Falcons

By brewdawg

December 12, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

I don’t think it matters whether Garcia plays or not. I think the Falcons win this one either way. As for the not to bloggers, I’m glad to see the AJC doing something about it. Sadly though, I doubt we make it to 50 posts before it gets closed down.

By Bruce

December 12, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

The Falcons defense is going to have to step in order for the Falcons to pull this one out. Not to mention win the last two games for a shot. Either way I am impressed with Ryan and Turner. I NEVER thought White would make it to the Pro Bowl either but they’ve had a great year and hope it carries over to into the next 20 years.

By BB

December 12, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

I think it is far more important to see how our offense reacts to the ‘bucs Defense. Our D should be good enough to contain whoever is QBng the ‘bucs O.

TPA should be able to slow down our run. I think this should be the time for Ryan to have his best game of the year. Get ready to run WR’s

By SirReal

December 12, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Well, I think we have to come out fast as always and get a couple 3 and outs to demoralize them. If we’re able to go up 14-0, they’ll be in for a long day against our running game. If that doesn’t work, I think we have a guy capable of getting things done if he needs to. ;) (As long as Smitty sticks to his aggressive style and gives him a chance.LOL) Dirty Birds over Suck-a-neers by a TD. :)

By singndablues

December 12, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

It all falls on the defense. They haven’t been up to the level of a playoff team lately.

By jack

December 12, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

All I have to say is, other than Detroit, any NFL team that does not pay attention to execution on offense and “bow up” on defense is beat. All too often, the past Falcons have had easy wins just to evade them and miss a playoff berth and this team we play Sunday, with or without Garcia, is one well coached, focused, MAD, football team. I hope Coach Smith does not have it in his head to run, heck or high water, especially if they are focused to shut it down. Matt can read the D and adjust accordingly. If he is allowed to, we win; if not, the trap is set to ruin this marvelous season.

By Stephen

December 12, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

I think our defense is going to be fired up no matter who QBs the Bucs. I know they want to prove that last week was a blip on the radar, not a trend to worry about. The big question is can we score on them. I am sure Mularky was looking at film from Monday night, and Ryan will be ready to make up for the first half in TB. I feel good about Sunday, and based on the offseason, I can’t believe I am saying that. Go Falcons!

By Bruce

December 12, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

The Falcons defense is going to have to step in order for the Falcons to pull this one out. Not to mention win the last two games for a shot. Either way I am impressed with Ryan and Turner. I NEVER thought White would make it to the Pro Bowl either but they’ve had a great year and hope it carries over to into the next 20 years.

By sickfan

December 12, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

I think it helps if Garcia is injured, but I agree that we win the game either way. We need to come out and paste the bucs early. Let’s get that crowd in the dome going crazy before kickoff. I am worried about Minnesota too now that the Williamson’s are playing for sure. Maybe we get to face Tarvis instead of Gus - either way Peterson is pretty great.

BTW, thank you for asking people to refrain from racial comments on the blog. One of the great things about sports is that people of all different backgrounds can come together to root for their team or against another team. We can all agree that some players (an people generally) that are dumber then others, but there is no reason to be hateful.

GO BIRDS - Beat the Succaneers

By And we all kknow...

December 12, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

…what happened the last time we played a team with a 2nd team QB! Hope we focus better this time!

By Barry

December 12, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

It does not matter who the Buccanneers put back there at quarterback. They and their team are going down. It’s not about them. It’s about us. It’s about how we know we are a different and better team than they played last time and it will show in a drastic way come game time. It will be all about how aggressive, tactical, and smart we play. I know we will be ready. Our play will be consistant, hard working, teamwork football, on all accords. on both sides of the ball. We have a “BONE TO PICK”. WE OWE THEM ONE IN “OUR HOUSE”: THE GEORGIA DOME. They can have Joe Montanna to Snoop Dog quarterbacking, we are “MAD” and we are going to take this game in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!!” LET’S BRING IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SEE YOU AT THE DOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

         "ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!"

Ringold

By Josh

December 12, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

I just hope that the butts are all in the seats 5 minutes before kickoff. The Falcons need the dome rocking loud the whole game!!!!!!!!!!! Go Birds

By Sarah B

December 12, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Come Sunday, here is what we, the 12th man need to do - one be on time to your seats, be prepared to lose your voice and help the D by being loud on every down not just the 3rd.We need to show our TEAM that WE CARE Sunday. I know I will. Sure would be sweet to make the playoffs after last years disapointment. I’m happy I didn’t bail on my tickets the way a lot of fans did. GO FALCONS!!!!!

By Falcon4Ever

December 12, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

OUR OFF vs. BUCS DEF- I hope we don’t out-think ourselves again. A balanced offensive attack with Turner getting 100+ and Ryan getting 200-300 seems to be our best bet.

OUR DEF vs. BUCS OFF- Should be easy. Don’t let Graham/Dunn look like anything but the average backs that they are and prevent the wideouts from having career days and we should be fine.

SPECIAL TEAMS- Whew. They’ve blown it the past few weeks. Step it up boys and PLEASE don’t allow TB to get their 2nd ever kick return!

UNSUNG HERO- Looks like Jenkins is on the rise and watch for Harry Douglas and Justin Peele to have good games.

By Granddawg

December 12, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

This makes me nervous. Every time we get a sub the Falcons make them look like the second-coming of Joe Montana or Gale Sayers. Hope that doesn’t happen this time.

NOTE: Thank you DOL for your effort to clean things up on this blog. There is no reason this can’t be a forum for all without all of the hate and foolishness. Again, thanks.

By Pete

December 12, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Garcia, the 5’2” worm, will play if they bring him out in a wheel chair. He is a fanatical, arrogant player who will only leave the field on a shovel. LOL

By Sarah B

December 12, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Also, I too would like to thank D LED for cleaning up the blog. I like to read and comment on FOOTBALL! I had just stopped reading and skipped over all of that other nonsence a long time ago….

By Bruce

December 12, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

They’re going have to start using the tight-end more. That will open up the running game alot faster than one deep threat. 5, 6 or even 10 yard dumps to the TE will move the TB linebackers back some and give Turner a chance to shot a hole.

And for goodness sake, please try at least one outside running play when you have 1st and goal on the 2.

By Clayton

December 12, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

I happened to read one of the articles this morning about the Pro Bowl and found out the even though Roddy White leads the league in recieving he isn’t even in the top in WR votes for that position. What a Travesty!

By Needabailout, too!

December 12, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

With Gargia out, our prospects are looking far better already. And the following week’s opponent, Minnesota Vikings, has a QB problen also. Ferrotte has a vertebral fracture and will not play, leaving Tavaris to carry the team. Without a snap in eight games, he’ll be rusty and nervous. Falcon could consider these next two game wins a ‘gimme’, but we cannot be assumptive that these two wins are in the bag, and we cannot commit ridiculous penalties. And Coach Smith, go for it on fourth and five. Othere than that, so, so excited that fate is in our favor. 10-5?? Dancin’ in the streets?

By The G

December 12, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

If we can man up like we did against Carolina and run the ball, the game will not be close. Look for Ryan to have a great day. He won’t admit it, but I think he wants to show the Bucs D that he’s not a rookie anymore.

By littlebird

December 12, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Better not just rely on Turner to carry the load. They will be stacked to stop him. What I’m wondering is if there is a letdown on Norwood’s part. Seems he hasn’t done much since the high-stepping TD a few games back that drew a penalty. Is he sulking after getting an earful from Smitty on the sideline? If so, then he needs to just sit until he decides to run with power instead of falling if someone breathes on him. I know he has been hurt but he declared he’s ok … he’s not showing it!!! Snelling has pretty good speed and power so maybe Jerious needs to watch for awhile. And, please, don’t take the game out of the QB’s hands if he’s hot … make them stop him not you coach!

By ryans hope

December 12, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

I think Garcia out of the lineup would help in that we could maybe apply a little more pressure, but I still think we can win this game if we can bring a level of intensity similar to the New Orleans and Panthers games at Georgia Dome. Sometimes playing a QB that you haven’t practiced for can be a problem because you don’t know how to game plan him. I think we should come out passing a bit more early to keep Tampa Bay from loading up to stop Turner like the Saints did last week. Also, I’d like to see Norwood get more touches if he’s healthy enough or Ovie or Snelling involved a bit more just to change things up.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 12, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Wouldn’t it be easier to simply remove offensive comments while keeping the blog open, like pretty much every other blog on the internets does, or is that asking too much of the mighty mighty AJC?

By Boo Boo

December 12, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

I think there is as much chance of Garcia not playing as there is for Abraham not playing. So what if a player doesn’t practice. At this time of year they (quarterbacks especially) have learned the plays, so practice is not that necessary. Besides, if the Falcons plan on stopping the run as well as they did against the Saints, all Garcia has to do is turn and hand off to Dunn or Williams. But, I bet Garcia is not as hurt as Chuckie wants us to think he is.

By Truth

December 12, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Davenpoop is right about filtering the blog rather than shutting it down. The falcons will win on Sunday, and win big. The QB-injured Bucs don’t have a chance in The Dome against an angry Atlanta team with a much-improved Offense that still has a bitter taste in its mouth from week 2 and a Defense that is determined to show that they are better than what everyone saw last week in New Orleans.

By Tom

December 12, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Monitoring blogs is, indeed, the best way to police them. However, newspapers are in a death spiral now. For two hundred years they could make an obscene profit. Readership has been declining since the advent of television news. It accelerated with the advent of 24-hour cable news. Now, newspapers can compete in breaking news with broadcast through their Web sites. Only it’s been more than a decade now, and newspapers cannot figure out how to make their Web sites profitable. It’s the journalists that make a newspaper worthwhile. Newspaper journalism is still the best in the world, but newspaper companies fire journalists by the dozens in cost-cutting moves.

