Falcons

By fleming

September 4, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Could be a reason why rookie QBs have problems winning their first year. If a team is starting a rookie usually that means the team isn’t very good. Who’s to say that a good experienced QB wouldn’t struggle in that situation.

By TJ

September 4, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

no one wants to comment on this page, Ryan isnt as good as SHOCKLEY!!!!!!!!!!!

By D. Bell

September 4, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

I totally get keeping Shockley on the team, but to suggest he is better than Ryan is just silly. He has potential, but he’s raw and sometimes to eager to run from pressure. He’ll get better, but he’ll never be a starter, unless two guys go down first.

By JM

September 4, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Matt Ryan is not only Atlanta’s best QB, but also Atlanta’s best player.

By Waldo

September 4, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

I don’t care who plays quarterback for the Falcons just as long as Brian Baldinger doesn’t call our games on FOX. He makes me wanna bang my head against the fireplace mantel! And don’t even get me started on Fred Kalil. Gawd!! Mind numbing.

By Halsey

September 4, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

There is no rule that applies to rookie QB’s starting. Every QB is different and every team is different. Trying to make up rules about why a rookie QB should or shouldn’t start is bologna. A QB has to be judged as an individual. It’s interesting to look back at past rookie starters, but what they did won’t matter when Ryan is on the field. By the way, people are forgetting a rookie QB who started quite a few games last year and did a solid job: Trent Edwards.

By Kenny

September 4, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

All you guys like Shockley because he is a wannabe Michael Vick. Shockley will never be Vick so please stop suggesting that he start because Ryan has more potential and is already BETTER than Shockley.

By Mark E Scherer

September 4, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

how does 9-7 and playoffs sound?

By GHunt

September 4, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

DO, I hope and pray that Matt is a lot better than what I have seen. I am still waiting for him to throw the deep ball. I have heard more talk about the intangibles than demonstrated ability. I want MATT TO SUCCEED, BUT UNTIL HE ACTUALLY DOES SOMETHING, I WOULD SUGGEST THAT WE HAVE LESS HYPERBALE FROM YOU AND MORE REPORTING THE FACTS.

By mark scherer

September 4, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

how does 9-7 and playoffs sound?

By mark scherer

September 4, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

how does 9-7 and playoffs sound?

By DOC REEM

September 4, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forgot! Ryan seems to have the potential to be very good but he has not shown us that he can make all the throws. He has not even attempted a pass over 20 yards if I’m not mistaken. He seems to be smart, moderately accurate, and a leader. All of these atributes are good but at some point he’s got to be able to fit a ball in between a corner and a safety downfield. I have’nt seem that at all yet. I like the guy, but I don’t want a glorified Joey Harrington that makes 72 Million Big Ones. Let’s hope his arm is stronger than it looks so far.

By Carlos21

September 4, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Im No UGA Fan and I can careless about MR. VICK! What I want is the best QB on the field no matter who get paid the most. And as far I can honestly see. Shockley throws the better ball of the QB’s. However, did not get the opportunity to compete for the starting position. I am sure we will see plenty “PIC 6”

By MikeJones

September 4, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

pretty big typo there on the main sports page in this articles header. Just thought you should know.

By terrell barron

September 4, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Imagine how much better we would be, if Jamal was only half the player that Abraham is? All we need to do is disrupt the passer(Kitna) on Sunday. Pressure, hurries, sacks, batted down balls, etc.. If we can do that, we’ll have a chance. If not, it’s going to be a long day. For Ryan and everybody else. Simple as that.

By Nativebird

September 4, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Ok, I was a big Mike Vick(the player) fan, but I am an even bigger Falcon Winning Team fan. I liked Steve Bartkowski, he was a winner! I like D.J.too, he was a winner at GA. But if you are really a FALCON FAN, you will look at this preseason and realize that Matt Ryan is the best quarterback on this team. He gives us the best chance to win, PERIOD! Give him a chance, he will make you proud.
What the public does not see is what he did in practice to win over his coaches and fellow teammates. They seem confident with him and as a former football player myself, I understand and respect that. He might start slow, but he will be fine. I will be there Sunday, sitting close to Steve B., cheering Ryan and our Birds! Instead of finding something bad to say, come on down and have some fun with us……. GO FALCONS!!!!!

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Hey Ledbetter, thanks for gettin this blog goin. I wasn’t gonna post on the ‘Shockley for President’ blog our buddy Terrence ‘nothin good to say’ Moore got goin on. Yo mark scherer, how does 9-7 and playoffs sound?

By Sportstalk

September 4, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Not that it matters because it was for 3rd string but it would have been alot better if Shockley were cut to keep these bloggers from repeatedly harping that he should be the starter. He will never be higher than 3rd string - for any team!

By "Charles", The Original

September 4, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Matthew Thomas Ryan, AKA, Matt Ryan is the real deal. I trust my eyes and my intuition. It’s obvious that he has the “it” factor. And he is the kind of athlete that thrives under pressure.

Unlike some rookie quarterbacks, Matt Ryan can depend on gifted and seasoned coaches, Mike Smith, Mike Mularkey, Brian VanGorder, and Keith Armstrong to create a game plan that puts the Atlanta Falcons in the best position to win; and that’s extremely important in professional sports.

I hope the game is not blacked-out. The Falcons will win, 31-21.

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

By the way, as I gaze into my crystal ball, I see Matt Ryan leading the Birds to 16-0 while throwing for 3,000+ yards and 25+ TD’s a passer rating of over 130 this year. Not bad for a rookie season. For real yall, lets just support Ryan, Shockley, Anderson and everybody else we arent 100% sure of and just watch some good ol Falcons football for the next 17 weeks. I kinda like the sound of 9-7 myself.

