Mark Bradley

By sean

August 31, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

i think ryan will have some growning up to do why not now..i will enjoy this season more than last

By lawton

August 31, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

last year: empty seats

remedy: draft another marquee quarterback

point being made: this was a dumb column you wrote bradley.

By Myrtle Beach

August 31, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

I’ve said the kid will get killed based on the talent on the line. Weiner is the key and it would be nice if Clabo could play center because McClure can not block without a double team. We have not seen any 7 set drops from the Kid and teams are going to stack the line, take away the short throws then give them the long ball.

He’s going to get killed, the line looks better but not that much better. I hope i’m wrong.

By Barkin'Dog

August 31, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

The Falcons did more than choose the right QB, they chose the right starter and backup QBs. Holding Finneran will pay dividends this season as well. Call me a homer, but I think they win their opener. Not because of Ryan - it’s the swarm-to-the-ball defense that will make the difference against the wide open Lions. With Ryan playing the entire game, I see him pulling out a win in the closing seconds (like he’s done so many times in college)… 21-20.

By SanAntonio Falcon

August 31, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

I always thought if you drafted a guy at that high of a caliber; he should be able to play by the 1st game of the regular season. The best way to learn is to learn on the job. Ryan won me over on an Atlanta evening last year while playing the Jackets. You know who was the main reason I got DirectTV, and Ryan is the reason that I still have DirectTV.

By eddiedawg

August 31, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

I am sure the Vick sycophants will be out soon, telling us we all got our wish of a blue-eyed lilly white qb……all you MV7 morons stay outta the dome and let the real FALCON fans in to cheer for our TEAM……Ryan is a stud, and the line is much improved, and we have 3 solid rbs……if the defense can step up, I predict 8 wins…..

GO FALCONS!

By leftcoastfan

August 31, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Falcons only play three playoff teams from last year, two with TB, and one on the road in SD. The Bears suck at offense with no QB whatsoever, but their aging D keeps them in the game. I hate to say it, but the Falcons will surprise people this year. carolina will fire john fox, finish 7-9, TB will go 8-8, the saints finish 9-7, and to think this division is tough. falcons go 8-8, just miss the playoffs.

oh yeah, our new GM will draft a line for MAtty ICE, look what he did in NE!

By dave

August 31, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Agreed, Mark. Not all rookie QBs are ready to start right away, but I think Ryan is. A “sense of purpose” goes a long way on the gridiron.

dave

By toshie

August 31, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

Good article Mark. We will a lot of guys on the field that will have some learning curves. But let them learn on the field standing on the side line is not going to teach anyone anything. The sooner they get the experience the better. Lawton get off the blog. It’s real clear you are not a Falcon fan. All you want to do is complain. Your comments are not needed. We may have a rough year, but we don’t people like you making it worse.

By spotts

August 31, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

What’s the harm in making Ryan wait a few weeks/months to start? It’s not like we’re planning on going to the Super Bowl this year. Don’t rush him and let him mature.

By mike

August 31, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Geeze, eddiedawg, can’t we have one decent blog where someone isn’t race baiting- it’s always either the Vick supporters talking trash, or the “get the trash out of the dome” trash talkers. I’m tired of all the racist inclinations; besides, if you people- black and white- are gonna keep talking about it, why not just come out and say it? Perhaps each posting should start with “I’m (black or white) and this is what I think”. If we’re all gonna be a little bit racist, let’s do it right!

By bookie

August 31, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

eddiedawg, If us Vick supporters stayed away from the dome, the dome will be half empty like it was before we had Mike Vick. Thats going to cost Blank money and that means less money to keep and get free agents. So if its about the “team” like you say, you better hope and prey that we show up in the dome.

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

That last pre-season game, the best QB on the field was Joe Flacco. If the Falcons would have drafted a D-lineman, many thought Ryan would have been drafted by the Ravens and we could have gotten Flacco in the second round. I wish Ryan luck but, his arm strength is questionable. He cannot throw the deep put. That will limit our offense because the opposing defenses will stuff the middle of the field and dare us to throw it outside. Flacco looked awesome. Everyone knew he had the big arm but he also showed very good touch. All anyone talks about with Ryan is intangibles, but what about skills, arm strength, mobility, etc. He is not the best QB on the team Chris Redman because of experience is and in my opinion DJ is the most talented. And its ironic that a MV7 hater is the first to bring up MV7 in this blog because he knows that MV7 is still the best QB on the roster. Also do you smart, know it all bloggers actually believe that the new GM did the drafting in NE. Belichick built that team. The new GM was just there going along for the ride. Get real. I think all of you delusional fans are in for a rude awakening that first game against Detroit. I am a real Falcon fan. And a real fan realizes the true state that his team is in and demand that they do the right things to get better. Start Redman we win 6-8 games Start Ryan we go 2-14. Play-play time known as the preseason is over. Now it’s time for some real NFL football.