The answer to your question is, the AJC is too cheap to monitor its blogs.

By rgbutterfly

December 12, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

The FALCONS will win!! The guys feel that they let themselves, the city and their coach down. These “new” Falcons play for the fans, not to receive a paycheck. I believe in these new falcons. They play to win and play with passion. I believe we finally have a team on the field, not a bunch of guys who don’t care about the team concept.

By Jerious

December 12, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

The “earful,” Smitty gave me was “Good job!” There was no penalty on the play, though I almost got caught by starting to step too early. Won’t do that again. But, no, I’m not sulking.

By freddy falcon

December 12, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Harry Douglas!

By Getaway

December 12, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

According to ESPN this is going to be a game against the 2 best QB’s over the last 5 weeks. The article is here.

Most surprising? Ryan’s 102+ passer rating.

By falcondawg

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

BEAUTIFUL!! All comments thus far are football related!! Thank you AJC for allowing Falcon fans to enjoy the blog with having to tolerate the haters.

You’re right on, Bruce. Two weeks in a row we failed to score from the goal line because we tried to force it up the middle. Let Turner get up a head of steam and run that pill outside. If a body gets in his way then, he can lower the shoulder on them!

By Dirt dobber

December 12, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Every body knows Tampa will be ready.It seams like they have our number.Anybody who thinks this game will be easy has a nother think coming.Kiffin will have thier defence ready he allways does.We have to run the ball are it will be a long day sunday.this will be with out a dout a fight to the finish.If the falcons lose they get to watch the playoffs from home.Parish the though.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

December 12, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

THIS IS GREAT — A FOOTBALL BLOG

Just got Tampa Bay’s injury report. Garcia is “officially” listed as questionable (50/50) and was limited in practice today.

Gruden is a little old-school on the practice deal because of all of the shifts and formations. So I can’t see him rolling a quarterback out there who hasn’t practiced much.

Also, the starting DTs — Jovan Haye and Chris Hovan — are also on the report as limited for today and questionable for Sunday. That could be bigger than Garcia, because of their roles in stopping the run game.

By Boo Boo

December 12, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Tampa was driving the NFC South bus last week, until Carolina took over the driver’s seat. The Falcons have to throw the Bucs under that bus this Sunday. If they can’t do it, then the Falcons will be fighting the Saints for last place in the division.

Crunch Time Winners in December are contenders, while losers are pretenders.

By darrell starks

December 12, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Good he dont play our defense was horrible sunday i hop THEY STEP UP TO THE PLATE. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TheManMike

December 12, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Love the new blog….

DOL - I feel like TB will try to run with Dunn alot. Being in the Dome, and considering what he did to us last time - i can see it. But, i think its a great idea. As i feel this coaching staff also feels this and has prepared for the run. Abe is gona get a sack or two and Davis will as well. Hopefully Anderson shows up with some pass D and Krory FEARMann Gets all in this one too.

As for Offense - Man, oh man. We will run it all day, but Ryan is raring to go in this game 2. Rematch. I see many yards.

And Ovie “OH MY” Mughelli should be the 4th and short man.

GO BIRD!

By Eric C.

December 12, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

As expected…the Carolina game took a toll on the Bucs, not to mention the short week of preparation. I hope Garcia does play with a limp…could be a long game for him.

littlebird — those injured ribs are still hurting Norwood undoubtedly. I hope you are right and someone else can step up.

By Jerseyfalcon

December 12, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Regardless who’s playing quaterback this Sunday…the falcons have to worry about the Bucs defense. I doubt very much Tampa will have two games in a row where they don’t show up on D.

By rms

December 12, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Yes, its finally a football blog. I think if we the fans show up and give the team a boost (home-field advantage) then we may can pull it off. One thing I noticed in that Panthers-Buccaneers game was that the Panthers running backs made plays. Meaning they broke tackles to extend the drive and didnt settle for field goals. They scored touchdowns when needed. Thats is what we have to do. Our running backs must make plays especially on third down to keep the drive alive, that means making the defense miss tackles, break a few tackles, and convert on third down. If we do that, we can stand a chance of winning. Of course our defense must stop them and make plays too! Hopefully our defense is mad since they got pushed around and punked last week and come out fired up for 4 quarters!! What do you guys think?

By Exodus Mentality

December 12, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

This Falcons team is good enough to beat a full strength Tampa team, as long as we are basically healthy. Is Baker coming back this week, and is L. Robinson coming back at all? I too had a feeling the Bucs were going to be feeling those body blows this week. But as has been pointed out, everybody is nicked up this late in the season; somebody still has to step up.

Everybody is talking about how the Bucs are fired up after a humiliating defeat. The Falcons should be just as fired up after giving up yet another game they should have won. I too am feeling all the love in the room. But somebody has to say this, not being unreasonably negative, but this team should have three more wins. They gave up the games to Philly, Denver, and New Orleans. This organization has to develop that killer instinct or we’ll never be able to hope for more than a fluke season here and there.

This may be the game that tells whether we are over the hump yet. Even 5 wins would have been considered a successful season this year, so 9 wins therefore is spectacular. But this team is good enough to go head to head with anyone in the NFL. These players have a chance to take advantage of a perfect storm of good fortune, good management, good coaching, good chemistry, and good players. There may even be a few “greats” in that bunch. If they are really over the hump, this game is the start of a 3-0 run to end the season, a huge playoff run, and who knows where we could end up.

If they aren’t over the hump, if they tank this very winnable game, I’m going to feel just a little bit let down. And if that happens, we best hope Dimitroff, Smith, and Ryan aren’t just the latest flashes in the pan.

No prognostication this week. Just go win the game. Go Dirty Birds! Defend The Dome!

By "Charles", The Original

December 12, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

Last Sunday’s football game was one of the Falcons’ best performances of the season. In a gut wrenching defeat, our team showed determination, will, and the mettle needed to win the Super Bowl. New Orleans would take the lead on the scoreboard, and like clockwork, the Falcons answered the challenge by recapturing the lead on the next series of downs or immediately thereafter… But when the final second ticked off the game clock, the lot had fallen on the New Orleans Saints. The Atlanta Falcons had suffered a second legitimate defeat of the season… In the first legitimate loss, the Denver Broncos defeated the Falcons by four points, 24-20. In the second defeat, the New Orleans Saints won by four points, 29-25…

How about Matt Ryan going at throttle up? His play at quarterback was magical. It reminded most people in my circle of Michael Jordan’s performance against Clyde Drexler and the Portland Trailblazers. You remember that game in the NBA finals. It was unreal how Michael Jordan was dropping threes. And it was simply otherworldly how Matt Ryan was throwing the football, especially on third down… It’s a sign of what’s to come in the next three games and beyond.

It doesn’t matter whether Garcia plays or not, the record is clear. It shows that each team in the NFC South takes care of their home turf. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are coming to the Georgia Dome on Sunday. The Dome will be rocking and the Falcons will defend it. When the Falcons have lost on Sunday, they have been unbeatable the following game. They have yet to lose after being defeated. So as we continue our journey to Super Bowl XLIII, look for the Falcons to once again bounce back strong against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Falcons will win flying away, oh glory, 31-21.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 12, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

24-6….SOUNDS FAMILIAR?

WHAT MAKES YOU PEOPLE THINK YOU CAN MAGICALLY BEAT THE BUCS THIS TIME AROUND WHEN YOUR QB HAD A 29 QB RATING THE FIRST TIME?

BEATDOWN PART II —- SEASON OVER

By rms

December 12, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

hey exodus mentality you are right those should have been wins. But look at that game at San Diego we should have lost but somehow won. We were practically tellling the Chargers we dont wont to win this game so here you can have it. And dont forget about that last second win against the Bears. We definetly should have lost that one. So those are at least two that we won that we should not have so it kinda goes both ways. Every season there are games you lose that you should have won and games you win and you know you should have lost. Hopefully this Sunday and the following weeks are all solid wins!! Go Falcons!!

By dacha

December 12, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

KUDOS to the AJC for finally putting some guidelines on the blog! Hey, D-Led: Got any info on Robinson and Baker? If we want to win this game, we must pressure the quarterback, whoever he is. I think we should permanenty restructure our D-Line and put Jamaal at interior tackle and Biermann at the end opposite Abraham. The rookie just looks like he wants it alot more.

GO FALCONS!!!!

By monty

December 12, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

We have to be able to run, to open up the play action and we have to stop their running. We do that and we win, they don’t have a Matt Ryan! If they can run Cadillac and we don’t get the Burner going it’a a long day!

By The Grinch

December 12, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Tampa’s mad and they always play us well. I think they’ll key off on the run and I don’t see Turner having a big game without the o-line really stepping up. Norwood’s obviously not playing well and should be replaced (at least in the run game) with Snelling until he’s healed. If our o-line gets some good blocking going we can wear them down with Turner and Snelling splitting about 40-45 carries (especially if their DT’s are questionable, as you say; we should be able to stuff it up the gut). But I doubt they blitz Ryan again like they did last time, and if they stuff the run he should be able to pick up the slack.

Defensively, if Garcia’s hobbled and can’t scramble we can put an extra man on Bryant and we should be ok. Galloway’s finally lost a step and their run game’s nothing special. It’ll likely be close, but we should be able to pull it out. Just hope Dunn doesn’t get inspired or McCown doesn’t step in and have a coming out party.

By cb

December 13, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

Coach Smith & staff will have this team ready to play. I look for Abraham and Babineaux to be effective Sunday. The table is also set for Ryan to capitalize on play action. This team has put itself in position for a playoff berth and will perform as they have up to this point—as professionals. The Falcons will make the playoffs this year at 11-5. All Falcon fans enjoy “the process”. Thank you Dimitroff. GO FALCONS!!!!

By Meanwhile.....

December 13, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this

While the Falcons prepare for a CRAFTY GARCIA, disgraced, former Falcons quarterback Mike Vick prepares for a DIRTY SANCHEZ from one his prison manlovers.