By DukeStank

September 4, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

If Ryan performs as he did in the preseason games, especially game 4, unable to move the ball forcing the team to punt on every drive, coach Mularkey and coach Smith will have no other option but to bench their 72 million dollar kid.

By champ

September 4, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

You forgot to put Peyton Manning’s season in the list. I think Ryan will be closer to his rookie season, obviously not as many yards or TD’s b/c of the system. Let’s say…

251/432 2600 yds 16 TD 18 INT

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Wow Boo Boo!! That was supposed to be a secret. Your leaking out vital information. Better watch out for the CIA. They might start tappin your phones. Unless you work for the CIA…Hmmmmmm. And ALL players in the NFL are on steroids now, silly. So the answer to your question is YES, Matt Ryan IS on steroids. Thats why he is gonna take us to 16-0.

By HEAVY D

September 4, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan has potential to be a good quarterback. MICHAEL VICK NEVER HAD POTENTIAL TO BE A GOOD QUARTERBACK, HE WAS JUST A GOOD ATHLETE. HE IS ALSO A LOW LIFE SCUM CRIMINAL. I DON’T WANT TO HEAR HE HAD A WINNING RECORD BECAUSE HIS LAST TWO YEARS STARTING WE DID NOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS AND WERE UNDER .500!

By NY Jacket

September 4, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

What does this have to do with Georgia Tech????

By Pete

September 4, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Ryan will be another Roger Staubach. QB’s like him come along every 15 years. He probably knows as much about the game as many NFL offensive coordinators. Not possible ?? Ask Mike Mularkey……..off the record.

By Matt Who?

September 4, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Who? The Falcons are playing already? Oh.

By Gunner

September 4, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

You left out Peyton Manning 3 & 13 his first year

and Tom Brady held clipboard until Drew Bedsloe got hurt.

By CA

September 4, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Boo Boo pretty much nailed it.

But what I think is missing here is:

I know several World Class Athletes and they all have a Mindset and attitude that is unmistakable.

If you want to get a glimpse into the demeanor of that type of person, just watch Ryans interviews.

Now dont get me wrong Ryan will have a Rough learning curve, but due to his mindset the odds are in his favor and we will just see what we will see.

Anderson is another issue and is probably closer to the point.

Many are viewing Anderson as a Bust ! Pat Kerney spoiled us, and to expect Anderson come in and be another Kerney is just silly.

Ryan and Anderson need time to develope.

We all just need to understand that we have taking a giant step back but a necessary one that will take us where we all want to go.

Personally I will relish watching the maturation process of our new players and Coaches. Sorta like watching my Children learn to walk and ride a bike.

I think what Darryl was trying to tell us is, How you practice is what you take into Game Day!

Cheers Everybody,,,,,,The season is upon us.

By kappellmeister

September 4, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Boo Boo, when you look at Chipper Jones, how can anyone think anything but steroids? Easy to confuse him with Sosa and McGuire, huh? Oh, and Hunt, if you meant to say HYPERBOLE, then maybe you should look it up. How was DL exaggerating?

By michaelgee

September 4, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Who is this DJ Sharkley anyway?

By Realist

September 4, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Wait, Doug Williams was a “great?”

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Yo michaelgee, I don’t know why, but that was pretty funny.

By Deewite Man

September 4, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

The same people that said you people who supported MV because he was black are the same people that will Vote for Palin because she’s Pale….

It is what it is…They don’t EVER want to see a Boy Running the Franchise around Heeuh!!!

By hci

September 4, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

If Shockley were a white guy he would have been gone instead of Harrington. He’s the token black for you UGA folks.

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

hci what a brainstorm sir! Do ya think if Shock was white, he might not be as elusive as he is. He possesses skills that Harrington doesn’t. Thats why he’s on the team. If he was white and could scramble and hit receivers on a dead sprint, he’d probably still make the team. Why do you ask?? Cuz Joey H. cant.

By kappellmeister

September 4, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Some of you guys are really awful. Do we really think that a professional coach would waste a precious roster spot on a player just because he is black? or white? You must be one of those people, hci - like the parents of the players I have coached who thought I picked players because I just liked them better or whatever. PUH-LEASE That would be suicide, and the dumbest thing a coach could do.

Can’t we just be ecstatic that football is back and leave all the racist, neanderthal talk out of this blog? The rest of the country who reads this actually thinks most people are like that down here because of a few dumba$$es like you!

By Get Real

September 4, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Why is it a “negative thing” for a QB to escape pressure in the pocket by running? Would you rather him take a sack for a 5 or 10 yrd lost?

It seems like its only a negative thing when a black QB does it. The black QB doesn’t have “pocket pressence, patience in the pocket or the beloved phrase..he can’t read deffenses.” However when a Brett Farve or Tom Brady does it, it’s the #1 highlight on ESPN.

By saint

September 4, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

How many wins the Falcons will have depends on the play of the OL and those continuing Penalties, that kill our drives. I would have thought the coaches would have straightened out the penalty factor by now. The DL and DB look pretty good to me. I’m glad that Ryan is able to stay in the pocket as long as he has, and his ability to read the defenses, and throw a catchable ball. He has the arm to throw it long, but his long ball looks a little unguided at the end. I assume that is something that is easy to correct, or is it a factor of Ryan getting a little nervous holding the ball so long (worried about how the OL is doing) waiting for his receivers to get downfield. DJ looked good his last game once he got out of the endzone. He is fun to watch, but really is raw material, and needs the snaps that he won’t get. He can really light up the place! He doesn’t need more than 40 secs for his two-minute drill.

