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Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > September > 08 > Entry

Just one game — but a statement nonetheless

By Mark Bradley | Monday, September 8, 2008, 05:14 PM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Flowery Branch — For a franchise that has seldom seen anything go according to script, the opener played out as if ordained by a benevolent deity. For one of the few times in Falcons’ history, everything that could have gone right went right. Usually it’s the other way around.

An offensive line that was supposed to be as brutish as Barney Fife opened holes broad enough to hammer out 318 yards rushing. A career backup set the team single-game rushing record in his first Atlanta start. A rookie quarterback threw a touchdown pass on his first delivery. A skeptical city sat up and took notice and, wonder of wonders, began to smile.

And the Falcons themselves? They awoke Monday morning and went back to work.

“We have to show everyone it wasn’t a fluke and we’re not just riding a wave,” said Todd McClure, the center. “Our approach is: ‘It’s over. We’ve done it. Now we’ve got to do it again.’ “

As festive as this September Sunday was, 15 Sundays remain. During the preseason, the new architect Thomas Dimitroff kept stressing that the Falcons’ evolution “is a process.” Back then, his mantra sounded like a plea for patience. After this improbably rousing opener, it can stand as a caution.

The Falcons aren’t yet where they want to be. You don’t raze a franchise in one offseason and turn it into a fortress overnight. What transpired Sunday was the strongest indication yet that this method has merit and that these men are skilled implementers. Said Matt Ryan: “What we did was set a standard for ourselves.”

They won’t always meet that standard. The competition will get tougher — it could hardly do otherwise — and the Falcons’ weaknesses will be brought to light. Ryan will have days when he plays like a rookie. The line will find that not every opponent buckles at the first sign of aggression. The young cornerbacks will get exploited the way young cornerbacks do.

Ryan again: “It’s still so early. To say we’ve proved anything is a little premature.”

Students of Falcon history are a fatalistic lot, and they can cite dire precedents of seasons that burned brightly for one Sunday. The rushing record Michael Turner eclipsed was set by Gerald Riggs in a powerful victory at New Orleans in Week 1 of 1984, and those Falcons finished 4-12. The huckster Jerry Glanville saw his first team beat Houston by 20 points in its opener, and those Falcons finished 5-11.

Said linebacker Michael Boley: “I don’t think we’ve proved a point at all. It’s a long season — 16 games.”

Maybe these Falcons, having surprised us once, will shock us utterly and win seven or eight. More likely it’ll be five or six. But at this nascent stage winning is less important than building, of proving that this franchise is at last in good hands. Speaking of Sunday’s victory, Boley said: “After the offseason we had, we kind of put out a statement — we’re not as bad as everyone thinks.”

We now have cause to believe these Falcons won’t be an embarrassment. They’ll play hard and sometimes well, and they’ll win some games — no 1-15 for this crew! — and they’ll leave us eager for 2009 to arrive, and we as an audience won’t have to drape shopping bags over our heads until then. We’ll be able to relish moments and deeds and even fly off on the wings of hyperbole.

Writing for SI.com, Jay Clemons called Ryan’s touchdown to Michael Jenkins “the greatest-ever first pass by a rookie.” Hearing, even the object of that accolade was moved to laugh.

“I don’t know how you quantify that,” Ryan said. “But I’ll take it.”

Permalink | Comments (130) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL

Comments

By Maniac is accurate

September 8, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Take the win and all the good that went into it and enjoy it. I like the players’ attitude reported here of putting it behind them and getting ready for the next one. I’ve written here several times that the dawn of the Dimitroff-Smith era has a 1977 Lebaron-Bennett feel about it. A break-even year would delight me and feel like a miracle But I think we will be happy with something less if we fans continue to see effort and progress.

By LIfelong Falcons Fan

September 8, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

I’ve watched the Falcons my entire life. Seen many hopes come crashing down and seen a few bright spots. There was something special that happened this weekend. These Falcons are working hard to give Atlanta a team we can be proud of…both on and off the field. Let’s support them as they begin to turn things around. Keep up the good work men!

