AJC > Sports > Falcons > Blog > Archives > 2006 > July > 10 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFalcons in holding pattern
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Things with the Falcons are pretty quiet right now but soon, the temperature on news and activity will start to rise.
Based on some conversations I’ve had with some agents and team staff members, it’s not likely that draft pick signings will begin until next week. That’s pretty much the case around the NFL, although some teams have penned some deals.
With no first-round pick to sign — cornerback Jimmy Williams, a second-rounder, is on record saying he’ll be signed in time — there shouldn’t be any holdouts when Falcons camp starts July 27.
Also, it appears that Falcons won’t be bringing in any veteran field goal kickers until they are well into training camp. I’ve spoken to enough people who feel they can groom either Zac Derr or Tony Yelk, although neither has ever kicked in an NFL game. Seems a little risky with the potential for so many close games this season, but vets Paul Edinger and Todd Peterson are still unsigned.
A few teams likely will release some veteran kickers in training camp, as well.
If something pops this week I’ll be sure to update this blog. When training camp starts, we’ll have a fresh blog every day, so stay tuned.
Comments
By mike
July 10, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this
We can only hope that Vick is spending this time learning how to read.
By I think with a drawl
July 10, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this
8 REASONS WHY THE FALCON MAKE IT TO THE NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Rod Coleman (the most underrated D-Lineman in the game)
Professor Crump, 2nd best TE in the game
John Abraham, 15+ sacks this season
Ed Hartwell (a MLB in the mold of Ray Lewis, if he’s 100%)
Jimmy Williams, Def. Rook o’ year, sorry Mario
Lawyer Milloy, if you don’t know this guy, you’re in for a treat this year
D’Angelo, not the singer, the shutdown corner
and #1. Micheal Mexico, I mean Vick, aka Lethal Weapon 7
Remeber this phrase Falconites, defense wins the game, Mike Vick entertains. The Birds look darn good this year (on paper). They still need a go-to receiver and a reliable kicker. Look for them to run through their division, before being trounced by the Cowboys in the Conference Championship.
SUPERBOWL XLI- Cowboys 24, Ravens 10, MVP- Terrell “Do you got yo popcawn ready!?” Owens
By mike
July 10, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this
The 28th ranked QB in the league as “lethal weapon”. Thats interesting.
By falconrick
July 10, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this
If a veteran kicker is released, that would be the last thing we need. Why have they not resigned Todd? Maybe I’m missing something here, but he was fairly consistent last year- at least he didn’t miss as many as Feely did.
By jimbo
July 10, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this
will demorrio williams start he deserves it.
By dre
July 10, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this
Don’t pay any attention to Mike..he’s auditioning for “Brokeback Mountain 2”.. We can’t win 5 games without Vick
By jerry
July 10, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this
Mr.Blank:Thanks for not bringing Randy Moss to Atlanta-the Falcons don’t need that clown.
By JMar
July 10, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this
2 best TE? That’s pushing it even for a homer.
By Andy
July 10, 2006 07:01 PM | Link to this
We don’t need Randy Moss—-maybe—-I’d rather try having Moss and see what happens (and if we have to release him) than just saying no. I feel it was a mistake.
By Big XL
July 10, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this
I saw a Carolina Panther’s defensive rookie interveiwed last week. When asked about playing against Tampa, Atlanta, and New Orleans in the same division he replied,” We always talk about the Falcons. Everyday its Michael Vick, Michael Vick, Michael Vick… ” Why is the team that’s projected to have the best defense in the league and the best chance to win the Super Bowl, so concerned with the 28th ranked qb in the league? Now that’s interesting.
By JWEAVE
July 10, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this
PEOPLE WERE QUESTIONING VICK MAKING THE PRO BOWL, BUT WHEN DEFENSES AND DEF COORDS WERE ASKED WHO THE HATE TO GAMEPLAN FOR, THEY ALL SAID VICK. THEY ALL COMMENTED ON HOW YOU CANT GAMEPLAN FOR VICK AND THATS WHY HE’S NOT ONLY A PRO BOWL QB, BUT LETHAL WEAPON #7!!!!!!!!
By This gets old
July 10, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this
What’s Vick’s record against Carolina? They draft to stop him. They couldn’t beat him so they set out to change that.
Two teams [Dallas and Indy] that think they’re REALLY on the verge of the SB went out and got kickers. Close games come down to who can run the ball, who can stop the run and special teams.
Reasonably we’ve got one area covered. The other two are question marks.
By D Popkin
July 10, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this
If John Abraham performs anywhere (and I mean same solar system) as to his previous numbers, the Manamal at interior line will eat so many Quarterbacks that the Feds may step in and declare QBs endangered and don’t forget Coleman had 10+ sacks with no help on the left side and a Pro Bowler on the left who got doubled up because Pottsie Webber could handle all other rushers (except R.O.D.) Get ready for some chuck and duck from opponents and thus an improved secondary who won’t have to cover receiver routes for minutes on end. Please remeber that if the QB is under pressure routes do not develope and DB’s go to the pro bowl. Vick will become UNTOUCHABLE this season because of D-FENCE.
Man I love Da Birds!!!!
By Sick of VICK haters
July 10, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this
Vick will always have haters, that’s part of the game. The Falcon players and Brass know the real deal and that’s all that matters. If this team stays healthy, I see them playing in the SB. On paper this has to be the best Falcon’s defense ever. I know they haven’t played a down yet, but the potential is there. I hope the defense plays a little 3/4 this year to keep o-lines off balance. They have the linebacking corp for it. OBTW I wonder why Moss wanted to play with Vick? Oh, I know! he wanted to play with a WINNER!
By ski
July 10, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this
I hate the player, not the game.
Vick is overrated and your coach is in over his head (yes, I’m a Bucs fan).
