Falcons

By Corky

December 11, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

JASON GARRETT

By AJCfanatic

December 11, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

MARTY SCHOT!!! GREAT TIMING PETRINO YOU BUM!

By mountain_jim

December 11, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

Arthur sure can get lied to his face by employees he’s paying millions. That’s gotta sting.

Saves 2 years of proving Petrino was the wrong hire for a Vickless future. Plus several things he’s done and said this year he was a weasel who would not take responsibility for his own mistakes.

By Herschel Talker

December 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

This is worse than Saban. Petrino lied to Blank YESTERDAY. What a piece of trash. Now we have another reason to hate Arkansas besides Bill Clinton.

By Wyllycoyote

December 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

Why bother? Not just us fans, but his family. Did he just need some free clothes?

By popcornular

December 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

Loser team, loser town. Good for you, Bobby.

By Edd

December 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

Better get another Vick or Deion to put ” The Fans In The Stands “!!! Of course a “TOP Name Coach ” will do the same ! No College coach crap ! Thats why they coach college ! Build a Team, They will come !!!!!!!!!

By A Falcons fan walks into a bar. . . .

December 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t need to trust Arthur Blank. I need to see a legitimate professional football team on the field that is worth the value of my hard earned money that I hand over.

Is this the worst season ever? Probably not. Next season should be even worse. At least Blank got the season ticket money for this year. Next year…not so much.

Bring back Dan Reeves. No one else wants to coach this group of clowns without MV7. Funny how Petrino bolts the day after he finds out that Vick is definitely not coming back. Smart man.

By bocabrave

December 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

This is a real opportunity-the first since the Smiths let Don Shula go to the Dolphins. Hire Cowher. Give him total control. Fire MacKay. Give Cowher a 10 year contract. NOW. A chance to get a proven head coach-GO GET HIM ARTHUR!!!!No more amateurs like Mora and Petrino.

By LastStraw!

December 11, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Get a proven Pro Coach! Forget the college guys! Petrino left because pro players DO NOT RESPECT HIM!! Petrino and Saban both suck! He’s a quitter. Blank doesn’t know what the hell he’s doing. Fire Rich McKay while you’re at it!!!

By d-man

December 11, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

What a great opportunity Arthur Blank has now. With no coach, no QB, no offensive line, and, after last night, apparently no defense either, this is the perfect time TO DISBAND THIS PERENNIAL LOSER. Fire all these clowns, give them a gift card to Home Depot, turn the Dome into a homeless shelter, and shut this mother down now!!!

By mj

December 11, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Everyone would love Cowher, so would I. Lets just say John Fox is gone out of Carolina. What a coach! Garrett from the Cowboys! Got to get someone with NFL background. My choice? Dan Reeves as GM and let him make the decision. The only time Falcon football made sense is when he ran the show!!

By sqd

December 11, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

The Atlanta Journal armchair coaches are part of the reason he left I am sure. Noone gave the guy a chance, and you are all willing to give a dope smoking sadistic animal abuser all the benefit of the doubt..even when he flipped the bird to the poor fans who helped pay his huge ridiculous contract!

I can’t blame him one bit—the spoiled rotten whiney players wth all their expensive cars and earrings…make me sick….

By David C

December 11, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

I would have quit too. Bunch of punks on this team. Vick ain’t free but Petrino is! Congrats coach.

By the ritz blitz

December 11, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

it can’t get any worst then this…who would want to coach this mess..good luck to all…Ted Turner might be available

By Malcolm

December 11, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Arthur Blank never lost my trust. The folks who howl about the Falcons under Arthur Blank’s ownership obviously weren’t here for when the Smiths owned the team. Arthur simply put too many off his eggs in one basket (Vick), but he did it with the best of intentions and he brought a lot of excitement to the Falcons. They’ll be back, because he is committed to bringing a quality product to the field.

By Thrash

December 11, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

This gets better & funnier every day!

By Unknown Fan

December 11, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Move the Falcons to Alaska and implode the Dome.

By popcornular

December 11, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

by the way, why is it so darn easy to lie to Arthur Blank Stare and get away with it?

By CTim

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Are you friggin kiddin me? Hire another colleg coach? When will you people out there wake up? THE ONLY SUCCESSFUL COACHES IN THE NFL HAVE PRIOR SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE! Hello, Dungy, Holmgren, Payton, Mangini, Whisenhunt, Tomlin, Lovie Smith, on and on. If you don’t hire a coach who has already played, or better yet, coached there, you’re wasting your time. If Holmgren leaves in Seattle, get him. If Reid becomes available in Philly, get him, and bring McNabb with you. Call Cowher. Call Parcells. Call Grimm and Riviera. But DO NOT BRING ANOTHER SORRY A.S.S. COLLEGE COACH IN HERE! The pro game is too far different. I’d even take Schottenheimer over another college clown.

By Adam

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Chan Gailey!! hahaha

…or bring back Jim Mora Jr.!!!

By Dwight

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

MIKE SINGLETARY BILL COWER OR BRING BACK DAN REEVES.

THAT’S THE SHORT LIST!!!!!!!!

By td

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

We need leadership in our next coach. We need toughness. We need character.

WE NEED MIKE SINGLETARY.

By joebrave

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Good job Bobby P.,get out ,no wait GET OUT and STAY OUT!!!! Bring on Marty Schottenheimer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And don’t even go asking Santa for the return of MV7,no way no how!!!!!

What a glorious day for the Falcons!!!!

By MP

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Worst season so far (I have seen every one of them). Arthur needs to get the best pro OC or DC today that’s considered the next head coach. To hell with looking at college coaches. I think those days are over for all NFL teams. Marty or the tuna won’t be around long enough to do what this franchise needs (the same coach for 5 years)

By Steamboat

December 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Guess that makes Mora correct that Vick was a coach killer.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 11, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

By the way, I would like to point out right now that there is one good sports team in Atlanta. They are currently playing a game in Philips Arena, and the game is being televised on SportSouth. All hope is not lost.

By Kim

December 11, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

Patrino SUCKS!!!! What a way to screw someone! Wait unitil the last two games of the season…how professional! My 1 month old son can coach better!

By woodman

December 11, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

The Dogs don’t have Ark on the schedule next year. Too bad, I would like to go to the game and throw #### at him.

By sick&tired

December 11, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

Does this surprise me? Hardly. As a long time, frustrated, Falcon fan, I have seen the Smith family run the franchise into the ground, then watch, with great hope, as Blank took over. Then Vick. Now Petrino. Does it ever end? I think not - who do I root for now in Loserville!!!!!!!!!!!!! What god did we p** oof?

By Make it Better

December 11, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

AJCfanatic — good call!
Marty ball sounds pretty darned good!!!

By WIN

December 11, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

* I HAVE TWO NAMES, MIKE SINGLETARY*

By MP

December 11, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Damn d-man I have to say your idea is not too bad.

Cowher would be great, Marty, Dan or the Tuna are too old.

Need someone who can build it over the next 5 years.

One thing is for sure, Jim Mora Jr and Sr are laughing their butts off!

By Bring Da Noise

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Petrino is a jumper andI say GOOD RIDDANCE! He’ll never win like Nutt did anyway. Bring on Cowher & McKa has gotta go!

By nativefalcon

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher woul dbe good but I bet he stays in carolina to coach carolina, because I bet Fox is going to get canned. Marty Schottenheimer would be a good pick he got 3 different teams to playoffs and got screwed by the chargers and they haven’t been good since. Lastly GET BACK DAN REEVES the best falcons coach ever anf DUMP RICH MCKAY. He can go with Petrino.

By GA_TIGER

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

LastStraw, it’s pro football that sucks not the college coachs. I personally don’t know why any good college football coach would want to leave for the NFL! Nothing but a bunch of overpaid, egomaniacs. College football rules!

By Jeff Van Note

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher is a dream choice. Wasn’t Chan Gailey an old offensive coordinator of his - early slash days

By Section102

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Petrino is slimy. Didn’t we suspect this after the Auburn debacle! Sorry Arkansas, you’re next.

