AJC > Sports > Blog > Archives > 2007 > December > 12 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USOn a plane to Arkansas
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Getting ready to get on a plane to Fayetteville, Ark. I don’t know how many answers I’m going to get when I land in Wal-Mart Country, but I sure have a lot of questions for the folks at the University of Arkansas. Such as:
1. Do you people have any idea what you’ve done? Bobby Petrino is one of those guys who looks good on paper, but as a human being he has absolutely no communication or people skills. Other than his wins at Louisville, what about this man appealed to you to hire him as a representative of your university?
2. Have you forgotten November, 2003? That is when Petrino sat in a plane in an airport near Louisville and basically tried to put himself in position to take Tommy Tuberville’s job. Petrino had worked for the guy at Auburn just the year before. Why would you hire someone who would stab somebody in the back like that?
3. He lied to Arthur Blank. Don’t you think he’ll lie to you? On Monday, Petrino assured the Falcons owner that he had worked through his problems and would be back next season. On Tuesday he phoned Blank to let him know that he was quitting. If Petrino will lie to a man like Blank, he’ll certainly lie to the athletics director and chancellor of the University of Arkansas.
4. Are you THAT desperate to win? I know that you wanted to hire a sitting head coach and that Tommy Tuberville, Tommy Bowden, Jim Grobe, and Butch Davis all decided to stay put. I know that you had told some coordinators that if this deal didn’t get done, you were ready to go the route of hiring a top assistant. But there are a lot of good coaches out there with a lot less baggage than this guy.
5. Do you realize what a PR hit this university is going to take? Arkansas will survive, of course. But for the next few weeks this school is going to be the poster-child of what’s wrong with college athletics because of this hire. After all of the controversy surrounding Houston Nutt, which led to his bolting to Ole Miss, are you sure THIS is the direction you want to go? Do you think for a minute that Darren McFadden or Felix Jones will want to play for this guy? They already had one foot out the door. Now they will go running to the NFL.
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Comments
By TDone
December 12, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this
Tony,
I think the answer to all five questions is, “Yes, but we don’t care.”
By braveswin
December 12, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this
The ship is sinking (Blanks ownership) and the rat has decided to save itself. Blank has no more business owning an NFL franchise than I do.He is a bigger disgrace to the Falcons than The Smith family.The NFL should pull the plug on this fool and appoint some leadership or just take this abomination out of Atlanta.This franchise is the biggest joke in the history of (so called) professional sport.
By Bob
December 12, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this
Every day I thank the Lord that Mark Richt is the head football coach at the University of Georgia. Kudos to Tech too, because I think they have a man of class as well. Some of these guys are pretty pathetic.
By Eric1
December 12, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this
You’re wrong about Aruthur Blank, bravesboy. He’s a good man and a good owner. It’s not his fault that the people he trusted stabbed him in the back. As for pistrino, I’m glad he’s gone and he deserves to be in Arkansas and they deserve to have him. Where else in the world could white trash feel more comfortable.
By braveswin
December 12, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this
Also, if Blank doesn’t go out and hire a proven winner,ie Bill Cower then all of Ga should boycott the Home Depot and the Falcons games (although it looked like the Falcons and the fans fans both failed to show up Mon).Blank has not made a single decent hire since he bought the team.HE IS THE BIGGEST PROBLEM.HE is the one who hired the quitter,HE is the one who gave Vick no accountability.HE NEEDS TO GO.GO FALCONS,and take the Hawks with you
By GW
December 12, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this
Sure, Petrino will have one eye on the Razorbacks and one eye on another job but who can really blame him for leaving the Falcons. As for Arkansas’ motives, they were getting in dire straits. Their board was still split after Nutt’s departure and I’m sure they are hoping to milk at least two years out of Petrino. I wonder where Falcon LBer coach Brian VanGorder will end up in this coaching carousel. It could be Arkansas or South Carolina.
By braveswin
December 12, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this
Eric1,so the owner and leader of the franchise has zero accountability for putting his faith in people like MV and Petrino?And firing Dan Reeves,the man that took this franchise further than anyone ever has?Blank is in over his head,this city needs to figure it out and move on
By Matthew
December 12, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this
Petrino made a name for himself in the Big East then went to the NFL where he proved himself to be a joke. He’s going to have the same realization in the SEC.
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this
TDone, Finally something we can agree on.
Bobby just joins the ranks of the “Two Face Coaches Club”. You know Nicky “Two Face” $aban, Booby “Two Face” Petrino.
Tony, Can we call him BOOBY Petrino now? That should have been the only question you asked. And I would answer Yes to that.
By eric 2
December 12, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this
Can we get Dan Reeves back?
By Orville Faubus
December 12, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this
Wallering with the hawgs is a good place for Petrino. Woooooooo Pig Sooooey!
By Nick
December 12, 2007 9:02 AM | Link to this
Tony:
To answer your questions is easy, yes, but remember this is a University that took the word of a dumb High School kid over a proven winner in Houston Nutt. It is sad that this is what College Athletics is coming to. I can say this, if I was a parent for a recruit I wouldn’t want my child to play for such a dishonorable man!
By Ricky
December 12, 2007 9:02 AM | Link to this
Coach Mark Richt is the best college hire in the last 10 years, not only for his winning percentage, but his loyalty and character. Who would have ever thought when UGA hired CMR that fans and school administraters would be clamouring to give him a raise every year and whatever else he would want to make UGA successful.
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this
2004 “Thank you for flying me down here in the middle of the night Mr Lowder”
2005 “Thank you for the 10 year extension and believing in me Louisville”
2006 “Thank you for the 5 year contract and believing in me Mr. Blank”
2007 “Thank you Mr. Broyle (Broyles for those in the know) for the five year contract and believing in me”.
By baloney
December 12, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this
Ol sneaky snake.
By Roswell Ed
December 12, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this
Thank you Booby,
No one is talking about MV7 any more.
THANK YOU THANKYOU!!
Be careful what you ask for Ark.
He’ll drop you in a New York minute.
By baloney
December 12, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
I say this with a straight face. The Falcons would be better off moving the franchise to another city. It simply has not worked here. The city could wait a few years then get another franchise and start again.The Flacons have had so much misery that they will always have a stinch about them that will only go away when they go away. The NFL has a history of giving cities (usually that aren’t deserving) another chance for a franchise.
By marshall
December 12, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
Blank is one of those “ego” ownners. Where’s Rich McKay? Almost all NFL teams have their GMs out front when bad stuff arises. Unlike Jerry Jones ,who understands the game, Blank is a naive amateur. Rich McKay is hiding in the tall grass or Blank is keeping there.
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this
Looks like $aban has some stiff competition in the West now. Wonder which two faced liar will recruit better.
By Illinois Jacket
December 12, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this
Bob, although my loyalties lie with another institution in the state, I must agree with you that Mark Richt is the class of the SEC coaches. Character begets character. I also appreciate your sentiment about our new hire. I think the AD has done a good job.
With respect to the quitter, to paraphrase the narrator in Jerry Maguire, may you enjoy the success of Dennis Franchione.
By GUS
December 12, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this
I hope Brian Van Gorder is left cleaning toilets at Stuckey’s truck stop. People don’t realize that HE was the most low-life coach on the Falcons staff, NOT Petrino. They are, however, two quitters who deserve to stick together.
GOOOOOO GEORGIA SOUTHERN EAGLES!!!! HATCH ATACK BABY!
By Bk Hawk
December 12, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this
Falcons will never win till the fans and players stop this Vick worship and get on with football. Monday nights game was the Vicks Show not football. The players display for Vicks, fans display and ESPN talked the whole game about Vick. That’s not football and it don’t win games. Life goes on, time to forget and move on.
By Mike in Arkansas
December 12, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this
Do I believe everything or anything a sports writer says? No. I don’t know what Petrino said or how he said it .. maybe he was smiling ..I don’t know. I do know as I was watching the Falcons play the other night I was thinking .. how can any coach stay there? What a bad situation. I am happy to have him and the players are ecstatic. Now if the sportwriters will just mind there own business all will be well. Sportswriters try to make news .. not report it.
By 3volpaul
December 12, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this
No one should blame Petrino for the leaving the Falcons. Rudderless, made for TV preening owner, never to win anything franchise, it probably dawned on him to cut for the at least understandable insansity of college football. At least he won’t have as many blown-up egos in Arkie.
Dealing with people in Mustangs is easier than those with self-import in their 24” wheeled Escalades. Shame the only honor escaping the Falcons has been taken by the Dolphins. Best Record.
By NASCARfan
December 12, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this
Hey, there’s only one Booby in Atlanta, and his last name is Cox!!!
As for Petrino, I don’t blame him. He was sold a Cadillac and found out it was really a Yugo.
The Falcons are the worst run organization in the NFL. And yes, that includes Miami and Detroit and SanFran.
Arthur Blank needs to keep his @$$ in the owner’s box where it belongs and off the sideline being a distraction to the players and the coaches.
Rich McKay needs to be fired for drafting THUGS like MeAngelo Hall and no-talent, low-character players like Jimmy Williams and Michael Jenkins who don’t want to work hard.
Bill Cowher needs to be hired to right this ship. Let him bring his own personnel guy and let give them free reign, and for God sakes, Blank, STOP MEDDLING AND STAY OFF THE SIDELINE!!!
As for Arkansas, they just don’t get it. They will never be Georgia. They will never be LSU. The will never be Florida. Hell, they aren’t even Tennessee or Auburn at this point.
I guarantee that when Fat Phil gets fired, Petrino will send his agent to Knoxville to enquire about the job.
I guarantee that when Les Miles leaves LSU, even if it is next week, Petrino will send his agent to Baton Rouge to enquire about the job.
He wants an SEC job, but he, like Tubbyville, wants a better SEC then the first one he got.
He’s not long for Arkansas.
Wooo pig sooey? Is there a more embarrassing and red neck call in the SEC? Even that Wooah, war eagle! cry is much better. I know the SportsCenter guys were making fun of it last night.
By B
December 12, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
D Hall needs to put up or shut up…another reason team don’t win. what a joke.
By Whistlebritches
December 12, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
Who can blame Petrino for leaving the Falcons? However, you can blame him for not getting the job done and rising to a challenge. As an Auburn fan this gives me another reason to dislike Arkansas. However, now that he’s in the SEC West (his fortunes will not be as they were at Louisville), but there is no better coached conference or division in the country with Tubs, Saban, Miles, Nutt, Croom, and Petrino. The other side has 4 pretty popular guys as well with a fifth coach (Vanderbilt) that is completely underrated. Good riddens from ATL, hire Cowher, and more than ever Pig Souie, whatever the heck that means.
By Davis McCollum
December 12, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
King Aurthur deserves sooo much better. I bet he also wishes he could just crawl back into that comfy orange apron. After the Dome issues, No catch Peerless, MV7, Petrino, etc… a price check don’t look so bad anymore.!
By John Miles
December 12, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this
This article serves as my Christmas present for the year! Mr. Barnhart, you made my holday season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!
By DJISTHEGREATESTFOOTBALLPLAYERINTHEHISTORYOFFOOTBALL
December 12, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this
So what. While I agree that guy has a history. But man…..How can anyone be blamed for leaving the Falcons. A team of thugs and misfits. They still celebrate Mike Vick, a low life of the worst kind. And who cares what D Hall has to say, that clown will be broke as soon as his last contract expires.