One false positive of a season has all you bandwagon Falcons fans thinking Vick is the real deal, when true fans can tell you good defenses have figured out how to beat your supposed wonderboy.
Mark my prediction and heed my words: the Falcons WILL finish under .500 next season and Mora WILL be fired within the next two seasons.
Enjoy.
By BirdDawg
July 10, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this
Sounds like Ski is scared, and overcompensating by being loud-mouthed on our Falcons board.
No, Vick is going to be his usual self. Great.
Y’all have to realize. Michael Vick is Wolverine circa the 1970’s. He’s slashing. He’s destroying.
Basically, Michael Vick is what Wolverine always used to say in those days… He’s the best at what he does.
And no one else does it like him. Any of y’all can trot out QB stats until the cows come home. The only thing that matters to me, and what should matter to any Bird Fan is the W’s. And Vick brings home the W’s.
Your precious Doug Johnson never did.
And neither has Matt Fraud.
But, stupid is as stupid does, I guess.
By Big XL
July 10, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this
Sick of VICK haters , good post! But I hear you, on paper this defense is nasty. Barring injury they should rock, but it has to translate on the field. Changing formations, moving players like Demario Williams around to blitz from different angles, allowing DeAngelo Hall to play up on recievers and occasionally … center field( Ha Ha Ha { sinisterly } Watch qb’s wet their pants!!!) will keep the defense hard to adjust to, and from becoming predictable.
I hope the Falcon’s use the preseason to determine who to keep & cut, much more so than anything else. They must start the season healthy!!! Three of the first four games are in the division, a fast start is imperative. I believe they’ll get it done.
GO FALCONS
By Larry
July 11, 2006 06:36 AM | Link to this
“And no one else does it like him. Any of y’all can trot out QB stats until the cows come home. The only thing that matters to me, and what should matter to any Bird Fan is the W’s. And Vick brings home the W’s.”
Hmm! Let’s see! So Vick is a “winner.” Seems as though his record in his last 8 games is 2-6.
Maybe, just maybe, Vick WAS a winner, now that the good defenses stack the line HOPING for Vick to pass, in which case, he is perhaps the most inaccurate QB in NFL history. Kind of sad, really, that our opponents WANT our QB to throw the football.
The book on Vick is now very simple: In passing situations, blitz, man-up his receivers, prevent the long run, and he’ll never consistently sustain drives with his passing ability and coverage reading skills.
He has the legs of a deer, but the mind of a deer in headlights!
By Barry
July 11, 2006 07:52 AM | Link to this
Hey You Falcon Haters:
Get real. The Falcons are going to be the Rock of the NFL. They will be the most exciting team on offensive and defense. In reference to publicity for Tampa, Carolina and others, let them have it. That is what is going to make it so SWEET when the Falcons “Angrily” start kicking that “A—”.
Ringold
By Charles
July 11, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this
Larry you are an idiot. I guess you did not watch the games. Yes they did finish 2-6 but it was the defense giving up leads in the 4th quarter. The teams that think they have Vick figured out will be mistaken. Believe it or not Vick was smarting with the knee and hamstring problems.
By KB
July 11, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this
Let’s be real. This team rises and falls on what Michael Vick does. Do not fool yourselves. Mr. McKay has done a heckva job in putting some much needed life in this football team. But the main reason for what succees the Falcons have had lately has been the drafting of Michael Vick. I like the pickup of Bill Musgave. He will take M. Vick to the next level of this development. To all of the M. Vick’s haters, remember one thing. It takes five years for a quarterback in the west coast offense to fully mature into the position. Michael has been hurt in one season. This year we will see glimps of what defensive coordinators are scared of seeing, a well balanced Michael Vick.
By Keeping it real !!!
July 11, 2006 09:25 AM | Link to this
The defense look good . The offense line get a real job! 27th ranking in the N.F.L. last year in passing! We need Help!
By BirdDawg
July 11, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this
You’ll have to excuse Larry, he’s what I would call our local idiot. He’s not as smart than most (shoot, he’s dumber than Gump).
Larry would have you believe that Michael Vick is the problem, that he’s the reason our defense was one of the worst in the league last year.
Or that Michael Vick is the one who was calling runs on third and long, or calling Duckett’s name for third and short and fourth and short (that was the real idiot on this team, Greg Knapp).
Yep, according to Larry, Vick is to blame for everything, and only his favorite white QB, Matt Fraud, will do.
By e-roll
July 11, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this
Larry, check your stats about the offense in the last 8 games. Green Bay - scored 25 Tampa Bay - scored 27 Detroit - scored 27 Carolina - scored 6 New Orleans - scored 36 Chicago - scored 3 Tampa Bay - scored 24 Carolina - scored 11
Now any defensive coordinator will tell you if you give them 24 points, they should win that game. Which is why we spent so much to improve our defense.
By Larry
July 11, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this
BirdDawg,
“He’s not as smart than most..” Good English, Bubba! I guess that 2.1 GPA from the Atlanta Public School System kept you from getting recruited, huh? Is this why you’re so protective of Vick’s well known cerebral inadequacies? BirdDawg, do you STILL believe wrestling is real?
Sorry folks. Now I’m picking on retards.
You guys are not getting it! Our defensive issues were apparent and have been largely—not totally—addressed. We still need a refrigerator in the middle to compensate for our size. You can’t sack the QB when the opponent is running the ball down your throat behind large, skilled offensive lineman.
I’m simply talking about our QB’s OBVIOUS inability to read defenses and deliver on timing routs. This team may be good enough to get to the postseason. However, when you reach the second or third playoff opponent you’ll usually be facing the best defenses. The best defenses—like the Eagles in the 2002 and 2004 playoffs and the Bears last year—always expose Vick for what he is: a playground caliber QB who runs fast and throws a long tight spiral. He has actually become relatively easy to defend: take away his tight-end, make him run and tackle him—EASY
By BirdDawg
July 11, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this
Well, if that ain’t the pot calling the kettle black, Larry!
