Quarterly Report: The Big Fix

By BASEBALL KEN

September 29, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are o.k., 500 ball after the the first quarter,is a step in the right direction. Ryan’s play is good and he will get better, Turner doesn’t seem to have the speed portrayed in San Diego. Babineaux is excelling opposite of big Grady. We need a catching TE,a big corner and physical weakside LB, Brooking is looking older. 8-8 is a possible.

By BASEBALL KEN

September 29, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are o.k., 500 ball after the the first quarter,is a step in the right direction. Ryan’s play is good and he will get better, Turner doesn’t seem to have the speed portrayed in San Diego. Babineaux is excelling opposite of big Grady. We need a catching TE,a big corner and physical weakside LB, Brooking is looking older. 8-8 is a possible.

By norman

September 29, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

The Falcons looked good against weaker teams of Detroit and K.C., but looked terrible against Tampa bay and Carolina, especially troubling is no deep passes tried against Carolina. Get ready for a long season because better teams on schedule await falcons. Did anyone notice that Mattie Ice is starting to have happy feet? shades of Bartkowski days. Maybe two more wins at best for rest of season, then wait until next year begins!

By Ryder

September 29, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Falcons: World beaters at home, get beat silly on the road. Ok, not the most thorough analysis but it’s the truth.

Ryan has done well considering the circumstances in which he entered. I do believe he’s going to be a solid NFL QB provided his receivers can hold on to the ball. He’s already become a leader in the huddle and that was the biggest obstacle to overcome. Everything else will fall in place.

Turner doesn�t seem to have the speed portrayed in San Diego? You’re kidding, right? He has been nothing short of electrifying since coming over from SD. He and Norwood will become a force as the offensive line gets better overall.

We all knew the defense would be shaky, especially in the secondary, but there are parts to build around in Abraham, Lofton and Babineaux. I do believe the majority of next year’s draft will be about upgrading the D.

Overall I’m still seeing 6-10 this year and the major steps needed to get to the next level will occur in the offseason (Cornerback, Defensive Tackle, LB)

By Ben

September 29, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

They’re terrible….. Two wins against two of the worst teams in the league. Play a playoff bound team & they look lost. Lets see what the next 3-4 games brings. Probably 3-4 defeats.

By brandon

September 29, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

they haven’t looked good against good teams, but they have looked good against bad teams. i think they might be in a little more trouble than the 2-2 record demonstrates. they have only won against bad teams.

By Jim

September 29, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Barring injury, we could do ok this year. Can the weaknesses be fixed? Our run blocking is sub-par. Our receivers drop too many passes, and the defensive secondary is too porous. Is it players or scheme? We look a lot better in all other areas than last year.

By Shane

September 29, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Penalties are a killer. I think Smith needs to get a clarification from the league on what holding is, because, those two calls on Dahl did not look like holding…just good blocking. I agree with you on Boley what is up with him ? The secondary is talented and will get better. I am disappointed in Jamal Anderson he needs to do allot more. Overall I think they will get better through the year and Ryan will end up being the best player Atlanta has ever drafted, besides Favre and Deion.

By richbrave

September 29, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

RYDER:

Finding hope in the FALCONS franchise and frustration in the HAWKS.? Just askin’.

By Peachtree John

September 29, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

2-2 is better than any of us have a right to expect. Ryan appears to be capable and will get better with time. When you consider all the bad things that we went through last year, and when you consider the new hires since then, we should be elated. The organization of the new staff is apparent: that is welcomed. The players seem to want to accomplish as a group, and for the group: that is welcomed. At least we have hope. While the faithful have tried to see hope for years, hope now appears to have a foundation. Carry on.

By diehard

September 29, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

THE FALCONS NEED TO USE ALL THEIR WEAPONS, NOT JUST TURNER AND NORWOOD TIGHT ENDS FULL BACKS TO MAKE PLAYS SEEMS LIKE THE OLD DAN REEVES STYLE 1 2 PUNCH AND NO SURPRISES GO FOR IT EARLY FIELD GOALS IS A FAILURE UNLESS U HAVE TOUCHDOWNS TO ADD GAME PLANS PLAY CALLS SUCKS THE WHOLE NATIONS KNOWS THE PLAY SOON AS OFFENSE LINES UP U CAN STAY WITH THE RUN ,JUST CHANGE HOW ITS DONE REVERSE TRICK PLAYS TO THROW YOUR RIVARY OFF

By Jack

September 29, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

The Falcons are playing better than expected by any REASONABLE fan. The team is in year ONE of rebuilding. Since there is NO CHANCE of winning a Super Bowl this year, what does it matter? The more losses the better the draft picks for next year, when we should definitely be much improved. I like the talent evaluation skills Thomas Dimitroff has brought to the Falcons. You won’t see the bust picks(Jamal Anderson, Michael Jenkins,MeAngelo) in first-round picks,we saw from McKay.Free agent signings were terrible under McKay too(Hartwell,Crocker,Harrington to name a few)The FUTURE will be bright.PATIENCE is a VIRTUE (that, unfortunately, most Falcons “fans” don’t possess)

By saint

September 29, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

When the receivers got Happy Hands, and Carolina loaded up the line, Ryan joined in with Happy Feet. For good reason: look at the size and speed of the Panthers, in a couple of years we may be like that.

