By hitwriter

August 13, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

I really hope the Special Teams gets it going… More than anyone we may miss Joey D!

By DE Falcon Fan

August 13, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

I am happy with what we saw. True it was a preseason game. True, it was not a hugely powerful Jets Defense. True, we did not have any real pressure to win. However, that is not what I was looking for. I was looking for progress; a team. That is what I saw. Petrino is clearly the right man for this job, and I think he has done a bang up job thusfar. Thanks coach! Joey will be in fine shape once the season starts. He is still learning a complex offense, and will be leading the charge this year. I have no delusions of grandeur, but I think the team is on the right track. Go Falcons!

By Steve Richards

August 13, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Please give Shockley a chance, just because Redmond is from Louisville means nothing. I also wonder why the starting job was just “handed” to Harrington when Shockley has team senority.Besides, what has Harrington done? Nothing, and with better receivers.

By laneywAugusta

August 13, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

I’m glad they lost, I hope they lose all the rest.

By Bob in SF

August 13, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Shock better lock it up; He was all over the place with his passes. I think many, many fans are behind him but he needs to work on the accuracy and associated footwork to be an NFL QB. Laurent Robinson was very impressive. Roddy better hope his meat hooks can latch onto some balls more consistently this year or he might be getting knocked down the chart by Mr. Robinson.

By Dee

August 13, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

How can you really call it a season opener without the Falcons quarterback MIKE VICK. I chose not to participate without Michael Vick on the field. The whole season is really a BLOG.

By Dee

August 13, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

How can you really call it a season opener without the Falcons quarterback MIKE VICK. I chose not to participate without Michael Vick on the field. The whole season is really a BLOG.

By Davis

August 13, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

The offense was not too impressive, and the defense was much worse. Now that Vick is available to spread the defense, Norwood can’t run between the tackles. This is going to be a very long season.

Oh, by the way, Roddy White still can’t catch.

By Dee

August 13, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Really there is no season opener without our quarterback. As far as I am concerned the whole season is a BLOG. I will not be watching any Falcon games without Michael Vick; and the falcons really needs to pray for a winning season without Vick, Dunn & Crumpler. I really hope they lose every game because they are not supporting their teammate like they should.

By Russ

August 13, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

I know how Vick could get out of at least one of the accusations he is facing. If they say he was the one who killed a dog by slamming it to the ground, he could show game film from the last six seasons and they would see that he could never hit the target he was aiming for, even if it was as easy as the ground under his feet.

By Paradise Lost

August 13, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

No Mike Vick….No comments. The team is BORING to watch.

By He's no genius

August 13, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

If Petrino goes with his one-time-a-long-time-ago no-talent hack Redman over D.J. Shockley, he’ll have demonstrated similar decision making ability as Michael Vick and his choice of friends. Terribly flawed, that is.

By Look at this!

August 13, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Where are all concerned falcon fans, there are none, Shockly just need to take some velocity off the ball, I think defense will save our season

By He's no genius

August 13, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

If Petrino goes with his my-guy-one-time-a-long-time-ago no-talent hack Redman over D.J. Shockley, he’ll have demonstrated similar decision making ability as Michael Vick and his choice of friends. Terribly flawed, that is.

By CT

August 13, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Roddy White looked much better as well.

By dale

August 13, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

WE WANT SHOCKLEY!

By Cairo

August 13, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

The kickoff coverage was a sore spot. Special teams coordinator Jerry Rosburg said he was out-schemed, which is a coach taking the hit for his players. I like this statement from our coaching staff. The last regime would NEVER admit to being out coached which happen 85% of the time they were here.

By Clueless

August 13, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

How did Vick play? I can’t wait to see him tear up da bears.

By noneya

August 13, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Long season ahead of us…..

By falcons_braves_hawks

August 13, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

michael vick’s arm strength and scrambling ability would be a perfect fit into petrino’s offense. maybe one day….

By e.b.

August 13, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

I know this is off topic, any way we can collectively get rid of this poor Terrence Moore. He’s been anti-Vick from day one, he adds absolutely nothing to his the AJC. The guy is a major league A-Hole, lets all just avoid his columns completely. You too, Steve.

By Tommy C

August 13, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

I think we need to give D.J. more of an opportunity to show he can runn the offense and move the chains. To that idiot Terrence Moore you haven’t had one good thing to say about Mike Vick since he’s been here so no one expects anything less than the crap you put out.