By Big Al

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t blame the coach leaving after what Hall has said about him. The entire organization needs to be cleaned out and start over. I feel sorry for Blank but he hired Mora and the GM and the players so he has to look at himself to fix this situation.

By JJ

December 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Alex! Danny Heatley killed another human (hockey player) & there are plenty of baseball players on the JUICE. Your a dumb azz. Just don’t comment every again on the blog because you sound stupid!

By KO

December 11, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

BILL COWHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Terry

December 11, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

The best thing that could happen is that Artie sells the team, the new owners fire all the players, ans start with quality human beings in all postions; whoops we’re talking about the nfl, it won’t happen. There are no quality human beings left in the nfl at least not enough to staff a pro team. Artie needs to go, period; and then maybe we can have a team again not filled with criminals and bad players.

By Shannon from Chattanooga

December 11, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

Please no more coaching experiments. Please get a coach that has a track record of HEAD coaching success in the NFL. We need someone that commands respect, and is alloted the time to build a champion from the ground up (Both sides of the line). I’m tired of the electric players (Human Highlight player). Give us a Super Bowl winning TEAM.

By Tony Dwiggins

December 11, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Go Bobby —— and take the Falcons with you!

By mack73

December 11, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Karma is a b—ch Mr.Blank. That’s what you get about that chicken comment you made about Vick last night on national tv. Even the coach does’nt want to be here without MV7. Do everybody a favor and cancel all the games for the next 2 years til MV7 returns!!!!LOL

By royjones

December 11, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Give me a break with this quote:

Brian Daniels, president of Louisville’s Atlanta Alumni Club said, “I’m just absolutely floored.

“I really believe he came here to coach the best athlete in football. I think he was just at a point where he’d had enough. You can’t blame a man for wanting to drive a Porsche and being handed a Cadillac.”

The guy was getting paid millions of dollars a year to build a winning professional football team. He’s not someone paying money for a chance to enjoy himself.

He walked away when things got a little tough. Tells you everything you need to know about him. The Falcons are lucky he walked instead of wasting another two or three years with him.

By kj

December 11, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Live & learn Arthur & the rest of the world!. When you ask someone a question that they don’t won’t to give a correct answer to—-they tell a lie. Later they will try & clean it up, but initially, they lie. I feel bad for Mr. Blank because I think he is a {or tries to be} honest…but in business, especially sports, people lie…just like the Falcons told Grady Jackson, no hard felings, then cut him. Just a circle of lying & reaping what you sew. Everyone reading this message… pray for forgiveness…Thanks

By Salt

December 11, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Get a real pro coach.

Give him a couple of years to build his team.

Hire a Hollywood publicist.

Start planting touching stories about Vick in prison.

“Michael Vick’s dramatic prison transformation, tonight on Sports Center.”

Get Vick on Entertainment Tonight working out in the prison yard.

Get Regis and Kelly to do a remote broadcast.

The day he gets out of prison, get him on Oprah.

Let him come to camp as a safety/ kick returner.

“Tonight, the Dramatic Return of Mike Vick: Yes, Al, the people here at the sold-out Georgia Dome are divided. Cheers among the boos, they are here to witness THE GREATEST COMEBACK IN THE HISTORY OF SPORTS!”

It’s all entertainment; might as well sell some tickets.

Love to all.

By Falcon Freddie

December 11, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Wait a minute,Petrino, He LIED to the Owner…Where’s the wrath for his lies. Oh, I forgot, that’s just business. It’s okay when “business men lie to each other”. When players lie, they are called dirty names. Well Falcons fans, what goes around, comes around. You finally got what you wanted an articulate, drop back passer, with the “corporate image” that you yearned for. All I saw was about 72,000 empty seats by the middle of the forth quarter. Happy now? Where does the line start to buy season tickets? Maybe if we asked him really nicely, Jim Mora Jr. would come back and bring his cell phone with him.

By ED

December 11, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

This is a very good time for Arthur Blank to sell the Falcons.

By JD

December 11, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Hmmm… a few things: -No back-to back winning seasons in 40+ years -121 games under .500 as a franchise -Fire Reeves after he takes Falcons to Super Bowl a few years earlier with Chandelier at QB -Trade #1 pick (LT) for Vick -1 player in HOF -Drafted Farve and then got rid of him (although it is known that this probably made Farve what he is) -In worst division in history of NFL (Saints, Bucs and Panthers- terrible teams historically) and can’t win it regularly. -Moron owner who pushes Vick around in a wheelchair and looks like a fool last night on MNF bragging about Falcons and Petrino.

Petrino: -Tried to leave Louisville for Auburn (secret visit, etc.) and then signed 10-year $25M contract -Leaves for Falcons the next season after giving Louisville back-to back 10 win and top 10 finishes -Leaves Falcons.

I bet Petrino goes to “greener pastures” in 3-4 years after he gets “entrenched” at Arkansas.

Both got what they deserved

By John

December 11, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Blow the whole thing up. Get rid of Hall and the rest of the thugs, get what draft choices you can for them, and hire a strong head coach, like Cowher.

Give him full control to run a team that stays in line, not one based on a bunch of individual thugs who won’t perform.

By chris

December 11, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

What a loser. I really thought the man had more integrity than this. Oh well, just wait and see what the SEC does with him. I can’t wait to actually pull for LSU and Auburn. Now, let’s get rid of the dome and really start over.

By Mario

December 11, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

The release and return of MV7.

By A155MM

December 11, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

I passed on a bet my bookie offered me in July; he said Petrino wouldn’t finish the season

The Falcons had a shot at some good coaches last year; I doubt if one of them would fly to Atlanta now even for the weather and Arthur Blanks hospitality. So, here is what to do. 1. Arthur; go back to the owners box and stay there but first fire McKay and get a GM with some guts. 2. Take the lesser of whatever coaching evils are available as long as they can get the team to face in the same direction for two seasons. 3. Draft people that can play right away even if they are not the most talented out there. 4. Stop raising ticket prices like a consistent playoff team. 5. Slap White, Hall and Crumpler with the biggest fine allowed if they ever do a “Vick in” again. 6. Finally; remember what Dallas did in the beginning of their program. They never counted the house, only the wins.

By Will

December 11, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Not sure this is the worst season ever, but it ranks right up there. One thing is certain though. The Falcons,even with Vick would not have been much better this year. Their just a below average NFL team along the lines of the Dolphins, Jets and Raiders.

They were positioned to fail this year by ownership given the hiring of a very average college coach. In fact rebuilding a bad team should have been the focus in 2007. Even a coach like Bill Cowher would need 3-5 years to turn the Falcons into a winner, but at least the short term focus would be alittle clearer and not so fuzzy.

By John

December 11, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Blow the whole thing up. Get rid of Hall and the rest of the thugs, get what draft choices you can for them, and hire a strong head coach, like Cowher.

Give him full control to run a team that stays in line, not one based on a bunch of individual thugs who won’t perform.

By stone

December 11, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

No surprise here: Petrino just behaved like the liar and coward he has proven to be time after time! Blank is clearly out of his league with the Falcons. I doubt he has the guts to fire Mckay and clean the thugs out! Hall, White and Crumpler need to head to the NBA : they would fit in great with all those thugs!!

By TampaGator

December 11, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

No communication skills. Little or no honesty. A total lack of loyalty. You should fit in well at Arkansas, Bobby P. Hogs don’t need any of the above. I hope Meyer continues to kick you butt!

By redman

December 11, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Great for Petrino. Sell Falcons To LOWEs, They have better service, and know how to prevent the thug perception.

By Rich

December 11, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Somebody shoot me … a few times just to make sure you hit something vital … please!

To think of how as recently as eight months ago I was still having visions of sugarplums dancing in my head about how Petrino and Vick were going to turn it all around in Atlanta.

Well, I was right.

By Shaad

December 11, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

I love it man! This is what this city gets for turning there back on Mike Vick any fool can see is sorry for what he has done. I understand that he has to serve his time but yall want more you want to crucify him. But this team is getting what is do to them. Vick will redeem his self and come back to the dome and beat yall like the falcons stole something, which yall did his pride and everything the man had.