By Dave
December 12, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this
Petrino signed a contract and resigned before it was done. This is something new? Players and coaches do this all the time and most of the people that complain are the fans of the team they jilted. Players no show at training camps, even though they have a year or two left on their contract. This is news?
News flash, the Falcons have an awful collection of players who have an even worse attitude. They want “respect” while they give none and perform poorly. Petrino demanded respect as a coach, which he will get from the college game. Pro football is much more about stroking egos, managing egos and giving them what they want under the guise of “coachng”. Like the old saying goes, “The easiest way to motivate is to eliminate the unmotivated.” That would be at least half the Falcon’s team. Bobby, while I still don’t condone what you did, I understand it. I hope you finally get a group of players that will respect an authority figure, work hard towards a common goal and stop pointing the finger at everyone around them instead of accepting responsibility for their own p**-poor play and attitude.
By Whistlebritches
December 12, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this
Nascar Fan, They will never be a Georgia? I don’t see a lot of people until now ever wanting to be Georgia. You’re putting a UGA over UT and Auburn. Have you watched football in the last 10 years? Go dawgs, sickem, now that’s a battle cry. We’ll see how UGA does against a WAC team soon enough.
By DWG
December 12, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this
After the “Free Mike Vick” embarrassment in the endzone the other night, I don’t blame him for leaving. The Falcons need to clean house and start over again.
Should be interesting when ARk. plays bama next year. Will there be one truth told in the press conference?
I still think Miles is going to Michigan.
Is Tech the only program that is going to fire and hire a new coach the right way? I applaud Tech for making a great hire above board, unlike some other schools.
Very grateful and proud to have Mark Richt as our head coach.
By KR
December 12, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
Petrino’s departure was inevitable, whether through his own choosing or through Blank’s. Maybe it is best to have gotten it over with quickly.
For the record, I wouldn’t want either the Falcons or the Arkansas job. Both organizations are plagued with upper level micromanagers who don’t understand the job of head coach. Both organizations have fickle, unreasonable fan bases.
Small headline: Petrino’s successor at Auburn, Al Borges, is now gone. Should be interesting to see who is our new Offensive Coordinator.
WAR EAGLE!
By Brenda Johnson
December 12, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this
Tony, Man, you were right on about your article of Petrino. He is a big classless, gutless loser. The Falcons are so much better off without him. Arkansas will suffer too. What kind of coach will leave in the middle of the night to only have a school call a thrown together news conference at MIDNIGHT! Losers too! This guy is not anyone I would ever want to be associated with. I grew up an Alabama Fan and a Falcons fan and remember when Loser Francione left the Tide without saying goodbye to his players (he send an assistant back from Texas to tell them)…gutless and look what just happened to Mr. Franchione. I can only wish the same fate for Petrino. Arkansas should be embarassed, but I don’t think they are…typical! Perhaps this is a GOOD FIT for both! I think this is a Great thing for our Atlanta Falcons….Good Riddance Bobby!
By Randy
December 12, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this
No matter what the answer is to your non relevant questions, the real question is do you realize what a major train wreck that Blank sold to Petrino under the name of an NFL contender?
By STEVE LLOYD
December 12, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this
Wish I could just quit my job when things didn’t go my way or the way i thought they should. Most of us live in the real world, where you have to suck it up, and overcome adversity. Just another two-faced lying S.O.B. I would not hire a college coach for an NFL team, if he were the last coach on earth. About the only coach succesful from college to the NFL that comes to my mind is Jimmy Johnson.
By Football Fanatic
December 12, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this
Boycott Home Depot? Braveswin get a clue Blank does not own Home Depot anymore and even if he did what would that have to do with the Falcons?!?!?!
By Rick
December 12, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
Guys, the Falcons are now getting the same reputation as the Raiders. They are a buch of misfit athletes with bad attitudes who have been discarded by other professional teams. Reality is, WHO WOULD WANT TO COME TO ATLANTA AND COACH THIS BUNCH??? Ever notice how when some of the guys we let go or trade wind up being somewhat successful in other organizations? While hindsight is always 20/20, we have Michael Vick as or poster boy, a rediculous history of average, or most often, poor teams. We recycle coaches like we change socks. Has it ever occurred to anyone that IT AIN’T ALWAYS THE COACHES FAULT? In college if you don’t perform, you get benched, plain and simple. Now DHall complain that “he didn’t respect me” Well guess what…HE SHOULDN’T RESPECT YO IF YOU ACT LIKE A 7 YEAR OLD AND RUN YOUR MOUTH WHILE NOT PERFORMING! The coaches job is to take talent and put them in the best position to win. But if the players display their arrogance and decide to point fingers as to why THEY didn’t look good, they blame the coaching or the scheme. Yet another reason I don’t blame Petrino one bloody bit.
By McKayless
December 12, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
Tony, You obviously think Petrino sucks. So why do you care that he is going to Arkansas. You should be happy. Quit the b***.
I am not about to defend Petrino or anyone associated with the Falcons. It is a lousy organization. Headed by an owner who has a ton of money, a huge ego and knows JACK about football…translation: on par with the Redskins under their idiot owner.
McKay has been incredibly invisible for the last year…correction, since drafting Vick. Oh yeah, that owner guy, he must be the GM ‘cause we see him talking Falcons football all the time. Come to think of it, I wonder if McKay is still with the team. Anyone seen him lately? Translation: a team that is a mess. A team that needs help at just about every position except: KICKER. Yeah, our 60 yr old kicker is the best player, by position, on the team. Remarkable.
As for Petrino. Average at best. Better off at the college level. He was a hot, sizzle coach that the GM… no, sorry, lost my head … that the owner fell for. You know, the guy that is all about merchandizing and knows JACK about football.
Anyone remember Dan Reeves? Yeah, the guy who took the team to the Super Bowl and everyone complained about. Yeah, the coach that knew football AND would not put up with a meddling owner. Can’t wait to see who the next puppet will be.
Anyone seen McKay? Anyone??? Come on people, where is our football genius GM?
By reservoirDawg(formall noyellowinthisblood
December 12, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this
I don’t blame BP for leaving the Falcons at all. He came with the expectation of having #7 to run the offense. Obviously that didn’t work out and he was left with idiots like Roddy and their T-shirts and overrated players like Meangelo. Nascar I couldn’t agree more about your sentiment of BP jumping ship again at the best oppurtunity.
By Yellowjacket33
December 12, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this
Braveswin you are a moron. Arthur Blank is the best thing that happened to the falcons as far as ownwer go.
By College Guy
December 12, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
Petrino comes from the same cesspool as Nick Satan and Les Miles. Arkansas is a perfect match for his low class immoral “coach”.
By NASCARfan
December 12, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
Whistlebritches, you’re an idiot.
In the last ten years, Tennessee hasn’t won a single SEC Championship.
In the last ten years, Auburn has won exactly one.
In the last ten years, Georgia has been one of two teams in ALL of college football to finish in top-25 every year. In the last ten years, Georgia has won 2 SEC Championships, 3 1/2 East titles, ten wins or more 5 times, ten straight bowl games, and now 3 BCS Bowls.
Whistlebritches, I think you’re the one who needs to watch a little more college football, because you’re a moron.
Once again, Arkansas and their fans suffers from Clemson Syndrome. They think they’re better than they are because they have one or two years in the total history in which they won big. They need to know who they are and understand who they are.
They are not Georgia, LSU, or Florida. Once again, they’re not even Auburn or Tennessee. They’re probably the seventh-best team in the SEC on a consistent basis. Yeah, Houston Nutt did a great job in his years at Arkansas, winning 2 1/2 West titles, going to the Dome twice.
But, Petrino or no Petrino, Arkansas and their fans need to realize that was Nutt doing an awesome job, and even success like that should not be expected.
By Charles Mullins
December 12, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
As a University of Louisville Alumni and fan, I can only say “welcome to Booby’s world” and ask “why are you surprised?”
This is a man who interviewed with every school that would talk to him every year, all the while protesting that he “was totally committed to UL.” In fact, after the Orange Bowl, he stated that he was working hard to bring UL “to the next level.” Less than 24 hours later he signed with you guys. We (UL alumni) now know that he was talking to Falcon personnel over a month earlier. This is the status of coaching in major college and professional football.
I am reminded of the old country song telling about a woman who takes in a frozen snake, thaws him out and saves his life, only to be bitten. When she complains, the snake says “oh hush up. You knew I was a snake when you took me in.”
You (Atlanta) hired him away from us. You got him to break a 10-year contract (signed less than a month earlier) to come here. And now you are surprised when he breaks this contract to go somewhere else? But you knew he was a snake “when you took him in.”
Charles E. Mullins Olney, Maryland
By Raleigh Dog
December 12, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this
Poetic justice for Blank. He stole Petrino from Louisville and now he gets the same treatment. Once a cheater, always a cheater. The question is when will Petrino get his dose of medicine in the form of poetic justice. When will his ship sink with him on board or will he just keep abandoning ship after ship? And how do you tell your players not to quit or get them to trust you when you are both a quitter and untrustworthy?
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
We forget that it is not that he left Atlanta. IT IS THE WAY HE LEFT! Why couldn’t he tell Blank that this is not what I envisioned when I got here. I thought I had a QB in place. I don’t think I can do this anymore I prefer to go back to the college level. Arkansas is looking and I am interested in that. With you r permission I would like to talk to them. I think Blank is man enough to say go ahead I understand.
What do you have when your integrity and respect is gone?
By Gene
December 12, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
Frank Broyles is a fine man from the old school, and I doubt if he had anything to do with this travesty. The problems is, most college presidents are politicians and not educators. Had anyone been concerned about Mike Vick’s education, he might have learned something about decent behavior. I knew some people over the years who played football for Woody Hayes and some who played for Bear Bryant. These were two very tough coaches, but the people I knew learned something from their coaches and held them in high respect. I still hold my high school coach in high esteem, and many things I learned from him remain with me nearly 50 years later. What can young men learn from Petrino? Never give up? Fight through adversity? Honesty? Integrity? Arkansas is near the bottom in academic achievement among universities, yet the president and AD have deep pockets when it comes to hiring a liar and opportunist like Petrino. Arthur Blank was unwise to hire him in the first place and it jumped up and bit him as well as the city of Atlanta. It will do the same for Arkansas.
By Bob
December 12, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
Whistlebritches,
I understand your sentiments about NASCARfan. A lot of others, including a lot of Georgia fans share the same. But don’t pontificate about UT and Auburn somehow being on a higher level. How many SEC titles have the Big Orange won since Richt arrived 7 years ago? Yup, zero. How many times have the Vols finished ranked higher than the wooofing Dawgs? Once, in Richt’s first year. Since then it has been 6 consecutive years of being ranked below Georgia…in fact in two of those years the Vols were not even ranked.
I have a lot of respect for Auburn and I know UT is a top program, but don’t get carried away with your illogical dislike of Georgia.
By reservoirDawg(formall noyellowinthisblood
December 12, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this
I will gladly take the Atlanta head coaching job. I will make 3.5 million a year and win at least 4 games. I will stay for a maximum of two years and retire fat and happy to an island in the carribean.