By steve are you a ga fan?

August 13, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

i mean cmon…shockley is not ready to be even a primary backup. redman looked much much better than shockley did. shockley has a chance but his accuracy has to improve tremendously.

By Custance is better

August 13, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

If Petrino goes with Redman because he was once “his guy,” at Louisville years ago and who has proven to be a truly crappy NFL quarterback, then his choice are no better than Michael Vick’s choice of friends.

By sam

August 13, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

To: Steve Richards —

Please stop your whining about Shockley…he was an OK college QB…a great athlete with below average throwing skills. I hope and think he’ll continue to develop and believe he has some promise as an Anthony Wright type back-up QB.

If you’re really a true Falcons fan and can put your UGA allegiance aside, there’s NO WAY you can possibly really hope he’s our starter this season.

PUH-LEEZE!

By Wes

August 13, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Dee,

Since you will not be watching any Falcon’s games, then there’s really no reason for you to be on the Falcon’s blog…peace out.

By Shockley

August 13, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

My God Shockley’s accuracy will come if you give him the reps and put him in with the first team. I guarantee Harringtion will fold under big game pressure. What big game has he been in. Shockley - SEC title game where he completed six of 12 passes for 112 yards and two touchdowns under some serious duress from a LSU defense loaded with NFL caliber players and would have completed more if not for perfectly thrown dropped passes.

By truthteller

August 13, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Looks like predominantly two groups taking up all the space on this blog today. We have bitter black people who want their boy Vick, no matter what he has done, and no matter he will probably be in jail next 5 years. The other group seems to be the dawg fans who are lobbying for Shockley even though he shows no signs of being a competitive NFL QB, and in fact, looks a little unlikely even to make the team since they just signed a new QB to compete for the 2nd job.

By doobird

August 13, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Can you folks just practice a little patience??? Most all of you care nothing more about the QB position than color (race)!!!! Give it a rest and leave the decisions up to the coaching staff. If you don’t like their decisions then don’t watch the games … hell, what difference does it make if a guy is pink or yellow if he can play the position. Get off the race S—-!!!!

By Boots

August 13, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Dee MV7 said, by his actions and poor judgement, that he had rather hang with his thug homies watching dogs fight than play professional football.

Further, if he had been there, he wouldn’t have played more than one or two series.

Finally, I’m optimistic that the Falcons will rally around Joey and commit to the new coaches, because MV7 is gone for the year —- and probably, will never suit up again as a Falcon.

MV7 tracked dog poop into Mr. Blank’s office and, from what I’ve seen and heard, the front office with take the salary cap hit to rid itself of this distraction.

By mike lowery

August 13, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

honestly the only reason the comissioner is doing what he’s doing is to make other people happy but he got’s to man up and say innocent until proving guilty so mike vick should play unitl they find him guilty if not so be damn

By travis

August 13, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Steve i am a falcons fan, season ticket holder, and bulldog lover, but dj shockley looked like garbage. he was overthrowing, underthrowing receivers. let’s not give out nothing. harrington did win 23 nfl games as a starter, dj has won NONE, so by definition harrington has an edge over dj.

By whhhaaa???

August 13, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Did anyone watch the game? Shockley sucked it up. He wasn’t even great in college.

By Enough

August 13, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

The Falcons are back to being a joke. Without Vick it will set the Franchise back 10 years. They are looking at a Hawks like period and they still haven’t recovered from the Nique trade. But folks, who the heck are the AJC media types and company line quoters fooling. These guys are screwed. The team is trying to save face but to a man they know. Why jeopardize the end of Crumps, Dunn, Horn, Abraham, Brooking and Gandys careers to please PETA. Those guys need to storm Blanks office and tell them to get Vick in here now. They can deal with the few negative folks. Those boos will turn to cheers real fast under Petrino’s system. Any ruling by the NFL before this thing goes to trial will prohibit Vick receiving a fair trail because it will prejudice any jury anyhow. If those guys are real leaders and I know Horn is, they will get MV’s back. Contrary to the media hype, and it will be on display at the GA Dome all season. he already has the FANS support. Most of the negative post are a hand full of guys who already hated Vick any way. This is bull hockey and Vick should be in camp preparing for opening day. Dunn and the boys need to stop the pc nonsense.