By saint

December 13, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

Request the AJC just remove offensive blogs rather than shutting down the entire football blog.

Garcia will probably start…they just want us to let down our guard.

By bamabird

December 13, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

The last time we played Tampa there were reports that Garcia wasnt going to play, so im not buying that and I hope the Falcons are not buying it either. Go Falcons!

By Exodus Mentality

December 13, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

@rms, da bears should never have been close enough for us to need a last second comeback, but the fact remains that this team was good enough to do it. The Chargers showed that in spite of the fact that they have some great players, they don’t have what it takes to be a winning organization this year. That in no way absolves the Birds from the giving up a game to Denver in the dome, and just not bringing the A game to a slumping Philly team. I’ll give you that the NFC South is simply a beast with home field, which is why this is such a defining game for me.

@VS2, man you know I have had your back when no one else did. But with all the hype you’re giving Tampa, you will have absolutely no moral ground to say anything when (if) the Falcons hold serve at home. You may not like be feeling his game, but it’s not fair to say Ryan, and in fact the whole team, hasn’t improved drastically since that first game in Tampa. I seem to recall Tampa put that same style of whuppin on Carolina the first time around, and we all saw how that came out in the rematch. I’m just sayin’, be careful what kind of checks you let your mouth write for you.

By Boo Boo

December 13, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

I lost count of how many times the Atlanta Falcon franchise has lost a game they should have won. Too many to keep up with. A bad Colts team (3-13) blocked a punt and beat the Birds in 1986. On and on. Gosh, seems not too long ago MV7 led the Falcons to a loss against a bad Lions team (11/5/06; the Lions would finish 3-13); and then lose to a Chris Weinke-led Panthers team (Weinke had never won a game he started before that game) the same year (12/24/06; the Panthers would finish 8-8, rather than the 7-9 Falcons). The Panthers ran a Wildcat offense that whole game, Wienke only throwing seven passes; so it does not matter if Garcia starts or not. If Tampa plays with 11 men on the field on offense the Falcons will have their work cut out for them on defense.

Moral of the story Stop counting hatched chickens when history says Atlanta has laid more rotten eggs than ones that came home to roost. PRAY we do not get embarassed, and HOPE we can have a chance for victory in the end. The Bucs are not a bad team. The Falcons are not a playoff team yet.

By This Gets Old = Profiler

December 13, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this

Well as I wrote Monday night the Bucs losing in the fashion that they did was the worst outcome for us.

Two things in our favor: 1. Bucs don’t play well on the road. Behind at K.C., Detroit, Chicago. They did come back and win those games.

1. They had a short week of practice and have to come back on the road again and they lost in a really physical game.

However Tampa Bay MUST win this game. They’re playing for home field advantage still.

The Falcons also MUST win this game. No two ways about it Atlanta must win out because of the loss at Philly. In fact if they’d beaten the Bengals Atlanta would be behind two teams now.

I’ve said all season two things. Get the ball to Norwood “in space on the run” and use the TE. Against the Tampa Two you’ve got to use three WR’s and then still hit the TE. We couldn’t run against N.O. last week and that’s troubling. Tampa’s defense isn’t just Kiffin. Derrick Brooks is a voracious studier of game tapes and he does have input. Peele isn’t the blocker that Hartsock is so that’s troubling also.

Defensively Atlanta couldn’t be more “vanilla” They certainly put the lie to the “Reggie Bush can’t run up the middle” observation. Garcia is such a pain because he moves around in the pocket so much. If we can’t bring pressure and get up early they could put the game away early. It’s not a defense where you make a living by coming from behind.

Tampa is also not above being willing to take a penalty or fine for a late QB hit.

As for closing the blog down I did suggest that but doing it in the long run is counter productive. The egomaniacal anti-social personality views that as a victory. He’s not here to discuss football at all.

By John

December 13, 2008 5:00 AM | Link to this

WE NOW HAVE A CLASS TEAM WE SHOULD REPECT EACH OTHER WITHOUT THE TRASH COMMENTS. WE CAN DISAGREE BUT AGREEABLE FOR OUR FALCONS. OUR TEAM, COACHES, MANAGEMENT AND OWNER HAVE DONE A GREAT JOB THIS YEAR. WE WILL WIN THIS WEEKEND.

By Eric C.

December 13, 2008 5:44 AM | Link to this

Profile, great analysis. Unless the Falcons get a tie in the last 3 games (highly unlikely) then there is no tiebreaker concern with the Eagles.

If the Falcons lose agains the Bucs, a tie with the Cowboys at the end of the season does not bode well should they end up with identical conference records. After conference records, the next tiebreaker is record against common opponents…in this case, GB, TB, Philly, St. Louis. Even assumuming Falcons beat St. Louis and Dallas loses at Philly, they would have a better record (3-2) than the Falcons (2-3).

Assuming the Falcons beat the Bucs and end up tied with the Cowboys (with same scenario above) then both teams would have 3-2 records against common opponents, then the next tiebreaker is winning percentage of those teams that were beaten. As of today, the Cowboys get a slight edge over the Falcons in that category.

It is of course way too early to dwell on the tiebreakers at this point…but it is interesting to consider the possibilites.

Bottom line: If the Cowboys are due to lose one more game…it would be best if they lost to Philadelphia I suppose (as long as Philadelphia loses at least one other game) since that would cost them an NFC loss and make their common opponents record weaker. If the Falcons are due to lose one more game…best it would be against MN since they should win division and not be involved with wild card race and losing to St. Louis or Tampa would worsen the Falcons common opponents record vs the Cowboys. Whew…

By Falcon Tradition

December 13, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this

Just saw the last blog and I’m extremely proud of the FOOTBALL FOCUS of the comments!!! Look for big games from Ryan, White, Jenkins and Snelling on O. Our offensive line is ready to make up for the poor showing in Tampa. On D look for a great game from the LBs. Abraham gets 2 sacks. Falcons 31 Bucs 17.

By cb

December 13, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this

@Eric C. your playoff scenario is correct, but applies only if we tie with the Cowboys. This won’t happen. As you pointed out the Cowboys are due to lose one (this week to the Giants) but more than likely two (the Philadelphia game). The Falcons will win out. This week’s Tampa game is a statement game in which the coaching staff will have this team ready to play—and at a high level. Gruden’s tactic of having Garcia listed as questionable to affect our preparation is laughable at best. The Vikings are one-dimensional and will not be effective against 8 in the box (I expect Houston, Foxworth, and Coleman to have big games). We will DISMANTLE the Rams at home. We need personnel upgrades on the defensive side of the ball that will be addressed in the offseason but this team has adequate enough personnel on the roster now to make the playoffs. GO FALCONS!!!!

By cb

December 13, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this

@Falcon Tradition, I agree with your assessment of the current thread—very good posts that are FOOTBALL FOCUSED. We also have to downplay the fact that the Bucs will be angry because of their performance Monday night. The focus should be on how angry the Birds will be about their performance against the run to the SAINTS. As I stated in an earlier post—this is a team of professionals playing like professionals and they will be MOTIVATED as such. GO FALCONS!!!!

By Arthur

December 13, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

I have been reading these AJC Blogs for about 2 years. In the past by the time I got to the 10th comment somebody insulted someone else and the whole blog went down hill. Thank you for cleaning it up. Now children can read it.

By falcon

December 13, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

I would prefer to see Garcia play. If we can’t beat TB in our house, we don’t need to see the playoffs anyhow. I’ll be in 321 doing my part to cheer the Falcons on. The key IMO is getting off to a good start. I don’t think we’ve won a game this year where we got behind early. I hope Mararkey leaves the gadget plays at home. Let’s line it up and kick some butt!

By bigeasy830

December 13, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

Win or lose the Falcons still have a great chance for the play-offs, Win 2 out of 3 last games and they are in. The other teams in the Wild-card race have tough schedules. Chicago has the easiest but the Falcons hold the tie-breaker head to head win. Philly is trying to sneak up there to. The Wild card is wide open in both the NFC and AFC, this has been one of the most competitive seasons in the league when you talk parity. If the Falcons win this game, no way they lose the The Rams so they are in. Lose this one it will be tough to rebound on the rode against the Vikings but do able. But if they do finish 10-6 or 9-7 or even 11-5 with next year tough schedule will they still be

THE NEXT CLEVELAND BROWNS?

By dhj_1962

December 13, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

faclons must win all 3 remaining games to make the playoffs, ask them…they will tell you. 10-6 wont do it. TB and Dallas have the tiebreaker over them.

By bigeasy830

December 13, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

by dhj_1962, The Cowboys have to play The Giants, and The Ravens at home then go to Philly. With TO acting a fool and don’t forget about Pacman and Jerry Jones calling out is toughest player Barber, they are a team in serious trouble. 2 teams make the wildcard and at 10-6 the Falcons will be one of those 2. The only team that I think have a chance of bumping a 10-6 Falcons team from the play-offs is Philly. The play the Brows, then go to Washington and then play Dallas. Philly is getting hot, Andy Reid sitting McNabb really sparked a fire under them, I say they beat the Browns and The Skins are fading fast, The Falcons may need a Dallas victory to secure a spot if The Falcons lose one of their last 3. But we will see, this thing is wide open now. A lost by a team this week does not mean its over by a long shot and the Bears are still hanging in there. Bet you Lovie Smith wish he would have kicked the ball deep now.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

December 13, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

About to go Christmas shopping. It’s got to be crazy out there. I will have to man up and not get knocked off the point of attack in the checkout line.

Robinson doesn’t look like a go tomorrow. While I wouldn’t be surprised if they start Sam Baker. Not sure I would mess with the line’s chemistry. They have given up just 13 sacks this season.

