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Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > November > 16 > Entry

Falcons just didn’t have it this Sunday

By Mark Bradley | Sunday, November 16, 2008, 06:21 PM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

“This is part of our process,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said for the hundredth time this calendar year, and it is. The team that didn’t figure to be favored many times this season had finally lost as a favorite, and the realization that it was one of those vintage NFL losses — one play either way — offered no solace. On the contrary, it made this a hundred times worse.

“I kind of blew it,” said Roddy White, who dropped a ball in the corner of the end zone that would have made the Falcons winners at the end. “I feel responsible.”

Said Keith Brooking, the linebacker: “That play didn’t lose the game. … We [the defense] definitely left some plays out there.”

Three times these Falcons had lost, but each was a road game against a presumably stronger opponent. This was the first time they’d lost at home, lost when they figured they could and would win. “It’s frustrating,” said Todd McClure, the center. “We saw some things on film that made us think we could get our running game going, and we couldn’t.”

Maybe they’d gotten ahead of themselves. Maybe they viewed this middle game of their homestand as the creamy filling in the Oreo, Denver as a middle-tier AFC opponent arriving between two NFC South brethren. None of the Falcons would admit as much, but something was a hair off. Michael Turner needed 25 carries to gain 81 yards. Matt Ryan threw his first interception in the Georgia Dome. And White, who has snagged everything all season, couldn’t grab the ball that would have overridden everything.

“We should be celebrating right now,” said White, beating himself up, but in fairness it would have been a terrific catch — fighting a defender and trying to toe the sideline while running under a ball delivered from 50 yards away. Still, he had both hands on it. On another day he hooks it and the Falcons dance away as merrily as they did after those 11 seconds against Chicago.

Apart from those 11 seconds, the Falcons hadn’t trailed in the Dome this season. They fell behind 5-1/2 minutes into this first half and again five minutes into the second. They punted only twice and turned it over just once — Ryan throwing off his back foot and being intercepted by Dre’ Bly — but there was no rhythm to their work. They didn’t lose because they were wretched; they lost because they didn’t play quite well enough.

Smith even coached cautiously. He was trying to set up a free-kick-field-goal near the end of the half, but Brett Kern’s punt was fair-caught at the Atlanta 44-yard line. Smith didn’t think Jason Elam could kick a 66-yarder even unrushed and, with nine seconds left, didn’t want to have Denver turn around and try a field goal of its own. But if that setting — ball on the 44, final 10 seconds — sounds familiar … well, there’s a reason.

The Falcons had taken possession at the same spot with six seconds left against Chicago. This time Ryan didn’t throw to Michael Jenkins; he didn’t throw at all. Smith chose to have his quarterback kneel and to accept a six-point halftime lead, six as opposed to a possible nine. And that seemed strange. The Falcons, who had been the clear aggressor in this building all season, acted as if they were protecting something.

And that is, not to be trite, part of the process. A young team has to learn to stay hungry once it starts to win. On this given Sunday we saw something we wouldn’t have believed we’d see two months ago: We saw the Falcons looking slightly fat and happy, and that’s not a look that becomes them.

Permalink | Comments (207) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL

Comments

By NYC Falcon

November 16, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

What’s up with Roddy? He catches that ball, we win the game. Too many missed opportunities on offense.

By Jared

November 16, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU MARK!

This is my only gripe with coach Smith, being too cautious.

I can understand the need for it at times, but when you’re playing a team with a strong offense, hunkering down on a 13-7 lead at the end of the first half just doesn’t cut it.

That play didn’t lose the game by any stretch, but eventually, that kind of thing will lose games for you. You have to take every (decent) chance you get in the NFL, and today, Smith didn’t.

I hope he learns from this.

By Falcon Max

November 16, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

FGreat column. I agree 100%. Face it, we were flat most of the game. From our opening drive (three and out) we played much too conservatively. We need to keep that edge and play aggressively. Let’s correct it next week against the Panthers

By rms

November 16, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

Even if White catches the ball our defense was so poor Denver would have driven down the field and kicked a field goal to win the game in the laat seconds. There was still plenty of time left after that play for Denver to move the ball. Blame it on the defense, not just White

By Alex

November 16, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

This team is still learning. All phases were a little off today, but they were still in the game in the 4th quarter. That’s what you want. Tough loss but I think this team will learn from it. They will need to play better next week in order to beat Carolina.

By X5

November 16, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t believe it when they waited so long to call that timeout on Denver’s 4th down at the end of the 1st half … then Douglas called fair catch … then they took a knee!

Are you kiddin’ me??

I agree, that didn’t lose the game, and they might not have gotten the ball in field goal range if they’d tried, but at your own 44 with 9 seconds, YOU HAVE TO TRY.

I’m not a bandwagon jumper (on or off), but it bugs me that they keep playing ultra conservative even on routine plays that almost any other team would take a chance on.

This will hurt them if they don’t learn what is a good risk.

By HarvardBlue

November 16, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Been saying the same thing all year. If the Falcons get a 1 point lead the coaching staff shuts down the offense and tries to see if that 1 point will be enough. Finally, if came back to haunt us.

By HarvardBlue

November 16, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Been saying the same thing all year. If the Falcons get a 1 point lead the coaching staff shuts down the offense and tries to see if that 1 point will be enough. Finally, if came back to haunt us.

By Harpie

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

Loser mentality at the end of the first half! Good teams try to score when they have the chance; losers are satisfied with just being in the lead. BOOOOOO!!!!!!

By GThugs

November 16, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Roddy LOST the game today. He catches that perfect pass from our awesome new white QB, we’re 7-3 instead of 6-4. If we dont make the playoffs, look to his screw up. Bottom line…he catches it, no one is talking about the defense or special teams.

By count_schemula

November 16, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Win or lose, at least they look like a real football team this year. After enduring Glanville, the boringly efficient Reeves era, the “I’m one of the guys” era of Mora driving around in Meangelo’s Italian sports car, and the whole Vick and Petrino disasters, this team still earns my respect and is the first Falcons team I want to actually watch in a very long time. The Vick freak show was entertaining and all, but this is a real football team we have here. They are not supposed to even be this good, and this is still Mike Smith’s rookie season, so… the future remains bright.

By chris

November 16, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Those are the falcons i know

By harleydawg

November 16, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

trade roddy white before it gets worse and he has no value at all.

By James

November 16, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

It never seems to fail:

The Falcons start out strong, get us all excited about the playoffs, then blow a game they should have won.

Hawks start out 6-0, lose to the celtics—understandable—but then blow two straight to…New Jersey?!!?

Braves can’t sign Peavy. The ownership doesn’t care about the team…hence they’re going nowhere…

Let me tell ya, it has been great to be an Atlanta sports fan where for every one step forward my teams take, they always take three steps back.

By Bugman

November 16, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Enough is enough; Roddy White must go! Make room for a rookie that doesn’t have demons in his head.

By TG

November 16, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Roddy defended Vick and his antics…maybe we should have gotten rid of that thug along with DeAngelo and Mike

By willie martin

November 16, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Is it possible the Falcons werent mentally in this one? Is it possible the Carolina game was looming? I sensed from the 1st quarter that things were gonna be a little different today. But hey its ok we’ll take the Panthers next week GO FALCONS!

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Come back next week and take it out on Carolina - The Season is not over because we lost one at home. Go Falcons!!!!!! All is good… At least it was a good game!

By Falconfan

November 16, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

Does anybody agree that we should get rid of Chris Houston? I mean, week after freaking weak this dude gives up a huge pass play by not playing the ball. Instead, this idiot is looking at the wide receiver and playing the receiver instead of the ball. Had he been playing the ball instead of Marshall in the 3rd Quarter, he probably would have knocked the ball down or intercepted the ball instead of them completing a 50-yard pass and then move on to score a damn touchdown! Get rid of Houston, and get a better cornerback on the right side dammit!

By JerseyFalcon

November 16, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

two words..NO PRESSURE! Cutler would carve them up all day, and they only got one sack. I give credit to Ryan for keeping them in the game at the end, if White didn’t drop the pass. No pressure and that long pass on 3rd and 7…did Anderson whiff on Cutler?

By david

November 16, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Yes it was a very tough loss to swallow.But to hear some of the negative comments about Roddy white just isnt fair.Hes improved so much these past 2 years.He doesnt make a very very tough catch and then he gets ripped.Shame on those of you who are so forgetful.The falcons has a whole just didnt play well enough to win.Yet we had a chance.Give credit to Denver and the way they suprised us with there defense and there runs.They deserved it more.So lets uck it up as disapointing as it is and get ready to play the Panthers at the dome.No time to cry.This game is HUGE.Thanks and Go Falcons.You fair weathered fans.We dont need you.

By JerseyFalcon

November 16, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

two words..NO PRESSURE! Cutler would carve them up all day, and they only got one sack. I give credit to Ryan for keeping them in the game at the end, if White didn’t drop the pass. No pressure and that long pass on 3rd and 7…did Anderson whiff on Cutler?

By joe

November 16, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

I think it’s acccurate to say that the Falcons are a fair team, potentially good, but not destined for the Super Bowl this year.

And if that’s right then they’re gonna lose a couple they shouldn’t and win a couple they shouldn’t. I don’t like today’s result but hopefully these types of games are rare in the future. Kinda got outcoached today on a tactical level.

I’m just happy that they look competent and are only a couple of linemen away from top 8 type team. Until then, play hard. I’m wearing the colors.

By Nocturnal Owl (N Nine)

November 16, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES!!!

By JerseyFalcon

November 16, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

two words..NO PRESSURE! Cutler would carve them up all day, and they only got one sack. I give credit to Ryan for keeping them in the game at the end, if White didn’t drop the pass. No pressure and that long pass on 3rd and 7…did Anderson whiff on Cutler?

