This blog has moved! Yes, already!
As of Thursday, Feb. 12, this little blog has relocated to a new home on AJC.com. It’s the same newspaper, the same Web site and the same writer (feel free to groan) — there’s just a new URL.
New features: Bigger type, more graphics, comments that load 10 times faster and a larger and more recent photo that makes me look pretty doggone old. I think you’ll like it (the blog, not the photo). But I am, as we know too well, often wrong.
Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > December > 29 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USTrip to Arizona a blessing for blessed Falcons
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Flowery Branch — Mike Smith began his postgame walk to the locker room Sunday believing his team would have a week off and then a home playoff game. By the time he reached his destination he’d learned otherwise. And was the Falcons coach disappointed?
“It would have been nice to have a home game with our home-field advantage and the bye week,” Smith said Monday. “That’s definitely an advantage.”
But again we see that some higher power seems to have taken a liking to these bold Birds. Because their reward for finishing second in the NFC South is one of the sweetest consolation prizes in the history of consolation. They get to play Arizona, and here’s what Vegas thinks of the Cardinals: They’re home-field playoff underdogs to the team that only four months ago was the consensus choice as the NFL’s worst.
Sixteen games have taught us these Falcons are much closer to being the league’s best than its worst, and there seems no reason for the happy story to end Saturday in Glendale. Arizona was 6-0 against the NFL’s worst division, 3-7 against real teams. It was 1-4 against playoff qualifiers — the Falcons were 3-2 — and enters the postseason having lost four of six.
If you have to play on an opponent’s field in January, you pray Arizona is the opponent. For all the worry about the Cardinals’ passing — Kurt Warner and three 1,000-yard receivers — they have nothing else. They’ve yielded 101 more points than the Falcons, and Arizona’s running game is the league’s worst. And a team that can’t run is a team that shouldn’t be playing in January.
Smitty being Smitty, he made Arizona sound like the 1966 Packers in his weekly media briefing — “very potent,” he called the Cardinals — but in a private conversation afterward he made it clear that he likes his team’s chances in the month ahead. He was the defensive line coach for the 2000 Baltimore Ravens, a wild-card team that won the Super Bowl, and when a visitor asked if he sees similarities in these Falcons, he said this: “I’m very confident we will execute and go out and play well.”
For someone so cautious, that came close to sounding like Joe Willie Namath the week of Super Bowl III. (OK, maybe not that close.) But Smith has reasons to be cheerful: His team has passed every big test, and it seems as, er, potent as any team in the playoff grid.
The Falcons have been a week-by-week surprise to those of us on the periphery, but not to the men inside the complex at 4400 Falcon Parkway. Indeed, Smith said he learned all he needed to know about his team not in those 11 seconds against Chicago or the overtime against Tampa Bay, but way back in Week 2.
The Falcons trailed the Bucs 17-3 in Tampa. Matt Ryan had thrown two early interceptions and was getting hammered by a defense that lives to hammer young quarterbacks. And then you looked up in the fourth quarter and it was 17-6 and the Falcons had a first-and-goal and Ryan was rattled no more.
“You talk about turning points,” Smith said. “That was a turning point. Our young quarterback completed 8 of 9 passes, and we showed we could handle a surge on the road. The outcome [a 24-9 loss] wasn’t what we wanted, but you felt very proud about what we were able to accomplish.”
The Falcons would win four of their next seven road games, and not since that first half on Sept. 14 have they seemed overwhelmed anywhere. They will not be overwhelmed Saturday in Glendale. They’ve beaten better teams in tougher places.
They’ll beat the Cardinals and move on to the next task.
Permalink | Comments (212) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL
.JPG)
-1.JPG)
Services »
Comments
By Tyre
December 29, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
This is not going to be easy for the Falcons as you make it seem. I do expect a win in Az. though.
By mikefromcarrollton
December 29, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
They haven’t lost two in a row all season - no reason to expect them to lose badly this weekend.
BUT, they could easily lose this weekend. Not as great a matchup for ATL as it would appear at first glance. yes, ARZ has looked awful recently, and yes they have no running game. but they have homefield advantage and are being told they are the underdogs to a team that no one expected to be here.
the best way to disrupt their offense - a steady pass rush - is something ATL has lacked (the lack of a sack threat other than #55 is glaring). if given time, Warner is even better than Brees at delivering the ball, and has more potent (that word again) WRs.
Ryan has looked subpar the last two weeks. the second INT against STL was emblematic of his overall inaccuracy that game. if he’s on target, ATL blows the Rams out of the water.
but even with his poor play, my biggest fear for Saturday is that ARZ loads up to stop the run and Mularkey doesn’t allow his QB to take advantage of it. White has become nearly invisble the last two weeks - ATL needs more deep crossing routes to both he and Jenkins.
Turner has been the MVP this season. but he’s not the key in the playoffs, Ryan is. if Ryan is under 200 yds and has more than INTs than TDs, the Falcons will lose to ARZ. if he has >200yds and 0 INTs, ATL will win. it’s that simple.
By Singletary
December 29, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
My fear is MR2 now knows what he can do wrong and that is limiting his risk-taking decision-making. Against Chicago, for example, he was still “in his 5th year at BC, cramming a NFL style playbook, while playing QB on the weekends.” I hate to quote Joey Harrington, but he needs to remember what got him (and us) here.
We absolutely have to have Abraham and Milloy back at almost full speed. The same man who crawled to make a sack and the 35YO who is the acknowledged leader of this team are needed and as essential as our offensive playcaller.
Any team can lose to any other team on any given Sunday. We need to play hard and come into the stadium fired up, e.g. not like Denver.
By Go BIGRED
December 29, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
WOW Be careful what you wish for. The cards are 6-2 at home and 12-4 the past two years. Its a very tough place to play and the Falcons dont have a following big enough to fill our seats with their fans. Matt Ryan while a very good QB will experience some very loud crowd noise in our stadium he will struggle and thats right you heard it here first. If Warner can play mistake free and thats a big if but if he does The Falcons can match the points they will score. You also forgot to mention that James will start Sunday and had a 100 yards rushing against the sea chickens. He will be running hard for a job somewhere. Good luck to you guys should be a great game but when said and done The Cards have too much fire power. They dont have to run the ball well at home to win this game. Back east in the cold yes but not here where it will be 65 degrees lol. Greatest thing about this article is out here we feel the same way. Of the 5 other teams playing Atlanta is a blessing. Good luck guys enjoy it
By DHD
December 29, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
It’s better than trying to go 2-0 at Minnesota.
By falconsrock
December 29, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
Hey bigred i thinks its funny that you are salivating to play the falcons.We have just as much firepower,plus more balance and more defense.just compare the vikings game.You got stomped at your house and we went to the metrodome and took care of buisness.You got lit up by Tavaris Jackson.What do u think ryan will do?Good luck you will need it.
By mikefromcarrollton
December 29, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
@ GOBIGRED regarding crowd noise.
the crowd noise in Glendale is literally the least thing for ATL to worry about. ARZ fans will be jacked to watch a home playoff game, but
1) they aren’t a rabid fanbase, and thus, not as practiced at being disruptive as say, Philly.
2) it’s outdoors, and the crowd can only get so loud absent a dome.
3) ATL has already played games at NO and MIN, not to mention Green Bay. ARZ won’t even be in the top 3 of loudest places Ryan has had to QB.
i do agree that ARZ has lots of firepower, and i could easily see the Cardinals winning. but it won’t be b/c the crowd noise rattled Ryan.
By GO BIGRED
December 29, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
The Cards played horrible un inspired football against Minnesota. Minnesota was playing for their playoff lives. One of the worst games I have EVER been too and let me tell you I have seen some BAD football over the years. 110 degrees at Sundevil stadium getting blown out is bad football and that game was worse. If the Cards play well they win if they dont Falcons win. Dont look too much into the Minnesota game though.
By GO BIGRED
December 29, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
Um you should never call our stadium outside. The hole in the roof is so small you can barely see out of it and 2:30 in the afternoon im guessing it will be closed. They dont open it very often for whatever reason. And as for the guy that says we got blown out by Minnesota and you took care of them. Thats true but it took everything the Falcons had to beat Stlouis where we crush them everytime we play them. So i dont buy into that. We are the worst of the playoff teams there is no doubt but if The Falcons overlook them like all of you and everyone else in the country is the falcons will get blown out. They can score and score in a hurry. Your secondary will have to eat their wheaties thats for sure
By dave
December 29, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Go BIGRED - if all you say is true, wonder why the odds makers are giving the birds the line?
By GO BIGRED
December 29, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Ok Im done. I wanted to read your papers articles and get the Atlanta take on things but then I went to our paper and its just the oppisite. So i will just stick with them lol. Im glad you guys got it turned around after the Vick debacle. Your a class act organization that did not deserve that mess and its good to see you back on track. I have been to Atlanta many times and its a great city with good people. Which ever team wins Saturday is who I will root for rest of the way. Good luck but as always GO CARDS
By BravesFan79
December 29, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
As a big Warner fan ive been a fan of the Cardinals since they benched the overrated young QB Leinart, and went with the vet.
That being said, its 2 bad my favorite 2 teams in the NFC this year are playing against each other.
The Falcons should win this one tho, overall there the better team no doubt. All the national journalist are picking Ryan to struggle, but i think thell be wrong. Our rushing offense will allow Atlanta to dominate the clock, and keep the Cards lethal passing attack on the sideline.
By woogidy
December 29, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Where’s everyone watching the game at?
By floridafalcon
December 29, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Hey Bigred,I live in Pensacola Fl and I got a wager with my coworker, a big cardinal fan. On the line is an all expense paid visit to the Waffle house! Hell in this economy, the waffle house is like the 4 seasons! Anyway, you have shown class in this blog, I just wanted to point that out. Usually we get scum from filth-ladelphia or some other northeast slum talking trash. You my friend are a gentleman and a scolar! I’m not that sold on our chances, Arizona has alot to prove and will play inspired football, I hope the dirtybirds don’t overlook the Cards. Good luck.
By Scar988
December 29, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
yeah!
By falcon21
December 29, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
GO BIGRED,you are class.Wish our bloggers were more like you.Should be a great game.
By Texas Pete
December 29, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Hey BIGRED,
Class comments! Nice to see someone from a competing city come to the AJC blogs and leave thoughtful remarks. Good luck to the Cards - but not too much ;)
By Larry
December 29, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
A “Scolar?”
By FalconsSuckBigTime
December 29, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
I for one will actually be rooting for the Falconvicts next week. I hope you guys beat Arizona so that you come to Charlotte the next week and we smack you losers in the mouth hard en route to the NFC title. Go Panthers!
By JERRY
December 29, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
GOOD LUCK FALCONS IT WILL BE A GREAT GAME THIS WEEK.NO MATTER WHO WINS I’M A BIG FALCON FAN.GO FALCONS.
By Mike
December 29, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
BIGRED, you’re a class act and make good points. Regardless of who wins I can assure you that the Falcons will certainly not be taking the Cards too lightly. Coach Smith and his staff will make sure of that. Your team did what they had to do and are in the playoffs. Good luck to your Cards, but GO FALCONS!
By falcon21
December 29, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
You do not want to see the falcons Charlotte punk,what happened last time? Dont believe it was much of a game.
By Mark Bradley
December 29, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Civility on the blogs! What a concept!
By king o falcons fan
December 29, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
I truly believe that Matty Ice and Turner the burner will take care of business. IF they let Abraham and the rest of the surprising ATL defense loose on the old man Warner!!!! Go Big Coons!!!!!
