Mark Bradley

By intellibird

September 14, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Go Birds!
Prediction Atlanta wins 26-17. Tampa Bay columnists 0 for 3.

By dexter the dawg

September 14, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

Hopefully, the Falcons will kick the stuffing out of the Bucs today. There is no team that I hate worse in the NFL! All of the years that their arrogance has dripped off of them during the games that thy pile-drived us into oblivion. I hope that our dynasty, and dominance of them beggins today, and last at least a decade more! Go Dirty Birds!!!!!!!!!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 14, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

The Falcons will win today! Look for Turner to throw a touchdown pass.

By Drayton Xavier

September 14, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Defense looks solid on paper - and in the games. Turner’s on pace for 3400+ yards, and Norwood’s on pace for 1600+. Ryan played the QB position PERFECTLY in game 1. This won’t continue - but it doesn’t have to for us to have a great offense this year. If Turner can rush for 1600, Norwood for 900, and Ryan has a positive touchdown-int ratio, we’ll be the talk of the NFL this year - and will make the playoffs. Happy Birthday Mark Bradley!

By BIrdman

September 14, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

How’s it looking Mark? Is Brooks dressed?

By Jeff

September 14, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

i read Grady Jackson is inactive on a website (fanball), do you know why?

By Ron

September 14, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Happy Birthday , Mark. During my years living in Southeast Asia, your columns gave a spark of color to the sports news from ATL, thanks. Hope the Facons pull another surprise and pull out another “W”. It wouldn’t realistically spark mass delusions of a superbowl, but it would validate some realistic confidence in the future of the Falcon franchise based on the execution of the plan as envisioned by the new GM and coach.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Drayton. Thanks, Ron.

Derrick Brooks is dressed. Grady Jackson is inactive, which is a surprise. He woke up at 3 a.m. with a sore knee, according to esteemed colleague Darryl Ledbetter.

It’s actually raining, by the way. Not hard, but raining nonetheless. I hear it does that now and then down here.

By neal

September 14, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Still positive that we will win but they have not kicked off yet….LOL

By BirdMan

September 14, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Happy B-Day, Mark!

By Ted Striker

September 14, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Every day Grady Jackson doesn’t wake up with TWO sore knees is a miracle

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

RYAN IS OFF TO A GREAT START :) Well to a real defense :)

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Ryan threw high to Jerious Norwood on third down, and Aqib Talib intercepted the tipped ball. Tampa Bay drove and scored on Griese’s pass to John Gilmore. You might recall that it was the third play of the game last season when Ronde Barber intercepted Redman’s pass and scored.

Memo to the Falcons: Run the ball on the third play of the game down here next year. Or, better still, punt.

By AJC: race war supporters?

September 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

I said it last week & I’ll say it again, let’s not get carried away in labeling Ryan as the QB we’ve all been waiting for. Make no mistakes about it, I’m definitely pulling for the team. I’m just curious to know if the same folks singing his praises & making comparisons last week (you know what I’m talking about) will make excuses for him this week.

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

An interception and touch down already?

TAMPA 7 ATL 0

This is what it’s like when you put a bust up against a “REAL” defense. Come on BRADLEY & Atl fans - where are you now?

LET THE BLOOD BATH CONTINUE :)

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

I said it last week & I’ll say it again, let’s not get carried away in labeling Ryan as the QB we’ve all been waiting for. Make no mistakes about it, I’m definitely pulling for the team. I’m just curious to know if the same folks singing his praises & making comparisons last week (you know what I’m talking about) will make excuses for him this week.

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Hmmm:

Coaching = F Ryan = F Defense = F

Great Start

By CDS

September 14, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

The Detroit Lions just gave up 48 points to the Packers. They have a terrible defense. That’s why I wanted to see what Ryan and Turner can do against a good defense on the road. So far, it’s not looking too good.

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the double post!

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Hey, it’s early yet, folks. (Then again, I was saying that during Game 7 in Boston four months ago, and that one got late pretty fast.)

Ryan overthrew Norwood on third down again to quash a promising drive. Memo to Matty: Don’t throw the ball to Norwood. Or, better yet, aim better.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Your attention, please. Keith Brooking just made a stop on third down. Just so nobody accuses him of going another whole game without doing anything.

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

D line is looking pretty good. Zone has a lotta holes though. Good defensive series.

By Brian

September 14, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

D looking pretty good though.

By TAMPA BAY

September 14, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

KEN STRICKLAND - Where are you buddy?

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Gee, I wonder if the pass rush made the trip to Tampa Bay…

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Coaching issues:

12 men in huddle… Illegal formation…

By Ron

September 14, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

I can’t see the game from where I am, but just reading this and looking at the espn gametracker from time to time, I wouldn’t give up on a rookie qb’s career based on a tipped ball interception in his second “live” pro game. 0 for 5 ain’t great for the first quarter, but it is a long season, and I suspect most folks realistically consider this a learning year for him with a high draft choice next year to bolster the o-line for the future. Here’s hoping the learning curve shows some results the second quarter!

By TAMPA BAY

September 14, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Where are all those ATLANTA Fans last week.

IT’S GETTING UGLY FAST !!!

By neal

September 14, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

good run stopping so far but no qb pressure

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

End of quarter. Bucs 7, Falcs nil.

Get used to this kind of football, folks, and not just this week for most of the weeks to come. The Falcons are playing defense and running the ball and trying to manage the game, which is what you have to do on the road with a young quarterback. Example: The draw to Norwood on third-and-15. Some might call that a give-up play. I call it common sense.

By Reality_Check

September 14, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Just like I predicted! 72-million dollars for 0-5 and an interception. Can you say B. U. S. T.?

Say it with me and nodd your heads. Are you analyzing this BRADLEY. By the way, the RAIDERS WON 23-8.

By neal

September 14, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

and the true fans are still here……but I guess after being beat last week the TB fans will come out now their playing a young team…goes to show the true colors of a TB team that if lucky will win maybe 7

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

I’m not saying let’s give up on the rookie QB, I’m just saying that some of you shouldn’t let your haste to bring on “a new era” cause us to prematurely crown him the QB we’ve been longing for…like folks were doing last week…in all their comparisons…

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

I guess Mr. Dunn heard that people on this blog were calling him a thug and a malcontent and a bum….LOL

By TAMPA BAY

September 14, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

1st and goal at the 23 - oh well T O U C H D O W N :)

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Some good fireworks were just expended for nothing. Earnest Graham appeared to score on an 8-yard run, but the play was flagged for holding on B.J. Askew. The cannon from the pirate ship loosed a volley to celebrate what was in effect a 10-yard penalty.

Then, just as it seemed the Falcons had stopped the Bucs, Warrick Dunn popped a draw on third-and-goal from the 17 and scored. A great call.

Jon Gruden, as you might have heard, is a shrewd guy. He’s managing the game, too, and he has the advantage of having the better team.

Bucs 14, Falcs nil. Danger time for Matt Ryan and the young Birds.

By Realist

September 14, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Smith really made a mistake by not challenging the spot on Dunn’s TD. He didn’t get in, and it would have been Fourth and Goal.

By Where's the D

September 14, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Ok. Can the Falcons stop a 3rd down play anytime? Looks like they can’t.

By stendec

September 14, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Falcons are F+++++G losers! Ryan a F+++++G waste! Defense a F+++++K joke! Coaches F+++++G morons! Team will be F+++++G luckry as Hell to win two games this season! Touchdown on a F+++++G third-and-forever? Keith Brooking needs to be put out to F+++++G pasture! Nobody in F+++++G secondary could a damn one-legged elderly woman in a wheelchair! Total embarassment! No heart! No guts! No desire! No F+++++G talent! F++K them all!

By TAMPA BAY

September 14, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

RYAN LEAF - 0-6….Will he complete a pass today :)

WHAT A BUST

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Hello…where are you guys from last week with your comparisons?

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Hmmm…throwing everything high…sounds vaguely familiar…

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Mike Vick struggled in his first couple of games against (a much better) Tampa defense, but even he didn’t go 0/8 with 2 picks to start the game.

This is what happens when you draft a QB before you have a team, and this is why the Falcons will never be good.

Good luck #2, you’re gonna need it with this team.

P.S. The Bucs are missing their best defender today too.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, great to see Warrick Dunn run for 17 yards for a TD… about 16 yards more than the Falcons line ever let him run while he was here.

By Dane

September 14, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Bucs 17, Falc 0 Stick to the running game, passing is overrated.

By Ben M in Albany

September 14, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Good call there stendec….saw the replay of Dunns TD and Brooking just stood there and watched him go by. Cement for feet is not a good attribute for playing in the NFL

By Dane

September 14, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Bucs 17, Falc 0 Stick to the running game, passing is overrated.

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

DEAR ATLANTA:

You all said I was too short, couldn’t pass, couldn’t read defenses. So you dreamed up a tall, blue eyed traditional passer and pay him 72-million dollars and even labeled him “face of the franchise”. How is that working out for you?