By normal black man

September 4, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Its still racest in the south! Yall need to stop. Matt Ryan, Shockley, Redman, Joe Johnson, ZaZa P. I dont care who is the quarterback I just want to win. I think Shockley looked the best because he did more with lesser players (most not on the team anymore. I get it though, Matt Ryan should be the starter.. Now lets just win some games PLEASE.. Was a huge fan of Vick, he was stupid. I dont think that he is as bad as people make him out to me. People were all up his BUNKEY (no bad words) when he was here and he did something stupid and is payn for it… So lets get off the vick thing, (forgive and forget) lets get behind these falcons and WIN SOME DOG-On GAMES… GO THOMAS COUNTY CENTRAL (in South GA AAAA… My high school back in the day….though the atlanta papers hate on them)

By Boo Boo

September 4, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Scottie, Scottie, Scottie. Not ALL NFL Players are on steroids. That would assume the erroneous, that ALL NFL players came from the same major college steroid programs (where winning at all costs means the sacrifice of America’s youth is meaningful). Let’s just say 90% of the Associated Press Top 25 are steroid schools. You know … UGA, Ala., Auburn, Florida, Tenn., Miami, F(ree)S(hoes)U., Virginia Tech, USC Trojans, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Texas, etc., etc..

kappellmeister. Neither Mike Vick nor borther Marcus look like Sosa or MacGuire. Give the youngsters ten years to start looking like Barry Bonds, or Andruw Jones even, with hat sizes growing like in a Dr. Seuss story (not to mention the butt size). Look at Donovan McNabb now, versus then. Steroid recognition is about tears in muscles that never tear in normal people, but in people with unnaturally large muscles, everywhere, nothing stays protected the way it naturally would.

Of course, you could give everyone the benefit of the doubt and go to Orlando to help the Anthony murderers look for little baby Caylee. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty, no matter how obvious it is to everyone. Ask O.J.

By anotherdawg

September 4, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Just once, I would love to read a blog without the hatred and racism! Personally, I hope all the quarterbacks do well, and I think the Falcons were smart keeping the one’s they kept. They all offer something different and from what I’ve seen, they don’t seem to have a problem with each other. Maybe, we should learn from their example and stop acting like stupid children. When all is said and done, it will be up to Coach Smith and the rest of the Falcons org. to decide who plays all of the positions. It does seem like the people in charge now know what they’re doing!

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Boo Boo, I’m sure glad you cleared that up. Tech wasn’t on the list, so my man Calvin johnson is steroid free! Hallelujah! I really didn’t wanna throw my #21 GT jersey away. But what do I do with my MV7 jersey? How bout my Bo Jack LA Raiders ‘84 throwback? Or my Tuggle, or my Prime Time? Now I’m all confused.

By falconfan

September 4, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Two things: first, rookie quarterbacks don’t usually fare well because the teams they are starting for are bad. If a team is relegated to starting a rookie, they most likely had a high draft pick from being so bad the year before. The only exception I can think of is Rothlisberger a couple years ago. He went outside of the top-10 and played pretty solid for a good Steelers team.

Second thing, I believe Ryan can make all the throws. If you’ve seen much of film from his time at BC then you know what kind of athlete and passer he is. The only things that will keep him from succeeding this year are his ability catch up to the speed of the NFL and the Falcons ability to prevent the pass rush.

By Jeremiah

September 4, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

“Get Real” it has nothing to do with race, come off it already! Some people just can’t get away with bringing race into the equation. Let me try to explain so you can understand. The reason that you don’t see Brett or Tom doing it, is because they are pocket QB’s who knows their athletic abilities. They know, that they will not be able to escape like a Vick, or a Vince Young, etc., The DE’s in the NFL are FAST, VERY FAST. Shockley is faster and possible more athletic than Favre, and Brady, so I will cede that point, but he is still not as fast as Vick, nor can he run through people like Vince Young. Specifically in the pre-season, I recall at least five times when he tried to scramble and either lost yardage or gained very little, and what’s worse, is that he started to run before the pocket broke down. The one good TD he had in that last preseason game to Finneran, he actually made a good decision because he started to scramble, and then at the last second held up because the pocket was there, and he delivered a great pass to Finneran. Unfortunately, this was too few and far between. Often he would run before the pocket collapsed, right into very fast defensive ends. Ryan, conversely, routinely stayed in the pocket till the very last second, and often found the open guy on his 3rd or 4th read. And when he had to run, he was very smart, elusive, and had great pocket presence and always seemed to slide or get out of the way at the last second. He had numerous plays in the pre-season when he did this. Shockley, would often only make it to his second read before tucking and running. The coaches see this. they know football well enough to see what is happening before their eyes. Any knowledgeable fan watching, who knows anything at all about football could see this. Furthermore, to your point about Brett or Brady running and highlights on ESPN. They run so rarely anyways, being the pocket QB’s that they are, that it is highlight worthy when they do actually have to run, and what is even more highlight worthy, is when they actually have positive yardage! Furthermore, how many times did Vick, and now Young, McNabb, etc., have highlights running with the football? So, it is not about black and white, it is about Shockley not being faster than the DE’s in this league, and not making it past the 2nd and 3rd reads, and trying to tuck the ball and run. He needs to be more of a pocket passer and make better decisions, bottom line. If he did, he would not be a 3rd string QB. It has nothing to do with black and white. For those of you that argue that he is fast enough, and elusive enough to run when he wants to, that is rubbish, and you are in denial. Again, it has nothing to do with color. Look at what Vick did, look at Vince young, Look at D. McNabb, These guys are all very excellent NFL QB’s because they can elude NFL DE’s, because they can bring the ball down, and be just like a Running Back. I like Shockley, I really do, but he is not the same caliber of these guys. he simply is not, it has nothing to do with color.

