Falcons

By Clay

September 8, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Paragraphs????

By Big Falcon Fan

September 8, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Offense - B+: Running attack was unreal. I am intereted in how we will do against better teams. Turner signing looking like a steal. Ryan has to look beyond the 3 or 4 yard dink and dunk passes. I am still excited about his presence in the pocket.

DEFENSE - C: Had a chance to put Detroit away in first half and defense let them back into game. I don’t believe the line is going to make it this season. Falcons should put J.Anderson on bench and try something differnt at other end. Abraham was something else yesterday. Corners are going to be eaten alive by Brees and other quality QB’s.

By NFL Guru

September 8, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Great job Falcons Actually Ledbetter I would give the pass defense grade B. Why B? Going into the game the consensus was the corner-backs and safeties would be over match by Roy and Calvin. To hold those the offense to 21 points is awesome! We have 2 unproven corner backs going up against 2 bigger and stronger receivers.

Great job secondary!!!

By Ryder

September 8, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

I have to give the Defense a B, simply because they adjusted to the Lions air attack in the second half. Abraham had a career day and the LBs did a great job in shutting down the run.

That said, I do fear for the corners when Atlanta plays the Saints and Chargers, as they will get exposed. However, this is what we have to expect for a young secondary with only Lawyer Milloy as the veteran.

The offense gets an A+, and before you call me a homer think about this: Mularky has a power running attack that worked to perfection. 318 yards! We finally have a Michael that we can support. He could be this year’s Adrian Peterson, without the injuries.

By Manny

September 8, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

Let me use the same grading pattern to show what I thought about the win.

PASSING OFFENSE B-. I thought that Matt Ryan did what he was supposed to do. He did no harm, and that first pass was spectacular, right on the money! And there was that good pass to the TE that showed some mobility. He did no harm.

I gave him a B- though, because there was a pass that he threw directly to a defender that should have been a Pick 6. And the reason why that mistake was there was due to Ryan staring down his receiver. And that would have been disastrous. Also, he only had 13 attempts. And after tearing it up in the first quarter, he went cold in the second. But, not bad the the first game.

RUSHING OFFENSEA+. All I can say is “Wow.” 300 yards rushing! Michael Turner running for 220 yards. Jerious Norwood almost was just shy of 100 yards. Complete domination of the O-line. The rush offense is the excitement that the Falcons needs in order to bring back those Vick fans. That kind of performance sells out stadiums.

PASS DEFENSE C. I thought that the Pass Defense was pretty strong, even though they still needs work. I think that even though Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson didn’t light it up on us, they did expose the fact that Brent Grimes has trouble defending balls passed to receivers that are taller than him. And both he and Chris Houston can find themselves on bad position when the ball is in the air. But they both had solid performances. They expect them to get better by next week.

RUSH DEFENSE A. The Falcons controlled the line, period. They plugged up holes, and the Lions couldn’t get started. Also, I think that some of it was poor game planning by the coaching staff. I will address those guys later.

SPECIAL TEAMS B-. They didn’t make any mistakes, but only Norwood’s return made any difference.

COACHING A+ I’m sorry for any of the Michael Turner, Matt Ryan, or John Abraham fans out there, but this coaching staff should get all of the credit for this win. This is the first time since the 1998 team that I saw an actual system that was coherent. In this system, you can plug and play athletes and the system keeps moving. It kinda looks like a cross between the Patriots and the Jaguars (no surprises there) and it features big and athletic linemen.

These linemen, both on offense and defense, are the true heroes. On offense, I’ve seen clear passing lanes for Matt Ryan. I’ve also seen the athletic ability of the linemen, hustling over to hit their blocks on the pulls. It was fantastic! I only wished that we could have had this line a long time ago. Michael Vick has never played with a line like this. It’s a shame.

On defense, I agree- the different looks and different blitz packages gave constant heat to Kitna. I didn’t like the fact that we went without a lot of blitzes in the 2nd half, because the pressure helped our young secondary.

Now, on to the game planning. The Falcons’ coaching staff out-coached the Lions. Point Blank. I still don’t know why they thought they should have established the run first, when the running game is not their greatest position of strength. I know they wanted to alleviate pressure on the passer, but you can beat a strong pass rush with screens and quick slants. I mean, did they notice that our corners were inexperienced? They didn’t start trying to expose our corners until the second half. That’s just bad coaching!

And when your QB is on the sideline yelling at your coaching and showing his frustration is a tell-tale sign that your coaches are being second-guessed by the athletes on the field. And they have not bought into your system because they’re seeing flaws. Horrible coaching by the Lions.

By Scotty

September 8, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Offense-A. Only 13 pass attempts for MR2, great gameplanning. Kept alot of pressure off. Especially after the 62yd icebreaker. Can’t even speak on MT33. The guy has obviously been waiting on the chance to prove himself. He never quit. Not even at the end of the 4th qtr. Norwoon too. Still churning out 10yd runs late in the game. O-line was great. Awesome execution and discipline. Defense-B+. Gotta give credit to the coaching for keeping the WR’s at bay. help from the safeties and LB’s was key and they executed properly. Big Grady was the plug. That guy sure can intimidate anybody thinkin bout runnin up the gut. Abe came out reminisent of last years Carolina opener minus the injury. 21 pts is a little much, but still very impressed overall. Special Teams-A. Jennings came thru, Norwood always does. Tackling was fundamentally sound. Overall-A. Playcalling and execution were keys to the win and we did both great. The Lions are not one of the elite teams in the league, but they were supposed to be better than us. Great start for the ‘08 Dirty Birds.

By Poor McKay

September 8, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I’d give the coaching staff a B. End of the first half, instead of running the ball to milk the clock (and obviously the running game was working well), we threw the ball from inside our own 20. Next thing you know, we’re giving Detroit the ball back and they march down the field and get a TD before the half ends. It was a mistake to ask Ryan to be that aggressive toward the end of the half and in very bad field position. Detriot should not have been in position to be within a TD going into half-time. I would have expected better clock management from Mularkey, this isn’t his first rodeo. Other than that, great job coaching.

By FREE MIKE VICK

September 8, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

If Vick had played, they would have scored 60 points. Why don’t some of you see this?