So Smith tried Turner and he could go nowhere, and then tried to pass, and a bunch of catchables were dropped. When that happened, the game was over.

By Blake

September 29, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

The biggest dissapointment for me was the dropped balls against Carolina. It is hard enough to win with a learning rookie at quarterback, even more so when you factor in you are a rebuilding team, but the “veteran” recievers must step up and catch the damn ball when Ryan makes the throws! My grade through the first four games: C-

By Jimbo

September 29, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Falcons are about where you’d expect. Beat the weak teams and loose to the better teams. This team does not have the ability to close out drives and put the ball in the end zone. 20 to 20 good but you can’t rely on field goals alla Dan Reeves and Morten Anderson to win on a consistant basis. Best case is 4-5 wins all at home pick up another top 10 draft pick in ‘09 and continue the building process. I am willing to wait and watch the developement with Coach Smith and Thomas Dimitroff.

By falcon4life

September 29, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Three things: 1) We have got to tackle better, even in the wins our tackling is dismal. 2) Murlarkey and Ryan have got to make more out of the mistakes teams give us; i.e. when we have a 1st and 5 on their side of the field, that play call should include a go route at an attempted touchdown. I like our chances of picking up 5 on two plays with our running game. 3) We are scoring in the red zone off runs right now, but don’t forget that Finn is 6’5. Throw it up and let him go get it.

By Vick Supporter

September 29, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Lol, what a funny a* game. Matt Ryan looked HORRIBLEm, just like I predicted, and you people are making excuses for him, like I predicted. �Its the reciever�s fault� I guess is your excuse for Matt �Field Goal� Ryan for this week. Last I heard, he supposed to have great touch and accuracy, Vick looked a whole lot better to me, and deep down, you people know it.

You people blamed Vick for this very thing, yet you make excuses for Ryan. Matt Ryan is no Mike Vick. like I�ve always said�� No Vick = Losing Season. Matt Ryan = Losing Season

By Vick Supporter

September 29, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Lol, what a funny a* game. Matt Ryan looked HORRIBLEm, just like I predicted, and you people are making excuses for him, like I predicted. �Its the reciever�s fault� I guess is your excuse for Matt �Field Goal� Ryan for this week. Last I heard, he supposed to have great touch and accuracy, Vick looked a whole lot better to me, and deep down, you people know it.

You people blamed Vick for this very thing, yet you make excuses for Ryan. Matt Ryan is no Mike Vick. like I�ve always said�� No Vick = Losing Season. Matt Ryan = Losing Season

By Houston Texans

September 29, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Atlanta fans have no idea of what a good QB plays like, you sent us Matt Fraud, because my team listened to you idiots whine about how great he is and he needs to be the starter, well guess what!!!!

Matt Frauds QB rating is worse than Matt Ryan�s!!!!!!

WOW

Where are all the bloggers screaming about Starting Matt Fraud when you had Mike Vick? Oh yeah you�re the same idiots claiming Ryan will be great!

By PR

September 29, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Everyone says, falcons won only against terrible teams like Lions & Chiefs….Guess what.. Didn’t Chiefs beat broncos on Sunday ? … I think falcons doing well. Once, Ryan settles down, falcons will win on road as well.

By htwo0rider

September 29, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter, you are a jackass. Just to qualify what I”m about to say, I was a Vick supporter until the pitbull disgrace. It makes me sad for Mike, because he had the world at his feet, and we may never see another talent like him. Matt is a rookie playing in his first year, while Mike sat on the bench his first season like most rookie QBs. The receivers dropped seven passes yesterday. Feel free to give Matt a chance. Mike’s not a Falcon anymore, and probably never will be. If you’re a true Falcons fan, you’ll support the birds.

By maddoxh

September 29, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

To me the playbook seems to be very limited. How about passing to Norwood in the flat. It would take some pressure off White and Jenkins. How about running at least one screen with Turner. Maybe more cross and slant routes for receivers. Seems to me that they are running the same plays every week. The Falcons have a hard schedule this year. We need to at least try a mixture of things and develop what works best.

By Randy

September 29, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

To the Vick people…..get over it, he put himself into the position that he’s in and he’s not coming back. As for the Falcons, this is a team that is 3-4 players from being a playoff team. Next year if we sign a couple of key free agents and have a good draft we’ll love what we see !

By elephanthead

September 29, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

This game was decided where all football games are decided - between the tackles. What I saw was Turner hitting the line quicker than usual because the Falcons O Line was getting pushed backwards and allowing penetration. He could barely get started. Turner has good speed, but he does not start quickly - he needs a few steps. We are gonna need to draft another tackle high next year. The defensive line is mediocre as well. They got owned by an O Line missing 2 starters - thats pretty sorry. Grady does take up 2 guys, but he can’t drive through doubles and put pressure on the QB. Abraham can’t do it all, and as for J Anderson, jeez. Might as well identify the guys drafted by McKay and just get em traded. Anderson and Houston are apparently not going to produce and are going to have to be replaced - hopefully by someone who can tackle.

By TheManMike

September 29, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Matt Shaub is old news. Mike Vick is old news. who cares?

No one is blogging about Shaub, well, because he plays in Houston - who gives a sh1t.

People will blog about vick because he was an amazing athlete and will be back on some level, NFL or AFL so there is a story there that matters on some level.