By The Grinch

December 13, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Is Robinson made of crystal? Good lord.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 13, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

24-6 & 29 QB RATING

YOU GUYS KEEP SAYING RYAN HAS IMPROVED SINCE THAT EARLIER BEAT DOWN, BUT THE BUCS DIDN’T EVEN HAVE FILM ON RYAN THEN…..

————-NOW WITH FILM————

IT’S GOING TO GET WORST. FIRST OF ALL THEY ONLY RUSH 4, SO THAT’S A TIGHT FIELD TO GET PASS COMPLETIONS…..

A WORST BLOOD BATH THAN THE FIRST

MINNESOTA WILL ACTUALLY BE A TOUGHER GAME THAN TAMPA……GOING AGAINST THAT WILLIAMS WALL IS SUICIDAL AND……..

ADRIAN PETERSON IS A BEAST

IF HE GOT 300+ AGAINST A SOLID CHARGER DEFENSE LAST SEASON, HE JUST MIGHT BREAK THAT RECORD AGAINST THE FALCONS

————-UP NEXT—————

HAM, TURKEY AND THE ANNUAL DRAFT DAY

By Dr.s Johnson & Johnson

December 13, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

As a baby, VICK SUPPORTER 2 had his hiney wiped by his momma and his diaper changed by her too.

That was a Big Boy rating of a 2.1, simply because he knew how to stick his legs in the air to help momma.

60 years later, VICK SUPPORTER 2 still has to have his momma wipe his hiney and change his diapers. Still a 2.1 human being rating.

I see how he can see if something happened once, it will always be the same.

Grow up VICK SUPPORTER 2. Wipe yourself clean.

By Stephen

December 13, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

When the Falcons win the game on Sunday against the Bucs, I hope all the negative bloggers will find someplace else, other than an AJC Falcons blog, to vent their negative comments and frustrations. We don’t need the negativity here any longer so just go away and get a life. GO FALCONS!!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 13, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

24-6 & 29 QB RATING

YOU GUYS KEEP SAYING RYAN HAS IMPROVED SINCE THAT EARLIER BEAT DOWN, BUT THE BUCS DIDN’T EVEN HAVE FILM ON RYAN THEN…..

————-NOW WITH FILM————

IT’S GOING TO GET WORST. FIRST OF ALL THEY ONLY RUSH 4, SO THAT’S A TIGHT FIELD TO GET PASS COMPLETIONS…..

A WORSE BLOOD BATH THAN THE FIRST

MINNESOTA WILL ACTUALLY BE A TOUGHER GAME THAN TAMPA……GOING AGAINST THAT WILLIAMS WALL IS SUICIDAL AND……..

ADRIAN PETERSON IS A BEAST

IF HE GOT 300+ AGAINST A SOLID CHARGER DEFENSE LAST SEASON, HE JUST MIGHT BREAK THAT RECORD AGAINST THE FALCONS

————-UP NEXT—————

HAM, TURKEY AND THE ANNUAL DRAFT DAY

————FINAL ANALYSIS————

2004 AND COUNTING

By D. Bell

December 13, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Thanks for all those numbers Vick Supporter. I can’t wait until he gets our of prison and signs with some team in Canada. This way you can continue to support him elsewhere while the rest of us continue supporting a much improved team.

By Granddawg

December 13, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

DOL announces he’s going Christmas shopping and it starts. Why don’t you children go out and play and leave us adults alone?

By Boo Boo

December 13, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

What does this mean? (Rhetorical question)

24-6 & 29 QB RATING

On September 13, 2008 (NFL Week 2), at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Atlanta Falcons 24-9. The score was only 17-9 (potentially 1 score from being tied), with 5 minutes to play. That was when the defense allowed Ernest Graham to run 68 yards for a TD that put the game away. As for their run defense, the Falcons tied a team record that day, for only giving up 2 yards rushing in the first quarter; and they only gave up only 36 yards rushing in the whole first half.

As for Matt Ryan’s Passer Rating, given it was his first NFL road game, on grass, against a strong defensive team, he certainly cannot be blamed for having rookie jitters. Take away his first nine passes (0-9, 0TD, 2 Int) and his final numbers would have been 13 of 24, 158 yards, 0 TD, 0 Int, which was a QB Rating of 74.7.

By wildbird

December 13, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

last time the guy who really beat us was Grahman and hes out for the season or dosent anybody keep up with the nfl news but me

By 2 RETROPPUS KCIV

December 13, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan will be fine. He has proven already that he can quarterback in the NFL. With more experience and an offseason to improve the D, just sit back watch this frachise take flight. Being this close to making the playoffs has created this illusion that anything less would be a disappointment of a season. PLEASE! While I would love for us to make the playoffs and we should considering how we have played thus far, I will not flip the “bandwagon” over and set it on fire just because we don’t. With Matt Ryan as our QB and Tommy D in the front office, well that just puts a big ol’ smile on my face when thinking about the future of our Atlanta Falcons. :)

By Vick Supporter

December 13, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

My God, it seems that the falcons havegotten so many breaks this season. First they start out playin 2 extremely weak teams to start the season. They play a REAL TEAM (BUCS) and get their butts handed to them. Got beat down by the panthers, basically all of the good teams beat them and teams like New Orleans have had problems w/injuries. The charges don’t have Merriman. Just looks to me that the Falcons have gotten alot of breaks this season, maybe they deserved it after the 2007 season. It won’t happen next year, they can’tsneak up on anyone next season, and everyone in the league fears Vick at QB,even after being away 2 seasons. Redemption is near…………… January 09 is a new beginning……

By Granddawg

December 13, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

My God Vick Supporter, will you ever give us a break from your Johnny-one-note diatribes? At least number them(Are there about 3?)and then you can just post a number and save the space. Please!

By Vick Supporter

December 13, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

@Granddawg, its the truth. Its seems that the falcons have recieved every break this season. Almost every team they played had something going on. Just an observation that I noticed. Vick 09.

By VICK SUPPORTER 3

December 13, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

Using the same logic about Mike Vick’s return, such that his future should be exactly based on his past:

7 WINS, 9 LOSSES, 75.7 QB RATING

YOU, FOOL, WOULD THINK A GREAT QUARTERBACK, GIVEN A TEAM THAT BEGAN A SEASON WITH 5 WINS AND 2 LOSSES, COULD GET HIS TEAM TO THE PLAYOFFS ….

————— NOT VICK IN 2006 —————-

VICK CHOKED AGAINST THE SAINTS … TWICE

13 - 31, 47.9 QB RATING

VICK IN SECOND GAME AGAINST THE SAINTS IN ATLANTA THEN HE SHOWS THE FANS THEY ARE #1 IN HIS HEART, WITH HIS MIDDLE FINGER

13 - 17, 43.4 QB RATING

VICK VS. THE CLEVELAND CLOWNS IN ATLANTA

14 - 30, 51.1 QB RATING

VICK VS. THE DETROIT LIONESSES

3 - 10, 20.6 QB RATING

THAT BEARS REPEATING 20.6 QB RATING!!!

VICK VS. THE PANTHERS IN ATLANTA

VICK 09 HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA

OH CANADA, MY NEW HOME AND FORGIVING LAND

HA HA HA HA HA

TOO FUNNY

By falcon47

December 13, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

The Falcons will redeem the loss in Tampa in the Dome on Sunday and again in January. Count on it. See you in Tampa

By MWC

December 13, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Nice try DOL…

By VS2/VS

December 13, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Ya see, we have this deal with Orlando…so get over it my caucasian friends…

By WHY

December 13, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

It just seems that VS and VS2 can’t keep there hands out of there pants when they continue to have fantasys about this guy, and you condone it O bedwetter…STOP tALKING ABOUT IT AND DO SOMETHING!!! Oh , I forgot once again… you work for the AJC. MY BAD

By NorwoodRocks

December 14, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Good job cutting out the crap here so we can talk football. Thanks for the updates on injuries too. Are you saying you believe we WILL see Baker out there Sunday?

By Panthers at Home

December 14, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Think you omitted the beating Falcons delivered to the Panthers here. Big Surprise. Also - Home teams have lost twice in the South this year. Please ignore this also.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

CONTENDERS OR PRETENDERS

———PRETENDERS BEAT————-

DETROIT

KANSAS CITY

OAKLAND

———-DECEMBER IS CRUNCH TIME——-

VS SAINTS (20TH RATED DEFENSE)…LOST

IN THE HORIZONS

TAMPA……VERY MOTIVATED AND P** OFF

————THEY WILL THEY YOUR HEART——-

AND…………..

THE WILLIAMS WALL & ADRIAN PETERSON……

———WILL EAT IT————-

MERRY CHRISTMAS

SEE YOU AGAIN AT…….

———ANNUAL DRAFT DAY————

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

43 YEARS OF AGONY

——-LETS COUNT THE WAYS———

NUMBER OF PLAYOFF APPEARANCES

—————-7——————

MV7 (2)

NUMBER OF DIVISIONAL TITLES

—————-3—————

STEVE BARTKOWSKI

CHRIS CHANDLER

MIKE VICK

——————-AND——————

NUMBER OF CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

——————2——————-

CHRIS CHANDLER

MIKE VICK

THIS HISTORY LESSON WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE ONE AND ONLY……….

——-VICK SUPPORTER 2————

AN AJC BLOGGER FOR AN ETERNITY

By Granddawg

December 14, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

DOL: The blog has deteriorated(once again)to a bunch of VS jibber- jabber. Time to pull the plug.

By Ronald Millsaps

December 14, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Hello—
Bears 30, Saints 23—I’m very, very glad the Bears won that game.

Falcons 41, Buccaneers 20—This game will be the game the Bucs have had coming for a long time now.

Redskins 23, Bengals 13

Titans 24, Texans 16

Packers 23, Jaguars 10

Dolphins 24, 49ers 17—This game will be a lot better than their Super Bowl appears to have been. Chad Pennington for runner-up to Matt Ryan for MVP.