By reddawg
December 12, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this
It is time for the fans of the Falcons to carefully weight their options. This team will never get any better as long as Blank is the owner. All that he knows about football can be summed up in 2 words. Ron Mexico.
I agree. Petrino is a loser. So what, add his name to thee list …. McKay, Hall, Vick, etal. Good or bad teams can be blamed on the coach; but Atlanta is not a bad team, it is an abortion. The old saying is that you can’t fire the entire team, so you change the coach. Fans, boycott the Falcons until they fire the deranged owner, and his pet puppet McKay.
By shane #1
December 12, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this
another carpet bagger gone,well boo hoo,take the money and run,quitter!now mr blank may get rid of makay and hire some real football people.makay has done one of the worst jobs of building a team that i have ever seen.terrible draft choices,injury ridden free agents,big contracts for players that do not produce,hiring coaches with no HC experence,and on and on.mr blank,now is your chance,hire a tough minded nfl coach wth a track record and give him the reins.let him clean out the deadwood,blow this”team”up,and start from scratch!you need a mean sob,a”big tuna”or a jimmy johnson.i don’t like jimmy johnson,but i could stand him for a couple of years while he builds a team!
By Desert Dawg
December 12, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
As a native Atlantan who was there when the Falcons arrived, I can truly say “I have lost interest”. College football is the only game I follow anymore. The NFL has no loyality (from anyone), absolutely no integrity, and ZERO character. Is anyone surprised at what has happened in Atlanta? The phrase “You reap what you sow” comes to mind.
If you want to change things in the Falcons organization, consider the following: 1. Move outside of Atlanta 2. Change the name, colors and logo to something that southerners can relate with. (maybe squirrels or possums—just kidding folks) 3. MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CHANGE 4. BRING IN A GM AND HEAD COACH OF CHARACTER AND INTEGRITY. (Take some $$ you save on M. Vick and Petrino and spend it on people like Cowher, Shottenheimer, etc.) People with proven records over 15-20 years are good bets.
The Falcons are losers, always have been, and always will be. YOU HAVE TO SHAKE IT UP AND MAKE SOME SIGNIFICANT CHANGES.
Arthur Blank is not the problem but CAN BE the solution. Only time will tell.
By Fort Worth Dawg
December 12, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
Hey Auburn fans This should be its own blog but: Who is Auburn targeting for OC? What are the rumors? Who would be your first couple of realistic choices? Does it seem strange that Borges was fired pre-Bowl game or does this indicate that Auburn had a replacement in mind?
I would think that the position would be an easy recruit (SEC, nice atmosphere and tradition, good potential for advancement). Off the top of my head I would think someone with ties to the states of Florida and Georgia would have an advantage for recruiting purposes.
By Tulane HOG
December 12, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this
5 Questions
A: Unfortunately no, but they taste damn good.
A: Probably not, but given the Falcons meteoric fall from grace, and the unfortunate circumstances surrounding it, love and forgiveness is certainly the best policy here. You already stole the lunch money from the kid on the short bus, no reason to beat him up too.
A. Not much actually, said aloud casually or in good company it sounds like just about the most pointless red-neck thing one could imagine. But when 90,000 hog fans scream it in Fayeteville, it sounds like a damn Tornado siren. Intimidating as hell really, and thats not me saying it, its Texas and USC, both who had multiple players said it was the most difficult stadium they’d ever played in. I’ll take the Hog Call over a Dog Bark (one of oh… 50 in the nation… heck its not even original in the conference)… Calling an eagle when your mascot is a tiger… or having to wear a hat with (game)C** on it in (ironically) big letters.
Well I was, until all you knotheads started giving him such a hard time. The press for this has given his reputation such a blemish that he’s going to have to think long and hard before jumping for just any job. Heck, all this Bit$@ by Falcon, Auburn, and UGA/fair weather Falcon fan has probably added two years to his minimum tenure. THANKS GUYS!
Hmmmmm… tough one…. NO! Tommy Bowden’s a sound coach that will never break through to the upper level, he has a ceiling, say like, Houston Nutt. Tubberville, he’s just as guilty as Petrino. He gave us a reach around while he bribed AU for more money, but wouldn’t sign the contract until he was sure he wasn’t in line for the LSU job. Pair that with the fact that he’s getting out recruited by Saban and is now surrounded on 3 sides by coaches that are better than him (Saban, Meyer and Petrino) and I’d predict steady decline. Whatever you want to say about Petrino’s time with the Falcons, you don’t see any NFL teams coming and offering Tommy 5 mil a year.
Hears the thing, whatever the talking heads want to say, within 12 hours of the hiring every recruit that has been contacted has said that they are now firm on AR. And 3 of the big time in state recruits that AR had lost to places like Southern Cal had announced they were all taking official visits to AR before finalizing their current verbal commitments. The SEC is too good to dominate, Urban Meyer, for all his talent as a coach, found that out this year. I’ll tell you though, Les Miles is a hack, and in 5 years I’ll bet you AR is back as an elite level program in the SEC.
By hallcountyobserver
December 12, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this
braveswin has to be the least informed poster i have ever read. all of you people who say that petrino didn’t have the team that he was promised are crazy. petrino was being paid 24 million dollars to deliver a winner, not the other way around. face it, petrino is a man of no honor.
By Gen Neyland
December 12, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this
The headlines could read, Have Game Plan, Will Travel…or, If You Got The Money Honey, I’ve Got The Time…No gold watch for Petrino from the Falcons…So what..? The Falcons imploded in 2007 due to many variables, but the one that looms large is bunking with Bubba tonight. Can’t blame Petrino on this one. He was sold a pig-in-a-poke…
By Bruno
December 12, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this
I can’t believe the sour grapes that I’m reading here. How can anyone blame Petrino? He was sold a bill of goods that never came to fruition, then the only thing good about the team goes to prison. The Falcons organization is a laughing stock…completely opposite of what they have down in Arkansas. Fayetteville is a growing classy town with culture and an easy lifestyle. The athletic program is one of the richest in the country with some of the best facilities, bar none. He will have no competition for fan support because Arkansas is the major university of the entire state. I think kids love the pig sooeee call and many want to be Razorbacks if the coaching staff is right. Now they have a proven offensive mind and will probably become one of the elite teams in the SEC. And don’t think you’re on morally higher ground to judge the likes of Petrino, Saban, Miles, Franchionne, etc. etc. the list goes on. It’s big time athletics, the coach has to look out for himself, because noone else will.
By cricket
December 12, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this
This really puts in perspective how lucky ATL is to have the braves - great organization with great leaders like John S. and Bobby Cox.
By SuwaneeDawg
December 12, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
I think T-Done said it best, “Yes, but we don’t care.”
I’m guessing Arkansas folks are saying they’re the ones to make him want to stay and put down some roots. But, what they don’t understand is that someone like Petrino never puts down roots and has no loyalty. It’s obvious that he is one who doesn’t think twice about stabbing his “friends” and mentors in the back (Tubberville) and those who show faith in him and give him a ridiculous amount of money to prove himself on the largest stage (Blank).
At first, after the shock, I could almost understand, considering all of the crap that he has dealt with since almost his first day on the job. Then, to find out that he never addressed the team and told Arthur Blank over the phone? Well, that’s simply a lack of any kind of class. Arkansas knows this and made the deliberate decision to hire him. Well, they get what they get. If he stays 5 years, I’ll be beyond shocked.
By Quincy C.
December 12, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this
Great article…change of pace from the LSU/Miles bashing…BCS BS…GA whining… The common denominator is Rich McKay….hired Mora…Petrino…fired Reeves…traded away what would have been LT and Drew Brees for Vick…drafted another Va Tech bum in Williams…Arthur get Cowher and make him GM/Coach…
Petrino is bacon…and Ar-Kansas is a fool…
By B. Thenet
December 12, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this
Thank God Michigan did not hire this clown.
There is something to be said for taking your time and making the right hire.
I can’t wait until Nutt and Tuberville take Arkansas to the woodshed the next couple of years.
By Whistlebritches
December 12, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
Nascar Fan, I agree with you about Arkansas. It is a second rate program in the SEC and their expectations are way too high. Also, Petrino will see this as another stepping stone. My point was, don’t begin to put UGA on the same plain as UF or LSU. I dislike both schools, but competing for and winning National Championships, SEC Championships, and division titles have been their staple. Tennessee won a NC in 98. Who won the UGA/UT game this year. How’d UGA do against a Big East team in the Sugar Bowl? I’m not saying UGA is that bad, because they’re good, my point is they are no higher than an Auburn team who has won or shared the West more times than 3 1/2. Tubs has beat more top 10 teams than any school. Richt has consistently won around 10 games, that’s awesome, but that’s not the elite level. As an Auburn fan, I accept the fact that we will be arond the top 5 every 3 or 4 years, and so should UGA. One NC in 80 and one Herschel Walker doesn’t make you an amazing program. Richt, is an amazing person and coach, but the reason UGA celebrated like they did in the UF game and other actions throughout the rest of the season is because they haven’t been there before. Therefore, I’ll take my idiot opinion and apply it to a team that has beat UF only twice in the last 15 years. Auburn has only beat them twice in the last two years when they were ranked number one or in the top 5 and beat them the last 3 times they’ve played.
By Rich McKay
December 12, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
Does anyone know where I am?
And people, stop blaming me for drafting Michael Vick. I DID NOT DRAFT MICHAEL VICK!!! Your beloved Dan Reeves, who had total control, drafted Michael Vick.
But I did draft other low-character, thugs from Virginia Tech like MeAngelo Hall. Whoo boy, I sure do love Frank Beamer’s hoodlums!
But seriously, does anyone know where I am? I’m missing. Please check the last known places I was in the last year. I would start up Arthur Blank’s butt, where I’ve happily been enabling his insane behavior as the owner of the Falcons instead of advising him and actually telling him “no” every once in awhile. That Arthur Blank, he sure does only like YES men!
By RAMBLE ON!
December 12, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
TONY, ONE LARGE CORRECTION TO YOUR STATEMENT “But for the next few weeks this school is going to be the poster-child of what’s wrong with college athletics because of this hire”
This isn’t college athletics you’re talking about. This is 100% SEC FOOTBALL. HE’S THIS YEARS NICK SABANS. THIS IS REPRESENTIVE OF SEC FOOTBALL, NOT COLLEGE ATHLETICS!!!
The whole league is this way (sorry Vanderbilt, guilty by association).
* THIS ONLY HAPPENS IN THE SEC, it will catch up though. Saban will go down, and so will Petrino. Only fools will play for Liars like these. The SEC has a bunch of idiots, but the fools that would play for these back stabbers will have trouble graduating high school. *
By Whistlebritches
December 12, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this
Bob, I appreciate your logical response. Let me clarify, I just sent another post as well that talks about this. I do not believe that Auburn, by any means, is a consistent top 5 program. I wish they were, but they’re not. I do think they’re getting there as UGA is. My point is, that UGA is not there yet and shouldn’t be stated as a team that’s above and beyond the likes of UT and Auburn. They are second level teams, but UGA has been in the same category as them over the years. So my point, UGA is not on the same level as UF and LSU until they are consistenlty in the top 5 and playing for NC’s.