We blog about our guys who played Sunday….go to Houstons blog shmuck.

Go Birds!

By Rick

September 29, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

If you told me back in July that the Falcons would be 2-2 after September, I would have taken it in a heartbeat.

Everyone said how bad Matt Ryan was going to be. The line has kept him upright and he only has 2 INT’s so far. Matt Ryan is exceeding my expectations. He was not helped out by his receivers at all against Carolina.

I would like to see more throws down field. I’m not sure if that’s on him or the play calling.

Oh yes, and to everyone who questions his arm strength, just shut up and watch the highlight from the K.C. game. It’s not even an argument.

By Bob K in NC

September 29, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

I was wondering why they did not use the fullback during the Carolina game? Is he inhyred?

By 1falconfan

September 29, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Ithinkthefalcons willbefine just have too give them time I been a fan for44years and will always be regardless

By Bo

September 29, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith and the Team are doing better than everyone thought. They will only get better. I love the new attitude and Team concept. Ryan will get better, he’s all ready good!

Thank the Lord all the Big Mouths and dead wood is gone.

Vick Supporter: All I blame Vick for is being so stupid as to fight dogs and hang with the wrong group to get in trouble. I hope one day he returns to NFL but not the Falcons.

God bless you all!

By Frank

September 29, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

They need to get Turner in space because the line can’t move anyone with consistency. Ryan gets too nervous too quick. Let him roll right. Get rid of Jennings. Use Finneran in red zone only. Tell the coaches to keep listening to the critics and adjust.

By Hamp

September 29, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

I have said this on these blogs before, Deion Sanders could not cover a reciever for 8 seconds we have no pass rush unless Abe gives us some I was pulling for Jamal but he seems more and more like a BUST. Babs seems to be getting better and we have a core for the future we are a young team. The DBs are sufficent if you could just get a pass rush. The offense is hot and cold to many 3 and outs which stress the defense, the NFLs best defense will lose if it spends most to the game on the field.

By Ryder

September 29, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Hey, how about Vick going to Houston to replace Matt Schaub in a few years? Or maybe Vince Young since he won’t be in Tennessee much longer if the Titans keep winning with Collins at QB?

RICHBRAVE, my man! What’s going on? Sad as it may be, I do find more hope in the Falcons than I do the Hawks right now. You know of my disdain for Mike Woodson will never go away until he learns this thing called game management. Perhaps this year he will actually let more than 6 guys play this year so JJ doesn’t get burned out by January.

As for Mike Smith I believe that everyone on the Falcons are willing to follow him as he is adjusting to the game as a head coach. Ryan is a true leader in the huddle, and with time the talent around him will get better.

The reason I believe the Falcons are on a better track is because they are building to win a CHAMPIONSHIP. The Hawks are only trying to make the playoffs to keep their coach from getting fired.

By kappellmeister

September 29, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Hey, Vick Supporter, how’s YOUR team doin this year? You can join your buddy Charlie Sheen and Mike Convick in the California Penal League. Sorry, but I don’t call SEVEN dropped passes making excuses.

By Dennis

September 29, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

When I watch Grimes play, I can’t help but think two things:

He plays with all his heart.
You get paid for making plays, not your big heart.

As for Houston, sometimes he just looks lost, plain and simple.

The Birds need to do something at these positions.

By dondada

September 29, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Where is the pass rush. Quarterbacks are getting way too much time to throw. We need more than just John Abraham and Graady Jackson. If it takes two guys to hold up Grady Jackson,where the hell is the rest of our guys???

By mychelfromatl

September 29, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

By Shane

“Overall I think they will get better through the year and Ryan will end up being the best player Atlanta has ever drafted, besides Favre and Deion.”

^^^^^ Dude you should be drug-tested!!

By Chris

September 29, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

The recievers need to make catches!!!! It’s been time for Brooking to go!!! So long!!! Mike Smith and Matt Ryan are doing a great job!! Thomas Dimitrov can really evaulate talent, Curtis Lofton was questionable at first, but now it’s not… I guess this upcoming draft & free agency should address offensive & defensive line, secondary, and tight end. Jamal Anderson can be considered a bust, I have never seen such a defensive end drafted so high that cannot produce. He needs to go out the door right along with Brooking. Also, can Adam Jennings ever find a seam on punt returns? He should be gone to. Plus he does nothing on offensive, we could use Norwood or Chris Houston to return punts. He taking up a roster spot that could be used on another quality backup at another positon!!! Overall 6-10 maybe 7-9

By mychelfromatl

September 29, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

By Shane

“Overall I think they will get better through the year and Ryan will end up being the best player Atlanta has ever drafted, besides Favre and Deion.”

^^^^^ Dude you should be drug-tested!!

By Scotty

September 29, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Well…I guess my prediction was wrong. Our Birds didnt fair so well. 1st quarter Grade-B. This isnt against the rest of the league, but what I expected from the Falcons. MR2 is looking good. Secondary not so much. Milloy needs help and Grimes and Houston got exposed. I really thought they could handle the Panthers receivers. I was wrong. Good thing is we get to see ‘em in the A-town. That goes for the Bucs too. Four games down and half of ‘em are W’s. I aint gonna complain. Keep workin hard fellas and we got 12 more in front of us. A couple more wins is more than possible. Its probable. Dirty Birds baby!!

