Falcons

By Space Mountain

November 4, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Same basic formula. Run the ball effectively, try to get up early. Run the ball effectively. Good defense ( VanGorder get a stay of execution after Raiders shutout). Run the ball effectively. Good special teams and field position. Run the ball effectively to set up play action pass. And finally run the ball even more to keep the Saint offense off the field and our offense on.

By TURTSNAP

November 4, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Falcons are growing and learning. It’s exciting to see. I am glad I held on to my season tickets. Three straight HUGE home games, GA Dome should be rocking!!

By a*******play

November 4, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

I am rooting for Brett Grimes to have a big day. The guy plays his a$$ off but is just a bit small.

Matt Ryan is the Man!!! This is a descent team not to be overlooked by anyone.

By gdg73

November 4, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

We better put some pressure on Drew Brees or it will be a long day for us. If we can’t get pressure with the front four early on, they should start blitzing.

Just like the Eagles, the Saint’s staff will exploit Keith Brooking by getting him matched up against one of their backs. Thank God Reggie Bush is hurt and not playing. Did you see how Jamarcus Russell ran by Brooking on the scramble up the left sideline in the second half. This guy has turned into a joke on the field. Orlando, What is the word from Flowery Branch on Stephan Nicholas? The team is in a playoff push. It’s time to put the best players on the field. Jennings has been demoted, Grimes has been demoted (albeit by injury). It’s “Highway 56” time now.

By GoFalcons

November 4, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Falcons should just play their game, the Saints defense is not that good. Start out scoring early and play good defense and special teams, they will have a very good chance to win.

Home feild advantage will be a huge factor for the Falcons.

By Riz

November 4, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

DOL - Any scoop on Reggie Bush? Is he gonna suit up coming off the bye week or are the Saints gonna give him one more week?

I like the Falcons formula and I was encouraged to see Ryan look for players other than Roddy. Sometimes I think he stares down Roddy a bit so 8 different WR’s getting receptions is great!

By Brian Hunt

November 4, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

The offense will need to manifest in all of its ball control glory. They need to hold the ball for 40 mins to win this game. Keep Brees on the side line. On defense the Falcons’ secondary needs to play a physical game with a lot of redirecting and jamming of the Saints’ WRs. The timing of that offense has to be disrupted and that will make Brees hold the ball a little longer so hopefully Abraham can get to him.

By TURTSNAP

November 4, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Looking like Jamaal Anderson may not be a bust after all. He has looked very good this year on both the pass and the run. Sunday, his rush flushed Russell up in the pocket and Abraham was there to finish the job

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

November 4, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Haven’t heard anything on Bush yet. I’m sure the knee is not ready yet. However, found this troubling stat. The Saints have 34 plays of 20 yards or more and 11 of 40 yards or longer. They are the masters of “the Explosive” plays the Falcons have had problems with.

By Bear

November 4, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

The Falcons need to matriculate the ball down the field.

Go Falcons.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

November 4, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

We’ve got the ghost of Hank Stram in the house!!! Do we need to get Coach Smith some papers to roll up in his hands while he tells Ryan to “matriculate the ball down the field!”

By Q

November 4, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

I agree with gdg73 regarding Keith Brooking. He has been a great player and a great leader over the years. But the time has come to see what Nicolas can do on the weakside backer position.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

November 4, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

It seems like there is a group of folks singling out Keith Brooking. According to the coaches stats, he leads the team in tackles. NFL stats have Coleman and Milloy leading, followed by Lofton and Brooking fourth. Got extra time today, cause voting went quicker than expected.

Roddy White’s about to come on First Take on The Duece.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

November 4, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

It seems like there is a group of folks singling out Keith Brooking. According to the coaches stats, he leads the team in tackles. NFL stats have Coleman and Milloy leading, followed by Lofton and Brooking fourth. Got extra time today, cause voting went quicker than expected.

Roddy White’s about to come on First Take on ESPN2.

By Riz

November 4, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Anyone heard what the numbers are like for the Dome sellout. In good years and bad, NoLa always brought some fans to Atlanta and vice versa. I want the dome to be UNHINGED on Sunday - hopefully we’ll fill it up!

C’mon Birds - FLY HIGH.

