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Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > November > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFalcons have the make of a good team
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This is no longer just a good story. What we’re watching is a good team. The Falcons need only to win the rest of their home games to finish 10-6, and 10-6 puts you in any playoff discussion any year. And how stout have they been at home?
They’ve played 240 minutes in the Georgia Dome this season. They’ve trailed for a total of 11 seconds, and those 11 — the time it took the Falcons to lose the Chicago game and then win it — are part of NFL history. This is a team that keeps tending to business with such dogged resolve that we are, believe it or not, coming to regard winning as business as usual.
“You keep hearing that Atlanta is going to fail at some point,” said Lawyer Milloy, the free safety, “but this is happening the right way.”
Here he smiled, and you should know that Milloy is stingy with his smiles. “Every year there’s a team that has you scratching your head, that you never saw coming. Why not us?”
It sounds silly until you watch this team play, but when you do you see no silliness about it. You see a team that comes to work, that hits really hard and plays really smart. On Sunday the Falcons took the ball from New Orleans on the first snap and saw the frazzled Saints use the last snap to cut their deficit to 14 points. In between the Falcons were dominant.
Forget total yardage, for it meant nothing. All that mattered was that the Falcons needed barely five minutes to score their first touchdown and Drew Brees, hailed as the NFL’s best player, required 50 minutes to get one for his team. All that mattered was that Brees threw 58 passes and accomplished less than the rookie Matt Ryan, who didn’t throw half so many.
“I liked the way we played,” said Mike Smith, the Falcons’ coach, and how could you not? There are no Glanvillian gimmicks in these Falcons, no Mora-like false chatter. This a simply a collection of proud pros — hey, even rookies can have pride — that has developed a sense of itself and has cottoned to its coaches.
Said Todd McClure, the center: “It’s about time everybody else started thinking we’re a good team.”
It is. It’s November, and by now any football flukes have begun to wilt. The Falcons are gathering strength. Maybe they surprised themselves back in September, but no more. They’ve played nine times and haven’t been routed yet. Why shouldn’t they expect to win?
“We’ve been very fortunate with our acquisitions,” said Thomas Dimitroff, the general manager, and never had those acquisitions stood out more than Sunday. Ryan worked another lovely game. Erik Coleman, a free agent, stole Brees’ first pass. Domonique Foxworth, acquired by trade, broke up three passes. And the third-rounder Chevis Jackson capped it all by scoring on a 95-yard interception return.
“I can’t stress this enough,” Dimitroff said, “but all our new guys are about the team. It’s not just about them.”
And we saw — or at least we thought we saw — a moment Sunday when Smith appeared to make the same point. Jerious Norwood had scored on a 67-yard yard catch-and-run. But, by breaking into high-step at the 27, he was nearly caught by Usama Young. Thus did it come as no shock that Smith waved the back over.
But not for a dressing-down. “I was just congratulating him,” Smith said. “I said, ‘Nice run, Jerious.’ “
Really? “Sometimes you’ve got to let them go,” said Smith, shrugging.
Then, reconsidering: “But we may talk about it Monday or Tuesday.”
Permalink | Comments (107) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL
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Comments
By Blank Gets No Pass
November 9, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
Blank doesn’t get a pass because he just now decided to build a team - he had no choice - it was this or sell.
By OldTimer
November 9, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
11-5
By Kevin
November 9, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
very good falcons are great home but need score when need not field goals u need score more…other wise if u were tied for wild card last spot n was even head to head. U need more points n other are less givin away.As for crowd very quiet again 64,364 there 11,000 no-show’s ashame atlanta i love go…and see full house now u sale out the SEC n peachbowl aka chic-fila bowl now of 75,344 for them..
By Baracked the Vote
November 9, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this
Bradless, The Braves will be in first place in June….GA will play for the Nat’l championship..all the Falcons have to do is win the rest of their home games….Please pass me what u are smoking.
By Mr. Plithers
November 9, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
I agree. Blank has this team on the right track with Coach Smith and the rookie sensation Ryan. As of now, I am officially on this bandwagon.
By savannah dawg
November 9, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
This is the first time in years that I really love watching the Falcons. They finally look like a real football team instead of a circus act. GO FALCONS!!!!!
By Woodall
November 9, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
Have you ever had this much fun watching the Falcons? Personally, I am having a blast this season. Good team, made up of good guys that deserve some of the breaks that they are getting. Atlanta owes some thanks to Blank and company.
By athensfalconfan
November 9, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
Baracked the Vote is still missing MV. Too bad. Open your eyes and enjoy what’s happening to the Falcons…they’re playing like a REAL team, thanks to the new GM, new Coaches, and some great players, both old and new to the team. It’s a shame you can’t embrace the special feeling this new Falcons team has given all of us. Man, let go of the past and join in celebrating a wonderful football team…TEAM. And, just for the record, the NFL doesn’t play for a national champonship, sport, that’s for college teams.