It’s people like Nascar Fan, that give UGA fans a bad name due to their unrealistic expectations and/or thoughts about how much better they are than others. It is safe to assume though, that most UGA fans never went to the school so didn’t walk away with the same education.
By realitybites
December 12, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this
Doesn’t it make you wonder why a person would take a $2 million pay cut to go back to college football? The answer is thet Petrino was used to being the COACH and players doing what they are taught/told. If I came to a schoolroom full of kids that didn’t listen, acted like idiots and had egos the size of Texas, I’d either MAKE them do what they are told (can’t do that to pro players), kick the kids out of the classroom (can’t do that to pro players), call their parents (pro players don’t care) or find somewhere to hide the bodies (can’t do that…it’s a felony). If none of these approaches were available, after a few weeks you bet I’d leave skid marks on the wa out.
By Rich McKay
December 12, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this
Does anyone know where I am?
And people, stop blaming me for drafting Michael Vick. I DID NOT DRAFT MICHAEL VICK!!! Your beloved Dan Reeves, who had total control, drafted Michael Vick.
But I did draft other low-character, thugs from Virginia Tech like MeAngelo Hall. Whoo boy, I sure do love Frank Beamer’s hoodlums!
But seriously, does anyone know where I am? I’m missing. Please check the last known places I was in the last year. I would start up Arthur Blank’s butt, where I’ve happily been enabling his insane behavior as the owner of the Falcons instead of advising him and actually telling him “no” every once in awhile. That Arthur Blank, he sure does only like YES men!
By Tommy
December 12, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this
Don’t blame anyone for leaving Atlanta. It is a city of losers in pro sports.
By Ex-ATL Hog Fan
December 12, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
Tony, considering you left Arkansas out of your book about the SEC, are you sure you even know where Fayetteville is?
Make sure you don’t land in North Carolina, chief.
Oh, and as an Arkansas fan who used to live in Atlanta, a word to my Falcons brethren:
ESPN has unloaded on you all year, and now they’re white knighting for you… they don’t feel bad for you or think it’s wrong… it’s another story for all the national outlets. Don’t confuse headlines for sympathy.
And…
It’s “Woo Pig Sooie,” idiots… “Souey” is a junk Chinese food term.
By Gen Neyland
December 12, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this
REMEMBER PLEASE
Price Buck Cochran…His memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, 16DEC…Memorials for Buck can be sent to:
Trinity Lutheran Church 1200 Tenth Ave, East Seattle WA 98102
Buck’s church helped him along the way. Provided much assistance, both personal and monetarily. Got him to JAX…etc…Let’s show that our caring goes beyond words on the blogs…Thanks to all.
By Tony
December 12, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
What were we thinking?? What kind of poorprone, sougrape ridden comment is that, obviously the same thing you were at the beginning of last summer genius. Now no where in Mr. Petrinos contract does it say that I have to tolerate my all pro qb fighting & killing dogs & becoming public enemy #1. How many people were in the stands Monday night in fourth quarter, three? Our recruits are hanging in the balance, by a thread, thats why Petrino left, to save the day here, nothing less, nothing more. Get over it. Poor Jamal, Poor Chris. You’re franchise is the worst in the league, at least the Dolphins will recover, the Falcons probably never will.
By shane #1
December 12, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
gen nyland,i am sure you are glad this guy is back in sec football,he makes phat phil look totally respectable!arkansas,you still aren’t lsu,don’t look for miracles from this bird.anyone who saw the”coaching”pet did in atlanta could tell you he is no lombardi!petrino did the right thing by leaving when he did,his inability to coach was being exposed.rich,i don’t know where you are either,but the way you”built”the falcons,if mr blank is”connected”,you are encased in a bridge abutment somewhere on 285!
By EP
December 12, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
Two questions:
Hadn’t Petrino just signed a long term contract when Blanks hired him away fron Louisville? What goes around comes around Falcon fans. (I’ve been one since Tommy Nobis days!)
Second, does VT require its athletes to pass math? A 5 mil a year job is not a stepping stone to a 3 mil a year job! Get real d- angelo!
By NASCARfan
December 12, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
Whistleblower, you don’t know enough about me to cal me unrealistic. If you actually follow any blog I’ve blogged on, you’d see I’m very realistic and temper any expectation I usually have.
I also correctly predicted our 10-2 record this year. For comparison, Jeff Schultz predicted the Dawgs to go 11-1.
But if you believe that Georgia isn’t an elite team in the SEC, the yes, you are an idiot. In the SEC, we measure elite teams by the amount of titles they’ve won. You of all people as a WarTigle fan should know that the National Chumpionship Game is a bunch of BS and a beauty pageant. In the history of the SEC, only 2 teams have more titles than Georgia, and Florida didn’t win their first title until Spurrier showed up. That means that they had 100 years of futility. Georgia has won an SEC title in EVERY decade the SEC has been around (that 8 decades, now) accept for one decade, the 1990’s under Goof and Donnan.
In the last ten years, UGA has more wins than any other SEC team. We have the second most amount of SEC titles at 2, LSU has three. Don’t worry, we’ll get our third next year. Tennessee’s last SEC Title came 11 years ago after the conclusion of this season. Florida won their first title in the Mark Richt era last year, after we had won 2. As for our record against Florida, you seem to have caught Florida fans amnesia about what went on before 1990. So, Whistlebritches, if you want to play the short term memory game, Georgia v. Florida is knotted up at 2-2 over the last four games.
Also, unlike Tubby, Mark Richt has never lost more than two games in a row to any SEC Coach or team.
In the SEC right now, there are three elite teams. LSU, Georgia, and Florida. Then there is Auburn trying to poke on through. But unlike Georgia, LSU, and Florida, they don’t have enough ten win seasons or top-10 finishes (under Mark Richt, Georgia is ensured of our 5th top-10 finish in 7 years, and possibly our 3rd top-5 finish). Then on the third level there is Tennessee, Alabama, and Arkansas.
Once again, Whistlebritches, you’re so far off base, you’re on the moon. I’ve never been accused of being an unrealistic Georgia fan. And what I’m saying now is backed up by fact. You talk about top-5 finishes? Try having more than one in twenty years and come talk to us.
By tony
December 12, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
Reading most of the comments here, no wonder he left. What a fan base you are nothing but a bunch of poor prone, sourgrape sounding, Petrino bashing, watchin you’re team losin babies. What do you mean wheres Fayettville, if you can’t find it just ask Les Miles and LSU they’ll tell you where it is. Petrino found it EAT OUR DUST. I feel sorry for Jamal Anderson and Chris Houston, they are better than that franchise ever will be. LOSERS!!!!!!
By Rick in Louisville
December 12, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
We in Louisville are not surprised with Petrino’s actions. Arkansas did the same thing to yougood folks that the Falcons did to UofL. And I suspect in a few years someone will do to Arkansas. Petrino’s got “happy feet.”
By Bob
December 12, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
Whistlebritches,
I have no problem with your point and frankly agree with most of it. All fans are a bit myopic and SEC fans are without doubt the most myopic.
That being said, I don’t think you can elevate the Gators to some super level either. Yes, they won the NC last year and as an SEC fan I was glad….although I was biting my tongue. That NC counts for more than anything else, but the body of work counts as well. No question the Gators have had their way with UGA the past 18 years, but that is a snapshot. I could say the last four years have made the series even again. Or I could say even after all the Gator wins they trail the series by 10. Or whatever. In the past 7 years Florida has won one conference title and only been in the game once. Except for Richt’s first year and last year, Georgia has finished the season ranked higher and in two cases much higher. For consistency, only LSU has matched UGA SINCE Richt arrived 7 years ago. That is not opinion, but based on the results on the field. Frankly I don’t think there is much of a difference between LSU, Auburn, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia right now. Georgia has had lots of trouble with Florida. Tennessee has had lots of trouble with Florida. Auburn has owned Florida and Tennessee. Auburn and Georgia have pretty much split with each other. Georgia has walloped LSU the last two times they played. LSU has won 3 SEC titles, Georgia has won 2, Auburn and Florida have each won 1. Next year Auburn, Florida and Georgia return a ton of folks and will probably be the three favorites.
Anyway, good points and good discussion.
By Garty
December 12, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this
Great Bama slamming shirt…
Gotta check out www.notredone.com
they need more product but this shirt is pretty funny and heck Saben needs a kick in the pants…
By FLA DAWG
December 12, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this
Not that you’ll take the time to read this Tony but, GROW UP! Colleges, BCS, Sportswriters & Commentators can say and do whatever they want about whomever they want but you criticize a man for trying to play it smart - even sly to get a better job!?
This guy can help Ark win. If not, they’ll fire him or he’ll quit. That’s the way it works.
By Bob
December 12, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
NASCARfan,
“Also, unlike Tubby, Mark Richt has never lost more than two games in a row to any SEC Coach or team”.
What do you call 2001,2002 and 2003 to Florida? Not same coach but same team.
By Mike
December 12, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Arkansas got a coach who is a proven winner at the college level. They will not have to worry about him leaving because major programs will not hire him, because of his reputation.
I do not blame him for leaving. He was not aware of the Michael Vick situation when he accepted the job.
By TONY
December 12, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
No were not LSU, were Arkansas, we are now holding the Golden Boot, because we went into there house and took it from them, leaving about 600 hundred footprints on there turf. Were they #1. Yeah Auburn got us this year, but not last year, and most of the time we beat them. Ole Miss hasn’t beat us since Civil War reconstruction, there are teams in the sec that give us problems, thats to be expected, they are better than the Falcons, would probably beat you’re team in a scrimmage. However we’re in a Bowl game, usually are. Last year, this year and years to come. Oh yeah for you’re info Arkansas is in possesion of more National Championships in sports than any other school in the Nation let alone the sec. Thanks to our always #1 track and field teams. Combine there successes with the basketball and football and baseball success we have here and no other team in the Nation can compare, google it.
By TONY
December 12, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
No were not LSU, were Arkansas, we are now holding the Golden Boot, because we went into there house and took it from them, leaving about 600 hundred footprints on there turf. Were they #1. Yeah Auburn got us this year, but not last year, and most of the time we beat them. Ole Miss hasn’t beat us since Civil War reconstruction, there are teams in the sec that give us problems, thats to be expected, they are better than the Falcons, would probably beat you’re team in a scrimmage. However we’re in a Bowl game, usually are. Last year, this year and years to come. Oh yeah for you’re info Arkansas is in possesion of more National Championships in sports than any other school in the Nation let alone the sec. Thanks to our always #1 track and field teams. Combine there successes with the basketball and football and baseball success we have here and no other team in the Nation can compare, google it.
By TONY
December 12, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
No were not LSU, were Arkansas, we are now holding the Golden Boot, because we went into there house and took it from them, leaving about 600 hundred footprints on there turf. Were they #1. Yeah Auburn got us this year, but not last year, and most of the time we beat them. Ole Miss hasn’t beat us since Civil War reconstruction, there are teams in the sec that give us problems, thats to be expected, they are better than the Falcons, would probably beat you’re team in a scrimmage. However we’re in a Bowl game, usually are. Last year, this year and years to come. Oh yeah for you’re info Arkansas is in possesion of more National Championships in sports than any other school in the Nation let alone the sec. Thanks to our always #1 track and field teams. Combine there successes with the basketball and football and baseball success we have here and no other team in the Nation can compare, google it.