Seahawks 20, Rams 17

Jets 30, Bills 10—Notice how Northern teams (Buffalo) get undeserved hype, whereas Southern teams (the SEC, for example) get the shaft? That action is typical of the prejudiced media.

Chargers 23, Chiefs 20

Colts 37, Lions 0

Cardinals 27, Vikings 23

Ravens 24, Steelers 17—Joe Flacco’s downfield ball is beautiful.

Panthers 30, Broncos 20

Patriots 31, Raiders 13

Giants 30, Cowboys 10—T.O. seriously has issues.

Eagles 30, Browns 17

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

45 MINUTES UNTIL…..

——ANNUAL DRAFT RITUAL————

By Kevin

December 14, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Yo VS2…number of SUPERBOWL games 1 Chris Chandler… DUMB A$$ !!! Back off the crack and your mother, ERR VS…

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

I’ll go ahead and beat Stendec to the punch….It’s all Keith Brooking’s fault the Falcons won/lost today.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

PITTSBURG VS RAVENS

—-ROOKIE OF THE YEAR ON DISPLAY——

JOE FLACCO YOU ROCK

By LULZ SUPPORTER III

December 14, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

OBVIOUS TROLL

—————IS—————

OBVIOUS

By ray

December 14, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

I love it.

“The Falcons have gotten a lot of breaks this year.”

So I take it that the guys who have been injured against the Falcons have NOT been injured against other teams as well? Of course not. Silly of me to ask. After all, that would mean that other teams are getting breaks, too. Like all the teams that get to face us with Sam Baker out, with John Abraham hurting. What about when Finneran couldn’t play? Or Grimes, Douglas, Robinson….

Would certain people be even talking about this if their belove Vick was on the field? Uh, no.

By old school

December 14, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Rhonde Barber said that Matt Ryan will set the standard for QB’s in three years.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

CARSON PALMER & MATT SCHAUB ALSO SET THE STANDARDS

HOW IS THAT WORKING OUT :)

——NO POSTSEASON FOR THEM EITHER——

GUESS POSTSEASON IS NOT A PRIORITY IN QUARTERBACK STANDARDS THESE DAYS

By old school

December 14, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

When opponents, especially Pro-Bowlers like R.Barber, watch film and make comments like that, -it shows the level of respect and admiration that they have for a rookie QB.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

HERE WE GO AGAIN

——-JUST LIKE DEATH & TAXES———

YOU CAN COUNT ON A LEAF PICK……

IN A PLAYOFF CHASE

WE NEED INTELLIGENT QUARTERBACKS WHO CAN READ DEFENSES…….

———AS I CONTINUE TO SAY———-

72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST

OH WAIT….IT WAS THE RECEIVER’S FAULT….AGAIN :)

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

BUST! BUST! BUST! BUST!!!!!!

——-ARE YOU KIDDING ME?————

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR?

HALL OF FAMER?

INTELLINGENT THINKER?

READ DEFENSES WELL?

72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST

By brewdawg

December 14, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Both INT’s were on Ryan. The first was underthrown, the second was an inaccurate pass on the run. Let’s see if he bounces back in the 2nd half. Please don’t take this as an anti-Ryan post. Love the kid, but he’s not having his best game.

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Hey, Jockstrap 2, its December 14th and my team is still in the playoff picture…leading at the half against a division opponent…its all good. Even if they lose today its been a fun ride. How are the Levenworth Lions doing this year…I hear they’ve got a new QB.

By Bravesfan79

December 14, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Love that defensive philosophy…Let em catch it all they want…Hopefully they will make a mistake…need a new D coordinator.

By Reality Cheque

December 14, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Chris Houston still backing away when HE is is the endzone?! My God, what lousy defense!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

SOUNDS LIKE RONDE BARBER SHOULD STICK TO PLAYING FOOTBALL :)

——-LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT———-

LEAF THROWS A PICK IN THE REDZONE WHEN THE TEAM WAS LEADING 10-0 AND COULD PUT THE GAME AWAY….

———THEN————

MINUTES LATER, LEAF THROWS A SECOND PICK WITH THE HALF WINDING DOWN…..

———-THAT SPORTS FAN————

IS A COACH KILLER

SO……….

YOU SPEND 72-MILLION DOLLARS FOR THIS?

————JOE FLACCO FOR 30-MIL?———

LEADING HIS TEAM DOWN THE STRETCH LIKE A CHAMPION……..

————AND————

LEAF LEADING THE OPPOSING TEAM TO THE POSTSEASON…..

NOW THAT’S A GOOD BARGAIN :)

———4-PICKS AGAINST TAMPA———

THIS MAY BE A 12 QB RATING BEFORE IT’S OVER!!!!!!!!!!

By stendec

December 14, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Cut Chris Houston and Keith Brooking now! At (X) halftime. Neither one can cover or tackle a damn elderly one-legged woman in a wheelchair. Houston was 55 yards off his guy which allowed Bucs touchdown with 11 seconds left in half! Brooking is too damn slow. Is he the only damn one available for blitzes? Pathetic! Guess what? Porous defense makes fifth string Buc QB look like Joe Montana in his damn prime! Matt Ryan looks like a scared rookie quarterback who does not have a clue. A loss in this one knocks team progress back to Mike Vick or even Chris Miller days. Absolutely unacceptable!

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Hey Stendec what game are you watching. I saw Brooking make the tackle on a third down stop and then break up a pass on another third down and out. The coaches and teammates were high-fiving him both times as he came off the field. You can find the Falcons game at NFL-on-Fox.

By ray

December 14, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Yawn….

By brewdawg

December 14, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Alternate reality MVS2:

SO LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT:

• YOU GUYS PASS ON MATT RYAN, WHO STEVE YOUNG RECENTLY SAID WAS CERTAIN TO BE “AN ALL-TIME GREAT” IN SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

• WHO RONDE BARBER SAID “WOULD SET THE STANDARD FOR QBS IN THREE YEARS”

• WHO HAS BEEN CALLED BY NUMEROUS PEOPLE THE BEST ROOKIE QB EVER

AND THEN, AFTER DRAFTING DORSEY OVER RYAN, YOU TRADE UP FOR JOE FLACCO??!!

JOE FLACCO!!??

MATT RYAN= FUTURE HALL OF FAMER AND 72-MILLION DOLLAR BARGAIN

JOE FLACCO= 30 MILLION DOLLAR BUST AND THE NEXT RYAN LEAF

By ray

December 14, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

What a bogus call. Let’s see how VS2 manages to turn this into Matt Ryan’s fault, lol….

By Ryan Leaf

December 14, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

WTF did I ever do to you guys?

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

VS TAMPA….4-PICKS

HALL OF FAME BABY

By ray

December 14, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Leaf, you didn’t do anything. Except let Vick Supporter down all those years ago. He still has your poster, though. Hee hee!

Damn, one bad play after another. Tampa Bay’s defense has awakened. We have to protect Ryan better than that.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

POCKET’S GETTING HOT :)

——HILARIOUS———

2-MORE PICKS

1-FUMBLE

LEAF IS GIVING CHEESE AWAY LIKE HE IS SANTA :)

————-COACH KILLER————

72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST :)

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Hey Stendec Brooking just made another unassisted tackle on a 3rd down pass play to stop the Bucs drive. Turn the channel over to NFL-on-Fox and watch the game.

By stendec

December 14, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Falcon offense has NO fire today! Picked bad time for worst effort. Roddy then whoever the Hell that jerk is! Cannot drop certain TD tosses.

By ray

December 14, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Yeah, but Ryan will have to try oh so hard to match Vick for fumbles and picks.

I don’t think he can do it, though. LOL!

Ah yeah, there goes Turner. He goes for over 100 yards and we usually win. He’s over 100. That could be a great omen for us. Not for VS2….

By stendec

December 14, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Where was the damn interference flag? Pure bull(X). Guess refs want Bucs to win. Sorry mother(X)!

By ray

December 14, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Negative yardage by Norwood hurt on that drive. OH well, these things happen.

If we keep on and neither team scores another point, we win. However, I don’t want to get into a punt game with Tampa Bay. They are one of the best teams in the league at this. Yikes….

By morris

December 14, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

The rader fumble is going to cost us this game. No playoffs and we limp in 9-7. Oh well always next year. The old adage still applies “same ole falcons”.

By ray

December 14, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Great play by Foxworth. Has he been a gem of a pick-up or what? The defense holds yet again. I’m hoping Mularkey comes up with something that just freaks this defense out and breaks the game open for us.

By stendec

December 14, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Foxworth is the only secondary player worth a damn! Score a (X) TD offense.

By Stare Down at THE GEORGIA DOME!!!

December 14, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Wow, Coach Smith really stands up for his players!!!

By Headballcoach

December 14, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

As long as Falcons have a 3 point lead, they wont even TRY to score. They will run the clock. They play not to lose instead of to WIN… Will be their downfall.

By text

December 14, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

What’s the deal with falcon receivers’ inability to 1) catch the ball in the endzone 2) cross the plane with the ball.

If falcons lose, this will be 2 losses due to this problem.

By stendec

December 14, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

WIDE (X) LEFT! Run the clock out offense. Can you at least do that one damn thing right today?

By stendec's right

December 14, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Time for a new secondary, Birds fans :’(

By Headballcoach

December 14, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

HORRIBLE

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

WHAT’S THAT NOISE???

——-OH I KNOW———

IT’S THE FAT LADY SINGING

————ONCE AGAIN————-

72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST :)

By stendec

December 14, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Fire the (X) special teams coach now! Whoever the Hell he is. Ryan has stunk out the joint today! Reminds me of true Falcons. Guess those mother(X) are back!

By Special Ed Teams

December 14, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Great going, Wire!! You (X)’ing SUCK!!!