By not complaining

September 29, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

i still think Shockley should be leading this team!!!

By lost in space. Facons

September 29, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

How about Matt Ryan going to houston and Vick comming back home. Vick clearly is the best QB. T- 10 mo. to go to happy day again!!! What was his passer rating! same Falcon drop balls no defense and no offense line.

Baker is hurt already. Again defensive line and offensive lineman If you want to win ! Are keep playing PR games and keep loseing. Get the best player bar none. Matt threw a great pass just to the wrong team! you people keep saying the falcons will be fine. I guess when you are 110 years old!!!

By terrell barron

September 29, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Wtf? Babs has been a monster! Now Jamal, that’s a whole different story. I’m thinking we should go DT/DE/CB/S/RT/C/KR in next year’s draft. No particular order. BPA(for Smith’s scheme) at each of those 5 positions.

By Dennis

September 29, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Vick can’t go home. He’s ineligible to play at Va. Tech. again.

You truly are lost in space.

By btwarren

September 29, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Why do we have what could be the shortest CB in the NFL? Grimes has heart and I give him that but height will beat heart for a jump ball in the end zone almost every time. Jamaal Anderson is non existent. He needs to be cut. Brooking seems to get in the way more than he tackles people. Same old receivers and some new ones, dropping balls. I am just making an observation here, but Vick was partly blamed for the receivers dropping balls but seems like it is more the receivers than it was Vick. Need to get TE involved. A crumpler like TE is missing around then end zone. Those field goals should have been TDs. All and all not bad, something to build on. 5-6 wins are possible.

By PANTHERS.

September 29, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

1Falconfan,all they need is time?well its only been 42 years. how many more they need?Sorry franchise.

By Brian Hunt

September 29, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

I only see one more winnable game on the schedule (the Rams). The team is better, but still not as good as it needs to be. The secondary isn’t cohesive, and the defensive line doesn’t have enough play makers. On offense, the right side of the line isn’t nimble or athletic enough. That’s why they can’t run screens to save their lives. None of the linemen can run in space and pick up a block. I think it’ll take two more drafts to finish the make over.

By terrell barron

September 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

I meant those 7 positions. And oh yeah, we also need a TE that CATCHES THE FOOTBALL. I really think Crump could’ve helped this team this year.

By gdg73

September 29, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Why is Keith Brooking still on the field For a guy making $5million, he plain sucks. He has made no plays at his “natural position”. Saying that he is off to a slow start is an under-statement. Don’t think he is going to get any better either. What you see is what you get. Bring in Stephen Nicholas and bench this sorry excuse for a LB. Also, Brent Grimes is a nickleback in this league, no more, no less. Chevis Jackson or Foxworth start and slide Grimes inside to cover the slot receiver. Also, go find and sign Rod Coleman to help Jackson and Abraham. Babs does ok in spurts, but is not an every down UT. He is best utilized when used in rotation. Also, Matt Ryan needs to start making some plays worthy of a #3 selection. We don’t need just a game manager, we need a playmaker. Kinda like old #7. I sure do miss that guy. We would probably be 4-0 right now.

By CA

September 29, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Some of these comments just go Beyond The Pale!

So this post goes to all of the Fantasy Football know nothings.

Yup a horrible team beat one of the Best yesterday. its the NFL you get yer wins when and in whatever way that you can.

Dont you dare blame our D for yesterdays loss. Blame the Receivers.

If the O cant make plays the D will tire out and be exploited Every Time by Every Team Every Game.

Yesterdays loss is the Receivers Fault PERIOD Not Big Gradys Not Brookings Not Grimes and NOT JA98

Face it you are just concerned about yer Fantasy Football Stats, Now Shut yer yap!

By cb

September 29, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Overall I am satisfied with their performance so far this year. They’re beating the teams they’re supposed to beat while also protecting home field. Improvement needs to be seen in the pass rush to protect our young secondary (55 can’t do it on his own!!!). We also need to bench Brooking (he is really a liability on defense, too slow!!!!). The receivers have to stop dropping so many passes to help our young qb. For this to be a rebuilding year, other than these areas, I am satisfied with the team’s effort and performance.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

September 29, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Any thoughts on the red zone and third down woes. I keep asking everybody, Matty Ice, et al and we just keep getting “we have to execute better.” No kidding? What’s going wrong in the red zone and on third down.

By 1GB/packs

September 29, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Hello bird fans,im originally from GB but moved to the A town for buisness.I would have to say that atlanta fans argue and fuss with eachother more than i have ever seen fans for the same team do.And reading some of the comments,ive never seen people have so much hatred for a former player(m.vick)or you can say a team player(still on roster)in my life.Seen players over the years do waaaay worst crime.Guess its a color thing because he’s paying for what he did doing more than enough time for doing so.Being honest i would rather see ryan than vick any day against my boys(G.B).Im a die heart GB fan and will welcome the birds to the house of pain for this up coming beat down.Rogers-brett=still a playoff bound team.GOOOOOOO!PACKERS!