By Scott
December 12, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
Arkansas fans- After the way your school treated coach Nutt, Arkansas and Bobby Petrino deserve each other. Authur is a great owner and the Falcons are better off today!
By tony
December 12, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
If Arkansas isn’t elite, I wonder what an elite runningback is, they’ve got two right now thats better than anything the Falcons or the nfl can boast, you’ll see in a year they’ll both go in the first round. They’re center was voted the best in the Nation (Remmington winner) they beat LSU in LSU, and had an off year. Granted we’re not charter members of the sec, however we sure make it a habit out of beating the competition. In his tenure Houston Nutt won more games than any other sec coach in that time span, so Richt, Miles, Spurrier (whose team gave up 524 yards on the ground to the HOGS)can call themselves elite, I agree with that, so can Arkansas. Watch what we do in the sec in hoops this year too. We’ll win another sec west title and possible overall title and add it to our ever growing trophy case.. We’ll do this while Atlanta sportswriters continue to fume. Patrino may bolt, he may not. Its a business. He’s no different than Nick Saban and a handfull of others. Its all about winning and he give us a good shot at it.
By Bob
December 12, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this
Arkansas TONY,
What are you smoking dude? Arkansas has 41 national titles which is truly remarkable. But more than any other school in the country? UCLA has 100, Stanford has more than 90, USC has 84 and Oklahoma State…Not OU….has 48. Do you just make up stuff expecting no one to check? Then again the discussion is football and win a conference championship and we can talk.
By shane #1
December 12, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
bob,i am sure nascar will come back at you on this,but what he said was that richt had not lost over two games to the same team.you proved his point!tony,if the hog fans had backed nutt instead of some snot-nosed kid you might have had another nc to brag about.you had,IMO,the best college player in the country in mcfadden,but you had a spoiled FRESHMAN qb that thought he should get playing time.instead of backing the coach who wanted to hand the ball to mcfadden,{duh!},forty times a game you backed the kid!you people blew up your own program!stafford may not be the best college qb,but he won’t force the ball into triple coverage when he can hand the ball off!just ask messers moreno,brown,and lumpkin.
By Erk
December 12, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
I don’t think Petrino will do much if any better than Houston Nutt.
By GWH
December 12, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
Well said Tony. Welcome to the SEC, Bobby!!
By tony
December 12, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
Scott, obviously you’re not a case study in reading. Arkansas offered Coach Nutt an extention and a raise, when he declined because the fan base was split here, he did so in an attempt to re-unite them, he made the move. In doing so the University removed his “golden handcuffs” paid him and sent him on his way, heck Arkansas even offered to share the coaching staff to help them recruit, if not for local media that would’ve happened, so don’t sit there and point fingers through the fog when you don’t know what you’re talking about. Both Nutt & Arkansas showed alot of class and Coach Petrino is welcomed here, with open arms, he’s going to love Razorback Nation. You guys, just by these posts, I can tell are in bad, sad shape.
By Gen Neyland
December 12, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this
NASCARfan
“UT’s last SEC title came eleven years ago after the conclussion of this season”…Please tell me you’re not studying to be an accountant…Political Science maybe…Have a good break…Daytona’s just around the 3rd corner.
By tony
December 12, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
Ok Bob, you got me on that one, I’ll set a precedent here for Falcons fans and Atlanta sportswriters to follow, I was wrong, it was a knee jerk reaction to the false claims I’ve been reading here, thank you for the complement on our 40 something titles. That still doesn’t change the fact that Razorback Nation has more class in its pinky than the Falcons ever will. Why blast Petrino, the man took a pay cut to do what he loves and thats coach kids. Not spoiled millionaires. Let me put it this way, we’ve won more titles than anyone else in the heartland.. I stand corrected.. My bad. Its easy to admit you’re wrong when you support a team and organization like the Razorbacks. One thing I’m not wrong on though is this, in the last two years we have victories over, South Carolina, Auburn, Alabama, LSU, Tennessee. We own Mississippi. We played Florida in thier Championsip year alot closer than Ohio State did. In the last two years we’ve averaged over 200 yards on the ground against that vaulted LSU Defense. I’m proud to be a HOGFAN, and think the HOGCALL is the coolest thing in college football, it sure beats the snot out of the tomohawk chop. You guys must really hate the Padres. While you handle them perty good in the regular season, the post season is a whole different story. Where did Joe Johnson come from? Sports wise he’s the only decent thing that city can lay claim too.
By Whistlebritches
December 12, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this
Bob, great points. I belive you are right on with your synopsis about those teams not being too far apart. The fact is, the SEC is just that good and all those teams are really good.
Nascar Fan, Who has won the most SEC games in the last 5 years?
UGA does win 10 games a year, they’re just not winning more than that. When they do that consistently, that’s a top tier team. Not saying they have to do it every year.
About amnesia, Auburn won 4 SEC Championships in the 80’s. Who cares what they did in the 80’s. I’m talking about a top tier team consistently. When UGA plays for a national title consistently, we’ll go there.
Their amount of 10 win seasons are impressive considering how hard it is to win 10. However, I’d question some of their opponents, etc. as I could Auburn and other teams. We’re playing WV next year while Slaton and White are seniors. We’ll see how Auburn fares. I’m not a Georgia basher, just a UGA realist.
By tony
December 12, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
Thank you GWH, he should do well here, I can’t wait to see his recruiting prowess, last night the local media had recruits on the phone and they were all jacked. It should be sweet.
By Tony
December 12, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
I could’ve swore UT won a title under Tee Martin in 98, its been so long, I’ve slept alot since then. But thats what I’m thinkin.
By georgiagirl
December 12, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this
whistlebritches, Look if up (Google) Mark Richt, seventh in the nation with the most wins, right up there with Meyers and Carroll.
I live 30 miles from Auburn and the fans around where praying (TUBERVILLE) he would leave, they want him gone. He’s not that loved by the fans around here and it is real close to the campus. And Go Dawgs sic-em, is a good battle cry, now tell me which is it War Eagle or Auburn Tigers.
GO DAWGS SIC-EM Oh yea all the Auburn fans that call themselves my friend, sure did disappear in the last few weeks.
They talk alot of mess before the game and now they are all missing in action, oh where did you go. Because I never tell anyone we are going to beat the hell of your team, I always tell them we will see when the clock runs out. So as a part-time bartender I listen to alot of sh!! all year and then everybody disappears after the games we win. GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BLACK OUT
By Tony
December 12, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this
Some of these posts do fire me up, just a little. Not alot though, Tony Barnhart, just doesn’t seem to be the sharpest knife in the drawer. I won’t pick on him to bad though, we have our share of idiots with a pen in Arkansas. One thing that just keeps coming to mind here, for all the blasting that the UA is taking right now, the city of Atlanta sure seems to tap Arkansas talent come draft day, in all sports. OH well, I’m outa here and back to the homebound message boards. Once again Bob, let me leave you with a good impression, thanks for pointing out the National Championship thing, like I said a knee jerk reaction on my part to all the fingerpointing on this thread. If its any consulation to you all, I hate the Falcons but have alot of respect for the Bulldogs, Mark Richt teams are brutal and a case could be made that it should be them and not LSU playing Ohio State. But the Bulldogs are in the SEC, the strongest conference in the Nation in every sport. I can’t wait unti the Hogs line up against them and blast them in the mouth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By georgiagirl
December 12, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this
whistlebritches, Look if up (Google) Mark Richt, seventh in the nation with the most wins, right up there with Meyers and Carroll.
I live 30 miles from Auburn and the fans around where praying (TUBERVILLE) he would leave, they want him gone. He’s not that loved by the fans around here and it is real close to the campus. And Go Dawgs sic-em, is a good battle cry, now tell me which is it War Eagle or Auburn Tigers.
GO DAWGS SIC-EM Oh yea all the Auburn fans that call themselves my friend, sure did disappear in the last few weeks.
They talk alot of mess before the game and now they are all missing in action, oh where did you go. Because I never tell anyone we are going to beat the hell of your team, I always tell them we will see when the clock runs out. So as a part-time bartender I listen to alot of sh!! all year and then everybody disappears after the games we win. GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BLACK OUT
By ARdawg
December 12, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this
Tony
For gawdsakes man, reading that column one might surmise the University of Arkansas is a pervert in an overcoat and Bobby Patrino a 16 year old Greek boy and they were caught in a seedy motel room.
Patrino is a good proven coach and an X’s and O’s man the Razorbacks have been needing for years. Patrino wasn’t to blame for the backhanded antics of Auburns Laughter. He was just a coach looking at a job offer that didn’t happen to be completely open at the time.
Patrino while taking his dream job in Atlanta landed right into the hotbed of Vickdoggate. Reading you one might think he was also a financial backer of Bad Newz Kennels.
He doesn’t have that much baggage. Theres not a successful coach out there without some baggage and most with more than Bobby P.
This was not only a coop for the Razorbacks but a homerun for the Athletic Director Jeff Long. I don’t believe the university is a poster child for whats wrong and this is no PR nightmare.
You surprise me sometimes Tony with your comments but this one stinks to high heaven. You sound like a disgruntled Falcons fan looking to still shine the light away from the real problem which is the Falcon organization itself. I fail to see the problem with the Razorbacks making such a good hire, especially after their recent rejections.
By the old ballcoach
December 12, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this
I cannot believe I have wasted so much time on a blog about a coach.When it’s not about Me of course.I just want to say a couple of things.You Razorbacks had better watch out!I am posting on my lap top from Georgia.I am down here recruiting a big old running back just for You Hogs.We are going to run up about 60 on you the next time we meet.I have a memory like an Elephant and I hold grudges forever.Just ask Fulmer or Richt if You don’t believe Me.Why do You think I left McFadden off My ballot?
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
tony, you said that McFadden and Jones will be #1 draft picks a year from now? Do you think that McFadden will stay after this season? I doubt it. He will be #1 or #2 pick this spring. He won’t come back for Heisman because he got it ripped from him last year and by a stat padder this year. Millions await him. Jones might be a different story. He might come back to get the spotlight all to himself and a shot at the Heisman. He is that good too. Just overshadowed by the best back in the country. But then again Jones has to see that Petrino will be throwing the ball there not running it. Jones could be a 1st rounder a year from now easily.
By tony
December 12, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this
In response to ERK, Petrino doesn’t have to do much better than Houston, just a little. Nutt was all class, a great motivator. Now Bobby can get us over that hurdle that so often tripped Houston up. FALCON FANS………..ALL THE BEST.
By ryc30078
December 12, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this
The Hog Fans are getting what they deserve. They run off a very good coach; a fellow alumnist no less. Now they hire this mercinary who would have been at LSU if Les Miles had taken the Michigan job lol. I don’t get these SEC schools like Ole Miss, Arkasnas etc.. As long as schools like LSU, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, TENNESSE, AUBURN,ALABAMA,are in this conference, these second rate Sec schools like OLE MISS,ARKANSAS, VANDERBILT, KENTUCKY WILL NEVER EVER WIN A SEC CHAMPIONSHIP!! These universities need to stop trying to bankrupt themselves thinking they will any kind of championship in football.