Holla….

By Rod

August 31, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

“I’ll do whatever the team wants — hold a clipboard, wear a ballcap, whatever.” Here’s what Ryan did say: “I think everyone should be disappointed if he doesn’t start.” Wow thats earth shattering there. Please, they tried everthing they could to give Joey the job DJ took and if they truely let DJ compete he would be the starter. Shockley will have a better NFL career than Ryan and in 3 years your going to look back and reflect on it.

By Rod

August 31, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Bigeasy830, Joe Flacco was not the best QB on the field in the last preseason game. DJ Shockley was the best QB on the field.

By lolo

August 31, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

DJ s/b startin.give him a fair shot to win the job.

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

By Rod, I am an UGA fan and love DJ, but as long as he is a Falcon he will never get a real shot to be the starting QB. Joe Flacco has an arm that is special, in a few years barring injury, Joe Flacco will be a super star in the NFL and DJ will still be hanging on trying to stay on the Falcons roster. They talk about intangibles with Tom Brady but, his coaches say that his arm is just as strong as Bledsoe’s and you know that Drew Bledsoe had the big boy arm. That is why Brady is so special he can truly make all the throws and he has the intangibles.

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

DEAR SANTA:

I have been a good boy this year and I only have one request on my shopping list. Can I please make the playoffs? It’s been so long. Can you please send a hero?

FROM THE DESK OF SANTA:

Dear Unbiased, you had been granted the greatest athlete that God has ever created but you rejected my gift. Eventhough he went to Lambough Field and beat the legendary Brett Favre in his back yard at a time when he had NEVER lost in the playoffs at Lambough Field and this was a quarterback in his first full season as a starter and finished in the top 5-finalist for the LEAGE MVP.

He later went on to lead this team to the Championship game, with an undersized (180) running back, who previously never managed to rush for more than 700 yards in a season, yet had 3-consecutive 1,000 seasons. Not only did he have an undersized running back, he also had no wide receivers, no offensive line and an overrated defense.

Because your city has rejected my gift, you will be forever jinxed and have returned to mediocre results and will continue to do so. No matter how many “great white hopes” or “face of the franchises” that you come up with, you will not break the curse.

M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S !!!!

By Mark Bradley

August 31, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

I think the biggest question the Falcons faced about Ryan — once they’d drafted him and decided he was as good as they’d believed — was whether the line could protect him. It’s safe to say they’ve been encouraged on that front, too.

By TheJama

August 31, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

I tired of all the talk, I’m ready to see this newly built Falcons team start the regular season. Then all of the questions will be answered about Ryan, the offensive line, and our defense. I think the OL is going to surprise many people from outside the organization who didn’t watch their preseason games with as much scrutiny as a real Falcons fan did!! Can’t wait to see the ground and pound running attack with Turner Burner.

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

LISTEN UP - Before all you naive (being nice) anti-Vick “arm chair analysts” start making your predictions based on an angel landing on your door steps, below are the predictions from the NFL NETWORK, where they actually get P A I D to make analysts have to say about the 2008 Falcons and before you throw in the 1998 Falcons, they had Jamal Anderson, 3-4 solid receivers, an outstand defensive and offensive line, 2-shut down corners and a veteran and solid safety corps, which this team has none mentioned:

2008 forecast Vic Carucci: Rookie Matt Ryan is in for a long season of growing pains. Michael Turner’s running will help, but first-year coach Mike Smith has his hands full as an enormous rebuilding process begins. Prediction: 3-13

Thomas George: Wait ‘till next year … or the year after … or the year after … Prediction: 3-13

Pat Kirwan: This is a rebuilding project and will take time. The quarterback is a rookie and the team didn’t inject enough talent into its 29th-ranked defense. The Falcons repeat their 2008 record. Prediction: 3-13

Gil Brandt: After a disastrous 2007 season, the team made some very good additions via draft and free agency. But it’s hard to begin such a major team overhaul without some growing pains. Prediction: 3-13

» Falcons’ 2008 schedule

Enjoy your 0-16 season, but you can enjoy an educationally well spoken post interview.

By Brian

August 31, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Dear Santa,

You must have missed the part where the person you described became A CONVICTED FELON. It’s a shame you and so many other idiots think that’s an after thought.

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

Even the veterans on this team know that it will be a long rebuilding process with the youth movement. Lawyer Malloy basically stated that in an interview. This is a man that has been on winning teams. They are being realistic and some just want those last couple of years of pay checks. But, who could blame them. But for some reason some of you fans are just DELUSIONAL.