By mg3

September 4, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Jeremiah….I agree with your comments wholeheartedly and I think the Falcons are going in the right direction with the starting QB and coaches hired…enjoy the game on Sunday

By TJ

September 4, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

I just wish all of “you people” would stop turing this into a Racial thing! When I say “you people” I am reffering to all of the “IGNORANT PEOPLE” white and black who think that the choice to start someone was defined by racial lines!

I bet Dr. King, and President Lincoln are both looking down on us saying “They still do not get it!”

To all of you Vick supporters, give it up, what he did was terrible, he is now a convicted Felon, and he will not ever get a chance to play in the NFL again. Havent you heard the saying “dogs are people too”? Stop bringing him up, he flipped off the fans do you not remember?? Says a lot about his character. He doesnt even deserve to be a role model, and his name should never be compared with the likes of Warren Moon, Cullpepper, or even McNabb!! Ask any person that you know, who is an ex-convict, how hard was it was for them to find a job after being released from prison ?? Even GOD has a commandment that states “thou shall not kill” May GOD and only GOD have mercy on his soul!!

Now, for all of the D.J. haters, you must be Tech Fans! And if my memory serves me correctly, Shockley did not get to play against Florida, he was hurt that game with a Knee Injury!!! He did not take Greene’s starting position, because Richt felt it was best to let Greene Finish his college career. Richt even stated in an article that he had no idea who to start because they both were talented enough to start!!

Do not try to compare Ryan with either of the Manning’s, because Ryan wasnt good enough at the High School level to attend an SEC school. He had to attend a crappy ACC school!!! D.J. is the only QB on the Roster that has two things in common with Payton, that is SEC experience, and a SEC championship Ring!

By normal black man

September 4, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

“They don’t EVER want to see a Boy Running the Franchise around Heeuh!!!”

“If Shockley were a white guy he would have been gone instead of Harrington. He’s the token black for you UGA folks.”

look at the stupid stuff that people posted…thats not racist i guess thats just stupid people. Harrington sucked in preseason… thats the real reason.. he started a game.. got plenty of time with the 1st team.. I am glad he gone.. I hope yall got some tickets so I can watch this game on TV… lol

By JoPbody

September 4, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

TJ make some good points @ the end.. I work for the gvmt.. I see how people suffer.. EVERYDAY.. Black white.. latino… forget about the dogs.. lets worry about the people here in the Good Ole US of A… Soon we not going to say that as people resort to these dogs like the chinese… being that once this economy get worse.. we not going to have food.. But atleast we got FALCON FOOTBALL.. Who cares about this other stuff…. Its football season.. GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME

By jmt

September 4, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Mechanics does not guarantee suscess ask Joey Harrington, and Alexis out in SF, you may look polished but you will not be successful. I know you what him to be successful but wishing does not make it happen and he has not seen the defenses in the nfl yet he has just been playing the girls on this defensive team, maybe you should have kept Joey so he can tell him how it feels.

By DOTHAN

September 4, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

I hope Ryan doesn’t struggle too much because if he does , people will be SCREAMING for DJ. I can see that right now judging from all the controversial/racial rhetoric on these blogs. I think Terence Moore’s column was inappropriate because DJ is currently the 3RD STRING QB. How’s he going to leapfrog Redman to the # 2 slot ?

By Scotty

September 4, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

JoPbody, dats what I’m talkin bout baby.

By Maniac is accurate

September 4, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

I have no idea how Alex Smith became the top draft choice. It seemed obvious to me he was waaaaaay overrated and was puffed up by Meyer’s scheme and the team’s success in their second-rate conference. What a waste. I like the 49ers, but that was a truly stupid pick.

By RaySkee

September 4, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

I respect Coach Smith decisions he’s made so far. He is the Head Coach and this is his team. He feels the best opportunity for the team to win is with Matt Ryan. A lot of money is invested in this kid, so I understand and respect his choice. But, I still feel that Shockley didn’t totally have a chance to compete for the starting job. He was the only QB that didn’t actually play with the starters, only some of them. I don’t know what went on at practice, but I not a coach. I am a fan who will root for the Falcons regaurdless.

It looks like we ain’t never gonna get over Micheal Vick. Besides his personal life we can’t say he wasn’t a winner. He won more games here than he lost! He was a quaterback that did ok with what he had to work with. Let us not forget all the dropped balls and the offensive line protection he had. Hey, it over now so let move on and enjoy some football.

By keith

September 4, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

God,as a life long falcon fan I wished we had fans that loved football and our team. Yes, everybody wants a winner including me but if you can’t see that Mr. Blank is doing everything in his power to produce a winning team for years to come you are crazy.Who cares if the QB is white or black (Ryan or Shockley)We need fans like Green Bay and Pittsburgh. So get out and support our team. I’m going to the game Sunday and watch a very good young team play yes I’m talking about the Falcons believe it or not I think we are going to win this game. Too bad the game probably won’t be on t.v. (locally) because pathetic fans won’t get behind our team and go to the dome. But you same pathetic fans will be eating your words about the falcons in a couple of years. I will see the true falcon fans Sunday!!!!!

By ha ha ha

September 4, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Ryan looks like an average qb to me. Honestly he looks like the new version of Joey Harington.