By chris
December 12, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
Mark Richt is one of the classiest men I have ever seen. Certainly one of the best coaches in college football. However he is the 3rd or fourth best coach in the SEC. He hasnt won a championship. Coaches are measured on championships. He will win one and once he does, he might be right up there with Meyer and Spurrier. But when you look at coaches, you have to look at who can produce champions. Spurrier has done a wonderful job with mediocre talent at South Carolina. Meyer is a recruiting and coaching phenomenon. Saban has a proven track record of winning but he is also one of the best recruiters in the nation. Just look at what he has done in his first year at UA. Richt has had all the talent needed to win, and he does during the regular season, but just not to put his team in the big one. Just one more year.. could be 2008..
By ArkansasHog
December 12, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
Nascarfan, while not pleased with how Petrino’s Atlanta exit came down, he wouldn’t be doing this without reason. The Falcons’ season IS over and Petrino was sold a bill of goods. He is man enough to say “I don’t belong here” and leave. What’s the crime in that. As for knowing who we are..We are Arkansas. Successful in toughest league in the land. Have been successful for many decades. Have done quite well against Georgia. We will continue to do well and compete for national championships in all sports, including football. Sorry to burst your bubble. Facts and research may help you in the future.
By Whistlebritches
December 12, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
Georgia Girl, I don’t care how close you live to Auburn. Most Auburn grads graduate and leave and move on to further their lives doing something productive. Auburn has more Fortune 500 CEO’s than any other school (look it up as y’all consider all these “facts” y’all are writing about). The alumni wouldn’t cry about Tubs leaving, but they’re smart enough to know what they have, which is a very successful coach who has built a program as Richt has done. We don’t get caught up in our mascot, although we try to explain to not so educated people that War Eagle is the battle cry and Tiger is the mascot. I don’t know who talked a lot of mess before the game. You people are killing me, I’m not slamming UGA, simply saying it’s still not in the top 5 programs in the country over the long haul. If UGA fans were as smart as Richt, no one would dislike you so much. Where was Tubberville on your most wins list? I bet pretty high up there, but he’s only been able to go undefeated one year. When he does that consistently, Auburn and Tubberville will then be an elite program. By the way, make sure none of your players sell their Sugar Bowl rings on ebay this year. Elite programs are: USC, Texas, Ohio State (although they’re in the big 10), Florida, Michigan, Miami and Florida State used to be, LSU, and yes even Alabama would still be considered elite if you looked at the big picture. A loss to South Carolina and a mauling from Tennesssee hardly makes you elite.
By Bob
December 12, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this
shane#1,
Excuse me but how did I prove his point. NASCARfan said that Mark Richt had not lost to the same coach OR school for more than two consecutive years. I did not go to Georgia Tech but I think my basic math is still ok. 2001,2002 and 2003 are three consecutive seasons or am I missing something here? As someone else pointed out, he claimed UT had not won a title in 11 years. As General Neyland pointed out, that is simply incorrect.
I am as big a Dawg fan as anyone, but why some people believe they need to embelish what is already a great record is beyond me.
BTW Whistlebritches….I think that 10 win or more seasons in 2002,2003,2004,2005 and 2006 qualifies as more than once in a while. Five of his last 6 years coaching Georgia. When you consider our “bad” year in 2006 we still won 9, I think there is some pretty consistent performances there since Richt arrived.
Tony, I do not hate Arkansas. The Falcons have no reason to play holier than thou. They knew what they were getting and it did not bother them in the least that he broke his word to Louisville. But at least ole Nick Saban had the decency to finish out his season.
One point I certainly agree with you on is this national news bashing of the colleges for doing it. They were far quieter when the Dolphins went after Saban or the Redskins went after Spurrier or the Browns went after Butch Davis. The NFL is hardly in a position to throw stones.
By Yellowjacket33
December 12, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
My only question is, how can this man go to a recruits home and tell to them to their face that he will be around to coach them their entire college career? Also how can a recruits parents trust this PIECE OF S#*T to take care of their kids honestly?
By shane #1
December 12, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
hold me back fellas,i think i am in love with georgiagirl.not only does she know a slant from a curl,but she is a bartender too!be still my heart!i have been in a few{ahem}bars in my time and there is one thing they have in common,they hire pretty girls to be bartenders.all you regulars on this site can just shut up!an old man can dream,can’t he?
By mcdawg
December 12, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
good riddance-in the end this will be for the best as far as the Falcons are concerned-time to start over and put this season behind us-weshould have another top draft pick-QB or top O-Line—the kid from Louisville looks pretty good
By shane #1
December 12, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
bob,leave me alone,i am still thinking about georgiagirl,to hell with nascar!
By Joe D.
December 12, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
Didn’t seem to hurt Lou Holtz, who quit the Jets after a 3-10 start, to go to Arkansas 30 years ago.
He continued to jump around from job to job and even left a wake of NCAA violations at each location, but he was still in demand.
Don’t blame Petrino…Blame Arkansas (and the all the ADs and school presidents across the country who continue to hire these guys).
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
He is man enough to say “I don’t belong here” and leave.
LMAO. No he didn’t. He left in the middle of the night after phoning in his “I quit” in to Blank. Petrino wasn’t going to lose his job this year, nor next year nor the year after that with the Falcons. He was going to be given some time to deal with the Vick mess. He lost the team when he cut that lineman a few months back.
By reservoirDawg(formall noyellowinthisblood
December 12, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this
zoo I think he was talking about Saban.
By mcdawg
December 12, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this
wonder what Mitch Mustain is thinking right now?
By Blue Fox
December 12, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this
The Atlanta connection in this event is Arkansas Chancellor John White, who was a long-time faculty member and Dean of Engineering at Georgia Tech before accepting the head job in Fayetteville. John would have had to approve the approach and hiring of Petrino, and being the very bright and ethical guy he is, I’m surprised he gave the permission and the way the university low-balled the Falcons/Arthur Blank.
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
rezDawg, who was talking about $aban? ArkHog? I is there a difference between $aban and Petrino.
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this
He is man enough to say “I don’t belong here” and leave.
LMAO. No he didn’t. He left in the middle of the night after phoning in his “I quit” in to Blank. Petrino wasn’t going to lose his job this year, nor next year nor the year after that with the Falcons. He was going to be given some time to deal with the Vick mess. He lost the team when he cut that lineman a few months back.
By Charles C. Cox
December 12, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
Frank Broyles leaves in disgrace. He fired Lou Holtz who win on to great success at Minnesota and N.D.; ran of Houston Nutt who beat the likely BCS champion, the relied on “hearsay” that Blanks had given permission to talk to Petrino. Frank, Bobby Dodd is looking down on you and is very disappointed!
By Tebow went 9-3
December 12, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Crazy weird information I just got said Moreno may loose eligibility for the sUGAr Bowl because of academics. Same source that told me about Paul Oliver two weeks before it broke.
Please tell me this is just BS!!!
By alee
December 12, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
No Vick, so he (Petrino) dediced to Quit!!!!
By Hog 06
December 12, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
I think Tony is the real idiot here. Name one coach in college athletics that doesn’t have HIS own best interests at heart! This “PR nightmare” won’t last long for Arkansas when Les Miles bolts for Michigan after saying he would coach LSU next season! And oh by the way Tony, Darren McFadden and Felix Jones were leaving for the NFL even before H. Nutt resigned. CLEARLY YOU HAVE NO CLUE!
By ArkansasHog
December 12, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
Mr. Cox, Bobby is fine with Frank. Having been in school at F’ville during the Holtz years, we had grown tired of his scene. It was time for him to move on, and his relationship with Jesse Helms was the “straw.” And this would repeat itself at Minn, ND and South Carolina. Nutt, whom I support, unfortunately paved his own way out of town. We lost. Don’t disrespect Frank. You should be ashamed. Or at least know your facts.
By reservoirDawg(formall noyellowinthisblood
December 12, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
zoo there is one diffence. Saban made made NFL money for two seasons.
By George
December 12, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
Bobby Quitrino
What a joke but you have to give the guy credit.
He’s ugly, stupid, short and has horrible communication skills, Yet he has programs beating down his door to give him millions of dollars. Only in America?!
By ArkansasHog
December 12, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Kalamazoo. Petrino had been talking with Blank for weeks about the Atlanta situation and his dissapointment there. Blank was not surprised. Petrino is not calling Blank a “liar”, like so many people are saying of him today. I think all involved are dissapointed in the Atlanta situation. And shouldn’t we be applauding a coach who makes decisions to cut players. Also, Petrino comes to Arkansas for fewer dollars. Why would you give up $2mm a year unless you were truly unhappy. I know this bruises a lot of egos in Georgia, but that’s life. Go Hogs Go!
By ArkansasHog
December 12, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
And the proof is in the pudding. Read the latest headline: “Recruits Rejoice in UA Hire”
By steve
December 12, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
You can’t blame Blank for MV.He is not a coach but he is putting forth an effort to build a team in Atlanta We thought we had a QB to build on but we were wrong. Sit tight I think Blank will hire the right people to make us a winner.
By shane #1
December 12, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
i am tired of this subject,i have been suffering with the falcons since 64 and they never get better.the old term we used was”snakebit”.i hope the rumor about moreno is untrue,but lump is back,he and brown should be enough to beat the warriors.tech fans,i am glad you got johnson,i think he is an honorable man.thank god the state of ga has richt and johnson to represent us!georgiagirl,may your tip jar always be full!see you dawgs in big easy!
By Kemosabe
December 12, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
You Suthun folk crack me up. How does a team win “3 1/2” conference championships? Is a half win when you finish tied for first in your division but don’t get to play in the title game meaning you really didn’t win anything? Winning a conference championship is kind of like being kind of pregnant. She either is or isn’t.
By jerome
December 12, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
What do you people expect from a school that has an HOG for a mascot? Pigs get fat and HOGS get slaughtered.
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 12, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
ArkansasHog, I’m a Detroit Lions fan. Hung over from the Barry Sanders days. I am a bigger fan of college football but still a fan of the NFL. I understand disappointment when it comes to a pro franchise. Just not as much as Falcon fans I guess. I can bet Blank gave Petrino a vote of confidence during those talks and promised to do all that he could ot rectify the situation. Blank wouldn’t be the business man he is w/o doing that at the minimum. But we weren’t there so I guess we don’t know. Just speculation. Where do you thing Jones will go in the draft? 1st rounder? early 2nd?
The politics of the sport is also important. I think when he cut that guy (which if I recall was well liked by his team mates) it set them down a different road as a “team”. Of course the whole Vick thing is one of a kind thing that nobody knows how to handle. No matter who the coach is or was.