By JDogg

August 13, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

I hope “Shock” never becomes the starter for the Falcons….if he does and then the team loses he’ll become the center of this blog’s crazy, senseless, rascist thug commentary..

By btray

August 13, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

NO VICK NO SEASON

By Baller12

August 13, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

I want Vick on the field after the last preseason game or else Andy Reid needs to be suspended as welll….. One would think that if Vick is responsible for his cousins/friends actions at his home then surely Andy Reid is responsible for the actions of his sons smoking dope - am sure Andy gave them the money to buy these drugs, weapon charges - am sure he gave them the money to purchase guns with also, causing an accident and becoming irate with other motorists…….Didn’t those actions bring embarrassment to the NFL and goDdell???? GoDdell is using a double standard in judging players and coaches….Since Vick is responsible for his household then surely Andy Reid is responsible for his…..If Andy isn’t responsible then why is Vick??????????

By Patricia Lawrenceville

August 13, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

I think without Michael Vick it is going to be a long season for the Falcons. No great receivers, the defense is still shabby. What did the Falcons accomplish from the draft? Nothing.

Michael Vick would have been a more accurate passer, if so many of the Falcons receivers could catch. Keith Brookings is not worth the money he is being paid, and DeAngelo Hall is no Deion Sanders. Season ticket holders, please ask for your money back. This season is not worth watching the Falcons.

The Dallas Cowboys will win the Super Bowl this year.

By mrdonut

August 13, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Wake up Atlanta. The Mike Vick experiment is over. Mike flunked out. And the qb rotation is not subject to affirmative action. How about may the best qb win. DJ showed you last Friday night that he was a good college athlete that needs more time to adjust to the pro game. Their’s more to playing qb in the NFL than being able to run around. That’s what you have rb’s for, running around. Lets’ see if Joey and Chris are mobile enuff to avoid the rush and complete the pass downfield. You know, DJ wasn’t picked to backup Vick, Joey was. Hey, Joey played better than a lot of folks expected, as did Chris. Are you a Falcons fan or some other kind of fan?

By Darrin "The Vent King"

August 13, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

I agree with Petrino and that feels weird knowing what the coach is looking for, what he is trying to do, and how close the team came to doing it. We have an uphill battle, but at least the coach is NOT blowing smoke up our rear and is telling it like it was. I REALLY like and appreciate that. Coach Petrino’s focus and actual “coaching” may be the only thing that gets me through this difficult season we have ahead of us. I miss seeing how a “real” coach does his job.

GO FALCONS!!

By Boots

August 13, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

The Vent King is correct!

You have to play the hand your dealt.

Go Falcons!

By Ron Roberts

August 13, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

First off, DJ Shockley didn’t do well. It has nothing to do with the coach being white, he not being so, or Redman having been a Louisville guy. If that were in play, Harrington wouldn’t be atop the becking order, then, would he? I’m a Georgia Bulldog myself and would be damn proud if DJ were our backup, hell even our starting QB, but I’m a realist, and I don’t see things in black and white. I don’t care about the color in the uniform, just the colors on them.

Listen, you bandwagon fans who only jumped aboard because they’re fans of Michael Vick can now get off the bus, alright?

Shut up about Vick. If the season’s over for you, and you refuse to watch, then shut the hell up and go pick another team with a QB of your preferential ethnicity and root for ‘em. You have options. The Titans aren’t far up the road and have Vince Young. Enjoy. Nashville weather is lovely in November/December. Or head down to Jacksonville where the Jags have a starting QB on the hot-seat. Get there quick so you can clamor for him to retain his job over another caucasian backup who only leads the team to wins when he plays.

Now, for the rest of us that are, have been before Vick, and will still be after, fans of the Falcons, let’s continue our discussion.

I was very encouraged by the offensive line and even moreso in Joey Harrington. This team’s a sleeper; you heard it here first.

Maybe we can get all the ‘crunk’ fans to sell their season tickets back (or to real team fans) so more football enthusiasts can enjoy what I have a hunch could be a magical season in the ATL.