By Q

November 4, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Brooking might lead the team in tackles according to the coaches, but he got bulldozed by McNabb on his QB keeper for TD two weeks ago. He is very slow as well which is why he makes so many tackles 15 yards down field. Just my opinion from watching every game the past four years, he has been slower each year.

By Q

November 4, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Brooking might lead the team in tackles according to the coaches, but he got bulldozed by McNabb on his QB keeper for TD two weeks ago. He is very slow as well which is why he makes so many tackles 15 yards down field. Just my opinion from watching every game the past four years, he has been slower each year.

By Bob

November 4, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Run Run and Run!!! We got the ground game back on track and not we are going to use it to actually help us win a big game. Harry is going to make a big play returing a punt and the falcons D will step up when the game is on the line. Get to the big Dome early becuase its going to be loud and crazy. Falcons win!!!

By Smile on this

November 4, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

I’ve never been more excited about a Falcons-Saints game and I’ve been following this rivalry for 31 years.

As a resident of the Jacksonville Jaguars area of influence, again, Orlando, let me set the record straight. Leftwich: Big guy, yes. Rocket arm, no. His exaggerated, slow, weird windup seems to hamper velocity or something. People see big and assume rocket. It just ain’t so. Still, best to him.

By dhj_1962

November 4, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

if brooking was such a liability, the falcons would have at least diminished his role more. maybe his loyalty, character, personality, respect from team mates, coaches keeps him around. if talent was all that mattered, ATl could go after the TO’s, the woman beaters, the pot smokers, the adam jones’s of the nfl. hey, lets sign MV when he gets out of prison and trade Matt Ryan for one of the above mentions thug, punk, mf’s that i just mentioned??? also, i hope everyone is right who think the falcons will make the playoffs, Carolina and TB will still be tough, even at the dome, NO is hurting, but will be tough in the superdome. i think they will need to go 5-3 the last half of year…10-6 ?? will that be good enough for the playoffs? yalls thoughts?

By Griffin

November 4, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Hey Space Mountain… You say VanGorder gets a stay of execution for the Raiders game??? The Falcons are 9th in the NFL in scoring defense, and 16th in yards per game given up. This for a 1st year NFL DC. Do your homework. Coming off of what happened last year he gets all sorts of praise!

By Darrin "The Vent King"

November 4, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

I believe our best defense against the Aint’s offense will be to run, run, run and slow the game down aka “time of possesion”. The Ain’ts can’t score if they don’t have the rock. We need to take the same approach teams started taking against the Colts when they were at their prime- slow it down. If we can get a quick strike and get the lead early, then we should pound the ball with every RB we have including Snelling and Ovie if Turner gets off to slow start. I like what they are doing with Norwood. Sooner or later they are going to get that “wildcat’ thing down and with Ryan being who he is- it’s going to give opposing defensive coordinators fits here in a minute. We still have a ways to go before we are “shootout” ready, but so far so good with EVERYTHING they are doing with this team.

GO FALCONS!!!

By Space Mountain

November 4, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Griffin. I m giving props for the d-Coordinator VanGorder. The 70+yds they gave up in the last game swayed my opinion of VanGorder a little. Then again this years Raiders offense is not the offensive juggernaut it was a few years back. If the birds blank the Saints I will be sold. But the best defense is a good offense. Keep their offense on the sideline and just punish their defense until they give in. We do not want to get into a shootout with this team because they can score points in a hurry.

By gdg73

November 4, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Orlando, nobody is singling out Brooking. We are just watching the games every Sunday. A blind man could see that Brooking is not getting it done. I don’t want to here anything about tackling stats. Stats are for losers. It’s the same thing every week with this game. Can you recall the last game-changing play this guy has made? I thought so. Why is this guy so untouchable in the Atlanta media’s eyes? When Grimes sucked, the fans complained. When Jennings sucked, the fans complained. Why can’t the fans voice their displeasure with Brooking without someone saying “he is being singled out”? Do us a favor and ask Coach Smith about Nicholas’ timetable for taking over for Brooking.

By BASEBALL KEN

November 4, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Brook IS starting to look old. Jennings will cost us another game. DB’s are suspect. However, this team is playing fundamental football. Run the ball and stop the run. The draft will fix our weaknesses. 8-8,9-7 is possible. ATL get out and support this team.