Last week you wanted to give him the key to the city against a WEAK Detroit team who gave up 48-points today and he only passed 13 times.

Today he is 0-8 with 2-interceptions. I must say he is really reading the defense pretty well today and with a better offensive line and 2-great running backs.

I can’t wait to join my new Team Carolina and destroy this already pathetic franchise, even though you are 72-million less.

Sincerely,

Mike Vick

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Just like the good old days again.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

OK, here it is: Matt Ryan looks like a rookie. He’s 0-for-8 with two interceptions.

Let’s see how he responds to a terrible start. This game could get out of hand before halftime, assuming it isn’t already. I imagine the Falcons will try to run the ball on this next drive.

Bucs 17, Falcs nil. Why am I thinking I’ve seen this one before?

By Falcons Blog Greatest Misses

September 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

“We finally have a quarterback intelligent enough to read defenses. We finally have a quarterback that can throw the ball with some accuracy!” lol

By Where's the D

September 14, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Well. Does this look like the Falcons of old when they play the Bucs? Jeez. So much for the euphoria of last week carrying forward.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Ryan: 0-for-9 now. Just overthrew Roddy White.

On the other hand, Glenn Dorsey’s team got beat by the Raiders today. So he hasn’t exactly turned Kansas City around, either. And guess who the Falcons play next week?

By Will

September 14, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Is Ryan going to complete a pass today? Just saying…

By Falcons610

September 14, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

VICK ALSO DID NOT LEAD HIS TEAM TO A 3 SCORE 3 DRIVE OFFENSIVE STAND.

VICK DID NOT THROW A TD ON HIS FIRST EVER NFL PASS.

Come on he is a rookie, Peyton Manning had 29 INT’s his first season, give the guy a break.

He is your Atlanta QB now so get used to it. Vick isn’t coming back so you might as well get behind your team.

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

You have seen it before, Mark. Hopefully it’ll get better before it gets worse. I just hope this doesn’t damage Ryan’s confidence.

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

You have seen it before, Mark. Hopefully it’ll get better before it gets worse. I just hope this doesn’t damage Ryan’s confidence.

By Birdman

September 14, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

Falcons D is not good. Ryan is a rookie! This game was over on the first drive when we decided to throw on three straight plays deep in the other teams endzone.

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

DJ DJ DJ DJ DJ

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

There is no team I like losing to less than the Yucs… :-\

By Where's the D

September 14, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Not so fast. Falcons still stink.

By Matty

September 14, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Matt has those happy feet. I understand a rookie QB has to take his lumps but he is not standing tall in there and delivering the football. He is tap dancing and then slinging it with no mechanics at all, that’s why everything is sailing on him. We might as well pull him to the side today and rebuild - if he is gonna be acting scared back there he has NO chance of being productive on this Sunday.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

At least can this defense make an interception… I’m playing against Brian Griese in fantasy.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Great day for first-round rookies. Ryan hasn’t completed a pass, and Sam Baker is hurt.

By M. R. Biggins

September 14, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Time to switch to channel 13 for the Jets and Pats. At least that is a competetive game.

By bookie

September 14, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Im glad we got Matt. If it was not for his “intangibles” we would be getting our a* kick. lol

By neal

September 14, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

wow who would have thought matt would look like a rookie….I guess we should dump him according to all the haters…second game and I guess we should just quit the season. I do wanna warn yall next time we face the great almighty TB will be at home with a more experience ryan. laugh it up now chucky fans

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

I wonder how many fans went out and bought season tickets after last weeks anomaly.

By M. R. Biggins

September 14, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark, Ryan has completed 3 passes…2 to the Bucs and one to our side.

By BCS Slave

September 14, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Hello! Ryan is a rookie. I saw a few people predicting super bowls for this team…most of us realistically said 5 or 6 wins. This game does not mean Ryan is a bust.

I’m in Alabama and this place shows Saints games. There is no radio broadcasts. So I’m relying on the blogs to feed me. This place is the armpit of the US (no offense to anyone who loves Alabama)

By preston

September 14, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

ok guys will you give this Vick stuff a rest……….I have been one of his biggest fans, but we have to stop this BS….I don’t care how bad Ryan is looking today, he is the QB of this team so lets support the team and stick with him, or just STFU!!!!!

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

Ryan just completed a pass. To Roddy White for 9 yards. So there’s that.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

Punting from their 38 was a totally wussy move…

By intellibird

September 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Defense looks good. Without the turnovers the score would be 7-0. Hopefully we can make some adjustments, though it looks like our offensive line is just getting beat physically.

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Falcons610: LOL. You don’t really want to compare the stats of a rookie with one NFL start under is belt with those of a former Pro Bowler do you? You’ve got to be kidding. LOL. Let it go…let it go. What Ryan did last week doesn’t make today’s performance look any less brutal. Let it go…let it go…

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

According to Falcons publicist, Sam Baker has a concussion. A good day gets even better.

By bookie

September 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Falcons610 , Vick DID put butts in the seats. Vick DID put atlanta on the map. Vick DID beat green bay in green bay in a playoff game. That didnt happen until Vick DID it. Did you forget all those things or maybe your hatred forces you to look over them.

By ed

September 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Die, FoxBot. Die. Please.

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Coach Smith will stick with Ryan in the second half or risk doing serious damage to his ego

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

BRADLEY - You failed to mention that the team that beat Kansas City today was D HALL’s team :) Analyze that :)

GO F A L C O N S & and take the Braves with you :)

By edward

September 14, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

I knew Ryan would have trouble, but I didn’t think it would be this bad!! Is it time to put in Redman or Shockley? Just to see if we can get anything going?

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Aaron Rodgers today, in his 2nd ever start in the NFL, went 24-38 for 328 yards and 3 TDs against the almighty Lions, who the Falcons defeated last week.

By Falcon Fan Since Day One

September 14, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

What’s with the play calling of the Falcons airing it out on 3 and 3. We could have benefited from a 1st down and 3 more shots - maybe at least kick a field goal and see if we can get a bit of offensive confidence going. Then we stop Bucs within the 20 with about 2:25 to go and don’t take time out - letting 25 valuable seconds tick off. Just seems like poor decisons by the coaching staff on these two calls.

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

* Hey Falcons610* Just because someone is your teams quarterback DOES NOT mean that you have to support them. YOU MADE THAT ABUNDANTLY CLEAR WHEN VICK WAS THE QB.

By edward

September 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

I knew Ryan would have trouble, but I didn’t think it would be this bad!! Is it time to put in Redman or Shockley? Just to see if we can get anything going?

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

You know, I wondered about that, too, DeathFromAbove. But Jason Elam has a bad hip and can’t kick from long distance, and Mike Smith is a field-position coach. And the Falcons just did force a three-and-out and will get the ball back two minutes before the half.

And Adam Jennings returned the punt to the TB 23. A chance here.

By GreatWhiteHope

September 14, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

White guys are better quarterbacks period. Matt remember white folks will forgive you foryour mistakes because after all…”if you are white you’re right”

Now complete some passes or give us a refund %$%#@@#$!!

By This Gets Old

September 14, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

It’s one half of the second game and it’s this negative? What’s Tampa proving by being ahead of a rookie QB?

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

MATTY ICE or MATTY LICE?

By stendec

September 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Ryan may be the dumbest SOB to ever play QB for Falcons. With predecessors like Miller, George and Vick that sure puts him in devious company. Gutless and talentless loser! F++K him and all the quitterws in red! May they lose by 40 plus!

By preston

September 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

well I will say that the play calling has been a little suspect today……..we should have at least attempted a run or a screen pass after Jennings nice return……but, I will take the 3 pts.

By edward

September 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

ok, maybe a bit premature to go to another qb, but only for a drive or two. Ryan has not seen this type of defense before in college!! I am glad we got some points out of this.

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Well, we won’t be shut out.

By BigBird

September 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Pressure??

Hummmmm…..seems like Ryan is pretty shaky when he is under pressure

still a good bargain for 72 million

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Well we’re on the board at least! :)

By This Gets Old

September 14, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

“Aaron Rodgers today, in his 2nd ever start in the NFL, went 24-38 for 328 yards and 3 TDs against the almighty Lions, who the Falcons defeated last week.”

How many years of practice in his offensive system did Aaron Rodgers have?

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

We just saw the ups and downs of a rookie quarterback: On one series Ryan got sacked, slung a weird-looking pass that was actually a lateral out of bounds for a loss of 11 yards and threw the ball away twice. On the other hand, he threw a nice post pattern to White to get the ball to the TB 7.

All this motion netted a field goal. Bucs lead 17-3 at the half. It could be better, sure, but it could also be a lot worse.

I don’t expect the Falcons to lift Ryan for a while yet, in case you’re wondering. He had a lousy half, but a lot of quarterbacks have lousy halves here.

By FILL IN THE BLANK

September 14, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

What an idiot Matt Ryan is… he is nothing but a “thug”. He is obviously dumb and lacks intelligence. Two interceptions in the first half? This guy cannot read defenses. It’s probably all that rap music he listens to.