By Ken Strickland

September 4, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

This OFF has been constructed almost exactly like the Steeler OFF that helped Big Ben have such a successful rookie, Superbowl winning season. I don’t expect the Falcons to have that kind of success this yr, because our DEF isn’t in that Steeler teams class. But we can, and likely will, have a successful season.

Detroit will be an excellent test for our team, especially our DEF. They have big, talented WR’s and an accurate QB. Pass DEF, especially our pass rush, is a big question mark. If we can successfully pressure their QB, we can win this gm handily. I believe they’ll have as much, if not more, trouble stopping our rushing attack as we’ll have stopping their passing gm.

All we have to do is control the line of scrimmage, control the clock and put points on the scoreboard. That will put them in catchup mode and we can pin it back and go after their QB. HAVE THEY SOLD THOSE REMAINING TICKETS YET, OR WILL THE GAME BE BLACKED OUT?

By Optimist

September 4, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Ken your posts always make me smile. I have a friend we call the biggest Falcon optimist of all time. He’s got nothing on you.

By CDS

September 4, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Ryan is the real deal. QBs like him come once in a blue moon. So if a rookie QB struggles, like 99% of rookie QBs starting a season does, Shockley is supposed to be king? Let’s face it, the only reason people are even talking about a 3rd string QB is that he’s a Bulldog and some idiots look at him and see another #7 in the making. For the latter, give it up. Vick is gone, and most of us have moved on from 2007.

Ryan looked better than any of the QBs this team has. If Shockley were capable of being a starting QB, he would be starting or a lot of team would be calling for him. It’s not happening. Appreciate Ryan, because they guy is going to be an elite QB soon. But he will struggle this year. Maybe we’ll be so bad that we can get a #1 pick and replace Jamal Anderson’s sorry butt.

By Big Falcon Fan

September 4, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

1. Matt R. is no Joey H., please.

2.

By Keeping It Real

September 4, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Ryan is too slow and does not have a strong arm. The code words say that he has character and smarts. I do not believe that is enough to be successful in the NFL.

By The Original (and former) Falcon4Life

September 4, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Matty ICE has not attempted a pass (that is anywhere near a receiver). beyond 10 yards since his “Pick-6”. Watch the games!!!! The next game is stat line read: 15comp-21attempts for 102 yds. WHAT!!!??? I’ve seen option QB’s get more yardage on the same amount of attempts strictly from shovel passes. His two overthrows in the endzone of the wide open REC’s brought back memories of when B. Leftwich came in cold off the bench (with almost no practice with the 1st team receivers) and overthrew two passes in the endzone. A certain segment of the fanbase screamed that he should not be allowed near an NFL field again. Matty ICE does the same thing after spending all summer with the 1st team offense and not a word mentioned on the blogs. All of his jock-sniffers claim that his most valuable traits are his accuracy, abilities to read defenses and his poise in the pocket. So what happened the 1st time he played against a defense that wasn’t preseason “vanilla”? Accuracy, smarts and poise go out the window. You people are funny (I refuse to believe there are this many stupid people in one city) Joke of the NFL just got funnier…$72million for a dumber clone of J. Harrington.

By morris

September 4, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

Since when did being to slow ever hurt a QB? It sure didn’t bother troy aikman and ryan certainly moves swifter than troy.

Keeping it real (stupid), you’re a typical race baiter on this blog with ignorant phrases like “code words”. Why don’t you just tell us how you really feel about white people and quit dropping innuendo’s like some little b***. Ryan is the starter and the falcons have put their faith in him so if you don’t like the fact that the QB is white then go find another team to root for punk. I pulled and cheered for vick because I am a falcon fan but now he is gone and Ryan is their QB so get the hell over it.

By Jayson

September 4, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

I’m white…lets get that out there……I love M Vick, wish he hadn’t made stupid choices. I love dogs, but am more than willing to give Vick another shot. Shockley doesn’t have the talent Mike Vick has in his little toe. Not many people do. Ryan is no Vick. Vick is no Ryan either.

It will be different with Ryan, but not ness worse.

Heck, maybe Vick will be willing to come back as a HB that can throw (Bettis and Tomilson have TD passes).

If anyone could work it out, it is Malaurkey.

The only thing I hope is that the Falcons don’t give Vick to another team without any compensation. He’s worth at least a 3rd round pick. If you can’t get that, then use him in the backfeild as a QB/HB/WR

By T'ville Dawg

September 4, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

I just don’t see what you see and I see 20/20, i had hoped the Birds would take Dorsey and then get this guy the Dawgs are playing this week. Lefevour is the real deal, he comes out of the same conference that produced Ben Rothlesberger for Pittsburg and I hope I spelled these names right. I saw Lefevour play twice in their national title game, he is special, watch the game Saturday if you don’t believe me. Ryan is another 20 million a year mistake, have no fear the Birds will draft another 20 mill mistake in the 2017 draft.

By Boo Boo

September 4, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Scottie, close. Everyone that has eaten a regular diet of fast-food burgers (particularly Micky D’s) has been effected by steroids. Tech certainly could fit the Top 25 model, if they started creating degree programs like Georgia, ones designed to keep brain impaired athletes on steroids academically eligible. You know, with final exam questions like: How many quarters in a basketball game? Degrees like Playground Management. Of course, Tech would name it Playground Engineering. Same thing. But, Calvin may be clean.

Bo Jackson was the classic example of a steroid phenom in an era when steroids were mostly secret. Body builders, like Arnold, were the only ones known to be juiced then. Sports like baseball and football were more high class than wrestling and flexing. Still, a few slipped through the cracks of non-testing. It was actually okay then, to have an average of about four steroid flashes (mega-athletes) per league, because it fit the Laws of Probability. Probably could be just a freak of nature that Bo. Now, to find someone not a freak of nature is the norm, which lets us know ole Bo was just ahead of his time. Nothing special there.