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 8, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Atlanta won——-Tampa lost———-

The spread is Tampa by 9-points

WHAT DOES THAT TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR STATEMENT MR. BRADLEY

By Patricia

September 8, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

The comment made by Jay Clemons was in the context of it going for a 62-yard TD.

By D-Cider

September 8, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

just one game..period

By JEM

September 8, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

UnbiasedBlogger needs to change her name to NegativeNancy.

By THE BEAR

September 8, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

The Falcons looked good. Speaking of the 9 point spread for Tampa next week I am sure the spread was along those lines for last night’s Bears/Colts game.

And hey, Miami came within one comlpletion of beating the Jets by one point yesterday. Anything is possible.

By E "Buzz" Miller

September 8, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

We may not win anonther, but this one counts and this one, I believe, shows that the Falcons are heading in the right direction and moving away from the selfish “ME FIRST” players that the’ve employed here the past several years. It IS a process….and I can’t wait to watch it develope!!!

By drew

September 8, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

I’ll take the Falcons and 9.

Great start, but more importantly, the right direction. A good running game and great coaching can carry a team a long way.

Keep it up birds.

By OldTimer

September 8, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

That’s one. This is what the beginning of a dynasty looks like and is. Brilliant youth… at GM, coach, quarterback, running back and offensive line. This is a very difficult game to play. It not only requires impressive physical skills but also great attention to detail. These Falcons have it.

By OutOnaLimb

September 8, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

By Unbiased_Blogger September 8, 2008 6:21 PM | Atlanta won��-Tampa lost��- The spread is Tampa by 9-points

Un-BI-assed blogger…. Truthfully I think the only spread that concerns us right now is the 9” spread under yo mama’s dress. Now go play in the traffic. Don’t go away mad but just go away.

By GREER, S.C. DAWG

September 8, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Let’s get serious!!! I’ll take “THE FALCONS” and nine. I would’nt be suprised if they won straight-up. Furman Bisher called this the best Falcons game he had ever seen and for my money—-that’s saying something. They did’nt show the game in this market but I’m native to HOT’lanta and will root for the HOME TEAM!!!

By Bill

September 8, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Old Timer—-Was that nice?

By Bill

September 8, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Old Timer—-Was that nice?

By Bill

September 8, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

Sorry Old Timer that statement was for out on a limb.

By Bubba from Buckhead

September 8, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Falcons are looking good… The Throw The Catch The Runs The Nasty Blocking & The Tough Defense

All the Falcons showed up yesterday and I’m sure it’s not going to end on one Sunday. Guys enjoy the win and continue to work hard

Go Falcons

By your mom

September 8, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Unbiased Booger: if i remember correctly, you also predicted the Lion’s to smack the Falcons around with ease…you just keep on being wrong, buddy!

By OutOnaLimb

September 8, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

Hey Bill I thought that it was Damm Funny and very appropiate. Maybe that negative bastrd will think twice before coming on here again with his bulls_it and negativity. LMAO !!!!

By GODAWGZ

September 8, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

All I can say is wow!! Obviously one game isn’t a season, but if Michael Turner can run like that every week and the line can give him the space to do it, it’s going to take a lot of pressure of Matt Ryan and allow him to settle in with some confidence. Who knows, by the end of the year they may be in the playoff mix!

By OutOnALimb's Mom

September 8, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

Now son that is no way to talk about your long lost Dad. It is not his fault that he left me at the alter. He really does love me, your sister, your ant and oh yeah Bubba sends his love :)

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 8, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Well, I see you’re an agnostic where the Falcons are concerned Mark. However, I sense faith the size of a mustard seed that could grow into full-blown conversion after a few more victories. This is a different team, with a different outlook, from the punching bag Falcons we’ve been disgusted with for many a year. Dimitroff brought a new outlook here and he’s brought in players and coaches who were never part of the problem here. Before the season started, I ventured the opinion the Falcons could, and would, win nine games. I still believe that. Some fans, of he whose name should never be mentioned, are upset that the Falcons won. They say, ‘it’s only the Lions,” but the Lions beat the Falcons 30-14 in 2006. They also defeated the Falcons in 2004. This edition beat the Lions. They’ll beat Tampa next week! This is a good team and they won’t regress as the Falcons of 2005 and 2006 did. Dimitroff has done more than lay the groundwork for a brighter future. He’s brought forth a winner now!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 8, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

By Salty Dawg

September 8, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

It was one game in a long season, but for that one game the Falcons played with fire and they were aggressive on both sides of the ball. What I saw was a lot of young talent capable of doing great things at some point. Maybe not this year and maybe not even next year, but some day soon. If nothing else, the Falcons won me back over and I’ll be happy to support a team making forward progress.