By king o falcons fan
December 29, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
bring back the gritz blitz!!!!!! ya hear me!
By king o falcons fan
December 29, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
time to get mean…..u know what i mean?
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
December 29, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
In late Sepetember of 1999, the Atlanta Falcons traveled to Saint Louis to put a boot to the Rams. The Rams, 4-12 in 1998, had won their first game of the year, were missing their starting quarterback, Trent Green, and in his stead was a guy who had matriculated from the Arena League. On this particular Sunday, the guy sprayed the football around as if he were still in that ,now defunct ,assemblage of teams. When he’d finished, he’d thrown three touchdowns and the Rams has scorched the falcons for thirty-five points. The Falcons scored seven. The quarterback that day for the Rams, was Kurt Warner. He threw for 4300 something yards and forty-one touchdowns that year. His team won the Super Bowl and Warner was the MVP of that game. He was also the MVP of the league.
Eventually, Warner lost his job to a younger quarterback and he left Saint Louis for New York. He played well for the Giants but he, again, lost the starting job. This time to Eli manning, whom the Giants drafted. On to Arizona and once more he found himself sitting on the bench while some big time QB from a big time college program took the snaps. Then the coaching staff noticed that, not only, could the big time college guy not play, he didn’t care that he couldn’t play. They turned to Warner. This season he threw for about 4600 yards and thirty touchdowns.
Kurt Warner has been League MVP twice. He’s been to two Super Bowls, winning one and losing by three in the other. He’s been to the top and he’s been discarded. Playing the Cardinals, historically, has been a blessing for opponents. Playing against Kurt Warner rarely is. He’s thirty-seven now and his best days may be behind him but praising good fortune now seems a bit premature to me. The Falcons could win this game. They should win this game but remember, the opposing quarterback is capable of putting up lots of points in a very short time. The Falcons of 1999 found that out when they were rudely introduced to him. Let’s hope that lesson has not been forgotten.
By Rae Carruth
December 30, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this
Wait—wait—a Carolina pussycat fan called the Falcons “Faclonvicts?”
Man… that is RICH!
GO FALCONS!!!!
By Ron Roberts
December 30, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this
I’m a little concerned about Ryan’s shoulder at athis stage of his first professional season.
He hasn’t been the same the last couple of weeks, and I can’t help but wonder if he’s got a tired arm/shoulder. Let’s remember, he’s never played a season this long. I was at the game, and it seemed (from my vantagepoint, anyhow) that he was over-throwing or flinging throws that he would once make earlier in the season with darts that weren’t getting there as fast. His mind’s telling him he can make the thrwos (and in October/November he did) but his arm just lacks the ability this late in the season.
I hope I’m wrong; Matt’s been an amazing rookie QB, and the results bear that out. I just can’t help but wonder if the longest season (yet) of his life is taking it’s toll on the arm and/or shoulder.
*Oh, * and all that hype about DeAngelo and Stewart in Carolina, and we’ve known, all along, that we had that here, as well in Norwood and Turner. They shined Sunday.
The Panthers scare me the most in the playoffs… they’ve a dynamic run game, a brilliant wideou, and a QB, who, when playing mistake-free, wills his team; oh, and a nasty defense.
I wouldn’t want to face the Vikings again, either; it’d be in Minneapolis again, first off, and secondly, we did nothing to stop them; they stopped themselves all day. But that’s part of who they are, too…
Other’n that, I could see Atlanta in the Super Bowl; the Giants are dinged up and lacking their big play threat (Plaxico), the Eagles are a dysfunctional family who should run the ball more but Andy Reid can’t resist the temptation to toss the rock (and we’d play ‘em at home, anyhow), the Cardinals hav no run game and can’t stop the run.
It’s just fun as hell to be talking playoff football. Meaningful January football games - for the Atlanta Falcons! Pinch me.
By REDBIRDRAGE
December 30, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this
I hope you ATL fans understand the pain we Cards fans have been through for the past 20 years(last playoff appearance, when you all went to the Super Bowl- you’re welcome for wearing down the Vikings…) Please let your coaching staff and players think this is going to be an easy win, keep thinking you all lucked out to travel to the desert for this playoff game- This ain’t your Daddy’s Cardinals- we will be ready and it will be a great game- just go ahead and take us lightly… Warner, Edge, Fitz and Anquan ain’t that good anyway- Good luck- but I think your squad can make some tee times for next Monday afternoon, after cleaning out their lockers….
By Samuel
December 30, 2008 6:12 AM | Link to this
I think the falcons can win if they stick with the run. Let Matt throw it when he needs to.Turn Abraham loose and blitz Kurt Warner from up the middle. Make him throw from side to side.If we rattle him he will make mistakes.Put seven in the box and and double team the best receiver..
By rob
December 30, 2008 6:21 AM | Link to this
Bird Bowl 08 falcons will beat the Cardinals to a tweety…go falcons..all the way ..
By rob
December 30, 2008 6:21 AM | Link to this
Bird Bowl 08 falcons will beat the Cardinals to a tweety…go falcons..all the way ..
By GTBALTFAN
December 30, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
I grew up in Atlanta and have been a Falcon fan since ‘66.(went to the first ever Falcons game at Atlanta Stadium, a 42-0 thrashing by the Browns)I moved to Baltimore after graduating from Tech in early 70’s and became a Colt, then Ravens fan. I still love the Falcons and I’m glad we’re in different conferences.
This year has been great for me because the Ravens and the Falcons both turned it around. Last year, they were 5-11 and 4-12 respectively, both got new coaches and rookie first round QB’s.(Check the stats and you will see that Ryan’s and Flaccos’ numbers are almost identical) Both teams went 11-5 and both are headed on the road for first round where both are favored by 3. I have a real good feeling about how these playoffs are going to unfold and I’m predicting an all bird SB in Tampa on 2/1. And if my prediction comes true, on Super Bowl Sunday I will be flying my Baltimore Ravens flag and my 8’ x 5’ Atlanta Falcons flag (stolen from old Baltimore Memorial Stadium during a Colt game in 1977) side by side. (I hope the statute of limitations has run). Go Ravens, Go Falcons — Hope to be chatting with you bloggers a month from now.
PS, Go you Yellow Jackets!!!! — beat those Swamp Bengals & remember —— 45-42.
By Bob Horner
December 30, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
Pressure Warner, and the Cards roll over. That simple. Abraham will be playing unless he’s in a full body cast. I also thought Biermann did a good job in place of Jamaal “the Bust” Andersen.
Secondary will bend all day, but if we can get to Warner, it won’t matter. 55: we need ya!
By This Gets Old
December 30, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this
Mark:
As much as I like your work (after all you did write a pro-Ryan article after the GT-BC game. Of course I thought that too so maybe that’s why I liked the column) but I’m certain that you know has nothing to do with whom the odds makers think will win.
They want half of the bets to be on AZ and half to be on ATL.
As far as the Cards/Falcons game goes the best thing that could have happened to Atlanta is that the Cards won on Sunday. I believe Big Red in that AZ is happy to play the Falcons.
Truthfully the Falcons aren’t playing well right now. Does that mean that it’s great that they can still win while playing poorly? Or does it mean that they’re not the same when they’re expected to win?
By McRly?
December 30, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
THE BIGRED blabbermouths ain’t lying. It would be a huge mistake to look past the Cards. That being said, I’m fairly confident that our beloved Coach Smith with have our boys in line for the task ahead. There will be no looking past. There will be no underestimation. What there will be is a big fat healthy dose of #33, aka. Michael ‘The Burner’ Turner hammering that suspect defense over and over and over again. And when he stops for a gatorade, it’ll be Jerious “Cornbread” Norwood showing you his best krazy-legs impression popping to the outside. It’ll be run run run folks, and that clock will tick tick tick away. The Falcons will limit the Cardinals chances at big plays by dominating the play clock. Ryan will throw when he has to, after you commit 8-9 in the box to stop Turner. Roddy White has a career day against single coverage once that happens, and it’s lights out in Glendale. That’s my prognostication. As for a pass rush? Look for Jamaal Anderson to rest again this week; Chauncy Davis and Kroy Beirmann get the call again at DE. They had a sack a piece against the Rams last week. Watch them to get to Warner again this week. And #55? The Predator showcases that big chip on his shoulder from missing the Pro Bowl; 3 monster sacks and a decapitated Kurt Warner ( figuratively people! Figuratively! And for the record I dig Arizona. Warner is a stand-up guy and he would have been my MVP if they hadn’t laid that horrendous egg against the Pats a couple of weeks ago; having Bolden AND Fitzgerald just ain’t fair and Wilson is one of the most overlooked defensive players in the league; he’s top notch. You guys have a fun team to watch, that offense does worry the crap out of me. I’ll be clinging to my antacids, hoping for high winds and rain).
GO FALCONS
By Mike Lambert
December 30, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the jinx Bradley. Still like the 1996 Braves chances against the 1926 Yankees?
By Cards Fan
December 30, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
You sure spout the hometown line…
I have seen this team (Cards) play and they are formidible at home. Sure the NFC West had a down year, but the Cards were one of only 2 teams (PIT being the other) that ran the table in their own division. Weak or not, that is tough to do. NE went 4-0 against the NFC West and three of those were nail biters. The Cards packed it in before they even got on the plane…but what did they have to play for? They were already locked into the #4 seed.
The Cards were 6-2 at home this year. And that included wins over the Dolphins in week 2 (crushed them) a win over the Bills, who were 4-0 at the time, Dallas and the three division foes. Their only losses? to the NYG in a close game and yes, a blowout to MIN what us fans refer to as a post-division winning hangover. Let’s face it…the Cards never won a division before…they didn’t know how to handle it!
Which team will show up? We’ll see on Saturday! But if the Cards got it going on…beware! And what will you say in your column on Sunday morning? The Panthers were one made field goal from home field advantage throughout the playoffs, and a missed field goal away from Atlanta earning the bye. But the Falcons have to travel cross country now and that is tough to do in January.
I like our chances…
The Battle of the Birds should be a great one!
By Josh M
December 30, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
The 2009 matchups have been announced - and they are A LOT scarier than the 2008 ones. Other than the obvious division matchups, we get Philadelphia, Washington, Chicago, Buffalo and Miami at home, and Dallas, New England, San Francisco and both New York teams on the road.
For those scoring at home, only TWO teams with losing 2007 records are on that schedule - and both of those teams were 7-9. I hope we enjoyed Detroit, Kansas City, Oakland and St. Louis while we had them…
By Cards Fan
December 30, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
Great point Josh M. Everyone talks about how weak the NFC West is… But the Falcons got 4 wins against DET, OAK, KC and STL. If they played ‘good teams’ and say the Birds split, they are 9-7, just like our Cards. But hey, the NFL is the NFL. Otherwise, how does CIN tie PHIL? (Yes, Donovan, ties DO exist…).
This is the playoffs…in OUR house, in OUR nest. Last Sunday the roof was closed, even though it was 60 degrees and sunny out. AND IT WAS LOUD! I know the Falcons play in a dome, and I know they shut down the Vikings at their place (I was rooting for ATL by the way…for no other reason than the fact that the MIN fans were arrogant and were approaching Dallas fans).
May the best team win! That’s why they play the games!
By Josh M
December 30, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
The Falcons had a perfect schedule for a rookie quarterback - some “easy” confidence builders early on, some tough away games against down opponents, and some gutty, character-building street fights. And our 11 wins came from all three types.