By kevin

September 8, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

^HAHAHAHAHAHA…Shut the hell up. Your just an ignorant black person who hates Matt Ryan because he is white…would you be saying the same thing if the starter was black???I doubt it…

To all you “FREE MIKE VICK’S” out there, go ahead and do all falcon fans a favor and get the hell out of atlanta…we dont need you here. The future is now…its MATT RYAN and NOT MIKE VICK…it never will be because Vick will NEVER see the field in the NFL again…

your a joke

By shoes5460

September 8, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Mike Smith made a rookie mistake that could have hurt the Falcons. At the end of the 1st half he should have run the clock out. The Lions had no time outs and the Falcons were deep in their own territory. He attempted to move the ball and stopped the clock allowing the Lions to come back and score. Go into the locker room up by 14 and don’t have a game changing play late. Again, big mistake.

By Bob

September 8, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Great win for the Falcons..love the new additions. Turner is going to be a Pro-bowl RB for many years to come. Ryan will be there with him also. I want to give some love to the Special Teams. They put the lions in terrible field position all day and great returns by Norwood. I am still not the biggest fan of Adam but I feel he is getting better!!! Great win and hopefully this will bring more fans into the Dome. It was a great enviornment yesterday in the Dome. Get your tickets now it should be a fun season!!!

By kris

September 8, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Did anyone ask Coach smith why they didn’t run the ball and take the 21-7 lead going into the half? That was a horrible series that could have cost the Falcons the game. Does Mularkey or Smith that decision?

By Falcon3107

September 8, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Finally someone got it right on how to use Norwood , The OL looked great , the DL has got to get better , the best way to help the CBs is pressuring the QB. Altogether Great Job. GO FALCONS , when ESPNs Power Rankings come out the only #32 we will talk about will be Norwood.

By FREE MIKE VICK

September 8, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

I hope the Falcons lose every game. Thats what they get for turning there back on Vick.

By kris

September 8, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

shoes5460 exactly!

Watching the sidelines, it seems Smith stays out of the offense.I wonder if he made that call or Mularkey?(to pass it which stopped the clock and allowed the Lions 1 minute to drive and score)

By Scotty

September 8, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

I expect a few mistakes for our first game. Coach Smith gets a pass on that one cuz we won big. He will learn. Two huge mistakes on this blog are FREE MIKE VICK and kevin. We played great and got a great win game 1. Lets talk about that, Falcon fans. If we had Prime Time and Tuggle and Bad Moon and Van Note and Vick and our current team maybe we would’ve won 6000-0. That would really be cool. How bout if we still had D. Hall? We might’ve lost 6000-34. Go Birds.

By Susan

September 8, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Enough is enough. The truth is Michael Vick turned his back on Michael Vick. He had the opportunity and talent to achieve greatness, but instead made horrendous choices, both in his actions and the people he surrounded himself with. At some point, personal responsibility has to be addressed and that is what is happening now. I think the Falcons did exactly what they should have done… they made smart trades and draft choices and are moving on successfully. Here’s to a great season!

By Realist

September 8, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

I am a black woman that thinks Michael Vick is now suffering the consequences of his actions. This is not a black/white issue, it’s a right and wrong issue. He did something wrong and now he’s suffereing the consequences. It’s people like “FREE MIKE VICK” who really frighten me because after all has been said and done, you still don’t get it do you? The Falcons looked pretty good yesterday, (but then again, so did my Saints!!!) I’m looking forward to watching the new look Falcons without No.7. Get over it, Arthur Blank finally grew a pair and decided to protect his other investment, the team. Go Falcons!!!!

By McRly?

September 8, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

By FREE MIKE VICK : I hope the Falcons lose every game.

How old are you dude? Like, 12? Hahaha. You’re seriously embarrasing yourself there bro. Maybe you should just let it go. As much as I know you don’t like it, that era is over. Hey, I loved Vick too, and the organization was completely wrong for turning their back on him after he shot birds at the fans and got pictures of himself smoking weed posted on the internet and got busted by the Feds and lied to the face of the owner and the team and the fans who loved him like me. People should just overlook that stuff, but we didn’t cause we’re the reason he got busted cause it’s a conspiracy bro. I was the dude planting pitbulls on the grassy knoll!!! I confess!!! bwahahahaha!!

Seriously, we’re all really tired of the name Vick. We loved him, and he crapped on us, and we moved on and it’s over. I hope for your sake he gets out and we trade him and he gets to play on another team so you can be happy watching him play. And then you can move on to someone else’s message board and BORE THEM TO TEARS with your boo-hooing for Vick.
thank you, that is all

By bobby

September 8, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Free Mike Vick - You can’t be a Falcon fan. I am still a Mike Vick fan but the Falcons didn’t drive Vick to the dog fights. When someone you trust is causing you millions, you have to cut loose at least publicly. I’m certain Arthur still cares for Vick as a person but he can’t go down with Vick. Vick will be back somewhere and I will root him on but I will always root for my Falcon’s. Now about the performance, looks good overall against the up and down Lions but our schedule is brutal. I see us beating the Chiefs, the Raiders and maybe St. Louis. OUr division seems to be too strong for any wins unless Matt catches fire. He did well at the little he did do because he did not have too much the way the running game performed. I just don’t know if we can have this same kind of running game week in and week out against tthe gauntlet we face.

By The Truth

September 8, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Kevin you are such an A———le to respond to Free Mike Vick. Guys like Free Mike Vick post such things which are not necessarily their true feelings, but do so to elicit a response and you have fallen for it, and gone racial. How do you know he is black? Let us enjoy the great performance by Matt Ryan and the other Birds. It was a very good performance by the coaching staff and well executed by the players. The much maligned Oline was the story to me, and Abe was a monster as usual. I tell you that if he is healthy he is among the top two pass rushers in the league. Last year I was willing to give J.Anderson a pass but I am going to watch him for a couple more games, before declaring him a Bust. Desspite his short status, Grimes made up for it with his aggresiveness. Houston seems lost on some occasions which may be due to his lack of practise. Ryan, Lofton,and Sam Baker were impressive in their debut. This is the first game but if we continue to run the ball well my prediction of 4-6 wins may be surpassed. Let us hope more fans will go out and purchase tickets to support the team.

By Gary

September 8, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

To all of the FREE MICHAEL VICKS out there.

A Thug is a Thug is a Thug! He made the choices he wanted, you can’t bring revive rotten fruit. Once it’s rotted it goes in the garbage, never to be savored or enjoyed again. It’s OVER!!!!