By Dave
November 9, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
I have lived in Atlanta for the past 10 years and this is the first time I have seen a football TEAM! This group is fun to watch and weather or not they make they make the playoffs they have nothing have had a successful season and I believe have finally turned the corner. I would bet that the Falcons will have consecutive seaons with more than 8 wins! Great job.
By Baracked the Vote
November 9, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
athensfalconfan Just for the record, I wrote, “GA will play for the Nat’l championship…” please notice the ellipsis. These were 3 separate predictions offered by Bradley. I have no problem with the new Falcons, just the morons who write for the AJC,sport.
By Rick
November 9, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
Blank does inded get a pass, who said that every owner gets it right from day one. The good owners put people in place to make the right decisions. It took Blank a few years and a few mistakes to get it right. And right it is, The Falcons are real.
By RichmondBridDawg
November 9, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
This started out asa nice surprise, and now this has turned into the best story of the season. I admit that I wanted Dorsey instead of Ryan. I am glad I am not GM. He is going to be great for years as will be the Falcons. Get us a few more pieces here and there, and we could be unstopable. Who would have thunk it 12 months ago when it was embarrasing to be a falcons fan. Go Birds and Dawgs!
By humble
November 9, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
WOW, i love watching this team. no matter the score i bever think wea are out of the game. i know everybody says it, but i have had season tickets for 9 years now. and although i loved the way vick played he is gone and matt ryan (MR2) is the real deal. not only that but this TEAM is the real deal. i am so happy with where we are and where we are going.
more than anything i am happy for arthur blank, with all that he has been through he deserves this more than anyone.
By Dr. Warren
November 9, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
The Falcons—and Dolphins, too, actually—are blowing the lid off an NFL secret: talented, principled management (including the coaches) and a handful of sharp personnel choices will flip a bad team’s fortunes faster than you can say Dimitroff. With the talent pool so even these days, even among many skilled positions, we shouldn’t be quite as shocked by such drastic turnarounds. Of course, that takes nothing away from these Falcons. I’ve been a fan since childhood in the mid-70s, and so far, this has to be one of the most satisfying seasons.
By GT_EE_Major_ClassOf87
November 9, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
I am still so mad about Coach Paul Johnson and Tech’s failure to clinch the ACC Coastal to truly enjoy this Falcon victory. I feel like Charlie Brown getting the balls pulled out by Lucy.
I put all my faith, efforts, and hundreds of dollars into GT football and to think now we won’t be playing for ACC Championship really puts a downer on the weekend, even if Matt Ryan did well.
Arthur Bank needs to take a long look at Michael Johnson, that boy is a freak and better than Glenn Dorsey.
By JD
November 9, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
Baracked the Vote….idiot. There’s more than just home games left. UGA in the Outback Bowl. Keep goin to the UGA games and gettin all the trash pregnant in your north GA suburbs. Go Jackets. Go Brooks County
By GT_EE_Major_ClassOf87
November 9, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
JD I have booked ticket for Boise - I can give you the scoop as I know I guy from there we’ve stayed with for Humanitarian Bowl.
We saw Reggie and Calvin snowmobiling, truly was a thrill to get out of Atlanta and someplace with snow for the bowl game.
By Say What?
November 9, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
Damn, people. This team was picked to go 1-15 in the preseason. They weren’t supposed to win 3 games, much less 6…or more. And yet your comments sound like some kind of condemnation, whether it’s for Arthur Blank or whomever. Get over it. Do you spend your whole life complaining and whining like a schoolgirl? This team is amazing. It’s PROFESSIONAL, from top to bottom. With another draft and some choice free agent acquisitions, the Falcons are Super Bowl-bound in the years to come. Mike Smith and Dimitroff have breathed new life into a corpse of a franchise. Sit back and enjoy the ride, instead of b*** about nothing.
By slick
November 9, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
Blank doesn’t get a pass? A pass for what? You act like he owes you something. I’m sorry. I didn’t realize Blank included some of your millions when he bought the team.
By Steve
November 9, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
Very good game, but I am getting concerned about our coaches downing the offense every time we get a lead.
We could have lost this game today had the Saints not blown a few plays. We were cruising in the game after Norwood’s TD, and then we took our foot off the gas. I understand the need to run the ball and control the clock, but we WERE controlling the clock just fine and still putting points on the board using our normal scheme. I agree with running it more, but stop putting Ryan in third and longs because we are so concerned about the clock that we are trying to run versus eight man fronts.
Our defense played very well for a second straight week. It would be easy to say they gave up a bunch of yards, but the reality is they held the Saints in check for the most part. Yards don’t mean much if the other team can’t finish the drive, and the Falcons have done well once the field shortens on both offense and defense this year.
The Iceman is picking apart defenses like I never imagined a QB in a Falcons uniform would be capable of in my lifetime. One year in and Dimitroff is looking like a genius. Too bad Baker got hurt, because with him Ryan and Chevis Jackson, Harry Douglas, and late round steal Kroy Biermann, this first draft might be the best in the NFL last year.
By Ted Striker
November 9, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
The state of affairs is summed up best by this single statement about the Falcons: “You see a team that comes to work.”