I suggest E-Bay for his jersey. As for the Tuggle jersey, and any other representations of idolatry you keep around the house, I leave it up to you. Halleluja! ;-)

By Numb Skull

September 4, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

I am amazed by the insane, almost messianic devotion to a guy (Shockley) who has played precisely one of the last 6 years. I like the guy, too, but for goodness sake, people, he’s a #3 QB for a reason. If you think he has more upside than Matt Ryan - you’re crazy. If you think he’s got as much football smarts as Matt Ryan - you’re crazy. If you think he can run better than Matt Ryan - you’re right. Face it, if DJ had not gone to UGA, there would be no space at all devoted to him. This is the NFL, folks, not glorified high school.

By Lloyd

September 4, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

I trust my eyes and I saw Matt doing the same thing Joey was doing “dink and Dunk” and making bad throws. Matt may struggle but how long will we have to suffer as fans before they make a change be it Redman or DJ?

MV7 will be back in the NFL, you must remember the NFL is a business a big business and MV7 will put people in the stands. The Falcons were 8-8 in 2006 but had four primetime games in 2007 because of MV7. Jerry Jones hired Pacman, TO and Tank Johnson why? because winning puts people in the stands.

By terrell barron

September 4, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Enough with the Shockley nonsense. He’s probably not as good as his followers think he is, BUT he’s more than likely making more money than his biggest critic. Who cares? Move on! Give it a rest! Chill out! Let it go! Go Falcons

By Sakajaquetta

September 4, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Me and all SIX of MY kids think Shockley should be the starter.

By Ryan FTW!

September 4, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Just read the “Culpeper” poll on the main page, The last thing we need is another washed-up QB with an attitude.

We’re fine with Ryan and Shock!

By hal

September 4, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

i think they will play a lot tougher. it depends on the defense. they could go 6-10 or 7-9 and i would be proud. as a gsu fan and falcon fan i hate brian van-gonner( as he was known at statesboro) and hope he is not in atlanta

By The Difference

September 4, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Pac, TO and Tank did not commit “Franchiside”. They did not cost the owner north of $20MM in prepaid bonuses to go along with loss of profits from games and concessions and a devaluation of upwards of $100MM for the franchise due to the repercussions of their actions. It is what it is.

Is Ryan the answer? TBD. The best throw of the preseason was the sweet on the money swing pass in stride with a DE in his face. He hit 7 different guys in is first start so he can read defenses. He was the highest rated QB coming out last year and next year. Franchise QB’s must be drafted because it is extremely rare for one to become available. There is little doubt Ryan will struggle mightily on a bad team, as all rookie QB’s do. So what. The one hope is that there is actually a plan this time. No one likes to wait out the losing but 3 or 4 years from now maybe this will be a franchise that can actually have back to back winning seasons and yearly realistic playoff expectations for a decade. I would think the benefit of the doubt extends to at least 1 loss or bad game for Ryan in his career. This is apparently unrealistic with a fan base obviously accustomed to historical and traditional success. To steal a quote: “The name on the front of the jersey is a hell of a lot more important than the one on the back.”

By **NATIVE SON**

September 4, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

To all: Redman actually gives us the best chance at winning now. I surely see that Ryan may have aptitude, and he impressed me with the whooping they gave GT Last year. However, and unless he was playing possum, he didn’t really do enough to say he was the outright starter. I’m not against the idea though. As for Shockley, I’ve seen him in action, and it appears he has always had the slow starts, but comes up big when it matters. IMHO, his share of reps were nowhere near being fair. I’m glad they kept him, and he’s gonna come back & burn the Falcons after they release him next year. The moral of the story is,” 72 mill don’t sit the bench. PEACE FROM THE NATIVE

By vnjagvet

September 4, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Ryan sees the entire field, knows where all of his receivers are and checks his progressions better than any other Atlanta quarterback since Chandler. And Chandler was a “wily veteran” by the time he got to Atlanta.

Chandler’s arm was no better than Ryan’s, and he took the team to its only Superbowl.

If the team loses more than it wins, it will not be Ryan’s fault.

By sickfan

September 4, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Again,why the hype? This is such propaganda. I have never seen such a conserted effort to hype a player who has done absolutely nothing. This is like VInce Young - he is terrible - his team wins despite his really bad play, but eveyrbody sits around and ignores the numbers andtalks about how great he is. STOP HYPING RYAN until he actually plays well and has a QB rating of more then 80. He shouldn’t be playing now, he should sit like all rookies and he should figure out what is going on.

By STUYYYOURHISTORY

September 4, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Please don’t compare Mike Vick’s charachter to that of President’s like Washington or Jefferson or even Lincoln for that matter. Mike Vick is much more of an honorable man than any of those bigots. The first two held slaves and therefore treated PEOPLE much worse than Mike treated his dogs. And Lincoln HAD TO “free” the slaves out of political necessity. Lets put some perspective on Vick’s crimes.

By Ken Strickland

September 4, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

OPTIMIST-to a pessimist everyone that doesn’t think like them is considered an optimist. I do know that every time the Falcons have hired a new coaching staff and employed this type of OFF philosophy, we’ve won big early. LBennett and DReeves are the 2 examples. Even Mora did very well his 1st yr. This is virtually the same OFF that Pittsburg used to win there last Superbowl with a rookie QB. Although we are a very young team, we are very talented at the skill positions, especially on OFF.