By blake

November 4, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

gdg73, I’m sorry, but you are wrong about Brooking. he is the leader of this defense and there is no way the satff is taking him off the field. He was beat on one play by Russell. He did well in coverage the nrest of the game. I hate it when people say we should replace him. Have some class. Brooking is along with Todd McClure the cornerstone of this franchise. So, show him some respect.

By Alan

November 4, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

EVERYONE NEEDS TO GET INSIDE THE DOME EARLY! ROLE CALL IS AT 12:45! LET THE SAINTS FEEL THE DOME!

By Boo Boo

November 4, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

I live where the Saints get the NFL’s blessing as the game of the week. The announcers gave a stat that was surprising (which D. Ledbetter can doublecheck). They said that Sean Peyton’s Saints have never had a fourth quarter come from behind victory. They lead the league in passing because Brees hasn’t been getting steady yards through the running game. Now, with Bush hurt, he passes 60 times a game (like back at Purdue). The key is to have the defense stay on him early with heavy pass rush. He doesn’t get sacked because he throws the ball whenever pressured, without looking. Those usually are incomplete, which leads to three and outs. However, if you let him stand in the pocket he will pick a zone apart all day long, usually completing passes for 18-20 yards in the middle of the field. The Falcons will need to stay second half fresh and stay in Brees’ face all game long. Three of their four losses were on the road. They totally dominated Minnesota at home (MNF), but luck was on the Vikings’ side. They have only blown out Oakland at home; but they were blown out by Carolina in Charlotte. All other games have been close, with both teams in the mid-to-upper 20s or both around the low-to-mid 30s. Teams that beat the Saints typically get big leads early, then Brees kicks in late, to make the score close. When the Saints win, Brees is clicking for early scores. The Falcons can run on them; but they have to recycle the D-line and keep constant pressure on Brees.

By Freshmaker

November 4, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Gdg, stop being a UGA homer. Brooking has been a great linebacker his whole career, and he’s still getting the job done. I’m sure he’s lost a step, but he makes a lot of plays and has been a leader for the defense. If you don’t care about the stats, that just says you have an agenda.

By AGTFan

November 4, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Orlando,

you shouldn’t try and confuse the Brooking bashers with facts. He could make every tackle in the game and they’d still be bashing him. It’s obvious that they are far superior to the coaching staff and what they see in a quick shot on TV while they’re half drunk is much clearer than the hours of film review done by the coaching staff.

By Gadawg59

November 4, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

It is so refreshing to have a team with some confidence that we can be proud of. I think we finally have the right man in the GM and a coach that understands the game. I watch Coach Smith and he is full of fire, he congratulates his players and gets upset when he needs too. He has passion for the game and toughness. This franchise is long overdue on having great leadership and hopefully what we have in place now will lead us to the next level. As far as Brooking goes. He is getting older and has lost a step. He makes a lot of tackles from behind. The man busts his butt on every play though. He is a class act and has stood in the face of adversity of this franchise and always shown leadership. That means something.

By We're Due!!

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

Let’s jump on the Aint’s early and get some payback for the past two years. Alot of their fans were extremely obnoxious in NO last year and I want to stomp them here!! Bring the noise all game…it was definitely a spark against Chicago!!

By FanSince1980

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

Blake—no disrespect to Brooking. He’s been a very good player for years with the Falcons BUT he has lost a few steps and it has been showing for the past couple of years.

As far as what we need to do to stop N.O. is to pressure Brees all day and stick to our game plan on offense. Their defense sucks.

By KJ

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

gdg, I’m calling you out every time I get the chance…remember stats are for losers.

By Terrell

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

dhj_1962 , your post is such a joke. That’s all I got to say about that. I think it is time to replace Brooking in the lineup. Oh, blake, Brooking is not the only leader on the defense. As a matter of fact the true leader is now Milloy. It’s funny how we talk about showing Brooking some respect. You all always say nobody comes before the team. When MV was here you were hard on Blank for the commitment he made to him, and now all of a sudden Brooking has become untouchable but he’s one of the biggest liabilities on this defense. He has lost a lot of steps and he didn’t have much to begin with. He may be a vocal leader but he’s not the heart and soul of this defense anymore.

