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DEL.ICIO.USBush questionable, big plays still a concern
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Falcons spend a lot of time discussing the allowance of “explosive plays,” which are plays where the opposition gains more than 15 yards. The emphasis on limiting such big hits has been driven home even more this week because the Falcons have been outscored 90-36 over the past three games, in large part because they’ve been tagged for several huge gains in their previous three games, all losses.
Atlanta could be catching somewhat of a break in that regard for its game against New Orleans Monday night. Saints TB Reggie Bush did not practice Friday and ESPN is reporting that he could have a torn knee ligament that could end his season. Bush has been listed as questionable by Saints coach Sean Peyton.
Though Bush’s absence could eliminate a major threat, the Saints can still strike with some big plays, particularly through the air. Falcons coach Bobby Petrino said Friday that Atlanta needs to get quick and heavy pressure on quarterback Drew Brees so he will make shorter throws. He added that coverage must be tight and disciplined.
The Falcons also need to keep tabs on wide receiver Devery Henderson. Henderson, while rather non-descript, has burned the Falcons the past three times they’ve played, scoring twice on passes and once on a reverse.
Petrino added that the offense has to be able to counter some of the other team’s scores. Atlanta is second only to San Francisco in scoring (171 points) and next to last in offensive touchdowns (15).
In an attempt to get more points, backup tailback Jerious Norwood is going to get more touches, Petrino said, in the passing and running games. The offensive line could be tweaked some too. Right guard Kynan Forney is back in the starting lineup after missing the past two games with a sinus infection and a non-injury related deactivation, respectively.
D’Anthony Batiste, who replaced Forney, is taking some reps at left guard, which has been held down by rookie Justin Blalock all season. Blalock has struggled and he could be hitting the rookie wall. There is no word on who will start vs. the Saints.
On the injury front, RT Tyson Clabo (left ankle) returned to practice today and he should be ready for Monday night. Backup FS Antoine Harris (left knee) made progress but he might not be ready to play against the Saints. Lewis Sanders would be part of the nickel defense package if Harris is out. Jimmy Williams could be inactive for the second straight game.
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By supporter
December 7, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
i think they can win
By me
December 7, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
Reggie Bush, is the Eric Metcalf of this generation.
By StlFalcon
December 7, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
I hope last week’s 4th quarter was the beginning of something good. Redman never really got a chance in Baltimore, and nobody has ever played quarterback well for them. I’ll take being a respectable opponent over a high draft pick any day.
By Falcons 101
December 7, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
If the Falcons could just avoid PENALTIES….every long gainer is nulified by a penalty. Is this a coaching problem? NO blocking in the back or clips or facemasks, etc. Good Grief.
By uga_b
December 7, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this
So what is the deal with Jimmy Williams? He may not be a starter but there is no way he is not good enough to be active. Discipline? Another Petrino ego trip?
By Rick
December 7, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this
I have to think, What if? If DJ Shockley had not blown out his knee , this could have been the chance for him to earn a job as starting QB in the NFL. You know that next year they are going to draft or trade for “DA Man”. They have to solidify that position and quick. DJ may not have a chance to be nothing but a back up again as the Falcons are going to go shopping for a starter.And no, dog fans David Greene is not the answer, God knows he doesn’t even know the question.Leftwich can’t play, he proved that for 4 years in Jax. Harrington.. well nuff said. Neither one of those guys will be in a Falcon uniform next year. Oh well ,there is always next year.
By Rick
December 7, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this
UGA_b…….Jimmy Williams is a bust , he cannot play at the NFL level. He is one of hundreds who look great in college and never made the next level. A lot of college Players think that they can come to NFL and make it on talent alone. Wrong, they have to practice, study, work hard and wok out.They do not accept the idea that it has to be approached as a profession. You have to work harder than the next guy or he will have your job.
Short answer…Bust. Mora saw it and Petrino see’s it.
By Rick
December 7, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
Remember, Williams was drafted as corner, they had so much faith in him they got David Irons and the rookie was has been starting opposite D-Hall