Take this yrs teams basic run first OFF approach, add a very soft schedule, along with talented skill players, and I can see a successful season. You and others are too hung up on the problems of the past to see the potential of this yrs team.

I’m surprised to know that you view my opinions in a jocular manner. However, if the Falcons do have a successful as I foresee, maybe you’ll see the difference between trying to identify a joke, and becoming one. As a Falcons fan, I hope you become one.

By Political Necessity

September 4, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Breaking up a country and a resulting civil war was “necessity” umm, ok. Maybe it;s good Clayton got their certification asked.

By Great Falconi

September 4, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

The AJC Sports home page has a picture of a sold-out Georgia Dome that dates back to at least 2002.

Come on, AJC. You have pics of the Dome being sold out from more recent seasons. The old end zones and the old logo are dead giveaways.

By STUYYYOURHISTORY

September 4, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Political Necessity…did you know that they can now cure your dyslexia? Unfortunately there is still no cure for your chronic stupidity.

By optimist

September 4, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Wow Ken. An innocuous comment regarding your unflagging optimism towards the Falcons no matter what and you get bent out of shape. Perhaps I will just join the myriad others who rip your commentary as un-knowledgeable garbage. Clearly this is a a supremely talented group that is pretty well recognized as a contender for a top 2 draft pick. Nice comparison to the Steelers - we’re just missing all the pro-bowlers. Oh - and since your such a “big fan” I’ll be thinking about you from my seat as you grovel for others to buy tickets so you can bury your worthless a* on the couch and leach off of real fan’s devotion so you can watch on TV. I hope this response makes you feel better than my previous.

By political necessity

September 4, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

I’m just more clever than you. Thanks for biting.

By henry

September 4, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

This racial back and forth between black Vick/Shockley supporters and white Ryan supporters makes BOTH SIDES LOOK LIKE IDIOTS!!!!!!!!!!!

By BIG DAWG

September 4, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan is a guy who controls the huddle, the players trust and believe in. They’ll bust their butts for him and he’ll be fairly successful this year. A couple more years with this staff and Atlanta will be at the top of their division. I don’t care how small he is, put Kroy Briermann (sp.?) on the left side and turn him loose! He’s Norman Bates with a helmet. By the way Tville Dog..I’m tville too. Real football down here!

By Gene Roddenberry

September 4, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

I agree with Henry bigoted blacks and whites are AN EMBARASSMENT to anyone with a modicum of psychological maturity. Let’s just get behind Ryan and hope for the best.

By curtis fitzgerald

September 4, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

OK! LET’S GET THIS THING RIGHT! doug johnson, matt schaaaabbbb!!! and now ryaaannn!!! Keep on pushing these basic drop back passers. The real season is here! Now you vick haters will truly get to see what you wanted. Basic drop back passer getting killed. I can’t wait to see you your faces half way through the season after 6 picks, 4 returned for touchdowns. by the way!!! Yaaallll pitched Mr. harrington last year as the savior. Can’t wait to laugh this whole season. Vick will be out soon and playing with a vengence. Can you say 3-13 again, Go SHOCKLEY!!!

By BIG DAWG

September 4, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Curtis.. you obviously are a product of the Clayton County school system. Let’s see. The Giants, Colts, Patriots, Steelers, Cowboys and take your pick..seems to me dropback still works.

By Sarah Palin

September 4, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

WOW!! I had no idea there was so much racial tension here in the mainland. I ‘ll think I’ll tell Sen. Mccain I’ve changed my mind and go back to Alaska where we don’t care what color you are as long as you can hunt and fish well!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Recent Reader

September 4, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

As a Northeasterner who lived in Boston for many years … a city not without it’s own racial issues …I wasn’t sure upon first reading these blogs when Ryan got drafted if the openness to talk about it, even in an antagonistic way, was better than the silent undercurrent of the Northeast. Upon further review … .I prefer the silent undercurrent … . and a fan base that doesn’t cut apart it’s team’s choices because of the color of the player’s skin.

By kreese31

September 5, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

Hey MaTT Ryan will lead the Falcons to their demise. Have any of you idiots noticed that when the Falcons win, Matt Ryan is the Hero, but when they lose, its something wrong with the Falcons. I don’t care how you slie it, Dimitroff f-fed up with that pick. This will be a trend all season. the Falcons win give the redit to Matty Ice, when they lose, blame the Team, well, team get ready!!! Like the article says, trust your eyes, not the MEDIA, nor TV!!!!! I went to the Falcons vs. Titans game. Matty Ice overthrew three recievers bak to back to back, but all Mark Schlereth(hate that guy) could say was that VY was inaccurate!! Well Matty Ice was inaccurate as Hell, but they(commentators) always give the white QB’s a pass, if you don’t believe that, tell me how in the hell does Joey Harrington get signed b4 Duante Culpepper? It is sickening how that double tandard is set. like tonight. Jason Campbell was 15-27 for 185 and a td, but the commentators(Schlereth) wants to say that JC is not a good QB. Eli Manning on the other hand ws 19 of 37, 216 and an int, yet according to Schlereth, was comfortable and on point, what BS, what a double standard, what an a-hole. Stop Just saying that white QB’s are better b-cuase they are not, they just get help from the 15th man(Media). Matt Ryan is benefitting from it too!!! remeber the last Preseason game. well DJ threw the ony touchdown of the game, yet the headine in the AJC the net day read, “MATT RYAN starts the Falcons on their way to a win” what a rock of s*. Matt Ryan went 2/7 in that game and looked horrible doing it, yet the AJC gave him credit for winning the game. Keeping DJ was the right move!!!!!!