Hey Atlanta……..WE HAVE A TEAM!!!! For those of you that said Matt Ryan didn’t have an arm (cannon) look at the 46 yard…. all air…. pass to Roddy White!!! He can Scramble out of the pocket, he can pass while scrambling!! Quite a few people that made comments about Ryan starting and doubting him now all owe him a written apology in here!! He reminded me of a young rookie Joe Montana. Very similar to each other! Besides having a QB that’s great we also have receivers and backs that can play!!! Not to mention a solid Offensive line!! The defense………Abraham…..Anderson…… great pass coverage and penetration Amazing!! This is going to be an exciting football season and I think we all better get ready for a crazy ride!! It’s gonna be fun!

By Dennis

September 8, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

If they free the dork named Vick, then they need to free the white man in the South Carolina prison who’s serving 40 years for the same darned crime. Let’s see all you Vick-thug lovers out there protesting for that man’s freedom. After all, all he did was fight pit bulls.

By dj

September 8, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Alot of comments about downgrading the coaches for play calling at the end of the first half. I am the opposite; I apprecicate the team going for the throat - alot of young players not executing that let the Lions back in the game and that is all. The only downside I saw is not going after Kitna all out with the score 21-0; he was already flustered and a few more hard hits would have ended the game earlier.

By bobby

September 8, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

What did Mike Vick do that was Thuggish?

By Greg from Marietta

September 8, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Kroy Biermann has got to play more at left DE and the switch of Jamaal Anderson to tackle is a great idea. Kroy has shown he has the quick hands and the moves to cause disruption in the backfield. I believe with a little more technique and some work in the weight room on upper body strength he’ll develope into a very good DE. Jamaal could develop into a great DT.

By Wink from Lithonia

September 8, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Grading the game by units:

Offense: A+ / We got after them on the offensive line, which I give a lot of the credit. Michael Turner was tremendous with 220 yards rushing & Norwood had a good game of his own with 14 carries for 93 yards @ 6.6 yards per carry, not bad (I like that nickname Thunder & Lighting). Matt Ryan had a good day as well, he was hot early, going 5 for 5 on pass plays; he did not hurt us, good game management & appeared to have control of huddle. Receiver made plays & got yards after the catch; I can’t remember a dropped pass.

Defense B / These guys played great team defense, held Detroit to 65 yards rushing. As a result we were able to help the young corners. We need more pass rush help for Abraham; I don’t think Jamal Anderson is the answer; maybe move him inside & try the other rookie end. These guys chase the ball; I notice one play where all 11 guys were walking back from the side line together to huddle after a tackle.

Special Teams: B+ / The coverage teams were very good. They did not miss a tackle. Jennings did attempt to return most punts, instead of the usual fair catches. Elam gave us the points on field goals & extra points. There was only one bad punt and that was near half time.

Coaching: B- / Game preparation for the players was excellent. The in game management was suspect near the half time; we should have ran the clock in the last 2 minutes, but we ran our 2 minute offense. Our lead went from 21/7 to 21/14 at the half. One last point, on one of the touch down run near our goal line, we had big Grady on the side lines and they ran the play right up the middle where Grady would have been; I question why he is not on the field during a goal line stand???

Overall: B for the game

By Peed ON

September 8, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

If you all had any brain the FREE MIKE VICK guy is a SPOOF!! Leave the IDIOT alone, good win falcons, I am a saints fan.

By BigDaddyBirdDawg

September 8, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

D., Ryan’s first past was 20 yd. to Jenkins, who turned it into a 62 yd. TD. Ryan’s long ball came later in the game and was lucky that the Lion’s defender was playing the man and not the ball or it would have been a pick. Ryan was truly accurate with his deliveries. Once Kitna saw he could be more effective throwing the ball and convincing the Lions coaching staff to send in plays of that nature…he picked our defense apart and in my opinion it to our defensive coordinator to long to make the adjustment. Our corners were exploited..Grimes especially. on several plays Milloy blew his coverage underneath allowing big gains. He lucked into his Int. the pass was tipped and if he had been in the coverage he should have been on that play, he wouldn’t have been in the lucky spot at the right time. Sometimes I wonder if some of the sports writers at the AJC are actually paying attention when they watch the game or are they to busy ordering drinks and trying to impress the girlies at the sports bar. But all this aside…for a team in rebuild mode…the Birds did well…and if the coaches work on the mistakes made during sundays games as they prepare for next weeks game…they should continue to do well, provided that our offensive and defensive play makers don’t get injured on special teams.

By bobby

September 8, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

This blog should be about the current team. Not about the people who hate Mike Vick or the people that hate the people that hate Mike Vick, or the people that who seem the feel that any black person that gets in trouble is a Thug but never attaches that title to a white person who gets in trouble with the law. Let just get back to the 2008 season!

By CA

September 8, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

WHAT A GAME!!!!!

I would like to express my Thanks to Coach Smith.

You stepped up big time by owning up to the Coaching errors. You are The Man!

Did anybody else notice the Focus and FIRE in Matt Ryan’s Eyes ??

Hey Harvey and Tyson; We did not see you guys dishing out Atomic Knee Drop’s Sunday,,,,,,

Oh thats right Preseason is over and well Dammit Man!

Riggs waving the White Flag to Turner? Priceless, pure class.

Back to Smitty,, Being Ryan’s rookie year dont worry about the Pass/Rush being balanced. This is why you signed Turner. Turner and Norwood can handle the overload this year. By mid Season Matt will naturally take his percentages. Just be patient.

T-Rex? Nuff Said

Law Dog? Our Bird of Prey!

“5’s to our Klingon Warriors

By Southern Born

September 8, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

“Thunder and Lightning” - I like it!

Big salute to the TEAM, and to Smitty and Dimitroff for putting it all together and coaching them up.

By PHIL

September 8, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

The only negative thing I saw was the touchdown just before the half and that was on the coaches. The Lions had no time outs remaining and the Falcons had the ball under two minutes to play in the half. they should have ran the clock out. Instead they ran only a few ticks off with incomplete passes.

But what a difference in organization, play calling and attitude from last year. I am impressed.