By DenverBird

November 16, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

At least you guys don’t have to live out here with all the arrogant, orange-and-blue Donkeys… My neighbor just hoisted his big Bronco flag…

anyway, Mark’s comment about the Falcons looking “fat and happy” rang true with me… Anybody else see a perfect storm brewing this week?

The Broncos lose their entire starting linebacker corps; the ajc.com loudly - and proudly - exclaims “Running Over Denver” yesterday… Did everyone forget the long-term standard of excellence that Denver has (mostly) maintained over the last 30 years? Did every member of this youthful, exciting team RESPECT their opponent enough this week?

And to all the bench Falcon players who felt the need to trash-talk Winborn all game - did any of you consider sitting down & getting your heads into the game, just in case you’re needed on the field??

One more thing - does anybody realize that just because Matt Ryan will almost certainly continue to blossom and mature over the years, that there is NO GUARANTEE our record will reflect that in the future? Dan Marino’s one and only chance to to win the whole enchilada? His second year..

This might be a good year, with such overall league parity, for the Falcons to get serious, stay hungry, quit trash talking, study more film and listen to their coaches.

Opportunity legitimately knocking is rare in the NFL (as we Falcon fans already know). Let’s don’t lose all momentum for a very special season. Let’s see if we can get it back next week - all of a sudden a very important game for this young team’s psyche.

GO FALCONS!

By JerseyFalcon

November 16, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

FYI…weren’t the Falcons 4-12 last year? This is a new team, don’t expect them to win the super bowl after a 4-12 season. They Already have six wins..we aren’t playing madden 09 here people, can’t win every single game by 40 points.

By TG

November 16, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

That would have been Matt’s first last minute game winning TD bomb…thanks Roddy

By dd

November 16, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

What a bunch of whiny, crybaby idiots disguising themselves as fans.

You guys don’t deserve a winner in Atlanta, so go pull for the Colts or Giants.

Better yet, move to NY or Indy.

Probaly a bunch of yankees anyway.

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

JerseyFalcon - only hit post once and I agree - all you people trashing Roddy White tonight - GO AWAY!!!!!

By meesta

November 16, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Not enough pressure on Cutler, not enough running the ball effectively, not aggressive enough offensively, but a game we win next year….

By Mark Bradley

November 16, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Trade Roddy White? I don’t think so. He’s a really good player who blamed himself for this loss. I think those are the kind of guys you want on a team, not the kind you jettison.

And it would, I say again, have been a terrific catch. But, as White himself took pains to say, he’s capable of making those.

By jt

November 16, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

What a bunch of cry babies! This team was only supposed to win one game. Why don’t we just blame Roddy, and Brooking, and anyone else we can think of! Geez, this team will have games like this but, I think these coaches will have the team ready to play next week. Let’s all just take a deep breath…. there isn’t that better?

By GH

November 16, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Elite WRs make the catch in their sleep. Roddy = FAIL

By The Grinch

November 16, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Cut Roddy White? Are you people serious? Yes, he should have caught the ball, and he didn’t (and he wasn’t the only one who dropped a pass or two). No, Mularkey shouldn’t have been trying to bounce Turner outside on a team who’s weak up the middle but has strength and speed to the outside (it was in the papers all week, anywhere you cared to look). The few times he did hit the middle late it was effective. No, Ryan shouldn’t have thrown that lollypop off his back foot for an interception (and I’ll bet he won’t again anytime soon; he learns from his mistakes). Yes, Coach Smith played it too conservative.

However, Denver is a pretty good team who came to play and played hard, and we still had a chance to win at the end. Where was Denver predicted to finish this year? How ‘bout the Falcons? This is a young team and staff that’s still learning, and they’ll work it out. Give them a chance. Especially after another draft.

By Harpie

November 16, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

To GThugs - Why did you have to say white QB? You nasty jerk….

By Jim

November 16, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

I say this a huge fan of Ryan.

Why is Roddy catching all the grief? The interception Ryan threw was DREADFUL.

By Matt

November 16, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Hate to break it to all you homers, but had Roddy caught that ball, Denver would have just driven right down the field given that much time to score.

By stendec

November 16, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

HERE IT IS: Completely unacceptable defeat! Close does not count for a damn positive thing. Falcons were not prepared to compete. Broncos were! Cutler outplayed Ryan by a tremendous margin. That unforced interception was unacceptable by the usually intelligent rookie QB. Falcon defense totally exposed for fraud it is. Untalented Keith “No Tackle” Brooking needs to be put out to pasture or shot! Has-been cur cannot tackle a one-legged elderly woman in a freaking wheelchair. Cut him loose! Send Roddy “Another Critical Drop” White to the Redskins to be with his booty buddy DeA++hole Hall. There was no damn reason for this bellyup quit job! Hope these quitters are really happy with this embarrassment. Damn Hawks in a dome! Extremely disgusted with Falcons on this day. Wonderful way to celebrate true Falcon champions of old. Broncos were victorious then, too. Things never change!

By meesta

November 16, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Just not aggressive enough on defense or offense…starting the game throwing the ball did not make sense either. Had we been able to pressure Cutler we could have neutralized their run game. I jinxed the game. First one I’ve seen this year as I now live out west!

By Greg

November 16, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

This has little to do with Roddy. The D-line got zwero pressur all day against one of the NFL’s top passers. van Gorder apparently will not blitz no matter what. Just keep digging that hole VG. The Falcons have had a pathetic pass rush against all but 2 extremely weak teams. We are a sub-average team. That is the truth.

By Bugman

November 16, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

Ok MB and Sarah B, but hasn’t Roddy been CONSISTANT in dropping balls the last 3 seasons? This ain’t nothin new!

He has great weeks of practice and sporadic flashes of greatness on game days but doesn’t bring his head (read: confidence) to the field on Sundays.

I didn’t say trade him, I say make room for a rookie that doesn’t have mental issues. It’s well documented that the coaching staff has had to work OT to get White to exercise his demons. Obviously, it’s either a work in progress or it won’t ever succeed. How long do we suffer to figure out which?! He dropped the 1st two EZ passes of the game. Doesn’t surprise me he couldn’t come up with the clutch catch.

What’s wrong with starting Jenkins, Douglas and Finneran? Or even better, Jenkins, Douglas and Norwood as the slot?

I don’t care who they play, just not dropsy any more…

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

stendec - GO AWAY….

By crabapplejoe

November 16, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Jim wrote: “Why is Roddy catching all the grief?” Dude, did you watch the game. If he makes a basic catch we win the game. There’s a big difference between 6-4 or 7-3. He’s being paid big bucks to make that play. Ryan made the play he was supposed to make at the end of the game…scrambled, bought time and put it in Roddy’s hands in the end zone. Roddy dropped it…Falcon’s lose. It’s pretty simple.

By GThugs

November 16, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Why did I say “White QB?” Why was Vick called the “greatest black QB ever in Georgia?”

By oldbird

November 16, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Good grief people, lay off Roddy. Without him we are 4-6 at best. Even Jerry Rice dropped a few in his HOF career. We lost a close game to a quality opponent that we should have beaten and there is plenty of blame to go around. Poor running game, Brett Favre type interception, poor run defense in the second half, horrible special teams. In years past this would have been a blowout home loss. Instead, it was a game where we did not play our best and nearly beat the AFC west division leader. I have been a Falcon fan since 1972, and this is probably the 5th or 6th time I have been this optimistic this late in a season. Have some perspective people, we will still have a very good season, especially given all the respect that the experts gave us in August. Oh, and Roddy, good luck in your first of many trips to Hawaii for the pro bowl.

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Roddy is one of the main reasons along with Ryan, Turner and Abraham we are 6-4 lay off….. We take care of Delohomme & Co next week and the tone on this blog will be much different. We are having a winning season YALL.

By Kyle

November 16, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

True, Roddy should have made the catch but the way the defense looked taking them down the field on all three touchdowns they could be advertised in the yellow pages under escort services. Pathetic.

By crabapplejoe

November 16, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Sarah B wrote: “stendec - GO AWAY” We can only hope…but it is doubtful. He is now posting under “Jose” and some Chinese name with the same pitiful BS. Even with the loss, even with Roddy’s drop I am enjoying watching these Falcons more that any Falcons team I have seen in years. Ryan is the real deal. Just imagine if Roddy had made that catch. Probably would have sealed the deal for Ryan as Rookie of the Year. Combine that (possible) ending with the one against Chicago and Ryan is beginning to build a Montana like resume in his rookie year. I appreciate the fact that Roddy took responsibility for the loss and, unlike others I don’t think we should trade him just yet. I do think that Finneran should be starting or playing a lot more.

By obvious

November 16, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

stendec is 10 years old going on 10…give him a br…eerrr never mind

By BulldogJim

November 16, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

GH,

“Elite WR make the catch in their sleep. Roddy = Fail”. Ask any defensive coordinator who has played the Falcons this year and they will tell you Roddy White is the one receiver they try to double as often as possible. There is no doubt that Roddy White has improved dramatically this year. Yes, he was too quick and too vocal in defending Vick last year, but he has also been quite vocal about how good our rookie quarterback is now. White has made many big catches already this year, along with Jenkins.

He may not be one of the elite receivers this year, but he is definitely coming into his own. Most elite receivers play with the same QB for more than one year (Randy Moss with Tom Brady, Jerry Rice with Joe Montana, Michael Irvin with Troy Aikman, Marvin Harrison with Peyton Manning). If Roddy White and Matt Ryan both stay healthy and both remain with the Falcons, good things will continue to happen.

Remember all you Falcons doubters……..most “experts” picked us to go 1-15 or 2-14; 3-13 at best. The fact that we are one of the teams in the middle of the NFC playoff picture is the best tribute to this coaching staff, and the unity of this team, thanks in large part to the good work of GM Thomas Dimitroff and Coach Smith.

Come on guys……quit knocking our players! We lost a close game at home that we should have won. That’s life in the NFL. The future is bright for this franchise. We have a legitimate head coach who is respected by veteran players (see the quote last week by John Abraham). We have a GM who knows how to evaluate talent, and has a plan to build this team into a consistent winner. We have one of the best young quarterbacks in the league. Show a little bit of patience. Look where we were just one year ago…………..