By Ken Strickland

August 31, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

Remember the “Grits Blitz” we once had.We need to teleport that defense from the Leeman bennett years.Buddy Curry is only 50 so maybe he can come back.If you have ever read my post,you know I know everything and the rest of you,including the sportswriters,know nothing.LISTEN TO ME,ALL OF YOU,BRING THE GRITS BLITZ BACK

By The Grinch

August 31, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Mark, you should talk to Terrance about that offensive line (for the record I agree with you). I just read his latest piece and not only does he think it’s cover-your-eyes terrible, he doesn’t even have the depth chart right (he thinks Clabo is going to be the starting RG). I’d like to thank you for at least watching the preseason games unlike some of your colleagues.

By falcondawg

August 31, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

I truly believe the Falcons will be better than expected. They seem to play with a purpose, especially on defense. I agree with Jama, let’s get it on!!

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Ken Strickland lay off the corn liquor. Some call it gut rot but it also kills many brain cells. HAHAHAHA. I love your post man.

By DACULAfalcon

August 31, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

call me crazy….but I had a dream that we would win the season opener, and it felt very real…not to mention the fact that ryan is a smart guy with great intangibles!

By fact checker

August 31, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

its milloy not malloy,bigeasy.know your Falcons DA

By TheJama

August 31, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Grinch, Check the falcons team website. It clearly states that Clabo is the starting right tackle on the depth chart…not that I am standing up for Terrence the Falcon hater one bit. Peace

By will the real falcons please stand?

August 31, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

dear unbiased blogger, it is obvious that you’re high on something because you have logged into te wrong web site. This is supposed to be only for FALCONS FANS, not whining pansies who dropped out of high school. And the next time you just want to complain, try to spell correctly…LAMBEAU NOT LAMBOUGH. You’re just making yourself look like the idiot that you are.

GO FALCONS!

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

So what is the best prospect for 2009? Calvin Johnson is going to have a M O N S T E R Game in the Dome. Welcome home Calvin, courtesy of that Falcon hospitality.

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

By will the real falcons please stand?

August 31, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

dear unbiased blogger, it is obvious that you’re high on something because you have logged into te wrong web site. This is supposed to be only for FALCONS FANS, not whining pansies who dropped out of high school. And the next time you just want to complain, try to spell correctly…LAMBEAU NOT LAMBOUGH. You’re just making yourself look like the idiot that you are.

——A sentence begins with a “capital” letter, which you could find in any 3rd grade classroom. When it comes to educational standards I’m sure you would be found somewhere between special education and trailer parks. Go Panthers (former Falcons Fan).

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

2008 forecast Vic Carucci: Rookie Matt Ryan is in for a long season of growing pains. Michael Turner’s running will help, but first-year coach Mike Smith has his hands full as an enormous rebuilding process begins. Prediction: 3-13

Thomas George: Wait ‘till next year … or the year after … or the year after … Prediction: 3-13

Pat Kirwan: This is a rebuilding project and will take time. The quarterback is a rookie and the team didn’t inject enough talent into its 29th-ranked defense. The Falcons repeat their 2008 record. Prediction: 3-13

Gil Brandt: After a disastrous 2007 season, the team made some very good additions via draft and free agency. But it’s hard to begin such a major team overhaul without some growing pains. Prediction: 3-13

» Falcons’ 2008 schedule

By Ken Strickland

August 31, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

J Anderson should be gone NOW

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Oh now here come all the smarty pants english teachers and grammar police. When they cannot dispute a fact or make a good argument related to football, the Falcons or even sports in general they pull out the I am a smarty pants card. Its played more often than the race card on these blogs. News Flash, you do not have to be a graduate of UGA or GT to be a fan of those teams. Many uneducated people are almost like sports historians when it comes down to their team or just sports in general. So before you call someone an idiot, make sure you can prove your point in relation to the subject. And I mean give a good argument backed by facts and not just your opinion. Just because you can spell or graduated from some fine university does not make you a know it all.

By Mark Bradley

August 31, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

The Falcons’ decision to start Ryan is an indication that they don’t believe he requires much time at all to mature. They think he’s pretty mature already. And I’d have to agree. Say what you will about him, but I don’t think anybody could deny that he’s a purposeful young man.

By RA

August 31, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

Wow Bradley,

That, wasn’t, terrible. In fact it may have been the journalistic equivalent to an opposable thumb. Now, say something not terrible about our Hawks!

By eddiedawg

August 31, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

To all you idiots above….I was a Vick fan until he spit in my face and the team’s face by LYING to everyone…..he is gone, and will NEVER return to the Dome……my point above (which was missed by many because Vick is black and Ryan is white, and btw, I don’t care what color the qb is, just win…) is that the IDIOTS who only supported this team BECAUSE of Vick get out of the Dome….I have been a FALCONS fan for longer than Vick was on the team and will continue to support the TEAM…..Vick fans can take a hike unless you continue to support the team….ITS A TEAM GAME YOU VICK MORONS….