By GT Guy
November 9, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Now that the team is playing like a real NFL team can we do something about those hideous uniforms and silly falcon logo?
By Ramguy
November 9, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
The Falcons did a great job in today’s game . I’m not going to start thinking about placing an order for playoff tickets just yet but they did look like a professional team today. The new coach and GM has breathed a new life into the organization not to mention Matt Ryan. I know that it kills the MV fans that he’s doing so good.
By Mark Bradley
November 9, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
As you know, I thought Ryan was the right draft pick at the right time. I had no idea, however, that he’d be this good this fast. I wish I could say I did, but I’d be lying.
By Ricky
November 9, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
Great job Coach Smith and the falcons. Great job Mr. Blank and Mr Dinitroff, this team is fun to watch and they are playing as a team for the first time in a lot of years. Isn’t it amazing how much better these receivers are with a quarterback that can put the ball where it needs to be thrown. I am not bashing Vick but for years it was always the receivers weren’t good enough to have a passing game but the same receaivers are suddenly potent this season is it the coaching or the quarterback? Vick was a great athlete and really good for the falcons but he just never progressed as a passer.
By FreeMikeVick
November 9, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
I hate y’all!!!
By Milton Jeff
November 9, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
agreed. falcons have exceeded my expectations. remaining schedule easily looks 4/5 wins.
By Baracked the vote
November 9, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
JD you truly are a moron. i suppose reading comprehension is something that eludes u people down there. Yea, GA can play in the OUTHOUSE bowl..what a joke for a team that was supposed to challenge for the national championship..they won’t even make the SEC championship game.. AND again I was quoting Bradley, did u even read the article? by the way, I moved from GA years ago..got tired to looking at dumba$$es with feces for brains..stick to something u know..like banging your cow..Looking at the Census data, Brooks county has enough white trash to keep u busy for awhile
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
November 9, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
Mark, before the season began, you picked the Falcons to win six games. They’ve done that and I think they’ll win more. This is a good team and every week they get better. They are good enough to win the rest of their games.
By BCS Slave
November 9, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
I picked the Falcons to win five games this season, they have exceeded my expectations…not that I was doubting they would. What has impressed me is the way they’ve done it. They look like professionals. They aren’t winning with gimmicks. They are playing sound, confident football and look better every week.
By FalconTeamFan
November 9, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Ramguy, why did you feel compelled to throw MV into this? Believe it or not, some of us actually loved MV and still know how to love and root for the team lining up on Sunday without thinking about him. Stop trying to divide Falcon nation! We’re smart enough to know how to embrace the past and look forward to a different future. It ain’t that hard!
By Flustered Fan
November 9, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
The Atlanta Braves need to take notes on how the Falcons have done things by getting rid of dead wood. If only Bobby Cox would quit like Petrino did, then the Braves may have a chance.
By Mark Bradley
November 9, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
Actually, I picked the Falcons to go 5-11 and thought I was being optimistic. Which only goes to show that I’m not very good at being optimistic.
By rogerslb1234
November 9, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Wow - 11-5 suddenly seens conceivable. The schedule works farily well the rest of the year.
By RTW
November 9, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Just as exciting as the Vick years. Give this TEAM time and they will not disappoint. From the top-down, it looks like they know what they’re doing. Pretty impressive for a first year coach, staff, rookie QB, coupled with intelligent personnel moves. Like what I see. Playoffs would be great. We, the fans, deserve it. But the team deserves it more. W’s are what counts. We have 6 in 9 games.
By leftcoastfan
November 9, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
anyone remember last summer when folks wrote that the falcons should sit matt ryan when the season starts. man, this guy is the real deal. he is on par to come real close to the falcon passing record held by Peachtree Bart. I realized that matt rayn threw for 4500 yards last year at BC. i then looked up the falcon passing yardage, and bart did it i think in 80, he threw for 3500 yds. i thought, now we should draft Ryan. two more offseasons and Thomas D will have the birds in the super bowl. heard it here first.
falcons win the super bowl in three years time.
By littlebird
November 9, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Same receivers, different Coaches, different QB … it has made all the difference in the world! A lot of the problems were the previous coaches and their play-calling. Most of the problems were #7 was too short to see the field behind those big linemen (couldn’t find his receivers) and never learned how to pass. He always tried to throw the ball through his receiver or at least knock him down!! He thought that made him look strong!
By Newnan Jacket
November 9, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
I think Kevin is drunk.
By md2020
November 9, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Great job Falcons! My only concern is the second half offensive slow down. The Birds need to carry the momentum they start games with and bury people! sooner or later a team will come back on them because of the conservative play calling. That said, the new cornerback, forget his name, was spectacular. Little concerned “The Burner” may be visiting “The Varsity” too much. Looks a little slow. I’d like to see Snelling get more carries. Thanks Mark for your column. Try to keep the jerks off here.
By falcon
November 9, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
The Dome was plenty noisy today with the Saints in town. And I didn’t see 11,000 empty seats. No way.