I have a question for you Larry, the same question I always do.
How many wins does your favorite white QB have?
By I think with a drawl
July 11, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
I tell you what, if any one of our receivers decides to earn the money he makes, the Falcons might not lose. If Moss had landed in Atlanta (and he should have, I mean these guys are football players, not guidance counselors) Vick would easily pass for 3,000 yards. Combine that with about 800-900 on the ground and you have a potent, winning formula. My estimation of the Falcons’s success this season is based on the acquistions on defense the past couple of years. Defense has won the past six Super Bowls, and the majority of the other ones. Bottom line:
THE FALCONS HAVE A LEGITIMATE SHOT AT A TITLE RUN THIS YEAR!
It’s just too bad that T.O. and Bill Parcells work on the same sideline.
P.S.- How ‘bout them Dawgs!!!
By Carafo's long-time companion
July 11, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this
I have a question for all of the pathetic jock-sniffers who worship at Vick’s throne:
Why do you give your savior ALL of the credit for the team’s wins, but NONE of the blame for the team’s losses?
Bonus question: does anyone else think that BirdDawg is an arrogant, condescending, egomaniacal, pompous, self-righteous windbag?
By Larry
July 11, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this
Carafo’s long-time companion,
Touché!
Prepare to wait a while for BirdDawg’s adolescent response after he consults his dictionary to attempt to determine if your post was a compliment or the contrary.
By laved11
July 11, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this
For Larry and others who believe a quarterback is their tax return, a good QB simply does whatever it takes to help his team win. Peyton Manning is the best passer in the game and Larry can quote stat after stat, but the truth is Manning has become easy to defend because the book on him is if he gets pressured a little, his accuracy goes out the window.
Both are on the same level because they use what they can do to help their teams. Manning needs to improve as a play-maker and Vick needs to improve as a pocket-passer. Both have had the same amount of success, but Vick is four years younger… advantage No. 7.
By I think with a drawl
July 11, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this
Vick is a revolutionary at his position. His path was paved by the likes of Doug Williams and James Harris. He follows Randall Cunningham and Steve McNair. He’s a better runner than McNabb, and a better passer than he has shown. He’s the reason Vince Young went third. He’s a winner, and that is the most important stat any QB can have attributed to himself.
Does anybody know his overall record as a starter? Please post.
By Eric
July 11, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this
I really cant believe that in the year 2006 there are still people that cant see past the color of a QB’s skin. Vick wins and Shaub hasn’t done diddly squat. Wake up white people. Its the 21st century. Quit hating and enjoy the greatest show on turf in the form of #7. Real football lovers love the game and want to see a winner. Most of you guys would rather see Shaub lead the Falcons to 2-14 than see a colored boy win the SB
By Ziek
July 11, 2006 01:14 PM | Link to this
I think it is ignorant to bring race into this. McNabb has become a great QB, Vick has not. Shaub is a better passer and understands the offense better right now because he grew up in the system. Thus far in Vick’s career, he is a terrible passer. If he does not prove otherwise this year he will be a major bust.
By Smelly Faturdo
July 11, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this
Eric, don’t take this the wrong way, but you are a blithering idiot.
Evidently, you value style over substance. I bet you put a set of $2,000 rims on that ‘87 Ford Escort you drive.
BTW, how much winning did your savior do in the last three games of the 2005 season?
By cp
July 11, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this
Ziek if Schaub is so much a better passer please explain to me why his completion percentage is lower than Vicks?
By Spitttin Venom
July 11, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this
How many Vick’s stats suck blogers does it take to screw in a light bulb? 4
Two to hold the ladder.
One to hold the bulb.
One to explain plumbing which also has nothing to do with the success of the project.
By cp
July 11, 2006 01:32 PM | Link to this
Smelly how many games did the defense cost the Falcons in the 05 season? From i remember because i actually watched the games the defense cost the team 4 wins. So i guess its easy for people like you to consistently blame the qb although the offense did enough to win games but the defense layed down and let the other team drive down the field with no type of problem.
By I think with a drawl
July 11, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
Vick vs. Schaub, not a contest.
Schaub will never start in Atlanta, and he shouldn’t because he isn’t the best quarterback on the squad.
Guess who is?
The same guy that won in Lambeau, in the snow, in the playoffs.
The same guy that needs a playmaker on the outside, plain, pure, and simple.
Name one Super Bowl team (not even a winner) that didn’t have at least one CONSISTENT playmaker on the outside.
I DARE YOU.
By KayDee
July 11, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
I hear what Eric is saying. Also to everybody else who thinks that Mike is overrated and all hype check out the wins versus losses. Before he got hurt last year the falcons were 6 -2 goin into the new england game. Matt Schaub played a good game throwing for over 300 and the defense LET US DOWN!!! When will real football watchers wake and see defense wins games. Our 11 - 5 year 2 years ago top ten defense. 1998 top ten defense with my man tuggle in the middle, get real larry u dont know s**t. Thanks E-roll for posting this “Larry, check your stats about the offense in the last 8 games. Green Bay - scored 25 Tampa Bay - scored 27 Detroit - scored 27 Carolina - scored 6 New Orleans - scored 36 Chicago - scored 3 Tampa Bay - scored 24 Carolina - scored 11,” my comment for that is this if the defense does what it is suppose to we go 11 - 5 again. Vick is not to blame, our line can pass block and our oc is a retard. No wonder t.o. ate his lunch in San Fran. So if Mr. Ed can stay healthy, p. kerney gets back to 04 form, dbs play to hype, and demorrio plays the way people use him in madden I forsee a good season and a competitive playoffs in the cards for the atlanta flacons. P.S. believe it or not we could win without vick not that i wanna see that because he’s great but in 03 when he went down the d played horrible and consequently NO WINS. Check out the trends of our winning seasons lethal weapon #7 is key but the D is even more key.