By brewster

August 31, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

there is no such thing as lily white, its pale face. white people are inheritly racist. they dont hate black people for being black, they hate because they are not. this is from a white man. we are envious racist. everybody know dj shockley should be the starting quarterback but blank and the rest of the bigots are practicing their nature. michael vick did not start as a rooky and ryan is not a michael vick at all. black people see the racism and for the most part will never support the falcons again until they redeem themselves. the black falcons players will never play their best for arthur. look at all the black elite players who have left since the bringing down of michael vick by arthur blank. black fans won’t even watch the falcons on tv. do the right thing falcon owner…put shockley as your fanchise and redeem yourselves. shockley will get the position anyway when black players around the league take out ryan’s made career. i laugh at you arthur blank you disgusting slave owner.

By brewster

August 31, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

there is no such thing as lily white, its pale face. white people are inheritly racist. they dont hate black people for being black, they hate because they are not. this is from a white man. we are envious racist. everybody know dj shockley should be the starting quarterback but blank and the rest of the bigots are practicing their nature. michael vick did not start as a rooky and ryan is not a michael vick at all. black people see the racism and for the most part will never support the falcons again until they redeem themselves. the black falcons players will never play their best for arthur. look at all the black elite players who have left since the bringing down of michael vick by arthur blank. black fans won’t even watch the falcons on tv. do the right thing falcon owner…put shockley as your fanchise and redeem yourselves. shockley will get the position anyway when black players around the league take out ryan’s made career. i laugh at you arthur blank you disgusting slave owner.

By Famuan

August 31, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

LMAO, the Falcons decision to start Ryan is an indication that they know Ryan has to start earning his keep right NOW* LOL, its not like he’s earning any money for the franchise sitting on the bench via jersey sales or other Falcons merchandise bearing his image. He has to go earn that paycheck NOW. Let’s all sit back and watch the latest season of “When Defensive Ends Attack”. Julius Pepper is back and headed to the probowl thanks to the Falcons!

By eddiedawg

August 31, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Hey brewster…what is a rooky? And when you post you racist moron, just click the post button one time, and that way we don’t have to see your racist rants two times…..and you are one of the idiots we do not need in the Dome anyways……

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

By Brian, I said it when the MV7 thing happened and Coack Mike Smith said it during a sideline interview. “Football is a gladiator sport”. What does serving time have to do with a mans ability to play football.

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

BREWSTER - All I can say is WOW! Hope you don’t live near a Klan rally :)

By Gerry

August 31, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Why was Darren Stone cut and not even signed to the practice squad?

By Football Analyst

August 31, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

FALCONS: Starting Matt Ryan - GOOD Decision

MIKE VICK: Raping & Killing Dogs While Gambling on Dog Fights - BAD Decision

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Damn Brewster, I don’t know what color you are and it really don’t matter. That was the most disturbing post on a blog I have ever read. I love DJ. But, he is a 7th round pick with a history of knee injuries. I think Matt Ryan will eventually be a good QB. But, first we must get better as a team and he must strengthen his arm. There will be no Tom Brady like story for DJ. Just like there will be no MV7 coming back to the Falcons. Let it go. Matt Ryan is our QB. Agree with it or not, it is what it is. I think the team will win only 2 games with him as our QB this year. I think that he was handed the job as soon as he was drafted. I to am tired of being lied to by the management of the Falcons. I am tired of the Atlanta media treating us as if we are stupid by writing all those happy go lucky, pansy stories about preseason games, training camp or OTAs. Bull that was shoveled to them by the spin doctors and then they shoveled it to us. Lets wait until the season start and see what’s really going on. But man your spin on this with the race thing scarred me. Thank goodness for the young people in this country that socialize together everyday and are black, white and brown. I do not know how old you are but, this is a different day and time from the old days. Most young people are not like those that were involved in the Jenna 6 incident. We can learn a lot from the youth of today.

By Pete

August 31, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

There are still the imbeciles who will NEVER admit that Matt Ryan is the real deal, head and shoulders above not only any other rookie QB in this year’s draft, but also most seasoned QB’s now in the league. They will be eternally blind, deaf, and dunb, NEVER admitting THEY could possibly be wrong. Pathetic.

By Chris

August 31, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

I actually believe Shockley is their best QB at this moment in time.

By athensfalconfan

August 31, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

Brewster, you’re about as white as MV. You’re trying to pull a con on people just like your hero MV did. Get a life.

By HANK

August 31, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Ryan will have to get acclimated to the pro game this year. But next year, the expectations will be high and because of his record rookie contract, it’s playoffs or bust.

By Ken Strickland

August 31, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

MV7 will be coming back to the dome to play football.Granted,it will be another team playing for the SB championship.I say we need to shore up the D and create another”Grits Blitz”

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

BIG EASY - Why do you people think MV7 wants to come back to this racist town? No he is coming back to Carolina and he will have one goal - to destroy this team on National television, so put all those thoughts to rest that he even wants to come and play for this pathetic racist town.