By Ryder
November 9, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Can we say Patriots South? This organization has a professionalism that I’ve never seen out of previous Falcons regimes.
No question that what Matt Ryan and the leadership of Mike Smith is rubbing off on on the rest of the players. The line is a cohesive unit, even with Sam Baker out. The secondary is gaining more confidence and John Abraham is doing a great job, especially how VanGorder (bet the Dawg fans wish they had him right about now) is utilizing him.
I smell a 10-6 season, even if that means they don’t make the playoffs, especially in the crowded NFC, this team is too well put together to be a flash in the pan.
By bobbysell
November 9, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
the boys are all right!! Go Falcons!!!
By monty
November 9, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Great game! WE almost got a little too conservative in the 2nd half,when you do that(just trying to run out the clock) I think it takes the adrenaline out of your team and everybody is just trying to hang on instead of being in attack mode. We got saved by an interception, kind of reminded me of the GA-LSU game. I guess no harm no foul.
By justafan
November 9, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
You just gotta love it!!!!!New GM ,Coach and staff,plus a new group of players that play as a team ,want to win and fun to watch. What more could you wish . Great job Team!!!
Wish Braves could do the same but it will not happen.
By maddog
November 9, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
HEY VICK SUPPORTER2.WHERE YOU AT NOW.THIS IS A REAL TEAM. ALL WE NEEDED WAS A QB WITH A GOOD HEAD ON HIS SHOULDER AND GIVING GUYS LIKE HALL AND VICK THE BOOT.LOOK WE ARE WINNING,THATS ALL I GOT TO SAY.GO FALCONS!!
By Flafalcon
November 9, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a Falcon fan since 1966. Dad took me to Airport to greet team on return home on a Sunday night after Falcons first ever road win Have been thru a lot of tough year’s and I have to say I do like what i’m seeing from this team It’s still early and we are a young team.
Just one game at a time. WHY NOY US!
By Flafalcon
November 9, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
WHY NOT US!
By scottbravesfan
November 9, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Good game today. It’s always great to beat down the Aints!
Atlanta you got to start getting to the dome faster. It’s always empty for the first quarter before people fill it up. Come on!
By RC35
November 9, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
The Falcons are a good TEAM. They are fun to watch, because you see them execute well and support one another. I hope they can keep this attitude for a long time to come. Thanks, Coach Smith, and TEAM!
By MATTY FREAKING ICE
November 9, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
MATTY FOR MAYOR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Action
November 9, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Michael who???
By Getaway
November 9, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
I have decided that I’m no longer going to live in the past with this team. It is irrelevent. This team is as far removed from last year as they are from the Superbowl year.
I mean they’ve been exciting before, they’ve been winners before. But I don’t recall them ever having done it with talent from their latest draft. They’re good, they’re young and they can only get better.
By cobbdawg
November 9, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Great win…and how refreshing it is to hear a player (Foxworth) preferring to heap praise on his fellow teammates, rather than on himself even though he had a great game and helped to set the tone for the defense. That is exactly why Meangelo would never fit in with this team. We have the right Team First attitude, and in the NFL, that is the difference between contenders and pretenders.
By borden
November 9, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
I’m very excited about this football team! I’ve been a fan for the past 35yrs. I can honestly say this is the best TEAM yet. Looking forward to see what happens at the end of the year and up and comming years. Coach Smith keep up the good work. GO FALCONS!!! and MR2!!!!
By itpdude
November 9, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
This is a great story that I did not see coming. I’m impressed. But I’m still waiting and seeing, too.
By Scott
November 9, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
They are not as good as the 1998 NFC champion team, but they are damned good. I picked them to go 3-13 before the season. This is the biggest surplus season ever. IF they make the playoffs, they won’t get far. Next season, though, already has me very excited.
By Nookah
November 9, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
Great win by our team. I must also admit at the start of the season if we win 5 or 6 games this year I’d be happy. Guess what, I’m happy!!!!! However, what we are witnessing is what a disciplined, organized and goal driven coaching staff and management can mean to a team.
Kudos to TD, MS and all the other coaches for doing an extra-ordinary job. It is remarkable how our defense is playing and I give full credit again to the coaching staff for keeping The Predator fresh and injury free. I don’t know about you but the defense is looking better and better. This reminds me of the season we went to the Superbowl. Do I hear dejavous?
It also is testament to the management team (Scouts included) for picking physically talented and mentally sound players who have been performing at their peak. Last but not least, what can I say about Matt Ryan? That’s rhetorical!!!! I know he’s been more than what we all expected and more. If we can sustain this run, we can make the playoffs.
Let’s hear it for the secondary!!! Great game!!! NOSaints got a number of what Jim Mora used to call “empty yards” All l want now is for us to really stick it to Tampa and Carolina and I’ll be even happier than I am now and that’ll be some real happiness!!!!
Thanks Mr. Blank. It took you a while to get the right formula but that’s the sign of a good businessman, never give up when you know you have a good product. Get the right team together and the sky is the limit!!!!
Go Falcons!!!!