Love

Mike Vick

By intellibird

September 14, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

I loved the Falcons with Vick and now I love the Falcons with Ryan. Who cares? I am a real fan. Mostly, I’ve learned to suffer with them. This team hasn’t done much since 1998.

By stringer63

September 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Our D is keeping us in it. Ryan needs to stay calm, and get the ball to the open guy - loosen up the TB D. Then look out for Turner.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

What the hell does “Matty Ice” even mean anyway? That’s probably the dumbest Atlanta-area nickname since “Frenchy”.

By BCS Slave

September 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

What…Ryan has thrown ten passes? Obviously they are trying to run the ball. What are the running stats?

This is a new team with new offensive schemes. You know there were gonna be days like these.

Offensive line getting beat physically? That is not a surprise. They aren’t all that big are they?

By edward

September 14, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

The thing that kills me is that I have to watch it on the computer. I cannot even stream the audio from a station. Anyone know which station will carry them on the ‘net? I live in PITTSburgh,pa but am a Georgia boy.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

“How many years of practice in his offensive system did Aaron Rodgers have?”

A valid statement, but completely irrelevant to the point I was making, which is that all the f****** that Ryan received by posters on this blog after last week’s 161 yard, 1 TD performance was pretty undeserved considering the caliber of opponent he was facing.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

Oh my g—, anyone who tries to bring up Vick and/or make this a racial thing should be ashamed of themselves.

A rookie QB against one of the premier DCs in the league, anyone reasonable had to expect he’d struggle today.

This has been comeback Sunday, let’s see what adjustments are made for the 2nd half.

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

At least we have “the face of the franchise”, too bad it’s the rear end :)

By BucInAtlanta

September 14, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

This isn’t the Lions, now you are playing the NFL South Champions. Thanks for letting Warrick come home. GO BUCS. On another not, GO USF BULLS.

By dave

September 14, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

i knew what i’d read before I got here, don’t know why i wasted my time.

By I don't know what bias means

September 14, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

I hate white people. Yay. I am a one trick pony. Anonymity is great. I can spew my hate and repeat my stupid diatribe all night! :) Ryan is a bust. All because he’s white. Shh don’t look at J Russell’s stats. By all means don’t look at what T Jackson did with the Vikes. We all know they are great. I don’t even live in Atlanta but feel like it is a good place to race bait! I am smart. You will witness this with my next inane post.

By ms

September 14, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

* Falcons Fans…………..We knew it would be tough in the Pirate Ship today. However I didn’t think we would look like the Lions of last week. Let’s give Matt a chance. He didn’t look comfortable until the very last series prior to the half. Hopefully we can come back in the second half and make a better showing and get a “W”. If not let get ready for next week against KC at the Dome! Go Birds*

By ha ha ha

September 14, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

He is what we thought he was. He had a decent game against the worst defense in the NFL and guys were ready to put him in the Hall of Fame around here. I could take Bradley and few of you guys on here and put up 30 against the Lions. Like I said last week can we at least wait till we face a good team before we act like we are super bowl contenders. Ryan has always looked like an average qb to me. The guy threw a lot of interceptions in a weak ACC last year but somehow the so called experts tried to justify it. The guy has a decent arm, not very accurate, and throws many interceptions. He is Joey Harrington Jr.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Apparently the AJC filter no longer lets me type the word f3llatio…

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

STENDEC you sound like a man who is losing a lot of money on the birds today…LOL

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

I still believe that, with a few exceptions, the best q-backs are the ones who sit and watch for a couple of years.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Ryan’s halftime numbers: 3 for 15 for 36 yards, one sack, two interceptions, a rating of 0.0. (Same as Chris Redman’s for the whole game last December. So, bad as it is, it isn’t like it hasn’t happened before.)

By Dion

September 14, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark it’s early in the 2nd half, what’s your prediction of the game?? I say Bucs 27 / Falcons 20.

By Falcons610

September 14, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

All of you negatives on there are pathetic. Yes if you are a real fan of a team you stick with them no matter what THE REAL FALCONS… Get off the board if you don’t like the Falcons and aren’t a real fan.

By the way, I can compare stats from a rookie to veteran because the stat I used was when they were both rookies you moron.

I am sticking with Falcons.

GOOO FALCONS!!!!!!!

By Falcons are Losers

September 14, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

I am thinking of changing my handle to ‘Falcons are STILL LOSERS’. Well, you have the leader you wanted. 3 for 15 with 2 interceptions. That ‘boy’ can throw.
We know what to expect from Atlanta; more of the same.

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

Well-said Najeh Davenpoop. I too find it amazing that the folks who got carried away last week in crowning Ryan “our best QB in years,” are stocked with excuses for him this week. That’s why they should’ve been mindful to not get so carried away. Like I said last week, their mouths were writing checks that Ryan might not be able to cash.

By BucInAtlanta

September 14, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Prediction:

Bucs 34 Birds 6

You read it here first folks. lol

By BCS Slave

September 14, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

poop,

It’s kinda tough to judge Ryan based on the caliber of the opponent alone. I mean…look at the caliber of the team around him. If the O Line can’t protect, Ryan is going to be rushed and he will misfire. Receivers have to get open, the O Line must open holes for Turner. Until we get an O Line, it’s going to be tough to judge Ryan during games.

Nothing he’s done changes my opinion of him. Ryan is a promising rookie who will have a bad day from time to time. He is learning the ropes and it might help him if we are patient with him.

By Dion

September 14, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Today is a good test for Ryan, he will settle down this half and make a good showing!

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 14, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

“Oh my g—, anyone who tries to bring up Vick and/or make this a racial thing should be ashamed of themselves.”

Agreed on the racial part, but considering that Ryan has been given $72 million before his first NFL game and has been anointed by fans and media alike as the savior of this franchise, I think it is perfectly valid to compare him to Vick. Not to Vick’s entire resume, but to the Vick making his first start of his NFL career in 2002, when he threw for more yards, ran for more yards, and accounted for more points than Ryan did last week — all while playing on the road against a better defense.

And I realize Vick wasn’t a rookie when he made his first NFL start, but he also had half the college experience of Ryan before entering the NFL.

Just to clarify, I don’t hate Ryan or wish that he doesn’t succeed, like certain other people posting on this blog. I just think the Falcons’ organization is too f-cked up to ever build a consistent winner, and just like Vick before him, Ryan will be a victim of the Falcons’ organizational incompetence. The difference is, while Vick was a transcendental talent who was able to cancel out the stupidity of his team to an extent — enough to bring them to the NFC championship game — Ryan is just a good player. Not great, not transcendental, not once-in-a-lifetime, just good. And when you are trying to rebuild a team, and you don’t have any proven offensive linemen, to draft a merely good QB with the #3 overall pick and give him such limited help along the line and at the receiver position is straight up irresponsible.

The smart thing to do would have been to trade down, pick up extra picks, draft plenty of offensive linemen, and sign more linemen in free agency, so that by next year’s draft when the Falcons traded up to draft Matthew Stafford they would have an established line that would allow Stafford plenty of room to develop into the best player he could be.

But since Arthur Blank values selling tickets more than winning games in the long term, he has lost fans like me.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

QBs who started and lost big their 1st year include Aikman (1-15) and P Manning (3-13), seems to me they’ve both turned out ok…

By igotxx3

September 14, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

lol am i the only one who heard a player sayng “ahhh sh*t” like 3 times in a row

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Dion, you’re more optimistic than I am. I’ll say Bucs 23, Falcons 10.

Just for fun, I looked up Michael Vick’s stats in his first start here: 12 for 25 for 125 yards, one touchdown, one interception, one sack. Not as bad as Ryan’s day has been, but let’s remember Vick’s first start in TB came in his second season. (Actually, it came the week after his famous OT game in Minnesota.) The Falcons lost 34-10 to the Bucs that day.

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

KEN STRICKLAND - Where are you with your expert analysis :)

By The Original (and former) Falcon4Life

September 14, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

All stats aside, Ryan’s strong points are supposed to be that he is smart, poised and accurate under pressure. None of which are evident today or in the preseason game against the Ravens. The Falcons paid $72 million for the next Joey Harrington.

There is nothing poised about throwing a lateral into the ground 5 yards from your feet when faced with a semblance of a rush. This guy is the face of the franchise and he would be perfect if this was the WWE. You can’t script success stories in the NFL, no matter how hard the owner, GM and suburban fans try. You have to give it to “Matty Ice” though…he pulled off the biggest con of the decade…..LOL!!!!

By stendec

September 14, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

I am sick to death of watching Keith “No Tackle” Brooking and Roddy “Another Drop” White. Deal both these worthless talentless B++++++S! Falcon defense hopeless but offense even F+++++G worse! Falcon return game a pitiful joke! Players have quit in second game! What does that say for rest of bouts on schedule?

By Falcons610

September 14, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Thanks Bradley for that stat to calm these negatives up a little bit.