By Eagles1x6

December 11, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Well the Falcons have been “Saban”ed. There is certainly planty of blame to go around, not only for this season, but for the entire history of the Falcons. The Chicago Cubs can talk about their misery and curse all they want… try being a Falcon fan. The light that was at the end of every tunnel is ALWAYS a train. MR. BLANK YOU MUST HIT A HOMERUN WITH YOUR NEXT HIRE. HE MUST BE A PROVEN NAME AND WINNER AND MAKE A HUGE SPLASH; OTHERWISE YOU WILL LOSE THE REST OF YOUR FANBASE. I have been a Falcon fan my entire life. The organization is not much older than me and no Super Bowl rings. Several names come to mind. Mike Singletary and perhaps Marty Schottenheimer. But the one name at the top of the list has to be BILL COWHER. If Mr. Blank has not already made a call to Coach Cowher, then he need to sell the team.

By FunkFunk

December 11, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

There Is Only One Person Who Can Rite This Ship & His Name Is DAN REEVES !

By FloweryBranchDawg

December 11, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

If i was Sir Aurthur, i would not trust a sole who he hired. All of these “Musical Coaches” are in it for them self. No Loyality what-so-ever!! Get a NFL Guy who know how to win and who will not put up with all the B.S from the whinners… i mean players.

By Jeffrey

December 11, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Happy for Petrino, he had several petulant veterans who though THEY ran the show and not the coaching staff ( see Alge Crumpler #83 ) and DJ Hall…they ran the coach off so now it’s time for BIG MOUTH Crumpler do start earning his dough.

Rumor is Blank can’t wait to cut Crumpler after the season ends. And a few more will go with him. Crumpler won’t be here when the new regime goes to the play-offs again. He’s a total loser after his crap last night.

Petrino joins Pete Carroll, Nick Saban, Billy Donovan, Gene Stallings and other colege coaches who realize the lifestyle is better in college and the money is superb.

Why would you want to coach a bunch of petulant brats.

By DawgNCalifornia

December 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Maybe we should look into Jason Garrett from the Cowboys? They were gonna transition in to head coach in Dallas with Wade Phillips as sort of an interim head coach. But with the way the Cowboys are playing, they may just keep Phillips. Other Thoughts: Obviously Bill Cowher Russ Grimm Mike Singletary Mike Marz (just a thought, don’t kill me on this, he’s really helped Detroit)

By Dan Moore

December 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

I never thought that Petrino was the long term solution to the Falcons problems. But the guy never had a chance with this team. And you could tell 3 weeks into the season that he was in over his head. Hopefully Mr. Blank can step back a look real hard at this situation. Yeah they need a coach who can come in and rebuild, but they also need someone who can utilize the playmakers they do have. Alge Crumpler had 774,877,and 780 yards in 2004-2006. This year he has 365 yards and 2 TDs! And one of those TD’s was for a game winner against Carolina. It’s asinine not to use a guy like that! Great coaches in the NFL think players instead of plays. Petrino is a system guy. College football is better suited for him.

By d-man

December 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Where the hell is Pat Peppler when you need him?

By Max

December 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Petrion never showed loyalty to any of his previous employers- why did Blank expect anything different this time? In addition, Blank believed everything Vick told him prior to his indictment. Is he the most naive, star-struck owner in NFL history? What happened to his much vaunted business sense?? Give Bill Cowher the moon if he asks for it- bring him in and draft a quarterback!

By Dawgbyte

December 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Bye bye Bobby, You don’t have the balls to do the Falcon job, and I don’t think you have the Nutts to do the Arkansas job.

By Born to lose

December 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

BOBBY PETRINO IS A PROSTITUTE.

By bclontz

December 11, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Fire: McKay, and all Patrino’s hires, and have a meeting with the team! Give them a chance to resign or be fired! Then rehire the ones you think are deserving, but at a reduced salary.

Hire: A known coach with some backbone and give him control of the team. Give him incentives that could make him the best paid coach in the league.

Bring in new players from the recent draft list that are not signed and pay them a decent salary (no millionaires)plus incentives for performance.

Take the money you save and reduce the price of tickets so some of us poor folks can attend games.

I don’t mind not winning, as long as it’s not costing a fortune to see them lose. Just maybe, they’ll have a decent team!

Good luck Michael, hope you’ll find a power greater than yourself and re-turn to us with a willing spirit and a kinder, gentler feel for life.

By WIN

December 11, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

I HAVE TWO MORE NAMES TO ADD TO MIKE SINGLETARY NAME AS THE FALCONS COACH. MIKE SINGLETARY!!!!!!!!!!!**

By KJ

December 11, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

As I life long Falcon fan, this is by for the worst season I can remember. However, I believe the team can rebound in a season or two. All you Blank haters need to give the man a break.He was stabbed in the back. What do you want,the Rankin Smith family back!! At least we have the Dawgs!!!

By Gene

December 11, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

I have watched the Falcons off and on since 1966. There have been two highlights that I remember: the game with a great Dallas team in the late 70’s, where Bartkowsky almost pulled it out, and the NFL championship game under Dan Reeves with the Vikings. Rankin Smith was actually a more competent owner than Arthur Blank, and that is no complement. There is no doubt that this was the worst year in Falcon history. Blank is getting exactly what he deserves and what he has brought on himself—since he first pushed Mooky around in the wheelchair on national television to the “free Mike Vick” support of Hall and the other thugs last night. Blank should right now get on the phone and beg Dan Reeves to come back as GM, and let him run the team. Get Arthur off of the field and out of the office. Reeves probably would not come back for Arthur, but he might come back for Atlanta and the state which have become a national joke. Short of a miracle, the Falcons’ problems will continue. Can you just cancel the rest of the season?

By ct falcon fan

December 11, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

For people who think this is the worst season ever they forget 1989!! 3-13, fired Campbell dring the season and 2 players died in separate auto accidents. Now that’s a bad year but 07’ is very close..

By Van Rocklin

December 11, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

We got Sabaned! Hahahaha…

And Arthur Blank needs to get on his knees and beg for Dan Reeves’ forgiveness. And then Dan should tell him to eat his millions. Serves him right for catering to a coach-killer.

By Falcon4Life

December 11, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Man…whats next? Maybe I shouldnt ask. This is shocking only because of the timing of it. This is not the first time Petrino has left a job and lied about it (see the Auburn situation a few years ago).

I was excited about Petrino, but this team was just snake bit this year and I guess Bobby could not handle it.

We are going to have to blow this thing up. Many of the current players have to go. We need a new face of this franchise and we need it ASAP. I am torn on what we need to do in the draft. Do we trade up (if needed) to take McFadden, or trade down for multiple players. DMac would put butts in the seats and bring back some excitement in what is just an awful situation. I am not really at a point of stating who I want as the coach as this is just to new to me. The only name that stands out right now is Cower, but Blank is going to have to sign a “Blank” check in order to get him here.

Everything is a huge question now. We needed a power back, QB and a Oline with Petrino’s offense. I think we still need those things regardless of who takes over, but offensive style will play a big part in who we target now.

At least he went now vs. a few weeks/months after the season was over. We can rebuild for next year under our new head coach.

There is no where to go from here but up.

By bowfan

December 11, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Good Riddance! Quitter!

By Peter

December 11, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Everyone said that Petrino did not have what it takes to coach in the NFL when Blank hired him.

Looks like they were right.

By Greg

December 11, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Question Does Mr. Blank Hire someone quickly before the 2007 NFL Firing season starts?

By Greg

December 11, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Question Does Mr. Blank Hire someone quickly before the 2007 NFL head coaching Firing season starts?

By Griz

December 11, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Glad to know that Coach P was looking to see which players were with him in the last couple of weeks. Maybe he could take them with him to Arkansas

By joebrave

December 11, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Meangelo can be Traded now??/sheesh I hope so,maybe the next Coach,will actually be able to get a corner,that can actually,cover something besides,His own turds!!!!!

By Jim

December 11, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Marty Schottenheimer would be the perfect pick. You could hire him to start now. He’s a proven winner in the NFL and knows how to turn around a losing team!