By The Grinch

September 8, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

I’m very proud of the direction the team seems to be moving in. I predicted 6-10 before the first game, and I’ll stick with it. But a lot of the losses will be close, and the franchise no longer has the stench of futility surrounding it. We will be viewed differently around the league, which is a very good thing. And if nothing else, that first game got rid of some of the negative “fans” on here that were driving the real ones off.

By darrell starks

September 8, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

yes yes yes TAKE IT one game at a time.GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Jer

September 8, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

I’m just happy to be at one game were I did not here the Constant “Put Shockley In”

By Salty Dawg

September 8, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Algonquin

I also think this team can win 9 this season. Their schedule is not that tough and this first win, even against the Lions, could spark some confidence in these guys. Even in the preseason the “D” looked pretty strong against first teams. As for Tampa Bay, I’ll take the Birds +9 all day long. Mark my words, that is the easiest money a gambling man will make this year.

By You got to be kidding me

September 8, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

Again, to all the naysayers… A journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step!

By Mark Bradley

September 8, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

The intent wasn’t to rain on anyone’s parade. The intent was merely to reflect what the Falcons themselves believe — that this is a process. That isn’t to say they’re not going to try to win every single game; it’s only to note that starting over takes time and sacrifice and on-the-job training.

By Bill

September 8, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Hey out on a limb—-Amen Brother

By im4ball

September 8, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

No one is expecting the Falcons to go undeafeated. What we, the fans want and hope for is that the franchise from the leadership to the veterans to the rookies, is competent and professional.

From what I have seen, the team is headed in the right direction; plenty of reason to have hope for the future and plenty of reason to keep watching games.

By 30yrlogFalconfan

September 8, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

I’m slowly believing…Sunday was great,but Matt, we’ve got the Bucs Sunday. Get ready for 8,9 in the box with Barber blitzing. Hang in there boys, Atlanta is actually behind you. No, Turner’s not getting 220 in this one, but he very well get half that and we win by less than a TD….get better!!!!

By Gray Mule

September 8, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

Not only did TSN say that Falcons would win one game this season, the CNNSI had the Falcons rated last in their final pre-season rating - Everyone was better than Atlanta.

Falcons may win only one. If that’s true, what a way to get that one!!

I can’t believe that this is the only time that the Falcons will taste victory this season.

We have a TEAM now. There are still a lot of work to do before the Falcons have a really great tham, but step one is behind us. We’re on the right road.

NFC South, worst to first is the norm. Step one is behind us. Still, a long, long way to go. 15 more chances to break that one win that TSN said we would get.

GO FALCONS!!

Gray Mule

By TrueDirtyBird

September 8, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

I am a college student at UGA. I am from the south (a little north of Jax) and have been long time falcon fan. My father was a fan when they came into the league in 1966 and brought onto me a die-hard love for the Falcons. I have memories of sticking an antenna ten yards into the air hoping to pick up any falcon games off the air waves. I tell you all this to point out that last Sunday’s team gave me hope and pride of my falcons, something I have not had for a long time. I understand Mr. Bradley’s comments about a process and the importance of patience. I love the new style, look, just overall feel of the team. Now, don’t mistake this team to make a run like in 1999, but do have faith in Dimitroff’s system. It will churn out a team that is going to compete for the Falcons and us fans. It’s only the beginning. However, sell out (no pun intended) on our new Falcons and show them the support they deserve!

TrueDirtyBird

By Mark Bradley

September 8, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing how much difference one game can make. If nothing else, people are at least willing to give the Falcons the benefit of the doubt now. Before Sunday there was mostly just doubt.