By Bugman

November 16, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

LOL, Sarah, you must be his wife!

By darrell starks

November 16, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Thats okay we didnt win im still proud of this team KEEP IT UP FALCONS this team play hard ever week everyone should be proud of this team the ICE MAN is the real deal we will win next week. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Mark Bradley

November 16, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

I remember Terrell Owens dropping a few. (Actually, more than a few.) Contrary to popular belief, nobody’s perfect.

My view on the game was that the Broncos started both halves strong, which tells me the Falcons weren’t quite primed. And that’s why I disagreed with Smith not taking a shot at the end of the first half: There’s a big difference between a one-point lead and a four-point lead, especially with Denver getting the ball to start the second half.

By stendec

November 16, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

What has Rawhide got to do with Falcons?

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Bugman - I wish…. however is anyone else shocked that D Hall just intercepted Romo!! That’s is fine with me as Campbell just put me ahead in my fantasy league. Bugman sleep tight - Iloved Vick too but he threw to hard that’s why so many dropped balls in the past. Hey you wanna go out?

By Nick

November 16, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Roddy has been making great plays all year and seems to be a great team player, let’s stop throwing him under the bus for this one.

By Nick

November 16, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Roddy has been making great plays all year and seems to be a great team player, let’s stop throwing him under the bus for this one.

By crabapplejoe

November 16, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Sarah B, you are killing me….need more humor likes yours on this thread

By Reg

November 16, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

I was unhappy with the result but I will say this: This team has a 1st year coach and a rookie QB. He made a fantastic throw and Roddy White almost hauled it in. They really do need to lose a game like this to light a fire in their bellies to win. Believe me you will see a much different result and a disappointed Carolina team next week. BELIEVE ME THE FALCONS WILL WIN NEXT WEEK!

By B-man

November 16, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

I’m still proud of this team, the coaches, and Roddy as well. They competed hard and you people act as if we were taken to the woodshed. It was a 4 point loss with a chance to win. Roddy’s could have made the catch but it would have been a heckuva catch.

The only people I’m not proud of are “some” of us fans….some of you are the most negative, miserable people.

Look at some of the posts that some of these same people sent last week singing praises of playoffs and superbowls, and we lose one close game and you’re ready to bail out. Terrible fans.

By GoGaBulldawgs

November 16, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

this text will be bolded To all you fair weather fans- We were suppose to win 2,3 or maybe 4 games this season. All of you are armchair quarterbacks, just like my ex-husband, who no one wanted to watch a UGA game or Falcons game with. Why don”t all of you fans that criticize this team in their rebuilding year or two move to Cincy,KC,or even to Detroit. Go Falcons!

By GoGaBulldawgs

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

YOU SAID IT ALL B-MAN. GO BIRDS!

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Thanks , someone has to keep it light around here… I just hope if Bugman does say yes it isn’t because he looks like a cockroach… Go Falcons!

By T

November 16, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Tough game today. Roddy is an excellent receiver, but he should have caught the TD pass. I give him credit for standing up to the loss with his post game comments.

I agree with MB, this is a growth process and games like this happen in the process. But, it still hurts.

I do agree the team played like they thought this game was going to be easier than it was. Learn from it and do not repeat!

By Ray Whitey

November 16, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Um sick of all the racial blogs black or white has nuttin to do with winning football games. Bottom line nobody’s perfect roddy drop a helluva pass and matt threw and int so stop whining losers and get off the bandwagon!

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

I agree - black/white has noting to do with anything so as long as you don’t look like a bug…. where did you go Bugman??? HI crabapplejoe!

By Bugman

November 16, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

Sorry ya’ll, I can’t agree.

As awfull as the D was, as awful as the play calling seemed, as awful as the attitudes were, if White comes up with that catch for a TD it’s a whole different ball game. Who sez Denver marches down the field for the winning score? Why dont the Falcons D get energized by the TD and stuff them for 4 and out?

Lotsa “what if’s?” today but the consistant play was White dropping passes. He dropped the 1st two passes of the game. He dropped the go ahead score. This isn’t the 1st time he’s not made the catch. It won’t be the last. For me, investing in the Falcons future would mean finding a WR with consistant hands.

Sarah, aren’t you a Thrashers fan? You can find me at the ‘hoo as gabugman1. Love to meet ya somewhere for MNF and beerz.

By welikebaseball2

November 16, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Let’s see…if I’m still angry that #84 supported the former QB & I’ve been aching for a chance to call him that four-letter “t” word again, what do I do? I know, I ignore the fact that our current QB threw a momentum-killing pick & that our defense couldn’t stop the run or the pass.

By Brent S.

November 16, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

First of all, the season is FAR FROM OVER!!!! If we can handle our business with our remaining division games then we’ll be in good shape. Considering this was an AFC team we lost to, I’m not really too concerned about it…HOWEVER, therte are a few things that I AM concerned with and they are as follows and no particular order: 1. Our defense is playing WAY TOO relaxed right now. I was noticing during the game today that we were blitzing our OLB most of the day and that left only one in the middle. That is partially what HELPED Denver’s running game. By the time their running back got past the line, there wasn’t ANYONE in the secondary to tackle him until 10-15 yards down field. Also, why in the heck did we not put somebody(s) wide when Denver just walked into the end zone on 3rd and goal? I said to myself, “Why did we not have anyone over there? Don’t make it to easy for them guys”, and then the announcer said the EXACT same thing verbatim! I also saw “The Predator” trying to make sacks all day but he was being HELD amlost every other play too. Granted Denver was HOLDING ALL DAY anyway. Last point regarding the defense, is it just me or does it seem when Christ Houston is having a good day, he shuts peopel down and then when he has a CRAPPY day like today, every receiver he goes against smokes himmlike a joint. I’m not too terribly impressed with him. 2. As far as the offense goes, I am not the least bit concerned about the INT Ryan threw. I know he knows he shouldn’t have passed it. Lesson learned..move on. However, why in the world is Turner tip toeing up to the line now? Yes, he scored twice but he didn’t even get 100 yds rushing today. He isn’t making thos cut backs like he was during the first four games when he was averaging 145 or so. He is running right at the line and then stopping. The line was an issue also. That holding call on Clabo HURT US BAD!!! Like I said though, at least this was an AFC loss. As long as we can win out at least 80% of our remaining games then any AFC lose won’t really hurt us. I’m still proud of the Falcons. I always look forward to watching now. Matt Ryan will only get beter. After this year, we need to seriuosly upgrade our secondary and try and get a few more line man in free agency or the draft. We’re heading in the right direction. Will either barely make the playoffs this year or bearly make it this year. Depends on how wee do in our remaining division games. Thankfully we have Tampa and Carolina HERE. All in all, were in good shape for now….GO BIRDS!!!!

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Bugman, used to be a Red wings fan being from DET and all but I still like hockey. Have lived here for 25 years and have been a Falcons fan ever since. Would love to get together for some Monday beers and MNF - where do you go?

By Eric C.

November 16, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Mark

I’m a little confused…didn’t we have a 6 pt lead at half (13-7)? A FG putting us up by 9 would have been great anyway…2 scores is better than one.

I hope the Falcons can quickly refocus for Carolina. As bad as this one hurts…at least it was a non-conference game and won’t hurt in tie-breaker scenarios.

By Bent S.

November 16, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

What I meant to say is that we will either barely MAKE the playoffs or barely MISS the playoffs this year. Sorry guys..didn’t mean to sound like a moron..haha

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Bugman, ITP or OTP??

By Ron Roberts

November 16, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Head-scratcher; we got bowled over by their run-game which consisted of a scout team pickup and a last-minute signee who apparently has a problem stealing his teammates belongings.

There was something off about the whole game; even the dome seemed blase’ through the television. Was it just me or was the crowd a late arrival and just not all that vocal when we were on defense???

Can’t pin this all on Roddy; yeah, the catch was makeable, but it wasn’t a given; maybe we’re getting spoiled by his antics (that’s a good thing). But our defense was awful; I mentioned to a buddy of mine that after the first drive, I don’t tthink the commentators made mention of John Abraham once afterwards. That’s a pretty glaring letdown, if you ask me.

By Bugman

November 16, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

Taco Mac Decatur. Hit me up at gabugman1 at the hoo.

By TURTSNAP

November 16, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

One loss and it brings out the stupidity in some fans. Trade Roddy White? Give me a break!!

This is a young team that wasn’t supposed to be at 6 wins at this point in the season. In fact the majority of the “experts” didn’t have the Falcons winning six games all year. As Mark said, they weren’t, or didn’t appear to be, primed for this game. We all hope they learn from this and move forward. I’m willing to think they will.

By Mark Bradley

November 16, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Eric C.: You’re right. I should have written “six as opposed to nine” points. Not “one as opposed to four.”

You win tonight’s award for fact-checking. I win the award for being an idiot.

(I have, however, corrected myself above.)

By you heard it here first

November 16, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Roddy white missed a pass that cost us the game in the last seconds of the game. it was not the second quarter.He gets paid well to make these kind of catches. he needs to start making catches or ship him out. thats my opinon and i don’t care how likes it or not.that game will hurt us down the strectch run for the play offs

By Mark Bradley

November 16, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Eric C.: Many thanks. I should have said that the first time but was in scramble/correction mode.

By Left to Right

November 16, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else think the Falcons should have been in the hurry-up offense when they got the ball back with 4+ minutes left in the game? I think they should have been hoping for the TD on that possession but thinking 2 FGs would also get them the win.

By crabapplejoe

November 16, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts wrote: “we got bowled over by their run-game which consisted of a scout team pickup and a last-minute signee who apparently has a problem stealing his teammates belongings.” Just curious, who was the scout team pickup….Peyton Hillis is a rookie who has been playing all year. He had 70 all-purpose yards against us today (44 rushing & 26 receiving) playing tailback and fullback including a crucial catch on the last drive. The kids a stud.