By GT
December 12, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
The Falcons must have known the head coach was slipping away, why put that kind of pressure on him for an answer, of if he was staying or not. The coach obviously was not happy and communicated that to the organization. Guys in 2 thousand dollar suits seem to have a way of talking and not listening. “I thought the problem was taken care of”, mainly because Blank is use to saying something is taken care of and it is, not because he is right but because he is rich. Some of the hands on owners of the past have at least had a sniff of football on the field, not this dude. Blank asked the question as a control mechanism, like a rejected husband who knows his wife is two timing him. He knows the answer when he asked the question he is just hoping the guilt makes the person stay when the heart is not there. The real truth is the Falcons are a lot of wasted motion. As much as the press loves the access and wants the team to be run like a democratic organization with openness to the press it seems to me the teams with a little edge are more often the winners. A coach should always tell the truth is great when a press respects the position the question is putting the coach into. Blank coward as he is laid the blame of his question on a television appearance, a press conference of such, he was having the night of the game. Blank didn’t care about the press he cared about control. He could have easily not asked and let the press do its job without him. He could have stayed off the camera like most smart owners in the NFL do. The Pittsburg owners are always polite as is New England when cornered by the press but they aren’t begging to be seen by them either. Most of them are seen as a dark figure in the owner’s box from a great distance. Lets stop playing stupid, this was a meddling owner that smothered his coach after giving him assurances this was not going to be like this when the coach was hired. Blanks had a repretation of this kind of personality and had to assure any interviewee the rep is unfounded or hire a weak coach. His lie was not as public because Petrino doesn’t know how to or have the desire to control the press like Blank. I am no Petrino fan and after Gailey and this guy am a little sick of this John Wayne silent wanta be, but we got rid of that problem, we still have the other.
By Glenn
December 12, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
Tony, good luck getting an audience. With their announcement of the hire when they knew no Atlanta reporters could be there, Arkansas has been running interference from the get go.
I have an idea. Why don’t you tell Bobby that you are from Auburn or LSU and are looking for a head football coach…That may be the only way you can see him.
By DunwoodyMan
December 12, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Braveswin… You Are Right…
When the train leaves PLEASE make SURE DON WADDELL is on board too
The Thrashers are NOT FAR BEHIND !!!!
By jim
December 12, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
Like all new kids on the block he will take a few lickings until he proves himself. It seems as more and more colleges are going to the three and out rule so if he don’t pan out what have you lost? He should bring a ballanced attack so we should sit back and watch. We don’t sign his paycheck so what we think really don’t mean a hill of beans.
By ARCHIECOOLEY
December 12, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this
HOW ABOUT SOME FRENCH CRIES WITH THAT WAAAAHHH-BURGER? SEEMS THE ONLY PEOPLE P** ABOUT PETRINO’S HIRING ARE THE ONES WHO LOST HIM. DON’T HATE THE PLAYER, JUST CALL THE HOGS, BABY! “KR” YOU DON’T KNOW JACK ABOUT ARKANSAS OR IT’S ATHLETIC DEPT. ALL YOU KNOW IS WHAT YOU READ IN THOSE ‘BAMA RAGS AND WHAT THIS KNOT-HEAD WRITES. “NASCARFan” YOUR NAME SAYS IT ALL. STICK TO CHASING CARS LIKE THE DOG YOU ARE.
By ARdawg
December 12, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
GT
Well I’ll be damned. I agree with a Techie verbatim on your last post.
Who is asking these questions as if they expect honor? Blank? Barnhart? There is no honor in professional football and not much in college for that matter. Patrino took a pay cut (and a severe one) to get away from the Falcons
By MrWrestling#2
December 12, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
Lets be honest. The situation here is enough to make any coach leave. The players rally around a convicted felon. The owner doesn’t know to stay of the side-lines and won’t rule out the possibility that the felon might return to the team. What coach in his right mind would want this place?
That said, Petrino seemed to make bad decisions even with the lousy hand he was dealt. Remember the fiasco of starting Leftowitz after Harrington had given us two straight wins?
In my mind this is a “win-win” for everyone. Arkansas gets a coach that is a proven college winner and the Falcons get a chance to start over—again.
By Blitz94
December 12, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t hire Bobby Petrino to coach a midget football team. I have never seen anyone with character, with less honesty, with less commitment in my life. The silly thing is that he was hired at Arkansas. How can you let a man of like this be the face of your university? How, if you have a son that is being recruited by Arkansas, can you allow this liar into your house to talk to you about what he can do for your child? I am pleading with anyone that as aspirations of going to play for the Razorbacks, do not be fooled by this charlatan.
By ArkansasHog
December 12, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
Kemosabe - a half championship is what you see in the Big 10 most years because you don’t play a round robin against each other. Perhaps Illinois shouldn’t go to the Rose Bowl because they didn’t really earn it. Oops, almost forgot, their coach is one of us “Suthun folk.” I guess you crack me up too.
By ArkansasHog
December 12, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this
Kalamazoo, it’s quittin time so I’m going home. Let me say before I leave, I agree with you, many things were shared between Petrino and Blank. And they are the only ones that know the whole truth. But I don’t think many folks in the Falcon org are surprised by his move. Petrino had reasons for cutting players. Unfortunately, it busted up part of the club and upset some of the prime offenders. But that club needs busting up. See Monday night.
Per Felix Jones, I think 2nd round. Great talent but a little light for NFL. I hope Petrino talks him into staying around. I think he could move to the first round in 2009.
Sorry about your Lions on Sunday. I’m a Cowboy fan. Now this blog can hate me for two reasons.
By KrisG
December 12, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
Bobby Petrino didn’t just butt heads with DeAngelo Hall. He butted heads with ever professional player on that team, he was essentially a tyrant. Haven’t you heard yet? Take DeAngelo with a grain of salt, but when Alge spoke up, that’s when I listened.
As far as their support for Michael Vick, I’m glad. You people need to stop thinking of football as something happening three plus hours a week, these are real people real teammates, and they care about each other. If my friend was watching me the day he was sentenced to prison, I would do something to let him know he was not forgotten. I don’t care how wrong he was. Like Coach Reeves said when he reached out to Vick, when they’ve made mistakes is when your friends need you the most.
By OpininonsAreLike
December 12, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
Name one good decision that Blank has made concerning the Falcons. Firing Reeves wrong, hiring Vick wrong, hiring Petrino wrong. I’m a nice guy myself but you wouldn’t want to running this franchise, well maybe you would, I’d lower prices and offer free beer.
By Hhelp
December 12, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
Dan Reeves, where are you? We need your help! As for Petrino…my mother always told me quitters never succeed in life,I guess this applies to you b/c you will never succeed in the SEC. On behave of the Atlanta Falcons, the University of Georgia Bulldogs will devour the University of Arkansas next year…mark it down loser! Petrino…you are a COWARD! You just lost the opportunity to ever coach in the NFL again…LOSER!
By Glenn
December 12, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this
KrisG, I take exception to your comments about the teammates supporting Michael Vick.
While Michael was being paid millions, and he was supposed to be leading the team by example, rather than putting his time in the film room and working on his mechanics in the off season, he was working the dogs for sport.
Several of his teammates may have even had incentives tied to team performance yet their “leader” could care less about his teammates or the families they were trying to financially support.
Michael Vick was a selfish man who threw his teammates under the bus, and yet, no one seems to have addressed that issue with these guys.
Vick also spit in the face of his owner, the league, and all of the fans who spent their hard earned money to purchase season tickets.
This isn’t about race or the right to fight dogs. It is about doing something that you know is illegal and can jeopardize your family and teammates and their family. Michael knew that and didn’t care.
These players who showed their support to Michael need to wake up. He wasn’t their friend. If he was, he would have never done anything that would have jeopardized his friends’ livelihood.
By Glenn
December 12, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this
While I am on a soapbox…What if this whole Michael Vick issue hadn’t arisen, but he would have been injured in preseason again and been lost for the year? What would be his excuse?
By Bill
December 12, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this
How can you blame Petrino for bailing out from this zoo? Monday night was an absolute disgrace to the franchise and the city of Atlanta, with the “gangstas” and thugs on the Falcons in full blossom with their “Free Mike Vick” (the head “gangsta”) paraphanelia on national TV’s full display. Yes, a new coach is needed, a strict disciplinarian with full authority to blow up this wretched team, get rid of all the troublemakers (starting with Hall, White and Crumpler) and start all over again. The inmates are running the asylum.
By Todd
December 12, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this
Greater Atlanta metro area:
It’s official, the Ole Coon Dawg, Tony Barnhart writes after thinking about what influential people he knows will think when it goes to print.
Why in the hell does Petrino not have the right to get out of Atlanta when someone else offers. I saw enough of him at Louisville to know that Hog fans are estatic.
Vick and his boyzzzz getting over on dogs of all things, punk a——-s Falcon players talking smack about the coach b/c all thier money aint going nowhere and they can say what they want.
Think of the Colts and thier class, then think about what the Falcons have.
On another subject Atlanta and all you dawg fans in the big city, Tony B. is a closet Gator. Dude picked UF this past yr. against Auburn, LSU, and Ga, now he’s talking UF as Nat. Champs automatic next yr! He’s a closet Gator working for the hometown AJC down the road from Athens. I’ve always liked Tony, but this yr. something has happened to the man.
By physicsDawg
December 12, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this
braveswin, (very second post) This franchise is the biggest joke in the history of (so called) professional sport. Sir, the Falcons have been lovable loosers for DECADES. They stopped being so lovable in the Glanville “Neon Deon” era, and certainly culminated with the #7-who-shall-not-be-named. Them being one of the biggest jokes in NFL history has little to do with the current ownership. “Rats jumping a sinking ship.” is fine when everyone in the analogy is a rat.
The problem is, in the current situation, the owner, other coaches, and the players are all Sailors, trying to save a ship in trouble. Bobby Petrino is the only RAT jumping ship!
I grew up in metro Atlanta, and so have been a College Football fan all my life. I can’t believe a rat like Petrino is going to soil the reputation of the SEC.
By BJohnDawg
December 12, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this
I don’t think that that the reason Petrino left was “to get back to college football”. He let the real reason slip out in his press conference in Arkansas to introduce him as the new head coach.
At the conference he mentioned it would be good to be in Arkansas, were the Razorbacks are the main event.
Clearly,in Georgia even Atlanta, the Falcons while important are not the main event. You have UGA,even ugh Ga. Tech, as well as the Braves. Baby Bobby was used to Louisville where the Cardinals are the only game in town.In Arkansas, the Razorbacks are the ONLY game in the State.It seems important to Baby Bobby to be #1.Not just in wins, but in media attention and the focus has to be on him.Hence the love affair with new jobs, and new places. Maybe His wife should be worried.He seems to have to always look for green grass over the next hill.
Clearly with Bobby its all about the EGO.EGO EGO. There is no commitment on his part. No honor.No Atlanta Press conference.Clearly he went to the Nick Sabin school of Commitment and Charm. But at least Nick finished two seasons.He gave it a real shot.
If I were a recruit or parent of a recruit would I want my son playing for a coach like Bobby P? No way. The kid would go to Arkansas, and find out the day after he signed his letter of intent that Bobby left to coach at Michigan.
Both Atlanta and the Falcons are better off without Bobby”No commitment to difficult to break” Petrino.
By lee smith
December 12, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this
Isn’t is interesting how differently the sports media, esp ESPN and sports-talk radio(and people like Barnhart), covered the Vick and Patrino stories. When Vick lied about bankrolling and operating a criminal enterprise over a period of years, people like Barnhart assured us that he wasn’t a bad guy, he had just “made a mistake.” When Vick lied to his employers and the media and everyone in this town about his fondness for torturing dogs, people like Barnhart and Espn assured us that he was just a confused kid who “made a mistake.” When Vick smoked dope while out on bond, and then lied about it, again people like Barnhart rushed to explain that he was just depressed and had “made a mistake.” But when Patrino lied about his intentions to stay with the Falcons, well, that was an entirely different matter. Now here is a person of no integrity, a disgusting liar and a degenerate lowlife on a par with Stalin (for all you Mike Vick supporters, he was the former dictator of the USSR). It is almost like the media, which has been so carefully in everything they have had to say about Vick, has now found someone they can pour scorn on with impunity. Vick’s supporters, like Barnhart, have had a lot to say about forgiveness-forgiveness for Vick that is-not for Bobby Patrino or any other person with white skin. Maybe, just maybe, Patrino simply made a mistake.