By Sept 7, 2003

September 8, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

We’ve heard it all before

By Mavis Beacon

September 8, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

The FALCONS definitely made a statement on Sunday. I am so very proud of them!

Speaking of making statements, who said the following famous phrase?

“Fee Fi Fo Fum…”

Was it?

A. The Giant from “Jack and The Beanstalk”

B. Mike Vick while calling an alpha-numeric play in the huddle as FALCONS QB

C. A supporter of Mike Vick counting his stolen money to use for buying tickets to see Vick

D. Mike Vick reciting his new uniform number for the warden

E. All of the above

By Trainwreck

September 8, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

sorry… this has nothing to do with the topic of the article but… I’m watching the Bronco-Raider game and… Matt Prater has made a FG (shocking!) and Deangelo Hall just got 2 straight personal fouls called on him (sound familiar?) ok I’ll read the article now

By it's a new season

September 8, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

Anyone see MeAngelo Hall commit 2 personal foul penalties on the same drive leading to a touchdown for Denver tonight? Congrats again to Dimitroff for cleaning the house of thugs and bonheads and bringing in some winners.

By Boo Boo

September 8, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

A win is a win is a win. For the Atlanta Falcons, a win is a seldom cherished thing. Thus, Mark Bradley waxes poetically like he is enjoying a fine cigar after sex.

Since so many made light of the Falcon defense not giving up an offensive touchdown for x-number of quarters, well, that number dropped to 2 and counting now. Reading yesterday, the whole team was prepared to see a 21-21 tie, until Lawyer scooped up an INT. That proves there is still a loser mentality to erase. Winning helps that, but count this victory like an extra exhibition game.

Tampa Bay looks to be a much stronger test. The real season begins next week, with a divisional opponent, in their place, during the summer when Florida can melt losers. If the birds fly high under those circumstances, then get out the merrymakers and firecrackers, cause we got a winner in town. Until then, cherish one of those rare victories.

By robbo

September 9, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

By it’s a new season: Yup, I noticed. Man am I glad we got rid of him & his cronies. Yeah, he’s athletic and all that, blah, blah, blah …

Still, dumb as a rock and will cost his team several victories and penalties. What a jerk!

So glad we’re finally thug-free!!!!

By i loved william andrews

September 9, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

my friend is a lion fan hes had been doggin me for weeks 2nd quater he wasnt answering his phone

By bob t.

September 9, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

it’s the lions, come on……but, nice win none the less…

By No vick, no problem

September 9, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

Is anyone catching the raiders game? Man they are going to come looking for Mr blank for a refund. Deangelo is getting schooled by that rookie royal!!!! Wow!!! hahaahahahahahahahahah

By NoThugsNoWin

September 9, 2008 3:11 AM | Link to this

TURNER/NORWOOD/ABRAHAM/WHITE/JENKINS - Thanks for showing some big ones. Brookins/Ryan = weak a** punks. Brothas rule this team!!!!!!!

By ShanghaiATL

September 9, 2008 4:12 AM | Link to this

Penalties and pass defense need to be addressed. None of the media reports on the game mentioned the areas the Falcons must improve. We know it’s a process, it will take time, etc. Mark, what specifically do you think the Falcons must do better next time, against a more formidable opponent? Thanks.

By MV7 Fan

September 9, 2008 5:42 AM | Link to this

It’s a long season and the jury’s still out but so far I like what I see. Just think what a win against Tampa will do!

Can we please dispense with the negativity and just enjoy this season whether it’s good, bad, or indifferent? Is this too much to ask? Yes I am a Vick fan, but I’m a Falcons fan first!

By SickandTired

September 9, 2008 5:45 AM | Link to this

Thank you Mike Vick for enjoying your dog fighting. Thank you DeAngelo Hall for showing your overrated A$$ so many times that the franchise saw fit to give you away. Thank you Falcons of 2007 for playing to a level of disaster and certainly thank you Bobby Petrino for being a lily livered coward and abandoning ship. All of the above has allowed this franchise to out of necessity, make all the major changes and hires in management to get to where they are today. Now where they are today as Mark stated is the beginning of a process. But for the first time in my Falcon watching life, yes I saw the first game they ever played, I have faith that they are on firm ground and have football people that can take this franchise to some sort of stability. One of the most amazing statistics in sports is that the Falcons have NEVER had back to back winning seasons. That I believe is about to change. Thanks Mike for getting the ball rolling in the right direction.