Da Prince Has Spoken
By BirdDawg
July 11, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this
I love how people love to quote stats, like the socially retarded Larry, and who love Matt Schaub like he’s the second coming, when all he is is the next Doug Johnson, when Matt Fraud’s stats are worse than Vicks.
In fact, the man hasn’t even won a game.
So, while Matt Fraud has a better grasp as you say, Zeik, the one thing he truly has a better grasp on than Vick is losing.
Because the man hasn’t won a single game as an NFL starter.
He underachieved in college, leading a pretty decent UVA squad to some so-so 8-4 records. He’s had one decent game as a pro, in an offense he “understands,” and yet, did not win the game!
And because of that game, which he lost, we have the local idiots (i.e. Larry) annointing Matt Fraud as the second coming, when all he is is another link in the chain of pitiful Falcons QBs. He’s Billy Joe Tolliver. He’s Doug Johnson. He’s Kurt Kitner. He’s a back-up QB, who some fans love because yes, his skincolor is a lighter shade of brown than our starting QB’s, who hasn’t won a damn thing in this league, so of course he’s a better option that the franchise winningest QB!
Of course he’s better than the QB with the third-highest winning percentage in the NFL.
Here’s the funny thing about Larry. He claims to be a Falcon fan, but does not recognize that stat is “real” because the NFL doesn’t have a page in a book devoted to it. Yet here’s the thing, if Larry were to put his single-brain cell to use, he’d find that only two QBs starting in this game right now, have better winning percentages than Vick. Brady and McNabb. By the company he keeps in that stat, that should tell you something about Vick. And, he has that winning percentage with far less talent to rely upon on his team than Brady and McNabb.
Another way to argue Larry on this point when he says this statistic is meaningless is to ask him what Doug Johnson, Kurt Kitner, and or Matt Fraud’s winning percentage is with those same teams Vick was leading to wins.
I can tell you what Matt Fraud’s is: 0.00%, or dead last in the NFL. I haven’t done the research on Doug Johnson and Kitner, but it has to be around 30%. Which is good for a batting average, not so good for a winning team.
And then ask Larry what Vick did when he came back from injury. He took that team, which Johnson and Kitner ran into the ground at 1 - 10, and won 4 out of 5 games, including a win over eventual NFC Champion Carolina in a game they had to win because it would have helped secure them homefield in the playoffs!
Meaningless statistic, indeed!
The only thing, Larry, which is meaningless here is you and your biased hatred for Vick. You prove yourself to be more unitelligent as a football fan with every vitriolic statement about Vick you make.
You never back-up your arguments with stats or facts which matter, or are important. I guess you think BigBen sucks as well, winning the Super Bowl with a 22 QB rating? The only recourse you have to call Vick names, and to bash his supporters.
You can start things Larry, but unfortunately, in the clutch, you just can’t ever finish them.
You’re the ARod of the Falcons Blog.
You’re L-Fraud.
By BirdDawg
July 11, 2006 01:59 PM | Link to this
And unlike Larry, I am more than willing to admit my mistakes.
Vick came back and won 3 out of 4 games for the Falcons, not 4 out of 5, as was previously reported by this fan.
Back to our regularly scheduled bashing of of the Vick-haters.
By I think with a drawl
July 11, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this
Yep, Vick is a definite winner, as are all people born in the year 1980. The only QB in the league right now with a bigger, and better arm (notice I did not type accurate) is Tom Brady.
The only athlete with better legs is Barbaros (oops!)
Enough of the silly stuff.
Yo, Vick is a great QB.
He will lead the Falcons to the land of milk and honey before it is all over, I just don’t see it this year.
The front office has to wise up and stop being ridiculous when trying to convince fans that character matters so much in pro football. Randy Moss would have been an excellent addition to this team. He’s a winner too. If you want a choir boy, go to church.
By I think with a drawl
July 11, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this
This is truly deplorable!
Please read:
Randy Moss was eyeing a condo on Peachtree
By KayDee
July 11, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this
amen my friend, amen
By Smakmibichup
July 11, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this
Hey I thought we were passed that whole colored thing people we don’t need any pitchfork and neuse carrying mobs to start coming after us. We already get shot at as it is on the dark side of Atlanta (slightly to the right of the Georgia Dome).
By Smakmibichup
July 11, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
The Keys to the Falcons having a breakout season are as follows: (1.) STAY HEALTHY!!!(Are team is fine personel wise we just cant get hurt while we’re 6-2 and going into a bye week) (2.) START EARLY!!! (One of the Falcons main problems for years is getting a slow start. You can’t assume your defense is going to stop your oppponent, this isn’t Madden you know) (3.) SCORE! SCORE! SCORE! (With any chance you get whether its a 2nd and 10 at the opponents 20, a kick-off/punt return, or a fumble and or interception. Try to bring it back home into a score no matter what, don’t give up. We had a lot of defensive scores in 2004.
Thats just my opinion, im out. PEACE!!!
By Slinky
July 11, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
Nice read:
http://www.freewebs.com/cover2football/aroundthenfl.htm
By I think with a syrupy drawl
July 11, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this
Regarding this whole Black- White QB debate:
I hope no one cares what color the QB is of the team they cheer for, as long as he wins.
As a black man, I am proud of the way the league has opened up to QB’s of my shared ancestory and descent.
Having said that here is my top 10 of current NFL QB’s:
“Can’t we all just get along” - R. King
By I think with a silky, southern drawl
July 11, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this
Nice link Slinky. I think the Mike Vick Experience is worth the price of admission. I saw him against Philly last year on Monday nigth in the Dome. That guy is magic! Remember, he’s only 26. If he can stay healthy, he’ll win the big one before he’s done. That’s guaranteed like a post office money order.