Peyton Manning had 29 INT’s his first year.

Not to mention Ryan has never seen a cover 2 D like Tampa has. He will settle down and learn a little, we will be fine. I wasn’t expecting to win this game at all.

GOO FALCONS.

By preston

September 14, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

bradley……you know that you are opening up the flood gates with bringing up Vick, whom I think was a very good and exciting QB for the falcons, but I think that it is time for us all to let it go……..whether we were for him or against him.

By TEAMPLAYER

September 14, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Look at N.E. getting beat…I guess that camera is really missed…..

By ms

September 14, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Go FALCONS……GO FALCONS……..GO FALCONS

By Rutuger

September 14, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

I thought I’d check in and see what people had to say about the game, but the second I saw “Vick” I realized there are still plenty of morons hovering around… and I’m gone!!

GO FALCONS

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

Looks like Ryan is a rookie after all. I keep looking at his eyes. He looks a little lost, intimidated and unsure. I’m actually glad. If he had another easy game against an easy opponent he might start thinking that this is easy. Playing QB in the NFL is not. I know that this is the understatement of the year but he wouldnt have the opportunity to push through an early challenge if he had another easy opponent. The guy is a talent. How much of one? We won’t know for several years. But battling against a solid defense, making mistakes and pushing through is what he needs. BTW, he just made two solid passes. The 2nd may have fallen short of the first down but he is fighting standing up.

By edward

September 14, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

And who would have been our qb this year??? It sounds great and all stocking and waiting, but there still is a season to be played and personally, I been through too many losing Atlanta seasons. That’s with ALL the Atlanta teams. I realize the Braves won through the 90’s, but I have been a fan since 1978 so trust me, I know losing.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

OMG, why is the convicted jailbird even being discussed, he is NOT part of the Falcons anymore and there’s a decent chance you’ll never even see him in the NFL again…

By BCS Slave

September 14, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

This is how bad the OFFENSIVE TEAM is playing. Turner has 12 rushes for 38 yards. Sounds like the O Line is playing like crap.

What’s your assessment of the line?

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Falcons610, aaaaah namecalling…so intelligent….such a bailout.

Anyway, it’s hilarious that you take Ryan’s one good game & use it for the comparison. Talk to me again when you can compare their rookie seasons.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Not to go all Pollyanna on you, but Ryan is settling into the game. It might be too late, but he’s not nearly as wild with his passes this half. He just completed a nice sideline throw to White for a first down (after official review).

And he just converted another third down, this one to Laurent Robinson.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

For the record, Vick didn’t even finish the $#@$@! game the first time he faced the Tampa D, I was there at the Dome for that beatdown.

By Jay Black

September 14, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Where’s the arm strength?!?!

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Think we can borrow some of the $72 million back from Ryan & buy him some arm strength?

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

i’m late to this blog…why is anyone talking about Vick? he left on his own. no one could have saved mike except for mike. now that he is gone we have chosen a new QB. vick was an unbelievably talented athlete. but defenses figured him out. he didn’t have the ability to change the way he played and most likely wouldn’t have taken us all the way. it will take the birds a few years but we will build a winner. the team of dimitrof and smith know what they are doing. as i type…solid drive going on.

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Wow, looks like the receivers are coming to Ryan’s rescue…I’ll take it.

By edward

September 14, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

That was nice but kinda left me empty with just a FG. Anything is better than nothing and GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By falconsfan in KC

September 14, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

ok really! these penalties are getting ridiculous. how about a little discipline out there? at least ryan is starting to finally find a groove and so has our defense. go falcons!

By falcon59

September 14, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Yes, Ryan has struggled but the play calling is very questionable at best. Not using Turner more I don’t get it.

By Ted Striker

September 14, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Say what you will, the passing game kept that drive alive. Had the running game been working, 7 points rather than 3

By The Original (and former) Falcon4Life

September 14, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Mark,

He is not completing passes as much as his receivers are catching errant passes. The WR’s will be able to work as contortionist with the Cirque Soliea(?) during the offseason after today. Ryan is not poised, accurate and smart as the Falcons brass likes to perpetuate. He looks like a guy that can’t read defenses within the normally allotted 3 seconds…same old Falcons, same old excuses…LOL

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Nice drive by the Falcons, Ryan making his best throws of the day. From their 16 to the TB 6, the drive ending with Norwood being tripped up on third-and-3 by Tanard Jackson. (Not a bad call, just a better play by Jackson.)

Bucs lead 17-6, 1:03 left in the quarter. Being held to a field goal hurts, but it does show the Falcons aren’t giving up on this game. I don’t want to say they have a great chance, but they’re still in this one.

By falconsfan in KC

September 14, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

ok really! these penalties are getting ridiculous. how about a little discipline out there? at least ryan is starting to finally find a groove and so has our defense. go falcons!

By stendec

September 14, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

The Falcon coach is a F+++++G idiot! What better man to lead a team of talentless quitters? Settle for F+++++G field goals! Runner being tackled on third down was inexcusable. Right play called. Dunn would have scored! Falcon did not! Any comeback hopes reamed! Way to go losers! To Hell with them all!

By moving home to ATL soon :)

September 14, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

How’s ‘our’ supper QB pick doing today :) ??? Just like the republicans, you guys and teh falcon staff will continue top say Ryan is the $hit; we all knew it would be different with Tampa Bay. The worse is atill to come. This guy was and is still overated. If DJ was playing like this, the hook would have been reaching at him with the 1st INT

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

I don’t care what you people say - if he was a rookie then last week you should have not praised him like a veteran.

You placed him on this plateau, now deal with it. Plain and simple he sucks!

You are right “VICK” will and does not wantn to play for this sorry backwards city. You got your traditional drop back passer, so shut up with the excuses.

By Ted Striker

September 14, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Someone hasn’t had their Prozac today

By falcon50

September 14, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

our defense has absolutely nothing in the middle. Brooking is completely useless. Making Warrick look like Knowshon.

By Mike Vick Is In Jail

September 14, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

And will be for a lot longer. He will NEVER play in the NFL again. He can’t play in Canada because he is a Felon. Arena Bowl Dreams!

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, “Ryan making his best throws of the day.”

Not a good thing when your best throws of the day were only caught because your WR’s bailed you out.

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

to hell with them all? someone needs to get a life. the birds looked good on this drive. not great…but good. you are right mark, they haven’t given up on this game. they didn’t “settle” for a field goal. they took it. defense, until that 35 yard completion, has been playing well. you take the points and come back when you have a full quarter to play.

By The Original (and former) Falcon4Life

September 14, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Looks like Lawyer Milloy is headed to the unemployment line. Check out the picture of him telling Matty Ice waht a dumb @ss he is on the AJC sports website. Once these “fans” see that, they’ll be calling for Milloy’s head. You’re a goner, you thug!!!

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Big stop. John Abraham sacked Griese and forced a fumble in the red zone. Still 17-6, 11:36 to go.

I have to say I’m somewhat surprised and more than a little impressed. This one had 34-3 written all over it about an hour ago.

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

LOLOLOLOLOLOL!!! Now wait a minute!!! Just last week “Matty Ice” was the greates qb we ever had. Its no surprise to people who know football. Ryan just put his all into to deep throws in the 3rd qtr and they fluttered like some ducks,lol. Matty Ice will be exposed by week 6. Like I’ve always said……….No Vick = Losing Season. P.S. Your “all-pro” reciever White is back to his old self again, guess he can’t catch the soft and “accurate” passes from M.Ice,lol. He will now see what the great Mike Vick went through.

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

As bad as the birds are playing, TB may let them back in this one.

By Jamal who?

September 14, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Anyone seen Jamal Anderson?….Criticize Ryan all you want, but isn’t about time our 1st Rd draft pick from a year ago showed up and made a play.!!??

By lloydd

September 14, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

The face of the fracnchise looks like a deer in headlights

By stendec

September 14, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Falcon defense is worse than F+++++G bad! No pass rushers, no pass defenders, no heart, no pride, no desire, no guts and no hope! Of course, with a S++Thead like Keith “P***” Brooking calling the shots what can we expect? Put that former Yellow Jacket out to pasture. He may have had marginal talent at one time but no longer! A total liability! With new no-score offense only a solid defense will keep bouts from becoming complete blowouts!

By Unbiased_Blogger

September 14, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

DJ DJ DJ DJ DJ

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

i’m being impressed by Ryan. he has made some solid adjustments since the first half. and for “being bailed out by his receivers.” so what? that’s what a receiver is supposed to do.

By Wilson

September 14, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Keith Brooking is horrible, worse LB in NFL, those Lineman are having their way with him, too slow. TB is making WD look like an all-pro. Thanks for nothing, Keith. Please go play with someone else!

By Get that Canton Bust Ready

September 14, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

The average game saw Mike Vick complete 13.9 passes on 25.8 passes (50.3%) for 171.7 yards, 1.1 touchdowns, and 0.8 interceptions.

Never threw for 2500 yards in a season. Never threw more than 20 TD’s

Wow. Stellar.