Nuff respect!!!
By Tami
November 9, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
LOL at Action (10:08 pm entry)….
My thoughts: No matter how the Falcons finish this season, I’ve really enjoyed this season! It’s soooo nice seeing our football team WIN more than they lose. I can sooo get used to this. For a rebuilding year, it’s going pretty well so far.
I’m not, mind you, getting OVERLY smug just yet. There’s still a whole lot of season left. A team who finished BELOW the cellar-dwellers last season has a lot to prove to earn the respect that the serious contenders get. But, things are looking great….so far. Well, I wish them well against Denver next week. Go, Falcons!
By Ken Strickland
November 9, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
I figured this yrs team would have a winning record, something like 10-6. My thinking was if last yrs team won 4gms after what they went through, they should easily repeat that win total with the easier schedule. Then I figured with an improved OFF and DEF, we should win the 5 gms we lost last yr by 7 or fewer pts. I threw in an upset win to arrive at my final total of 10wins. I will admit I felt it was a reach, but a went with my theory anyway.
With 7gms remaining, we can go 4-3 the rest of the season and end up with 10wins. If we win the 3 remaining gms with our NFC South rivals, plus another win, we could end up as conference champs. Wouldn’t that be a major accomplishment for the Falcons and their new organization?
By oldtimer
November 9, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
former posters saying the Falcons are for real are absolutely right. Time to get used to the Falcons being a winner, year in..year out… I credit TD.. he picked MS who put together a solid experienced coaching staff. It always starts at the top. Hey Vick Jockstrap2 where are ya? How do you like us now?
By mike
November 9, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this
Mark- I know it was a great game, but am I the only one who was disappointed in the Falcons’ play, starting with 52 seconds left before the half? I know we “trounced” them, but up until the end, it seemed there was always the possibility of them coming back. I feel we started playing way to conservatively, way too early. Martyball could have caused this game to turn ugly.
By Vince
November 10, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
Don’t get too excited just yet. Remember Leman Bennett, Jerry Glanville and Jim Mora just to name a few that were supposed to take the falcons to the promised land. This has been a team of high hopes only to end up on the lowest of lows.
By captain Midnight
November 10, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
Good articel Bradley. I’m glad you did not go off the deep end and declare them world champions after a couple of wins like you usually do with the local teams. Every thing about this team is good and being done in the right way. If you want to write a good article write one about Willie Martiniz and his horrible defense at Georgia. He has to go before they can really contend. Have a joint and loosen up.
By Boo Boo
November 10, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
There is an old saying, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” That is why there is an old football adage that says, “We can’t look past the next game.” In other words, what the Falcons have done at home gets thrown out the window. It means nothing. Having won four of four home games does not mean they have automatically won eight of eight, or seven of eight home games. The Falcons have not won any of the remaining games on their schedule yet. They are 0 for 8 so far, in that regard.
The Falcons are 6 - 3, which is one of the better records in the NFL; but it would not get them a playoff birth if the playoffs began next week (both Washington and Tampa Bay have better conference records than the Falcons). We have seen Mora get the team off to 6 - 2 and 5 - 3 starts, only to finish 8 - 8 and 7 - 9. Remember this is the Atlanta Falcons, which means 40 years of stink does not wash off immediately. We still have Petrino stink and his 4 - 12 record hanging around. Some people around the Great lakes do not know the Falcons have won any games this year. They still think Atlanta stinks.
Certainly, the team looks like it has the coaching, chemistry, and wherewithall to play each game competitively. That is good; but competitively does not mean a win each week. The Falcons are still some players away from being consistent winners, where competitive is always taken for granted. If Jay Cutler can see how Drew Brees moved the Saints about 168 yards in a little over 4 minutes against the Falcons, and duplicates that for 60 minutes next week, the Falcons could walk away 59 - 3 losers to Denver. Will this week’s cheers turn to jeers then, if that happened?
The Falcons have known weaknesses, especially on defense. Falcon fans have to be prepared for losses based on those weaknesses, and still realize this team was predicted to be nada this year. They are way ahead of where most thought they would be; but what if they fell on a seven game losing streak. What if all seven losses were by less than 3 points? Would you cheer their 6 - 10 record, if they fought hard and lost?
The fans have to be prepared for losses because Denver, Tampa Bay, Carolina, New Orleans, San Diego, St. Louis, and Minnesota are not going to roll over and let the Falcons win, so their fans will be happy. Likewise, those teams all know they better plan on playing their best against the Falcons, or they could easily lose. If anyone in the Falcon organization started believing Mark Bradley hype, expect a seven game losing streak to come.
Just be glad they won today, then root for them to play hard next week.
By Armond Hill
November 10, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
Secondary played exceptional. I can’t remember ever seeing a Falcons secondary bat down so many balls. No YACs either.
This team reminds me a little of the 1980 Falcons. Bruising ground game to set up a verticle passing game. No-name O-line and no-name secondary. The 2008 secondary is pretty good though. The 1980 secondary cost us our 1st trip to the superbowl. If we had a more athletic WLB we might see the gritz blitz part II.