By KayDee
July 11, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this
i like the qb list but what bout clupepper??
By DIRRTYBIRD
July 11, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this
has anyone that wants to sign Randy Moss ever heard of something called the SALARY CAP?
By T
July 11, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this
I don’t the Falcon’s will go anywhere without AJ Hawk!
By BirdDawg
July 11, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this
AJ Hawk? The most overrated player in all of NCAA football last year? The next Andy Katzenmoyer? That AJ Hawk?
I think the Birds, with the defense they have now, will live and die by that horrible offensive line, and if Greg Knapp can pull his head out of his @$$ and learn how to make halftime adjustments and in-game adjustments.
That my friends, is what is keeping the Birds down.
The O-Line and their horrendous pass-blocking (which requires some skill, and not the semi-cheating they use to open up holes in the running game), and the single worst OC in all of the NFL, Greg Knapp.
If the Birds can get those two entities to actually be decent, then they are Super Bowl bound. The schedual this year isn’t as bad as last years’. There are hard games, and there will be some losses. But it is not out of the question to see 11 wins in this schedule.
11 wins in the NFC gets you the bye, and maybe homefield, if you win in your division and against the conference. And we all remember what it was like in the Dome 2 years ago when the Rams came to town. I sure do. I was up in the bleeders screaming my head off and wearing my MV7 jersey.
Imagine having two games like that, the second one being for the right to go to the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, we play in the second toughest division in the NFL right now, after the AFC North, and Seattle plays in the weakest. So more than likely, the road to the Super Bowl goes through Seattle again.
But let’s get there first! I can’t wait for the season to begin!
By Brian
July 12, 2006 02:39 AM | Link to this
I hope all you racist and Vick haters die; until then, the only thing that matters is filling our trophy case with a shiney Lombardi! Go Falcons….
By bored at work
July 12, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this
To all the vick haters, I bet if you put Vick on the Colts, and Manning on the Falcons, Vick will continyally lead the colts to victory where as, Manning would have a sub 500 record with the falcons. It is hard to have a high completion percentage, when you are constantly running for your life, because you have NO blocking. I have seen high school teams that could block better and longer in the NFL than the falcons. vick finds ways to win with what he has, but the bottom line is he WINS!!
By bob
July 12, 2006 12:14 PM | Link to this
Can we stop bashing Matt Schaub. This Matt Fraud stuff is childish. The fact is that yes, he has yet to win in the NFL, but he’s alson hung close with the Pats when they visited the Dome last year, and he is in high demand, somewhat.
The simple truth is that niether Schaub nor Vick will be able to sustain success in Atlanta so long as the O-Line is just letting defenders waltz right by them. Get a new, better, stronger, O-Line and the pieces will fall into place.
By Eric
July 12, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this
Hey I guess Smelly is your nickname and your football IQ. You dont have to admtit the reasons that you hate Vick but your utter lack of knowledge of the game is admission enough. Vick has done a good job for this squad without the help of primetime receivers. And as for you Ziek. I didnt bring race into this discussion, I just responded to the ignorance. Smelly Faturdo made a comment about $2000 rims on an 87 escort. What size rims did you put on tour trailer. Did any of you guys forget about the only thing that really matters in pro sports. JUST WIN BABY!! and Vick gets that one over Shaub any day of the week but especially on Sunday.
By Keeping it real !!!
July 12, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this
We still need a up grade for #61 and #62 please, Just look at any game tape!!!!!!!!!
By I think with a silky, southern drawl
July 12, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this
The Offensive line is not th problem. Drafting two recievers in the first round that don’t produce like first rounders, now that’s a problem.
By Buck
July 12, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
Defense wins Super Bowls, and the times that the Falcons have done well, the defense played well. I’ve been a Falcons fan all my life. It shames me that so-called Falcons fans don’t support the team fully because they don’t like the quarterback. I’ve suffered through the likes of Chris Miller, David Archer, June Jones, Chris chandler, Doug johnson, billy joe tolliver, kurt kittner;and I’m still standing as a FAN!!!! Mike gives us the best chance to win and has won his record speaks for itself. Great quarterback play doesn’t win the super bowl ask Big Ben, Trent Dilfer, Brad Johnson, Jim Plunkett,even Kurt Warner didn’t play his best game inthe Super bowl. Let’s get over the petty name calling, and racial innuendos. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!
By Gentry
July 12, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this
Great email Buck!!! I’m just like you I have also witnessed the terrible QB’s of the past and what we have now is some much more of an upgrade I’m tickled pink. I have always loved the Falcons no matter how bad they have played. I have been a watching this team since 1977 and believe me there were some bad teams back then.
I love the support that we get on game day that something I never saw consistantly as a kid watching them at the old Fulton County Staduim.
Let’s just continue to support this great team. We have come a long way even if we haven’t made it the mountain top yet. But we will get there it more of a possibility now than it ever been.
See all of you guys in September!!! LET’S GO BIRDS!!!!
By keeping it REAL !
July 12, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this
Falcons JUST WIN! GO BAD A$$ BIRDS!
By Eugene
July 12, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this
For many years I have loved watching the play of the Falcons. To date my all time favorite quarterback is “Bad Bart” and running back is William Andrews. Although I continue to enjoy watching the Falcons with Vick as their quarterback the Princess Cut ear rings he wears just does not project the old “Dirty Bird” image to me.
By Whatever
July 12, 2006 11:24 PM | Link to this
So tell me Eugene….would you prefer Vick wear the round diamond cut?
By 404-755-8222
July 12, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this
has anyone looked at the schedule? we could easily be 2-5 after the first 7. I’m just wondering if the media is going to call out the coaches when they don’t play Vick in the preseason and he has a “classic” performance week 1 at Carolina. last season he scored 6pts and then 3.