By TheAntiMe
December 30, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this
“WOW Be careful what you wish for. The cards are 6-2 at home and 12-4 the past two years. Its a very tough place to play and the Falcons dont have a following big enough to fill our seats with their fans.” - Go BIGRED
Of course, we all know that Arizona plays in the powerhouse NFC West division while Atlanta plays in the lowly NFC South division. If the Cardinals were in the NFC South they would have finished 4th in the division behind Tampa Bay after tiebreakers due to having a worse NFC conference record than the Bucs.
Anyway, Go BIGRED, congrats on the division title as it is good to see that the Cardinals are heading in the right direction.
By Arthur Blank
December 30, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget to send in your Season Ticket Renewal checks! We need your money ASAP.
I’m sorry if that screwed up your Thanksgiving and I’m sorry the playoff invoices came so late. Could you please send some money for playoff games also? We need ALL your money ASAP.
What’s that? We aren’t going to have a home playoff game? Have faith…..it will be the Eagles at Falcons in the NFC Championship game.
Maybe not. Just send us your money!!!!!
By Brian Hunt
December 30, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
This game will have to be won by the Falcons’ pass rush. We need a big game from Abraham, Babineaux, Davis, and Bierman. Kurt Warner is a deadly accurate QB, but he is also a fumbler. If you get to him early and hit him, he comes unraveled and will fumble the game away. The Cards will try to negate the rush with short timing throws, so great tackling by the secondary is a must. The good thing is that the Falcons shouldn’t have to play eight in the box to stop the run.
By Bill
December 30, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Mark DOB’s post has crashed on the Braves as he is out of town. Would you Post on what the Braves are doing etc. while he is gone? Would love your opinion.
By MountainDawg
December 30, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
Unless they have a major meltdown (key turnovers, slew of missed tackles, etc.) the Falcons should whoop the Cards. The Birds have been on fire as of late.
BTW, while Flacco’s had a solid year & is becoming a good QB, “MattyIce” deserves the RoTY hands down. This kid could be the franchise QB we’ve needed! He made subpar Roddy White into a Pro-Bowler this year!
By Getaway
December 30, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
Cardinal fans are coming here looking for a honest assessment of their team and hopefully some respect for their team from an opponents fans. Unfortunately for them, their team is 9-7 and only in the playoffs because of their dreadful division. At least they won Sunday and didn’t finish 8-8.
That said, this is a dangerous team. While not as significant now as it was then, they did beat the Cowboys at home and had a good game against the Giants. They held the Giants to under a 100 yds rushing. Manning had to have a great game to keep them in it and did going 26/33 240 yds and 3 TDs. Ryan’s done some great things but he hasn’t done anything like that yet.
By Cards Fan
December 30, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
You guys are all class on your site! No trash talking or mud slinging. It is actually refreshing!
We have too many idiot Cowboys fans here and they keep talking about their playoff game against…Oh wait…you mean they didn’t make it? You’re kidding right? last time I checked, the Cards AND the Falcons have won playoff games more recently than Jones’ criminals. And you guys are NOT the FalconVICK(t)s…just one idiot who deserves everything he is getting! ATL has a class owner, a great coach and an up-and-coming QB. The perfect foundation for years to come! However, this has been a lifetime in coming for the Cards and we are certainly hoping to taste sweet victory in our nest!
By Mark Bradley
December 30, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
This Gets Old is technically correct. A betting line isn’t so much a prediction as an estimate of how people are going to bet. The line moves — from 2 1/2 points to 3, say — when more money comes in on the favorite than the underdog.
That said, the home team generally gets a three-point bump. Which would mean, roughly, that the Falcons would be favored by five on a neutral field and eight at the Dome.
Some of you old-timers help me out: Have the Falcons ever been favored in an away postseason game? I know they weren’t against New Orleans and Washington in 1991, and they weren’t against Green Bay in 1995, and they weren’t against Minnesota in 1998, and they weren’t against Green Bay or Philadelphia in 2002, and they weren’t against Philly again in 2004. And I’m assuming they weren’t against Dallas in 1978. (I wasn’t here yet.)
The one I’m wondering about is the 1982 game against Minnesota in the Metrodome. That was the strike year and it featured a 16-team playoff. Both the Falcons and the Vikings were 5-4. Anybody recall who was favored?
By Football Fan
December 30, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Hey Falcon fan, don’t worry about the Panthers. You season ends on January 3rd. You won’t have to face them.
By Jackson Hewitt
December 30, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
The Card fans seem a bit worried ! And they should be. Falcons 34-13 and Warner is done. Cards are the worst team in the playoffs, sorry !
By AZSPORTS2
December 30, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
I THINK WE SHOULD SLOW DOWN ON HANDING THIS GAME TO ATL. GRANTED I AM A CARDS FAN, BUT THIS IS THE NFL. PERIOD. END OF STORY. THE PLAYOFFS ARE A HOLE NEW SEASON. IF YOU THINK THE FALCONS ARE GONNA COME IN HERE AND JUST WALK ALL OVER THE CARDS, YOUR IN FOR A RUDE AWAKENING. YOUR TALKING ABOUT A TEAM, A CITY, AND PLAYERS THAT HAVE WORKED TO BE IN THE POST-SEASON FOR A LONG TIME.
AT THE SAME TIME I’M NOT GOING OUT ON A LIMB AND SAYING WE ARE HANDS DOWN GOING TO WIN. ITS FUNNY BECAUSE IN ATL ALL OF YOUR WRITERS AND FANS ARE HAPPY TO GET THE CARDS IN THE 1ST ROUND…..AT THE SAME TIME OUR MEDIA AND FANS ARE HAPPY TO GET ATL! IF WE ARE THE “WORST” TEAM IN THE NFC PLAYOFFS, THE FALCONS ARE CONSIDERED THE 2ND WORSE. HA HA
SHOULD BE A GOOD GAME, I’M TAKING THE CARDS BECAUSE THEY’RE MY TEAM, BUT I WOULDN’T BE SURPRISED IF THE OUTCOME WENT THE OTHER WAY.
By Mark Bradley
December 30, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
Bill, I’ll be happy to provide any Braves updates I can. But I don’t think there’ll be any this week. Baseball pretty much shuts down over the holidays.
By Now that's funny
December 30, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
McRly is exactly right. Our OC needs to track Michael Turners numbers not by yards, but by number of carries. He needs at least 30 touches this game. If Turner puts his hands on the ball 30 times and Crazy Legs Norwood touches it 5-10 times, we win. Thanks Bradley for the bulletin board material, reguardless, Coach Smith will have the boys ready. Look for The Ice Man to come out of his funk.He wants to win too badly to continue his average play. “John Abraham, you are overrated and should not be in the pro-bowl” -Kurt Warner
By Mark Bradley
December 30, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
And I’ll have you know, Mike Lambert, that it wasn’t the 1926 Yankees to whom I likened the ‘96 Braves. It was the ‘27 Yankees.
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Let’s get this straight right now! This game will not even be a contest. The Cardinals stand no chance whatsoever of winning this game….PERIOD!! I do not understand those of you who seem to think the Cardinals will prove to be a tougher opponent that most people think. I will be VERY surprised if the Cardinals lose by LESS THAN 14 points. This Cardinals team has NO business being in the Playoffs.
Just what is it that would lend ANYONE to believe the Cardinals will win? If anyone has an answer please let me know….because I am baffled!
By gary porter
December 30, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Are you on the Falcons payroll as well? Tough talk from a fishwrap scribe. We have a little something for your a* on Saturday. Be careful what ” you pray ” for junior.
By Football Fan
December 30, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
This should be a great game, hopefully decided by the players and not by bad calls and quick whistles etc. That said, I think the Cardinals will win by 8-15 points. The Falcons are pretty good, much improved, but their pass defense won’t be able to handle what they are going to see from AZ. On the other side, Arizona has shut down many good running backs, with the exception of the garbage games played after clinching. I don’t think the Falcons have enough fans in Phoenix to make any difference at the game, so advantage goes the the Cardinals there too. There have been quite a few false starts by the visiting teams, so it does matter. I guess being the worst team in the playoffs beats being the best team missing the playoffs. When AZ beats ATL on Saturday, then does that mean that the Falcons were indeed the worst team to make the playoffs?
By Jimv
December 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Mark- According to my guy (this doesn’t stay in Vegas), the Vikes were favored by 3 in that 1982 game.
By Mr. Mike
December 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
The Cards have quite the game ahead of them.
However, the cards defensive stats are better than the falcons. With James running and being very fresh, that will keep the falcons defense honest. And with that, they wont be able to pressure Warner, who is 7-1 vs the falcons.
The cards also have a good run defense. Not the best, but very effective and better than the falcons run defense.
And frankly, I don’t know how good the falcons secondary is. The schedule was low on teams that are more pass heavy like the Saints, Green Bay or Eagles. So the extremely potent pass attack will really test what the falcons are made of.
As far as the the Falcons go, they have many great players, but Cards shut down the Cowboys pass attack and they have a better passing game than the falcons. The Cards have limited the Giants running game which is leaps and bounds ahead of the falcons o-line and run game.
Falcons better bring it if they want to go anywhere in the play-offs. Its not an impossible game by any means and any given sunday(or saturday). They just better be preparing for one hell of a game that will far worse than a first round bye.
Good luck to both teams, and may we enjoy a good football game, not a one sided blowout…….by the cards :)
The cards were under respected in a few games and it backfired on those teams. Falcons would be wise to respect the cardnals and prepare for them as the most difficult game of the year or they would suffer the same fate as the Cowboys and Bills.
This is the post season now, this is where the cards play hard, not like the MN game where they had already clinched a playoff spot and MN needed to win to even be considered for the playoffs.
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
In other words….the Falcons/Cardinals game will prove to be nothing more than a warm-up scrimmage for the Falcons!
The Cardinals are NOT a good football team. They are, in essence, in the Playoffs by default. Again the Cardinals will be manhandled by the Falcons. I won’t even come back to the bulletin board after the game on Saturday to say “I told you so”…..the reason being….this is just too easy to predict.
By marko
December 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
I’m not too worried about the Cardinals, but the referee’s scare the living bejezus out of me. If we’re going suject our players to drug testing, should’nt do the same for the refs. I’ve seen clear evidence that suggests that these guy’s start to hallucinate when ever they enter the replay booth.
By DawgNCA
December 30, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
I’m not worried about Ryan long term…but short term. I think he may have hit that rookie wall. I don’t think his decision making is off. His arm seems tired to me these last couple of weeks.
By marko
December 30, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
I’m not too worried about the Cardinals, but the referee’s scare the living bejezus out of me. If we’re going suject our players to drug testing, should’nt do the same for the refs. I’ve seen clear evidence that suggests that these guy’s start to hallucinate when ever they enter the replay booth.
By marko
December 30, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
I’m not too worried about the Cardinals, but the referee’s scare the living bejezus out of me. If we’re going suject our players to drug testing, should’nt do the same for the refs. I’ve seen clear evidence that suggests that these guy’s start to hallucinate when ever they enter the replay booth.
By Mark Bradley
December 30, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Jimv.
So that would make this the first road playoff game in which the Falcons have ever been the favorite.
By Mr. Mike
December 30, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Hopefully your QB, who is amazing, but still a rookie, can handle the post season. History has shown that the playoffs eat Rookie QBs alive!
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
To: Gary Porter From: Genius Boy
No, I am not on the Falcons payroll. I’m simply a person using his brain instead of his heart or emotion. Face it Mr. Porter the Cardinals don’t belong! The Falcons will control the ball and score early & often with a balanced attack. The Cardinals will be forced into passing on virtually every down…oh, excuse me, they do that anyway! They do it because both your & my Grandmother could play RB on that team! Warner will be forced into making mistakes playing from behind.