Don’t even think about chastizing “BREWSTER” - He is only stating the obvious and he stated he is not African American yet somehow you even doubt his honesty in stating that.

You guys wanted a “face for the franchise” and you got just that. Vick is too good to play for this sorry team. Get over it! I can’t wait to see it. Go PANTHERS!!!!!

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

MATT RYAN - Will end up with a concussion when all those blitz oriented teams see the fear in his eyes. He can’t scramble so he is either going to throw the ball up for grabs or take major hits. Either way the only reason the Falcons will only lose 16-games is because the league has not gone to 17-games yet.

By hop

August 31, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

when you pay a player as much as the falcons paid ryan you must play him.

he did not earn the job ,but he did barely enough to warrant his starting.

it is clear that he is smart, reads defenses, good leader,but he has limitations such as not having a strong arm,not a good athlete and not mobile.

it will be interesting to see if he can make it.

the jury is still out!

By Dave

August 31, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Why can’t we read anything about the Falcons without Vick being mentioned? His case of squandered talent and financial security is extremely sad. I wish him the best at redeeming himself (as he said he would), but the Falcons have to move on.

By Dion

August 31, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Listen, I am a die hard Falcons and Bulldogs fan. I wanted a defensive player and possibly draft Henne or Brohm in the 2nd round. Ryan has got my attention, I saw him live in the Jax/Atl game. This kid looks like the real deal. P.Manning had 29 int’s in his 1st season, give this guy a chance and he will prove he has the intangibles. Now to the ones who think DJ will be a starter in 2-3 yrs. That aint gonna happen. He could not do much against the third string defenses, 1st would tear him up. I love DJ, but come on guys, seriously, we got the best QB in the draft, it is going to be a rough year, but New England and Indy used to be sorry year in year out. We will look good in a few years, talent is all around, no more ME players!! Falcons 7-9!!

By lolo

August 31, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

DJ wasnt given a chance to start.I say start him against the Lions and see what he can do.Everybody is already writing us off this year anyway,so whats the hurt?

By cindy

August 31, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

did michael vick rape the girl dogs or the boy dogs?

By MV7

August 31, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Please don’t talk about Michael Vick anymore because it’s pointless at this time

By Mark Bradley

August 31, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Your attention, please: I’m going to talk about Michael Vick. And here’s what I’m going to say:

If he were here, he’d still be the starting quarterback and Bobby Petrino would still be the head coach and Matt Ryan would be based in some other city and Mike Smith would still be working in Jacksonville. But Vick isn’t here, and that changed everything. And with that, we (and the Falcons) move on.

By MV-Carolina in 10

August 31, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

Then just move on then Bradley.Nobody was talkin to you

By RA

August 31, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

And the world weeps.

By bigeasy830

August 31, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

By Unbiasedblogger, MV7 would be happy to play for any team when he gets out of prison. He needs the money. He spent all of his on Chap Stick to hide those sores. hahahaha. Who says Carolina wants him. Evidently you are a Panther fan good for you. That explains your infatuation with the player and not the Falcons as a team. I talk a lot of trash on these blogs, but I am a Falcons fan. As I stated before. I believe that Matt Ryan will be a good NFL QB, but not this year. I believe that the Falcons will win 4 games or less, probably 2-14. I love DJ but there will be no Tom Brady like happy ending for the young man as long as he is a Falcon he will never start a game in the NFL. And I understand why you want MV7 to go to Carolina UnbiasedBlogger, Your QB sucks. He still have not recovered from that shoulder or elbow injury from a couple of years back. Peppers have not been worth a dime since he got of those steroids, I don’t want to hear anything about it was a supplement, Bull it was steroids, from what I am hearing about his play it sounds he is on the roids again, he may be taking the same thing the Jamaican track team has been taking, probably some new undetectable stuff. Yeah I said it, those Jamaicans had be on the juice or clear or something. The falcons are gonna break Stewarts toe again when we play them. Steve Smith is on roids, that is why he is always roid raging and b*** slapping his own teammates. Carolina will go 6 and 10. You Carolina fans are more delusional than most Falcons fans on this blog. You people think you are going to the Super Bowl every year since you got lucky and went a few years back. Realize the truth Unbiased_blogger your team sucks. We are going through a youth movement. Now what is the Carolina Panthers excuse.

By MV7

August 31, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Attention to you! What’s your point? Vick ain’t here or Bobby Petrino. Mike Smith is so stop talking about the past and talk about the present. Can we just move on and not talk about Vick anymore because it’s still pointless!