By Fred Flintstone

December 11, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

did someone just call another player (Hall) a thug?

that’s funny

all football players are thugs

By Mike

December 11, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Who really cares? Don’t let the door hit you on the way out Patrino.Considering this guys history is anyone suprised? It’s not like we couldn’t go 3 and 10 under any coach out there.

By the dog

December 11, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

How will Petrino be able to recruit in college now that his name is no longer worth spit. Good luck coach.

By Feed Up

December 11, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

I really cannot blame Petrino for calling it quits. From last night’s embarrassing show, I would throw in the towel as well. What sane professional athelete would wear a football jersey on national TV that says, FREE MIKE VICK? What a way to embarrass not only the entire team, but the city of Atlanta. FOR THE LAST TIME — DOG FIGHTING IS A FELONY!!! Why is that so hard to understand? Good luck to you Petrino in Arkansas.

By JT

December 11, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Go after Bill Cowher with everything you have. We need a proven NFL man who can manage NFL players.

By b-man

December 11, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher is without a doubt the best coach available on the planet, but convincing him to come here may be the problem.

Arthur, if you don’t want your fans to completely turn their backs….do everything in your power to get Cowher here, by next week!!!!

2nd Choice…. Mike Singletary.

Best scenario….bring both, Singletary as D-Coordinator

By rmay

December 11, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

Petrino’s track record indicated he always followed the money, at the expense if verbal committment. Blank’s a very smart business guy, I’m surprised he couldn’t see that when he interviewed him. He’s been thru tougher times in business, he’ll have to dig deeper with what he knows is the right thing to do. I do hope he thinks about Mckay and makes an objective decision. He may personally like him to much to do that. The suggestions for Dan Reeves as GM sound solid to me. Let Reeves pick the coach.

By Ron Roberts

December 11, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

1. Jason Garrett

2. Marty Schottenheimer

Bill Cowher wouldn’t lower himself to take this job, and I can’t say as I blame him.

That being said, good riddance to a guy who didn’t endear himself to anybody outside Blank’s office. The guy scrapped a blocking scheme that worked for the parts we had, and used a scheme that our players weren’t suited for.

He wants to whine about QB play throughout the season, then, lo and behold, it hits him, last night… we can’t run the ball. Coach, if ya can’t run the ball and your QB is on his back, you’re going nowhere.

It’s as basic as the offensive line’s blocking scheme. That was his call and it was his call that stifled this offense to the point that it has. Our fairly good defense has kept us in most games, and because our offensive genius for a head coach ruined the offense at the line, we couldnt’ win winnable games.

This is a GREAT day in Falcons’ history. Now, go get Garrett or Schotty.

By J-Rock

December 11, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks Cowher is going to coach the Falcons is delusional. Not even Blank has enough money to convince Cowher to sign on for that gig. LOL

By robo

December 11, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

Bobby-you must have talked to Saban about how to depart a pro team-you both are gutless yellow headed wimps and you both belong in the college ranks-Arthur please only look at NFL candidates-take anyone off of Belicheks staff-they seem to know what they are doing. Lets get this year over with so the nightmare can end and healing can begin.

By Braves Fan 79

December 11, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

BRING BACK REEVES!!!

By Jim Donnan

December 11, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

“I have a one word answer to that question….Mark Richt…..”

By savannah dawg

December 11, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Frank Beamer. Just kidding!

By Boots

December 11, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

The first hire should be a competent General Manager. How much of the disarray can be laid at the feet of McKay?

When it comes to the Falcons, Arthur is a blank!

By scott

December 11, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

While I would have liked a seasoned pro coach last year, you cant blame Petrino for leaving. All the garbage this year was bad enough but the despicable actions of Hall, White and Horn was probably it for Petrino, as it was with me.

Cut Horn tomorrow, take our time and get rid of Toast Hall as well as Twit White and get some picks and bring in a stormtrooper like Marty to straighten this crap out. Blank deserves better.

By Steve

December 11, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

While we dream about a “Winning Falcon Team,” why not dream of a staff like this? Dan Reeves as GM, Bill Cowher as head coach, Marty Schottenhamer (SP?) and Mike Singletary as OC and DC? With that brain trust, maybe even the Falcons could not screw it up… But, they are our Falcons….

By bigeasy830

December 11, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Blanks gets what he deserves, he lied to the fans and now he gets lied to. No good coach or free agent will want to sign with the falcons with a lier and snake like arthur blank as the owner. Cower was with the Steerlers for so long because the Rooneys are great owners Blank would have fired him like he did Dan Reeves. Worst move in Falcons history. I still believe Petrino can coach but he could not succeed with an overbearing and controling owner like Blanke

By D-Hall

December 11, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

I say we get Bobby Cox. He is professional and loyal and more successful than anyone the Falcons have run out there recently. Okay, so he may not know anything about football, but that’s a minor issue. He might get a few 15-yard penalties, but at least they don’t kick football coaches out of games.

By Tommy Maddox

December 11, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

I can’t blame the Coach. No sense in sticking around when the organization and the structure of the team has no sense.

What a pity. He would have been great.

By siestadude

December 11, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

BILL CALLAHAN! GREAT NFL COACH….EXCITING, DARING, JUST WHAT THIS CITY NEEDS!!!

By kool$kat

December 11, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

I would like to nominate Mark Richt! If anyone can turn the Falcons into winners, its St. Mark!

By Edward

December 11, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

First and foremost, who in their right minds could blame Bobby Petrino for wanting to leave this mess. It wasn’t like their was even the slightest of a light at the end of this dark tunnel. That being said I am still a die hard Falcons fan and the 2 candidates I would strongly consider right now are Jason Garrett/OC Dallas; and Josh McDaniel/OC New England: Both are ready to be head coaches in the NFL. If they hire a proven coach it needs to be Bill Cowher but he will need a lifetime supply of heart medication to be able to survive being the coach of the Falcons.

By sportstalk

December 11, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

How is Blank going to justify his annual ticket price increase this year? And isn’t Chan Gailey available?

By vnjagvet

December 11, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Worst season? Two words:

Pat Peppler.

I am in the camp, though, that argues for a great NFL assistant with attitude like Mike Singletary.

Second option, a builder like Schottenheimer or Reeves with the understanding that they are here for the short term with the objective of beginning a dynasty, giving him carte blanche’ to choose and groom a successor to carry on his reputation.

That is what Walsh was able to do with Seifert to some extent, but it often doesn’t work, although Belicheck and Phillips have done pretty well with the Tuna’s foundation.

By Glenn

December 11, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

THANK GOD!!!!!!!!!!!got rid of two morons in one year!!!!!!!!!!The falcons are losers and always will be!

By jay

December 11, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

In every adversity is an amazing opportunity. I live in Florida but love the Dirty Birds. Hire a proven Coach and the bring back ATL football. THIS IS EXCITING.

By Lynne

December 11, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

Wow……interesting turn of events.

LOVE IT!

By preston

December 11, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

I am going to click my heels, close my eyes, and repeat saying “there is no place like home”, until I opened my eyes and wake up in my bed, and realize that this is all one bad dream!!!!!!!!!!!

By kenlevy_99

December 11, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

I think it is time to give serious consideration to the Falcons leaving town and starting over elsewhere. I’m glad I gave up my season tickets and have not watched a down on TV this year. Thank you Falcons for proving to me that there are better things to do in life and on Sun afternoons than watching football. Thank you for giving back to me my family.

By Falcon for Life

December 11, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

mannnnnnnnn first we need to worry about a Qb who can score points because our defense is very very good and I agree about cohwer but he’s with CBS.

By Bring Da Noise

December 11, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

I don’t care that Petrino left, NOW GO GET Cowher!

By Randy

December 11, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

I’m still hoping that Arthur Blank will get fed up with the Falcons, sell the team, and buy the Braves. Mr. Blank is a winner.

By Thomas

December 11, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher PLEASE Blank. All I want for christmas is Bill Cowher!!!!

By DHD

December 11, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Petrino is a quitter. No integrity.

Mr Blank will turn this around in 2 years.