By Eric C.

November 16, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Mark

No problem…I think you make a great point about being more aggressive at the end of the half. The Falcons were definitely out-coached in this one.

I had a bad feeling all week the Falcons would not be as focused for this game after beating the Saints and being favored to win. The Falcons need to get that hunger back for the Panthers.

By paul martin

November 16, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

i firmly believe the NFL is a fix. The scores week in and week out are right on the lines and players are great one week and terrible the next (look at Mcnabb). Roddy is a multimillionaire who “drops” a game winning touchdown. Vegas controls who wins and losses. Look at the eagles-come on-cant beat Cincy! To many weird plays and safetys week after week as well as calls that affect the over-under. The over for the Falcons was 51-think about it. Someone needed the under thus the dropped touchdown.

By you heard it here first

November 16, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Left to right—-Falcons did everything right with 4 minutes left.Roddy white just did not make the catch when his defender falls down on a perfect pass.Falcons should be 7-3 and talking play offs.

By Sarah B

November 16, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Bugman, we can continue this dicussion in person… check your mail.

By Mark Bradley

November 16, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

I’d agree that there was no need for a hurry-up offense: The Falcons took the ball with 5:32 left and three timeouts remaining. They got where they needed to go in plenty of time. They just didn’t finish the drive.

Heck, had Roddy White caught the ball, we might have been complaining that they’d scored too soon.

By you heard it here first

November 16, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Paul martin——You may be on to something.

By Ron Roberts

November 16, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Crabapplejoe:P.J. Pope had 4 carries for 35 yards, after being activated from the Broncos’ practice squad November 4th.

By sachs

November 16, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

Where is or yet what happened to Laurent Robinson? I don”t understand why this reciever does not get playing time and when he is in the game the QB does not even look his way’ I see that he is on special teams and that he did have a potential touch down saving tackle on a kick return. He has excellent speed, good hands, and good size to be able to contribute to this team.Give him the opportunity to play!

By btwarren

November 16, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

I think this game will go a long way to making the Falcons a better team. Things were going too good for Ryan. Everybody telling him how good he is. Sometimes you have to make some mistakes to learn from them. That interception was something to learn from. But on a larger note, this team is missing two important things that maybe we can fix for next season. No i’m not cashing in this season, far from, but just thiking ahead beasue these two things would have made a world of difference in this game. We need someone else besides Abraham to get at the QB. With more pressure Cutler doesn’t complete some of those passes and DB like Houston maybe don’t get burned on 50 yard pass plays. I actually did not think that was bad D on that play. And we need a punt returner. Seems simple enough but we can’t seem to get someone to make the right decisions. Douglas’ fair catch right before the half was insance, there was plenty of room to run. Maybe could have gotten close enough for a field goal attempt. But again this is a learning experience for them and based on what I have seen so far, they are learning from mistakes.

By Bo

November 16, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Man, I hate to lose but thats part of the game. No one person won or lost the game, its a team effort for 4 quarters. It happens sometimes the best team loses, get over it and kick some a@@ next week. The Falcons are on the right path. We’ll only get better. God Bless the USA. Thanks Mark for Great post on Braves and Falcons.

By Mark Bradley

November 16, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Bo. And thanks to one and all for participating.

And with that, I’m off to bed. Us old folks need our sleep.

By monty

November 16, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

Today was a learning experience they will I believe be better off for it. THEy now know that they have to stay hungry and can’t get “happy.” They aren’t good ehough to show up and give a less than best effort and win . A few teams might can do that, but we can’t. We need to play like our life depends on it.

No pass rush today and their receivers were open all day long. I also believe they would have won even if Roddy catches the ball because we have proven ineffective at stopping the pass when we don’t get pressure.

By WAFFLE HOUSE GRITZ BLITZ

November 16, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

I saw on ESPN earlier in the week where a few security guards at the Atlanta airport were upset that Falcon receivers were now catching passes unlike when Vick was QB. (It was a bit racist to me)

So I hope those people are happy that White went back and played like the Vick era today.

It led to a Vick like result - A LOSS!!!

By GODAWGZ

November 16, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Even though the Falcons lost today, you have to be excited about what you see. A year ago this team would have folded up the tents and went home after the first 3 and out. The lead changed a hundred times in the game and the Falcons were in it until the last second. It would have been quite a catch for Roddy to haul that one in, but I know that he could have made it. He still played a hell of a game and the Falcons are obviously headed in the right direction.

By e.b.

November 17, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

Stop griping about Roddy, he’s been golden all year…even won a few games for this team. It didn’t come down to one catch. It came down to Atlanta lets Denver make some big plays, and the “D” let us down today. Gotta come back strong next week. That one is huge!!

By Hillbilly Deluxe

November 17, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

Give Roddy White credit for stepping up. It wasn’t his fault they lost and at least he didn’t point fingers. That’s what would have happened with some past players.

By ant banks

November 17, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this

for all of the people b-tching about this loss, please remembeer that we were not suppose to win that chicago game. if you are goin’ to take those types of wins, you have to take these types of losses,

By deac

November 17, 2008 3:09 AM | Link to this

good grief. enough with the reactionary belly aching… no one’s happy when a WR drops a potential game-winning pass, but when (seemingly) half of the posts demand that he be traded or cut, it makes it hard for me to defend against criticisms of Atlanta as a sorry sports town with uneducated and/or exceedingly fickle fans. I’m not a Roddy apologist—he should have caught that pass—but he is the only legitimate receiving threat we have, and will continue to improve.

By Jim Kent

November 17, 2008 5:49 AM | Link to this

From a Bronco Fan in Denver: I was surprised that Denver beat Atlanta since a big share of the Bronco starting lineup were new. It appears that the Falcons are a good team and are on the way to becoming a great team. They could have and should have won.

By Tom K

November 17, 2008 6:09 AM | Link to this

First off, Denver beat us, plain and simple.

But here’s something I’ve noticed about our schedule this year that although subtle, makes things just a little more difficult for the Birds. We’ve now played our 3rd game against an opponent who’s had extra time to prepare for the game. Even coming off our bye week, we had to face Philly who had the prior week off too.

Philly, New Orleans and now Denver. Those extra days off seemed to help Denver rest up and do a better job of preparation for yesterday’s game.

By George

November 17, 2008 7:18 AM | Link to this

One thing I noticed. the bronco’s didn’t miss a tackle all day..one on one they stopped us. we didn’t do the same. we had way too many missed tackles given the bronco’s an extra 10-15 yards. no return at end of half didn’t make sense. and as for r. white. nobody catches them all. give slack when deserved. the kid has kept us in the game all year. why the hurry up offense when we made a first down and they stop the clock to move the chains// that doesn’t make sense. I still see great things for this team

By N2Pain

November 17, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this

Don’t bash Shoddy White, he’s the best receiver we have. Falcons need Calvin Johnson but it is what it is. Jamaal Anderson has gone invisible again. Hope the Falcons get Tech’s Michael Johnson in the draft. Best DE available to replace Anderson.

By David

November 17, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

Offensive line played with no intensity.

Coach Smith should’ve called the TO at the end of the half, we would’ve had one play and one more timeout to possibly get a FG. That cost us. You have to go for the points.

By borodawg

November 17, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this

Dont blame White nor Houston. The whole team lost this one. The Number One reason was no running game. Or, just a little too lethargic overall. Or, they might have won without the interception; the game was that evenly played. Mr Bradley is spot on with his analysis. CMS will get them ready for the Panthers. Gooo Falcons!

By TURTSNAP

November 17, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this

Several of you guys complained of the “no punt return” at the end of the first half. I can’t say for sure, but am pretty sure that call came from the bench. Harry Douglas is a new punt returner, and the Falcons had an all out punt block on. They were not set up for a return. So, while Harry did have 10-15 yards to run with, I do think he was told on the bench to call a fair catch.

By littlebird

November 17, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this

I had that feeling that the Birds were taking Denver too lightly. Try keeping your head in the game at hand … any Sunday any team can win regardless of their record or stats … REMEMBER THAT and play like you are hungry for a win, not that you think the other team will lie down at the sight of you. Maybe this was a GOOD LOSS if there is anything to be learned by losing!!!!

By Mark Bradley

November 17, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this

Let me explain about Douglas and the fair catch: The only way a team can take a free kick — the Falcons were hoping to try a field goal from the line of scrimmage without the Broncos rushing, as opposed to the usual routine — is after a fair catch. Douglas was ordered by Smith to fair-catch the ball no matter what. Trouble was, the punt carried too far for the field goal/free kick to be a reasonable option. (It would have been a 66-yarder.)

By Matt Yoder

November 17, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

Man today sucked a fat one!!!! ;( But folks,we have got a team we need to be proud of! When they lose there is no pointing fingers amongst these guys! This is a class act of a team and you guys bashing Roddy White need to get a serious grip! He is the one guy who defended Vick that I consider a classy gifted player! We’ll get em next week! Remember, Indy has the same record that we do! That wasn’t predicted by many ;-) GO FALCONS!!!

By nativebird

November 17, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

Spot on. Not the end of the world, but this team NEEDS to learn from this. Yes, Smitty is playing with house money, but with his substantial NFL experience, he should know that beating low expectations in this league does NOT afford a long leash very long. Expectations change rapidly in the NFL.

the fact that this young team with all it’s blather about T.E.A.M. and “buying in” for the last week and 1/2, actually started reading its press clippings, and NFL Network interviews, and ACTUALLY were covered on ESPN as a legitimate contender, is someting I did NOT think was in this team. but this reminds us that will all young (1 - 2 years out of college)football teams, these 22 - 25 year old ego-maniacs just CANT HELP themselves. fat and sassy is right. I was there. They came out FLAT and UNINSPIRED. something i never thought I’d see a Smitty team do.
He better address THAT more than x’s and o’s…and better do it quick.