By 28 year Falcon Fan

August 31, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

I always look to the start of Falcons football with guarded optimism, having been disappointed in roughly 25 of the 28 years I have been a fan. Nice to see Mark on board, even if it is only until after the first week. Ryan can play, lets hope his line gives him a chance to do so. Time for the other Jamal to earn his paycheck. Lots of questions on both sides of the ball. That said….Falcons go 5-11, losing 4 of 11 by less than 3 points……As I said….Guarded optimism.

By Unbiased_Blogger

August 31, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this

SHARON is not getting any apparently :)

For all you dreamers - if you choke in the “lowly” ACC Championship game, what are your chances in the NFL? Get a grip - your boy is a bust and would be holding the clip board if Vick was here :)

By Michael

September 1, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

At $12 million he had better be ready. And I’m sure MV7 is thinking more about surviving right now then who he’s gonna play with in the NFL. Spitzer’s fall rivals Vick’s but at least Spitzer has his freedom (and all his money).

By DJ

September 1, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

I wish Matt the best but I still question how this team is being built. I thought we needed to go defensive & Offensive lines first. We are rebuilding…then fully committ to rebuilding. I think on the right team Matt Ryan can be a star, with us he is a beauty queen. He looks good, he interviewa great and he has poise but I don’t think he will ever amount to being a great QB. I personally think Andre Woodson who the NY Giants just cut is a better QB.

By kreese31

September 1, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

The decision to start Matt Ryan is the right one for this reason $74 million bucks, if he is going to be the future, he needs to get started. Is he the best QB on the roster, NO!!! DJ Shockley is!! chris redman can’t hold DJ’s drawers. But the Falcons invested $74 million in this kid and they want to know wha tthey got. I hte to tell them, but they will be HIGHLY disappointed. Who gives a damnhow well Matt Ryan an answer an interviewers question. the question is how wellcan he throw a deep post!!! and judging from the preseason, not that well. He has yet to see a real d-front. in the preseason, basic d-fenses are played. lets see Matt Ryan when coverage is disguised and Julius Peppers is on that a**!!!! He can’t escape that!!! yeah he throws a good tight ball, when there is no pressure, but let us remember that the falcons gave up 43 sacks last yr, amongst the highest. DJ should end up #2 soon because chris redman sucks, lets remember, he use to sell insurance!!!

By kreese31

September 1, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, what you have to understand is that True Blue fans, those fans that played,understand football and can spot talent, are not happy with this decision of Matt Ryan! he is a good mediocre QB. he is not better than Kyle Boller, chris redman, nor Joey harrington, in fat, he is just like them!!! Yeah Atlanta is Biased to MV7, but we love that guy!!! I went through the Rankin Smith Error, and all I have to say about how Poor of an organization we had is, how does #21(Primetime) wear anything but a Falcon Jersey. MV7 brought Atlanta wins and confidence!!!Matt Ryan, must show that he can continue to bring Atlanta wins, especially for $74 million!!!!!I don’t believe he can do it. hell he was mediore in the ACC (19 int) that is huge considering the ACC hasn’t produced a Shutdown Corner in years, and there weren’t any in the ACC last yr when he was giving up the rok soooo many times!!!!

By Vick Supporter

September 1, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

You people crack me up. Now speaking right at the poduim doesn’t matter, but when the GREAT MIKE VICK was here, he got trashed for that. Its like Unbiased Blogger said before, Ryan is gonna see some real defenses this time and not the scrubs. He’s gonna get destroyed and its gonna be fun to watch. Vick will redeem himself

By Paddy

September 1, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

Myrtle Beach… after reading your comments I have come to this conclusion; you have never played an organized sport of any kind. Not a clue about how team players think. Your comments are elementary and foolish. Go back to the food network and blog your butt off.

By Boo Boo

September 1, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

You still did not sell me on why the Falcon organization will no longer make bonehead decisions. The Falcon organization drafted Steve Bartkowski (who had a strong arm, unlike present phenom) and shortened his career by five years because the quarterback body can only take so many blindside sacks. Blindside sacks come after two false starts and one holding penalty place the quarterback in a first and thirty, time and time again. If the Falcons were just a QB away from getting beyond the NFC Championship game, maybe throw him behind a solid offense. There is no need to win now at all costs. With this team his best shot will be the old Van Brocklin offense: run 2 yards, run 2 yards, run 2 yards, Lotheridge punt inside the 5. That keeps away from the sacks. Of course, that offense depends on a decent defense to score points.

By Mark Bradley

September 1, 2008 1:52 AM | Link to this

As I recall, Bartkowski had bad knees. Ryan does not. (At least not yet.)

By Boo Boo

September 1, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this

:-) Bart played on grass mostly (all home games) too! Grass is so much easier on the knees; but there is only so much a QB’s body can take. Maybe those draws on third and 25 will give the RBs a chance to break off some long runs, making Ryan seem like the hero? Ryan will not pass for 2,500 yeards this year.