By Wilson

September 14, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Keith Brooking is horrible, worse LB in NFL, those Lineman are having their way with him, too slow. TB is making WD look like an all-pro. Thanks for nothing, Keith. Please go play with someone else!

By The Original (and former) Falcon4Life

September 14, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

Looks like Lawyer Milloy is headed to the unemployment line. Check out the picture of him telling Matty Ice waht a dumb @ss he is on the AJC sports website. Once these “fans” see that, they’ll be calling for Milloy’s head. You’re a goner, you thug!!!

By igotxx3

September 14, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

whats number 71 name for the falcons the DE…He plays better then jamal anderson

By Trailer Park Commission

September 14, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

By Mike Vick Is In Jail

September 14, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

And will be for a lot longer. He will NEVER play in the NFL again. He can’t play in Canada because he is a Felon. Arena Bowl Dreams!

If your trailer came equipt with cable you would know that the new league “UFL” it’s commissioner has already stated that Mike Vick would be heading up their league, so he does not want or need to come back to this “loserville” town.

Maybe you should subscribe to cable :)

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

DJ? I love the guy but haven’t seen where he is ready to start and win in the NFL. If he was, where are the trade offers and rumors?

By edward

September 14, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Nice drive it looks like. Finally getting it going. Now after we score, a quick stop would be nice…

By This Gets Old

September 14, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

“A valid statement, but completely irrelevant to the point I was making, which is that all the f** that Ryan received by posters on this blog after last week’s 161 yard, 1 TD performance was pretty undeserved considering the caliber of opponent he was facing”

Dude you’ve been here long enough to know that some people hated Vick from the jump off. Vick won some games here almost by himself. So yeah if he’d had a better team around him maybe things would have gone differently ON the field. Mike has nobody to blame for himself for everything else. And man you could be arguing with some 12 year old here. It ain’t worth the bother.

By lloydd

September 14, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

This will be the blueprint for other teams to follow

By travis

September 14, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

We still haven’t laid down and died yet. Period. We have a bright future ahead of us regardless!!!!!

By matty ice

September 14, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

dis be bubba from kansas. mv7 is doing ok.

i cornholed dat dogkilla today. he walking bowlegged now.

can’t wait to get my hands on sweaty matty ice. those baby blue eyes will look good in here.

I wanna be the first to push matty’s s** in.

By Todd Green

September 14, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan is and has always been overated, and there are 72 millions reasons why. about 100 ofd the reasons are being exposed in this game. Most of you are just like the republicans when speaking of sarah P{alin; you will say anything, regardless of the facts or how it sound to justify what you want. Put lipstick on Matt ryan and he will still be the same old QB, over rated.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

You losers who are still talking about Vick make me ill…note that while you were so busy worshipping him he was off in Va fighting dogs, not trying to become the elite QB you all promoted him as…

Anyway, he’s GONE, move ON, my goodness!

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

Ryan and the team look a lot better in the second half. Considering all the new stuff (coaches, schemes, players, etc) we can’t be too critical of them. To expect too much so soon is irrational. I believe they are a much improved group and the future will be a lot brighter for us all.

By Jt

September 14, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

U bloggers are so full of crap!!!! You cannot even watch a game objectively. No one takes you seriously!

By Mark

September 14, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

Mike Smith is quite a coach. The right challenge and he made the referees get it right! He knows the game.

By Trailer Park Commission

September 14, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

MIKE VICK SUPPORTER - You know these haters have all the excuses.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

You people who want Matt to fail REALLY need to stop referring to yourself as Falcons fans, why don’t you back to the 49ers or Cowboys k?

By welikebaseball2

September 14, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

igotxx3, that’s the rookie Biermann. He’s been bringing it since the preseason.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

Another nice drive, fueled by a really strange play. Ryan hit White, who fumbled. Sabby Piscitelli recovered for the Bucs and went temporarily insane, seeking to lateral and succeeding only in turning a game-clinching turnover into the Falcons’ ball beyond midfield.

Ryan then hit Robinson for 23 yards and found Harry Douglas for 13 to the TB 6. Not over by any means.

By Todd Green

September 14, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

john koncack / matt ryan, same difference… over paid with no real talent. Atlanta keep giving thse less than average white guys all this money

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Deathfromabove YOU have talked about Vick about TEN TIMES TODAY Why dont YOU MOVE ON

By edward

September 14, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

well, least we get to see what Ryan can do with only a few minutes left. That was a nice drive but why didn’t we run it in?????????????? Isn’t that what we got Turner for! We just basically gave up the game right there

By Jamal who?

September 14, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Inside the 5 yrd line and Turner doesn’t even touch the ball!!@@@>??????????….fantatstic play calling, bravo

By lloydd

September 14, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Making Alot of Terrible Throws..

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

A weird first-down play at the TB 4: Either it was a designed run for Ryan, which I can’t imagine, or a busted play. It wound up as a 3-yard loss, and the Falcons managed just another field goal. They’re within a touchdown and a 2-point conversion with 5:12 left, but they’ve left points on the table here in the second half.

By stendec

September 14, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

Kick another F+++++G field goal! Show some F+++++G balls! Somebody get Ryan some F+++++G contact lenses! Have to be blind to miss such wide open receiver waving arms in end zone! F++++G losers! To Hell with them!

By falcondawg

September 14, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

We’re taking them to school in the second half, just can’t score!!

By UFL

September 14, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Would be a good choice. Pretty well in line with his other solid decisions. And we know what a quality decision maker he has been If that league gets going maybe it will last 5 games. At least Vick will get some $ and be able to pay a fraction of what he owes helping our salary cap situation. The Cable analogy was awesome. You and your boy u_b share the same 6 IQ points I see.

By Brian

September 14, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

There has been some bad play calling near the goal line today. Ridiculous.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

Expectations for a rookie QB in the NFL must be low, even Peyton Manning was 3-13 his first year, Aikman was 1-15…and we all know what happened to Harrington, Akili Smith, Ryan Leaf, David Carr, Tim Couch, etc.

By Todd Green is a dumba!@

September 14, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

Yes, Atlanta is giving q white QB alot of money b/c the last time we gave a black QB alot of money he wound up in jail….and last I checked we are giving alot of money to our 1st rd draft pick from last year who hasn’t even recorded 1 single sack in his career and he has started every game…Jamal Anderson is the real bust, not Ryan

By BCS Slave

September 14, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

We don’t have the physical O Line to pound it on a goal line defense. On the goal line, Tampa stacks the line.

By Trailer Park Commission

September 14, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

LIGHTS OUT ————- THE FAT LADY HAS SANG :)

By edward

September 14, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Passing from the 5. I bet Turner is asking why he signed here. The guy is the biggest back we’ve had in a couple years and he doesn’t get a touch. Amazing. Guess that is a rookie coach mistake. Should have just pounded the ball all 4 downs. Well, that just it a moot point…

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Well I thought we had a chance, oops!

By igotxx3

September 14, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

jamal anderson has to make that tackle

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Falcons getting their asses kicked, just like i predicted

By stendec

September 14, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Keith Brooking defense looked GREAT on that 68-yard Buc scoring run did it not? B++++++S gave up! SOBs! C++Ksucking quitters. May they roast in Hell! All of them! Arthur Blank included! How about 1-15? Only with a Helluva lot of luck!

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Over now. Earnest Graham just ran a cutback 68 yards to score. Jamaal Anderson got shoved inside and couldn’t close down the corner.

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

that run was a dagger but we have held tough most of the game. not sure about the play calling but if a play works we all love it. if it doesn’t we hate it. bottom line, the coaches see things we don’t. i hate to get the loss but am happy that we hung in there against a solid team. ryan wasn’t great but he seemed to get better during the 2nd half. one of the biggest things i liked was that he didn’t force the ball. getting out of the pocket and throwing it away several times were good decisions.

By falcon59

September 14, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

Please for God’s sake cut that useless Brooking tomorrow and let some young guy have it cause they could not be any worse. Also, the play calling, offensive, defensive schemes are a joke. Welcome to the Atl Falcons Mike Smith. AKA losersville!!!!

By lloydd

September 14, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

You must admit Ryan has a weak arm and he’s starting to look like Joey

By Jamal who?

September 14, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

Anyone see Anderson’s attempt to tackle Graham on that TD….what a joke, thats the real 1st Rd bust on this team…its real easy to bust on the QB, and I don’t expect the hacks on this blog to have the knowlege and insight to realize how truly pythetic Anderson is…instead just keep bustin Ryan b/c he is white and wishing for the return of Vick…LOL

By D. Bell

September 14, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

What happened to running the damn ball? You can’t wear down a defense against the run by throwing every friggin play.

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan sure looked good today……………lol

By jerry

September 14, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Thanks for the in game BLOG. Living in the Northeast, I don’t get to see the Falcons, so between the blog and ESPN game tracker, I can keep up with the Falcons.

They played well today for such a young team, but TB is a tough team. I think the team will get better as the season progresses, and make Atlanta proud!