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

You know, I was just wondering if some of you “football fans” will actually be objective enough to even give Ryan part of the blame for killing the momentum going into the half. I mean, you all were quick to blame Roddy a few games ago for a dropped pass killing the team’s momentum. Just wondering if some of you can be objective enough to admit that Ryan’s not perfect…promising, yes…but not perfect. Believe it or not, as he’s played a major role in some of the wins, he’s also played a major role in some of the losses.

By tex

December 14, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Ryan did enough to win this game. Not his fault Rader can’t get the ball into the endzone.

Not sure how they even overruled it since no view conclusively showed the ball coming out on the 1 yard line.

By old school

December 14, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Ryan has had a bad game, he’s still learning. But is it his fault that Rader fumbled his touchdown pass? or the bucs blocked the punt? However, Ryan has struggled today but tampa’s D has played pretty well.

By Headballcoach

December 14, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

WAY TO GO….LEAVE IT UP TO A F*** COIN TOSS

By stendec

December 14, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

If the Falcons lose in overtime they (X) deserve it! Damn worthless oxygen wastes.

By Here since'67

December 14, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

you vicks guys just don’t get it. Ryan hasn’t looked good today but he’s part of the team. Win as a team lose as a team. Vick is gone. this is the atlanta team. we want them to do well; just like when vick was here we wanted them to do well; nobody make vick throw away his opportunity; if he gets back into the league good for him; WHY DO YOU VICK GUYS WANT THE FALCONS TO LOSE?

By tex

December 14, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

Bad call by Smitty to waste that final possession before overtime. At least try to get into FG range!

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Ryan did enough to win this game? Yeah, there was that one potential TD pass but I’d say he’s done far more to lose it than win it. Have you forgotten about the 2 picks? We’re talking one potential TD vs. 2 picks & a fumble (that he did happen to recover).

By old school

December 14, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Even with the two picks, the score should be 17-10, Falcons win. Yeah, I’d say that’s enough.

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

VS TAMPA…..

0-TDS

4-PICKS

NOT LEAF FAULT AT ALL

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

ANOTHER FUMBLE

———SO THAT’S——-

2-PICKS

2-FUMBLES

NO IT’S NOT HIS FAULT

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Make that 2 picks & 2 fumbles. I like Ryan too, I’m just objective enough to admit that he’s done more to give this game away than to win it. If we pull it out (hopefully we will), it’ll definitely be a team effort (mostly Michael Turner).

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

BAILED OUT BY TURNER & ABRAHAM AGAIN

By old school

December 14, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Ryan has not has a good game, but though some people hate to admit it, that’s actually a rarity for him. He’s still a rookie you know.

By stendec

December 14, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU JASON ELAM!

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

**FALCONS WIN IN OT!

It’s all Brooking’s fault

Signed,

STENDEC

By tex

December 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

woohoo!!!

Not Matty’s best game, but Falcons overcame the dropped td, great win!

By N2Pain

December 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Chan Gailey is alive and well coaching for the Falcons. Great win team, you overcame pitiful play-calling all day. We’re outcoached every week but you guys are great!!

By ray

December 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

YEEEEEAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH BABYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!

THAT’S WHAT’S UP!!!

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

Wow, so 2 picks & 2 fumbles is more to win than to give it away? I’ll tell you what, that “enough” won’t be “enough” to carry us into the playoffs. 2 picks & 2 fumbles is “enough”? Wow, you might want to check your standards. Hilarious, a QB doing “enough” to win (especially by your standards) to always equate to a win. Here’s to Michael Turner for saving the day. What a TEAM win. Game ball to Michael Turner!!!

By ilikefootball

December 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

Why did the vick supporters want Atlanta to lose this game?

As long as we don’t be stupid in the next couple games— we should be in the playoffs.

By Navigator

December 14, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Two things are pretty obvious by now, the offensive coordinator is average at best. Hopefully, the Falcons will rectify this in the future. Another is decision making at the end of the game. The Falcons get down to the 13 yard line in overtime, and that’s an automatic kick. Instead Smith tries another play for a 10 yard penalty, but luckily they get most of back on the next play. There was no reason to run any play after the they got to the 13. Smith has got to get some balls, and stop being so predictable during the game, and most important, when you are in position to win, win it!!!

By gtsteve03

December 14, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

I don’t even know why these idiots are still spouting off about Ron Mexico.

Here’s some historical stats for Ron vs TB:

2006: 1 TD, 2 INTs, 5 sacks 2005: 4 TDs, 0 INTs, 6 sacks 2004: 1 TD, 3 INTs, 10 sacks 2003: 2 TDs, 0 INTs, 0 sacks 2002: 1 TD, 1 INT, 4 sacks

So in Mexico’s 10 games, he totaled up 9 TDs, 6 INTs and 25 sacks. Hardly worthy numbers.

We need to forget about that convict and look ahead to our bright future with Matt Ryan.

By tex

December 14, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Matty did enough to win the game, which should have ended 17-10 in regulation.

The Vick-lovers are the biggest bunch of losers to ever pollute the internet, whining and crying that their beloved master, who throws family pets into dogpits, and spends all of his $$ so he can avoid paying his creditors, was still leading this team.

What a bunch of pathetic losers!

By roan st

December 14, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

This win guaranteed the falcons a winning season. Even if we lose to minnesota we should beat the rams so the worst we probably could do would be 10-6. Hopefully that will be good enough to get us into the playoffs. We need to pull against these teams dowm the stretch- dallas, washington, philly, minnesota, chicago, tampa. Those are the most likely teams vying for wild card spots.

By Sweet

December 14, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Vic Supporter 2: Now leave those studs alone and get ready for Sweet. I’ll be hot and ready for you when you come over. Don’t take it out on the fans, because Mikey won’t write you. Ta Ta.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

WILD CARD

TAMPA (TIE BREAKER)

DALLAS (TIE BREAKER)

PHILLY (TIE BREAKER)

By Da Real Real

December 14, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

What a good feeling it is to be in Atlanta sport wise so far this year. You got the big win for the Hawks last night and a big win from the Falcons. Feels good to be a fan of our Atlanta teams right now.

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

No Michael Turner = NO PLAYOFFS. Matt Ryan = Draft Pick

By here since'67

December 14, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Again, i have to ask: why do the vick guys want the falcons to lose? Vick doesn’t have anyone to blame but himself; when he was here he was our guy; VICK IS THE REASON VICK IS NOT HERE! What’s up with the vick guys?

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

A TEAM WITHOUT THEIR STARTING QB

—————-AND—————

THE BEST YOU CAN DO IS 13-10 IN O/T?

GOOD LUCK WITH THAT

By Historian

December 14, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Now let’s see if the Falcons can break a trend of the all of the coaches, players of the past. This team has a winning season, and if they don’t stumble next year the first back to back winning season is team history. I read what one individual says about Ryan, but understand, your favorite QB and his team did not have a winning season two years in row. You can continue to spew hate, but this team is a lot like the Braves of the early 90’s, they’re about to go on a run. You enjoy the ride or miss everything.

By STFU

December 14, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Yes, Vick’s Jock Supporter, the best we can do is WIN!!!

Now, get a life.

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Welikebaseball2 wrote: “Wow, so 2 picks & 2 fumbles is more to win than to give it away?” Wow, you must really hate Ryan to start counting “fumbles” that weren’t turnovers. Matty Ice did have a couple of nice runs on that last drive in OT. Not to mention, if the refs don’t overturn the Radar receiving TD Matty Ice had already won the game. Not bad for a rookie playing against one of the better defenses in the league. I guess we could bring up the fact that he forgot to floss this morning before the game.

By ray

December 14, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Wow, what a game! To win like that, in the style of our opponent, a tough grind-it-out game…speaks volumes of where this franchise is headed.

Matt Ryan did not have a very good game, but we won anyway. And he did make some good plays on the ground despite the fumbles. I like that right after the fumble, he ran again, and got the first down. That’s fortitude, my fellow Falcon fans. He doesn’t hang his head, he doesn’t pull his teammates down with his brooding. He goes right back out there and makes plays. And had Jason Rader not had his unfortunate fumble, his stat line would’ve looked better, and the game wouldn’t have been as close. Having said that, I am not going to bash on Rader. Fumbles happen. Besides, we don’t fumble nearly as much as we used to around here….AHEM…

AND LIKE IT OR NOT, MATT RYAN WILL ONLY GET BETTER. IF YOU DON’T LIKE HIM, I SUGGEST YOU NOT WATCH FALCON GAMES IN THE FUTURE. BECAUSE HE IS THE FUTURE.

Michael Turner had a fabulous game against one of the NFL’s toughest defenses. He came through the entire game, not just in one quarter or another. I loved Warrick Dunn when he was here. I’m pleased as punch with Turner, though.

John Abraham seems to get a sack at all the right times. Today was no exception. What an incredible pair of sacks he had in the 4th quarter, and in overtime. All I can say is WOW.

The fact that we can have that many turnovers against one of the league’s best defenses and still win is a profound statement. That is a testament to just how good this TEAM is. The Falcons have exceeded all expectations, even from those of its most ardent fans. You can’t ask for better.

We’re 9-5. Life is good!

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

tex: Okay, I’m going to assume that the Vick-lovers rant was for someone else…seeing as I didn’t mention his name.

As for the first part of your post…

I know what, why don’t we add an “enough to win” column to stat records? “Should’ve ended 17-10 in regulation”..should’ve…should’ve…should’ve.

I’ve got one, it shouldn’t have even been that close. It “should’ve” been at least 10-0 going into the second half. Notice how Ryan’s pick set up the Bucs only score before half?

Turner & Abraham did enough to win. It’s the sign of a good team. The QB does enough give it away & his teammates pick him up. There were games earlier in the season in which the defense did everything to give it away & Ryan did his part to pick them up. Can you at least be objective enough to admit that he had a bad game today & wasn’t much of a factor in the win?