By RaySkee

November 17, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

The Falcons play better when they are not expected to win. They’ll be the underdogs this week. So Let’s Go Kick Some Panther Butt!

By rob

November 17, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

I havent seen so many ancient Broncos T shirts and jerseys in one place since the last star trek convention. In a way Im glad for the loss . It will weed out all the band wagon fans that showed up this week . Hey one game wonders (and you know who you are if your not sure your probhably ragging on this very talented young team). WE THE REAL FANS dont want or need you at the game next week. Id sooner sit next to a real carolina fan than one of you . GO FALCONS !

By SimpleDawg

November 17, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

From where I was sitting in the Ga. Dome yesterday, it was obvious that Denver’s defensive line whipped our offensive line, and Denver’s offensive line whipped our defensive line. They got too much penetration on our running plays, pressured our QB on almost every passing play, and we couldn’t get close enough to Cutler to hit him with a rock. That was the story of the game, not a pass that wasn’t caught, or a field goal attempt. Period. If you’re B!+*#!^@ about anything other than line play, then you don’t know what you’re watching.

By Zoomie

November 17, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Falcons defense very lethargic Sunday. Slow, no pass rush, weak against the run, lots of missed tackles. Offense played well against a very aggressive Broncos defense. Roddy White is a great receiver who had less than a stellar day against, again, a very aggressive defense. Given the Broncos’ injury situation, they basically fielded a team that no one had seen. I think our defense was lethargic because they (including coaching staff) were confused. Any defensive preparation for this game by the Falcons’ coaching staff was for naught, because the Denver team that showed up, and the subsequent changes in game plan and player tendencies, haven’t been available for study on film. Huge props to Denver for lighting a fire under their defense, and executing a great offensive game plan with a thrown-together personnel package. Also, congratulations to the Broncos for their ability to commit offensive holding so frequently without getting caught by the officials. Atlanta was caught off-guard, but I don’t think it will happen again.

By JohnGTFan

November 17, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

For all you idiots (yes, you truly are) that blame Roddy White for this game, you need your heads examined! And trade him? That is one of the dumbest people ever…whoever it was that commented that. I be you love T.O. and think he’s a GREAT receiver (leads the league in drops every year). Anyway, the offensive line and defense deserves this loss. But when you think about it…as bad as they all played, they still had a shot to win. That says a lot about this young team. Even on an off day, they are still right there with a shot at the end. I agree the decision to take a knee was a mistake, but people need to remember we have a rookie “head coach” as well. He WILL learn from it. This is going to be a great organization for years to come. Too many cry-babies in ATL.

By Jeff George

November 17, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

You guys can’t win anything without me.

By Hollywould

November 17, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

Is anyone else who was at the game as pi**ed as me that the Falcons will not show replays? These amateurs never showed the Roddy White drop ever!!! We did not even get a replay on the challenge of Ryan until it was over. I just fired off an angry e-mail to the Falcons(lot of good that will do) We answer their questionaires and tell them what we want and nothing changes. Anybody else feel like I do? If so, send them an e-mail. We get treated like 2nd hand people even though we are paying everyone’s salary. Hell, I have been to games in at least 10 other stadiums and all show replays.

By sharica

November 17, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

By GThugs , I am going to disagree with you. Roddy didn’t lose this game, the defense did. And if the defense would have done their part and not let the broncos come back down the field on 3rd and long. We could still be celebrating a win. The defense sucked and the offense did the part.

By falcon

November 17, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Why weren’t we able to run the ball yesterday against the Broncos? Everyone else does. Malarky must have convinced his own team that we could not block them. He opened the game, pass, pass, pass, punt. The Broncos started at their 40 and drove the short field and scored on their 1st possession. It set the tone for the entire game.

By Space Mountain

November 17, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

We will see how they respond to this loss in their next game. No one likes to lose, but they had plenty of opportunities to win this one. They had an early lead. They just could not hold on to it. Neither team laid down to the other. It was a hard fought loss. Cant wait to see the birds next week.

By VickBeliever

November 17, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

You Matt Ryan lovers crack me up. You wanted him so bad and when the TEAM wins game he is the Great White Hope. Then the TEAM looses and everybody gets the blame but Matt (interception throwing) Ryan. Even the clowns on 790thezone will not say anything negative about the choir boy. If we have to depend on Matt Ryan to win games for us we will continue to only win 6 to 7 games a year.

By Falcons84

November 17, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

Ok, Roddy White had a bad day today and still got us a 100 yards. No other falcon will get us a 100 yards on a bad day. He had a drop that could have one a game, but guess what he never lost us the game. With out him we’d be 3-7 so Shut Up about trading or benching him. Roddy White is are best reciever, an elite reciever in this league, oh and one of our top 5 players. Maybe some other people can step up regularly. Forget about the catch White and keep making plays for us!!

By Space Mountain

November 17, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Did anybody see the stats for Michael Vick yesterday. Oh that’s right HE IS IN A FEDERAL PRISON!!!!!!

By VickBeliever

November 17, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Space Mountain you are a complete idiot!!!!Had Mike Vick been there yesterday we probably would have won. By the way how was your KKK meeting this morning?

By Samuel Davis

November 17, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Say what you will about the denver lost. But my thinking is there’s no consistency by the defensive line other than Abraham. We have to address that in the off season. Jamal Anderson is short of a bust Keith Brookings, Michael Boley and Lawyer miloy are players you have to give a long look at……..

By BIGEASY830

November 17, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

I was in Dallas yesterday and missed the game, but from the highlights I can tell that the Falcons again were well prepared to play in that game as the old saying goes, “Any Given Sunday” we lost that one plain and simple, don’t know how many more we will win this season but this is a very good up and coming team and franchise. I said it from the beginnig of the year the one thing that will help this city get over MV7 is to just win games, well the Falcons have been doing that, barring injury Matt Ryan is the QB of the Falcons and will be hopefully for a long time. He does not have the strongest arm in the NFL but he is a baller not just for a rookie but a baller period. We still don’t have all the pieces in place but next year during free agency and the draft I am confident we will put things together. Carolina has been looking shakey even though they have been winning games so next week in the Dome will be off the chain.

By Mark Bradley

November 17, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

The Falcons will have many, many decisions to make about their defense this offseason. More than half the unit will become free agents.

By ADL

November 17, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

If Vick had been there yesterday, it wouldn’t have made any difference. He would have been watching from the stands like all the other NON-PLAYERS. Arthur Blank has already said there is no place in the Falcons organization for Michal Vick. Get over it.

I was very surprised the Falcons didn’t go for the long field goal right before the half. As a longtime Bronco fan, I know how far can Jason Elam can kick, especially indoors. Prator couldn’t hit from 28 yards yesterday, there was little chance of the Broncos turning around and hitting a long field goal.

To DenverBird, at least you are in Colorado. If your team loses you can still go skiing!!!!

By Space Mountain

November 17, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

OMG. VickBeliever. The fact is your boy was not there yesterday he was washing pots and pans at Leavenworth federal penitentary because he is an idiot. None of the people I ever looked up to or was a fan of was a criminal. KKK meeting? Whatever world you have come from please go back to so you do not infect the rest of humanity. Racism is a joke just like you.

By Stephen

November 17, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

I was at the game on yesterday and I agree with many of the bloggers who stated that Roddy White’s drop, at the end of the game, did not totally cost the Falcons the win. The defensive corners are a joke and just can’t compete with players who are 6’2” and up and more physical when our corners are 5’9” and 5’10” respectively. Hopefully the Falcons will address this during the off season. I must also add that I like the progress and direction of the team so far this season. GO FALCONS!!!!

By ADL

November 17, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

To VickBeliever,

If Mike Vick was there yesterday the outcome would have been the same. He would have been sitting in the stands with all the other NON-Players. Arthur Blank has said that Mike Vick does NOT fit into the future plans of the Falcons.

I believe that is called CHANGE…get used to it.

By VickBeliever

November 17, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Yeah you are right there has been change ADL. I happy about the direction the Falcons are taking right now. Trust me Vick will be back and all of you people will see what we had. Space Mountain I really get a kick out of people like you who think racism does not exist. It is so mind boggling that you people carefully choose your words when speaking of the Great White Hope when he clearly did not have a good game.

By stendec

November 17, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Panthers officially end Cinderella season! Will it be another key drop by MV7 groupie? Another Keith “No Tackle” Brooking and friends defensive meltdown? Unaggressive playcalling from Mike Petrino? Special team miscues? Falcons will play just good enough to lose close. Apologists will point to next game then next as losing streak grows. The 6-3 feel good start (which should have been 7-3 with playoff implications) becomes 9-7 or 8-8 final record. Dense Falcon fans will proclaim wonderful success in rebuilding season. Defeats should never be embraced! True fans will point to stumble after solid start. Yes, all professional sports outcomes are fixed. Have my suspicions about college!

By VickBeliever

November 17, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

Great Post stendec……..

By cityofdecatur

November 17, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Momma said there would be days like this (just never said how many). We can grow from this and even if we lost all our remaining games (won’t happen) we are still an improvement over last year. If (and I do believe it will happen) we win at least 3 more games we still out do the last 2 dog killer years. The process is in place and everyone associated with this team is in on the learning curve. Fans, coaches, players and front office. KEEP THE PROCESS MOVING FORWARD let us learn from our mistakes and SUPPORT OUR FALCONS. Forget about the haters such as Vicksupporter (racists of the worse kind), forget the naysayers like stendec, ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE eliminate the negative and GO FALCONS. 11-6 MAKES PLAYOFFs still very possible I BELIEVE do you believe

By STH

November 17, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

i think coach smith is and will be one of the great coaches, but not until he learns to play the 2cnd half like the first half. Quit trying to run the clock out at the beginning of the 3rd quarter. play aggressive all the way and quit laying down. quit trying to run run run and throw deep or atleast throw in the 3rd quarter and maybe the fourth too. we could have won this game with a defense that fought in 4th quarter or a reciever that can catch. ryan makes white look great when white is mearly good. there was no reason he shouldnt have caught 4 more pass’ one for a game winniong td. white drops the most important pass’ if we had marshall we win by 10 points.