By Recent Reader

September 8, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Um … anyone ever think of just not responding to the likes of Free Mike Vick??? Give it a shot for a few days. The negative posters like that are only here to get a rise out of you all. It may be difficult, but simply try and bypass their posts. The points and counterpoints have been made many times already. So don’t throw them any “bones” and they will soon enough go elsewhere to feed!! Or not:)

By terrell barron

September 8, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Michael Vick? Come on people, let it go ! I loved him myself, BUT HE’S NO LONGER A FALCON. When, and if, he comes back to the League, you can root for his new team, if you’re still a fan. I’m sticking with the team that I’ve loved since 1975. But anyway, why did they take that 1/2 sack away from Jamal? That was just wrong. And one more thing, who needs Warrick Dunn when you have Michael”the burner”Turner? Who needs D-Mac when you have Norwood? Who needs Jake Long when you have Sam Baker? Who needs Glen Dorsey when you have Gravy and Babs? Who needs D-Hall’s(mouth) when you have Grimes and Houston? Who needs Forney when you have Harvey Dahl? And I’ll probably get killed by some for saying this, but who needs MV7 when you have Matt Ryan? My offseason grade: A+ (And why is it that MOST of the bloggers think your’re Black when you speak of MV7? Some blacks, including myself, moved on as soon as he was convicted. Also, I’m willing to bet that most of his Jersey sales went to young white kids. Just a thought. Go Birds!

By Recent Reader

September 8, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Good post Terrel Barron. And hey I wouldn’t doubt that many of the “negative” posters may actually be the opposite of what we assume. Like I said earlier - it is very obvious they are just trying to get under everyones skin. Let’s all put the Posting Flee Collars on and get rid of them!!!

By Zach

September 8, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

The only beef I have is with our decision not to eat the ball with a minute left in the first half. I don’t understand why we though we weren’t satisfied with a 21-7 lead with the lions having no time outs.

Coaching was great, but that instance lead to a lions score and made the game closer than it shouldn’t have been.

By FREE MIKE VICK

September 8, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

In case non of you have noticed, Vick is STILL on the roster. I never made race an issue, you white guys did. All I stated was if Vick were still playing, the Falcons would have scored 60 points. I want them to lose all the games because they did not support Vick. That was racially motivated…….

By jeanE

September 8, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

I am very glad they won, still not on the Matt Ryan bandwagon. He managed the game very well & it was a nice pass to Jenks. What about Finn? Robinson? Douglas? Hello?? In future, they will need a more well rounded passing game. Still, the running game was fierce!! Turner is just a beast & Jerious was Jerious, awesome. I can’t believe the Lions didn’t better exploit our young inexperienced corners, how dumb is that? When we come up against a better team & there are many of those, they will be tested. Overall, I’d say B+. There are so many new faces on this team that I feel like I don’t even know my hometown team! It takes me time to get used to new people. Still paging one Jamal Anderson, where are you?????

By Tom Davis

September 8, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Mr. Ledbetter; Matt Ryan did not “allude some rushers”. He “eluded” them. Did you finish third grade?

By kirknga

September 8, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Few people expected a win so you have to grade the win as an A.

Conversation that isn’t focused on this team and this season is a waste of time.

We now know the Falcons are capable of beating a mediocre team at home. Next Sunday we’ll find out if they can beat a playoff caliber team on the road.

I hope the team is rebuilding solid support and not just attracting fair weather fans.

By Spud Webb

September 8, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Steelers fan here but watched the falcons yesterday too! I think the Falcons are going to be very competitive all year. Things we might have thought but now know. The O line is a lot better than anticipated, especially running. If they stay injury free, they will continue to get better. Turner and Norwood are the perfect complements to each other. WR’s a good and will continue to get better. Ryan locks in too much on recievers, but that is true with all new QB’s especially rookies. He will have to learn not to do that, it will cost him with some picks this year, to be expected though. I wanna see the difference between game 1 and game 16 this year, hopefully he’s moving from option to option. Defense, very, very good and will get better. Corners did a respectable job and again will get better. Overall, you’ve gotta be very happy. Love the coaching staff, solid plan and they seem to have this team on the same page, win or lose. Congratulations Falcons and they’re fans.

By allweather fan

September 8, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Great job team. Truly a team effort. I think you will begin to see more out of the passing game the more Ryan adjusts and gets more comfortable in the pocket. I think he had a good outing for his first NFL start. Very poised for a rookie. He will take his lumps though, it will be important to see how he reacts after the bad picks. I am not going to jump the gun and say we win 10 games. This is a rebuilding year with a gutted roster and new coaching staff. We still need help at corner and more depth. I can say I really like were this team is headed in the future. Boy you have to think Dmitroff felt good yesterday with the play of Turner (truly remarkable, reminded me of the old Jamal) and the promise of Ryan.

By Josh

September 8, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Guys, FREE MIKE VICK is baiting you. I guarantee its someone posting that stuff switching names and blasting his own post. Please please stop falling for it and just ignore it. If we really have moved passed this stuff then just let it go. The Falcons are back and looking to the past isn’t just sad, its not important anymore.

By Josh

September 8, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Guys, FREE MIKE VICK is baiting you. I guarantee its someone posting that stuff switching names and blasting his own post. Please please stop falling for it and just ignore it. If we really have moved passed this stuff then just let it go. The Falcons are back and looking to the past isn’t just sad, its not important anymore.

By ulysses

September 8, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

great post terrel barron!until we ignore posters like FREE MIKE VICK they will continue to rant!

By FREE MIKE VICK

September 8, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

KILL WHITEY. OBOMBER FOR PRESIDENT!

By War Eagle

September 8, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

maybe one day, Falcons will prevail as a contender and consist winner.. They are on the right track with Ryan and coaching staff

By Talbott

September 8, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

I agree with the comments with a couple of exceptions: the two minute drill at the end of the first half. We had been running the ball down their throats and we decided to pass on 2 and 3 downs, thus killing the clock and giving Detroit the opportunity to get back into the game. This could of been huge, I condsider it a major coaching mistake. Pass defense needs more help from the linebackers and defensive line, several balls were thrown down the middle and the D-line did get three sacks but that is the worse O-line in the league and we did not get enough pressure.

By This Gets Old

September 8, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

To ajc.com: This is how some newspapers handle their blogs. Why you allow these types of posts puzzles me. You must want the nastiness and hatred. Change it or shut the blogs down. Some of us would like to focus on Falcons football.

Acceptable Use The Detroit News does not tolerate offensive language in its forums. Once you register, your posts go up automatically, but we kill offensive posts that are brought to our attention. Users who violate our acceptable use policy can and will be denied access. See a problem? Tell us.

By FREE MIKE VICK

September 8, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Cynthia Tucker is a thug like me

By This Gets Old

September 8, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Recent Reader:

“Um … anyone ever think of just not responding to the likes of Free Mike Vick???”