By AJ

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Petrino has been ethically challenged for several years now, including his time at Louisville. Why would a reputable university hire someone with his lack of character? I wouldn’t want my son playing for someone like him.

By Thomas

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Arthur, realize your calling requires an orange smock and go back to hawking low quality hardware!

By Victor

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Call Spurrier. At least we can get some laughs out of this year when he throws his visor.

By ASA

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Cumbaya my Lord, Cumbaya…”Come on everyone sing with me.” Cumbaya My Lord… Cumbaya… Our only hope is to join hands around the Dome and pray.

okay- just kidding. You have to admit that this is trajically comical. At least next year I can finally get tickets and watch the game with REAL Falcon fans. Not wannabe, bandwagon jumpers. Back to some good ‘ol yelling and crying at Dome - just like the good old days:-)

By Soured Bird

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher - No Dought - Get him Arthur

By Mill

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Cowher gets my vote. Mr. Blank, give him a blank check. Oh yeah, this insures us of being in position to draft McFadden…….

By Adam

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Petrino has shown further proof of his classlessness. He should be flattered that Blank would consider keeping him.

The team didnt turn on him, he simply showed them that he is no big league coach.

The Razorbacks must be desperate.

I love how in pro sports a person contract means nothing.

By efuzz

December 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Good riddance QUITTER! Go screw somebody else over. By the way, another thanks to Mike V. for the assist on this one.

By Who cares

December 11, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Are there really any Falcons fans? This is not a football team. I say sell this crap franchise to some small city and be done with it. Also, take the Hawks. Blank should buy the Braves and bring another World Series to the city.

By gamelover

December 11, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Gee what great role models for kids. Lets all support a confessed felon! Thug city Falcons, laughing stock of the NFL. Overpriced tickets to see thugs, ya, i’m sure up for that, would never take my kids to see that garbage, and get the proverbial finger in the face. Good bye Atlanta!

By JD Keiss

December 11, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Easy to click the “Good Riddance” button on the poll. Coward’s way out is to say one thing and do the exact opposite less than 24 hours later. What they saw in him, I’ll never know. Bad decision making, bad interaction with players, etc. The straw that broke the camel’s back for me was the decision last week to go for first down against the Rams when a field goal would keep it within 6 points. Let the defense hold, get the ball back and try to score a touchdown against a weak opponent. But, NOOOOOOOO…What a bum! On the bright side, we may get a good quarterback in April’s draft.

By TN Jeff

December 11, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

Bye bye Bobby, You don’t have the balls to do the Falcon job, and I don’t think you have the Nutts to do the Arkansas job.

I thought this needed to be in bold. thanks dogbyte

By Rich

December 11, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

You know, Blank has now had two guys - two KEY guys - lie outright to him in the last few months. I feel bad for him. Almost.

Except for the fact that he meddled too much and ran off Dan Reeves who, with a few more drafts, might have had us farther along.

In twelve months, we have gone through Mora campaigning for his “dream job” while employed here, a QB who can’t get out of his own way, and a vagebond replacement for Mora duck and run.

Jeez.

Anybody else notice it all sorta started with Blank?

The Smiths aren’t looking so bad now.

By Adam

December 11, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher would be an outstanding catch. Pay him what he wants as he can demonstrate sound judgemment, honesty, loyalty. Petrino demonstrated child like management skills and complete lack of character.

By Falcon Freddie

December 11, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

I think Lovey Smith is laughing more than I am. Remember, McKay and Blank hired Jim Mora Jr. over Smith. They said Mora impressed him with his “jumpstart” and ready to go to work attitude. It’s clear to me now that Homer Simpson could impress McKay, because he doesn’t know what he’s doing. He got too much credit for Tony Dungy’s Team in Tampa Bay. I’m trying to think of a coach that would be smart enough to save the Falcons and dumb enough to work under McKay… I keep coming up with a BLANK…no pun intended.

By Statesboro bird

December 11, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher, Bill Cowher!!!

Marty, Marty,!!! Listen Arthur and Rich we told you about Vick and you would not listen, please do listen this time we deserve a football winning team! Someone who knows how to pick out talent not a flash in the pan! It is time for the Falcons to quit playing around and hire a real football man!!!

By BUM

December 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

FACT: After GENIUS BLANK fired Dan Reeves, WADE PHILLIPS was the Falcons Interim Coach and Phillips WANTED to be the permanent Falcons Coach, but GENIUS Blank hired Jimmy Moran instead. When that failed Genius Blank hired Bobby Petrino.

Facts are Facts. It is what it is.

FACT: This FRANCHISE is a JOKE because the OWNER is a JOKE!!!!

By Unbiased_Blogger

December 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

GAMELOVER - You are a perfect role model I’m sure.

By Imdone

December 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Time to ask how long Atlanta has to put up with this crap.

Go Falcons! Just Go!

Where to? anyone got any ideas? How about Portland? or Boise?

By ATLfan

December 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

How about: Mark Richt??? June Jones???

By ed

December 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

OK…Vick bailed out..Petrino bailed out…Now it’s time for Blank to bail out….Sell the team to the Atlanta Hawks owner.

By TP

December 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

I can’t blame Petrino for “wanting” to call it quits, but to actually go through with it during the regular season shows no class. How can Arkansas hire someone that can’t take the heat. Go LSU, Ole Miss, and all you other SEC West teams. Let’s see if we can drive Petrino out of there in mid-season.

As for the rest of the season, Bobby Cox should be available.

By Bamafan

December 11, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

The good thing is that this makes Nick Saban look like a Saint, at least he finished the year. As for the Falcons, who cares, they are the worst team ever in any sport.

By Since1980....

December 11, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Cower, Singletary, Garret…no college coaches please.

By supa

December 11, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Say what you want about Jim Mora or Dan Reeves, but they didn’t give up on the Falcons.

By JimD

December 11, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

I would prefer to see the Birds go with an offensive minded HC. However 2 defensive minded guys would be good: Schottenheimer and Cowher. I don’t think Cowher would be interested in ATL though, seems some others places more of interest to him may be open (Baltimore, Carolina).

Schottenheimer is a no-nonsense guy that players seem to go all out for.

Coach Reeves would be an excellent choice. Although some who are suggesting he come in as GM are forgetting some of the woeful draft days he presided over. But as a coach, he is as good as any.

There are really only 2 NFL OCs that would excite me: Garrett in Dallas and Martz in Detroit.

So, my initial (though subject to change) gut feeling is to go with Martz. He developed some pretty awesome QBs (Trent Green, Kurt Warner, Mark Bulger, and latest project Jon Kitna) and runs an exciting offense (the greatest show on turf. He has an edgy attitude and I think he could generate some fun and excitement that would help make fans want to be in the dome on Sundays.

By Queen Anne

December 11, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank is a man of integrity, a great humanitarian and a wonderful asset to the Atlanta community. Mr. Blank, do not let the heartless,flaky fans discourage you or unfaithful,untrustworthy employees taint your loving spirit. Things will get better with your franchise. For all the complainers and negative commentors, if they COULD do it better and have the money, why don’t they buy the team? I am glad to see that most of the illiterate Falcons’ Fans are wearing out a new word in their vocabulary and that word is THUG. We all know that it is the newest code word, and that makes them lower than the players that they slander and denigrate. Stay strong Mr. Blank!

By Adam

December 11, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

I remember the good ole days when the Falcons just stank, but we had respectable players like Humphreys, Nobis, Kenn and others.

My family had season tickets for years in the 70s and early 80s and again while we weren’t good, it was decent people playing for the love of the game and not for the stage.

By tony scroggs

December 11, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Bill Cowher please help us ! Petrino,, I hope you are already on a plane, thanks for nothing!!!!!

By JP

December 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Vick or no Vick this coach was terrible!

Everytime you saw him he looked like he had that deer in the headlights look.

Good ridance!

By John in Tampa, FLA

December 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

If you people think Cowher is going to give up his high paying, less stressful gig to be the Falcons coach you are insane.

If he wants to coach again all he has to do is wait until the off-season and he can pick from many more attractive teams than the Falcons. Why start from scratch when you can inherit talent elsewhere.