By 1GB/packs

September 29, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Hello bird fans,im originally from GB but moved to the A town for buisness.I would have to say that atlanta fans argue and fuss with eachother more than i have ever seen fans for the same team do.And reading some of the comments,ive never seen people have so much hatred for a former player(m.vick)or you can say a team player(still on roster)in my life.Seen players over the years do waaaay worst crime.Guess its a color thing because he’s paying for what he did doing more than enough time for doing so.Being honest i would rather see ryan than vick any day against my boys(G.B).Im a die heart GB fan and will welcome the birds to the house of pain for this up coming beat down.Rogers-brett=still a playoff bound team.GOOOOOOO!PACKERS!

By Mr. Charlie

September 29, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

Scotty,

Nice post…refreshing to see somebody man up and admit they were wrong. I was too…really thought the kids would do better in the secondary.

You know, anyone who didn’t expect that we would have these kinds of games against our division rivals on the road hasn’t been watching much NFL football. Take a look around the league and you will see there are not a ton of upsets for visiting teams.

Add to that, you should have low expectations for the Birds and be joyfully surprised when they win. It’s a rebuilding year folks!

I love what T.D. and M.S. and the coaching staff have done with the team and it’s only going to get better. The whole org is doing a great job.

Matt Ryan is a rookie! What do you people expect!! He is damn* good and will get better with experience. Yes, Jamal appears to be a bust at end though it even took Kerney a few years to get going so maybe….

Grimes made some athletic plays but against big physical receivers he’s going to have to rely on technique. Musin got his hips turned on that play he got the TD on and there was no recovery for that…but where was the safety on that play?

My grade for the Falcons is a C+. But I love em’ and their going to be great after another draft.

The faithful keep the faith.

By better days ahead

September 29, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

**Great post Chris,

Brooking is 3 steps to slow and gets in the way more than helping. Jaamal is a bust. Receivers need to catch the ball.**

By Chris

September 29, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

The recievers need to make catches!!!! It�s been time for Brooking to go!!! So long!!! Mike Smith and Matt Ryan are doing a great job!! Thomas Dimitrov can really evaulate talent, Curtis Lofton was questionable at first, but now it�s not� I guess this upcoming draft & free agency should address offensive & defensive line, secondary, and tight end. Jamal Anderson can be considered a bust, I have never seen such a defensive end drafted so high that cannot produce. He needs to go out the door right along with Brooking

By Henry

September 29, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

The best solution right now is replace Keith Brooking and weakside linebacker. He can’t cover and is reacting very slowly to plays. All he tackles are five yards or better down the field.

By Vick Supporter

September 29, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

@htwo0rider, I’m sure you were one of the several idiots on these blogs that blamed Vick for everything. Well, you know what, its time to BLAME MATT RYAN LIKE YOU PEOPLE DID VICK. He’s a big boy htwo0rider *, I’m sure he can handle it. Now, htwo0rider, what’s the problem with blaming “Matty Ice”? Is it not his fault that the recievers are dropping passes? He supposed to be so accurate and have such good touch on his passes, according to you people. Vick hit them in the numbers and they dropped them shi!ts. Ryan has the same WRs and pretty much the same O-line that Vick had. NO EXCUSES, this is the NFL, Ryan neee to get it done or sit down. I told you people this guy will be average at best. I see all these excuses *“help our young QB, blah blah blah. BS!! Vick got none of that, he recieved nothing but scorn on these blogs, and he wasn’t allowed to have a bad game wiithout being ridiculed about a bunch of BS that had nothing to do with football. I hope the Falcons lose every game. Roddy White admitted that he let Vick down many times because of his dropped passes, he has gotten better but you must remember Roddy was a a rookie when Vick was here, so it wasn’t Vick’s fault that he came slowly. But its different for Ryan. I don’t carewhat you people say about me, ya’ll know this is the truth. Vick will redeem himself, beotches

By Mychelfromatl

September 29, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

You Matt Ryan lovers words of inspiration means nothing so save it, you all were the same fools that swore Matt Schaub was the next best thing and we’ve all see how that turned out. So please keep your false praises and blind optimism to yourselves. Thanks!!

-From a once proud Falcon season ticket holder who now owns Hawks season tickets.

By Stephen Gray

September 29, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

I am pleased with their progress. This team hit rock bottom last year and went through a major overhaul. It appears the players have bought into the system. Teams are only as good as their offensive line and this is the biggest improvement on the team. Isn’t it fun watching players play hard instead of watching players like Deangelo “Heartless” Hall running his mouth but not producing.

By Mr. Charlie

September 29, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Hahahahaha!

And then Vick Supporter said “wah wah, waaaaah”! Haha!

Then he said “whine, whine’ my boyfriend Vick, whine, whine” some more!

After that he said “whine, wah, blah, blah, my precious Vick, whine, wah, blah, blah”!!

And to wrap it up he said “Whaaaaa! Everyone should listen to me, listen to me, because I’m carrying the torch for my little prison buddy Vickie, his nickname in Jail!! He’s mine, and he’s the bestest axlete to ever play for the NFL”!

Then he said “I’m practicing my soap drop so Vickie will feel at home when he gets out”

Hahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TheManMike

September 29, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry for my previous post about Schaub, I was one of the Dumba$$’s that thought he was a great quarterback!

Ryan is Garbage, he will go down in Falcon History as the 2nd coming of Ryan Leaf!!!!!!!!

All the Money, None of the Talent!