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

crabapplejoe: You know, I just love it when people butt into conversations without a clue of context. I was responding to tex’s assertion than Ryan “did enough to win.” It wasn’t being overly critical, it was simply a response to tex’s opinion that a QB with 2 fumbles & 2 picks did enough to win. I’d say the TEAM did enough to win. I know though, you’ve got to protect your Matty Ice!

By here since'67

December 14, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

@welikebaseball2; why is it that Ryan didn’t help win this game? yeah he butchered the throw before the half; but Tampa is a killer on defense; he’s part of the team; the team won; he made some plays; as a lot of guys did today; teams win; teams lose; today it was a team win; I’m not sure why you want to single out one of the team members and find fault with him; I’d guess that no one in the locker room is finding fault with him AND CAN ANYONE EXPLAIN TO ME WHY THE VICK GUYS WANT THE FALCONS TO LOSE?

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Sorry Dude, didn’t know this was a private forum between you and Tex. Thought it was a Falcon’s forum. When people say stupid things about my QB then I will comment whether or not the stupid remark was directed at me. Got it. Good

By Great Falconi

December 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

here since’67,

I can explain it to you:

The fans posting here as “Vick supporters” are not Falcon fans. They just want to rip the team. It’s been the same thing all season. They’re looking to stir stuff up. Just ignore ‘em.

By ray

December 14, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter 2,

I thought you said we had no chance against Tampa? All you have to say is that all we managed was a 13-10 win? I’d say we already had our good luck. We won. So tell me…how many recipes are there for crow? By now, there must be about 9 of them. You know, for each win this year….bon appetit! Hey, why don’t you predict another loss for us just for good luck? So far your predictions have been the proverbial rabbit’s foot to 9 wins!

Vick Supporter,

You’re absolutely right: No Mike Turner, no playoffs. I love our star running back. So does everybody else.

MIKE TURNER= NO NEED FOR VICK…and far fewer fumbles…

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 14, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Today was one of the few times this year Matt Ryan has gone up against a good pass defense, and he looked like a rookie. Much like Vick, in his first year as a starter the Bucs have had Ryan’s number. That doesn’t mean he’s a bad player. He still obviously has a bright future ahead of him, and he had his moments in this game too. This game should, however, put a stop to the ridiculous Ryan for MVP, Ryan for Pro Bowl, Ryan for greatest rookie ever talk. It’s pretty clear that the Falcons are fully capable of beating good teams regardless of whether or not Ryan plays well. The Falcons have been carried by their running game and coaching staff. Just like Harry Douglas, Curtis Lofton, Kroy Biermann, etc., Ryan is a talented and promising rookie who has been put in a position to succeed by an excellent coaching staff. That’s it. Not a savior, not someone who revolutionizes the QB position.

I’m a Vick fan who doesn’t take any particular pleasure in seeing the Falcons lose, like some of the other Vick fans here. I certainly don’t hate Matt Ryan either. Not all of us Vick fans say dumb sh-t like Matt Ryan’s a bust and what not. The only reason I come post on here is to respond to you clowns who blamed Vick for every Falcons loss when he was here but go out of your way to absolve Ryan of any blame whatsoever when he plays poorly. Ryan is no doubt a good player, but his impact has been blown way out of proportion by most of y’all. The Falcons won today in spite of Ryan’s play, the same way they lost all kinds of games from 2002-2006 in spite of Vick’s play. The QB is only one player, and it takes an entire team and coaching staff to win games.

By boxer99

December 14, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Another bad prediction by convick supporter, your a joke you need to take your jumbo lips off convicks c** you loser. Falcons win thats all that matters you nincumpoop. Again you and convick shouild be put in a firing line!

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop: Well-said…well-said.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

ATTENTION

I HOPE YOU GUYS ARE WATCHING WHAT MINNESOTA IS DOING TO ARIZONA & KURT WARNER’S HIGH POWER OFFENSE…

MINNESOTA 21

ARIZONA 0

THAT WILLIAMS WALL IS A MUTHA….

——-AND ADD THAT WITH————

ADRIAN PETERSON…..LETS JUST SAY

BETTER DO BETTER THAN TODAY

By tex

December 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Never said the team didn’t do enough to win. Only an angry vicklover would infer such.

The team, including Matty, did enough to win. Should have been over 17-10 in regulation.

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

here since ‘67: I was saying that Ryan did more to give the game away than he did to win it. Wow, am I not allowed to point out Ryan’s faults…or do you think he has no faults? They ought to put you & crabapplejoe on the offensive line.

crabapplejoe: Actually you’re right, this is a public forum & you’ve got every right to respond to any post. Just get a clue as to the context of the original posts next time. I know, that would be too close to tact, intelligence, & objectivity…

By cb

December 14, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Great games turned in by Turner and Abraham! Ryan had a pedestrian game. The two interceptions were both on him. The flip side of his performance is that he had a sure touchdown fumbled away. I would say that to his credit that he showed poise on the winning drive (tucking the ball in and running twice when we needed to move the chains). With that said this game was won by Turner, Abraham, and Foxworth. Other than the missed assignment on the blocked punt Wire played an effective game as well as Lofton in the middle. Babineaux was also effective. Good showing by the offensive line as well. The defense was effective when it needed to be but upgrades will be greatly needed in the offseason. Way to get a win when we needed one. We get a one-dimensional attack in Minnesota next week (I expect good games by Foxworth, Coleman and Houston (he can play bump and run against Minnesota’s wideouts). Also Turner needs to be considered for MVP. GO FALCONS!!!

By birdwatcher

December 14, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Even with his lackluster performance, Ryan is a better leader than Vick was.

The Falcons have a great opportunity to finish the season 11-5. Its a long season and there have been games where the defense carried us, the offense carried us, the running game, the passing game, etc.

Go Falcons!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

LEAF’S QB RATINGS

VS TAMPA-1……..29

VS CAROLINA…..60

VS PHILLY……68

VS TAMPA-2……57

———TODAY’S GAME———-

0-TDS

2-PICKS

QB RATING….57

——-TAMPA FOR THE YEAR———

0-TDS

4-PICKS

QB RATING……43.5

HALL OF FAME NUMBERS BABY :)

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

tex: Hilarious. I knew it was just a matter of time before you tagged me a “Vick lover.” That’s funny…could you point to my post that mentioned him?

Oh!!!! I get it: Criticizer of Ryan=Lover of VIck. Right?

Your biases/obsession with the former QB obviously won’t allow you to speak on or see football objectively. Consider this exchange done. Carry on with your ignorance/fear/bitterness…

By Great Falconi

December 14, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

welikebaseball2,

Some people get p** off about the constant ripping of the team by people calling themselves “Vick supporters.” That makes those people go the other way: “Ryan’s the best thing since sliced bread.”

The truth is that Matt Ryan made some bad throws today. He fumbled a ball that the Falcons were lucky to recover. Despite his mistakes, his team won. Vick won a game or two like this in his time in Atlanta. Hell, Chris Chandler won a game or two like this. It happens. As we all know, in order to be 9-5 you need a good team effort. The much-maligned defense showed up big today. Coupled with Michael Turner’s dominant performance in the second half and OT, the team managed to overcome its errors and get the W.

Any person that actually cheers for the Falcons (whether a Vick fan, a Ryan fan, or both) and isn’t concerned with the pursuit of perfection at this point of the season will take that W any damn day of the week.

By Vick Supporter 2

December 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Another week, wrong again :) I so smart. 11-5 rookie starter. I startinn to so even mo dumb

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

PLAYOFF UPDATE

MINNESOTA…..28

ARIZONA …..0

——AGAINST THE #4 OFFENSE IN NFL——-

By birdwatcher

December 14, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Mike Vick career passer rating - 75.75.

Matt Ryan after only 13 games - 92.0

By vs 2

December 14, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

What I want for Xmas

1. How could anyone else grab the No. 1 spot but Michael Vick? For some incredible reason, his autographed jersey hasn’t felt the effects of the economy: It’s only seen a 50 percent drop from $639 to $306. Meanwhile, you can bid on the exact same signed jersey on eBay for $60 plus shipping. The question remains: Who would buy Vick’s Falcons jersey right now? Is there a single person you can think of other than someone who’s married to a die-hard PETA member and wants to spur a divorce? Beyond that, would this even make for a funny joke gift? Wouldn’t it lead to an awkward silence at any family gift-opening gathering? It’s because of these questions that I’m nominating Vick’s $306 signed Falcons jersey as the single most depressing NFL-related gift for 2008.

By ray

December 14, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

welikebaseball2,

Just how far do you want to go with objectivity?

I’ll admit readily that Ryan did not have a good game. I’ll also say that he got a key first down by running the ball. Turner definitely had a hell of a game. But he only scored one touchdown. Was that enough to win the game, if you’re thinking purely objectively? Abraham was brilliant and timely on defense. How many touchdowns did he score?

Yeah, I know that’s splitting hairs…but we can do that all day with any aspect of the game.

You’re right though: our team is good enough to where other guys could step up and pick up the slack. Certainly a mark of a good team. It’s about time we had one.

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Great Falconi: Respect to you. I agree. Trust me, I’m celebrating the W. I’ll take a division/conference win anyway it comes!

By Navigator

December 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

People tell me what’s wrong this Vic Supporter 2. Is he retarded, drop out, whitey hater or what. Less we forget, Vic didn’t even start his first year. He had two good seasons as QB, 3 losing season in 5. Well I guess Vic Supper 2 get’s a kick out of the time payed to his blogs. Vic is going to get another chance to play wide receiver, so I hope he does well when he comes back. It’s too bad all the things happened the way they did. Matt Schaub is lighting it up at Houston (after injury), beat Tennessee today. I don’t hold ill feelings toward any of the previous Falcons, and hope all do well elsewhere.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 14, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

“Mike Vick career passer rating - 75.75.

