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Thursday, July 31, 2008
Falcons’ Lofton, Turner, Mughelli get to play some hits
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Flowery Branch - Of the varieties of drills the Falcons run during training camp, the end result, in a nutshell, is simulated football. There is hitting a point, scheming to a point, playing full speed…to a point.
Well, Coach Mike Smith is finally going to allow his team to play football at a scrimmage Friday at Mill Creek High School. It will be a no-holds barred, full scale hitting and tacking practice, with only the quarterbacks being off limits.
If you plan on going, get there early because after a few kicking drills, Smith said the first teams from both sides will face off to start the scrimmage.
Here are some things to look for:
• Michael Turner: The “Burner” seems to be craving some contact but besides that, the big offseason free-agent acquisition could showcase some of his speed that could allow him to get out of some jams.
• Of course, the quarterbacks. While the completions will be a big thing, also take note of how Chris Redman, Joey Harrington, Matt Ryan and D.J. Shockley command players in the huddle and on the field. So much of being successful at that position depends on the quarterback’s overall presence.
• Along the offensive line, how left tackle Sam Baker executes will be worth taking note, but the guard play could be more interesting. Left guard Justin Blalock is said to have improved, which is hugely important after his so-so rookie season. Right guard Harvey Dahl has been impressive so far and needs to develop consistency to fend off Kynan Forney.
• Defensively, left cornerback Brent Grimes, who looks like he’ll be the starter, needs every bit of live action he can get. Him vs. Roddy White, who has had a great camp, will be fun to watch. Rookie WR Harry Douglas has also made some DBs look bad so far.
• Former Georgia middle linebacker Tony Taylor is working with the first unit but he’s being pushed by rookie Curtis Lofton. Lofton is a thumper and the coaches want to see him thump. Taylor, meanwhile, doesn’t make mistakes and has done nothing to hurt himself from retaining the starting position.
Of all the things I’m looking most forward to, it would be a third and short situation with fullback Ovie Mughelli — yes, he will actually be on the field this season — lead blocking for Turner with DT Grady Jackson, Lofton, OLB Keith Brooking and safety Lawyer Milloy trying to stand their ground.
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