By Vick Supporter

September 29, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

@Mr. Charlie, lol. You need to try a little harder. your comment was pathetic

By Sarah

September 29, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Nice to see mostly positive comments on here and nice column Mr. Ledbetter. One thing that is really nice - you people have finally learned something - no one has bothered to post anything on Terrance Mr. Negitive Moore blog -HA HA HA!!!

By Mr. Charlie

September 29, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter,

Your retort was pathetic…just like your whiney Vick loving posts!

Hahahahahahahahaha!

Your a joke! Hahahaha!

By Dale

September 29, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

D. Orlando, To answer your question about 3rd down and red-zone, I would have to ask one back. What is Mike Mularkey’s career record on 3rd downs and in the red zone? I honestly do not know. I like the guy and am happy about him as a offensive coordinator. But if his career stats are similar to what we have now, then I think we have found our answer. If not, which I hope is the case, then we can look at “execution” of individual plays and see if there is a pattern in failures at any given position, etc.

Personally, I think we get too careful/conservative in the redzone, and we have had too many third and longs to have good success on 3rd down.

By Jeff

September 29, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Atlanta will be a playoff contender. Just not this year, it will take 2 years to be playoff contenders. We need to draft some Defensive players to tighten up our secondary ..Jamaal Anderson was a bust at DE, Brent Grimes is too small to play with the big receivers in the NFL, Chris Houston has a high upside..We need to draft a big time receiver too, maybe Crabtree from Texas Tech..

Why is Vick still an issue with some of you people. He’s gone, get over it.

By N2Pain

September 29, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Admit it, Falcons blew it by not drafting Calvin Johnson last year. They have no receivers. Shoddy is the best and he’s up and down. Secondary is suspect with 5’5” DBs. Can’t cover today’s bigger receivers. D Hall was a dwarf but had speed and he couldn’t defend bigger receivers. All in all much better team than when Putrid (Petrino) was here.

By Falcon 3107

September 29, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Keep crying about the secondary , will some of the falcons defense coaches watch the P. Eagles that’s defense they dictate to the offense. The QB never knows where their coming from he just knows their coming . Anybody out there remember the 1977 “Gritz Blitz”.Help the D-Line and Abe.

By Stephen

September 29, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Dear Vic Supporter

Can you please go get a life and let the “TRUE” Atlanta Falcons’ fans utilize these AJC blogs for communicating with each other about the “CURRENT” TEAM, e.g., making legitimate comments, observations, etc.

If you don’t want to support the Atlanta Falcons, then don’t, but just let the Michael Vick element go. He is “NEVER EVER” going to play for the Falcons again. In the words of Rodney King…”can’t we just all get along?”…and I’ll add…”just move on”??

By CA

September 29, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

D-Led/Dale:

With a New System Coaches Players etc etc.

The way I see the Big Problem is Over thinking the game. IMHO I feel that we should be focusing on the Fundamentals of the Game and just cleanly execute the plays, or just keep it simple and let the Players MAKE their Plays if you will.

Remember Ryan’s first Pass? A “simple” route CLEANLY Executed and to the House.

KIS

By Gary

September 29, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

I would give the Falcons a C+ for their efforts so far.

Matt Ryan has shown more than I thought a rookie QB could do in this league. He needs his receivers to step up and make catches (how many times did White slip in the 2nd half and ended a drive? ) He also needs his offensive line to step up a little more, but overall they have done a good job.

Turner and Norwood have been outstanding. Turner needs the line to hold up a little better on the run blocking, but he has cut off some great runs and is everything as advertised. Norwood is a beast and would love to see him get more action of the PA pass and screen passes.

White has been good receiving and is the go to guy. However he needs to put it together and make critical catches on third down. The previously mentioned slips in the second half yesterday all occurred on 3rd downs and if he makes those catches, result in 1st downs and sustain the drive. Jenkins has shown flashes but is pretty much a bust even under a new regime. Douglas looks like he could be a good WR but he too needs to make the critical catches. Robinson needs to get on the field.

Defense - Brooking is getting older and really needs to be used in specialty packages. Houston is making me think he is Deangelo Hall all over again by constantly getting burned by a big play receiver. Anderson….move to DT or cut all together. Kudos to Grady and Big John A for keeping the Falcons in it with their exceptional play. I am starting to see flashes of Jessie Tuggle in Curtis Lofton. That kid can flat out play. Same goes for Brent Grimes. I love the grit in the little fella.

Overall - we need to play better in the defensive secondary and someone on the left side of the DL needs to step up and help out Abraham and Jackson on run plays and pass rush. On offense the receivers need to be consistent with catching the ball and the offense as a whole needs to execute better in the Red Zone. 2-2 is very good for a team many picked to win only 1-2 games. The Falcons do have some winnable games left to be played. Chicago at Home, At Oakland, and home against the Rams are very winnable games. Minnesota is not looking so tough either. Not to mention that the Falcons were in the games against TB and Carolina until late in the 4th Qtr. I can expect the Falcons to “steal” a win or two from very good teams at some point this year, especially division rivals. All in All this team could very well end up 7-9 or 8-8 with a mid 1st rounder next April and a playoff contending team in 2009. The future looks much brighter now than it did one year ago. Thank you Dmitrov and Smith.