Final Score: Falcons 37 Cardinals 17!!!
By noname
December 30, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
I have to say watching the Cards play the last 3 or 4 games they have not played the same formations or players as they did the first half of the season. And for those who think AZ is not one of the loudest stadiums Mike Holmgren that it was the loudest stadium his team has played in so dont be fooled. The Cards will pull their cards out Saturday and will beat the Falcons.
By noname
December 30, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
Genius do you really think your secondary is going to hold AZ to 17 points? Thats uneducated. The Falcons could win Saturday, but theyll have to score more than 31 to beat AZ.
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
To: Gary Porter From: Genius Boy
No, I am not on the Falcons payroll. I am just someone looking at this game from an unbiased perspective. In other words, I’m using my brain & not my heart or emotion. Once again, the (your) Cardinals just don’t belong….face it Mr. Porter. The Falcons will score early & often with a balanced attack. The (your) Cardinals will be forced to pass on virtually every down….oh, excuse me, they do that anyway. They do it because both your & my Grandmother could play RB on that team (and my Grandmother is dead!). I exaggerated there just a little bit to make a point….but just a little bit! The Cardinals & Warner will be playing from behind & Warner will force a few mistakes in the pass-happy Cardinals game plan!!
Final score: Falcons 37 Cardinals 17
Atleast you guys made the Playoffs.
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
December 30, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
. This Cardinals team has NO business being in the Playoffs.
Well, it wasn’t too long ago that seem thing was said of another team. They’d gone 10-6 in the regular season and qualified for the playoffs as a Wild Card entry. They beat Tampa, the Cowboys and Green Bay to qualify for the Super Bowl. Their opposition was a dark force that didn’t lose. The Team, the Giants, was given no chance of defeating the evil empire that the Patriots had become. However, many a gambler lost on this “sure thing.” Eli manning, David Tyree, Strahan and the rest of the Giants held together and defeated the team that had not been defeated all year. Show me the person who predicted that outcome when the Giants made the playoffs. There’s no one to point to. Nobody saw that coming!
The Falcons should win the game but they shouldn’t subscribe to the sense of superiority some are evincing. Just because you should win doesn’t mean you will. Last year, after the Super Bowl, I heard a commentator ask one of the Giants who would win the most games if the Giants and Patriots played one hundred times. That sort of conjecture is irrelevant and ridiculous. The mighty Patriots were beaten in the one meeting that really mattered. To hell with the other ninety-nine!
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
Just to be fair. Atleast the Falcons made the Playoffs too. The difference is the Falcons made the Playoffs with a much better team. And, a team in arguably THE best Division in the NFL.
Yes, I do believe the Cardinals will be limited to 17 points!!!
By vivalos
December 30, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
respect your opponent
By vivalos
December 30, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
respect your opponent
By vivalos
December 30, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
respect your opponent
By Greg
December 30, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
The Cardinals don’t run the ball very well, but they don’t have to run the ball. I’m much more worried about the Falcons’ pass defense than I am about their run defense. I think it’s a big mistake to think this will be an relatively easy game. Forget about Vegas and the point spread. If Warner has one of his typical “on” days, and we don’t get a pass rush (remember Abraham’s groin!), it could be a very long day for the Falcons. This is one of those games that could end up 37-14…the wrong way.
By noname
December 30, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
genius, the cards put up 17 points in 58 seconds…you are obviously oblivious to the cards offense whish has 3 1000 yard recievers….last time i check Atlanta has 1 DB…yes they have a good front 7 though..it will make an interesting match up..
By jeanE
December 30, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Totally agree, we can beat these Cards, athought we never pound anyone, I am confident we can & will beat them! We seem to like to keep them all a little too close before we close it out! Kurt Warner can be rattled & get happy feet very easily, we will have to get in his face big time! Their receivers are awesome, but we can throw the QB’s timing off & that’s the key. I like our running game against that defense any day! Just have to cut down on throwing the picks & keep the mistakes to a minimum & we are fine, Go Birds!! Here’s my weekly plea to give Finn some more catches, come on!!!
By marko
December 30, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
As I look back over the past season, the Falcon losses came when they could’nt stop their opponents running game. I suspect Mr Weisenhunt is watching our game film and wishing that he had a decent running back. The Falcon’s gave up a lot of passing yardage because teams were often behind by two or more scores and forced to throw. If the Cards prevail it will most likely be because one of their running backs becomes a one day wonder , and not because Warner has a super day.
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Marko, your comments are valid, but I disagree that the Cardinals win if their RB’s become 1 day wonders. It certainly wouldn’t hurt “if” their RB’s became 1 day wonders, but I contend that the ONLY way this Cardinals team has a chance is “if” the Falcons shoot THEMSELVES in the foot by turning the ball over repeatedly! That is the only HOPE for this Cardinals team that has NO business calling themselves a Playoff team. This team flat out stinks! Yes they have very good WR’s but that is not enough.
The Cardinals racked up “statistics” playing in the worst Division arguably EVER!!! And when they played decent teams they were simply overmatched in virtually every case. Once again this Cardinals team does NOT belong in the Playoffs.
This is a warm-up scrimmage for the Falcons!!! There is NO way we lose unless we turn over the ball repeatedly!
I can tell you right now that we will hold the Cardinals to 17 points because we will control the ball with long drives. Our superior running game & our very competent passing attack will account for these drives. Michael Turner will not turn the ball over…he virtually NEVER does & if that’s not enough then Norwood will dart right through their defense with a change of pace & Matt Ryan will have an open passing game due to the success of the Falcons RB tandem. The Cardinals defense will be “sucking wind” by the middle of the 3rd quarter. Meanwhile, Warner will be trying to rally his team from behind and will miss those 2 great WR’s a few times and become a “tackler” trying to stop the DB who just intercepted his pass!!!!
This game is a COMPLETE mismatch!!! The Cardinals will fall completely apart…just like Dallas just did….only Dallas is a far superior team than the “Non-belonging in the Playoffs” Cardinals!!!
Your team stands NO chance other than the Falcons “giving” the game to them on a silver platter.
Why can’t anyone else but me see this??????????????????????
By Car RamRod
December 30, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
I see some smart football fans here claiming that if pressure Warner, he’s toast. Nice logic considering he was hit or blitzed MORE THAN ANY QB in history this past season because of our running game, or lack thereof! The Falcons should win this game because they are the more well-rounded team, but anybody treating this game as anything other than “any given Sunday” is sorely mistaken. One miscue from either QB and that could be the game. Both teams can put points on the board, but if the Cardinals go up early (Cards fane here - I know that will never happen), I would be a little scared about AZ’s D teeing off on a rookie QB. I know he is playing like a vet, but even veterans can get knocked out by Adrian Wilson. Falcons 27, Cards 21.
By This Gets Old
December 30, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
The Falcons have not spent one day this season under .500. They haven’t lost back to back games all season. They haven’t given up 30 points in any game this season and the Cardinals have given that up in a half.
“you’re welcome for wearing the Vikings down for you”
Ain’t that rich? I was at that game and the Vikings were picking little pieces of Cardinal out of their cleats after the first quarter.
Trash talking is one thing but insanity is another. The Cardinals have had some horrific defeats this season and their signature win was against a team that didn’t make the playoffs.
By Dixie Dawg
December 30, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Man, it sure is cool to talk to people that are rooting for other teams and actually be civil about it.
I am glad we are playing the Cards. Eventhough I want our birds (Falcons) to win, it’s going to be a good game no matter the outcome.
There is one thing I can say…AZ fans are a classy bunch of individuals and I enjoy reading their posts and the friendly rivalry that has begun.
Kurt Warner is a class act dude and a good Christian man, but I’m hoping that Matty Ice and the boys prevail.
It’s going to be fun, Cards fans!
Go Falcons!!!
By Ryan Rooter
December 30, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Nice job Bradley, in giving the Cardinals bulletin board material. Yes, it is just you talking but you almost make it sound like it comes from Coach Smith and the Falcons. Actually, knowing your record, I would have been happier if you had picked the Cardinals. But, as it is, are you planning a move to Arizona?
By Tim Falcon Dawg
December 30, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
DO anyone give the falcons slot receivers credit of being under rated ? I do watch out for the know names number 4 and 5 receivers. end qoute
By Objectivist Fan
December 30, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
Warner, Boldin and Fitzgerald will show up. ATL secondary is just not big enough for the the pro-bowl trio.
The AZ O-line has held up well for Warner who has thrown for 1000 more yards the M. Ryan. A run game won’t help ATL if they fall quick. If Warner starts hot and Fitz stays on track: Cards win.
Atlanta is good. Ryan looks great but AZ at home is dangerous. It will be close but I bet the cards pull out a tough one. AZ 31 ATL 28
Don’t forget Ryan’s worst enemy - Dominique Rodgers - Cromartie who will keep your Pro Bowler at bay.
By Eric C.
December 30, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
The great thing about this Falcons team is that they can play far from perfect and still win. Three times they lost the TO battle 3 to 0 and still won this year…that is impressive.
By Shane
December 30, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
We have had a GREAT season so far! The sky is the limit for this team and it’s ROTY QB. I can’t wait to see what happens in the offseason. This will be a good game, but I don’t think we can match up with them defensively. Way too much fire power on offense and Ryan has struggled some down the stretch. Any given Sunday though right?
By Eric C.
December 30, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this
The Falcons haven’t give up 30 pts to a team in a game all season. This could be the first time…but Atlanta’s balanced attack shouldn’t have a problem getting 30+ points of their own.
By gocards
December 30, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
I think it will be a good game. In most of the AZ blowouts they were sitting alot of defensive starters. And we did run the ball semi effective til the Hightower experiment. We did that after clinching a playoff spot. Both teams are young and hungry. Talking trash doesnt make sense. Lets let the game play out.
By Mark Bradley
December 30, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
Not to change the subject or anything, but Mike Shanahan just got fired by Denver. How ‘bout that?
By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Now I’ve heard it all from the post by Ryan Rooter above. He is worried that the article by Mark Bradley will be bulletin board material for the “they simply DO NOT belong in the Playoffs” Cardinals and possibly inspire them to a victory. If ANY playoff team is sitting around surfing the nations journalists’ articles they will NEVER stand a chance in the 1st place. I think they have better things to worry about and are busy enough preparing for the game they are about to lose in grand fashion.
What is with you people? This Cardinals team is going to be exposed miserably for the “Playoff Imposters” that they are!!!
My only question is…”How could anyone think the Cardinals are Playoff worthy”?
You can all contact me at Halftime of Saturday’s game and congratulate me for my incredible foresight!! The game will be “out of hand” by that time. Why no one else can see that the Cardinals are complete “Imposters” is way beyond me!!!
By Ryan Rooter
December 30, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
“Genius Boy” By whose calculation?
By Ryan Rooter
December 30, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
I didn’t comment on te article until I saw that it had been printed in its entirety by the Arizona Chronicle. In other words, the Cardinals didn’t have to “surf the nation’s journalists articles”, all they had to do was read their local newspaper. Not that I’m surprised that “Genius Boy” hasn’t read or understood the thread, he is just blabbing. Blab away Bubber, education and intelligence go hand in hand.
By viva castro
December 30, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
Denver’s performance sunday night was alarming. Has football devolved so much that a simple running off tackle offense could rack up that kind of yardage?
This means the coach doesn’t understand the mission of football.
The Mission of Football: To provide for a sustainable Iraq, that can defend itself, and be an ally in the war on terror.
Camera to Bush, mugging, “just kidding”.