By hop

August 13, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

for all of the fans throwing in the towel because MV7 is not the qb,how many winning seasons and playoff games have the falcons won the last few years. how soon we forget.

the falcons have been a very average football team since mv7 has been here. he had some initial success,but the defenses soon caught up with his brand of quarterbacking and he fell apart as a result.

his passing stats were awful and it cost the falcons many opportunities to win.

joey is no answer either nor is dj at this stage in his career.

our only hope is getting a high pick in 2008 and selecting a top pick and drafting a real qb with it.

By RunC

August 13, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

I have been a Falcon fan forever. I have never been so down about about a season. The game Friday night made it even worse. If Harrington was so good why didn’t the other two teams keep him? I am not a Georgia fan but I agree give DJ a shot. We already know that the other two QB’s are retreads. If Vick is guily of the charges he will be dealt with. Regardless I miss #7 and the electricity that he brings.

By Hopelessly Lost

August 13, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

Hey, I’m feeling you Dee. This season is a BLOG. Who wants to buy my season tickets? I’m in Section 128. No MIke Vick means No fans rocking the GA Dome. We are going start looking like the Hawks.

By skip

August 13, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Are you people Falcons fans or Vick disciples? I love Vick, but ya’ll act like Vick can play all the positions by himself. It’s 52 other players out there and its called a team people!!! If ya’ll jumping off the Falcons band wagon because of one man not being there, then you couldn’t have been a true Falcons fan or football fan. Stop and think, what if Vick got hurt and lost for the season , I guess you just give up on the season too. Let’s rally behind what we have now!! Vick is a grown man, let stop with the baby pampering. He had a 100 millions reasons to be the face of the NFL/Falcons. I hope he gets off and comes back with vengeance, but he’s not here so lets go what we’ve got right now on this team. If the team can rally and move on, we as fans should move on until further notice. On a regular job, you can stop work because Mike/Jane is not there. Work and life must goes on. This is the first exhibition game, the running backs are deep, with O.M. blocking Snelling on 3rd/4th and short, we should have higher first down ratio. 1st team O-line look good, back-up D-line ok in 1st half, still need help opposite of D-Hall, LB’s deep too. DJ Shock, I say wait until he gets a chance to run with the 1st or 2nd team. Anyone would look bad with 3rd team. And we have a coach that can actually call unpredictable plays. We got three more games to play folks, we know who the starters are going to be, these games are to see what kind of dept the team has just in case of an injury or a legal case comes up with another player. Vick still the man!! But another man has to step in until Vick gets his life together. LET”S GO FALCONS!! KEEP VICK (HOPE) ALIVE!! WHERE MY REAL FALCONS/FOOTBALL FANS AT!!!!!!!

By NASCARfan

August 13, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

Wow… I can already tell by the posts on here that most of you oviously didn’t watch the game, don’t know a damn thing about the actual game of football, or both.

What I want, is for all y’all bandwagon fans who are nothing but Mike Vick Apologists to please either sh!t or get off the GD pot, okay?

Either this is going to be your team, or you can go back to being Cowboy fans, or 49er fans, or fans of whatever team you pretended to be loyal to before Vick came here. Guess what, I liked Vick, too! And I apologized for him from the beginning. How could you not want to for a guy with that kind of talent? but after reading every single page of that indictment, no more… no more.

But this is MY team. And if you refuse to support the team because of ONE player, well, then you have a lot more in common what the selfish piece of dog-killing garbage than you realize. Obviously, Vick cared about his team and his teammates as much as you bandwagon fans do.

So sh!t or get off the pot, PLEASE!!!

And if you choose to get off the pot, then stop coming around here. Leave, go away. Go b!tch on the Cowboys board. They have a player on that team who you can embrace, a player with an me-first attitude very similar to Vick’s.

God, you people suck. And you’re dumb as posts, too.

And as much I love the Falcons, I love the Dawgs more… BUT ENOUGH OF THE SHOCKLEY FOR STARTER WHINING!!!!

ENOUGH!!! How about you let him prove what he can do? And if he proves he deserves to be No. 2, he’ll be No. 2. But I think after watching Joey Harrington play a quarter, that we’re in good hands with Harrington. Just a couple of names to think about: Brad Johnson, Rich Gannon, Steve Young, Vinnie Testerverde, Trent Dilfer, Kurt Warner, and Ken Stabler. All of those guys were written off as wash ups, busts, or even some never weres. They all went on to help there teams to either make or win a Super Bowl.