Go FALCONS!!!!

By jerry

September 14, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Thanks for the in game BLOG. Living in the Northeast, I don’t get to see the Falcons, so between the blog and ESPN game tracker, I can keep up with the Falcons.

They played well today for such a young team, but TB is a tough team. I think the team will get better as the season progresses, and make Atlanta proud!

Go FALCONS!!!!

By The REAL Falcons

September 14, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Bottom Line: Ryan will be an adequate QB by his third year. He will never be great. He will always be VERY RICH…

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Not to say I told you so, but here’s what I predicted in my week-by-week look at the Falcons season: Bucs 21, Falcons 10, Ryan going 9-for-22 with three interceptions.

Actually he’s 13 for 33 with two.

By James Crumbley

September 14, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

someone made a great point about the O line at the goal line. we don’t yet have the beef to pound it in when the D line is stacked. give us time. ryan hung in there after being hit hard several times. he may or may not be worth $72M but, then again, who is? he will win in this league.

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Um with 3 mins on the clock you can’t run your way back from a two score deficit…

By travis

September 14, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

J Anderson sucks beyond comparison, he let Graham get loose when we needed the stop in the 4th quarter (no sacks either in more than 1 year) Keith Brooking is the most overrated player in the history of all sports (in all of human existence actually)! Why was he kept when all the other overrated vets were cut??? I’m just glad that McKay isnt drafting anymore!! No more Andersons and no more VT clowns!!!!

By falcon59

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

Poor Matt Ryan. Welcome to the great tradition of being an Atlanta QB. I really do feel sorry for him. Hope his Blue Cross Blue Shield is paid up.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

I know you’re disappointed — those of you who actually root for the Falcons, anyway — but I wouldn’t get too despondent over this one. I credit them for hanging around. I credit Ryan for not letting a bad day go totally wretched. The Falcons took the game to the Bucs in the second half, which says something.

Headed downstairs now. I’ll let you know if they cut Keith Brooking after the game. (Hey, it’s a joke!)

By kreese31

September 14, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Well, well, well!!! will the real Matt Ryan Please stink up the place!!!! did u ll C your QB of the Future, OH MY GOD!!! MV7 NEVER looked that bad against TB NEVER!!!! 13-33, 160 2ints and he looked bad doing it. Balls were waaaayy overthrown!!!! MATT RYAN is a BUM

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

matt ryan: 13-33 158 yds 40% pass completion, 27.1 passer rating, 0 td 2 INT’s There’s your future right there. Joey Harrington 2.0

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

matt ryan: 13-33 158 yds 40% pass completion, 27.1 passer rating, 0 td 2 INT’s There’s your future right there. Joey Harrington 2.0. And you people said Vick was bad.

By "Todd Green is a dumba!@" is a dumb@ss

September 14, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Wow, Todd Green is a dumba!@”. Did you think that by saying J. Anderson is a bust that we would argue against you just because he is of a different skin tone? Bet you did. Well, I happen to agree with you…so far, JA has not proven himself not to be a bust. He however wasn’t given the ALL-TIME highest rookie contract in history. That was the bust that is “Matty Ice”…they’re both POS as far as I’m concerned. Some don’t support JA just cause he’s black and some don’t dislike Matty because he’s white. Some don’t like him because he’s an overpaid under-talented face of the franchise. Not as simple as your simple mind would make it.

By This Gets Old

September 14, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Maybe one day the Falcons will have real fans. You knew this was a rebuilding year, you know that the coaching staff is new so on and so on but everybody shows up here to tell each other what a*******es we all are.

By stendec

September 14, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Same worthless Falcons! Always have been, always will be! No pride whatsoever! Keith “No Tackle” Btooking MUST go! Roddy “Another Drop” Whate MUST go! Hell, ship entire team! Who needs talentless quitters? Led by Arthur “My Mind Is A” Blank! To Hell with them all! Amen.

By jeanE

September 14, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

I am so angry, Finn doesn’t play for 2 years & then he makes the team but never plays except special teams!! It’s not like they were so far ahead they couldn’t use his help, what’s up with that? What do you have against him Mularkey???? Why are you going for the enzone on 3rd & 3?? I knew it would be a tough day for Ryan & it was. His eyes looked a little crazed, welcome to the NFL jungle, kid. Couldn’t find the enzone with a map, I say why not put Finn in, he has flypaper hands & he’s a savvy wily veteran, come on, give him a chance for God’s sake!!! I am thrilled for Warrick, he showed he’s still got a few moves & some gas left in the tank. Which is more than I can say for Keith Brooking or the always MIA Jamaal Anderson. I would’ve played Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese wasn’t any great shakes. If they don’t give Finn a chance, I am not going to any games this year. Ryan hasn’t showed anything, where’s all that cool under pressure, he looked like Doug Johson, Mr. Deer in the headlights out there.

By James Munson

September 14, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

First of all, Anderson is a “Petrino project”, a kid he picked last year who is as of right now a bust. I wouldnt say Ryan has a weak arm, but on some replays, it looked as if the ball was slipping out of his hand. I give him credit for fighting back, but they need to work on redzone offense.

By George

September 14, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

Love the Falcons. Hate the racist bloggers. I don’t know why I keep seeing crap about Vick on here. NEWSFLASH - Vick is in jail! That said, Matt Ryan had a rough game as all rookies are expected to have especially against a Monte Kiffen defense. Hopefully, Baker will be good to go next week and we need grady Jackson back on the line. I’m on board with these birds as I’ve been since the 70’s. Now if we can only draft some new fans…

By kreese31

September 14, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

There r no excuses to give, Matt Ryan was exposed today, I dont care that he is a rookie. he was scared, and unpoised, u could c it in his eyes!!! All of you punk want to give hima an excuse, well you didn’t give MV7 one, so why does Matt Ryan deseve one? he doesn’t!!! mot of youall want to blame the team and the coach, but last week all I heard was how Matt Ryan Flourished in his firt start!!! well he stunk it up in his second one, don’t try to downplay it or anything of the sort, He Sucks!!!!

By George

September 14, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Love the Falcons. Hate the racist bloggers. I don’t know why I keep seeing crap about Vick on here. NEWSFLASH - Vick is in jail! That said, Matt Ryan had a rough game as all rookies are expected to have especially against a Monte Kiffen defense. Hopefully, Baker will be good to go next week and we need grady Jackson back on the line. I’m on board with these birds as I’ve been since the 70’s. Now if we can only draft some new fans…

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan = Losing Season(s)

By Bucfan

September 14, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Don’t be too hard on Ryan, Monte Kiffin defences have made life real hard on rookie QBs for a long time.

By wompuscat

September 14, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Falcons looked pretty good in the second half, but were just not up to the task today. Since I only watch and not listen to the games, how may poor grammar errors did the commentators make? And I thought that diagraming sentences was a waste of time!

By The Grinch

September 14, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Given the circumstances, I thought they did pretty well. Losing the starting LT from an already “suspect” line and falling behind early to an excellent defense they could have easily folded up and gone home. They hung in there though, and showed some grit. It’s a loss to build from. I thought kicking that last FG was an incredibly timid call considering we were inside their 10 and had all sorts of momentum; worst case scenario (losing 17-6) instead of 17-9 is not appreciably different and going for it not only puts you in the game but shows some confidence in your offense. Plus they would have been pinned inside their 10 if we didn’t make it. Bad call from just about every angle; it didn’t even cover the spread. But Rookie coaches have ups and downs too. It’ll get better.

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan deserves to be criticized just like ya’ll did Vick. Ryan straight up SUCKED and he was SCARED. You could see it in his eyes, and those deep passes he threw were AWFUL. Take that Atlanta Fans, I told you to wait until he plays a real NFL Defense. I was right. He doesn’t have the arm strength. Yes!!! I love it

By DeathFromAbove

September 14, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

“Vick supporter” newsflash: he’s no longer a Falcon so why are you still here bothering us? Why don’t you save up some $$ and take the GreyHound to Leavenworth?

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

DeathFromAbove, Matt Ryan Sucks. thats my point. Vick does no suck, ON THE FIELD.

By saint

September 14, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

The positive is that the Falcons tried, and didn’t give up. The NFL should fine these helmet-to-the-head tackling of the QB, a 15 yd penalty is not bothering them at all. Ryan should have had a concussion as he got at least 3 helmet hits to the head. He hung in there, but had all kinds of trouble finding his receivers, throwing was not on-target at all. The Bucs line must be good, or else Turner’s legs were still tired fromm last week. I am more convinced that Norwood goes down too easily. He does have a good average, but I would rather have 5 yds per carry consistently rather than an occasional 20 yd-er. Anderson is easy on the offense, and is always a step and a half late. Thanks for Abraham. The Falcons secondary is in dire need of help. At least Mike Smith knows what’s going on, with the correction of the fumble-lateral play, so maybe he can trade for Graham, or some similar running back, and let Norwood stay on kickoffs and special teams. How about Dunn?