By Eugene
July 13, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this
I don’t much about the best cut of diamond for a southern football player to wear but I would hope that it would not be the same cut that my wife wears.
By titothebear
July 13, 2006 01:45 AM | Link to this
hey Dial-A-Prayer
The Foulcons won’t be 2-5 after the first seven games! Them birds are going for a clean sweep! 0-7 or bust! We’ve got the talent to plumb new depths. With Mike Vick at quarterback, how could we go right? The record will be 3-13 for the year if we can just hit a hot streak. Number seven gon’ take us to loser heaven. Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeehaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaw! Look out bumpkins, we’re going to show the rest of the league how to lose BIG! Last year, Vick was the twenty-eighth best quarterback in the league. He won’t be able to maintain that exalted position!
By titothebear
July 13, 2006 01:51 AM | Link to this
Vick brings home the W’s. That fool couldn’t spell “W”, much less bring it home. Foulcons will be 3-13 this season. Bring that home fool!
By titothebear
July 13, 2006 01:58 AM | Link to this
I hope all you racist and Vick haters die; until then, the only thing that matters is filling our trophy case with a shiney Lombardi! Go Falcons…. The Foulcons don’t have a trophy case! Never needed one. Fool, the Foulcons are one of the worst franchises in the history of the NFL. This year they’ll go 3-13. Teams with that sort of record don’t get trophys. They get rid of inferior quarterbacks and moron coaches. They’ve done plenty of that and they gon’ do it some more. Bye fool.
By ROCKBUSTER
July 13, 2006 08:34 AM | Link to this
I ENJOY ALL THE COMMEMTS BUT PLEASE KEEP RACE OUT OF IT.CAN’T WAIT TILL THE SEASON TO START.GO BIRDS.
By ROCKBUSTER
July 13, 2006 08:47 AM | Link to this
I ENJOY ALL YOUR COMMENTS BUT PLEASE LEAVE RACE OUT OF IT.CAN’T WAIT TILL SEASON TO START. GO FALCONS.
By DoctorMojo
July 13, 2006 10:55 PM | Link to this
I think Vick has some fans that are blinded to his weaknesses, true. But the Vick Haters who want anybody but him to start are far, far worse.
Vick is flighty, a little conceited, and can become frustrated when things don’t go his way. He’s relied on his athleticism to be his saviour, and hasn’t fully committed to reading defenses, and is too much of a gambler to play smart consistently. Much like Brett Favre, winning so many of those gambles sometimes works against him. He also has a very strong arm, has proven that he can be accurate in the right system, and extremely difficult to gameplan for. Great instincts, great heart, and with the exception of that one year, when his friend and mentor Donovan McNabb told him not to play hurt, will play through pain. He will roll around like a soccer player for a bit (not nearly that bad) but then he’ll get up and start playing. And after watching McNabb ignore his own advice, we’ll see what Vick learns from that.
And it is unfortunate, but you can never just “leave race out of it.” I still hear how blacks don’t play QB because they’re not smart enough. And every white QB that plays behind Vick gets absurd acclaim, even though they don’t win games. Racism in this country isn’t as out of hand as in, say, international soccer, but it’s an undertone. In every Barry Bonds attack, every anti-basketball complaint, and every time you hear a comedy bit on the radio with someone imitating a black athlete by talking like a thug, no matter how bright said athlete is in real life.
By whatever
July 14, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this
Hey titothebear, why don’t you just stick to the sporting news and mclaughlin group blogs and get the hell out of here.
By dustin
July 14, 2006 07:49 AM | Link to this
The Falcons will be in the playoffs this year!! The Falcons can win it ALL this year!! whoever said we’d be 3-13 sure dosent know football very well! GO ATL!
By dustin
July 14, 2006 07:52 AM | Link to this
any Falcons hater out there theres only one thing 2 say. Atlanta Falcons- #1 rushing team in the NFL! - A VERY improved defence! so falcons haters…please stay off the bandwagon when we go to the superbowl!!
By bucko
July 14, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this
Hey if you are a true falcon fan you will quit downing any player on the falcons team and get behind the players we have. If you think vick is not the man then time will tell so until then he is our Q.B. and i’m all for him.
By titothebear
July 14, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this
Whatever, are you the Welcoming Committee? Well, thank you for those kind words. I have graciously decided to come to this blog in the wilderness to bathe the ignorant and unwashed in the fount of knowledge and wisdom that accompanies me wherever I go. Some of the more ignorant, among the vermin on this board, constantly speak of the Foulcons as if they are going to be a playoff team in 2006. They, instead, will be a prayoff team. With that horrible quarterback, the Foulcons will wind up 3-13 for the year. They will lose their first seven games. I have it on good authority from my pal Kreskin. So, get ready for another season of losses and degradation. The Foulcons are an awful team with inept coaches and non-discerning fans. Fill that ugly dome and watch Vick screw up! Watch as the Foulcons lose every game in their division. Be proud of your losing team. Be proud of your loser town. Be proud to be a loser!
By arthur blank
July 14, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this
the falcons will only make the playoffs if vick gets hurt. Pure and simple. Vick holds on to the football longer then Drew Bledsow and tries to make up for his lack of reading ability with a 4.2 second 40. If the falcons need a go to receiver, put Vick at receiver and let shaubb run the offense. There is a reason that many teams pursued shaubb heavily this offseason and there is a reason the falcons turned them all down. In the game shaubb started against New England, his first ever start against one of the smartest, trickiest defenses in the league, Shaubb threw as many td’s and almost as many passing yards in the one game that Vick had thrown the whole season till he got hurt the weak before. When a winning team is looking for a qb they are looking for 3 things: character/leadership, arm strength, and defense decision making. Mobility is an added bonus that is never a consideration on choosing a quaterback. Shaubb has Vick beat on 2/3 and if given a chance, he will show he will lead the falcons to a super bowl.