By G. Thompson
December 12, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this
Let’s do a quick review. Arthur Blank fired Dan Reeves, who was the only chance Vick had to develop into a successful man and quarterback, and maybe the only classy person ever to lead the Falcons. He hired Jim Mora, an immature jerk who only looks good in comparison to Bobby Petrino. He cozied up to Vick, showering him with money, pushing him around in the wheelchair and making him the “face” of the franchise. Then he hired Petrino. What is the common denominator here? Could it be Arthur Blank? I have always maintained that Blank is simply Rankin Smith in a more expensive suit. This train wreck starts at the top.
By Matt
December 12, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this
Let me preface this by stating that I am not a fan of either the Falcons, Hogs, or Alabama. It seems that this is just another media member making a mountain out of a molehill. First of all, this was purely a buisness decision that will probably be better for the Falcons. I think that Petrino knew that the situation in Atlanta was one that he could not fix by next year and decided to go where he had more control of the outcome. If the owner can fire you without giving you enough time or tools to accomplish your desired result then you are in a no win situation and need to leave. (Good buisness) Lets face it, the NFL is a buisness. This just gives the Falcons a chance to do it right this year instead of next. Now on Saban, I think that people should do their own research instead of listening to media morons. I researched the timeline of Saban to Alabama and here is what I found..Alabama fired Shula. Alabama asked Spurrier, he said no. Alabama asked Saban(his agent), he said no. Saban tells Miami media he will not coach Alabama. Alabama ask Rich Rod, he says yes. Rich goes back, talks to WV, gets raise, tells Alabama no. NFL season over(for Dolphins), Alabama ask Saban, Saban talks to Miami owner, owner says do what is best for you, Saban goes to Alabama. ESPN and Miami media have egg on face and start the same thing they are starting here. It seems that the only person who lied was Rich. Petrino might have lied or maybe he felt like he would stay and had a change of heart when he saw the writing on the wall. I think this is best for Atlanta and gives them a chance to do it right this time. peace.
By large orange
December 12, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Hey NASCAR. You are a redneck by definiton. One fact for you 35-14. How many NT’s since ‘80 do the dogs have?
By large orange
December 12, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Hey NASCAR. You are a redneck by definiton. One fact for you 35-14. How many NT’s since ‘80 do the dogs have?
By J. Phillips
December 12, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this
I think what’s being lost in this conversation is the fact that Petrino offense sucked, even with Vick at QB this team only wins maybe 2 more games. He was repeatedly out coach every week. Good ridence!!
By robert
December 12, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this
THIS IS WRONG FOR COACH BOBBY TO DO.THIS IS BAD TASTE.IF I WAS THE OWNER,I WOULD GET FORMER COACH DENNIS GREEN,HE WOULD BE LOYAL AND TURN THE FALCONS AROUND,I THOUGHT OF DAN REEVES,JIM M,AND MIKE S.,BUT DENNIS CAN COMMUNICATE WITH THE PLAYERS AND HE HAS A FIRE IN HIM TO GET ANOTHER CHANCE,HE WILL AND CAN GET THE JOB DONE.DENNIS GREEN WOULD BE A GREAT COACH FOR THE FALCONS,MR BLANK WOULD GET LOYALTY FROM HIM,HE SHOULD INTERVIEW HIM AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.THANKS
By razorjacket
December 13, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this
I agree. Richt is the man. I am a Jackets fan, and I grew up in Arkansas and am disgraced by this action. But, Richt is the gold standard. I hope the P. Johnson proves to be of similar ilk and restore some sense of pride to the former rivalry.
By Hunch
December 13, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this
To start off Im a razorback fan.To be able to get a proven NCAA coach as a replacement for Houstan Nutt is awesome.The only reason Bobby P left when he did was to save all the atheletes who have committed to Arkansas,from all the other college recruiters out there telling them things like “We wont get a coach,no one wants to coach at Arkansas”.So timing was crucial for the recruiting aspect of his hire.Its seems like most of the people agreeing with this article,are upset with the fact that Arkansas got a great coach.Now lets see if Felix Jones stays another year.
By gadawg57
December 13, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this
Falcons D line coach, brian vangorder, will end up taking the defensive coordinator job at a school in NE georgia, where he has recently relocated his family and his chidren attend school. North Hall High School and will get paid a very hefty salary for a high school assistant coach.
By bamadon
December 13, 2007 6:22 AM | Link to this
What do Bama and the Hogs have in common!! Bama has a sob for a coach and the Hogs have a back stabbing,liar,sorry piece of crap for a coach. I feel sorry for the owners of the Dolphins and the Falcons for hiring these SOB’S in the first place!!
MERRY X-MAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!! EXCEPT ROSWELL ED!!
By KC in Athens
December 13, 2007 7:45 AM | Link to this
Arthur Blank shows his stupidity when he pushes Vick around too much in his wheel chair and then acts surprised when Vick turns out a criminal. Is there anyone out there who didn’t seet his coming when Petrino was hired? Blank is worse than the Smith family.
By azcat225
December 13, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this
Auburn fans have to be ecstatic with the OC hire. Tuberville and company just got a whole lot scarier to the rest of the SEC.
By Gregory
December 13, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this
The Coward Petrino just made the SEC stronger! Georgia Bulldogs and Auburn will be out for his head due to the embarrassments to its organizations.
By Gregory
December 13, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this
The Coward Petrino just made the SEC stronger! Georgia Bulldogs and Auburn will be out for his head due to the embarrassments to its organizations and state.
By Gregory
December 13, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this
The Coward Petrino just made the SEC stronger! Georgia Bulldogs and Auburn will be out for his head due to the embarrassments to its organization and state.
By Dan
December 13, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
Maybe Blank could hire ex Home Depot CEO Nardelli away from Chrysler. Oops, forgot, he took Home Depot down just like the Falcons!
By Jake
December 13, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
Great Story…I can’t wait for the follow-up
By George P. Burdell
December 13, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
PR hit at Arkansas? Did you really just write that? Is there less than zero? Ha!!!!!!
By VickBeliever
December 13, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
When Mike Vick got indicted Bobby Petrino check out and has been planning for his next college job. However, the way he handle it was with a lack of class. The parents that are send thier kids to play for him in Arkansas just know that you are riding for a fall. Bobby Petrino cares about himself his wife and kids and the NEXT job he can get.
By ReggieATL
December 13, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
I am so grateful the Dawgs have CMR, and we won’t have to get mired in the muck and sleaze of a coaching hire for a long time.
By ma267zda
December 13, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
c966t
By Charlie
December 13, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
Tony, can’t wait for your five answer follw-up. Enjoy a great holiday season.
By Felixcason
December 13, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this
I think Petrino is a coward not to finish what he started. He just can’t handle the pressure of working in the nfl. The falcons aren’t the only team with losing seasons. Petrino is selfish and didn’t even care about the other coaches and staff only himself.
By TherealJB
December 13, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
braveswin, You have no dang clue what you are talking about. Dan Reeves shouldn’t have been given another contact after 3 straight losing seasons.. He was fortunate blank even kept him on and then reeves wouldn’t work with anyone in the organization. It was his way or else and you think an owner will put up with that? Heck no.. get off your reeves loving bandwagon. Just because the falcons have made poor choices doesn’t mean firing reeves was the wrong move.. It wasn’t.
By mark
December 13, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
Blank needs to seel the Falcons and buy the Braves!! No salary cap?!? You kiddin me?!? Go and get you Johan Santana and a big bat and get you WS!!!! Leave those loser franchise and MV behind!!
By george long
December 13, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
You people!! want to blame Arthur Blank for everything the Falcons do, for heven sakes quit, He has brought more to the Falcons then anyone, I should know, Are would you rather not have a pro team in Atlanta? remenber as it is in your own life, and got to take the good with the bad, We will come through all this, just give it time, Quit saying what will hurt you tomarrow,
By donald chappell
December 13, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this
i have read how all these players said that he quite on them. well i think some the players quite on him. i could care less about the whole thing but let;s be real. the great BLACK hope was gone and the players was playing for him and not a coach.i have heard some of the players say I DON;T THINK WE CAN WIN WITHOUT VICK. IF YOU DEPEND ON THAT ONE PLAYER THAT MUCH YOU DONOT DESERVE TO WIN. I don;t think the coach could get their attention because the great BLACK hope was gone and so is ours. DON;T PUT ALL THE BLAME ON THE COACH.How many times have you seen the owner push a player on the side lines in a wheele chair? only once and that was vick.
By seagreg
December 14, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
I disagree with vitually everything stated in Barnhart’s article. I actually cannot blame Petrino for leaving ATL (or any NFL team for that matter) in a lurch. The NFL (owners, teams, union, contracts) is rife with so much selfishness, greed, & corruption that MOST people could care less. I have been a Falcon fan all my life but this sorry excuse for a season has worn me out & shut my faith totally down. Blank was wrong to have fired first Dan Reeves, then Mora Jr, IMHO. Mora (though his dad did most of the telling) pointed out for anyone remotely interested in listening that Vick was a major- league COACH-Killer. Turns out he was more interested in actual killing than the figurative kind… But ATL has several professional coach killer types on their roster & again, I don’t blame Petrino (or Saban or Holtz, or ANY former NFL-HC) for jumping ship & heading back to the ‘minor league - NCAA’. There they will rediscover true passion for the game & genuine opportunities to positively mold young men’s lives for the better - something not seen in the NFL since the Laundry days in Dallas. Besides, who among us wouldn’t leave a crummy job in a heart beat if something better presented itself? I know I would, as most of you reading this now would!
By seagreg
December 14, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
re: VickBeliever, you stated “Bobby Petrino cares about himself his wife and kids and the NEXT job he can get.”
Excuse me, but that sounds like a pretty rational plan for your family’s well-being, at least to me! Maybe he should have finished the season, but would the Arkansas job still be there had he attempted to persue it that manner?
Everyone is entitled to the persuit of happiness - PERIOD. That means leaving ANY job where you’re unhappy. Its being reported the Petrino family was very unhappy in Atlanta. Should Petrino be a head coach first, then a husband & father? I don’t fault Petrino for leaving, but I think he should have at least finished the season - IF POSSIBLE, but only if it did not jeapordize the new job. Maybe Arky said NO, to such a request. Maybe Broyles said take it now or we move on with our search… We do not know & may well never know. What I suspect I DO KNOW, is that Petrino saw an opportunity to return to a high-level coaching position & jumped at the opportunity. Atlanta will survive & so will Petrino.
By brian
December 14, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
NASCARfan I have a stat for you. UGA is the only team in the past 10 years to win multiple SEC titles and have no National Championship to show for it. How about this stat, since the inception of the SEC Championship game 4 league champs have gone on to win National Championships (LSU, UT, Florida & Alabama).