At least Petrino knew when to fold and cut his losses. The rats are going to leave the ship faster than W’s buds are leaving D.C.

If I was in the Falcons organization I sure wouldn’t be buying anything on time until I knew for sure I was going to have a job.

By Truth

December 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

My vote is in for Jimmy Johnson.If you are on this band wagon… just note Jimmy Johnson

By KW in Louisville

December 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Surprised about Petrino leaving? I am. I’m shocked. While at Louisville, he secretly met with Auburn, lied about it and got caught. Then he met secretly with LSU and lied about that. Next he signed a ten year deal to stay with Louisville and leaves for Atlanta before the ink was dry. Yes I’m shocked. Shocked that he stayed with the Falcons as long as he did…

By gabugman

December 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Bobby Petrino = loser/quitter. I hope the Dawgs smoke yer azz next season so we can eat some ham hocks.

By JP

December 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Vick or no Vick this coach was terrible!

Everytime you saw him he looked like he had that deer in the headlights look.

Good ridance!

By Greg

December 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

I think Blank needs to start by firing McKay. Wasn’t Petrino McKay’s first choice? How can you not be surprised that this man who is clearly short on character would bail on a tough situation? McKay needs to be fired, bring in Reeves to be GM (eat crow, Arthur, it tastes like fried chicken) and let Reeve hire a real football coach.

At least we won’t waste a high draft pick on Brian Brohm…

By RIP

December 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised the fans didn’t see this coming. I am quite sure the owner knew this already. Beside Home Depot had a contest giving away 4 Super Bowl tickets. We already knew 2 belonged to MV7. I thought most of you would have figured out the other by body language and demeanor.

What coach in their right mind would want this job now. Cam Cameron will be available in s few weeks. There will be no worst to first in the NFC south next year.

By Mike

December 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

It has gotten to the point where very few people have any type of loyalty any more and Petrino is one of them now. One thing I can’t stand is a liar and he totally lied to Arthur Blank and probably did so with a straight face so I for one am glad he’s gone and I feel sorry for Arkansas cause he’ll stick them sooner or later. Bring back an honest man Coach Dan Reeves.

By StephBlake

December 11, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Garrett won’t be the next Falcon coach, he’s in line to be the next Cowboy coach if and when Philips gets fired or quits(remember Garrett was signed before Phillips); My best guess would Marty Schott. He would give the Falcons discipline and restore order; God forbid if he makes the playoffs, that’s his only glitch.

By humbug

December 11, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

If Arthur Blank, who is an honest and genuinely good man, has a fault it’s in trusting people too much.

He surely is not stupid or inadequate as some seem to think.

He just has to take a hardline stand, which he can do, and clean house, from general manager to youngest rookie player and start over with people who have professional football minds and dedication to win or disband the franchise and move along with his life.

The toughest part will be to find such people who will even consider coming into the mess we have.

Whatever he does, a winning Falcon team is several years away. He deserves better.

By Dave

December 11, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Mora Jr. got fired (for the most part) for just talking about his one dream coaching job at his alma mater, then the Falcons went out and hired the biggest weasel in coaching who simply goes behinds peoples’ backs to pursue his NEXT dream job. I thought it was ironic when Petrino was hired, but now it’s just pathetic. Seriously, why is anyone surprised that Petrino was lying and working out another deal behind the Falcons’ back? Once a snake, always a snake!

By Since1980....

December 11, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Please stop pushing the blame onto Authur Blank. This man is a great guy and great owner.

By sugarlee

December 11, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

what’s the difference in MV lying to you Mr. Blank and BP lying to you?

By Adam

December 11, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Johnson is not a bad option! How about Bill Parcells? He’s got the attitude although Blank probabky wants another yes man.

By savannah dawg

December 11, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Frank Beamer!!!!

By Grady

December 11, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

I say we hire Fassel or Schot or even Chan Gailey. All have pro experience and can win. Problem is, who wants this team? No heart, no line, at least 3 years away from anything except a #1 overall. I thought Blank was an improvement over the Smith family. We are no closer now.

By zennomad

December 11, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

I didn’t think that it was possible, but the Atlanta Falcons organization makes the Detroit Lions organization look respectable. Unbelievable!

By bolt upright

December 11, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

I just scored 56 points on the old school hand held Coleco football game. Maybe I should submit a resume.

By Common Sense

December 11, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Just like Atlanta, the most the Falcons will ever achieve is mediocracy.

By Steve L.

December 11, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Coach P. was sold a bill of goods to get him here—don’t tell me no one in the Falcons front office had ANY idea about Mike Vick’s pending troubles. How can you blame him? I wish him luck at Arkansas (just not when they’re playing Tennessee.)

By Make it Better

December 11, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

This is my 5th post attempt with the following message; is the AJC filtering comments??

Arthur Blank — you reap what you sew. Is Rich McKay still on the ‘outs’ now that your CEO-Coach lied to you - just like #7 - and left you high and dry? Less than 24 hours after you confidently proclaimed that he told you he was staying. It must be a tough job dealing with ‘less than forthright’ people especially when your own hubris is looming in your way.

Now - turn the business over to your ‘football’ people. You belong in the advised/consulted role — not the decision role.

Nothing personal Arthur Blank, but you’re the money man and the good corporate steward. Its nice to have you as an owner, but learn your place and optimal role. Hire the best and get out of the way. Be a fan and team sales man from the sky box!

Peace.

By weasel

December 11, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

What a loser. He lied to his fans, his owner, and his players. He was given a great situation. He would not have to turn it all around, just make a difference, and he would have the respect and admiration of millions. But he chose to take himself out of the picture. Wait, am I talking about the COACH or the FORMER quarterback?? HMMMMM

By jeff

December 11, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

I know people can understand walking away, but he was making almost $5Million a year. It seems ridiculous to give up with three games left. If I were a Razorbacks fan, I would watch out. He will probably take the LSU job after Miles consults himself into taking the Michigan job.

By drew

December 11, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Fire McKay and his useless staff. Blank stay out of it and watch the games from home and then hire Glanville. At least we had a laugh in the old days with Jerry and the Smiths

By Robert S

December 11, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Now calling Marion Campbell. Now calling Marion Campbell. Wait. You say that Dan Reeves wants his job back? Sure! Let’s do it. Wait, wait, wait. Hold up, there. Jerry Glanville called, you say? Why don’t we let Glanville and Reeves do a 100 yard dash to see who gets the job.

What a joke. The Atlanta Falcons are nothing more than a 42-year-old tragicomedy. And Petrino may be the smartest coach the Falcons ever had.

He got the hell out of dodge. Good for him. Glad his nose could smell how rotten this franchise is and will always be.

By TP

December 11, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Is it possible we haven’t heard all the facts? I wonder if he contacted the Falcons to inform them he would not be back next year, with no intention of leaving early. Maybe an argument developed leading to Blank telling Petrino where to go. It just doesn’t seem like someone would be that cowardly.

By The Business

December 11, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Cowher + Atlanta= Ruined Legacy

By Joey

December 11, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

I always thought he would do great things for the Falcons, but once i saw him where a damn ballcap, in a Dome, on the sidelines I thought, what a dumba$$.

By Justin

December 11, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

THIS IS WONDERFUL!!! The Falcons are getting just what they deserve. The organization threw Mike Vick under the bus, and now Petrino is throwing the Falcons under the bus. Turn around is fair play! LOLOLOLOL!!!!

By BUM

December 11, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

REALITY CHECK, FALCON FANS!!!

Candidates who WOULD accept the job as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons:

CHAN GAILEY DAVE CAMPO MIKE SHULA BILL CALAHAN DENNIS FRANCHIONE

Candidates who WOULD NOT accept the job as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. (EVER! They’d NEVER work for Arthur “THE JOKE” Blank!):

BILL COWHER BILL PARCELLS JASON GARRET MIKE SINGLETARY

FACE THE FACTS, FALCON FANS. AS LONG AS ARTHUR BLANK OWNS THIS FRANCHISE IT WILL BE THE LAUGHING STOCK OF THE NFL AND NO ONE WILL WANT TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH IT.