By KQuark

September 1, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

Starting Ryan, why not? It’s a good move because the Falcons might win 5 or 6 games this year if they are lucky. I have been very happly Sam Baker and LT and Blalock looks muck improved so if they help out Baker with a TE against elite DE’s the line should perform much better. The best thing I sin in Ryan is that he gets the ball out of his hands quickly. With the great addition of Turner and Norwood behind him and the rising star of Roddy White alone with Finneran back, the development of Laurint Robinson and as a good possession receiver receiver in Jenkins, Ryan has all the offensive weapons around him save a TE. The Defense looks much more cohesive with Hall outta hear and moving Brookings to the week side. I really think the Falcons have a great young nucleous of players and with more help on the DL in the middle and the right side of the OL they could be real competitive in a short time. The best move the falcons made was obviously taking Dimtrof from NE in the off season because he knows how to build a team.

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 1, 2008 2:34 AM | Link to this

MARK BRADLEY - You don’t sound like a columnist. Unless someone is cloning your blogs, it is no secret why ESPN, NFL NETWORK, FOX SPORTS NET or any other sports media doesn’t give Atlanta respect.

Now back to Matt The Swindler Ryan - how you stole all that money is besides me. How could you pay a guy all that money and couldn’t win a measely ACC championship. Joey Harrington could have pulled that off.

America is sick and tired of watching the boring sit in the pocket passers. It’s a dying breed, if you can’t scramble you don’t sell tickets and you don’t make it on national television.

Ryan Leaf or Matt Ryan, the names are not the only things they have in common, if they were vacuums there would be no trash on the field, because they suck more than SHARON.

By GHunt

September 1, 2008 2:36 AM | Link to this

I anm willing to support/give Matt Ryan a chance to prove he can do the job. However, I do not believe that he so much earned the position as rather he was given the most opportunity to be the starter. He was the best during the pre season because he was given the bulk of the playing time.

I am still waiting to see if he can throw the deep ball. Falcons fans let get behind Matt and the rest of the team. The Detroit game will be a good barometer of what we can look forward to.

By Gunner

September 1, 2008 2:39 AM | Link to this

Rember what Peyton said. “I lkearned more starting my first season by playing than I could have ever learned holding a clipboard.” results

3 &13 first season 13& 3 second season

eventually the Superbowl.

I’ll take those stats

By mike vick is in jail, people

September 1, 2008 3:55 AM | Link to this

Hey guys, remember when Vick said this entering his rookie season?:

“I’ve gotten better in understanding the offense, getting familiar with what we’re trying to do as a team, what’s expected of the quarterback, and I’ve gotten better recognizing defenses in the NFL,” Vick said. “The field is different. The numbers are [located] different. The hashmarks are different than they are in college. I’ve gotten better at [understanding] that. You have to grind in the film room. … Take mental pictures of what coverages look like and what certain players do in different situations.”

LOL

Here’s what Vick REALLY said his rookie year:

Hey dawg, this playbook be all complicated, yo. I’ll just run around. Dat money be different in the nfl. I be gettin’ paid. In college, I would only get a G here and a G there, but I getz da millions now. I just bought me a house in Surry County on Moonlight Road…**

By Tony

September 1, 2008 4:53 AM | Link to this

Bradley, of course you would along with his coaches would say that he is the best QB on the team. The proof is in the 72 mill that he is being paid. That is simply politics. But, for those of us who understand that also understand how things work:

By Mike In Woodstock

September 1, 2008 5:46 AM | Link to this

Okay, what scares me about Ryan is he does not have an offensive line and he has the physique of Chris “My Spleen got Crushed” Simms. He looked good in preseason but so did Joey Scarrington last year at this time.

By bigesy830

September 1, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

I listened to Dan Reeves talk on his weekly show. The biggest mistake Arthur Blank made was firing Dan Reeves. But, Mike Vick also lead the charge because Dan Reeves stayed in his butt, and most of you fans wanted Reeves gone. I say that because the year Vick lead the Falcons to the NFC championship game under a terrible coach. I believe we would have won and went to the Super Bowl if Reeves was the coach. The Eagles never got over the hump and made it to the Super Bowl until they played us in the NFC championship. It amazes me how some so called fans can trash the name of the QB that brought the most excitement to the franchise in history. But, I do not believe they are true fans.

Mark Bradley another difference in Matt Ryan and Bartkowski is that Steve Bartkowski was one of the best pure passers in the history of the game. Matt Ryan is and unproven rookie with questionable arm strength. The kid will never be able to hold Bartkowski’s jock strap. Even with bad knees Batkowski could sling the rock. This kid can’t through the deep out or the deep post.

By Sam in Decatur

September 1, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

Great idea guys! Let’s ditch Ryan like we did Farve. That’s what will happen if the ATL haters get their way. Oh and if you’re still a Vick fan for some reason, you’re not a Falcons fan—you’re just a cry-baby hater.