Yeah, I’ve been trying to get people to not do it for years. No other city has a major news outlet that would allow what ajc. does. The constant stories about Vick and his financial and legal issues that are constantly in the sports section feed it and ajc knows it.

So many people come here and post under different names. Actually arguing with themselves. The post last week that had “dis” and “dat” that was supposedly from a black person. If someone knows how to type then they’re not using that language.

The only conclusion is that ajc doesn’t care or they want the turmoil.

By Chris

September 8, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

With such low expectations from the media and others you have to give the over team effort an A+. The reason the Lions got back in the game though is not the defense’s fought as much as it was poor clock management from the coaches. The Lions had no time outs before halftime. I would have ran out the clock and went in to the half with a 21-7 lead. I am proud of the Falcons though because you couldn’t have scripted a better start to the season. This is only the beginning of the official end of the Michael Vick era. We actually have a QB that can hit his receivers in stride with much greater accuracy. We also will have a top three running attack in the NFL f the O-Line Blocks that good all year

By Chris

September 8, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

With such low expectations from the media and others you have to give the over team effort an A+. The reason the Lions got back in the game though is not the defense’s fought as much as it was poor clock management from the coaches. The Lions had no time outs before halftime. I would have ran out the clock and went in to the half with a 21-7 lead. I am proud of the Falcons though because you couldn’t have scripted a better start to the season. This is only the beginning of the official end of the Michael Vick era. We actually have a QB that can hit his receivers in stride with much greater accuracy. We also will have a top three running attack in the NFL f the O-Line Blocks that good all year

By Buck

September 8, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

I would have liked to have seen more upfield movement by our front four.

By jay

September 8, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

I’ve been a Falcons fan all my life and was thrilled with Sunday. The one thing: Instead of running out the clock with a minute plus left in the first half, they tried to get cute. After a second down pass was incomplete, they should have run the ball and took almost all the time off the clock. A third down incompletion cost the Falcons a 2 touchdown lead going into half. The coaches need to be smarter, even though it’s extremely satisfying to see the overall direction of the team. Worse to First - Who knows? It happens every year in the South!

By uga girls are usually FAT

September 8, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Anybody seen those “start Shockley” ingrates? Wow. Those people vanished FAST.

By BT

September 8, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Because of the end of the first half blunder the coaching staff should have received an A minus. Has the staff openly admitted this was an error?

By Ted Bowers

September 8, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Where is Steve Wyche????

By This Gets Old

September 8, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Steve Wyche is at NFL.com.

By Little

September 8, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

If Vick were white and Ryan were black the roles would be reversed. RYAN would be in prison and Vick would be throwing touchdowns for the falcons and he would be the golden boy. Everyone is hatin on Vick because he is black and no other reason. Race has everything to do with everything. DJ Shockley did not get to start a pre-season game because he is black (even after the coaches promised all 4 qb’s that they coyuld start a game). The team traded Hall becahse of his race and they did not like the “uppity black man” speaking his mind and defending MIKE VICK, teh greatest Falcon ever. Mike Vick made this franchise what it is. It weas NOTHING before him, Vick will probably be the first Falcon EVER to make it to the NFL Hall of Fame except they will probably keep him out because it is run by WHITE PEOPLE like Arthur Blank. IF MIKE VICK were still here, he would have ran for over 300 yards on that week sauce detroit defense and the faclons probablee would have scored 65 points. Buit instead, everyone is focusing on Matt Ryan, the great white hope, because he is white.

LONG LIVE VICK the best Faclon ever (who is still on the team by the way).

It will be too bad for Ryan when Vick comes back and takes his rightful spot as starting QB with DJ Shockley the back-up and Obama as President!!

YES WE CAN!

By KB

September 8, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

I want the Atlanta fans to see what a good performance from the offensive line can do for a team. Where was this line three years ago?

Ryan is going to be tested soon enough. I still would keep my eye open for a decent vet….

By eazy

September 8, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

the played a sorry team

By lgd

September 8, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I hope when vick gets out the team will put him back to work he could be like a souped up warrack dunn. we have a QB

By FREE MIKE VICK

September 8, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

thug life 4ever homies!

By JCSmalls

September 8, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

I was very proud of how the Falcons played as a team yesterday and I really love the direction that this franchise is headed. No reason to pay attention to stupid people trying to “race bait” us true Falcon fans into a fight. I still think that we will only win 6 or 7 games, but all I am looking for this year is movement in the right direction….So far, So good…Go Falcons!!!!

By WATCH YOUR DVR TO SEE THE GAME PASSING POOR BROOKING

September 8, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

THE GAME IS STARTING TO TO PUT MY MAIN MAN BROOKING TO PASTURE! HE WAS LOST AND MISSING ASSIGNMENTS AND TACKLES ALL OVER THE FIELD. DEFENSE MUST GET SOME BETTER LINE-BACKER PLAY IN THE MIDDLE VERSUS THE PASS AND GET SOME PASS RUSH FROM THE MASSIVE J. ANDERSON SIDE(THE WORST PLAYER ON THE DEFENSE). PLEASE WRAP UP ON YOUR TACKLES WHEN YOU GET TO THE 2ND HALF?

By JCSmalls

September 8, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Little - MIKE VICK, teh greatest Falcon ever. Mike Vick made this franchise what it is Little must stand for Little Brain and Little Football knowledge. Did you realize that Matt Ryan lead the Falcons to 3 straight TD drives….Something Mike Vick never did. You are right about 1 thing…Mike Vick did make the Falcons the laughing stock of the Sports worlds last year….Thanks Mike for getting things turned around and heading in the right direction.

By saint

September 8, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure of the exact time left for the Falcons towards the end of the first half, but I thought we could not run for successive first downs without passing. If the Lions were sure we weren’t going to pass, they would have bottled up the run, but passing down there is really dangerous, and it does kill the clock.

Like Dungy says, the defensive backs cannot stop a passing attack by themselves. They have to have an aggressive defensive line intimidating the QB, making him hurry and miss his throws. So pass defense starts with the DL.

So Abraham takes care of one side, but Anderson can’t handle the other. Even if he is at tackle, he is immobile. I like Biermann, but he needs to add about 15# or more, as he was being handled by the Lions big boys, but he did get thru some.

Grimes was so elated by the win that he has grown 3 inches taller.

It’s great to have Coaches that are on the same page, and can manage the game. Mularkey manages, Ryan and the RB’s execute!