By Bryant

September 14, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

Whoever said something about us drafting some real fans was right on the money. Anyway, I’m not terribly disappointed by this loss because Tampa has always had a good defense and given us fits over the last few seasons. Ryan had a terrible start to the game, but I give him credit for hanging in there and taking his lumps. There were some suspect throws that had me scratching my head at times, but I expect those to be corrected as time goes on.

I expect our team to make the necessary adjustments during the week, then go out and beat the breaks off of Kansas City on Sunday. This team still has a long road to travel before they’re competing for a playoff spot or a championship, but I like the direction we’re headed. Real Falcons fans, continue to support the team. Bandwagon jumpers, get the hell on.

By Mark Bradley

September 14, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

A couple of things: The weird call on first-and-goal from the 4 was, according to Mike Smith, a run-pass option. According to Matt Ryan, it was a quarterback draw. Either way, it was odd.

And the reason Michael Turner didn’t carry the ball inside the 5 was that he’d tweaked his ankle in the first half.

My take on Ryan: He suffered through his welcome-to-the-NFL moment but didn’t throw an interception after the first 20 minutes and hung in against a fierce rush from a proud opponent. He wasn’t very good, and he admitted as much. But he’ll get better. Nothing I saw today changes my mind about him in the least.

By ha ha ha

September 14, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Ohhh so now its the o lines fault, defenses fault, and the coaches fault the qb struggled? Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha. Yea yea yea. The guy is the next Joey Harrington. His arm is weaker than I thought. Why is Brooking on this team? The guy sucks. Anderson is a bust. The kid gets absolutely no pressure on the qb. Well they should beat the Chiefs next week.

By Ricknole

September 14, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Why are there still Vick fans posting on here? He hasnt played on this team in 2 seasons. Get the F- over it. Matt took his lumps today, but he hung in there. I expect a win in the Dome. How many times the Vick lose against Tampa??

And yes I am black!

By YAD

September 14, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Apparently, all of the pro-Vick, anti-Ryan posters forget how terrible The Tampa Bay defense made Vick look.

p.s. The only thing worse than a Falcons blog is a Bulldogs blog. It’s just a game. Grow the f **k up!

By Orlando

September 14, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Just like the Bulldogs yesterday, Atlanta got hit in the mouth early, yet still kept the game close. Unfortunately though when the defense needed to stop TB on the run, they failed.

I believe Jamaal Anderson will be released by the end of the year. He has proven that he is not going to be a force on the defense at all. Not having Grady Jackson hurt when they needed to stop the run.

As for Ryan, gee, you f*cking idiots thought he was going to throw for 300 yards and 5 TDs each game? He got the wake up call he needed, and now the question becomes how will he respond next week against KC.

Once Atlanta beats KC next week I wonder how many of you will jump back on the bandwagon.

By James

September 14, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Yes, Ryan played poorly in the 1st half. Those 2 picks led to 10 points for Tampa. But you have to give him credit for not folding. He kept battling and didn’t quit. He showed heart and tenacity. He played better in the 2nd half. I thought the defense should have been going with run blitzes when Tampa got the ball back and it was 17-9. Graham wouldn’t have scored if we had been run blitzing. Vick supporters- it’s time to move on. Vick had his opportunity and squandered it plain and simple. Vick had his shot and Ryan’s getting his now!!!!!!!!!!

By boxer99

September 14, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

I love all these loser falcon fans who get down so quickly on thier QB. Hello the guy is a rookie what do you expect? Give him some time to develop. Guess what ghetto Mike Concick is not coming back, get it through your small brains. Especially “Unbiased Blogger” where are you from The bluffs? that figures supporting the ghetto fabulous Convick because you have a lot in common with him. I hope convick never plays a another down in the NFL, and if he does I hope his legs get broken on the first play. all I have to say is Matt Ryan is white and its right for QB. You think Vick was a good leader, go down to Tennesee and see what they are going through. Vince Young is Pathetic. Vick wasnt much better.

By boxer99

September 14, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

All the Vick supporters need to go pound sand. The guy is gone, get it. “Vick supporter” you need to get a life. If you like the guy so much go visit him in the can. Maybe you can bring him some twinkies to eat. You might want to bring some for big bubba. “Vick supporter” you are truly a collossal Moron for your mentality and your comments you post. You and Unbiased blogger need to go the big house and visit convick. Ask him if his a* is sore.

By NCFalconFan

September 14, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

I am still very impressed with Ryan. He’s tough and he got it together in the 2nd half, although it was a little late.

Jamaal Anderson needs to go NOW. What is he doing? Is he in any danger losing his starting position?

By Kevin B

September 14, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

I just hope the Bucs get fined for the two helmet to helmet hits they smacked Ryan with!

By HJones

September 14, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

WHAT A SORRY UNPROFESSIONAL BROADCAST BY FOX. I HAVE NEVER THE START OF SO MANY PLAYS MISSED. IN FACT, ONE ENTIRE PLAY WAS MISSED WHILE THE CAMERA WAS SHOWING SOMEONE ON THE SIDELINE. FOX HAS TOO MUCH MOVEMENT WITH THE CAMERA AND JUMPING FROM VIEW TO VIEW.

By Len

September 14, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

The ‘coons were picked to go 1-15, WTF were you morons expecting? They hung, did better than I expected considering the way it started. Bottom line, rookie QB, rookie coach, rookie LT, you are not going to win many.

Vick? The man had a 100mil contract and funded a dogfighting empire, how f*g stupid can one be? I am glad he is gone, he peaked anyway.

By Len

September 14, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

The ‘coons were picked to go 1-15, WTF were you morons expecting? They hung, did better than I expected considering the way it started. Bottom line, rookie QB, rookie coach, rookie LT, you are not going to win many.

Vick? The man had a 100mil contract and funded a dogfighting empire, how f*g stupid can one be? I am glad he is gone, he peaked anyway.

By jon

September 14, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

How many personal fouls did the Sucs have on Ryan, today? I recall seeing three, but I didn’t see the entire game.

The NFL should come down hard on the offending players and Chuckie. The Sucs are the dirtiest team in the NFL.

By bartonizer

September 14, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

It seems that many of the posters here don’t remember the Bucs defense vs. Vick. They almost always had his number, and his worst games, BY FAR, were against the Bucs. Give Ryan a break. He’s a rookie, and it takes a little time to get up to speed. They should focus on the run game, and build up his confidence with high percentage passes. He should be fine-this is supposed to be a rebuilding year, after all. Give him time!!

By Rod

September 14, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

I thought Matt Ryan was intangable and had the brain of a genius. What intangables made him throw the ball backwards to no one?

By hasavior

September 14, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

the game plan against tampa was way off que. as i have said in the previous blog, rushing the ball for 100+ yards everygame gives matt ryan more of a chance to decrease turnovers and make plays in the flats and peridocially down the field.

how the burner get only 14 touches? thats insaine. matt ryan at this point is a good player, at most, but the performance plays to cover his weaknesses is rated at best a C+

the defense gets weared down when 3 and outs occur back to back. tampa ran the ball until they broke wind. this should have been a running game for both teams.

bad game plan.

By Falcon Fan Forever

September 14, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

2-6 to start the season win 8 in a row to finish 10-6, remember my prediction. Win against Kansas City coming. Matt had a welcoming party how he comes back next each week after a learning experience like this one will show if he is Joey 2.0 or next Manning. As for Vick, I remember plenty of games past 3 seasons where he could get nothing done against Tampa (lets give the Bucs some credit for actually being good).

By hasavior

September 14, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

the game plan against tampa was way off que. as i have said in the previous blog, rushing the ball for 100+ yards everygame gives matt ryan more of a chance to decrease turnovers and make plays in the flats and peridocially down the field.

how the burner get only 14 touches? thats insaine. matt ryan at this point is a good player, at most, but the performance plays to cover his weaknesses is rated at best a C+

the defense gets weared down when 3 and outs occur back to back. tampa ran the ball until they broke wind. this should have been a running game for both teams.

bad game plan.

By Falcon Freddie

September 14, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley said ” HE (Matt Ryan) Didn’t thrown an interception after the first 20 minutes”. Mark, if you were watching the game, you would have noticed that he didn’t throw a TD either the entire 60 minutes. If Michael Vick had played that poorly, I think the lack of TDs, poor performance in the Red Zone, failure to capitalize on Tampa Bay’s errors would be brought out by these guys. The CHICKENS are coming home to roost, in this case its the Falcons. I will note that it’s apparent that Coach Smith is a big improvement over the no coaching Jim Mora Jr. and that college guy they had in there last year. Did anybody notice what Terry Bradshaw had to say about Matt Ryan’s performance at half time? This is the same Terry Bradshaw that was a constant critic of Michael Vick. I’ll put it in quotes, what he had to say…” “. Not a word!!! What a difference a QB makes! I’m not bashing Ryan, but there sure is a willingness to be patience with a QB now. What was Ryan’s QB Rating today???? I missed that being reported. It was always reported after a Vick loss.