Lock it up Atlanta. With Dimitrof and Smith at the helm and Blank’s deep pockets, the Falcons will be major players in the NFC for as long as they are here. This is as well-coached a Falcon team as I’ve ever seen. No busted coverages. No busted plays. No missed blocking assignments. No stupid penalties. Everything looks sharp and precise. Even down to the special teams.
Coach Smith is about as good as it gets. The players seem to like him AND respect him. No drama. No nonsense. Good guy. Detail specific. Blank hit the jackpot. Lock it up Atlanta. We’ve finally got a winner.
GO FALCONS! GO HAWKS! WAR EAGLE!
By e.b.
November 10, 2008 2:58 AM | Link to this
Scoot, how can you say they won’t get far if they make the playoffs? The Giants aren’t too convincing, despite being 8-1. The Eagles should’ve lost to the Falcons, and I’m still not entirely sold on either Tampa Bay or Carolina. So why not the Falcons? Lets just wait and see.
By Boner Jackson
November 10, 2008 3:07 AM | Link to this
Washington, Tampa Bay, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Chicago. The competition for the 2 wildcard spots will be extra stiff. We probably need 11 wins to make the playoffs this year. That means going 5-2 the rest of the way. Can it be done? Yes. We should consider that Washington also has a rookie head coach, and Philly and Minnesota and Chicago worse records. Let’s take it one game at a time and pray that our misery last year earned us enough Karma to slide in there now.
By theedge
November 10, 2008 5:42 AM | Link to this
It made me very sad to see Norwood showboating like that on his TD. He always seemed to be a humble guy. This team cannot let any one person be greater than the team. I believe he should be made to review Leon Lett film a few times so he knows “Celebration is fine but only after the goaline!”
Impressive division win Go Falcons
By jerry
November 10, 2008 7:07 AM | Link to this
I loved Norwood’s high-stepping into the end zone. He was excited and having fun and it was spontaneous. I would like to see more of it.
By faninSC
November 10, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this
Nice to see a Falcons TEAM play……Hope they stay real and the coaching staff sticks to their current methods…. GO FALCONS!!!
By DSGB
November 10, 2008 7:38 AM | Link to this
THE FALCONS ARE REALLY PLAYING SOME GOOD FOOTBALL THIS YEAR & ACTUALLY WINNING GAMES
By D.Ellis
November 10, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
Mark-Crazy the difference in 1 year when you:
Bring in a new GM Hire a new HC Hire new DC/OC Draft a franchise QB Sign top RB in Free agency Draft much needed depth
Alot needs to go to to Dimitrof/Smith for this turn around…..ALOT
Those guys put in TONS OF WORK.
By SCBird
November 10, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
Atlanta should make a run in free agency for Devery Henderson….And we need another pass rusher opposite Abraham…And a corner to replace Houston. Overall, I like the direction of the team.
By previous ryan skeptic
November 10, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this
mvsupporter obviously forgot to pay his internet bill this month. i’m quite sure he will post his thoughts later on today when he finally makes it to the library wearing his mv jersey. he must be infuriated with how the falcons are playing. ryan continues to impress and is having a phenomenal season. i truly enjoy watching turner and norwood tear up the field for yardage. roddy white and michael jenkins are blossoming into great receivers. john abraham is a force to be reckoned with. the offense AND defense are clicking and are firing on all cylinders. wow, i’m truly excited about the falcons. lawyer milloy had it right. GO FALCONS!
By newgafatboy
November 10, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this
great game, but it could have been better.it should have been 34-9
i love Boley but that was a terrible attemp on Deuce, he didnt even try to wrap up. your not going to knock Deuce off his feet with a shoulder. white drops a first down pass that would have let us run the clock out. norwood high stepping way too early, and im sure there were some mistakes i didnt see. i hope Coach Smith tunes them up watching film. But all in all what a game. the future is bright
By darrell starks
November 10, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this
Falcons look good THE ICEMAN IS THE MAN. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By tixholdersince 66
November 10, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
What happened to all the ” black out home games” we were going to have. They have all been televised due to sell outs. Haven’t heard from the Vicker’s since they promised us half filled Dome after he went to BIG BOY JAIL!
By Kelley
November 10, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
I think the new GM said it all when he said “I can’t stress this enough,” Dimitroff said, “but all our new guys are about the team. It’s not just about them.
That one statement sums it up. No more players like DHall. It is very refreshing to see, and actually fun to watch this year. Can’t say enough about the new GM, the new coach, and the rookie QB.
By mars
November 10, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
Speaking as a Bulldog fan, Yeah, we really really miss Van Gorder in Athens. That being said, there are still a few more defensive gurus more adept than our current moron Martinez available out there. He should have been gone three years ago when West Virginia exposed his chumphood. I’m just glad that Van Gorder is with the Falcons, rather than the Evil Genius!
By Tom Becker
November 10, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
You cant pass any more effectively than our rookie. It shows how a good passing Q beats a pass/run Q anyday. Vick was a tailback who could throw. Ryan is a Q. One of the most promising Q’s since the last most promising Q.