By stop the hate

September 8, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

HOW DOES SUCH STUPID IGNORANT ARTICLES GET THROUGH THE AJC FILTER ?????? RACIST OF ALL KINDS STAY OFF THE BLOGS YOU IDOTS!!!

By Falcon to the bone

September 8, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

The real stars of the game were Abraham and Turner, both black. Ryan played super for a rookie’s first game, but average for a QB. How could anything be about race? Everyone loved Vick. He let us all down, his family too, by being immature and hanging on to childish ways long after he had become a millionare and celebrity. AJC, please filter anymore blogs that contain references to Vick. Let’s please move on.

By Wil

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

for you idiots that think anyone who post a message and user name or support Mick Vick has to be black then you are really dumber than the person who made the post anyway. Lets stick to the subject and leave you personnel thoughts, hopes and dreams of demeaning black people to your self you racist b*******

By DMac

September 8, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

This Lions Team maybe better than what we think right now. Calvin and Roy are going to give every corner they face trouble. In light of that I thought we did great in the secondary. Our test will be next week at Tampa. If we put on a similar performance then all predictions for this season are out the window. Great job by the the coaching staff. Mike Malarky could be the best OC we have ever had… Time will tell. Moving John Abraham around was great. Overall A.

By jerry

September 8, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

The best way to deal with people who make racists remarks on this blog whether they are black, white, purple, or green is to ignore them and they will just go away.

By Daryl

September 8, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Falcons fans shouldn’t get to excited quite yet. After having a chance to observe other teams around the leaque via television, I don’t see the falcons winning any more games this year, except maybe one other-St.Louis Rams. Most teams don’t allow other teams in the NFL to run on him as well as Atlanta did yesterday.The Lions were pathetic on run defense. This is the only reason the falcons was able to win. The falcons will probably end the season 1-15 as predicted by most sport analysts. Any thing more that 3-and 13 would be a miracle.

By Exodus Mentality

September 8, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Ryan is a Rook so I give him a better grade (A-) than he would otherwise deserve. Must stop staring down his receivers, must get rid of the deep ball faster, the one to Roddy was under thrown and should have been 6 more. His first pass was the best all day. Keep working on that pocket presence.

Running game (A+) however I am highly p** that the coaches didn’t get Jerious back out there for 7 more yards so we could have 200/100 running backs. J-Rock deserved that 100 in the ground game, although he got well over that if you add return yards.

WR (A) They caught everything, they got separation, they blocked down field (Roddy might have held on just a little bit too long). They must keep up the good work, and coaches must get them more involved.

O-Line (A++) they get extra credit because nobody, and I mean nobody, thought they could do even half of what they did. The one sack was all Matt Ryan’s fault for stepping into a defender who had been blocked into the ground,

D-line (B+) Great in the run game, not so great in the pass rush, 3 sacks but very few hurries. They could have gotten an A but their conditioning leaves a little to be desired. Granted, even with 300+ rushing yards the Falcons did not win time of possession, but the line gets shuffled and you have to be ready to play at least half a game.

LB (B-) I’m concerned that this LB core is too slow to cover anyone over the middle. They are great in run support, but tight ends and RB are going to get away from them. Especially Brook. Is there a solution, other than more pressure on the QB? Could be this season’s weak link.

Cornerbacks (B-) Simply because I only saw one instance of significant yards after the catch. They were there every time. Roy pushed off on his TD catch, worse than the one they actually called him for. The CB’s can’t help being short, which is why they will probably never get an A this year. But they can stay on my good side if they continue to play hard and be there, and stop the dumb penalties in the endzone (part of which is a coaching problem)

Safeties (B) They made some plays. that’s their job. They make a few more, and we got a 34-7 blowout and they get an A. Should get better fastest of any defensive unit.

Special Teams (A) Nice hitting on coverage, NO PENALTIES on return teams (probably should have earned A+ for that alone). Need a little more flash from the punt returner and that means better blocking from that unit.

Coaching (B+) all of these guys get lumped in together. Head coach gets an A for motivating this team after all the distractions. Offensive coordinator gets a C for the boneheaded play-calling in the two minute drill and for even going two minute drill in that situation. I believe we had time outs. Sticking with the run game might have gotten us close enough for an end of the half field goal. I don’t believe in playing conservative, but I do believe in playing smart and your RB’s were ripping off 10-15 yards a pop at the time Defensive coordinator gets a B for making do with short corners and slow linebackers. Could have gotten an A, but I hate anything that even looks like a prevent defense and that’s what gave the Lions their final touchdown of the first half. Needs to dial up some more pressure or grades will start falling and team will start losing. And stop playing short corners 10 yards off the ball in the red zone. They have no choice but to interfere with taller receivers who are free to run off the line.

Owner (A) Cause I likes me some Arthur Blank, because anything would be an improvement over the Smiths, and because he came down to the field like he always does, in spite of the dummies who think he should stay in his box. The man obviously loves his team. If I owned the Falcons (or rather when I own the Falcons) I plan to do exactly the same thing.

O-line is the MVP of this game, (sorry Turner and Norwood, but we already knew what you could do; the line shocked us into this decision)

By nappy haired

September 8, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

FREE MIKE VICK, ur just another ignorant hube. Get the h.ll out of Atlanta please you and all you kind so we can enjoy the Falcons. I will pay your way.

By NYC Falcon

September 8, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

318 yards rushing, son! Gotta give some love to the WRs blocking downfield for Jerious and MT!

New regime looks focused. Haven’t seen that since early 80’s Falcons. Should be a fun year watching these guys improve.

By Wally

September 8, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

To all of you “free Mike Vick fans” why don’t you move to Cleveland and go to the dog pound and eat a big ‘BISCUIT”. Anyone like you are profiled as a big beer drinker, wife beater, own a pit bull and is very stupid.

By The Dean 21

September 8, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

It appears to me that FOOTBALL is the point of racism in Atlanta. You don’t have these idiots on the Thrashers, Hawks and Braves blogs. The Falcons seem to attract these poetic monsters that prey on the AJC Falcon message boards. Hopefully, the Federal Government can take over these AJC blogs.

By The Dean 21

September 8, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

It appears to me that FOOTBALL is one of many subject matters of racism in Atlanta. You don’t have these idiots posting on the Thrashers, Hawks and Braves blogs. The Falcons and it’s players seem to attract these poetic monsters that prey on the AJC Falcon message boards. Hopefully, the Federal Government can take over these AJC blogs and lower the idiot rate.