By DMac

November 4, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Can the Saints stop the run? Look for the Falcons to use the clock and keep the saints D off balance. The Falcons do have to score when they have the ball. If they do… look for a lower scoring game and another close battle at the end. 6-3…you’ve got to be kidding me. Last year is real blurry now….

By 1eyedJack

November 4, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Whatever John Abraham ate before the game last week the whole team needs to eat this week.

By kinda lazy

November 4, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

go falcons! adam jennings shouldn’t be in the league. Harry douglas will learn and get better,but jennings is a lost cause

By kinda lazy

November 4, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

go falcons! adam jennings shouldn’t be in the league. Harry douglas will learn and get better,but jennings is a lost cause

By kinda lazy

November 4, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

go falcons! adam jennings shouldn’t be in the league. Harry douglas will learn and get better,but jennings is a lost cause

By Gadawg59

November 4, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Norwood needs the ball 15-20 times a game. Maybe he needs to be used like the Saints use Reggie Bush. If Norwood gets the ball that much he will break at least one long one. The man has incredible talent and speed.

By please

November 4, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

why is that in every post someone always has something to say in regarding race, rather it’s direct or indirect such as dhj_1962

By saint

November 4, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

After watching the Redskins-Steelers game I realize how great a passer Ryan is. Got to keep him healthy, so we need more help blocking his backside now that Baker is out. I really like Harry Douglas’s ability to catch the ball in a crowd, like over the middle. Yes, with Brees so fast on the throw, we have to control him by having our Offense hog all the clock. Looks like our run-blocking is starting to gel. Get ready for another great game!

By gdg73

November 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Please, Terrell, and Q equals Three voices of reason. I am glad to see that some people do watch the games and see this guy not doiing anything but running up to the pile after all the heavy lifting has been done. Its seems that Brooking has a legion of blind supporters ready to protect his honor when his ability is questioned. I hope that Dimitroff can make the tough decision and cut him in the offseason. Afterall, that’s why the Patriots have been so successful. They don’t pay over the hill linebackers $5 million a year to jump on the pile and tackle team-mates.

By Dreski

November 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Hey! don’t give them the luxury of calling them the Saints! Their the Aint’s on this blog! Lets punch them in the mouth every time they touch the ball and every time we touch the ball! Make them remember the day they played the Falcons……….

By Dreski

November 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Hey! don’t give them the luxury of calling them the Saints! Their the Aint’s on this blog! Lets punch them in the mouth every time they touch the ball and every time we touch the ball! Make them remember the day they played the Falcons……….

By Dr. Warren

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

Agree about utilizing Norwood more—they’re gonna burn the Burner’s tires’ down to nothing if they keep giving him the ball 30+ times a game.

By Dr. Warren

November 4, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Agree about utilizing Norwood more—they’re gonna burn the Burner’s tires’ down to nothing if they keep giving him the ball 30+ times a game.

By Phillip

November 4, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

D. Orlando Ledbetter,

You do a fine job on writing your Falcon articles for the AJC but it is “painful” to listen to you ask question at press conferences and in the Atlanta Falcons dressing room. Please work on your language skills - it sounds worse than “street slang”….as a journalist, I would think you would be required to be an orator as well…

By Phillip

November 4, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

D. Orlando Ledbetter,

You do a fine job on writing your Falcon articles for the AJC but it is “painful” to listen to you ask question at press conferences and in the Atlanta Falcons dressing room. Please work on your language skills - it sounds worse than “street slang”….as a journalist, I would think you would be required to be an orator as well…

By Ken Strickland

November 4, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

I agree that Brooking has lost a step, but we can’t hold that against him. After all, Malloy has lost a couple of steps and plays SS where it’s more critical. Playing SS and not being able to effectively defend against the pass definitely affects our pass DEF. Yet, you’re not calling for his head.

Brooking took a beating the yrs he agreed to play inside/MLB and did what was best for the team, not his career. It’s obvious he’s not able to make the game changing plays he once made, but at least he’s still able to make plays. Also, Boley certainly hasn’t lost a step, but by his own admission he’s not playing up to his ability either. I don’t think he will be replaced, but I think this will be his last yr as a starter with us.