Football history is replete with reclamation successes, so people, don’t be so stupid as to write off Harrington. Believe it or not, coaching has a lot to do with how a Quarterback turns out.

Morons… the lot of you bandwagon people.

By Green

August 13, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

I would just like to point out that the last two seasons were very “long”. I don’t see why so many people think that the season will be any longer than the last. Sure, we don’t have a 1,000 yard scrambler anymore, but it seems like the same people who wanted Vick gone last year are the ones who so desperately want him on the field despite the overwhelming evidence. Now the rest of his friends are turning on him so there is no hope.

For this team my expectations are not too high especially with a new QB and coaching staff. But I don’t see any reason why we can’t at least match our record of last season. Then if by some possibility we could get Vick back by next season, I think are chances of making Super Bowl are much better. But even if we can’t get Vick, our offense should be much improved after a season of Coach Petrino’s complex system.

By A--ville Ranger

August 13, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

These two defendants pleading guilty today mean there are now three convictions proving dog fighting on Vick’s property.If that doesn’t add up to conduct detrimental to the team and league I don’t know what would.He should lose all money remaining on his contract and never be allowed to play in the NFL again…ever.

By tyger

August 13, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Falcons look like the Detroit Lions

It’s still very early but there was no sense of excitement from the team posing as the Falcons. There was no awe, no shock, nothing, very boring and drab, very high school-ish.

I hate that Vick isnt there, and it is his own fault, I admit that, but theyve got to do better. I know most Georgians want a White QB, but this isnt going to cut it.

Its going to be a long long season.

By Tom H

August 13, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

LET IT GO, VICK APOLOGISTS!

Buh-bye Vick. Oh my, ALL THREE of his lifetime home boys and co-defendants have pled guilty now and are going to cooperate and provide first-person testimony implicating Vick in the felony of dog fighting and gambling. Stick the largest fork you can find in him, Vick is DONE as a professional athlete. He wants street cred? He’s about to get it with a couple years of hard time in a federal penitentiary. Perhaps he will get a facial tattoo to commemorate the experience like Tyson did.

Clearly you apologists are not Falcons fans, you are Vick fans. Falcons are better off without you, so buh-bye to you, too.

By bob

August 13, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

First off I am white, so no racial crap about my comment…

Why can’t Vick be our Barry Bonds??? How is it that Bonds gets an inquiry by the feds and gets to play while Vick is forced away from the game?

Any Falcon ditchers are more than welcome at the Tech games. Takin’ the ACC again this year.

By pronggod

August 13, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

Shockley….plz….get over this chump dream. He has ZERO chance of ever being a real NFL quarterback. God it’s like Quincy Carter all over again. And look where he ended up. Find me a UGA quarterback in recent years who could even whiff an endzone with consistency and you’ll make a believer out of me. UGA makes a lot of good professionals….QB’S ain’t one of them. Size, Arm, Mobility…you can have those…give me a winner like a Brady, Stabler, christ even Plunkett one a Super Bowl…but for as bad as this season has started thanks to Mr Vick..don’t delude yourself into thinking Shockley is anything other than a 3rd string quarterback on a hometown team. Shockley…yea that’s what we need!!!!

By 1st and 6

August 13, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

I’ts too soon to make an opinion. This need at least two more games to have an idea.

By The Grinch

August 13, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the Falcons’ mediocrity the past few seasons was Vick’s fault; far from it. Face it, folks; the previous coaching regime was HORRIBLE. We now have what I predict will be a most excellent staff. Would Vick thrive here now? Absolutely; we’d be the most exciting team in the NFL. Is Vick here? NO. Therefore, we move on and deal with what we’ve got. It’s gonna take another 2-3 years to get the proper players in place to fit this system completely. With Joey at the helm, our mediocrity will help us draft higher to help that out (not to mention give us better trade pieces to land a franchise QB). In the past, it’s always been “same old Falcons.” I honestly think we’ve finally got the coach to put this team near or at the top, and I’m willing to cheer on a couple of 7-9, 8-8 seasons to get there. I have faith.

By joey1fan

August 13, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Hello SHOCKLEY FANS?????????

He may not of played with the first string offense but he DID play against the 3RD team DEFENSE!

Vick fans go back to being criminals and Shockley fans get your head out of your arse!