By falcon

September 8, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Why all the hate on Brent Grimes? The kid played his butt off. I don’t think he was the one who got beat in the corner of the end zone. Most of the completed passes were underneath the coverage and against the nickel package. Leave the kid alone. He’s got alot of talent, and he’s got alot of heart. And he’s don’t have a mouth like DHall.

By Jason

September 8, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

**I LOVE READING AND RESPONDING TO FUN BLOGS ABOUT OUR HOME TEAMS, AND THEN I READ ALL OF THIS CRAP. BLACK RACIAL SLURS, WHITE RACIAL SLURS. ITS REALLY SAD AND IM EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED. BUT THAT’S JUST LIFE IN GENERAL…5-10% OF FANS/BLOGGERS ARE ALWAYS GOING TO GO FOR THE EXTREME TO GET A RISE OUT OF PEOPLE. REALLY SUCKS BECAUSE WE HAD SUCH A GREAT WEEKEND AS A CITY AND STATE. FALCONS, GT AND UGA ALL WITH BIG WINS, AND THE IGNORANT FANS COME OUT OF THE WOODSHED TO POST THEIR THOUGHTS AND SKEWED OPINIONS.

I COULDN’T HAVE BEEN PROUDER OF THE FALCONS YESTERDAY. CONGRATS TO THE FRONT OFFICE, COACHING STAFF AND TEAM. TURNER AND OL WAS THE MVP AND EVERYONE ELSE PLAYED REALLY WELL. I THINK WE’VE ONLY SEEN THE TIP OF THE ICEBURG WITH MR2. LOOKING FORWARD TO TAMPA BAY NEXT WEEKEND. HOPE THE BLOG CLEANS UP SOME, BUT I’M SURE IT WON’T. THE AJC NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR A LOT OF THESE GETTING THROUGH.**

GO FALCONS!

By L.T.

September 8, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

They just do not get it? Brooking can not play 100 percent of the defensive snap. I have watched to many games that Brookings, key mis-tackle as caused the game to turn, if Lofton, is the middlelinebacker then play him on the goal-line. Brooking, usual first step always take himself out of the play TOUCHDOWN LIONS!!!!!! Please watch the trailing of plays, it was obvious he is to slow, no Pop to his tackle… and I will say it again put him in the middle and we will Lose………… Play the Rookies…….

By JoeBrave

September 8, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

Very Good game Yesterday.Probably the Best game on T.V. other than the Bears-Colts. Turner-Norwood,Pure pain for a lot of defenses. Matt Ryan,some Growing pains Yet, But that Kid Shut some people Up!!! and the O-Line,good to see some Beef!!! Love the Intensity,love the Passion… GO Birds!!!

By JoeBrave

September 8, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

And FreeMikeVick,Why don’t You get Yourself another Hero,there are plenty of so-called Black Athletes on the Falcons,Say a Man with Class,and Humility Someone like Oh Michael Turner,Ovie Mughelli,Lawyer Milloy,Roddy White,Jerious Norwood,these Men,Real Men,have someting Mike Vick will never have,Class!!! On top of that it’s a pleasure to hear somone that can speak intellectually,and not Mutilate the English Language… I don’t think You’ll find Either of these Guys Hanging around P-Funk,or running with a Posse!!! Face it Vick is /was a good athlete here,a QB well tha’s Questionable,I doubt very seriously that Roddy white just learned how to play His position,Jenks,or Finns either.. Just Support this Team,and when Your Hero Felon gets out go Root Your @ss off for Him…. But Please,get a life until then… Maybe Little Jimmy Moron will give him a shot Next Year!!!

By JoeBrave

September 8, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Oh,and one More Thing,Black is not a color!!! it is absolutely devoid of color!!! Please get an IQ before You post here again!!!

By JoeBrave

September 8, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

G-Money,You don’t speak for all of us so-called whitey’s,Boy I’d like to Drag Your Sorry carcass from the Bumper of My Truck… This aint 1960,You Worthless Rotten Dirtbag….. And Yes Ol Joe is White!!! But one of Joe’s Best Friends is of Darker Skin Tone,I refuse to acknowledge the Word Black,Because My friend has Color.

By saint

September 8, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

AJC monitors should block racial posts! Most sites like clean blogs. Do it!

By Kevin

September 8, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

i think however it was easy for the falcons to get up for this game and for a week i can be a proud falcons fan…however, next week is a big division game against Tampa. The falcons never seem to play well against Tampa and this will be a true test to see if the falcons are really contenders…

and to expand on my earlier post…im sorry i brought race into the discussion, but by personal experience it is primarily blacks that support vick and believe he did nothin wrong…i have heard countless black people say he is a victim of the “white man”, and it is to these people that i direct that statement. I am in no way a racsist and do not mean to stereotype, im just speaking from experience

By Realist

September 8, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

Anybody watching Meangelo blowing it in Oakland? It ‘s like an instant replay of last year in Atlanta. Two personal fouls in a row = 30 yards. How can this guy not learn? And how smart does Dimetroff look now?

By Chuck

September 8, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

Vick is in jail where he belongs. The dome isn’t there yet but as more and more of the “gangster” crowd goes back to whatever rock they crawled out from, the dome will become a place to watch a football game. What a novel idea, go to a football stadium and watch football. All law abiding, courteous and well mannered fans are welcome to join us.

By JoeBrave

September 8, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

G-Money,You are a Punk!!!A Coward!!!,and Useless as nips on a boar hog!!! What a piece of Dung You Are!!! Some People like FreeMikevick deserve to be berated, but I swear if You ever called My friend that I would Whip your @ss myself!!!

By ray

September 9, 2008 6:08 AM | Link to this

Guys, there is no filter, for those of you who keep yelling for one. Certain words, if spelled out correctly without punctuation in between, are the only “filtered” things. You can request to have a post removed by writing to the AJC, but that’s about it. As bad as it gets around here sometimes, censorship is still probably not something you want….just sayin’….

Realist, never liked “MeAngelo”. He’s right where he belongs in Oakland with his over-priced, over-hyped self. The guy is a highly talented moron. Did it sound like I contradicted myself? Well I didn’t. He’s talented alright, but his talent just does not match the hype…

It was indeed a mistake not to just run the clock down towards the end of the first half. I don’t think Smith/Mularkey will make the same mistake twice. I think Tampa Bay is going to force my pass plays, and Ryan is going to experience true backfield pressure. The O line knows this, and as Todd McClure said, they have to go out and prove that the Detroit win wasn’t a fluke. I expect the team to be competitive. Hoping for a win, but recognizing the talent of the opponent and the location of the game.