By Tim from Suwanee
July 14, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this
Good day Steve, I heard your radio comments the other day about Algae Crumpler’s surgery, then I read the story. may I suggest interviewing a shoulder specialist for his general knowledge of this type of surgery? Why? In the summer of 2004 my son had Labrum surgery. In the spring of 2005, during a followup visit, my son asked the surgeon about playing football in the fall. His response was, in a word, “NO”. why? Pain, wear, tear, and re-injury. I thought this might be helpful.
By BirdDawg
July 14, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this
Arthur Blank, I hate to say this, but you are a moron who knows nothing of football, and even less than titothebear.
That Patriots defense the Falcons faced last year?
The 31st ranked D at the time the Falcons played them. They had injuries galore in their secondary, LBs, and DL. Seymore was out of the game, as was the Pats heart on D, Bruschi. No Harrison at safety. Their No. 1 CB wasn’t playing.
They sucked. And yet, still beat the Falcons. In fact, it was in beating the Falcons with Matt Fraud at the helm that catapulted a team which hadn’t won back to back games at that point into a solid playoff run.
So sorry, Artie, you’re dead wrong. You’re a moron who is sullying the name of thr true Arthur Blank, and you don’t one damn intelligent thing about this game.
If Vick played against the Pats, the Falcons beat the Pats.
Matt Fraud has never, ever won a game. His stats are worse than Vicks. And they’d be much worse if he didn’t have the opportunity to throw against the 31st-ranked defense in the league at the time, the Patriots.
Why don’t you go peddle your hate and ignorance somewhere else?
By titothebear
July 14, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this
Slawdawg,
Still ignorant i see. If Vick had started the game against the patriots the Foulcons would have lost by forty. He’s rated number twenty-eight in the league and, this year, he won’t be that high. Matt Schaub is superior to Vick in every aspect of quartebacking and you know that. Your problem with him has more to do with his complexion than with his talent, which towers over that of Mr. Nappy. You Foulcons idiots can talk all the stuff you want but when the losses start piling up, and pile up they will, you’ll be forced to backtrack and offer up lame excuses for the even lamer performance of Braid Boy. You are a pitiable, yet perfect, example of Foulcons fans who cheer and boast about your team and it has never had back to back winning seasons in forty years of miserable existence. If the NFL needed an enema the hose would be inserted into the Georgia Dome. Get lost!
By Eric
July 14, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this
You guys have to remember that this is a FAN blog. Some of you don’t qualify. All you haters need to find another team to hate on, and leave the FAN blogging to well FANS.
By titothebear
July 15, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this
I despise the Foulcons and their fans! What a bunch of trash talkin’ morons. The trash talkin’ is just that too. It’s never been backed up and it won’t be this year either. Get ready for that 3 and 13 record. Hate on that foo!
By Earl Jones
July 15, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this
I worked with your Dad at WDCA and WATL.
I am also a former Atlanta Falcon. We are in Hampton for AAU nationals.
Help me contact your father.
312-848-3846
By Earl Jones
July 15, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this
FYI
I am in Hampton until Wed. Frank might want to see some basketball.
By BirdDawg
July 15, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this
titotheignorant…
Once again, I am as a lilly white as bleached flour.
But I despise people like you and Larry, who hate Vick because of the color of his skin, and love his fraud of a backup who hasn’t won a damn think or proven he can win in this league.
By whatever
July 15, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this
Hey Earl Jones, You need to pay your phone bill, man. I just tried to call that number and it’s disconnected.
Hey everyone, titothebear gets banned from other blogs for making nazi references. What a loser.
By nunna yo biznezz
July 16, 2006 10:24 AM | Link to this
Tito..Matt Schaub is a Pre-Season Dynamo!! Vick faces blitzes and rush packages in the pre-season,and as soon as he comes out and Matt comes in,BAMM..The other team calls off the dogs and Matt faces the 3rd and 4th teamers with our 1st team..
Go to NFL.COM and look at all the QB’s who had monster days against the Pats with there depleted defense.I guess u also forgot about the 3INT’s that were dropped by the Pats in that game..Right in there hands and out..
He is a decent back up who is not gonna get any better than he is now..He is all he’s gonna be,right now!!
By titothebear
July 16, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this
Matt Schaub is much better than Vick and he will be the starter after game seven, if not before. Interesting that you, Nunnya, would point to how easy it was for a quarterback to excel against the new England defense. Well, what about some of the other teams? Vick threw three interceptions agains the Jets and passed for 105 yards. Schaub would have shredded them and you know it!
By titothebear
July 16, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this
Slawdawg you are fruity as a nutcake! i don’t like Vick as a quarterback. He’s pathetically untalented! It will be a pleasure to watch the Foulcons go 3-13. That loser will be jettisoned after all the losings done. Then, perhaps, we won’t have to read about how you like to cover yourself in flour and other eccentricities.
By titothebear
July 16, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this
Whatever, moron I made anti-nazi remarks. Sorry if you are upset at my lack of respect for your Nazi president! Nah, I’m not really sorry at all.
By BirdDawg
July 16, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this
Steve, you have to be able to do something about this raving lunatic.
I know that the ChopChick was able to get another raving lunatic kicked off of the Braves’ Blogs by reporting him and having his IP Address blocked (gee, I wonder if this is the same raving lunatic).
You need to do this for this racist SOB and those like him who are only on here to sow hate and discontent.
Please, Steve, get this guy outa here! I know I am not the only one who feels this way. We’re all sick and tired of the tito’s and the Larry’s on this blog.
By titothebear
July 16, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this
You are the one doing the hating, Slawdawg! You and Whatever and all the other Foulcons fans can not stand it when someone disagrees with you about Vick and other aspects of the pitiful Foulcons. You cry racism and, yet, you regularly indulge in using vernacular that insinuates racial considerations into the conversation. Get a life! I know you would like for everyone to agree with you that the Foulcons are going to the Superbowl when you and I both know they’ll be in the toiletbowl after week four. Do you need your pacifier?