By GFORCE

December 11, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Doug Plank

By Collegefan

December 11, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

Fortunately college football will return soon. Go with Cowher or Singletary. Total control. Save more money by getting rid of McKay. What’s he done? Will this team perform for the ‘right’ coach? Probably.

By The Business

December 11, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Thank God now hopefully we can shoot down all this talk about Brian Brohm. He’s nothing more than a system quarterback that would get pounded in the NFL.

By San Antonio Falcon

December 11, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

What a Loser! As a PE (professional engineer), we have a set of Ethics that we have to follow. Coaches are lying sob’s. Also, as a PE, I love a challenge. I have never failed when confronted with the greatest of challenges in REAL LIFE! Although, the Bas$%^% has more money than me! Coc$Sucke$ Petrino. However he is a quitter. GT AlUM 97.

By KAN't Stop

December 11, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

When it rains it pours.

By GT81

December 11, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

I have to wonder how Blank made that billion, considering his inability to judge character. I thought B Pet was a loser for dumping L-ville 6 months after signing a long term deal. You don’t want a coach who would do that! It indicates a lack of integrity. But Blank doesn’t see that, poor guy. It doesn’t surprise me Pet cut and run here. But I’m glad he didn’t stay the course here.

“…one of the worst communicators in pro sports…”

By jimmythec

December 11, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

he was a jerk…on the field, in the news, and to his players. I never liked him. the A.T.L. will rise again in all this adversity and we will be just fine.

By ct falcon fan

December 11, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Get off Blank’s back!! At least he’s willing to spend his hard earned money on this team and he wants to win which is more than I can say about the Smith family. Blank’s problem is simply that he wrongly placed his bet and trust with one man - NO not MV7, but rather Rich McKay. McKay chose Mora and I don’t think Mora was interviewing with any other team. Then comes Petrino out of left field that no NFL team was talking to. Then let’s talk about his draft record or lack there of. The Falcons can be a good team. We need a new coach and we have a high 1st round pick plus two 2nd rounders coming up so let’s not allow McKay to make any more choices for this team. FIRE MCKAY AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE TOMORROW!!

By robdawg06

December 11, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Cowher would be great but about 12 players would be dismissed fast… I’d take a shot at Jimmy Johnson and Bill Parcells if they were interested in coaching again.

By Richard Beaton

December 11, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

My Christmas wish list for the Falcons; Now lets hire the most succussful and innovative coach not working, Marty S of San Deigo and K.C. Also, lets draft a quarterback that is already using the pro system under June Jones at Hawaii, Colt Brennan and why you are at it try pick up a couple of his receivers.

By Dirty Bird

December 11, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

This could very well be the worst 48 hours any sport franchise has ever had…

By The Truth

December 11, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

It looks like King Arthur is firing Blanks!

By credman

December 11, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

White should be the last person missing V. He was headed to the unemployment line with his lousy play until the Falcons brought in a QB who could throw with any accuracy.

By GE

December 11, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Petrino only came here because he had Vick to build around. It is obvious that he has issues with the players. This is a business, so Petrino is blowing town before it gets worse and he loses his value. Good opportunity to get a good coach(not from college)and build a reputable team.

By Ed

December 11, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Now if we can trade Hall and White. That was the most offensive thing I’ve seen from a Falcon’s player. Hall has lost his mind. Support Mike Vick. Give me a break. He damaged the team. But team means nothing to Hall and apparently White. Michael Vick is a criminal and a constant liar. I hope the next coach is Bill Cowher. He won’t put up with the likes of Hall, White, and Algie Crumpler’s crying for one second. I’m ready to see a team play, and the crap that Hall and White did on Monday night is all about me. Falcons fans have seen enough of me. Now we need to see a team play football.

By Tom Cianfrogna

December 11, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

This is one of the most disturbing things I have heard. Believe me, I though the guy stunk from the beginning and had gone in way over his head. He drove veterans to the brink and made roster moves that were assinine. However, to quit like that, a day after Blank gave you accolades on national television, is deplorable.

Relax, people, the Falcons are better off without him.

By Max B

December 11, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

This charade starts and stops w/ King Arthur. He fired Reeves, gave Vick millions, hired Mora, hired Petrino out of the blue when more qualified coaches were out there. Remember he turned down Lovie Smith in favor of Mora back in 2004 and I think the Bears are much better off than the Falcons today right. He obviously can’t pick em. Bring in a coach with a strong NFL pedigree and maybe this thing gets turned around.

By Steven

December 11, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

The Falcons are irrelevant. It really doesn’t matter. But one of the best regular-season coaches is out there. Marty Schottenheimer, if he has the stomach for this & given time, could get it done here.

By Falcon Freddie

December 11, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

No, this is not the Worst Season Ever. That will be next year when the Falcons play every game before a mostly empty dome with blackouts for the home games. How fast things change. I wouldn’t count on PETA buying too many tickets. They are usually out walking their dogs on Sundays. You know you folks called MV7 Selfish. I hadn’t seen that word used once for Mr. Petrino, the NEW HEAD COACH of ARKANSAS. Talk about Double Standards. Wow! This is really fair play. Real life Shakespearean Irony stuff. Its way too, too funny. I think Petrino is laughing loudest. Is Arthur Blank gonna demand his bonus money back from Petrino? It seems only fitting. What about the moving expenses, uniform allowances and cell phone bills. Remember, we wanted all this back from MV7…

By Danora

December 11, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

Petrino left when Arthur Blank would not rule out bringing back Vick. He just did not want to be part of this continuing circus and certainly did not want to be around here when Vick is welcomed back by an owner who has lost his mind!!!!!

By Clayton

December 11, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

Gotta get Marty S or Bill Cowher, both are run first and defensive minded coaches

Falcons need a full time tail back and a qb so the run first would help whomover the qb is

Just no more college coaches and maybe someone who won’t lie to our faces everyday

Good Riddance Petrino, have fun getting your butt kicked in the SEC

By Brown Paper Bag

December 11, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

Well, maybe the Falcons will finally get a coach that doesn’t run Dunn on first down, second down and then a pass pattern that doesn’t get to the first down marker.

By jrod

December 11, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

This is so sweet. I know now why you vick haters enjoy hating so much. It is so much fun

By John

December 11, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

AHAHAHAHAAHAH LOL - Laughing Out Loud - Atlanta Falcons fans are so fickle. In fact, consistently fickle. No loyalty. Atlanta crucified Vick when he was playing the past couple of years, saying he was no leader, criticizing him for running the ball so much as a quarterback - and listen to this: blaming Vick for not advancing the team further than it is. Now look at the Falcons now baby. The Falcons will be rebuilding for the next 7 years.

By David Duke

December 11, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

this has been a banner week and it’s still only tuesday! On Monday, sweet cheeks Vick was given almost two years in prison and today, P-U-trino quits. Hopefully, tomorrow will bring the release Of Duncecap Hall, Shoddy White and Fatso Crumpler. This would be the best week ever in Falcons’ history. Bye P-U-trino, you bum!

By dawg_dude

December 11, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

I hear L.A. would like a team.

By RW-(the original)

December 11, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Remember when we thought the Smith family was the problem? Those are starting to look like the good old days.

By Yeah...We Suck

December 11, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Now that I think about it Petrino was smiling all night on the side lines. Guess he already knew he was leaving!!!

By mike

December 11, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t think they be able to find anyone that will take the falcon job. the only way they will fill the dome is bring back jerry and let him leave ticket for elvis at willcall and hope he show.that the only way to fill the dome. jerry and elvis GO for it.

By PeeKay

December 11, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

FIRST! What a classless act by a classless man. I wish Bobby would read this - You are spineless, classless, selfish. Same thing with Arkansas AD. You are pond scum. You couldn’t have waited 3 games? Recruiting an issue? Please…

SECOND! Good riddance. You are not that good of a coach.

THIRD! Marty would bring some stability and credibility, but he is aging. Cowher won’t take it. Go to Jason Garrett over Singletary.

Not an Atlanta fan, but just hate bums like this.