No, the mission of football, people of earth, is to control the scrimmage so that penetration is a forward vector and absorption receptors are retrievable.
Oh, dont reach for THAT one, Bradley, that’s WAY over your head.
JK, happy new year.
There’s no mission for football, if there was, then the forward pass would be a sacrament.
Love the Falcon’s chances.
Represent!
By TALONtedRedBirds
December 30, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
Short and sweet… Cards have been playing a “vanilla” defense after they won the division. They will do just fine. Fitz and Q are too big for those small corners. The run game is still questionable but hopefully will be effective. Keep Warner upright and the ball of the grass, Cards win easy. 41-19
By viva castro
December 30, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Falcons 45, Cards 31
By Craig_campos
December 30, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Is this fool Serious??? Is this a blog for SNL?? The Cards clinched 4 weeks ago!!!!! They wanted to make sure they had no Injuries…Period. The Giants game was close..and we played Carolina to a dead heat…and out gained them by 140 yds!!!! We were 7-3 and the only thing that could stop us was a major injury…SO what does Whiz do….Pull everything back….You guys especially this moron at the Newspaper must not watch football…and just assumes the same ol Cardinals…..But we threw deep 4 times in the last 5 games…and 3 of them were last week. Fitzgerald can outleap and outplay ANY corner…we will use him..lol….And Boldin has missed 5 games!!!! He will be healthy….We beat 4 teams this year when they were playing well! You guys better bring your A game…..and that is just to have a chance….Just remember …4th in the league in scoring, 3 1000 yd receivers and a QB who was 2nd in the NFL in QB rating….And that was us sand bagging and looking horrible the last 4 games!!!!
By Craig_campos
December 30, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Is this fool Serious??? Is this a blog for SNL?? The Cards clinched 4 weeks ago!!!!! They wanted to make sure they had no Injuries…Period. The Giants game was close..and we played Carolina to a dead heat…and out gained them by 140 yds!!!! We were 7-3 and the only thing that could stop us was a major injury…SO what does Whiz do….Pull everything back….You guys especially this moron at the Newspaper must not watch football…and just assumes the same ol Cardinals…..But we threw deep 4 times in the last 5 games…and 3 of them were last week. Fitzgerald can outleap and outplay ANY corner…we will use him..lol….And Boldin has missed 5 games!!!! He will be healthy….We beat 4 teams this year when they were playing well! You guys better bring your A game…..and that is just to have a chance….Just remember …4th in the league in scoring, 3 1000 yd receivers and a QB who was 2nd in the NFL in QB rating….And that was us sand bagging and looking horrible the last 4 games!!!!
By Craig_campos
December 30, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Is this fool Serious??? Is this a blog for SNL?? The Cards clinched 4 weeks ago!!!!! They wanted to make sure they had no Injuries…Period. The Giants game was close..and we played Carolina to a dead heat…and out gained them by 140 yds!!!! We were 7-3 and the only thing that could stop us was a major injury…SO what does Whiz do….Pull everything back….You guys especially this moron at the Newspaper must not watch football…and just assumes the same ol Cardinals…..But we threw deep 4 times in the last 5 games…and 3 of them were last week. Fitzgerald can outleap and outplay ANY corner…we will use him..lol….And Boldin has missed 5 games!!!! He will be healthy….We beat 4 teams this year when they were playing well! You guys better bring your A game…..and that is just to have a chance….Just remember …4th in the league in scoring, 3 1000 yd receivers and a QB who was 2nd in the NFL in QB rating….And that was us sand bagging and looking horrible the last 4 games!!!!
By Hadrian
December 30, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
I keep a system which each week predicts the point differential of games and then divides the predicted differential by the actual differential by 10 and then add and subtract to the rating system for all 32 teams. I’ve been doing it for years before I had a computer with a spread sheet to help me. The New York Giants started off the 2007 season rated #20, advanced to #8 and won the SuperBowl. The Cards started off rated 20th this year rose all the way to 10th and then after clinching fell to 23rd. If they are in fact 23rd, then I have the Falcons predicted to win by 2 points. If they are closer to their 10th rating, then I’d have the Cards winning. I’m a Cardinal fan and it’s been fun this year not having them rated dead last. The fans at the stadium have caused several false starts calls. They do get noisy. I just hope it’s a well-reffed game, not like some of the games I’ve seen this year. I think it was against Carolina, the refs called delay of game with 1 second on the clock which cost the Cards a touchdown. Against New England, after New England had a big play, the game clock when to 0 and another 2 seconds elapsed before the ball was snapped and there was no delay of game penalty called.
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
December 30, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
My only question isHow could anyone think the Cardinals are Playoff worthy?
Well, let’s see now. Did you pick the Falcons to beat Green Bay, in Green Bay, in 2002? The Falcons had won nine games in the regular season and entered the playoffs as a wild card. If you say you picked Atlanta I’m going to feel compelled to question your veracity. The Packers were an overwhelming favorite in that game but overwhelming favorites are often overwhelmed themselves. The Packers were thoroughly beaten. As for the Cardinals, they’re playing at home and they’re in the playoffs, as legitimately as Atlanta was in 2002. They’re going to play to win and any sense of entitlement on the part of the Falcons and their fans could presage a painful experience. Warner is going to throw the ball a lot and Boldin and Fitzgerald are going to make some catches. Arrogance and effrontery have a way of making it back round. The Falcons have the talent to win. I hope they have the desire that will drive them to play as well as they can. And i hope they don’t have the attitude I see here. The Cardinals belong and they’re going to try their damnedest to beat the Falcons. Let’s deride them after we’ve beaten them. if we do.
By hadrian
December 30, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
My prediction accuracy is 65%. As to who I predicted to win what game in 2002. I don’t keep such records. I can say that right now the system says Atlanta is the 13th best team in the league and my Cards are the 23rd best team in the league. The system is based solely on numbers. It does not recognize if a QB is injured and won’t play and it rewards teams that stomp other teams.
By Mark Bradley
December 30, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
I, on the other hand, have my own system. I pick a team to win, and then it usually doesn’t.
By algonquin J. Calhoun
December 30, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
hadrian
You succeeded Trajan?
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
December 30, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
By Mark Bradley December 30, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this I, on the other hand, have my own system. I pick a team to win, and then it usually doesnt.
Mark, that’s a hell of a system! I love your columns but I’d never ask you for betting advice. Calling this game with Arizona a blessing for the Falcons smacks of the preordained and that disturbs me because somebody might actually believe it. The Falcons got to this point with hard work. So did the Cardinals! Last year, in mid-season, there were calls for Eli to be benched and for Coughlin to be fired. The giants made the playoffs as a wild card. They went to the Super Bowl and were supposed to be sacrificial lambs, slaughtered by an invincible Patriots team. Didn’t happen like that! The Patriots had a perfect season, except for the only game that really mattered!
By what?
December 30, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Cardinals, enjoy your playoff game. Singular. You’ll have another one in about another ten or twenty years. Last time the Falcons faced Kurt Warner in the playoffs we absolutely destroyed his team. Won’t be any different this Saturday. Have fun watching the rest of the playoffs from where you deserve to watch them: at home. p.s.-It’s really cute that you’re trying to intimidate us. Your team is the joke of the playoffs. The Saints almost had the same record as you, and they’re dead last in our division.
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
December 31, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
If you get tired of commenting here directly, you can access this blog from the Arizona Republic’s site.
By tyjudopeaz
December 31, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this
Bob Horner, My fellow Arizona State Sun Devil!! Go Cards,live from Surprise,AZ
By BigeRedDan
December 31, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
Hey By What, I think you will see a very inspired Cards team come out and prove you wrong. And you are talking about the Old Cardinals because things have changed with the management and our new stadium. Since we got our new stadium, we have a great home record and if you think it’s going to be easy for the Falcons, you are in for a big surprise. I’m not saying we’re going to win because I don’t like to predict stuff and any team can win on any given Sunday.
By BigeRedDan
December 31, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
Hey By What, I think you will see a very inspired Cards team come out and prove you wrong. And you are talking about the Old Cardinals because things have changed with the management and our new stadium. Since we got our new stadium, we have a great home record and if you think it’s going to be easy for the Falcons, you are in for a big surprise. I’m not saying we’re going to win because I don’t like to predict stuff and any team can win on any given Sunday.
By Najeh Davenpoop
December 31, 2008 3:23 AM | Link to this
Some of the Cardinals fans posting here seem to be a little confused. Pass defense doesn’t start with the secondary — it starts with the pass rush. If Abraham can get to Warner often enough to force quicker throws, it’s not gonna matter how tall or talented Fitzgerald, Boldin, Breaston and Urban are compared to the Falcons’ secondary.
If the Cardinals want to win this game, they should be worried about stopping Turner and Norwood.
By John
December 31, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this
cards fans, ask yourself this: if your team were in the same division with the falcons, would they have made the playoffs?….BE HONEST!
By Brian Carlson
December 31, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
Go Falcons but don’t look past the Cards.
By robert miguel
December 31, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
I’ll be emailing you back on Monday after the Cardinals beat the Falcons…
Please have enough heart to write something good about the Cardinals in your next column after our victory…
It will be a blow out, Cardinals - 31 Falcons - 17!
By Massah Goodell
December 31, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
The Falcons may have received a trip to Arizona as a “blessing,” but it is Mike Vick who is actually spending time on his knees.
By DWRinAZ
December 31, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Articles like this always amaze me. No question that the Falcons had a great year and that the Cards played very poorly since clinching the NFC west. When you look at this game a couple of things stand out…
1) The Falcons are 0-5 when Ryan has 30 or more passing attempts
2) The Cardinals are allowing an average of 110 yds per game on the ground.
Overall the Cards have had a surprisingly poor year on defense. As an outsider its hard to tell if this is due to poor schemes, bad execution or Whiz reigning Clancy in…its very possible that Clancy is coaching for both his job and reputation this week. Historically he’s been a very good coordinator known for innovative schemes.
IMO the game will turn on Clancys schemes and the Cards intensity on D. After the fact its easy to simply view the Cards as the weak sister but both Buffalo and Dallas came to the desert and died as “play off teams”. IF the Cards can effectively run blitz and free up A-Dub to pop your ROTY in the ear hole a time or two this will shape up as a long afternoon for the Falcons…
By LifelongDawg
December 31, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
I love to read the opinions and the out-of-nowhere statistics, but there is a reason they actually play the game on the field. Nothing that either team has done in the past really matters anymore. All playoff teams are dangerous in their own way. I hope the Falcons win, but I’m not going to guarantee anything. Thanks, though, to the organization for the sudden turnaround in fortunes. Atlanta didn’t deserve what happened last year and made great moves to change the club’s attitude. Congratulations, guys, for making NFL football fun in Atlanta again.
By AZSPORTS
December 31, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
WOW, THAT GENIUSBOY JUST KNOWS IT ALL HUH??? AGAIN, ITS HARD TO PREDICT ANYTHING IN THE NFL, PERIOD. MUCH LESS A BLOW-OUT WIN….IN THE PLAYOFFS!
THATS WHATS LAUGHABLE, NOT THE FACT THAT THE CARDS ARE IN, BUT THAT YOUR THE ONLY PERSON THAT THINKS ATL WILL WIN IN THAT TYPE OF FASHION…..ON THE ROAD….WITH A ROOKIE QB, BUT ITS
I DONT PREDICT A CARDS WIN, BUT I PREDICT A GOOD GAME, AND IT CAN GO EITHER WAY. DEPENDS ON WHO EXECUTES FIRST!