By Paddy

September 9, 2008 6:32 AM | Link to this

No Thugs No Win…..you can’t fool me this time. But good try. Mike Smith can coach and has players respect. Great combination for the future.

By Did you miss me!!!

September 9, 2008 7:02 AM | Link to this

Warrick Dunn � 9 att for 56 yds Alge Crumpler � 1 rec for 4 yds And mister we�ll (Raiders) will win before Atlanta DeAngelo Hall got toasted twice by a rookie and surprise, surprise had two personal fouls.

Thank You Mr. Dimitroff for getting rid of that baggage!!!

By Bud Wiser

September 9, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this

D. Hall - different jersey ……same-self inflated, overrated ego maniacal tool…whatever skills he had are gone

I hope Vick got to see the game Sunday on PrisonTV.

NoThugsNoWin, take your crap and hit the streets. This was a team effort by everyone, no one laid down like your former man D Hall did every game last year. His pi$$ poor attitude, and even weaker performance, will be right at home in Oakland.

Lookin for a good show next week in Tampa!

By falcondawg

September 9, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this

It was so much fun reading these posts until the racist insinuations (both black and white) started. Most posts discussed the game (whether positive or negative). But a few of the last ones simply used this space to voice their ignorance.

By D.Ellis

September 9, 2008 7:32 AM | Link to this

To all the Falcon fans who were in love with D-Hall but Blinded by the fact he was wearing a Falcon helmet….I hope you guys/gals got a good look at WHAT A TRUE MEDICORE CORNER BACK IN THE NFL DEANGELO HALL IS. MEDIOCRE AT BEST. HE IS HOT DOO DOO WHO GOT TAKEN TO THE WOOD SHED AND GOT THE BEATEN OF THE WEEK.

By littlebird

September 9, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this

The Raiders have the “ALL PRO MOUTH” now to contend with. Hall is nothing but mouth … always has been and that’s why he’s in Oakland. Can’t cover a pile of - - - -! He already had 2 Personal fouls called on the same drive that cost his team a TD … And a rookie receiver made him look pitiful. Thank you Raiders for taking him!!!!

By Paul

September 9, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this

Hall’s debut with Raiders not so promising NEW DEFENSIVE BACK PROVIDES LITTLE PASS COVERAGE IN LOSS By Steve Corkran Bay Area News Group Article Launched: 09/08/2008 11:34:06 PM PDT

DeAngelo Hall, who arrived in Oakland with a reputation for losing his composure, showed why Monday night.

Twice in a three-play span late in the first half, Hall was penalized for a personal foul on Denver rookie receiver Eddie Royal. Those penalties aided a Broncos touchdown drive that stretched their lead to 17-0.

Coach Lane Kiffin pulled Hall aside after the Broncos scored. Hall delivered an animated defense.

He didn’t deliver much more in his Raiders debut. Time and again, Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler targeted Hall. More times than not, the Broncos receiver made the catch without much resistance

By Falconsrule

September 9, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

Bradley,

In what seems to be a running gag on here. Can I see you just say this once.

THERE IS JUST SOMETHING ABOUT THESE FALCONS!!!!

You know what I agree with you!

By safeman

September 9, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Hey DeAngelo how do you like us now? You and your Raiders took a pretty good beat down by the Broncos! You got burned by a rookie reciever. Oh, let’s not forget about Alge and Warrick. See Ya Losers!