By Inquisitive

December 11, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Ha, Ha, Ha. This is soooo funny. I don’t blame Petrino. How can you coach a team without a quarterback. No one in their right mind would take this head coaching job thinking they can make a difference without a quarterback.

By Mike

December 11, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

I just heard Kincade’s whiny rant on ESPN. Somebody needs to send him a few towels to cry in. Stick to Atlanta son. Secondly Arthur Blanke last night when asked would he bring Vick back said he was sixty and can’t promise he won’t. That coming disaster in itself would make any respectable coach quit that job. The fans have seen 4 coaches go under the Vick regieme and no respectable coach will take this job if the owner can’t get past Vick.

By Joey

December 11, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Who would want to come coach here? The players are too soft. This town has nothing but losers! Pick another bad coach because a good coach will never want to come here, too much baggage!

By Leon

December 11, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

This resignation has more to do with Blank’s unwillingness to back his coach and allow freedom to discipline his players. The imaturity of the players last night was an embarassment to all of Atlanta. Hall, White, Crumpler … should not play another game this year. All year the players have showed a complete lack of respect and discipline. Petrino’s hands were tied because of Blank and this PR nightmare. Blank now needs to go get a tough demanding coach. One that will not put up with this crap from the players. Their focus should be on one man and that man is Cowher. They should back up the Brinks truck and make him say no before they pursue anyone else. The biggest problem now will be convencing a coach that Blank will unconditionally back the coach and stop meddling. While Blank is searching for a coach they might as well extend the search to a new GM as well

By sweet t

December 11, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Anyone that has ever played for the Falcons are idiots. They could have more respect as a dog catcher.

By Alex Vawda

December 11, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Bad things should not happen to good people. From Chicago, with love for the city of Atlanta, I support you Mr. Blank.

By golfdawg24

December 11, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

is it true that Bobby Petrino is going to interview for the Michigan job monday and the UCLA job tuesday? Don’t get attached to him hogs

By Marc

December 11, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Bring back Reeves!! No other reputable coach will want this job and it would be foolish to hire a college coach or a good assitant coach.

Damage control is needed to recover from two bad coaching hires, bad GM hire and $130million waste in MV7, etc. This is not the bottom!! Add one more bad coaching hire and draft a QB 1st and this team might be lost for a decade.

Again simply bring Reeves back to stabilize and clean this mess up over the next 4 years. Folks wake up!! Arthur is a Billionaire by selling hammers and not by building football teams. He’s over his head also, but give him credit, he really wants to win but just doesn’t know how yet.

By don

December 11, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

mr. blank,

maybe you need to look at yourself in the mirror and realize you have no idea what you are doing. get off the sidelines, get out of the locker room, stop being a coach, stop being a general manager, stop pretending to be a scout and when you hire the next coach GET OUT OF HIS WAY!!!!

By A-ville Ranger

December 11, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

Blank is by far the biggest problem a coach has to deal with…whoever he is.How can Blank expect a HC to win with the owner undermining his athority every step of the way.I knew Petrino was in trouble when Blank stood patting Crumpler on the back just days after Algie made team killing comments about Petrino.An owner with any sense of team would have given his coach full athority to kick any malcontents in their butts and off the team if needed.Mr Blank seems much more interested with air time than winning.Why would any self-respecting,smart coach want to work for a jackass??

By Stephen

December 11, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me? The Falcons are one of the worst teams I have ever seen! You have idiots like Hall who thump their chest every time the ball falls at their feet with a record like that. I say good for Petrino and good luck to Blank on finding a good coach to take over the bunch of clowns he has at the GA Dome. Free Vick? He plead guilty you dolt.

By robdawg06

December 11, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

The Matt Schaub trade looks like the Brett Favre trade to me now ! I guess we will watch Schaub put up HOF numbers just like Favre did. This franchise is snakebit bad. Petrino only took the job because he thought he could transform Vick into a complete QB with a spread offense using the multiple receivers look. That was hilarious though when he named Leftwich the starting QB after Harrington won 2 games. I’d have asked for my release right then if I were Harrington… The Dolphins will probably trade that top pick to somebody else that will draft Colt Brennan. Maybe to the Falcoons ?

By Inquisitive

December 11, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Wasn’t Jeff Francoeur a quarterback? Maybe we can make him a two sport star. No bonafide coach such as Parcells, or Cowher is gonna come and inherit this mess. This franchise is doomed for a while.

By Mike

December 11, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Maybe Deangelo Hall and Algae Crumpler should worry about being the hype instead of mouthing it. They looked outgunned against the Saints. Flowery Branch needs some pacifiers instead of mouth pieces.

By Poor McKay

December 11, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Charley Weiss or Mike Martz.

By Raider66

December 11, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Petrino was a smart man. The writing was on the wall that this franchise was in trouble and would not recover for several years. Get a real coach and get rid of the cancers: Hall, Chumpler. and the rest of the trash

By Phil

December 11, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Two words….

…Leeman Bennett

By Larry

December 11, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

FIRE ARTHUR BLANK!!!

HE’S THE WORST OWNER IN THE NFL.

NO, WAIT, HE’S THE WORST OWNER IN ALL OF PROFESSIONAL SPORTS!!!

FIRE ARTHUR BLANK!!!

By Al

December 11, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Cowher for Head Coach AND General Manager.

By Larry

December 11, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

The Falcons showed they have no class, no character, no courage, no discipline, no redeeming values whatsoever. Bobby Petrino was the only one who showed any intelligence. It’s time to dump the entire group and start over from scratch. Failing that, it’s time to dump the franchise altogether. This was a perfectly nice town prior to 1966…

By ET

December 11, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

This all goes back to Mr. Blank’s decision to fire Dan Reeves. Perhaps Mr. Blank now understands what it means to have someone unceremoniously drop him.

By Falcon

December 11, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Blank wants to win not b/c he likes football or understands football, but b/c its strictly business. He wants to have a winning/marketable franchise, increase the value of the franchise and eventually sell it and reap the gains — this explains why he was so loyal to Vick…Vick kept the seats filled, shirts selling, and games on Monday night.

Ultimately, he has no clue how to run a football franchise b/c he doesn’t understand football. Blank is a smart man, make no mistake. However, a smart man/woman in one line of business doesn’t necessarily guarantee that he/she is smart in another line of business.

Successful (winning) franchises are GENERALLY run by people who know football — Steelers, Packers, Cowboys. Or by people who get lucky and have Tom Brady as their QB.

By GiveItABreak

December 11, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Would all you Falcon fans and sportswriters stop whining please. You are the ones who started whining about the coach after the first 4 games of the season didn’t pan out the way you wanted. Look, good coaches are a a hot item right now. And good coaches don’t need to stick it out with dysfunctional teams and impatient fans. There are too many good, high paying opportunities out there. The downside risk of failing to turn around a dysfunctional team far out weigh the benefits of fixing it, particularly in the NFL. Give it a break. Blank is a smart man learning his way in a new business. I’ll bet he’ll figure it out. He seems to have a much longer term outlook than the typical Falcon beat writer or fan.

By AJCfanatic

December 11, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

The one thing that floors me the most is that people think the falcons need 3-5 years to rebuild just because they’ve lost Vick.. News Flash they’ve been drafting young for the past three years.. two great corners, two emerging receivers, the Falcons are three free agents and two good draft picks away from being a team a good coach can turn around quickly.. This is what I hate about Atlanta, fair-weathered fans.. stick by your teams and maybe they’d play a little better I think its pathetic the Dome lost as many fans as it did this year.. I doubt Philly has problems selling out and i wouldn’t say they are doing too great the past two years

By me

December 12, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Nothing will change till Blank sell this team. We have become the 80’s version of the Bucs.

By Melchizedek

December 12, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Has anyone thought of Parcells? Jimmy Johnson? Dan Reeves? Wait, he’s at GSU. But hey, I would like to see Parcells do some damage in Flowery Branch come time for conditioning…lol. I would pay to see that game, Hall vs. Parcells. But seriously, Bkank should at least consider it. Cowher sounds like the fit for this franchise.