We have a better overall DEF than the Saints, and our 163yds average rushing yds per gm is slmost double their 88yd total. They have become a one dimensional OFF and our DEF has to take advantage of that. Their rushing DEF is 2nd from the bottom of the NFC and we are #1 in rushing OFF. They know they have to stop our rushing OFF. We should use play action and do to them what we sucessfully did to Oakland. THE SAINTS HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT US MORE THAN WE HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THEM. We win this one at home. GO FALCONS!!!!!

By here since '67

November 4, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Maybe Brooking should be replaced but until someone takes the job from him, he’s what we have; if you think Mike Smith would rather lose with Brooking then win with someone else, you don’t know football; they practice every week; obviously nobody’s stepped up to take the job from Brooking

By saints #1 fan

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

I know the Saints/Falcons rivarly game is huge to us Saints Falcons fans. Too bad the rest of the NFL doesnt know about this game. But to be honest Atlanta running game scres me. If the saints stop the run like we did against Minn. we will win by 10. Our defense is garbage. We have holes at Lb and DB and saftey. But if we come out and play with fire it will be a long day for the dirty birds. We are getting healthy everyday and when we put it all together look out NFL

By bfred

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

“I could have did that”?! Come on, you’re a journalist - please tell me you know this is incorrect. You have the extra time due to the short voting line, after all.

By DawgNCalifornia

November 4, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Phillip, you are a jerk.

By saints #1 fan

November 4, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

I know the Saints/Falcons rivarly game is huge to us Saints Falcons fans. Too bad the rest of the NFL doesnt know about this game. But to be honest Atlanta running game scres me. If the saints stop the run like we did against Minn. we will win by 10. Our defense is garbage. We have holes at Lb and DB and saftey. But if we come out and play with fire it will be a long day for the dirty birds. We are getting healthy everyday and when we put it all together look out NFL

By SCBird

November 4, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Offense looks good, but we need one more veteran WR. I hope Smith makes a run at Devery Henderson in free agency. We also need a DE opposite Abraham.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

November 4, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

YOU GUYS ARE HILARIOUS

THERE IS NO WAY THIS GAME IS EVEN REMOTELY CLOSE

KEEP ON DREAMING

SAINTS 37——LOSERS 7

THE UPCOMING GAMES ARE NOT DETROIT/KC/OAKLAND

THE FALCONS WILL HAVE AN 0-6 RECORD AGAINST THE NFC SOUTH

THERE IS ALWAYS NEXT SEASON ————- AGAIN :)

By TNJeff

November 4, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Why make fun of Douglas’ poor grammer - let’s hope instead of saying “I could have did that”, he would have said “I could have done that”

Can anyone find an editor?

Also “was another missed opportunities” - uggh.

“Is the … rest of the offense ready to win a shootout …” - I don’t know “Is They?”

Not the AJC’s finest read

By Q

November 4, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

OK, Boley hasn’t played as well as he is capable of playing but at least he still makes big plays for the defense (interception vs. GB). Also, Milloy has made several big plays (two interceptions and several big hits per game). Nothing is being said about Milloy because he has shown up this year to play hard and with swagger. I agree that Norwood should continue to be a bigger piece of our offense. Go birds!!!

By Riz

November 4, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOL - do you have any updates whatsoever on Sam Baker? I’d love to have our #1 starting LT out there on Sunday.

By saint

November 4, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

DOL Adam Jennings says you are messing with his grammar! After all, it was a quote, wasn’t it?

By Harvard Blue

November 4, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

I agree that the Falcons are headed in the right direction. A definite step up. What concerns me is play calling. It seems that if he Falcons get a lead, no matter how miniscule, they are content to try to sit on it. I don’t know if this is a matter of playing not to lose or if they want to protect Ryan. The team will be on fire and then Smith and Mularky will kill the momentum by running 3 times for no gain. As long as the Falcons stay in the lead, they are content with 3-and-outs. This won’t work against the Saints, Bucs, or Panthers. There are several plays to Turner that can be scrapped because they have netted zero or less yards this season. See ya at the Dome Sunday!