By Clayton Anthony

September 29, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

It has no gone unnotice to me that the Falcons top draft choice a couple of years ago, Jamal Anderson, has contributed very little in regards to pressuring the quarterback or stopping the run. Usually if a defensive end is not good in one area he is good in the other. I don’t want to label Anderson a bust but he is very close to being one, a huge one.

By Boo Boo

September 29, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

So so for the “first quarter.” That is nothing to write home about. However, the first quarter is not usually the way the game goes. The first quarter is when teams adjust. Wins become harder to come by, unless one team is paired against another and one team has a significant mismatch advantage. The “first quarter” of the Falcon’s season has exposed:

They cannot win on the road.

They can win at home with a big early lead.

They have no defense of significance, because only 3-4 of 11 players on the field (at any given time) can play (age, injury, and/or historical record), know how to play (experience), AND will give their all when they play (experience with heart, drive, self-motivation, and drive).

They have too much inexperience to win consistently, due to an innate ability to adjust mid-game.

The defense gives up too many long plays, where passing yards afer catch and runs past the d-line have resulted in a great flag football team spirit, but an inability to wrap-up, stop, and tackle.

They have an offense that sputters and dies in the Red Zone.

They have the ability to run a “no huddle” only as long as the quarterback has memorized what plays to run consecutively. Beyond that, the rookie quarterback is completely dependent on a play being called for him.

They can run when the other team is mismatched, defensive line to Falcon offensive line.

They cannot run consistently when opposing teams are committed to stop the run.

With the running game stopped, the passing game sputters and chokes, with erratic throws and dropped balls.

Unless injuries provide mismatched opponents (like Green Bay not being able to start A. Rogers), or other teams drop passes and turn the ball over, without anything forced (karmic wins), the Falcons can be expected to face the same result they had against Tampa and Carolina, when playing good defensive teams:

Green Bay; Chicago; Philadelphia; New Orleans; Carolina; San Diego; New Orleans; and Tampa Bay. That is 10 probable losses right there.

They could be 3 - 6 when they play the Broncos at home. If Kansas City can run on the Broncos and win, the Falcons might have a chance there. Assuming they can win on the road in Oakland, a victory again Denver would make them 4 - 6. However, by the time they go to Minnesota before Christmas, a lot might depend on what the Viking record is, as well as who is healthy and not playing. They should arrive there 4 - 10. By the time they end against St. Louis, everyone might have already given up and are prepared to mail it in.

By Shawn dodson

September 29, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

I look forward every week to the AJC blogs and i will tell you why.I just love how all the matt ryan lovers defend and make excuses for him.They want so much for us(vick fans 4 life)to stop bringing him up.Well,guess what?It will never happen!

By PANTHERS.

September 29, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Charlie,you know about the soap dropping hugh?wah wah wahhhhhhh is the sound you made when you dropped it.You said that to well.

By PANTHERS.

September 29, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Charlie,you know about the soap dropping hugh?wah wah wahhhhhhh is the sound you made when you dropped it.You said that to well.

By Noitall

September 29, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

The problem with most of you bloggers is that you grade the Falcons as if you were expecting them to make the playoffs or even win the superbowl this year.

Expectations are good but if you expected either one, you would have to be a complete idiot. The franchise has been rebuilt from the top down. You must know that great teams are not constructed overnight.

The Falcons looked GREAT in their two wins and GOOD in their two losses. Although they lost those games, the competed. Yeah there’s plenty of room for improvement…but that’s a part of the process. They have deifinitely showed signs of a promising future.

Once you idiots realize that this is not “the year”, you’ll be able to better evaluate our FALCONS.

So quit talking trash HATERS!!! It’s only a matter of time.

By da truth

September 29, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Hey, you idiots! Referring to vick supporter and mychelformatl, -are you just plain stupid? Matt Ryan is a freakin’ ROOKIE! Do you know anything about football, really? Most rookie quarterbacks never even get to see the field & some of the best qb’s of all time were very pedestrian or worse in their first years. I used to be a Vick fan and thought (and still think) that racism was behind the anti-Vick sentiment in the ATL. But after I realized that Vick is a freakin’ idiot moron with no regard/ respect for life, I gave up on him quite easily. (I do hope that the young man learns from his mistakes and gets his life together, but as far as for football, I dont ever want to see him in a falcon’s uniform unless he’s returning punts). For a rookie, Ryan is doing pretty damn good, you morons. As was the case for Vick, Ryan has crappy receivers -nice to see Roddy’s back to droppin’ passes again. So before you say Ryan’s a bust and all your other ignorant rants, freakin’ pay attention!! Oh, and to that Green Bay clown, A.Rodgers would have gotten his a** handed to him if he even dreamed of starting his rookie year! For a rookie qb, Ryan’s doing fine, I think I’ll wait a year or two before I start making stupid statements that reveal a total ignorance of the game.

By Ryder

September 29, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

I try to follow up on the rosters as much as possible, but does anyone know if Brian Finneran is still on the team? I think he would be a big boost in the red zone on those corner routes where he could use his height as an advantage.

If that can’t work, might I suggest more WR screens and swing passes to Norwood in the flat? This way it can create some holes for them to utilize speed since the field is so much more condensed at the 20 yard line.

