about Vick. That is juat an excuse to vent how they feel about Blacks in general. Hey **Bradley: this racist crap is being perpetrated on Your blog. Are you gonna comment on it or hide your head in the sand. When you ignore racism its the same as condoning it.

By Falcon 4 Life

August 23, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Responding to Real: How is the “QB issue” a race issue? Why can it be a “football issue”. No one has any idea what the future holds for Ryan, including me and you. To not give him a chance and to not admit that he does have some positives when he steps on the field, is just plain ignorant.

By seeuatthe dome

August 23, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Hey , did anyone see that THUG Wiener put those knees to the guy laying on the ground. e need to get rid of him…Oops my bad…He’s White.

By jim

August 23, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

seeyouatthe dome, you belong in the moron category as well. This blog also proves that alot of blacks in this town hate whites as well and you sound like one of them. Vick is not on this team because he is in prison; plain and simple.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Indifferent, if you’ll notice…YOU just mentioned him. Let it go!!!!!! Your bitterness is sickening.

Got any feelings about the d-line, o-line, or secondary? Nevermind, you saying that you’re okay with a “classy” 3-13 season shows what’s most important to you. I’m glad that’ll make you proud. Wow…LOL…

By Ha!

August 23, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Indifferent,

Yes. The Falcons are so rootable now that all of the homegames will be blackouts and the dome will be half empty. You probably didn’t even buy a ticket. How’s that for indifferent?

By seeuatthe dome

August 23, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Duhhhh JIM Try to keep up…Everyone knows why Vick is not on the team. The question is why insecure idiots like you have to bring his name up in every blog post?

By hop

August 23, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

mark to your earlier comment about redman playing against the second team, the same could be said about the falcons team that he had was the second team as well.

redman has a better arm than ryan and we saw last week the weakness of ryan’s arm when he attempted to throw the down and out pass. it was intercepted .

the west coast offense is short passes,but the qb has to be able to throw deep to keep the coverage more balance.

ryan has not been able to do that as recent as last night when he attempted three passes into the end zone that were floaters.

falcons paid much money for a kid who has very limited arm strenth.

By stereotypical

August 23, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

According to most AJC bloggers…

criticizer of white player=supporter of vick

huh?

By brewster

August 23, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

come on now…he is a rookie. if the falcons start this rookie he will prove a disaster. after how the leadership of the falcons treated mike vick, ie…racist attitude toward a black quarterback, destroying him in turning him in with his virginia friends dog fighting exploits, not defending him while the bigots ruin the black man image,

By Champ

August 23, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

I understand this is a vent but some of you guys seem to get off on reaching for any way to offset anything positive that happens for the Falcons. If you despise them that much then find another team to rout for; if you call this being a fan. Don’t you have a bandwagon somewhere to get on? This vent is full of Terrance Moore successors. Falcons 8-8

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry. How exactly did the Falcons mistreat Michael Vick? By drafting him No. 1 overall? By signing him to a $130 million contract? By making him the focal point of the franchise?

I realize opinions can and will differ, but come on. The Falcons didn’t “turn him in.” His “friends” did that.

By Blank's Puppet

August 23, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

seeuatthedome As you can see these same racist trolls will be right here on every blog and since Mark Bradley is clearly becoming a Skip Bayless type shrill for Ryan, he will silently encourage as much racist animosity as possible with every single column from here on out.

The only way they figure to boost up Ryan is to step on Vick. I am curious why they dont see the obvious fallacy in this plan. Ryan is not a franchise QB. He just isn’t….and no amount of sugar-coating his play with cute catch-phrases like “intangibles” and “poise” will change the fact that he is just another 2nd tier QB like Pennington or Trent Green. He’s just blah. So since this is obvious, they think they need to continue to bash Vick and say ignorant stuff like “now we have real Falcons fans” or ” its better at the Dome now”. They’re too stupid to realize how idiotic it is to brag about a half-full Dome and lie about fans that USED to come to the games. They aren’t secure enough in Ryan to NOT do those things and as you can see, the AJC and Mark Bradley encourage all this because they need something, anything, to deflect from the reality that Matt Ryan is just not that good.