By myconju

September 14, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Bartonizer, I’ve lived in Atlanta since 1977. Every year is a rebuilding year for the Falcons.

Matt Ryan stunked up the building today. He sucked! That is just it. As bad as Jamal Anderson appeared, Jonathan Babineaux was good. But in the final analyis…Matt Ryan is the leader of the team and I think that it is mighty stupid to pay a guy 72 mil to throw the ball away time after time. But let’s give him credit. After throwing his second interception, he made sure that he threw the rest of the balls out of reach.

Rookie or not, I expect more from a 72 million dollar man.

By Mike

September 14, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

They need to put matt on the bench.Marlarky made some good play calls but Ryan doesn’t have the accracy or the arm strenth to make some of the plays.Redmen or shocky probaly gives the falcons the best chance to win right now.The guy looked scared out there and he looks like he has no clue what to do.You can’t blame it on the o-line the wide receivers he lost the game for them.The defense kept them in the game for the most part they had a chance to when but Ryan does not have a clue what to do out there.

By TitansRgreat

September 14, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

here that sound Falcons fans? That’s the slap of reality the Bucs gave your team today. Go Titans!! 2-0!

By froggy

September 14, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Some Bucs are going to be writing some checks this week. I counted three helmet to helmets on Ryan today — and the Commish is pretty adamant those won’t go un-addressed on his watch. Let’s face it, the Bucs have been a dirty team for a long time (who could forget Sapp nearly ending Chad Clifton’s career with one of the cheapest shots in NFL history?)

Ryan stunk it up early, no doubt, but showed some moxie after getting repeatedly hammered, in the head and elsewhere. Probably the one aspect he and #7 are alike — they are both tough don’t fold after getting hammered. His deep throws did not look good, however, and clearly Kiffin gave him quite an education today. But, As Bradley says, not the first QB to have his head handed to him by Tampa’s defense.

Roddy reverted to his rookie self — not a good day for him. Laurent showed the coaches something today, as did Harry Douglas on that reverse. So, a few bright spots.

Brook is hopeless. His pass coverage is OK, but he can no longer play the run at all. That Warrick touch down was straight at him and they ate his lunch — as they did repeatedly all day. Jamaal is not quite as big a first round bust as Aundray Bruce (hey, remember him?), by all accounts he is a nice, high quality young guy, but he’s never going to have the fire and “want to” (just watch Abe play) needed to succeed at this level.

Not a great day, but we have all seen much, much worse from the Birds in the last 40-something years. Team played hard and together and didn’t quit (and, hey, it helped that Tampa’s QB situation is dreadful, Griese missed receivers all day). We may win 8 games if we’re really lucky, but to me there are a lot more positives than negatives with this group. We just need about three more strong Thos. D drafts to get where we need to be.

By VICK_HEX

September 14, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

So you fools are now confused. Don’t be - I have placed a hex on the Atlanta Falcons. You will never have a winning season until I lift the spell.

You though I was not smart enough to read defenses, but now you have a guy in college who was a 5th year senior and had 19 interceptions, yet you seem surprised by his results.

I may have not had the high quarterback ratings, but then again I didn’t have a good line, wide receivers and a 180-pound undersized running back, and until he came to this team while I was the starting quarterback, all of a sudden he became a 1,000 yard back, when at Tampa he only managed to get 700 yards in his best season.

There will be no more playoffs, going to greenbay in the snow and pulling off what the great pocket passers were not able to do.

By SeaMill

September 14, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

hey titansfan…I would be more more worried about your team than the Falcons…especially with that headcase Vince Young on your team.

By myconju

September 14, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

SeaMill, talking about head jobs. Matty Ice will be worrying about his head after that shot to the head off that Tampa Bay penalty.

Heads up folks! Tampa’s offense was horrid today. So all of that Matt coming back is fake. He didn’t come back, he just came out, but for 72 mil I’d come back out too.

By FalconMark

September 14, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Gee Whiz… I didn’t bother to read the whole blog. I get tired of reading comments from those who want instant gratification. We’re not the Cowboys or the Patriots or the Colts etc. I’m a realist. This is a new team with a rookie quarterback and a rookie coach that doesn’t have all the pieces in place and won’t for at least 2 years. I was quite proud of the way the Falcons hung in there. Ryan needed a game like this. In the NFL, you are either the team teaching or the team being taught. We did some learnin’ today. Don’t expect better than a 5-12 season. We’re 3 or 4 injuries away from worse. I love the coaching and the spirit this team showed today when they were clearly overmatched. Look for weekly improvement all across the board. That doesn’t translate to wins. We’re building character now. I saw a team today that never gave up. I saw a team that got beat by a mediocre Tampa Bay team. I enjoyed the game. I’ve been a Falcons fan since the 60’s. I believe this team with this coaching staff will be fine if we stay the course and endure days like today.

Keep believin’!

FalconMark

By FALCON FAN

September 14, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

The falcons showed a lot of heart today. I wanted them to win as much as anybody. The fact that most of Matty’s mistakes came early in the game shows that he adjusted to what tampa was doing. i’ll admit that we got outplayed, but I’ll bet matty can’t wait to play them again. I’m still very excited to have a team that plays with heart and doesn’t quit. Bring on Kansas City!

By BirdDawg

September 14, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Some of you people on here just need to get a fn life. Vick is gone and will never come back. He was exciting to watch while he was here, and now lets support the team we have. They will be lucky to win 6 games this year, but whats new there. If you are a true Falcons fan, you are used to that kind of season, and just hope for better times to come soon. I am not sure Ryan is the answer, but they are going to give him plenty of chances before we get to see DJ. We have the coach and GM to build a winning team. Please stop all of the VICK nonsence.

By Shawn dodson

September 14, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

First of all,until Mike is actually released from the team,he is still a Falcon.So the talk will and should still continue.I started rooting for the falcons in 2001 when they drafted the QB who put my college football team on the map.Mike is the most fascinating QB that ever played the game.The fact that some think he will never play in the NFL again is shocking to me.There’s players in NFL who has cause harm to fellow human being.Let’s please keep it in perspective!

By Vince

September 15, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

Reality Bites.

By tman

September 15, 2008 5:55 AM | Link to this

Welcome to the NFL Mr Ryan and it ain’t going to get any better.

By Vick Fans Suck

September 15, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this

I love how some are comparing the complaints about Mike Vick after he had SEVERAL YEARS to get better to a rookie who’s played in 2 NFL games. I don’t remember Vick being picked apart after his first two NFL games, some of you are just plain dumb and some of you are just racist who can’t stand that a white player replaced your hero.

By FalconFan

September 15, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

The Falcons will be fine, the Bucs were a team that the Falcons were not supposed to beat this year, as long as the team keeps moving forward and competes with teams they CAN beat (KC, Oakland, St. Louis and possibly Minn.) we have much to look forward to in the coming years. If the bandwagon gets lighter after this week that’s fine but I was satisfied with the coaching staff and the Falcons players who didn’t quit and who played hard until the end. We still have a lot to look forward to this season and the next few years as TD continues to build this team.

By North FLA Falcon

September 15, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

I had a problem with the play calling yesterday. The QB keepers that got nowhere. At one point we had 3rd and 15 and we run Turner on a DRAW. The weird “option” play that got nowhere. Maybe BC had good luck with that one but not against the Bucs defense. 3rd quarter, we had 3rd and 3 deep in their territory and we throw a fade to the endzone?? Incomplete, field goal, 17-6. Still down by 2 scores. STUPID. The announcers kept saying how Mularkey is known for his trick plays — well, heck, run one! Fake a punt or FG! You’re losing on the road, they are stuffing the run so do something different. Try a screen. Throw to the tight end. For awhile there I thought Leeman Bennett was calling the plays. They played hard and I’m proud of them, we will rebound. GO BIRDS.

By Cut Jamal Anderson Now

September 15, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

Forget about the progress report on Keith Brooking- how about our #1 draft pick Jamal “Haven’t smelled a sack” Anderson. He looked like he was bull fighting on Earnest Graham’s TD run. That bs can’t even be described as an arm tackle, it was more like he turned to jelly and whiffed. This guy is freakin’ pathetic- don’t we have someone else who is worthy of a shot behind him?

By birdy

September 15, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

To “Reality Check” and “Unbiased” and probably many other posters(I stopped reading after a while as I couldn’t take the ignorance any longer):

I can tell you never played the game. If you think one half of one game defines a career then you are a moron. Plain and simple. Ryan had a dismal first half, there is no way around that. But, he came back and made many good throws and cut out mistakes in the second half. Not sure if you realize that was the first road game of his career and that Tampa’s defense is going to make a lot of QB’s look like that this year. Unlike last week, the offensive line didn’t give him much help. They protected better in the 2nd half and Ryan played better. There is a direct corrolation.

Put me on record as guaranteeing a win for the Falcons next week. They’re going to be fine. The schedule is pretty favorable. I still see a .500 season as more than just a possibility.