By Big Bull

August 13, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

In `10 years, Vick will be driving a fork lift somewhere. He’s as gone from Atlanta as Brett Favre! Forget about him and move on. Us fans should be rallying behind Joey whether you think he’s the man or not.He wouldn’t be where he is if he weren’t a great athlete! A little positive reinforcement is good for everyone.

By A--ville Ranger

August 13, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

Give Petrino a chace people.I posted well before he was hired that the only reason I might not hire him would be that our personel wouldn’t be a good match for him.He wasn’t just successful everywhere he went he fielded one of the top two or three offenses in the ncaa.He acomplished this without ever having a top twenty recruiting cless.Look at what he did at Auburn,in one season he added fourteen points a game with the same players.He has NFL experience and his schemes are NFL ready.As for who he plays at QB,it will be the one he thinks gives the best chance to win.I’ll take his judgement on this or your’s or mine.

By Phar71

August 13, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

How is John Abraham looking, I dont remember reading anything about his health/condition?

By Jet Lee 7

August 13, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Honestly, MV put himself in this situation. Why can’t people be objective and see the truth. I am not saying if he is innocent or guilty because that has to be determined by the courts. We do not have all the facts and evidence to make any judgment against him. However, we in the Atlanta community have turned a blind eye when it comes to MV. Please understand that it was MV who decided to hang with people that were in trouble with the law on a regular basis. From my understanding, the Falcons past two coaches, Reeves and Mora, warned MV to be careful of his of friends. I grew up in a community similar to Vick in Southeast Atlanta, and I know about these so-called friends. I understand that you want to stay in touch with these friends because they have been around since elementary. But I had to face facts that they were trouble and would bring me down in a matter of time. That’s what we are seeing right now. I truly believe that another one of his so-called friends will accept a plea and testify against MV. So my question is why are people are blaming the Falcons and the NFL for his decisions? What are the Falcons and the NFL supposed to do? They have to move on for the city and the entire league. There needs to be an understanding that the NFL and a franchised like the Falcons are similar to major corporations, the music and movie industries in that all are about making money and satisfying customers.

In addition, it bugs me when people around town and on this board state that we are going to have a bad season. Look at the two previous seasons: 2006 Season: 7 (Won) – 9(Lost) and 2005 Season: 8(Won) – 8(Lost). Many act as if we had a stellar record for the past two seasons. The stats speak for themselves. I clearly remember before each of these two seasons that everyone stated that we were going further into the playoffs and had a chance at the Super Bowl. IT DID’NT HAPPEN. I might be wrong, but this season will be long and the Falcons will probably do no worse than last season. I glad that the Falcons are making a change and hopefully it will work for them. I agree with another post, MV has had his chance. He has been in the NFL, a Falcon for six years. He has started and completed four seasons (02, 04, 05, & 06) (In 2001 he played eight games, and in 2003 because he was injured only played five games). The Falcons even bought in Stevie Young to help him and still could not produce. It’s time for them to move on.

By Roswell Ed

August 13, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

If the other three agree you must cop a plea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By DLT

August 13, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

People, y’all out there frettin’ over quaterbacks’ none of which is worth spit. The real deal is that for most preseasons there is real sense of optimism about the prospects for the home team. This year we know the team is going be as bad as most Falcon teams have been prior to 1998, and we know it before the season even starts!

By Randall

August 13, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

To truly evaluate Shockley this season, Petrino has to get him into the game with some starters, or at the very least, second string. He rushed his throws because he had no protection…he was throwing to…who? i can’t even remember most of their names because it was the first I had seen or heard of them…and then dropped passes killed him. He did overthrow a couple of times because he was rushed, but I think working with the first or second unit would give him an opportunity to show what he can do. Even Peyton Manning can’t throw without protection

By Boots

August 13, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

I said several weeks ago that while Vick could afford a sound defense, the other co-conspirators would be hung out to dry and the only way out would be for them to cop a plea and turn on Vick.

It looks like the homies have turned on the Man. It’s survival man.

This will go down as one of the saddest situations I’ve ever seen and I’m an ol’ dude. A young man with such promise, chucking it all to hang with a bunch of thugs who by any definition are losers.

This is truly sad for all parties concerned, but it’s all about bad choices and poor judgement.