Notice how the Falcons have gone overboard in trying to sell this. Notice how Mark Bradley is all of a sudden so engaging in his little blogs. Hmmmm, never was that concerned before. Its all their little passive aggressive response to the reality that the Falcons are who we thought they were.

By Leon

August 23, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

How can the head coach say that the QB job is an open competition when D.J. Shockley has yet to have the opportunity to play with the 1st unit. Put Ryan in for mop up duty and lets see what his numbers are then. D.J. will be cut without even getting a chance. Shockley is an innocent victim of Falcon management trying to purge the team of anything or anyone resembling M.V.

By Former STH

August 23, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

WOW…and there you have it folks

By Mark Bradley

August 23, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry. How exactly did the Falcons mistreat Michael Vick? By drafting him No. 1 overall? By signing him to a $130 million contract? By making him the focal point of the franchise?

I realize opinions can and will differ, but come on. The Falcons didn’t “turn him in.” His “friends” did that.

its not really about Matt Ryan, as much as they would like for it to be, it SOOO isn’t. Its all about the inability to make Mike Vick disappear. LOL. Not gonna happen Mark Bradley, its just not gonna happen. Whether its the NFL or UFL, its not gonna happen, and you can talk about Matt Ryan 7 days a week. You can plaster his face on every billboard within a 50 mile radius of the Georgia Dome. You can GIVE his jersey away to every kid between the ages of 6-16 in the 25 county metro Atlanta area. You can give the season tickets away for FREE…but guess what, Ryan will never generate what you so desperately want him too….and you’ll blame “us” and write about him even more, but it won’t happen. LOL

By Recent Reader

August 23, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Blank’s Puppet . . .I don’t get your shrilling for Ryan statement. I’m reading from afar and am a fan of another team so really haven’t experienced the history of the whole M Vick and Fans thing. So from my “unbiased” perspective it seemed like M. Bradley was stating facts with the numbers … both salary and pass % related. For now …he called Ryan “competent” - not spectacular or the second coming. I guess I’m just not intuitive enough to read into some general statements by the Sports Writers as many of you Atlanta area Posters seem to be.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, since you took the bait & joined the Vick fray…after asking everyone to not “veer off,” here’s my take on your take: While the Falcons didn’t “turn him in,” they also failed miserably at supporting him through the drama. No, they didn’t mistreat him but they basically abandoned him while others mistreated him. I’m not saying it was their job to support him, but all this from an owner that claimed to care more about him as a person than a player?

Oh yeah, don’t get it twisted, Vick earned every bit of the millions they paid him.

By seeuatthe dome

August 23, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

MARK, MARK, you are slipping I assume that your 4:44 post was in response to the post by brewster…Brewster’s post was an ignorant attempt by one of your racist bloggers at SARCASM It was such a bad attempt that it went over your head. No worries mate.

By A Falcons Fan walks into a bar

August 23, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Vick is gone, but the bottom line is that the Falcons suck again, and the city isn’t going to buy into this Ryan hype. The Dome is empty enough to echo…echo…echo…echo

By Recent Reader

August 23, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

For the Open Opportunity conversation. Is it remotely possible that the coaches, who have seen all these quarterbacks on numerous tapes (I strongly assume), in numerous practices, and team meetings, just may have a very good idea already who the has the best chance of being the most productive QB …and also who may not be more than a nice backup?? I never knew Pro Football was a democacracy. The only publicly owned team is the Packers … and even they could not get their beloved Favre back this year. I would hope you don’t want your Team’s coaches wasting their time JUST to pacify a good amount of the public.

By jrmdvm1

August 23, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

As a UGA fan and alum ( and also a Falcons fan ), I would love for DJ to succeed. Unfortunately, I think that DJ will be on the practice squad, just because he is still able to be placed there, unlike either of the other possible “backups”. I would hope that DJ would get a chance with another team if that is what he wants. If he wants to stay in this area, then he will “accept” the practice squad assignment. I will be very surprised if they make him #3.