By STH

November 17, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

i think coach smith is and will be one of the great coaches, but not until he learns to play the 2cnd half like the first half. Quit trying to run the clock out at the beginning of the 3rd quarter. play aggressive all the way and quit laying down. quit trying to run run run and throw deep or atleast throw in the 3rd quarter and maybe the fourth too. we could have won this game with a defense that fought in 4th quarter or a reciever that can catch. ryan makes white look great when white is mearly good. there was no reason he shouldnt have caught 4 more pass’ one for a game winniong td. white drops the most important pass’ if we had marshall we win by 10 points.

By STH

November 17, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

i think coach smith is and will be one of the great coaches, but not until he learns to play the 2cnd half like the first half. Quit trying to run the clock out at the beginning of the 3rd quarter. play aggressive all the way and quit laying down. quit trying to run run run and throw deep or atleast throw in the 3rd quarter and maybe the fourth too. we could have won this game with a defense that fought in 4th quarter or a reciever that can catch. ryan makes white look great when white is mearly good. there was no reason he shouldnt have caught 4 more pass’ one for a game winniong td. white drops the most important pass’ if we had marshall we win by 10 points.

By STH

November 17, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

i think coach smith is and will be one of the great coaches, but not until he learns to play the 2cnd half like the first half. Quit trying to run the clock out at the beginning of the 3rd quarter. play aggressive all the way and quit laying down. quit trying to run run run and throw deep or atleast throw in the 3rd quarter and maybe the fourth too. we could have won this game with a defense that fought in 4th quarter or a reciever that can catch. ryan makes white look great when white is mearly good. there was no reason he shouldnt have caught 4 more pass’ one for a game winniong td. white drops the most important pass’ if we had marshall we win by 10 points.

By STH

November 17, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

i think coach smith is and will be one of the great coaches, but not until he learns to play the 2cnd half like the first half. Quit trying to run the clock out at the beginning of the 3rd quarter. play aggressive all the way and quit laying down. quit trying to run run run and throw deep or atleast throw in the 3rd quarter and maybe the fourth too. we could have won this game with a defense that fought in 4th quarter or a reciever that can catch. ryan makes white look great when white is mearly good. there was no reason he shouldnt have caught 4 more pass’ one for a game winniong td. white drops the most important pass’ if we had marshall we win by 10 points.

By STH

November 17, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

i think coach smith is and will be one of the great coaches, but not until he learns to play the 2cnd half like the first half. Quit trying to run the clock out at the beginning of the 3rd quarter. play aggressive all the way and quit laying down. quit trying to run run run and throw deep or atleast throw in the 3rd quarter and maybe the fourth too. we could have won this game with a defense that fought in 4th quarter or a reciever that can catch. ryan makes white look great when white is mearly good. there was no reason he shouldnt have caught 4 more pass’ one for a game winniong td. white drops the most important pass’ if we had marshall we win by 10 points.

By DandyDon

November 17, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

All of you fools who are dogging Roddy White obviously aren’t really football-intelligent. You come on this blog and just post the first silly thing that pops into your tiny brains. White has grown in the past three years. He’s on the verge of becoming Pro Bowl material. All the greats have drops. T.O., Ocho Cinco, Harrison, Welker…all of them. It happens. It’s life. Get over it, dummies. Move on. Carolina next Sunday.

By bucko

November 17, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

We have a play off O but we do not have a play off D. I think we are long ways from having a tough D.

By bucko

November 17, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

We have a play off O but we do not have a play off D. I think we are long ways from having a tough D.

By Vick Supporter

November 17, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

@All Fake A$$ Falcon Fans, especially count_schemula. I see that you made the comment that Vick “threw too hard”,LMAO!! That has to be the dumbest comment I’ve read this week, which is a weekly occurence on these blogs. The team is succeding because they actually have a good coaching staff and GM. I read a comment from someone on here about our former coaches, Moron and Quitrino, if you people have any kind of sense, you will realize that all of the blame for the Falcons past failings as a TEAM wasn’t all The Great Mike Vick’s fault. If you haven’t heard, Greg Knapp has been fired as a playcaller for the Raiders, but I’m sure that doesn’t mean anything to you Falcon fans. Your rationale is to just blame it all on #7 and not anything on the rest of the team or upper management. Also, Roddy White defended Vick because he knows Vick is a great QB. He admitted that he let Vick down numerous times, yet Vick always came to him with the football. The coaching here in the Vick Era was terrible except for Dan Reeves, but you stupid a¤¤ fans complained because Reeves style of coaching wasnt exciting enough for you,lol. What a bunch of loser fans. I hate the Falcons because they LET IT BE THE MIKE VICK SHOW TO FILL THE STADUIM. VICK CARRIED THIS DAMN FRANCHISE AND YOU KNOW, THEN WHEN THINGS GET BAD, THE ORGANIZATION FINALLY REALIZES THAT MCKAY SUCKS AS A GM AND THEY ACTUALLY NEED GOOD COACHING AND NOW THEY NEED TO PLAY AS A TEAM. Where was that when #7 was here. Man F the Falcons

By Turd Ferguson

November 17, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

STH…chill out on the hitting the “post button”. The Falcons will bounce back. Attitude is everything and the birds got it this year. The one thing you don’t have to worry about is guys “giving up” or feeling sorry for themselves. We have a lot of the fans who love to be critics about the defense and play calling when we lose but if Roddy catches that pass then he is a hero and nobody has anything negative to say. The final score doesn’t do us justice and show how well we fought. It’s the NFL man…Any Given Sunday

By Turd Ferguson

November 17, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter- Unfortunately, you will die an angry person. Jesus loves you!

By kappellmeister

November 17, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

One thing I believe is that all of you Brooking haters out there ought to admit the man played a hell of a game yesterday. For all the complaints about him being so slow, he totally ran down their swift kick-returner (name escapes me) short of the first-down marker on that reverse yesterday, AND he made a great stop on third-and-goal which caused the Broncs to kick a field goal. Rag on him if he’s bad on a given day, but where’s his props today? The man has been a stalwart member of the Birds’ D through thick and thin over the last decade and deserves a little cred!

By Vick Supporter

November 17, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

@Turd Ferguson. You know its the truth. Please elaborate if you don’t agree.

By webhead

November 17, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

We finally have a good football team. One we can be proud of after these last few years. And all most of you do here is complain. If they don’t win 1 more game this will have been a great season .We finally have a “real” NFL qb. A “real” NFL running game with real running backs and “real” NFL coaches. Be proud of this team like real fans are

By webhead

November 17, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

We finally have a good football team. One we can be proud of after these last few years. And all most of you do here is complain. If they don’t win 1 more game this will have been a great season .We finally have a “real” NFL qb. A “real” NFL running game with real running backs and “real” NFL coaches. Be proud of this team like real fans are

By Barry

November 17, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

“ONE HEARTBEAT!!! We win and we lose with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!”.

This game was a slow paced game, from the offensive standpoint, that does not fit the new Falcons character. The usually play better faced paced, throwing and running. Instead the offense got the ball and, shockingly, started throwing 2 and 3 yard passes instead of running the ball. This is totally out of characteristic of what we were doing all season. If we wanted to throw the ball in the beginning of the first half, the passes should have been for 20 an 30 yards or more. Not 2 and three yards to start the game. I am not a professional at this but maybe Mularkey can explain this tactic to us. Moreover, Denvers secondary was horrible. We could have passed on them all day deep. We rarely went deep throughout the game until the last seconds of the fourth quarter which Roddy dropped. There was more opportunity than that to bomd Denver. It looked like we were giving them the game. This was the first time that I was not in sinc with the enthusiasm and momentum of the game. Something was missing. Maybe, with all the Falcon alumni’s down here may have ddistracted our young players and new coaches. But I do know they were not play calling aggressively to score as in our previous games. However, this season I know our team and coaches are going through the process of learning how to win every week and we are on a good path towards that, one game at a time. Our next game against Carolina, at home, I am confident the distrations are gone and we can get back in beat with “ONE HEART BEAT!!!”. I am confident Carolina know we owe them one. We can not play call passively agaainst them. We got to play to “WIN” with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!! Let’s take no prisoners in our process of learning how to play and win every game with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” We, the fans, are with you. We feel the lost and it’s like we let that one get away. However, it a new week were we play a new team. I am confident what ever went wrong the coaches are determined to fix it. ANd I look forward to our caging the Panthers in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!” WE ARE ONE AND WE ARE MAD. CAROLINA YOU GOT IT COMING: IN “OUR HOUSE”.

SEE Y’ALL AT THE DOME!!!!

GO FALCONS!!!!

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!"

Ringold

By PatrickMcE

November 17, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

I had and odd feeling about this game. With all of the attention the team had been receiving from the national media, a big home win against a division opponent, an out of conference foe, and the division leaders coming to town the following week there was quite a few variables to influence the psyche of a young team.

These Falcons aren’t the old Falcons because they were in the game the whole time and just came up short of a victory.

Some of you folks seem to enjoy bashing the team more than supporting it, but I was with Bradley and thought they would only win 5 games all season, the fact that we are in the playoff hunt going into the last part of the season is a pleasant surprise. I look forward to every game.

By Tre

November 17, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

For all of the get rid of Roddy White people….Let’s fet rid of Brian Finneran also…the white boy definitely dropped an easier TD than Roddy in the Philly game…..

By Mark Bradley

November 17, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

To Patrick McE: I agree about the vibe heading into yesterday’s game. It was a bit of a trap, coming as it did between the Saints and Panthers games, and Denver being understaffed probably worked against the Falcons, as silly as that might sound.