By Ken Strickland

September 5, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

OPTIMIST-you’ve given yourself a name that for you seems to be a misnomer. You call yourself an optimist, yet you criticize someone else for being optimistic. Are you that conflicted? I certainly don’t intend to engage in a running series of childish retorts with the likes of you.

You make a big deal of attending the gm, and redicule those who watch on TV. Well, the NFL receives far, far more revenue from the TV networks than they do from attendance revenue. In fact, all NFL franchises are guaranteed a profit before ever playing a single gm based on TV revenue each team receives from network contracts. Guess what, the TV networks and their sponsors are able to pay the NFL these tens of millions of dollars because of those of us who, as you put it, “BURY YOUR WORTHLESS A* ON THE COUCH AND LEACH OFF OF REAL FAN’S DEVOTION SO YOU CAN WATCH ON TV.

The next time you consider classifying someone as un-knowledgeable, maybe you should take a good long look in a mirror first.

By kreese31

September 5, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this

Big dawg, you dot know what you are talking about, Ben roethelisberger is not a basic drop-back passer, neither is tom brady, or tony homo, they all can scramble. eli and peyton are the only ones on that list that are basic drop back passers!! let me help you out!! bengals, dolphins, st louis, arizona!!!

By Lost in space ATL. Falcons

September 5, 2008 7:42 AM | Link to this

Yes a lot of fans want Vick back sure. Ryan can be a good QB if you give him the right time. Vick is the Falcon . Yes he mess up bad I for one for give him. He has skills this team need who has 20 TD passing and 1039 yard rushing in one season that history. Give Ryan three year and he will be ready.

With both of them QB will be a lock. The Gm need to draft line man next year and please no more PR Games. Watch the ticket sell next year if vick come backand we can go back on prime time . This is if the Falcon Management wants to win. We the fan base has grown tried of loseing just get the best players. we all have some kind of past we don’t like but for sure america give second chances it time to give superman his I say welcome back #7 mike Vick this city love you and Blank will have a win win in Atlanta!

By DukeStank

September 5, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

Sunday’s game will prove that all the Ryan hype is just a bunch of Mularkey

By lloydd

September 5, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Kreese, I agree with some of what you said I watched the Titans game on tv and Matt threw pass in the endzone behind Roddy and the commentator said Roddy could’ve made a better effort. One reporter said Dante didnt want to be a backup.

This whole preseason has been about trying to sell Matt Ryan to the fans, I’m not impressed. I think Redman didnt get a fair shot at the starting position. Matt may be good/great but if he cant the job done I hope Smith will pull him out the game and put in Redman.

By richbrave

September 5, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

REDSKINS ‘08:

The price you pay for not drafting and organizing O and D lines before you start building a contender.

By Optimist

September 5, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Ken - congratulations. Your ranting retort made no sense as a reply. I never criticized your optimism of the Falcons. Nor have I questioned the strength of the NFL’s TV partnerships. Another example of your keen mind in action. I look forward to ridiculing your repeatedly absurd and baseless opinions that continuously prove you know very little about the NFL. I also like how your reply here does not even address the critique of your asinine theory comparing this years Falcons to a playoff team based on “historical success of first year coaches in Atlanta” (well not ALL of them just some random ones you picked out). You won’t have to worry about running commentary with me as you are outmanned and my ridicule of you will be painfully obvious and merely in line with the rest who find you a blowhard doofus.

By Vick Supporter

September 5, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Well well well. The falcons had to rely on coporate sponsors to sell tickets. What a shock,lol. The Falcons will lose this year and for good reason, they don’t have #7. No one cares about this team and people have lost faith in the falcons ownership. I don’t hate the falcons because they’re the falcons, i actually like A. Blank. I really hate the fans here because of all the racial judgements that was cast upon #7 during his time here. The man was blamed for everything, although without him, the falcons are nothing, which has been proven. Matt Ryan ain’t Mike Vick (ON THE FIELD), and I don’t believe he has what it takes to carry a team on his back, like Vick. I’m actually glad that the game is going to be televised so i can get some laughs. The falcons did what they had to do, hype up Ryan to get interest in the team. Didn’t have to do that w/Vick, because he is a GREAT QB, no matter the numbers. If you took Matt Ryan off of this team, they would be the same sorry a* team they are now. losing a real qb shows, as it did when Vick got in trouble. I hate that Vick did this to himself, but I support what he did ON THE FIELD, which was #7 gave us the best chance to win, even without an OL, WRs and an average defense, and also with a 50 year old kicker whose range is 40 yards. Vick will be in the NFL and he will redeem himself. Guranteed

By Lasher

September 5, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

I have seen great QB’s and bad ones. I have seen some with pleanty of talent (VICK) but cant run an NFL passing offense worth a flip. The reason I dislike running QB’s is most of them, most, run like that to get attention. They are selfish players. Most of the time if you watch the re-runs, TIVO, Vick ran, with wideopen WR in the field, and didnt even get half the yards if he had thrown it. I disliked Vick as QB, he should have been a RB or WR. The samething with Shockley, run the ball before i throw mentality. He has talent, but talented QB’s dont win, Smart ones do. We should have dropped them both, Harrington and Shockley and picked up another young pocket QB, and try to groom him to be a back up after Redman leaves. Shockley will always be a third stringer, we need someone to replace Redman, think of the future. I say we go 8 - 8 and miss the playoffs, but i would be happy with that record.

By 3rd String

September 5, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Amazing how a 3rd String QB is the back drop for racism, homer speak, and a forum for discussing a player who is now 2 years removed.