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Monday, September 24, 2007
Petrino’s Law and Order
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Saying there is a “universal” law in knowing the difference between right and wrong, Falcons coach Bobby Petrino said the team would take disciplinary action against cornerback DeAngelo Hall. for his third-quarter sideline outburst, which followed three penalties that resulted in a Carolina touchdown in the Panthers’ 27-20 victory over Atlanta Sunday.
The sanction was not disclosed and would be handled “in-house,” according to Petrino. A fine, suspension and/or adjusted playing time are possible forms of punishment.
Hall, who was contrite, said he met with Petrino Monday afternoon and said that he would accept whatever discipline was forthcoming. No determination had been made as to what that was but a handful of veteran players were consulted by Petrino.
“It don’t feel good to be the reason your team loses a game,” Hall said. “Whether you give up a touchdown pass or you get a stupid penalty it all feels the same.”
Hall’s penalties stemmed from a verbal feud with Carolina wide receiver Steve Smith. Hall reiterated that he felt that he was singled out by the official near the Carolina bench who called the penalties. Hall added that he never said anything to the official.
Petrino stressed Monday that maintaining poise was one of several elements that needed to improve for the Falcons to snap out of their 0-3 start. Petrino added that he and his staff must dwell on the positives from the Carolina game in order to snap Atlanta out of its funk.
Those positives included quarterback Joey Harrington’s performance (31-44, 361 yards, two touchdowns), the protection by the offensive line and the play of the receivers.
The inability to run the ball or stop the run and breakdowns on special teams, most notably on punt returns, must get better. Petrino wants more out of punt returner Adam Jennings but he also said the blocking of opposing “gunners” needs to improve.
In terms of injuries, starting right cornerback Lewis Sanders suffered a mild concussion and was denied re-entry into the game by the team doctors. Sanders wanted to play but the Falcons’ medical staff exercised caution.