By BOB

November 17, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

No pass rush lost the game

By BOB

November 17, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

No pass rush lost the game

By jc_dawgs

November 17, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

When you are on your own 44 yd line and your opponents weakness is its defense…you do not kneel down with 13 seconds to go in the half. Not when your opponent had only 3 ints all year and you have a kicker in Elam…who can kick it from 50 yds easily.

“You play to win the game”…not to keep from losing it.

100% for 4qtrs….playing…coaching…scheming.

By Turd Ferguson

November 17, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Tre-Thanks for letting us know that Finneran is white Captain Obvious. His skin color probably had a lot to do with that dropped pass. Racist. Finn had 4 big catches Sunday which helped keep the drives going.

By David

November 17, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Tough loss. But everyone needs to take a deep breath… I’ve been a Falcon fan for 30 years and definitely grown to be an “optimist” each year. However, I’ve learned not to get over excited about the season. Yes, we are playing much better than the so-called experts said we would, but most of us realized that we DID have a good team and we would win more than 3 games this year. That being said… we will not win every game, but at least we are competitive each week and have had a chance each week to win. I’ve gotten really excited with each win and felt we could run the table here on out, but we’ve got to check our emotions at the door and enjoy this season because it is NOT just a transition season with only 3 wins. (just remember how you felt last year at this time)
In addition… Just think how great Matt Ryan will be once the NFL “slows” down for him in the next few years.
The Falcons will be just fine. GO FALCONS

By mtb

November 17, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

By Falconfan

November 16, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

Does anybody agree that we should get rid of Chris Houston? I mean, week after freaking weak this dude gives up a huge pass play by not playing the ball. Instead, this idiot is looking at the wide receiver and playing the receiver instead of the ball. Had he been playing the ball instead of Marshall in the 3rd Quarter, he probably would have knocked the ball down or intercepted the ball instead of them completing a 50-yard pass and then move on to score a damn touchdown! Get rid of Houston, and get a better cornerback on the right side dammit!

I don’t know what you saw but on that play the bigger guy just made a good play. Houston couldn’t play it any tighter than he did. I guess you rather let Marshall get outside of him right? Please!!! You obviously don’t have a clue about football. It was a perfect pass and Marshall did a great job boxing out Houston.

By mtb

November 17, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

I hope the posters that want to trade Roddy are just joking but I doubt it. This crowd of fair weather fans makes it hard to be a Falcon fan. Roddy drops a pass you want to trade him. You throw more stupid insults at him by calling him a thug for supporting Vick.

You all are pathetic excuses for Falcon fans. I bet many of you are mad that ATL traded Farve in the 90s and think he’s such a standup guy. He has had problems with drinking when he was here, and pain killers when he was at Green Bay, but he’s not a thug? Stupid people with stupid post. I guess that goes to show how far a 3rd education can get some people

By Andy

November 17, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Hey rms…

That missed White non-TD would’ve put us up by 4. Denver would’ve had to score a TD with about 1:30 left and no time outs.

Not saying it couldn’t happen, but we would’ve had a substantial advantage at that point.

By Larry

November 17, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

There are a few plays each game that can go either way. On Atlanta’s final drive, a Denver linebacker should have intercepted a slant route but he dropped it even though it should have been an easy catch. As far as White goes, give him a break. It was not an easy catch. I’m a Denver fan but it’s good to see Atlanta playing good football. Your quarterback is the real deal and Turner is a monster back. Good luck for the rest of this season.

By tru fan

November 17, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

at least this year wer’e not seeing “same old Falcons!” we are at least in every game…win or lose. Look, we’re still in playoff race, got a 6-4 record and division championship is still not out of the question. Everything that has happened to the Falcons last year, from whats his name leaving with 3 games left, loosing a quarterback who couldnt take us to a superbowl (not alone winning it), to parcells not taking the job. Things are lined up for the Falcons being contenders every year…great running back, great “rookie” QB and a great reciever (even though that one yesterday got thru he’s still one of the NFL’s best this year) The true Falcons fans have a lot to look forward to for a long time. 70’s had the Steelers…80’s the Cowboys..90’s the 49ers…00’s the Pats…10’s….FALCONS

By tru fan

November 17, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

at least this year wer’e not seeing “same old Falcons!” we are at least in every game…win or lose. Look, we’re still in playoff race, got a 6-4 record and division championship is still not out of the question. Everything that has happened to the Falcons last year, from whats his name leaving with 3 games left, loosing a quarterback who couldnt take us to a superbowl (not alone winning it), to parcells not taking the job. Things are lined up for the Falcons being contenders every year…great running back, great “rookie” QB and a great reciever (even though that one yesterday got thru he’s still one of the NFL’s best this year) The true Falcons fans have a lot to look forward to for a long time. 70’s had the Steelers…80’s the Cowboys..90’s the 49ers…00’s the Pats…10’s….FALCONS

By mars

November 17, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

I agree mtb. Chris Houston, though questionable in the past, came to play Sunday. He saved us from a couple of long runs by stepping up and hitting the running back (one hit making a pretty impressive noise through my TV speakers. And yes, Roddy should have caught that ball. Most of the time he does though. He’s matured greatly and is a huge part of the Bird’s success. I, for one, am glad he’s a Falcon.

By mars

November 17, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

Well, I agree somewhat. Didn’t read all your post.

By mars

November 17, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

Vick Believer, 6 or 7 games a year should be what you are used to after the last 4 years. As long as there are some exciting runs, huh? Look, I was a Vick fan as well (was), but it is time to move on. How about showing a little class by giving credit where it’s due? Of course that DOES require a little class.

By Mark Bradley

November 17, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

I seem to recall Chris Houston making a fairly important interception in the end zone against New Orleans nine days ago.

By mars

November 17, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

And obviously racism is alive and well. Just like others on these pages, both white and black, you seem to be a pretty good practitioner of the art. I, on the other hand, choose not to. Don’t be offended by those who attempt to rise above it. Jeez, you’d thnk more people would try.

By mars

November 17, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Tired….long day. Let me get off this thing before I become irritable. Chin-up, everyone. It’s going to be all right, for a change. Except you people full of hate. I see nothing good in your future. Later.

By chris deighan

November 17, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

I think Roddy White will be a pro bowl receiver this year and probably several times over the next seven or eight seasons; especially with Ryan continuing to the throw the ball to him. I wish White would have caught the ball but he didnt.

I also wish Ryan would have hit a wide-open Finneran in the end zone in the second quarter, but he didn’t.

And I wish team would have called timeout immediately after sacking Cutler right before halftime so they would have had time to run two plays before the gun, but they didn’t.

And I wish Clabo wouldn’t have got a holding penalty to screw up the final drive, but he did.

And I wish Anderson wouldn’t have taken an inside rush on the final Cutler touchdown pass, but he did.

And I wish the Birds were 7-3 now, but they aren’t.

But I have no doubt they’ll be 7-4 after next week.

By MWC

November 17, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Chris Houston is playing great football, so is Roddy… do you na sayers want utopia?? Ride the wave man and just enjoy having a pro team back…

By spiffoman

November 17, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

calm down people, we’re OVER .500 at this point of the season (more than any NFL fan expected). don’t tell me they need to get rid of roddy white cause of the dropped catch. if you do, you’re an idiot who, like many people said 17 years ago, said to get rid of a player who made a mistake(s). the last time i heard this was about favre, anybody remember him? i’m not saying white has HOF capability like favre, but he’s the best reciever we’ve had in a LONG time and matt ryan will be throwing a lot of touchdowns to him over the next few years. and last i checked he’s in the top 5 of almost any WR stat. who wants to get rid of that?

By Fratuszewski

November 17, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Jesus Christ, its nice to see how fast the whole entire city of Atlanta will turn around. Half of you could be bigger fans before kickoff on Sunday. Now you think they are the worse team in football. Coach Smith and Matt Ryan and all the other have finally made Falcon football worth watching. I would much rather lose a game in the last 11 seconds with a chance to win then the blowouts we saw with previous years. I for one will still support the Falcons and am more than impressed with what this still young team has accomplished this season. There are big things to come out of this team.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 17, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

BOO HOO HOO

ALL YOU REDNECKS ARE PATHETIC——-SHUT THE F UP!

I SAY TRADE RODDY/NORWOOD/TURNER/ABRAHAM/JENKINS/BOLEY/GRADY

————KEEP————-

LEAF/FINISHMAN/BROKENS/SHATTERED BAKER

IF WHITE HAD MISSED THE SEASON, YOU IDIOTS WOULD BE LOOKING AT 0-10

IF THAT BIATCH LEAF

WOULD NOT HAVE OVERTHROWN THE OPEN RECEIVERS, AND DON’T FORGET THAT GIFT WRAPPED PICK….THE FALCONS WOULD HAVE WON BY HALF TIME…..

THAT WORTHLESS LOSER COULDN’T HIT A RECEIVER IF HE HAD AN “R” ON HIS HELMET

CAN’T READ DEFENSES & OVER THROWING OPEN RECEIVERS = LOSER

DID YOU FOOLS REALLY THINK YOU COULD GET TO THE POSTSEASON WITHOUT MV7 (GOD’S QB):)

By mtb

November 17, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

What’s really disturbing is that the Vick Supporters are doing more harm than good for his already damaged name and the Falcons. I really don’t think he would be too fond of the stupid post that are put up everyday about how bad this team is without him and making things more racially intense than what they already are, and all they do is make the Vick haters and animal rights activists say even worse things about him

It is so hard to enjoy a team that’s playing pretty well when all these fair weather fans begin to cry after every loss and want everybody gone, but I guess that what seperates the true fans from them. Yeah I’m not happy but I’m not ready to trade every player on the team.

By count_schemula

November 17, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

“@All Fake A$$ Falcon Fans, especially count_schemula. I see that you made the comment that Vick “threw too hard”,LMAO!! That has to be the dumbest comment I’ve read this week, which is a weekly occurence on these blogs.”

Hey, VICK SUPPORTER, please show the class where I actually said Vick “threw too hard.”