Mostly, the Falcons are entertaining. Vick was entertaining, yes, but these Falcons are an entertaining team. Not just one guy, they play as 22 guys plus special teams and the occasional 12th guy on the field…you know, the 12th guy should be the fans. And we are. We love our Falcons.
That’s how a team gets in the playoffs: by getting that 12th guy on the field.
We are the 12th guy! Let’s do it! Who’s with me? Lets get ourselves on that field!!!!
By 78 FALCON
November 10, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
SC BIRD, WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO REPLACE HOUSTON RIGHT NOW? THE GUY IS GETTING BETTER. I THOUGHT THE SECONDARY WOULD PAY A HUGE PRICE HAVING TO RELY ON HIM TOO MUCH. BUT HE IS HOLDING HIS OWN. I WOULD NOT CHANGE THE CHEMISTRY OF THIS TEAM 1 BIT RIGHT NOW. AND I WAS AT THE GAME AND SAW MORE EMPTY SEATS THAN I THOUGHT THERE WOULD BE. AND HAD AN OLD LADY SAINT FAN THAT COULD NOT BELIVE WE ACTUALLY SAT DOWN DURING THE GAME. WE NEED TO STAY PUMPED ON 1ST 2ND AND 3RD DOWN WHEN OUR DEFENSE IS ON THE FIELD. WAY TO GO FALCONS
By Mark Bradley
November 10, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
Isn’t it interesting that the two units considered the weakest in preseason — the offensive line and the secondary — are actually looking rather good?
Isn’t it fascinating how much difference coaching can make?
By Tom
November 10, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Falcons need to play second half with same intensity as first. Seem to go conservative with up the middle/off tackle second half. Other teams can catch up quickly. Throw deep more often. Can get interferenance or a completion. LOt of good things can happen with down field passing. We have a q back that can throw deep. Use him.
By PMC
November 10, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
Just to be on the record, I have to give Rich Mckay some credit. A lot of his draft picks are now coming around, amazing what some great coaches, a new outlook and great first draft for our new GM and a QB who really plays the position well makes us look.
My gosh These guys are professionals. Mike Mularky, Paul Beaudroux, BVG, Mike Smith… etc etc.
Wow, I hope we can keep these coaches. For his sake I hope Milloy gets to hang around another year too.
By Tech75
November 10, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
The past few years it was MV7 and some other guys waiting for MV7 to do something spectacular.
Just goes to show you that one talented but selfish superstar can misdirect and ultimately derail and de-motivate an entire team.
In this respect, Dimitroff and Smith are the MVPs for carving out the cancers and getting back to solid fundamentals - the right attitude being the #1 priority.
By mvsupporter
November 10, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Sorry I havent been able to post, but been busy with my boy, paying him a little visit, know what Im sayin?
MV7 know how to “beat it up”.
By GerryH
November 10, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
I have been watching Falcon football since they started in 1966 (12 years old at the time). Other than the Leamon Bennett teams, this is the best team I remember seeing. It also looks like the coaches are actually coaching the players up. After last year, this is so much more fun!
PS My family has had season ticket since 1966 so I have seen some really BAD teams.
By MWC
November 10, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Game ball to Falcon secondary, with Abraham a VERY close second. Mark, it is fascinating.
By Space Mountain
November 10, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
WOW. Now that the birds have everybody’s attention. I really wonder if they can kick it into a higher gear. I know they keep saying this is a process, but when does the process become the finished product. They are playing like contenders right now. Sure there is plenty of football left but I mean come on. This TEAM sure looks legit in more ways than one. My question is this: When do they stop saying this is a process and say they are making a run for the post season? If they have an higher gear to kick in this TEAM looks very dangerous. This has taken a turn into the surreal. I almost don’t want to believe what I am seeing. Regardless of what happens the rest of the way this TEAM earned all the respect they deserve. They walk it like they talk and do all their talking on the field. Legitimacy sure is a wonderful feeling.
By Matt Pethel
November 10, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
Michael who, you ask? Michael Turner, that’s who…
…or Michael Jenkins.
…or Michael Smith.
By ATLien
November 10, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this
Dude “Kevin,”
You are illiterate. Don’t post on these blogs if no one can understand what you’re saying. Falcons are the bomb, Hawks are undefeated, and Tech’s program is on the up and up… Feels good to be from Atlanta
By joel
November 10, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
Hey Bradley, tell your associate Carroll Rogers that Chris Houston is not a rookie.
By 78 FALCON
November 10, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
KUDOS TO THE WHOLE FALCON ORGANIZATION. KEEP IT UP GUYS. GOOOOOOOO FALCONS!!!
By el jefe
November 10, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
You guys beat me to it. —Where You At Vicksupporter(s)? Your bitter spins on this Falcons team and matt ryan, just crack me up! What do you have to say now? Freakin Morons! Learn to be a man, and give credit where credit’s due. Stop bein so damn pathetic and just grow up. Like Mr. Vick, I hope you all get your head out of your @ss and wise up.