The defense has to get better. Our D-Line (with the exception of Abraham) needs help. They did alright against the run, but they really need to help our little corners out with some good pressure up front. We’ll see what happens….especially when things aren’t going right or well…this can happen, especially against good teams.

By D.Ellis

September 9, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this

To all the Falcon fans who were in love with D-Hall but Blinded by the fact he was wearing a Falcon helmet….I hope you guys/gals got a good look at WHAT A TRUE MEDIOCRE CORNER BACK IN THE NFL DEANGELO HALL IS. MEDIOCRE AT BEST. HE IS HOT DOO DOO WHO GOT TAKEN TO THE WOOD SHED AND GOT THE BEATEN OF THE WEEK.

By cee

September 9, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

A LL BIT OFF THE FALCONS DID ANYBODY SEE THE RAIDERS BRONCOS GAME??? THE ROOKIE # 19 EDDIE ROYAL WAS USING MEANGELO HALL LIKE A CONDOM AT A PROTISTUTE PARTY I MEAN ALL GAME THIS ROOKIE WAS RUNNING CIRCLES AROUND HALL.. IM GLAD WE DID GET RID OF HIM

By Ramblin Wrecker

September 9, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the Falcons coaching staff and Thomas Dmitrov for building a group of players and schemes that are going to work in the NFL. But let’s also give credit for the addition by subtraction of the whining prima donnas that are gone now. Meangelo Hall is now helping the Raiders self destruct from within, getting schooled by ironically enough a rookie WR from VT and committing 2 15-yard personal foul penalties. So it aint just Steve Smith who can beat Hall like a drum and get under his skin, it’s rookies too. And as an ACC fan I can tell you that while Eddie Royal is decent, he is not a TO, Moss, Marvin Harrison, Chad Johnson level of WR. Hall is just that beatable. But I guess carrying an ego like that on your back can slow down even 4.29 speed. Good riddance. And good riddance to all the complainers who were in Atlanta last season. You are not missed.

By alan

September 9, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

our corners will be just fine, roy williams made an hell of a catch over brent that only he could get. even a taller corner couldnt have got that one. they were on them all night. i will expect a similar game against tampa since its the same scheme down there. we wont rush for no dam 300+ yards but should be up there tho. that game was far from a fluke. this o-line is just being to physical with the opponent, i see them nonstop till the play is over. that will wear a defender down a lot quicker. our defense will become solid trust me on that. its the first game of the season and you still have to get the rest of the kinks out and let it become more natrual. they were running a lot of 3 WR sets and still couldnt run. our defense will be solid. turner will challenge LT for the rushing titile. it sounds a little crazy but just watch, he runs so dam hard that when you hit him you automatically bounce right off him. this offense is more explosive then i thought. i thought matt did a good job managing the game and made some good throws. i loved that play action to white, he put it where only his man could get it which was right on the money, who said he doesnt have the long ball accuracy? thanks experts on your wise advice.

i look for a winning season if we stay healthy( hell maybe a wildcard finish ) jeff garcia and brooks are hurt. so good luck passing the ball, and stopping our running attack.

By Denigalo Hall

September 9, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

I show am glad I could bring some of my thuglife style to Oakland. Man, I’m soooooo fine, y’all.

By terrell barron

September 9, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

D.Hall cant even stay with Eddie Royal. A 2nd rd rookie. lol!!! Talking about OVERRATED.

By Spud Webb

September 9, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

MEANGELO that was classic last night. Another melt down because he can’t handle getting beat, ahahhahaah. Remember when he was melting down here in the ATL?? Good bye MEANGELO and thanks for eating up cap space in Oakland, that team sucks. He thought things were bad here? Glad we got a second rounder for him, his stock is plummeting now. ahahhahhah, LOSER.

By meangelo

September 9, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

Man those were bad calls. I thought I played pretty good. People are always picking on me because Im b.l.a.c.k. Im the best CB in the NFL. Thats why they pay me the big bucks!

By DC Dawg

September 9, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

First off I’m am real proud of the Falcons because of the way they played Sunday.They played very tough and aggressively.The coaches had a great game plan.Michael Turner is more than I thought and hoped he could be.As for al of you racially motivated people there is no reason to mention M.V. anymore just like it not necessary to use racial slurs to attack people. The Falcons did not turn their backs on M.V. please remember he pled GUILTY.What we know is about the water bottle, smoking a joint in a limo, flipping off the Fans,spreading a social eisease. This is just what we know about.Lets move on please,let’s show the team that we have moved on just like I’m sure they have. The ones that have not have moved out thank goodness.Oh by the way D.Hall you looked Great last night against the Broncos. You went off again and blamed the refs for that thirty yards in penalities, sound familiar? We have a new Q-back new Running back, new GM New Coaches MOVE ON PLEASE and get over it. GO FALCONS

By Ken Strickland

September 9, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Tampa Bay is a team that relys primarily on its DEF to win gms. Their OFF is rather bread and butter and isn’t dynamic in any way. They like to run the ball, control the clock and let their DEF make big plays. Based on preseason and opening gm results, they’ll be very busy trying to devise ways to stop our rushing attack without being vulnerable to big pass plays.

If they don’t stop Turner and Noorwood early, our OL will wear them down. This gm will be an early test of how good we are or can be, especially since we’re playing them on the road. This OFF is not QB driven, so you can forget all that MVick vs MRyan crap. This win was a team win and a team effort. Anyone that can’t see that needs to check into a RACIST REBAB center or a MORONS OR US facility.

GOOOOOOOO DIRTY BIRDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Reggie

September 9, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Look im black and Mike Vick is still my favorite player but its time to move on. I was a Falcon fan before I was a Vick fan so I support the team. I dont like how people attack him because he is paying foe his actions. As far as the team not supporting him thats bogus—remember on the Monday night game when the Falcons allowed players to wear Free Mike Vick shirts, does Arthur Blank not write him? We cant cancel the season and picket out side of Levenworth. When Mike gets out he will be fine,he will play again[in another city] but lets continue to support the team. Im proud of my boys and lets not make this a black white issue, there are plenty of other black and white guys on the roster—we even got a Japanese guy on the international roster so everybody just chill and LETS GO BIRDS!