By titothebear
July 16, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
. He’s a back-up QB, who some fans love because yes, his skincolor is a lighter shade of brown than our starting QB’s The flatulence above is taken from one of Slawdawg’s entries on this board. He can’t win an argument so he demonizes whomever has superior knowledge and vocabulary skills as a racist and squeals, like a little girl, for them to be excluded from intercourse on this site. Typical Foulcon behavior! Shout down those who point out weaknesses of this miserable team. It won’t change a thing even if the mangement should get wobbly in the knees and accede to your vituperations. The Foulcons will still be losers and you’ll still be telling people the Foulcons are great and Vick is the best quarterback and other similar, silly little girl fantasies.
By True Believer
July 16, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this
With Gregg Knapp running the offense, Falcons go 5-11. Vick demands trade at end of season.
Falcons must learn how to beat Tampa. They have absolutely ZERO confidence whenever they step on the field with them. It’s a true punk-out factor.
By titothebear
July 16, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this
. He’s a back-up QB, who some fans love because yes, his skincolor is a lighter shade of brown than our starting QB’s The flatulence above is taken from one of Slawdawg’s entries on this board. He can’t win an argument so he demonizes whomever has superior knowledge and vocabulary skills as a racist and squeals, like a little girl, for them to be excluded from intercourse on this site. Typical Foulcon behavior! Shout down those who point out weaknesses of this miserable team. It won’t change a thing even if the mangement should get wobbly in the knees and accede to your vituperations. The Foulcons will still be losers and you’ll still be telling people the Foulcons are great and Vick is the best quarterback and other similar, silly little girl fantasies.
By vickisick
July 17, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this
tito…why do you constantly post negative blogs about the falcons? go back to tampa fkinkunt.
By titothebear
July 17, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this
Brokeback mountain is my favorite movie. I like boys.
By DIRRTYBIRD
July 17, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
Tito set himself up for a short season here on the Falcons blog. He’s been predicting a 3-13 season all offseason. Right at win #4, Tito becomes obsolete. He’s the guy who makes a lot of noise during the offseason, but you wont’ be seeing him around come game time. Especially after we beat the overated Panthers again. Michael Vick led Falcons are 5-2 against those panthers. See you at win #4 tittybear.
By titothebear
July 17, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this
Stinkybird, What were the Foulcons against the Panthers last season? 0-2 would be the correct response. How about that 44-11 whuppin’ in the finale? Remember that Birdbrain? As for win number 4, the Foulcons won’t go beyond three. Your Foulcons are already out of the playoff picture and training camp hasn’t started yet!
By titothebear
July 17, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this
Hey I’m sickofvick too! What an over-hyped underachiever. He’ll lead the league in braids once again but that’s all, unless you count interceptions. He’ll put ‘em up and the defenses will yank ‘em down. Get ready for a really bad year of losing. You know, like most years are for the Foulcons. What a terrible quarterback but he’s what the Foulcons want and he’s certainly what they, and you uneducated fans, deserve. Have a nice evening and try to learn some spelling. A mind, even one as dim as yours, is a terrible thing to waste.
By DIRRTYBIRD
July 17, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this
Hey Tittybear, you’re talking about a guy who has never had a losing record in his entire life. 8-7 last year is his worst record ever. What is Delhommes worst record? Please ramble on for now about passing stats, but just promise us that at win#4 you will do the honorable thing and take your nonsense to the Bucs board. The only reason you spend your time on this board is because you see the Falcons as a threat. I know that you’re not on the New Orleans board rambling about nothing are you? Didn’t think so. Win#4 and Bye Bye.
By titothebear
July 17, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this
I’ve never seen Brokeback Mountain but I have seen Brokeback Foulcons. When John Abraham was presented to the media, he came out wearing two earrings and a strand of pearls. What a frightening countenace! On Sundays he will grab and tackle and get unnecessarily rough and that’s in the hot tub. On the field, he will be rough and tumble as he piles on. I pity the fool who gets caught up in his embrace and winds up under him on that concrete floor. Yes, that Foulcons defense will be top drawer. If opposing players don’t fall down when they are clutched the Foulcons defenders will scratch their eyes out and smite them with their handbags. It’s going to be a frightening display!
By DIRRTYBIRD
July 17, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this
boooring. Now here is a guy who is accusing John Abraham of being gay. Are you just trying to completely discredit yourself so that absolutely everyone knows that you’re a moron instead of just 99% of us? I believe it was Steve Smith that was laying awkwardly like a female model, and changing diapers in the endzone last year wasn’t it? Those pearls and diamonds come from Pro Bowl appearances. I’m sure Delhomme would rather be put to the ground by Rod Coleman and Patrick Kerney rather than John Abraham, but we’re ok with that too. You’re really reaching now tittybear. Did you notice that you’re the only one making gay comments too? No one else cares. Even if John Abraham was gay, he’s still going to knock the sh*t out of Delhomme, if our other linemen don’t get to him first. Fondle away defense.
By titothebear
July 17, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this
Not much on satire are you StinkyB?
By DIRRTYBIRD
July 17, 2006 06:41 PM | Link to this
No, it just wasn’t funny.
By titothebear
July 17, 2006 06:49 PM | Link to this
It’s alright to say you aren’t perceptive enough to grasp satirical writing. We understand your lack of literary acuity.
By Rufus T. Shyne
July 17, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this
hemmo facon fan
I got to say I agrees wif Mr. thebear. I seen that Abrahams fella and he was looking kindsa sinsiterous wif them hoop in his ear an that necklace on. I believes he was wearin some of Liberaces old hand me downs but he lookeded good in em an he shure goin to hurt sumbody in that clubhous