By ATL4Life

August 13, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Are you a Vick fan or a Falcon fan? I was a Falcon fan growing up in Atlanta before a Vick fan. Though I always cheered for the Falcons, I didn’t choose to become a season ticket holder until we drafted Vick. When Vick is having his game, he is electifying to watch — similiar to Tiger Woods. Football is a team sport, but MV7 is one of those rare athletes that could win (or lose) a game by himself. Yes, I would love to see Vick back on the field in a Falcons jersey, but I would rather see the Falcons, as a team, win a championship. Anybody remember the excitement from seeing the birds in the Super Bowl a few years ago? It reminded of the Braves in the early 90s. That being said, Vick brought me (and so many others) to the Dome, but a winning Falcons team (no matter who is under center) will keep me here. Let’s support the team…

Go Birds!

By rlynn

August 13, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Harrington is a definite upgrade at QB. This should be an interesting season instead of another no-talent MV7 ego fest. MV7 would have been a great kick returner.

By Fred G. Sanford

August 13, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

All you Vick apologists make me sick…you are truly nothing but racists! You only support him because of his skin color. If Vick was a cracker, you would be riding him out of town on a rail. Newsflash..he ain’t coming back. Plus your boy Shockley looked like a girl on Friday night. He is not ready for prime time. Harrington did not look that bad for the first game. The pre-season means absolutely NOTHING. The Colts were 1-3 in pre-season last year with that disgusting WHITE QB Manning. You know the one who studies game film and the one who talks to his receivers during the game..the one who is smart enough to call audibles at the line. Yeah..that one!! Vick is a washed-up THUG and now all the other thuggies have turned on him it will be prison time. Vick better get some practice for being someone’s beyotch.

By D. Dean

August 13, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

First off let me say im black so forget all the racial stuff. Im a real football fan, Vick has done so exciting thing with the rock. He did what no other team did by beating Greenbay in the super cold and in the playoff.Its true one man doesnt make the whole team. I see everyone blaming vick for this and that. I also watch every game where it was sunday or monday night game. I seen on many sundays that when he did throw a perfect pass it was drop. Like I watch the game friday night drop by falcon recievers. Vick isnt toally all at fault here. Remember when white was all down field by himself and drop a perfect pass and mora drop to his knees. I cant but help but to feel sorry for vick and the coaching staff and the defence. Falcon recievers suck plain and simple. Now the new guy that rookie they have can catch.He should be starting with horn. Im not sold on Joey (sorry). Its going to be a long season and thats for sure.As for Vick,he should have known better being a grown man with all that money.Im not a dog lover so dont even think it.Its funny if the Peta or whatever they are was to protest about this war we are in wonder would the troops be coming home right now.I favor human rights anyday of the week over animal rights.Sorry folks we come first,you know man-kind.

By GA Native

August 13, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Not too bad for the first outing however, special teams gave up too much ground on kick returns and open field tackling was poor giving up more ground. Redman looked rusty and DJ needs more coaching before he is ready to take the wheel. It was nice to see the first team offense score but the defense got suckered on a few screens and big passing plays. There were a couple of new faces that need to be watched for their receiving and running progress (19).

Compared to Mora, Petrino is boring to watch on the sidelines. I guess he was to busy coaching and doing his job instead of kissing his coach killing quarterback and high fiving everyone including the water boy.

At this point, my opinion is that the quarterback lineup is set unless DJ can get his passing game down pat. If Mora would have coached him instead of wasting a year as the other teams QB he would be a lot further along, lots of talent that needs grooming (good coaching) into a NFL starter! Give him time and bring him along the right way!

I’ll root for Coach (Boring to watch) Petrino and see what he does with the QB corp.

By McDonoughDawg

August 13, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Huge Dawg fan here. I hope Shock can win the #2 job, but if he starts, I’ll be SHOCKED….Harrington gives them a shot to win now.

To all the folks wanting Vick, I only ask why? Give it up, he’s a goner.

By Blaze

August 13, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

I really liked what I saw! For the 1st time in years the Falcons and the coaching staff looked like a professional football team, not a bunch of hoods with a “dog killer” as their leader! I hope Vick never returns, he is a loser on and off the field!