By JHD

August 23, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

It’s really disgusting that people can’t refrain from bringing race into the Falcons QB situation. The fact is, Vick supporters, VICK BLEW IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AND IT’S NOT MATT RYAN’S FAULT !!!!!!!!!!!!! ALL RYAN IS TRYING TO DO IS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A TREMENDOUS OPPORTUNITY THAT HAS PRESENTED ITSELF TO HIM which is exactly what Vick did NOT do!!!!!!!!!!!!! Vick supporters, you are letting your personal prejudices against whites cloud your objectivity. That’s why there’s so much clamoring for DJ and hatred for Harrington. Let’s remember what MLK SAID ABOUT JUDGING PEOPLE BY THE CONTENT OF THEIR CHARACTER AND NOT THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By stereotypical

August 23, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

JHD, are you saying that anyone who prefers DJ over Harrington is “JUDGING PEOPLE BY THE CONTENT OF THEIR CHARACTER AND NOT THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN”? What about the people that prefer Harrington over DJ? Does your standard apply to them also? Probably not. I guess you buy into the formula of: criticizer of white player=supporter of vick. If you yourself were truly “objective” you’d allow for a person to criticize one of the white quarterbacks without assuming they’re a “Vick supporter.”

By the way, you seem pretty angry. You okay? Vick getting under your skin all the way from prison. Don’t worry, he’s locked up. He won’t be signing autographs for your kids for another year.

By bigeasy830

August 23, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

By welikebaseball2, great post man. You expressed many peoples belief perfectly. When Ray Lewis went through his ordeal in the double murder case here in Atlanta. Art Mowdell and the entire city of Baltimore supported him. Arthur Blank threw MV7 under the bus in that press conference after the fans had bought their season tickets. That is what frustrates so many fans. Ray was backed by his city in the death of two men. Kobe was supported by his team and his city during a rape trial. Vick was thrown to the wolves (PETA) over dogs. Many here in Atlanta supported Heatley after he was DUI in the accident that lead to his friends death. And, like you also said MV7 earned every penny of the money he made in the NFL. All the millions he generated for the Falcons and the NFL. Many good old country boys from deep south GA don’t agree with throwing the man in jail that long over dogs, so race is not as big an issue as people make it out to be. Its just some of these wanna be internet tough guys and woman just want attention and write a lot of mess that they would be cowardly to say to someone’s face.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

bigeasy830, well-said!

By JHD

August 23, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Stereotypical, you know as well as I do that SINCE LAST YEAR most of black Atlanta has been interjecting race into this and yes a number of white posters have taken the bait by responding with their own racial rhetoric like Sharon Falcon. Since last April’s draft Ryan has been criticized heavily w/o being given a chance to see what he can do. Honestly, he looked better than Young did last night and Young is entering his 3rd year. DJ is more mobile but he hasn’t played as well as the other QBs. That’s what I meant by people not being objective. I know this is the ATL and people developed an emotional attachment to Vick but that doesn’t change the fact that he HAS NO ONE TO BLAME BUT HIMSELF FOR HIS NOT BEING HERE NOW!!!!!!!! Big easy830,Blank decided it was time to cut ties AFTER it was apparent Vick lied to him and Goodell. Ray Lewis never lied and he was vindicated. Vick eventually pleaded guilty when his lawyers realized they couldn’t overcome the evidence the Feds had against him.

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

JHD, it’s mighty ignorant of you to conclude that “most of black Atlanta has been interjecting race into this.” The only thing “most of black Atlanta” has done is refuse to throw more dirt on Vick. If you’ll notice, on these blogs, “white posters” (however you determine that) are more than often the ones that throw in Vick’s name when anybody has anything to say about one of the white quarterbacks. Why can’t people simply have a problem with the Falcons spending their top pick on a QB with questionable arm strength and, now questionable, accuracy (notice Ryan’s consistently high throws?)? Why does that automatically make them race issue baiters? Seriously, look through this very blog & count the number of times “black posters/Vick lovers” (since you want to clump people) mentioned race versus the number of times “white posters/Vick haters” (that work for you too?) have mentioned race. Why does a person saying how they wish Vick was behind center or simply wishing that Ryan WEREN’T behind center have to be accused of “interjecting race into this?”