By humble

November 4, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

man, i am loving this falcons TEAM. there is no singular player with them, it is actually all about the team. it’s great to see. i think MR2 will be a top 5 QB in the league and turner and white are all-pros in the making. our D is playing above their heads and after another year of FA and a quality draft our D should be on par with the offense. it is an exciting time to be a falcons fan and i for one am glad that i have been and will continue to be on board.

By Russ

November 4, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

VICK SUPPORTER 2 - You say the Falcons will lose 37-7. Do us a favor and figure out how many points they would lose by if your predcition comes true and don’t get back to us until you have the correct answer. I expect we won’t be hearing from you for at least a week.

By Wink from Lithonia

November 4, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

I have to agree with some of the post regarding Keith Brooking. When a player is not performing & it is obvious someone needs to say something…ie Jennings poor judgement on punt returns; Brent Grime getting beat due to height. Brooking should have drilled the Raiders quarterback, but he ran right past him untouched. Last week Donovan McNabb ran for a touchdown on the goal line. He ran right at Brookings and Brookings should have drilled him right between the numbers, but he went with a arm tackle & McNabb ran thru it. If you are spending any time watching him play this year he is chasing player down from behind or piling on after the tackle has been made. He definitely should not be on the field in passing situations period. He is actually the nicest middle linebacker I have ever seen ( No Bukkus, or Lewis thats for sure). Let’s not give this guy a pass just because he comes with the Atlanta landscape and we need another player to be the identity of this team. He may be a nice enough guy, but this is football and we really want someone who wants to do damage to the ball carrier on Sunday. We want him to hit somebody when the opportunity presents itself.

By richbrave

November 4, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

My ‘SKINS sure got the crap kicked out of them last night. I put it on the coaching. Not enough offensive adjustment once it was obvious what PITTSBURGH’s defense was doing. Didn’t switch to the run once STELLERS got up 10 late in the third and began rushing only four. They should have.

First half, CB CARLOS ROGERS dropping that pass which would have been a pic6 really took the edge off the whole team. Coaching was responsible for developing something offensively effective against PITTSBURGH to pick them back up. Just didn’t get it done. Maybe everybody including the staff was longing for the bye. Today’s paper grades the coaching out as an “F”. I agree. Time to come back renewed and syntillating Mr. ZORN. Otherwise, you might fall into the “flash in the pan” analogy.

By Mike Smith, Head Coach

November 4, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Wink from Lithonia, be at the Suwanee facility tomorrow morning and be ready to suit up for some drills. We have a plan to run DJ Shockley right at you about 20 plays in a row. If you can hit him between the numbers every time, and drop him like a sack of potatoes, even make him cry, you’re starting Sunday against the Saints. We’ll film your play, then if your rubber legs can crawl to the film room after practice, we’ll grade your abilities. Otherwise, you’re just a couch potato Monday morning quarterback, whose view of the field is Fox’s projection on your livingroom box.

By CA

November 4, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Nice thread D. I will not agree to a shootout ready offense.

Shoot outs are bad because your D does not get much rest.

Controlling the clock is another thing entirely. 1 Keeps defense rested. 2 Scores some points One TD per quarter and a field goal or two. (34 points)

Bear wrote: The Falcons need to matriculate the ball down the field.

and I could not agree more, because that is exactly what we did to Oakland Sunday and what I would love to see us do to the NFC South.

Cheers

By jcdocpc

November 4, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

I really like our defense, but we will need to be on our game against the Saints. With Bush out, this is our chance to catch the Saints looking. I will say this: Drew Brees is for REAL! The boy can chunk the pigskin…and put it on the money. We need to find a way to rush him so he makes his throws eratic. That being said, Both of their running backs are illing so this pretty much mskes them one dementional…pass, pass. pass. Which they do very well! We need to score our points in the RED ZONE, ‘cause they will get some points..and we need to make sure the defense gets some rest..or it could be a loooooog afternoon.

By mahjk17

November 4, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

TWO WORDS JOHN ABRAHAM

By FALCON FAN

November 4, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

i like cheese

By RR7

November 4, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Falcons 31 Saints 17 with Smith, Turner, and Ryan. Saints 38 Falcons 6 with Petrino, Dunn (I have always liked him) and Vick Supporter 2’s favorite player Vick. Thanks goodness they are not with us. Go Falcons!!!!!