By Vick Supporter

September 29, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

@da truth. Its the NFL. Quit cryin. He deserves the same criticism as Vick recieved. you people make excuses for ryan. If Ryan played well, I would say so, but he didn’t. You people judged Vick on every pass, even if they were TDs, you people had something negative to say. I hate to say it, but the majority white people here never liked vick and he played his a* of with nothing, which is whats happening to Ryan. “Ryan has crappy WRs…..” Really?!?!? You People are just now realizing that?!?!? Its been going on for the last 7 years and it was all Vick’s fault that they couldn’t catch, now Ryan is feelin the same thing and its “He’s a rookie QB, give him a chance” Ryan’s gonna get judged, at least by me and 100s of others who feel the same way I do. he’s a big boy, he can handle it. Vick did. I gurantee that Ryan WIL NOT BE BETTER THAN VICK. No f’in way. Also, You never hear me say I want Vick to come back to the Falcons, I’m not stupid, I know he’s not coming back here, and thats a good thing. this city doesn’t deserve a player of his stature. Make all the jokes you want, but Vick will redeem himself, and he’s gonna do all on the falcon’s a*, not on A.Blank, he didn’t do anything wrong, it will be on you sorry, racist fans. Yeah I said it.

By Exodus Mentality

September 29, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

1st QTR of Season Grades QB (B-) - He’s a rookie and he is ahead of the learning curve. He hasn’t made the same mistakes two weeks in a row yet. If he doesn’t get control of the happy feet, he may not last in this league. He hasn’t been hit that much this season to where he should be losing his composure.

RB (A-) - Atlanta was (is?)leading the league in rushing as a team and Turner was leading as a player. Both RB’s need to be more consistent, and better plays need to be called to give them a better opportunity to make plays.

WR (C+) - Roddy White gets an A, Everyone else gets a C. (Robinson might have gotten an A but he got hurt right after getting hot). This group has talent but must step it up in the next four games or this season will officially devolve into a long nightmare. Any team that doesn’t have to respect the pass can stop the run.

TE (C-) Would have been a D, but they are part of the line that blocks for the league leading rusher. Otherwise they are the missing link, invisible in the Red Zone. I don’t know if they have no talent or if there is no plan for using them, but nobody even guards Falcons tight ends if they happen to release.

Off. Line (B) - Half of Ryan’s sacks are his own fault for stepping into a defender who was otherwise being blocked. He’ll develop better pocket presence (or not), but the line is giving him enough time to make something happen. This group wasn’t supposed to be able to pass block. Once the rookie gets healthy, I expect continued improvement. Dahl and Clabo are nasty… I Love It!

Def. Line (B-) - Everyone but Jamal Anderson is playing well, and even Jamal got close to a QB and has made a few tackles. Nowhere near what we need from a high draft pick, but not a total loss either. Abraham is an A+ player, and he’s staying healthy. The Carolina game was an aberration that largely falls on the coaches for not picking up on Carolina’s scheme and making NO adjustments. I wouldn’t expect to see them look that bad again this year. They still looked decent against the run.

LB (C+) MLB is good against run, Boley is starting off very slowly, Brooking is past his prime and a step or two late on almost every play, even though he still gets there a lot. I expected more out of this group. Add to that the fact that they can’t seem to cover anyone in the short passing game, and we have a problem area.

CB (C+) - Everyone thought these little guys were going to get torched and manhandled all over the field. While it’s true they are vertically challenged, they both have more than enough heart to make up for it. Did you see Houston and Grimes sticking and STOPPING Steve Smith, arguably the most physical receiver in the game? We’ve all seen Smith run over and away from many corners, but not these two. They held their own against taller receivers as well, and are starting to show up in run support. I wanted to give them a B, but as a former CB, they have to deal with a higher standard. I think they will get surprisingly better as the year goes on and the pass rush improves.

Safeties (B-) - They’re solid against the run and shaky in pass protection. Milloy is an A player or else they would rate a C as well.

K (A) - perfect so far

P (B) - Koenan has lost some leg over the past couple of years. Not so high and not so deep any more.

S/T (B-) - Not too many penalties, no big time returns against, and Norwood is showing flashes. This group should be better, but I don’t think Jennings will ever be a good punt returner. He is fast, but not quick, and quick is what makes a good punt returner.

Def. Coord. (C) - And that’s being charitable. Last game was a solid D-. Coaches have to react better and be more aggressive, especially on the road.

Off. Coord (C-) - Again being very charitable. Only one pass called to the End Zone the whole game? I’ve never heard of anything that ridiculous. Complete lack of Red Zone plan. Not really getting the playmakers (Turner, Norwood, White) in a position to make the big play. Another area where immediate improvement is required or it will be a long sad season. Same thing applies, need to react better and be more aggressive, especially on the road and inside the 20.

Head Coach (B+) - Don’t like his press conferences, but he has this team playing hard most of the time. Everyone seems to be on the same page, and he looks to have control of the game situations during the game. 6 or more wins and no team melt downs will earn him an A for the year in my book.

Overall Team Grade (C+) - I love the Falcons, and I expected them to be horrible this year. 2-2 is better than most of us hoped for. But I see potential here that is not being lived up to. This team could be 4-0 expect for miscues and passivity in play calling and defensive schemes on the road. Still, it is a relatively young team, with new management and coaches, so they get a passing grade and Anything under 6 wins for the year will be a disappointment at this point.

By Exodus Mentality

September 29, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this