By Recent Reader

August 23, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Some interesting points and counterpoints on the previous QB. Always found him fun to watch . . but after researching the overall individual stats and then the team record … .well other than one 11-5 year … I’m suprisingly underwhelmed by the Wins/Losses which is Team related - but QB may be the most important cog in the machine - and then even more unimpressed and suprised by the individual stats. I realy don’t think any of the previous QB fans should be complaining about Interceptions, and the QB Rating … .wow - very, very mediocre. Again, I liked watching the guy - just as far as the numbers are concerned, except for the rushing yards (isn’t that what RBs are for) not too much of a high bar was set.

By Third and a Mile

August 23, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Recent Reader, if all you do is look at stats you might as well stick to fantasy football. If you dont watch the games you can only judge the TEAM win and loss record and not individual performance because you didn’t watch the game to do so….duh!

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Recent Reader, how about the bar set for winning percentage & pro bowl appearances?

By JHD

August 23, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

welikebaseball2, I’m simply stating the obvious. I wish people wouldn’t inject race but BOTH blacks and whites do. And truthfully black posters usually initiate it and white posters respond with an EQUAL amount of venom. BOTH SIDES RUIN IT FOR THOSE OF US WHO WANT TO EVALUATE PEOPLE ON MERIT AND ABILITY AND NOT ETHNICITY!!!!!!!!

By welikebaseball2

August 23, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

“Black posters usually initiate it”? Well, I guess we’re reading different blogs. You’re entitled to your obviously biased point of view, but read this very blog’s 11:29pm & 11:36pm posts & then tell me which posts by “black posters” those references were in response to. Case rested. I’ve got better things to debate about. A person that refuses to accept responsibility for their own actions will always call them reactions.

By Real

August 24, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this

Let’s be real here - From day one whites never wanted the other qb to be here. They were referring to him as a burnt monkey, a flash in the pan, and other adjectives. When the firedanreeves web site was up, there was a discussion about coaching candidates and when Lovie Smith’s name came up some blogger wrote “the only reason we would need more blacks on the sidelines is to clean up after the games”. This is the prevailing thought process of most white Falcon fans, whether they admit to it or not. This type of slave era mentality is what’s really stoking the fires of this controversy. Blacks realize that the other qb broght his own self down and that he deserves jail time for what he did. On the other hand, they are not going to stand idly by while these slave era racists rejoice over his downfall. Matt Ryan is not your answer, then again maybe so because he is white. You people don’t care about wins and losses nor the team, you just want a white boy to be the face of this franchise. In a nut shell, THIS is what aggravates the blacks.

By Recent Reader

August 24, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

WeLikeBaseball2 …point taken. Again, not from GA nor are Falcs my favorite team - but have liked and followed them since late 70s. I saw MV in person when he played at VA Tech a couple of times - and definitely rooted for him at Atl. Again - I never went thru whatever happened in Atl when he played in regards to fans opinions. I was just really suprised when I saw the 75 (or so) avg QB rating for his years there - and I also wrongfully thought the team had more wins during his tenure.

By Recent Reader

August 24, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Third and Mile … I don’t live by numbers and understand there are other miscellaneous factors that can be put in print. Again …liked and rooted for MV … but at some point numbers don’t line . . and maybe we fans of his might have been a little blinded by the light of his exciting/spectacular moments. Also - I said I was suprised by the numbers which back up many of the “detractors’” statements. I also keep hearing a lot of complaints about Ryan throwing interceptions … . especially after seeing how many had been thrown in comparison to TDs by MV.