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
December 31, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
FALCONS SHOULD WIN EASY
—————AFTERALL—————-
THEY HAVE ON THEIR SIDE…….
HISTORY
NO FALCON TEAM HAS GONE 1 & DONE
THEY HAVE THE “ROOKIE OF THE YEAR”
NO PROBLEM
VICTORY OR OTHERWISE…….
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
December 31, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
NFC 6-MOST IMPORTANT
————ESPN.COM————-
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs2008/news/story?page=hotread16/nfcpeople
Give rookie quarterback Matt Ryan and first-year coach Mike Smith a ton of credit for Atlanta’s surprising season. But the most important person in the turnaround and in any success Atlanta might have in the postseason is Michael Turner.
After four seasons behind LaDainian Tomlinson in San Diego, Turner finally got his chance as a feature back, and he has been a workhorse. He’s the key to the Falcons’ offense — and even to their defense.
Turner’s success running the ball has prevented defenses from putting too much pressure on Ryan, and that has allowed the rookie quarterback to thrive. Turner has meant just as much to the defense and may mean even more in the first-round game against Arizona.
Turner has the ability to move the chains and keep the clock moving. That helps keep the defense fresh and could help keep Arizona’s explosive offense off the field.
By chocolatemilk
January 1, 2009 12:25 AM | Link to this
What is this Cardinals don’t have any business being in the playoffs talk? It’s not like they were randomly picked, they had the best record in their division. Everyone knows the rules going into the season—this shouldn’t be a surprise.
Interesting fact…the Cardinals have played against the other 4 leading rushers in the league (Peterson, D. Williams, Portis and T. Jones) and are 0-4 in those games. But only Peterson and Williams had big games. The Cards defense is schizophrenic. They can look great at times, lousy at others. Their pass defense gave up 36 touchdown passes this year, by far the worst in the league. But throwing isn’t exactly Atlanta’s forte. If Dockett, Berry and Smith can get a push up front, and they can contain Turner, and hold Norwood without a big play, they’ll win the football game. Yes, those are big ifs, I know. I don’t think Atlanta’s defense is prepared for what they will see from the Cardinals passing game with a healthy Boldin this weekend, and a resurgent Edgerrin James should be able to show enough to keep the Falcons ‘d’ off balance.
It’s good to see new blood in the playoffs.
By Eric C.
January 1, 2009 5:25 AM | Link to this
If the Falcons win the toss and get the ball first…the pressure will be great for the Cardinals defense because the Falcons do not lose when they score first. Something to keep in mind…they only gave up 16 sacks this season…which included games against Tampa Bay twice, Minnesota, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Carolina twice (4 of 7 games on the road).
Atlanta will give up BIG yards in the air when they have a lead. After Atlanta had a 27 to 6 lead over NO…they gave up 300 yds to Drew Brees. After getting a big lead over Carolina…Jake Delhome passed for big numbers, as did Tavarias Jackson when the Falcons were up 24-7 on Minnesota. Similar cases can be made in other games but those are just examples. In the Falcons loss to New Orleans…Brees was actually held UNDER 300 yds. The Saints won that game because of a strong RUNNING game. The Cardinals will need to run the ball successfully to win.
If Lawyer Milloy and John Abraham are at least 80 to 90%…the Falcons defense will be tough for Arizona. Atlanta is one of two teams that did not allow 30 pts in a game during the regular season. This stat is more a reflection of the Falcons TEAM concept as ball control has as much to do with that as the defense imo.
By TheOriginalCardsfan
January 1, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this
Kinda funny - we thought the Cards were blessed having ATL as a 1st round opponent.
Anyway - the team that plays defense the best will win this game. Hard to tell which team that will be. Don’t use the MIN, PHI, or NE game as an indicator how bad the Cards are - look back to the DAL game and it will give you an idea what ATL is in for.
BTW - for those that use the Vegas odds as an indicator, ATL is only favored by 2 or 2.5 points. That means this game can go either way.
This is not a game where you want to bet the house either way.
By DWRinAZ
January 1, 2009 11:31 AM | Link to this
Actually the “smart money” seems to be heavily on the Cardinals. This is widely viewed as a trap game. I’m not much on the various simulation programs but every one has the Cards winning. When you actually break this one down this is by far the best match up for the Cards possible. Atlanta has the worst defense of any playoff team statistically. While the Cards numbers are also dismal they are heavily influenced by 4 blowouts. The more you look at this game the better the Cards look.
By Birdy
January 1, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this
Talk about an article written to build overconfidence. I certainly hope the Falcons aren’t believing this kind of stuff Mark Bradley is writing. This is the NFL and you can never be this confident of winning — even if you are the New England Patriots.
Bardley has surely been around professional sports, and the NFL in particular, long enough to know this type of thinking is senseless. If the Falcons win it will be because they outworked the opponents on that day. Not because somebody has written that they can win just by showing up.
Maybe Bradley is just trying to give Arizona a bit of incentive of some kind? Who knows.
By StillaJoke
January 1, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this
When did the Falcons forget at they are…..the FALCONS! This team is still average at best. They have to travel to Arizona which is 14-2 in the last two years. Mr. Bradley, the koolaid stain on your lip is awful. Always remember, every stat and argument you come up with is irrelevent. They still have to play the game. Oh and by the way. Folks in Arizona are thanking their lucky stars they get to play a “warmup” game against the rookie QB and below average team. Atlanta needs to be prepared for a wake up call on Saturday.
By StillaJoke
January 1, 2009 8:15 PM | Link to this
correction…12-4 in two years.
By pond scum
January 2, 2009 4:09 AM | Link to this
Wow, I see alot of Cards fans here talking smack.
Alot want us to look at their win vs. the Cowboys,3 1,000 yard WRs,we have the worst statistical defense,Rodgers-Cromartie is the next Deion, ect.
Best one of all is StillaJoke using a stat of the Cards 12-4 home record the past 2 seasons,then saying they are irrevalant?
We are “below average”,even with an 11-5 record,in the best NFL division and having more NFC Championship teams as more regulars from the NFC South than the entire NFC West?
These guys know more about the “postseason” than us,with their what first home playoff game in what 60 something years and first time since our NFC Championship year being 10 years ago?
All these about Ryan the rookie suddenly becoming scared to death to play,we don’t have a passing game good enough to beat them,even though we possess a Pro-Bowl WR ourselves?
Our Pro-Bowl snubbed DE with 16.5 sacks almost has more by himself than the entire Cards defense surely won’t lay a mere finger on Warner,the stay-in-the-pocket passer?
All this smack and yes more folks by a team who was exactly what rank in the NFL in scoring allowed?
Their record vs. non-NFC West opponents was what again?
And many of them if you look closely are predicting we the Falcons get blowed out,but if someone points out that the Falcons are very capable of blowing the Cards out……..well the grip on the loose straws gets even tighter by the Cards fans.
Well see
By John
January 2, 2009 11:25 AM | Link to this
cards are 12 - 4 in their division the past 2 seasons at home eh? in that weak as hell division, who WOULDNT be? if u had to play carolina 2 times a year, the bucs 2 times a year, and even the saints at home, your “12-4 at home” would be shot to hell and u all KNOW it!
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
January 2, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this
The Falcons have a problem no one has talked about. Personal problems for Michael Turner have come to light. Last week, there was a domestic dispute at his home and law enforcement was involved. He was not arrested but it seems reasonable to assume there is tension in the home. He may be able to block that out but it’s possible the trouble at home has joined him in Arizona. The arrogance of Falcons’ fans and the derision directed at the Cardinals has been surprising. The Falcons were horrible just one year ago. The team’s cumulative record is one that no franchise could be proud of. To condescend in this fashion is emblematic of an insecure, loser mentality. Sadly, this type of thought process can metastasize in any direction and it probably has gotten a hold in the team itself. The Cardinals will win the game and, probably, by more than twenty points. They have been maligned, disrespected and lampooned by people one year removed from the most embarassing incident in the history of the NFL. The Falcons have been, except for very brief splotches of time, a very pitiable entity in the league. To point to another franchise as unworthy is about as disingenuous as it gets!
By DWRinAZ
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Now tell me you couldn’t see this one coming a mile away. I’m not sure if this contributed as much as Peter Kings drivel in SI…
However Mattyice is the real deal, what a great QB. Falcons have a fantastic future ahead. Hopefully we can do this again next year….
By Algonquin J. Calhoun
January 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this
But again we see that some higher power seems to have taken a liking to these bold Birds. Because their reward for finishing second in the NFC South is one of the sweetest consolation prizes in the history of consolation. They get to play Arizona, and heres what Vegas thinks of the Cardinals: Theyre home-field playoff underdogs to the team that only four months ago was the consensus choice as the NFLs worst.
Amen! Thank you Dear Lord for that a*-whuppin’ we just took. Vegas was wrong and so were all those who said the Cardinals didn’t belong in the playoffs. The Falcons played well and made a good showing. Kurt Warner is still Kurt Warner and he’s as good as any quarterback in Canton. He’s a great leader and he led his team to victory. The Falcons will be stronger and better next season. Some of our fans need to learn some humility. given the history of this franchise, you wouldn’t think it would be all that difficult!
By 706 Falcons Fan
January 3, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this
regardless of what happened today, atlanta had a great season under a rookie QB & a new head coach. We will take it all the way next year!!! GO FALCONS!!!!!
By Eric Yuva
January 3, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
Maybe you were a bit ahead of yourself. Depending on a rookie quarterback and a team new to the playoffs, playing on the road where the Cardinals were 6-2 this year. Maybe the Falcons should go home and pray tonight and maybe they’ll wake up with a new outcome. Your column was completely off base and your faith in this good but young Falcons team was too high at this point. The Cardinals proved that we were much more than you took us for. Better luck next time, Mark.
By Tommy
January 3, 2009 9:18 PM | Link to this
Mark you seem to have forgotten that your team still are the falcons. That was alot of BOLD talk about being happy and blessed to play the Cardinals at there house in the first round. Just tell me one thing how does that DIRTY BIRD TASTE! HA HA HA HA! And Atlanta fan don’t get your undies in a bunch I am not talking about you just that arrogant a* of a reporter.
By Atl Cards
January 3, 2009 9:53 PM | Link to this
Mark,
Are you feeling pretty blessed today? Good call on the trip to ARI as a “blessed” event. How did that work out for your opinion? Good thing your paid by the word and not the accuracy.
By Donald Case
January 3, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this
“If you have to play on an opponents field in January, you pray Arizona is the opponent. “
Were we loud enough for you, Mr. Bradley?
If you have to play on an opponent’s field in January, or any time, you most likely do NOT want to play in Arizona. Now you know. And you won’t ever forget it.
By Donald Case
January 3, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this
“If you have to play on an opponents field in January, you pray Arizona is the opponent. “
Were we loud enough for you, Mr. Bradley?
If you have to play on an opponent’s field in January, or any time, you most likely do NOT want to play in Arizona. Now you know. And you won’t ever forget it.
By azcardinal4
January 3, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this
LOL LOL thanks for the comments.It was nice seeing the quote on the jumbo tron before kickoff.The crowd got even louder! Too bad his arrogant a* wont apologize in tomorrows column.Good year Falcons fans!Good column moron!
By REDBIRDRAGE
January 3, 2009 11:03 PM | Link to this
WOW, What happened- AZ didn’t get the message that they were weak and going to lose?
Oh, I see that was meant for the Fal’cons’-
Hope your boy brought their golf clubs…there’s plenty of time to play for them.