By SC

August 13, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Patricia Lawrenceville, you don’t even know how to spell the last name of one of the stars on the team! Some expert! Then you claim to know the outcome of the Super Bowl … What are the next winning numbers for Mega Millions? LOL

By Daryl

August 13, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

All the white folks who hate Vick are racist. It is so oblious. I played college football and I know a great deal about the game. If anyone can set there and claim that Harrinton and Redmon are better quarterbacks than Vick or Shockley, can’t be anytime but racist. There is no comparison.These racists only want a white quarterback. That’s oblious in the fact that they now are trying to ridicule and attack Shockley. True bigots. Shockley, in friday’s game, was operating under a third-sting offensive line. A dis- advantage Harrington and Redmon didn’t have to contend with. What Terrence Moore don’t get, is the fact that us Vick supporter see racist as the true issue here. When we see rednecks and small-minded people, like that congressman from California, trying to cruxify a good black man by measuring out more punishment than the crime calls for, it really insense our disdain. Oh, one more thing. Arthur Blank will never have a Super Bowl team because no player will ever respect such a person for not standing up for his players. Truth me!

By midnite

August 13, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Well now that all of Vicks boys are going to roll over on him, will you few supporters open your freaking eyes and see reality. If Mike would have come clean and admitted his guilt he would probably be in Flowery Branch now. He has never accepted responsibility for his actions whether it was on the field for poor play, or the numerous off field issues. He really screwed up by lying to Commissioner Goodell on Draft Day 2007 about the allegations. But the mother of all his mistakes was standing up the Congress of The United States. How stupid can this man be. GO BIRDS!

By Will

August 13, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Evidently all you Shock fans wasn’t watching the same game. For some reason you think he did something worthy of being at least number 2 on the depth chart and many think number 1. Come on. You can’t be serious based on what he did. Granted he played with the second and third string offense but the jets also had second and third string defense on the field. Wake up. Give credit to the starting offensive team in the first three series. The did score against the Jets first string defense. I saw some very positive things. Granted they may not be playoff caliber at this point but they seem to have an idea of what needs to be done on the field. Execution comes with repitition. Give it time.

By Bobby Cocks

August 13, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Roddy White’s problem can’t be cured by coaching. It’s much more mental than physical at this point. It’ll likely follow him throughout his career, if he has one left…

I feel sorry for the guy myself.

By Doc Reem

August 13, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks Shock is not a good quarterback is way off the mark. This guy haas the intangibles that cannot be taught and he is a great leader and can make plays when his out there with first teamers. I think alot of you guys are forgeting that Shockley was the number one or two rated quarterback in the country coming out of high school. He was a first team parade-all american. So don’t act like the guy has no skills.

By NorthCarolinaFalconFan

August 13, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

There is a big difference between a Falcons fan and a Vick fan. A Falcons fan was there before Vick and will continue to be there after.

By terrell

August 13, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

BIGBULL, I hate to tell you, but VICK will never have to work again. Now he might own the business that you and your cousins drive the forklifts at, but he wont be working. Even if he’s convicted hell be back in the league. The kid has too much talent. One conviction will not grant a lifetime ban. Yall are living in a fantasy land.

By Rod

August 13, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Lubby Smith, we have a great prospect down here in Atlanta and his name is DJ Shockley. I think Chicago would be a great place for Shockley. Patrino has put him behind the 8ball from the beginning. Im white and I dont support Vick but there are a lot racist Atlanta Falcon fans in this state.

By Mike

August 13, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

I think the offense looked pretty good for a first preseason game. Jenkins, White, Robinson, and Blakely looked pretty good recieving. I was impressed with Snelling. Harrington did not look bad. Shock made good decisions, but seemed to be off target a bit (however that could be because he was throwing to third team recievers and they weren’t running correct routes). I want DJ to eventually take the Falcons, but I do believe that Harrington gives them the best chance to win right now. One positive with all 3 qbs was the pocket awareness. The D needs to improve some. The line looked ok (will be better when Rod returns). LB’s ok as well…D Williams needs to get back soon. I was disappointed with Jimmy Williams, he seemed to be a little to cautious…which doesn’t go with the safety position. I would like to see him hit like he was a couple of years ago in college. Special teams which used to be one of the teams biggest strengths really needs to improve. Jennings had a good night returning kicks…but our punt coverage was horrible. We still have 3 more weeks to get ready for the season. I think this is a rebuilding year for Atlanta….it is encouraging to see the young talent this team has though.