By Falcon fan 1966

November 4, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Saints and Drew Brees will come to the dome with smoking guns. the best way to defence the saints is to keep thier offence off the field.It will be hard to blitz brees because he gets rid of the ball so quickly. we need to score touchdowns every chance we get,not field goals.This has all the makeings of a high scoreing game.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

November 4, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Checking on the Saints not having any come from behind victories in the fourth quarter.

Coach Smith said they don’t have a “protocol” for Baker yet. Meaning they don’t know when he’ll return and if they do, he wasn’t telling me yet.

Will ask Abe what he had for breakfast and share.

By reg

November 4, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Good point, Space Mountain!! Run the ball, taking time off the clock and actually getting in the end zone rather settling for field goals is key. We have to keep the Saints offense off the field, but I got a bad feeling the secondary will get badly exposed and after the game we will be talking-I mean blogging about how bad the defense is. We are a young inexperience overachieving team, remember guys. Give “em time to mature, it aint gonna happen overnight but rather overtime!! Vick Supporter- You are an idiot!!!

By macfleetwood

November 4, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

1 9/7 vs. TB W 24-20 2 9/14 @ Was L 29-24 3 9/21 @ Den L 34-32 4 9/28 vs. SF W 31-17 5 10/6 vs. Min L 30-27 6 10/12 vs. Oak W 34-3 7 10/19 @ Car L 30-7 8 10/26 vs. SD W 37-32 As You Can See, The Saints Got “Blown Away” By Carolina In Game 7..The Other 3 Losses..They Lost By 5 Points OR Less!! Our “Pitiful” Pass Defense Will Not Hold Up..I Predict D. Breese Will Get 350-400 Yards..In My Opinion, The Only Way Atlanta WINS The Game Is To Keep PRESSURE On The QB For The WHOLE Game!!..And.. I Have NOT Seen That Pressure In The Precedeing 8 Games. However, It Will Be A Close Scoring Game And I Believe The Team That Scores LAST Wins The Game! We Seem To Score The 1st Half..BUT.. Do Very Little In The 2nd Half!..Go Falcons!!

By phatt

November 4, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

So MeAngelo is about to get released, LOL!!!!!! How good does that trade look now???

By Vick Supporter 2

November 4, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Well I am right again - D Hall ate up the Falcons and got paid. Umm well at least he got paid! Umm well at least uh duh stutter. You’re all cracker trailer park racists. Crack kills :)

By john

November 4, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Raiders releasing Hall on wed.

By richbrave

November 4, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

HISTORY!!!!

By Ken Strickland

November 4, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

OBAMA IS PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. IT’S NO LONGER YES WE CAN, IT’S YES WE DID.

By Boo Boo

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

Orlando,

The television announcer (Fox I believe) said the Sean Peyton Saints had no fourth quarter come from behind wins. They have come from behind in the 4th quarter 3 times under Sean Peyton (once each in 2006 (Phil.), 2007 (Atl.), and so far in 2008 (TB)); but only in the Super Dome. That must have been his reference. No come from behind, on the road, in the 4th quarter wins for Sean Peyton’s Saints.

By midtownBrave

November 5, 2008 5:21 AM | Link to this

Ah.. we need Baker back in the line very soon. Just had to state the obvious. Don’t you have to wait at least a month before you can start playing after you’ve had a hip surgery? Or was that a minor procedure?

Either way we cannot afford to leave the blindside protection to Ojinnaka for too long. I don’t know how Gandy will do either if he’s to take over on LT on Sunday. Seems like we have trouble running the ball against good defenses also when Baker’s not playing; it’s a relief to know the Saints D has been very ‘effective’ so far.

Once Lewis and Foster makes a return, if they do, the defense will make more noise. I have faith in our secondaries to get better with every game. So playoffs seem very much possible right now!

Anyway, about the upcoming game. We need to run and control the clock like the 100 fans before me have said. Seems like Anderson’s playing a lot better recently and I wish we had better DTs and outside LBs to help with the run D. Lofton’s been great so far.

Having said that the only concern will be those ‘explosive’ plays and I don’t see why blitzing won’t help us take those plays away. But really we need to score early and then run the ball well to keep Brees getting some Breeze on the sideline.