By az cardinals
January 4, 2009 12:06 AM | Link to this
well, well, well, genius boy, you need to change your screen name…genius boy you ain’t and mr bradley, you are a raving moron, who would write such drivel as you do?? not anyone with any credibility at all as a sports writer. you and genius boy must be related!
By Lawls
January 4, 2009 12:16 AM | Link to this
*By Genius Boy
December 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
In other words.the Falcons/Cardinals game will prove to be nothing more than a warm-up scrimmage for the Falcons!
The Cardinals are NOT a good football team. They are, in essence, in the Playoffs by default. Again the Cardinals will be manhandled by the Falcons. I wont even come back to the bulletin board after the game on Saturday to say I told you so..the reason being.this is just too easy to predict.*
You’re right, you won’t be back to say “I told you so” but will you be back to eat your words? LOL Genius Boy
By Cards Fan
January 4, 2009 12:37 AM | Link to this
Be careful what you wish for Genius Boy. The Jiffy Pop was a rockin’ today! It was as loud as I have EVER heard it!
Any new comments? Hmmm???
No running game, no heart, don’t belong…we have heard it all before. And ya know what? we like that! No national respect…and that’s OK. 12 teams were invited to the dance and everyone started 0-0. Now we are moving on!
The Falcons have a GREAT young nucleus! I enjoyed watching them today. Ryan is the real deal. After they scored in the 4th I looked up and saw we were now only up by 6. One mistake and the Falcons could have escaped with the victory (even though they wouldn’t have covered the spread…).
Bottom line…don’t have the Cardinals! They EARNED that victory today!
By Marshal from Gilbert, AZ
January 4, 2009 1:23 AM | Link to this
I live in Phx and of course I’m a huge Cards fan. But I also like the Dirtybirds. Great team and a class franchise. But Mr. Mark Bradley, you are eating crow. Your article was just dumb. You probably didn’t watch one Cardinals game this year. The Cardinals are almost invincible at home. On the road…that’s another story. But you have to be feeling dumb right now. Hopefully you learned a valuable lesson - humility.
By Cards Fan
January 4, 2009 1:27 AM | Link to this
Genius Boy…Where are you? We out her in the desert are anxiously awaiting your next post.
I just went back a few months and I believe I read that you posted that the Tampa Bay Rays were nothing more than a Double A team too…
I am not here to talk smack to the loyal Falcon fans who fully believed that the team that had played all year would show up in the desert. But the playoffs is all about a few plays. The Falcons made some…the Cards made more.
Idiots like Genius Boy ruin it for all of the objective fans of your team. He virtually assured a major a*-stomping. I thought of his posts the entire game, and smiled at the end. I could no longer yell, cause I had no voice! No matter what happens next weekend, I am proud of our birds out here in the desert!
By Cards Fan
January 4, 2009 1:30 AM | Link to this
my prior post should have read don’t HATE the Cards rather than have…
My bad…
By BigBadBert
January 4, 2009 3:04 AM | Link to this
Just wanted to check in to see if any of you mouths (especially the tool who wrote this article) would come back to eat your crow which you so lovingly prepared for yourself.
It’s still warm, come get it, cowards. I wont razz you too bad otherwise you might just decide your team’s former credo and go abuse an animal or something. Isn’t that how the Failkins roll? I wouldn’t want that.
This game was inevitable for you, your fans were cocky, your media was cocky, your players were cocky.
Matt Ryan was on ESPN this morning saying it was going to be “FUN to advance through the playoffs.”
Well Mattyboi… Didja have fun?
Cardinals 30 Falcons 24
Mike Turner, 42yds Matt Ryan, 2int’s.
GO CARDINALS
By Mark
January 4, 2009 3:09 AM | Link to this
Hi, Mark. As a Cardinal fan, I just loved your story about how the Falcons were going to steam roll the Cardinals. Once I read it, I knew there was no way in Hell they’d lose. Way to jink the home team. Please feel free to write about how the Cards will lose to the Giants or Panthers in the next round, a game that the Falcons will be watching from their couches.
By j2director6b
January 4, 2009 4:40 AM | Link to this
Great call on that game, you idiot!!! LOL!!! The Cardinals are moving on and Michael Vick gets one phone call a week!!!!
By AZulike
January 4, 2009 4:51 AM | Link to this
nice, i couldnt beleive that this was a real article from a real publication at first. sorry all falcons fans but you can basically thank the d-bag that wrote this for all the motivation that the cards needed to win this game. maybe that guy should start writing obituaries instead of sports columns, wait no then i think things he wrote would really come back to haunt him. anyways good luck next year, matt ryan really looks good.
By jaiegh
January 4, 2009 8:04 AM | Link to this
Hey Mark how did that taste? it was sweet alright..guess what your going back east for to clean out your lockers. never under estimate the heart of a champion! hell after reading this debacle article i wanna play for the cards now.im all fired up….go red birds!!!!
By Atl Cards
January 4, 2009 9:26 AM | Link to this
Mark - I guess us Cards fans should thank you. Now I hope some hack in NY or Carolina writes a similar article:
“A lot of people in Atlanta were giving us no chance,” Arizona safety Adrian Wilson said. “There was a lot of talk in the paper from them about how it was a blessing for them to come out here — but it’s not sweet out here.”
Thank you for the motivation!!!!!
By John Lemings
January 4, 2009 10:05 AM | Link to this
Hey a*****!
30-24 Cards win!
Scoreboard says it all.
By Atl Fan
January 4, 2009 10:37 AM | Link to this
Mark you should be FIRED for giving the Cards that edge. Now dont we all feel stupid about thinking that would be an easy game.
By T in Tulsa
January 4, 2009 10:39 AM | Link to this
They say pride comes before a fall. Mark Bradley and his falcons just fell off the wagon that changed back into a pumpkin. Hey Mark, when you say, “move on to the next task”, did you mean, find what else to do for the remainder of January?
By T Higins
January 4, 2009 10:52 AM | Link to this
Nice call Bradley…you moron. Have you ever played the game? Well, you wanted a nice trip to the desert. How was the trip back to ATL? Writing out of your backside must be what you do best. I love the part where the coach “secretly” wanted to play the Cardinals….classic!
By Mark
January 4, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this
So, how do feel about being so “blessed” now moron? I would imagine that you feel a little more “over rated”. What a joke!
By Football Karma
January 4, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this
Perhaps in your next “private conversation” with Mike Smith, you should suggest he focus on winning the first playoff game instead of indulging grand fantasies about a march through the playoffs.
Enjoy the crow. Tastes like chicken, other than its very bitter and tough to swallow.
By BIG RED
January 4, 2009 11:52 AM | Link to this
GO BIG RED!!! Thats why Mark is not on ESPN and just a local paper boy. He doesnt know his sports!!!!
By NC Card fan
January 4, 2009 1:11 PM | Link to this
Thank you Mark. You were more important to the Cardinal win, as any Cardinal player was. Can you write about how the Cards have no chance in the Divisional playoffs? Nevermind, you need to focus on the Draft. Thanks again.
By Stone
January 4, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this
Anything to say now, smart guy? Obviously the fans who responded to your article had a better grasp of the ATL/AZ game than you did. Thanks for the motivation to get it done. Turner who?
We have a high percentage chance to lose in the next round, but this win was especially nice, if only to make you eat your words.
Congrats to the Falcons on a great season, and coach Smith on his award.
Go Cards!!!!
Stone
By karl
January 4, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this
THANK YOU!!!!!
By Jeremy Williams
January 4, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this
Wow did u sound retarded and now everyone in the NFL knows who you are and knows that you really do not know how to cover pre-games. Hey its alright though theres always next year and as for the Cardinals yeah we advance.
By azbombers
January 4, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this
Hey AJC…How does that Crow taste.I hope the rest of the field puts us down the way YOU did. We shut down your biggest weapon.Ask your QB about playing in “Blessed” enviorment of our Nest also known as the UOP…Who’s the Dirty Birds Now…Blowing you up…Bomers out…Cards on to the next round!
By Arizona
January 4, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this
I can’t tell if Bradley wrote this or Jayson Blair. Bradley must have pulled up ESPN.com, looked through the stats and their record and considered himself an expert on the Cardinals.
See what happens when you are full of it?
By AzBirdMan
January 4, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this
Worst playoff team in history?? Nice… Blessed… Don’t count your Falcons before they hatch. I’m not gonna be a soar winner, the Falcons played a great game… The Cardinals just had something to play for. And lets just say Boldin being hurt didn’t help our offense, witch still Ave 26ppg. Winning your division a mouth before the seasons end, your gonna see a lack of production from your defense. We played like we did in the beginning of the season, well balanced offense, and great defense.
By TrueCardFan80
January 4, 2009 3:39 PM | Link to this
Been a tried and true fan of the cardinals since i started watching football, every year it was “Well , MAybe Next Year.” 98’ gave me hope, after all we spanked longtime Rival Cowboys 20-7. Something about this year is much nicer, having a waaaay better team then the 98’ team and the rebirth of a running game that comes and goes. All i can say is that the better team won this round, now its back to the dog fight(no pun intended), Lets keep the momentum going Big Red!
By Luke
January 4, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this
haha nice column mark bradley… do you actually get paid for being a writer?
By Cards fan
January 4, 2009 3:45 PM | Link to this
haha nice column mark bradley… do you actually get paid for being a writer?
By notablessingabusting
January 4, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
a blessing sweetest consalation prize i think not cards werent the worst team to make playoffs yeah its the falcons so now go write your season ending story on the falcons how a trip to az was not a blessing title it not a blessing you call your self a writer answer blogs
By Catharsis
January 4, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
Thank you for the motivation!
By kyle
January 4, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this
I love it when sports writers drop their knowledge on us. Go ahead and predict when the world will end you crack head. The Falcons have turned the corner and the future looks bright for the organization. Hopefully, the Falcons will root for the Cardinals next week and Bradley will take a leave of absence. GO CARDS !!!!
By WaterBoy
January 4, 2009 7:00 PM | Link to this
Great motivation for the Cardinals, you moron. When you make comments like this you gotta know they are gonna end up on the opponents bulletin board. You could write for the Arizona Repulsive newspaper; about the same talent level as their beat writers. In your next column remind your readers that you were the guy that provided motivation to the Cardinals. Hey, and explain why you were so WRONG!!!
By sylvia
January 4, 2009 7:24 PM | Link to this
get a load of the philly Q standing in his own end zone firing bullets like that.
Wow. The vikes are in “bend but dont break” and giving away the ten yards underneath.
The vikes are open for a knockout punch in the form of a flat pass or a screen.
lovin this game
By ProvinYouWrong
January 4, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this
Man, this is really funny stuff. Would anyone like to tell me who won the game that occurred in Glendale, Arizone yesterday? I’m pretty sure the Cardinals. yes THE CARDINALS beat the Falcons. The team no one expected to win actually won and now you, Mark Bradley, look like an idiot. Keep writing and thank you for your help in the Cardinals win.
By Mark Bradley
January 4, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this
I’d like to thank all the Arizona fans for checking in. (Really! I’m being sincere!) I’d also like to thank Adrian Wilson of the Cardinals for reading.
And now, here goes: I was wrong.
By GoBigRedCards
January 4, 2009 11:16 PM | Link to this
You are a genius, us true cardinal fans want to thank you for such a great motivating article… maybe you can write one for us this week…… btw Ryan does look good hate to face him a few years down the road…. but you cant count old grey beard out I think Warner has got this team of birds believing….
By eazc, tempe
January 4, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mark, you were quite the nostradamus (i had to look it up) with that prediction…..Any chance you also write for the Charlotte Observer….Enjoy your off-season, tool, errrr Mark.