By MIKEFINO777

September 9, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

OK Atlanta,,we now have the college coach coaching the college (Paul Johnson),,and the pro coach (Mike Smith) coaching the pros,,and both teams seem to have a plan. Was that so hard ? ps. Al Davis…You could REALLY use Mike Vick too,,DeAngelo needs some company

By bigeasy830

September 9, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

One game does not make a season or a career. The Falcons will still win 4 games or less. I no longer believe we are the worst team in the league Detroit is horrible. Oakland is horrible, and God help ST. Louis. But, the win was a nice spark the city needed. Hopefully we can pull out a surprise and beat Tampa. Coach Smith, Mularkey and Van Gorder did a great job preparing the team. It’s great seeing a well coached team on the field again. And, as long as you have great coaches anything can happen. People like to say that the NFL is a talent driven league. Thats not totally true. If a team does not have the coaches to keep everyone on the same page then talent means nothing. We did the right thing by hiring Coach Smith,so, irregardless of how many wins we get this season lets keep supporting this team and coaching staff until we get the talent in here to contend for a Super Bowl.

Holla…

By Bradley is dumb

September 9, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Bradley, you never, never learn, do you!

Bama beat Clemson 34-10 and the everybody thought that spokes volumes about where Bama is, but then Bama squeaks by a first game for Tulane in Tusc, Palease. That Clemson win meant nothing. In other words, was Altanta that good or Detriot that pathetic. Somewhere in between but closer to the later.

By phatt

September 9, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Before the game, I was asking how ANYONE could pick the Falcons to be the worst. How can anyone pick a team with so much talent at the skilled positions to be so bad?

It’s simple, if you can run the ball and play tough defense, you don’t need to rely on the rookie so much. Our defense is fully capable of stopping the run, it’s the passing D that I’m worried about. I definitely like the direction this franchise is going.

AND, people keep saying how it was “only the Lions”. Who gives a shiot. They have been a .500 team for the last few years. That’s much better than anyone thinks the Falcs will do.

We just beat a decent team and people need to get used to it…

By phatt

September 9, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

AND it was great to see MEANGELO Hall mouthing off last night getting penalties and getting burned. Reminded me of the Carolina game last year. Except, this year he was getting burned by a ROOKIE!!!!

By joe

September 9, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick is in jail, Vince Young got booed, Tarvarius Jackson had 6 yard passing at halftime, Jamarcus Russell was losing 41-0.

Mattie Ice looked great, Jay Cutler looks like the next great QB.

Anyone see a pattern?

By The Truth

September 9, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

Pick on Hall all you want, but calling Warrick Dunn and Alge Crumpler losers is just wrong.

By rob

September 9, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Hey joe, Donovan Mcnabb had the best stats at the quarterback position this week. So no, i don’t see a pattern.

By Bob

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

It’s good to see DeAngelo Hall is playing just as well with San Diego as he did with the Falcons. Go Birds!

By DeAngelo_Fall

September 9, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

I may be the laughing stock of the league, but I’m still a Pro Bowler!!

By Tami

September 9, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Just wanted to put my “two cents” in, unfortunately not having much time to read all bloggers’ comments today. I’m not sure what I expected going in to Sunday’s Falcons game, except that I hoped they didn’t stink too badly. In fact, I was hoping that we’d only lose by a touchdown so that all NFL “analysts” could pronounce the Falcons as “improved significantly”. When an NFL organization such as the Falcons hits rock bottom as they did last season, there’s only one way to go from there and that’s UP. I didn’t expect that the team would play the way they did, though. I’m pleased to say that I’m elated over the surprising win. What curbed that emotion a bit, though, is that the Falcons’ run defense just about completely failed. A team cannot consistently give up 10-yard passes for one first down after another and expect to have a winning season. If it wasn’t for the offense (aka-Turner) scoring with regularity, we might be talking a bit differently today. They must defense the run better, and that will (hopefully) come with a few games of experience for the kids at cornerback. Looks much, much better than last year, though!

By Hollywould

September 9, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Good article Mark. Yeah, it is one game but you play em one at a time. Might get beat this week but who knows? The future looks bright. Abraham is a beast!!

By bookie

September 9, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

JOE…. Kitna looked bad. Palmer look bad, Matt schaub look bad, Matt Hasselbeck looked bad, mark bulger was bad, YO boy P. Manning got his a* kicked. The list goes on

So do you see a pattern???