Oh, you can’t. LMAO!!

Your comments are actually the dumbest in this thread.

By scottbravesfan

November 18, 2008 2:03 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are 6-4 on a year when most people said they would win ONE game all year. Stop your crying Atlanta. You don’t even show up to the games and support the team so you have no right to rip them when they lose.

By Mark

November 18, 2008 2:52 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are not as good as they think they are. The Broncos are better than most think. That game was close only because of some silly play calling by the Broncos in the first half. The Falcons never really stopped Denver all game.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 18, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

CHECK THIS OUT

http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/printedition/2008/11/18/falcons.html

REALITY STINKS

By stendec

November 18, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

I will make this as simple as I can. There is a Helluva lot of difference between 7-3 and 6-4. A 7-3 mark puts you in control of your own playoff destiny so to speak. A 6-4 slate means you are average and nothing more. Plus, a team like the Falcons, which has grown accustomed to losing, believe it is in the DNA, simply cannot afford to lose contests which are more than winnable. Yes, the team is doing much better than ANYONE expected. Myself included. No one knew Matt Ryan would make such an immediate impact or that the defense would not surrender 40 points per game. 500 yards, yes, 40 points, no. In fairness, the Falcons are are playoff team when they play with aggressiveness and determination. The team is a bust when it has mental and physical breakdowns like those in the last loss. Should fans expect playoffs? All depends on the next outing. If team falls to 6-5 then successful feel-good season win-wise becomes failure. *Why, because the team itself should expect more. If team goes to 7-4 then a playoff run is not only possible but probable. Poll question should be “Will” not “Can”. Yes, Falcons can defeat Panthers. Will they? Who knows? That is why loss which most want to sugarcoat distresses all true fans who look at the overall picture. If Falcons miss playoffs by a game I will forever hold Roddy “Butterfingers” White responsible. They paid the guy millions of dollars to do one damn thing! Catch the football. Elite receivers are judged by difficult receptions not easy ones. He failed everyone in the loss. Ryan put the ball where it could be caught. Keith “No Tackle” Brooking will remain a liability to a young defense. He may cost us several losses himself by being blocked out by one man, being out of position or being too damn slow. Oh well. Defend him. I respect what he has done in past but recent play has been embarrassing. Yes, I do watch EVERY play of every game. Have since first season. Oh well, hope Falcons pull it off. Playoffs would be nice. God bless.

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 18, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Hey Vick Supporter2 where have you been? I need your comments in order to make my comments. Whew! At least your ok, you had me worried. Let me know if you ever need my help with anything man, I got your back! I agree with trading away “Matt” Ryan Leaf even if the first NFL pass he made was a 62yrd TD pass. Vick didn’t have the nerves to complete such a pass because he would have scrambled for 20 yards while breaking ankles and twisting knee caps on the way to running out of bounds so he wouldn’t fumble and turn it over. Doesn’t get more productive than that. He knew how to protect the ball. So what if Matt Ryan knows how to read a defense he can’t run like Vick. All this crap about how Ryan is so poised, has great leadership abilities, has great presence in the huddle, great work ethic, fast learner doesn’t mean nothing. Big whoopty f-ing doo! Vick rushed for over a 1,000 yrds on a 7-9 team. A 7-9 Team! WOW! Not to mention Vick= 130 mill and Ryan= 72 mil. Who’s the better QB? I guess only me and VS2 know the correct answer. Go VS2, GO! All the way baby just like Vick! Move out the way Vick Supporter, VS2 is coming through. Vick should not = 130 million dollar inmate. FREE MIKE VICK hurry so we can get back to winning. I don’t get what all the excitment is about this season.

By Pete

November 18, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Nothing the Falcons accomplish will mean or amount to anything until they find an NFL quality PASS RUSH. Currently they are the laughing stock of the league with their ZERO pass rush. Any opposing QB can’t wait to play them and attempt a new NFL passing yardage record. It’s sad, considering how well we have done in all other areas of the game.

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 18, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Boo Vick Supporter Boo! Get out of town. Me, Vick Supporter 2, and Michael Vick don’t need you anymore. You’ve been holding VS2 back for far too long. VS2 will soon take the #1 supporter spot from you. You don’t have what it takes. Your football knowledge is WEAK!!! BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

By TE

November 18, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

ATL Sux in sports, geography, weather, traffic….everything.

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 18, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Hey TE, we had the fastest QB ever on our team. Whatcha got to say about that? Wait until Vick Supporter 2 reads what you had to say. I feel sorry for you. Get em’ VS2 get em’. Don’t say I didn’t warn you TE. VS2 in ‘09 baby YEAH!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 18, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

WHO DO THESE NUMBERS BELONG TO?

VS TAMPA 29 %

VS CAROLINA 60 %

VS PHILLY 68 %

HERE IS A CLUE - HE IS A DROP BACK PASSER :)

By TE

November 18, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t care less about your quarterback issues. I repeat, there isn’t a thing about the city of Atlanta, GA that is worth a dime. You live in the most overrated, undereducated, backward city in America. The rest of the nation laughs at how ridiculous you are in nearly everything you try. (For instance, your emabarrasing hosting of the Olympics.) Your’e a bush league town and always will be. And on a final note, spare me the yankee northerner diatribe (do you know what that means?); that war you lost has been over for more than a century. Good luck, y’all need it (spoken in language you might understand).

By ..National Geographic

November 18, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

TE -IS A SISSY SCARED OF STONE MOUNTAIN. Go back to wear you came from!

By The Rest Of The Nation

November 18, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

ATLANTA is the Greatest City in the Nation

By TE

November 18, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Superb comebacks! Put me right in my place and leaves me reevaluating all of my doubts about your backa*swards city. And if you believe that…..

By mars

November 18, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

OK, VS2. I took a look. So what. Ryan’s a rookie, Vick’s a felon, and you’re buttmustard. What’s your point?

By mars

November 18, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Well?

By Laughingly Similar 2U

November 19, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this

If you stack the box, then you can beat the Falcons? Well, stacking the box leaves open a whole array of offensive plays. Blame this one on the coach.

‘muff said

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 19, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

You tell him Vick Supporter 2! Not only is he a drop back passer, but he will bust on 72 million dollars as well. You see TE, Michael Vick put Atlanta on the map. Without him we would be lost. He took the Falcons to elite status. Now we are the ideal franchise and wrote the book on how to choose a fast QB and win every year like champions. People think you can just put anybody back there behind center and win consistently. In six seasons Vick took the Falcons to the playoffs twice but through his first ten games Ryan hasn’t even thrown for 20 TD’s or 3,000 yds and has a rating just under 90.0 and his completion % is under 60%. ROTY my a$$. I am VS2 #1 fan and I approve this post. VS2 in ‘09 baby, YEAH!!! Watch your back Vick Supporter cuz VS2 is coming for you!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 19, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

TE

WELL SAID - COULDN’T AGREE MORE. THAT’S WHY I LEFT THAT BACKWARDS CITY YEARS AGO.

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 19, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Please come back home VS2, together we can make it right. I didn’t know you used to live here, we could have been hanging out years ago. Cough, Cough, you know what time it is. It’s in the air so come hit it if you want. Me and VS2 rule the world. VS2 in ‘09 baby, YEAH!!! Where he goes I will follow. Hey TE, I warned you about VS2, hope he didn’t make you cry too bad cuz you just got SERVED!!! Nobody should mess with VS2, and thats the bottom line cuz his #1 fan said so. Get out of town Vick Supporter cuz Vick Supporter 2 is taking your spot! Vick in ‘09?

By Boo Boo

November 19, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

As much as I like the guy and love listening to his south Georgia voice on Westwood One, having Dan Reeves anywhere close to an Atlanta Falcons - Denver Broncos game is bad juju for the Falcons. The Falcons did good, only losing by 4 points, with ole Dan broadcasting the game to the boys and girls in Iraq (and elsewhere), sitting next to whatever certificate he got for having led the 1998 team to the Super Bowl. Denver put a curse on Danny, with Shanahan sworn to avenge Dan’s mistreatment of Denver’s hero, John Elway. Obviously, the hex works on Dan’s old teams, now that he has retired. As long as he is in the neighborhood that karma still swirls about. It might be okay for Dan to do an Atlanta - Carolina game, just not an Atlanta - Denver game.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 19, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

TELL ME WHO THESE NUMBERS BELONG TO

VS TAMPA 29%

VS CAROLINA 60%

VS PHILLY 68%

HINT——-72 MILLION DOLLAR BUST :)

—————-THIS WEEK——————-

VS CAROLINA 2……16% :)

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 19, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

A freakin 16.0 QB! Thats flat out sorry. No wonder we were picked to go 1-15. Michael Vick on his best day could easily do better than that. FREE MIKE VICK!!!

By STEPHANIE'S DAD

November 19, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

TELL ME WHO THESE NUMBERS BELONG TO

VS TAMPA 29%

VS CAROLINA 60%

VS PHILLY 68%

HINT——-72 MILLION DOLLAR BUST :)

—————-THIS WEEK——————-

VS CAROLINA 2……16% :)

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 19, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

TELL ME WHO THESE NUMBERS BELONG TO

VS TAMPA 29%

VS CAROLINA 60%

VS PHILLY 68%

HINT——-72 MILLION DOLLAR BUST :)

—————-THIS WEEK——————-

VS CAROLINA 2……16% :)

By Vick Supporter2 fan

November 19, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

I’m confused. Am I a Vick Supporter 2 fan or Stephanie’s Dad fan. Both have such wisdom it’s amazing. Please talk to me VS2. Tell me what to do! I need your guidance.

By Vickscellmate

November 20, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Hey VS2 what kind of numbers do you think MV7 will put up this Sunday? Answer : none he is in prison. Here is another question. What does Ryan Leaf and Michael Vick have in common? Answer : Neither of them play in the NFL. Actually VS2 your new name is Criminalworshipper1. That seems to fit you better.

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