By richbrave

November 5, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

KEN:

That’s ALL of us right KEN.? Not just Mr. KING’s constituency.?

By MWC

November 5, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Hey Ken, just listen to yourself…

By Ken Strickland

November 5, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

RICHBRAVE-I voted for Obama because he was against the war in Iraq where I, and too many others, unnecessarily lost my brother. He also pledged to reachout to everyone and I embrace that philosophy whole heartedly. America didn’t get to this point because of the actions of just one group of people. Certain groups led the way, but not without the support of other groups who stood together. But in the end, WE ALL ARRIVED AT THIS HISTORIC POINT TOGETHER. DIFFERENT SHIPS, SAME JOURNEY.

The dye has been cast. We must now start the process of healing this country’s social, political and economic problems. But first, some of us must start to heal ourselves and move beyond the politics and attitudes of the past. Like the Falcons, we have to lay a strong foundation and give our support.

this wasn’t about Kings constituency, it was about his dream becoming a reality. Obama becoming president was the result of Americans of all persuasions coming together for a common sense of purpose and making it happen. No more of the divisiveness that’s been fostered by the GOP who used terms like LIBERAL, ULTRA LIBERAL, CONSERVATIVE, ULTRA CONSERVATIVE, MODERATE, RIGHT WING, LEFT WING, FAR LEFT OR FAR RIGHT ETC. to separate us.

ALL LINES WERE CROSSED TO MAKE THIS HISTORIC EVENT HAPPEN. WITH OUR COOPERATION, THIS ADMINISTRATION CAN RESTORE AMERICA BACK TO BEING A WORLD POWER ONCE AGAIN. NOT FROM A STRICT MILITARY STANDPOINT, BUT FROM A SOCIAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC STANDPOINT. THAT’S CRITICAL IF WE’RE GOING TO LEAD IN TODAYS GLOBAL SOCIETY.

I WANT TO EXTEND A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL WHO MADE THIS HISTORIC EVENT POSSIBLE. AGAIN, I WANT TO THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!!!!!!!!!!

By Terrible Truth

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

Rumor is Kim Kardashian was reaching for a donut, condom, adjust the camera or something and rolled over Bush’s leg so he’s out at least another week.

By Space Mountain

November 5, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

Ken, you don’t actually trust politicians do you?

By Ken Strickland

November 5, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

SPACE MOUNTAIN-I focus on the individual person before I deal with his/her politics. For example: if you’re a crooked person, like, say, Richard Nixon, you’ll practice crooked politics and become a crooked politician. But, if you’re an honest straight forward person, like, say, Jimmy Carter, you’ll practice honest straight forward politics and become an honest politician.

Why must a politician be viewed in a negative way just because they’re involved in politics. And you don’t have to be involved in the political arena to be a politician. Your statement shows how we can place a negative label on people, then pass judgement based on preconceived notions. Not all politicians and/or politics are bad or negative.

Remember, an awful lot of politics go on in church’s, on jobs and in personal relationships. It’s neither all good or all bad. DON’T BE LAZY AND SIMPLY GIVE IN TO THAT OLD WORN OUT CLICHE’ THAT ASSUMES ALL POLITICIANS ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY.

MWC-exactly what did my Nov 4th, 11:41PM post say that needs additonal attention from me? After all, we proved that YES WE CAN win, because YES WE DID win. What’s you point?

By Space Mountain

November 5, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

O.K. That is one heckuva way to not give an answer. My premise of a politician was one who is publicly electected by the citizens of this nation to United States Government office. Not churches not jobs not relationships. With that being established I withdraw my question. Because through your non- answer I can only conclude that you do trust politicians. Not that I really care, that is your choice, your right, and I can respect that. However naive I may think that is. Peace Ken.

By Ken Strickland

November 6, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

SPACE MOUNTAIN-I did answer your question, and with a detailed explanation. I told you I don’t pass judgement on a person just because he or she is a politician. Judging people based strictly on arbitrarily assigned catagories or labels, or juding the many by the actions of the few, is the foundation for racism and sexism. Please don’t read too much into that statement, because I wasn’t insinuating anything about you.

By Space Mountain

November 7, 2008 7:45 AM | Link to this

yawn