Your color does not matter

By Old Fan

September 9, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

I admit I didn’t want Ryan I wanted several lineman DL and OL I didn’t want to trade up and take Baker. I didn’t want to see Alge leave. I WAS WRONG I really like Coach Smith. I like the way he is building this TEAM. The last time we saw a TEAM effort here was in the Dan Reeves era. If the Falcons keep playing well coached, hard nosed, smart football good things will happen. Makes me proud to be a Falcon fan. The past is the past. doesn’t matter if you are the Patriots or the Falcons. Let’s look forward, our Team certainly is.

By Ozzy

September 9, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Why is everyone being so Pessimistic? We rolled over Lions. We may have the best running back Combo in NFL, and a very talented QB. We have two All Pro Linebackers and Kicking game will be much better now that Morten Anderson has finally retired. Special teams has always been good for us. So it is not just the Offense line that you can win games with. Falcons of this year remind of of New Orleans of 2 years ago when they had just gotten Drew brees. Having a good QB can change the game. Don’t forget the much improved Defense and the talent coaches we have. I think we have a legitimate chance of winning the division. A win in Tampa next week can defintely provie that. Ozzy.

By Mark Bradley

September 9, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

According to the Associated Press account, DeAngelo Hall claimed both personal fouls were bad calls.

By igotxx3

September 9, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

smh @ still talkin bout vick and cant just enjoy the great win… Hey do yall think the falcons will lead in rushin yards this season?

By Hollywould

September 9, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

I saw both plays/ first was horsecollar out of bounds/no need 2nd Royal ran a comeback/Hall slipped/after royal caught it he slipped and was laying on his stomach and finally here comes Hall to hit him while he was defenseless. Hall is full of it. After that he was barking one on one with the head coach. Does something ring familiar?

By Bo

September 9, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Thats right Mark. Thank God he’s gone. Hall’s up to his same old tricks but this time someone else is paying the 70 million. Go Falcons!!

By Mark Bradley

September 9, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

If you’re starting over, as the Falcons are, DeAngelo Hall is a good guy to start over without.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 9, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

”They just outschemed us and outplayed us. We didn’t show up at all,” Hall said. ”They came out and dominated us from start to finish.”

Jay Cutler replied that the Broncos hadn’t done any scheming where Hall was concerned. Simply put, Royal had beaten Hall time after time! It’s not necessary to scheme to beat this bum is what he seemed to be saying.

Hall has reached the end of the line! Oakland is where bums who can’t play go to become convinced they can’t play. It’s also the last address in the NFL for many non-talents. Look around the league and you won’t find many former Raiders on the rosters of other teams. Hall was never anything but a small bag of ill-wind that has now been broken. He’s on his way out of the league and I mean this year. He won’t be on the Raiders roster in six weeks. Believe it!

By ATLfan

September 9, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Yes.. it is one game. A great way to start the season! I think we can beat the Bucs this Sunday.

It looks like the offense has the right pieces.. but the lack of depth and talent on defense will probebly hurt down the road.

Go Birds!

By willdave

September 9, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

As we true Falcon fans bask in the euphoria of Sunday’s stunning victory, I think Michael Boley’s quote puts things in true perspective: �After the offseason we had, we kind of put out a statement � we�re not as bad as everyone thinks.� That’s what I’ve been trying to tell some of you negativity posters all along. After all the changes and new personnel added to this team, I simply could not imagine the Birds being as bad as what some of you haters and the so-called experts predicted. Some of you accused Matt Ryan of being “boring,” whatever that meant, second-guessed the front office for taking him over injury-prone Glenn Dorsey, and predicted he would be ineffective as an NFL QB. I cautioned you guys to give Matt a chance. See what he can do before you heap so much criticism on him. Well, on Sunday this 23-year-old rookie proved beyond any doubt whatsoever that he deserves to be the new franchise QB for this team. “MV7 Fan,” you can continue to post love notes to your imprisoned QB on Falcon-related columns if you wish. However, they are now as irrelevant as yesterday’s news. The brilliant game that Matt Ryan turned in Sunday has forever removed even the slightest possibility that your convict will ever play for this team again. “bookie,” I don’t really get the point of your comments. Your logic is hard to follow. However, if you are suggesting that all supporters of Matt Ryan do so out of racist tendencies, you are sorely mistaken. All the reasons I have posted in support of Ryan have had absolutely nothing to do with race. Likewise, all the criticisms that I have posted of that convict have had absolutely nothing to do with race. Moreover, most of the comments that I see from others follow that same standard of color-blindness. Finally, I have posted many comments in support of DJ Shockley, a very talented, upstanding young African-American. Whenever DJ plays this season, you can bet your last dollar I will be cheering for him just as vigorously as I will cheer for Matt. GO FALCONS!!!