By Recent Reader

August 24, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Addendum: The posts definitely have me thinking - normally a good thing:) I will make my gastronomical comparison between Tom Brady (am a Pats fan first) and MV (Falcs are my second favorit team). First, MV was much more fun and exciting to watch then Tom Brady play by play. Thoroughly enjoyable wondering what MV was going to pull out next. Culinary wise - MV was like going to a tasting of the most spectacular foods. A bite here, a bite there . . most of them delicious, every now and then one that . . well not so tasty. Brady would be going to your favorite basic, home style restaurant. A good, solid (sometimes great) meal where you knew what you were getting everytime and left satisfied until the next meal. With the tasting you had some nice bites - but then felt like you had to go out and get another meal. In other words, after some MV Sunday’s you left unsated and needed more immediately. With most of Brady’s you didn’t need anything more until the next Sunday/Monday . .. or Thursday nite depending on schedule:) I am not being maliciously critical. Big fan of both …all I ask is a fair assessment of this “silly” comparison! Stay positive folks!!!

By Mike

August 24, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Mark- I don’t think you’re a racist, Vick-hating, MattRyan cheerleader. I don’t quite understand why you seem to draw so many negative comments. I think you call it, and write it, like you see it…And since race seems very important to everyone here… I’m a white, Vick supporter, Harrington hater, that wants Shockley to get a chance (at least as a backup), and I’m not judging Ryan yet.

By bigeasy830

August 24, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

The Falcons named Matt Ryan the starter for the season opener. We all knew that was going to be the case when they gave him 72 million with over 30 million guaranteed. I wish the young and talented QB luck. I am a Falcons fan. Have been long before MV7 and will be long after he is finally dropped from the roster. JHD I agree with you, MV7 did do it to himself. I did not dispute anyones assertion to that point. But Ray Lewis did get a years probation for obstruction in that double murder case. He was the only defendant with an unfavorable disposition. The two that were actually thought to have done the stabbing were found not guilty. That obstruction charge indicated that Ray Lewis did lie that he did not know what happened and that he did not know who stabbed those two men. I know this for fact (don’t ask me how, If I told you I would have to kill you, hahaha).When a man is faced with prison time no one besides his attorneys should ask him if he did it. They could then be called as witnesses. But, thats old news. I love Coach Smith. I believe he will do a great job with this team. And the GM, I was very critical of him at first but, I think his draft picks will do fine. In a couple of years after the Falcons start winning games we will then finally be able to move on from the Nightmare of last season. True Falcons fans will ride or die for their team no matter what. As a Fan we are never satisfied unless at the end of the season we have won the Super Bowl and hope fully one day soon with Matt Ryan as QB we can be truly satisfied with our season.

By BCS Slave

August 24, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

I don’t think anyone is annointing Ryan after one preseason start. Ryan’s performance in preseason, when taken by itself, doesn’t matter much. However, his stats were pretty good in college too. He was a 60% passer over his career at BC. 2007 was not his best year or the team’s best year. He threw 19 pics in 2007, but he was sacked 21 times that year. Still, he threw for 4500 yds and 31 TD passes and had a qb rating of 127.

Ryan is a work in progress. He might become the next Tom Brady or be the next Joey Harrington. We won’t know until the guy has a few years to grow and mature. I agree, we shouldn’t put him in the hall of fame just yet…but let’s not call him a bust either. I think it’s ok to be excited over his promise. I’d rather hope for the best than wallow in all this negative crap.

As for our former QB…the reason people won’t name him is we are tired of the race baiting and the bitterness over his departure. He was fun to watch and he’d still be here had it not been for the crimianl acts he committed. I was sorry to lose him…sorry for what happened to him…and sorry for what happened to the team. We just went through the season from hell in no small part because of his actions. I for one don’t want to spend the season talking about the past. This is going to be the last time I refer to him. His talent is different from Ryan’s, and there is no need to compare the two.

Mike, good luck to you. Matt, best of luck as the starter this year!

By tj

August 25, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Cut Shockley and I will become a BUCS fan!!!!