By dhj_1962
November 10, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
see yall sunday!!! section 206!!!! need to go 11-5 to make playoffs, thank goodness philly lost. carolina’s schedule is pretty weak. Atl continues playing hard, the wins will come, so will the hardware for HC Smith, Dimitroff and Matty Ice!!!!
By e.b.
November 10, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
Yeah, who was the guy that said replace Chris Houston? What drugs are you on? Our secondary was excellent yesterday- 3 INT’s
By Chris
November 10, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
I felt the Falcons could go 8-8 or 9-7 at the start of the season. If you remember Detroit was suppose to be a PLAYOFF contender. Opps! The experts really aren’t experts at all. They’re people that go on hunches. The Falcons look like a 9-7 or 10-6 team. I may have under shot this Falcons team from the rip. The Falcons needed a new leader Vick was in prison and Dorsey wasn’t it. Why not Ryan? Sam Baker will lift this club even higher once he is activated. I still haven’t seen Laurent Robinson in many of the schemes. Once they find a way to insert him in the plays they increase there weapons and can open their passing and rushing game that much more. This Falcons team is good, but I still can’t wait to see their full potential!
By Chris
November 10, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
I felt the Falcons could go 8-8 or 9-7 at the start of the season. If you remember Detroit was suppose to be a PLAYOFF contender. Opps! The experts really aren’t experts at all. They’re people that go on hunches. The Falcons look like a 9-7 or 10-6 team. I may have under shot this Falcons team from the rip. The Falcons needed a new leader Vick was in prison and Dorsey wasn’t it. Why not Ryan? Sam Baker will lift this club even higher once he is activated. I still haven’t seen Laurent Robinson in many of the schemes. Once they find a way to insert him in the plays they increase there weapons and can open their passing and rushing game that much more. This Falcons team is good, but I still can’t wait to see their full potential!
By Chris
November 10, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
I felt the Falcons could go 8-8 or 9-7 at the start of the season. If you remember Detroit was suppose to be a PLAYOFF contender. Opps! The experts really aren’t experts at all. They’re people that go on hunches. The Falcons look like a 9-7 or 10-6 team. I may have under shot this Falcons team from the rip. The Falcons needed a new leader Vick was in prison and Dorsey wasn’t it. Why not Ryan? Sam Baker will lift this club even higher once he is activated. I still haven’t seen Laurent Robinson in many of the schemes. Once they find a way to insert him in the plays they increase there weapons and can open their passing and rushing game that much more. This Falcons team is good, but I still can’t wait to see their full potential!
By Mark Bradley
November 10, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
I thought the Falcons managed the game beautifully Sunday. Threw early, got ahead, went to the running game, got further ahead. That’s the way it’s supposed to work. And the defense more than held up its end.
By Space Mountain
November 10, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
To all those people stuck in the past all I have to say is the ICEMAN has cometh. And he is for real.
By stephen
November 10, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
I think 10-6 is possible but a playoff birth would be icing on the cake.
The proof of how good this team is will come next year and seeing the Flacons post back to back winning records. That would be the final statement of where this organization is going.
So far, this team has exceeded all my expectations and brought hope!
By scott
November 10, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
it has been said repeatedly, and truly bears repeating: this is what a PROFESSIONAL football team looks like. they have a plan, the coaches to impart it, and the players to execute it. it is actually fun to watch an entire game, not just wait for vick highlights. if this year is the rebuilding year, what does the future hold??
By Braindawg
November 10, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Mark i too had my doubts about how good this falcons team would be this year. That being said, I enjoy your articles and your point of view. You have a tough job predicting the outcome of sporting events, but for the most part you do a fine job. Thanks for the time and energy you put into your job! P.S. Let me know when you figure out how to get all your predictions right, I really need to make some money!
By Braindawg
November 10, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
Mark i too had my doubts about how good this falcons team would be this year. That being said, I enjoy your articles and your point of view. You have a tough job predicting the outcome of sporting events, but for the most part you do a fine job. Thanks for the time and energy you put into your job! P.S. Let me know when you figure out how to get all your predictions right, I really need to make some money!
By Braindawg
November 10, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
And by the way, of the 420 some odd yards passing Brees had on Sunday, how many did he have in the 4th qtr.? I believe he got over half his yards in garbage time. While the Birds were playing a semi prevent defense. Thus the “D” for the birds, really did do a great job against one of the best passers in the league.
By dan
November 10, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Well I must say it’s nice to see one team in Red and Black play hard week in and week out! The Saints have a great offense and a great QB. Brees is playing better than anyone in the NFL right now. Beating the Saints is a big deal b/c they have owned us the last 2 years. I would like for us to get a win over Carolina and Tampa Bay at home before I proclaim that this team is ready for the playoffs. We also have a couple of tough games vs. some really good offenses like Denver and San Diego. But I like how this team plays hard. Even if they don’t make the playoff’s this year, I’m still voting Mike Smith as coach of the year!