By D.Ellis

September 9, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

I bet my dinky paycheck that if D-Hall would have got a pick last night…while still being down 30 in the 4th quarter he would have run to mid field and got on his knees and raised his hands to the air like he was good.

By Protest to much?

September 9, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

I am very proud of the fans on this blog for sticking to the subjecy for the first time since I can remember. Great job Falcons and Ryan. A few more games like that and I will begin to believe that he is worth the money, (Understand, its hard for me to believe that ANYONE is worth that much)..

MAVIS BEACON Get a life. You are not even slightly amusing. Have you ever asked yourself why you are OBSESSED with MVick? Get some help.

By Deber

September 9, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Where’s Terence Moore’s article??? Guess he’s having to dig deep to find where Mike Vick, D-Hall, Joe Horn & Alge couldve done a better job this past Sunday…

By Mark Bradley

September 9, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

It will be instructive to see how Ryan fares in Tampa. That’s about as tough a team for a young quarterback to face as there is.

By FALCON-FEVER-TRUE-BELIEVER

September 9, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Congrats to the falcons for their excellent first game under the new regime. Unfortunately, my season tickets were surrounded by the lowely lions fans who made the victory less sweet at times, but much sweeter by the end. Anyways, I was highly disappointed by the last 1:30 of the first half. Hopefully, everyone learned from this and we can correct it for the future.

By D.Ellis

September 9, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Yes Mark-Tamba is always known to have a very solid defense. They will key on the run, and Ryan will most certainly attempt more than the 13 passes he did on Sunday.

I find it funny though how alot of posts are saying big deal the Falcons beat the Lions. They stink. well guess waht the Falcons were picked to stink as well, and they beat a stinky team (Lions) like you are supposed to beat a stinky team.

I tihnk a big key to the Tampa game wil lbe how the defense stacks against Graham and the Tampa running game. If Ryan nas to throwe the ball the defense needs a lot of stops to allow Ryan to get in a rythym.

By Mark Bradley

September 9, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

To D. Ellis: Imagine what those folks who are saying, “It was only the Lions,” would be saying if the Falcons had lost to the Lions.

You can only beat who you play. The Falcons will face a much stronger opponent this week. We’ll know a lot more Sunday night.

By DiMaggio Spencer

September 9, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

I must admit I was very skeptical about the game Sunday. I also must keep in mind that this is only one game 1 of 16; I want to say great game guys! Keep your focus and watch the movie “300” collectively as a team. All the odds were stacked against those men, but they believed in themselves and they feared no adversary that came their way. They emerged as one prolific force, their wells were not weaken, their strength did not wither. STAND TOGETHER “FALCONS” LIKE THE MIGHTY “300” soldiers, that battled every opponent to their last breathe. Show the world that the Super Bowl is not pre-destined for the Dallas Cowoys in the NFC conference!

By DiMaggio Spencer

September 9, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

By Boo Boo

September 9, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Hey all you negative people!!! D. Hall was leading his team in tackles, last I looked. At least he close enough to jump on the guy after he let him catch the ball. Maybe the real test is to ask D. Hall if he volunteered to return punts. Maybe he said, “Coach, put me in there” while they were chatting on the sidelines after that penalty? Now that would be a sign of a changed man.

By jc_dawgs

September 9, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Also…do not forget the 2003 season when Vick got hurt. Game 1 was a 27-13 win at a not so good at the time Dallas team. The rest of the season went bad for the Falcons as they finished 5-11.

I will say this though…the prediction that the Falcons would only win 1 game was absolutely rediculous…that I do know.

By THOMAS

September 9, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this