P.S. I do believe that Matt Ryan will dominate the NFL in the very near future (and I am serious)….GO CARDS and RISE UP, RED SEA
By DRC
January 4, 2009 11:40 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the motivation last week Mark. Usually we dont listen to you guys but i must admit the D was not impressed with you. Anyway all the best next week covering the falcons……….oh wait.
By Rod
January 5, 2009 12:32 AM | Link to this
Mark,
Ask coach Smith what he thought about the article you wrote. Im sure he was thrilled to know you were the main article that the Cardinals focused in on.
Im not a reporter but I belive that in press confereces that are covered by so called reporters there are follow up questions. Yes?? If so here would be a chance for you to follow up and admit that you were wrong on your perdiction. Im sure you felt confident when you wrote it but nonetheless you were wrong. However becasue you were such great motivation for us. I would ask you to write another article busting our balls. Seriously, no joking that is the least you could do for us. The article was articulate and completely WRONG!!! Well done jock snifer. Your are the true definition of a TOOL. Your lucky that the Falcons dont beat your axx for such a rediculous article. What were you thinking. Exactly you werent thus you get to write about this years draft. Try defense. The Cardinals were the worst rushing offense in the entire NFL yet we ran at will agasinst the rentless Falcons DDefense. As for as your Adub comment. UHHH?? Mark, that was a good one. About as good as your article. Jock snifing wanta be athlete that you could never be so you took up writing becuase you were the kid in high shool that no one wanted on their team. Thus you decided to show off just how smart you were. Yet at the end of the day your the same kid that no one wanted to be on their team. Im sure you co- workers are real pround of your work. Cardinal fans sure are. Keep up the good work and I will be looking for another masterpiece from you this week. LMAO!!!!
By Brett
January 5, 2009 12:45 AM | Link to this
Come on, Mark!
You know you aren’t supposed to drink the haterade.
Next time do your research before your words are projected in front of the red sea.
It’s ok though, though, we’ll do the dirty bird for you in Carolina.
By albert einstein
January 5, 2009 12:49 AM | Link to this
this text will be italic You talk about turning points, Smith said. That was a turning point. Our young quarterback completed 8 of 9 passes, and we showed we could handle a surge on the road. The outcome [a 24-9 loss] wasnt what we wanted, but you felt very proud about what we were able to accomplish.
The Falcons would win four of their next seven road games, and not since that first half on Sept. 14 have they seemed overwhelmed anywhere.
THAT IMPRESSES YOU?
By Robert
January 5, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this
Mark, it’s unbelievable that you would get paid to write what you wrote. It’s absolutely moronic that you didn’t give the Cards any chance. I understand you picking the Falcons, but saying that this was a blessing and that the Falcons prayed for the Cards? Stupid. You know it, and yet you wait until a day and a half after the game is over and all the Cards fans have stopped commenting to simply say you were wrong. Not that you were sorry for your trash of an article, just that you were wrong. News flash—> We know you were wrong! Everybody knows it and now they’re laughing at you. Have fun with that.
By Robert
January 5, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this
Mark, it’s unbelievable that you would get paid to write what you wrote. It’s absolutely moronic that you didn’t give the Cards any chance. I understand you picking the Falcons, but saying that this was a blessing and that the Falcons prayed for the Cards? Stupid. You know it, and yet you wait until a day and a half after the game is over and all the Cards fans have stopped commenting to simply say you were wrong. Not that you were sorry for your trash of an article, just that you were wrong. News flash—> We know you were wrong! Everybody knows it and now they’re laughing at you. Have fun with that.
By Danny Heksolson
January 5, 2009 1:37 AM | Link to this
Well, yeah right!!! Respect the cardinals, now theyll show you!! I like the Falcons and respect coach Smiths work, but you just opened your big mouth too early without know a s** about my red birds; now respect came after you… The cards are at least the fourth best team in the NFC, swallow that!!
By eb
January 5, 2009 2:02 AM | Link to this
Firstoff, I didn’t know there were any Cardinals fans. Heck, they had a tough enough time selling out their first playoff game in years. Secondly, looks like the same idiot using different names to post messages. Lastly, enjoy one & done Cardinals, because Carolina will enjoy kicking your sorry a*. Oh, and BTW…the Falcons are a way better team any day of the weak.
By Hahahaha
January 5, 2009 2:19 AM | Link to this
Only three rookie quarterbacks to win a postseason game and I believe Matt Ryan isn’t one of them. Maybe you should have read the odds of him getting a victory before writing such an absurd prediction. Way to be oblivious to the fact that Edge was starting after a huge momentum building game against the Seahawks, maybe the Falcons overlooked that as well. Anyways, maybe you were just ignorant or ill-informed but it really helped us out. Thank you!
ps (Can you write about how the Cardinals will get annihilated against the Panthers? It would be appreciated)
Regards
By Hahahaha
January 5, 2009 2:20 AM | Link to this
Only three rookie quarterbacks to win a postseason game and I believe Matt Ryan isn’t one of them. Maybe you should have read the odds of him getting a victory before writing such an absurd prediction. Way to be oblivious to the fact that Edge was starting after a huge momentum building game against the Seahawks, maybe the Falcons overlooked that as well. Anyways, maybe you were just ignorant or ill-informed but it really helped us out. Thank you!
ps (Can you write about how the Cardinals will get annihilated against the Panthers? It would be appreciated)
Regards
By Robert
January 5, 2009 2:44 AM | Link to this
How does that crow taste?
By Robert
January 5, 2009 2:46 AM | Link to this
How does that crow taste?
By Danny Heksolson
January 5, 2009 4:34 AM | Link to this
Wow, I havent red the whole story Mark my man!! I think I have to explain how any team in this league deserve respect specially from media guys like you, regarding my beloved Cardinals… I am not even american, but I love the game and understand it perfectly; Im from a country [Mexico] in which soccer rules and in which enjoyment for the NFL teams translate in a bunch of fake fans supporting the most famous teams or “classic winning teams” [Even my mom for example is a Cowboys fan, or my dad is a Packers fan] In such an enviroment, one day of 1978 travelling thru USA with my dad weve got inside a mall and he wanted to buy a Packers jacket for me, he said I went through the hallways and came with a Cardinals one instead stating I prefered that one…
Since that very moment the Cards have been a very important part of my life and of course I have suffered with them thru the time. Now I have directv sunday ticket just to follow them every week from Mexico City and I am very very happy with the results so far, it is a very special time Cardinals fans!! But my point is, that you can not write articles like that, hurting people not only from AZ, but as in my case, from the world!!!
An NFL team could be a great inspiration in anyones life and you as a writer have to respect that; the Cardinals are IMPORTANT IN THIS LEAGUE, important enough to inspire people in an unthinkeable country for such a long time [I was 5 then , now Im 35]
So, go CARDINALS, I will be your fan forever and ever!!!
And Falcons fans: I truly respect your team, I like the work coach Smith has done and Matt should be your franchise QB, Im amazed how he won games with that Ice on his veins! Like the Cards, the Falcons are among the leagues underdogs and they soon will win the SB. I wish good luck to you Atlanta people [nice city!] and please Mark Bradley, we NEED an apology, please!!
By boot
January 5, 2009 8:19 AM | Link to this
Back off, Pancho, the only wildcard team going anywhere is the Chargers.
The Chargers came to fruition in late season and are on a tear. They’ll be all any playoff team can handle.
The Giants should make it to the superbowl on the other side. I dont know if the Giants can beat the Chargers or not.
I’m an Eli Manning devote. I have a soft spot for gangly pups. Isn’t he the most lovable quarterback ever? (after YA Tittle).
By Football Fan
January 5, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this
I was at this game, it was great. From the pregame where they put this stupid quote up on the jumbo-tron to when the Falcons came out, saw the quote and saw they had maybe 12 fans out of 66,000 in the stadium, I think this got into their heads. They knew from before the kickoff that they were in trouble. AZ was better on offense, defense and special teams. The Cardinals would win this matchup, especially at home, 4 out of 5 times at least. Future hall of fame QB vs Rookie of the Year(who looked a rookie at times). It is nice that you ATL fans support your team, but it’s obvious you don’t know much about the rest of the NFL. Falcons are much improved, but so are the Cardinals.
Anyway, fruitcake, thank you for the bulletin board material and for helping AZ win the game. Bradley, you are truly an idiot, as bad as the morons that write for the Arizona Republic.
By Jasmine
January 5, 2009 5:01 PM | Link to this
Did they have to use the jaws of life to extract your foot from your mouth? I guess it was Arizona who received the “blessing.” Better luck with your predictions next year.
By jesse
January 6, 2009 12:39 AM | Link to this
hahaha we won go cards
By sean
January 6, 2009 3:29 PM | Link to this
F U !! MARK!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By chris
January 7, 2009 8:07 AM | Link to this
To mark bradley…I hope you love eating your words!!You have to be the dumbest..most arrogant person I have ever seen!!!Well enjoy the offseason!!lol!!P.S. Go cardinals!!!
By chris
January 7, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this
Someone like you makes me wonder how you get the job you do..It sounds like a first grader could have your job!!Just run your mouth and talk about things you don’t know about or understand!!Damn..I want your job!!haha..you should be fired!! your a moron mark bradley..and everyone know’s it now!!!haha!!
By Big Red
January 7, 2009 2:06 PM | Link to this
I love people like you. Nothing feels better then when jerks like you become a joke. Well come to Phoenix some time I will show you the West Side. GO CARDINALS. It has to be a crappy day in HOTLANTA. What a joke.
By ilaughtatbradley
January 7, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this
ha mark bradley quite ur job. Or at least quit ur opinions. ur an idiot. slap yourself
By Tom Bush
January 7, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this
This article has turned out to be a VERY humorous one. Thank you for it.
By rta
January 8, 2009 1:22 AM | Link to this
The crowd was loud and proud scoreboard b***!
By rta
January 8, 2009 1:22 AM | Link to this
The crowd was loud and proud scoreboard b***!
By OG-CARD FAN
January 8, 2009 2:17 AM | Link to this
This for genius boy, eb, and my new best friend Mark. to quote shaq TELL ME HOW MY ARSS TASTE! To the falcon fans your team came out of the mike vick crap-heap to 11-5 well done atl. Only try to tell yourQB TO NOT LIFT HIS LEG BEFORE THE SNAP next year or it will be a very long 2009 season. Everything from here on is bonus time for us. 2009 will be our year. GO BIG RED!
By Panther_Fan
January 8, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this
Please the Cardinals are the worst playoff team, play that game in Atlanta and they kick y’all arse every time. But your coming to OUR house on Saturday and you won’t be victorious. QUOTE THAT.
By OG-CARD FAN
January 9, 2009 3:54 AM | Link to this
Please panther cub. If the cards new how to finish on the road.they would be your only loss at home this year.Panther cub you and i both know , you got a huge break on that smith sideline . out of bounds no doudt. But hey that was then and you know you wanted the falcons instead.This is now you have everything to lose and the cards our playing with house money. DONT let the cards go up 14 on you this time there will be NO! comeback panther cub.GO CARDS!
By TrueCardfan80
January 11, 2009 12:14 AM | Link to this
Looks like the better team won again. WoW, Cardinals 33 Panthers 13, keep on doubting us, its all good baby!
GO CARDINALS!
By Ummm...
January 19, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this
anything you’d like to say yet?
no?
oh…
By гoлЬeтти
January 29, 2009 7:35 AM | Link to this
Что касается непосредственно, то мне кажется актуальность будет выяснена только через какое-то время.