Michael Vick in no way represents Atlanta’s present day diverse community and atmosphere. Vick was a selfish “ME” player and that only reflected the old/ghetto/hood atmosphere of Atlanta. ATL is now a melting pot of believers in the NOW and the FUTURE. And I’m moving forward.

By Biggie E

September 1, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick, after his prison time, WILL come back to the NFL and be the first OPENLY GAY QB to ever win the SUPER BOWL!!!!!

Count on it, HATERS!!!!!

By Myrtle Beach

September 1, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Sorry you feel that way Paddy, of course you are wrong about my sports affiliation thought. Played football starting around 7 and ended up playing at Carrollton High for Charlie Grisham. Made the AJC football honor roll 6 times in 1979. May have had a chance to play college but had knee surgery after a playoff game against Rockmart we lost in overtime 1 to 0. Never watch the Food network but I probably should since you say so. Peace!

By Daryl

September 1, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Dion, go back and re-examine your game tapes. Baltimore played their entire 3rd string defense the whole game. That means, when Matt Ryan was in the game, he was playing with his 1st team offense against the Ravens 3th team defense. When D.J. was in the game, he played with the falcons 2nd team offense. And we all know, D.J.Shockley was the only quarterback on the falcons team to move the football up and down the field.

By david zorro

September 1, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

To all you vick lovers, You talk so greatly about your beloved QB, yeah he had a few good years, but lets be honest for the 2005-2006 season your divine one underachieved so greatly with that team, frankily all you vick worshipers, there is no reason we should not have made the playoffs with that team. UNDERACHIEVEMENT just like the CLAYTON COUNTY SCHOOLS you Morons run, so get over it because the Great White Hope will be the Great White ACHIEVER as we move into a new era with a pocket passer, which history shows even with your black pocket passers which I could only name about 3 who have ever amounted to anything like winning a super bowl {doug williams} comes to mind. Your talent pool is small at the position, it’s a position that takes BRAINS to be effective in this league. JUST run and catch the damn ball and shut the hell up. I’m Out

By Rod

September 1, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Mark, the problem with Ryan starting is all the players know DJ is the best QB, the coaches know it but the front office has hitched the bank to ryan. Any reasonable person can see that DJ is the best QB, he was put in position to fail all preseason hoping they could cut him but DJ had none of that and forced Thomas Dimitroff to have to keep him.

By Daryl

September 1, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

Fire Roger Goodell and Mark Bradley. And , oh yea, don’t forget Arthur Blank. The “root of all evil,” starts at the All three are morons.

By armchaircoordinator

September 1, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

As usual this blog has gotten way off the subject matter of how the Falcons will do this season with Matt Ryan at the helm. Though we are in the 08/09 NFL season, it will resemble Falcons seasons of the past where over the 20yrs that I’ve been in the ATL, I’ve only witnessed two, maybe three winning QB’s for the Falcons. Those Qb’s being Chris Chandler, Mike Vick, & Wade Wilson. I think Bobby Hebert would have won some if he could have gotten out of Glanville’s dog house & maybe that Farve guy! The harsh truth is QB’s in Falcons past didn’t gain success in a game that was more brutal (with respect to QB position and penalties) back then, than it is now where it is more sensitive to protecting QB’s. Chris Miller, Billy Joe Tolliver,& others played in a harsher NFL than Matt Ryan will ever face, but the result will remain the same. For all the criticism that Mike(Vick) still takes, he did get to the playoffs twice. The TEAM had those other two disappointing seasons because the Head Coach (Mora a great guy) stayed loyal to some questionable coordinators (Knapp & Donatell). Knapp -couldn’t make adjustments to his offense in the second have of the seasons starting 6-2 .& 5-2 respectfully. T.J Duckett should have never been released in favor of Warrick caring the entire load especiall in Red Zone Situations. Donatell- When the Falcon’s had leads always went to PREVENT Defenses. ALWAYS! That’s how he lost his job in Greenbay (Flashback NFC Playoffs Eagles vs. Packers. Eagles 4 and 24, Packers go prevent, Eagles convert & ultimately win the game.) Donatell gets fired & hired the following season in Atlanta. Also he couldn’t stop the run. That was ultimately the Falcon’s demise not MV7 and his off the field activity.He’s paying the price for what he did so let’s not judge, he didn’t do anything to ATL folks personally yet we judge him as if he did. Matt will simply have to become a student of the games past in order to progress. Hire Jaws (Ron Jaworski) to help him in the film room. But the Falcons have on thing going for them * The Team that was on the bottom in the NFC South, has risen to the Top the following season, so don’t be surprised* The NFL is all about matchups as it is skill & coaching.

By TJ

September 1, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Mark,

I think that the AJC along with the Falcons organization need to stop forcing us FANS to support Ryan.. It i