Matt Ryan after only 13 games - 92.0”

Talking about Vick while conveniently forgetting the impact he has on the running game is like talking about Reggie Bush without mentioning his pass receiving and kick returning skills. You gotta be biased as hell to post some sh-t like that. Rush yards and rush TDs count just as much as pass yards and pass TDs do on the field, but not in QB rating calculations.

By welikebaseball2

December 14, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

ray: Your point’s well made too. I was just saying that Ryan more of a part in potentially giving the game away than he did in winning it. Trust me, if Turner had 2 fumbles to go with his lone touchdown, I’d be saying the same thing about him. Ryan’s a gritty rookie & has a bright future ahead of him. I, like you, must say though that it’s a relief to have a pretty well balanced team. Well, the defense could use some help…but I’ll take it!

By VICK SUPPORTER 3....4.....5..????

December 14, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

WAY TO GO OUT AND GET A WIN TODAY FALCONS!!! No Matt Ryan didn’t have a great game today, but how many QBs over the last few years have managed to have a great day against the Bucs? I’m a long time Falcon fan, which meant I was also a “Vick Supporter” whatever that means. It doesn’t take much to come on an online blog and name yourself Vick Supporter..anybody can do that. But I tell you this…..It takes an immature person to continue to come on here week in and week out and continue to use that name and make a fool of him or herself.

At this point I figure you’re just doing it for the kicks because we all keep talking about it. Heck, I don’t know if you really have Ryan or not….honestly if you’re a fan of the team I don’t know what you can hate about the guy - I think you’ll have to explain that to me and all of us because the guy hasn’t done anything to NOT like him.

I’m just happy to see the team playing like A TEAM. It feels really good to see that this team managed to put together a WINNING season. If you have any complaints about that after what expectations were set for this season I’d say you’re crazy. At this point if the Falcons somehow did not make the playoffs I in no way will feel that this season was a let down. We’ve been competing with some really good football teams and have had a good shot at finishing in 1st in this division as well as a good chance in getting into the playoffs. So I’m proud to say that I’m a fan of this team…oh yeah and I’m a “Vick Supporter”

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

UPDATE

MINNESOTA …………….28

ARIZONA………..0

TAVARIS JACKSON 3-TDS

————PLUS—————-

ADRIAN PETERSON

————PLUS——————

WILLIAMS WALL

By Najeh knows more than Steve Young

December 14, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Young (amongst almost universally every professional writer) says Ryan is the best Rookie he has seen in 20 years and destined for multiple all-pro. Najeh is smart. Almost smart enough to be MV7 next financial adviser - just missed the cut.

By Here since'67

December 14, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

THAT’S THE POINT: VICK IS YESTERDAY’S NEWS; WE CAN’T WAIT FOR HIM TO COME BACK AND SUCCEED OR NOT; RYAN HASN’T DONE ANYTHING TO VICK; NOBODY IN THE FALCON’S ORGANIZATION HAS DONE ANYTHING TO VICK; VICK DID HIMSELF IN ALL BY HIMSELF

SO CAN SOMEONE EXPLAIN TO ME WHY THE VICK GUYS WANT THE FALCONS TO LOSE?

By Vick Supporter 2

December 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Further Update:

The sum of all the numbers i my previous post is double my IQ

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

“Young (amongst almost universally every professional writer) says Ryan is the best Rookie he has seen in 20 years and destined for multiple all-pro. Najeh is smart. Almost smart enough to be MV7 next financial adviser - just missed the cut.”

So if I understand you correctly, what “universally every professional writer” says must be true?

Why don’t you go back to April 2006, when the Texans drafted Mario Williams ahead of Vince Young, and see what these “professional writers” said then?

Let it be known for the record once again that at no point have I ever said Ryan is a bust or a bad player. Unlike most of y’all though, I don’t have his sticky white fluid covering my eyes, so I’m able to see a little more objectively.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

WATCH THE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR TONIGHT

—————JOE FLACCO—————

30-MILLION DOLLAR BARGAIN

………..ANYWAY…………

MINNESOTA IS DESTROYING THE #4 OFFENSIVE TEAM ON NATIONAL TELEVISION………

———-NO HAPPY CHRISTMAS IN ATL——-

IT’S HARD ENOUGH STOPPING ADRIAN PETERSON AND NOW………

THAT TAVARIS JACKSON WITH 3-TDS IN THE FIRST HALF……..

DON’T YOU HATE THOSE RUNNING QBS :)

By Great Falconi

December 14, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Najeh,

Referring to people who are a little too given to hyperbole over Matt Ryan as having taken a money shot on their faces is pathetic. You’re better than that, man. They’re no different than the people that thought Vick could do no wrong.

You surely understand that some fans are smarter (or more objective) than others. How can you sit here and waste your time trying to argue a point that is obvious to most rational people?

Not that my opinion means s**, of course.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

OH CAROLINA, CAROLINA, CAROLINA

——GOD’S TEAM IS LOOKING GOOD———

2008 NFC CHAMPIONS

By T to the D

December 14, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN…

(UPI) Levinsworth, KS.-

Bio-Hazmat teams have been ordered to the ferderal prison persuant to White House directives, a confidential source has confirmed.

Belief is the response is to battle the “Ron Mexico HerpesY2K” outbreak that follows an Atlanta Falcons victory.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

ADRIAN PETERSON WATCH

153-RUSHING YARDS AND JUST IN 3RD QTR……..

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

2004 AND COUNTING

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 14, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

“You surely understand that some fans are smarter (or more objective) than others. How can you sit here and waste your time trying to argue a point that is obvious to most rational people?”

I think you are underestimating how many seemingly rational people put a lot of stock in what mainstream media types say. There are a lot of people like that who think that anything Steve Young or Mike Golic or Troy Aikman or whoever says on air has to be true just because they played football once.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

MINNESOTA UPDATE

TAVARIS JACKSON……….4-TDS

ADRIAN PETERSON………160 YARDS

WILLIAMS WALL….1-OFFENSIVE TD

By Midaz

December 14, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

I wish this blog could be all about the fact that OUR TEAM is 9-5. Unfortunately it is infested with vermin who were never Falcons fans.

So for all you ‘Vick’ guys, here is an oldie but a goodie and exactly what I think of you.

You swine. You vulgar little maggot. Don’t you know that you are pathetic? You worthless bag of filth. As we say in Texas, I’ll bet you couldn’t pour p** out of a boot with instructions on the heel. You are a canker. A sore that won’t go away. I would rather kiss a lawyer than be seen with you.

You are a fiend and a coward, and you have bad breath. You are degenerate, noxious and depraved. I feel debased just for knowing you exist. I despise everything about you. You are a bloody nardless newbie twit protohominid chromosomally aberrant caricature of a coprophagic cloacal parasitic pond scum and I wish you would go away.

You’re a putrescence mass, a walking vomit. You are a spineless little worm deserving nothing but the profoundest contempt. You are a jerk, a cad, a weasel. Your life is a monument to stupidity. You are a stench, a revulsion, a big suck on a sour lemon.

You are a bleating fool, a curdled staggering mutant dwarf smeared richly with the effluvia and offal accompanying your alleged birth into this world. An insensate, blinking calf, meaningful to nobody, abandoned by the puke-drooling, giggling beasts who sired you and then killed themselves in recognition of what they had done.

I will never get over the embarrassment of belonging to the same species as you. You are a monster, an ogre, a malformity. I barf at the very thought of you. You have all the appeal of a paper cut. Lepers avoid you. You are vile, worthless, less than nothing. You are a weed, a fungus, the dregs of this earth. And did I mention you smell?

If you aren’t an idiot, you made a world-class effort at simulating one. Try to edit your writing of unnecessary material before attempting to impress us with your insight. The evidence that you are a nincompoop will still be available to readers, but they will be able to access it more rapidly.

You snail-skulled little rabbit. Would that a hawk pick you up, drive its beak into your brain, and upon finding it rancid set you loose to fly briefly before spattering the ocean rocks with the frothy pink shame of your ignoble blood. May you choke on the queasy, convulsing nausea of your own trite, foolish beliefs.

You are weary, stale, flat and unprofitable. You are grimy, squalid, nasty and profane. You are foul and disgusting. You’re a fool, an ignoramus. Monkeys look down on you. Even sheep won’t have sex with you. You are unreservedly pathetic, starved for attention, and lost in a land that reality forgot.

And what meaning do you expect your delusionally self-important statements of unknowing, inexperienced opinion to have with us? What fantasy do you hold that you would believe that your tiny-fisted tantrums would have more weight than that of a leprous desert rat, spinning rabidly in a circle, waiting for the bite of the snake?

You are a waste of flesh. You have no rhythm. You are ridiculous and obnoxious. You are the moral equivalent of a leech. You are a living emptiness, a meaningless void. You are sour and senile. You are a disease, you puerile one-handed slack-jawed drooling meatslapper.

On a good day you’re a half-wit. You remind me of drool. You are deficient in all that lends character. You have the personality of wallpaper. You are dank and filthy. You are asinine and benighted. You are the source of all unpleasantness. You spread misery and sorrow wherever you go.

I cannot believe how incredibly stupid you are. I mean rock-hard stupid. Dehydrated-rock-hard stupid. Stupid so stupid that it goes way beyond the stupid we know into a whole different dimension of stupid. You are trans-stupid stupid. Meta-stupid. Stupid collapsed on itself so far that even the neutrons have collapsed. Stupid gotten so dense that no intellect can escape. Singularity stupid. Blazing hot mid-day sun on Mercury stupid. You emit more stupid in one second than our entire galaxy emits in a year. Quasar stupid. Your writing has to be a troll. Nothing in our universe can really be this stupid. Perhaps this is some primordial fragment from the original big bang of stupid. Some pure essence of a stupid so uncontaminated by anything else as to be beyond the laws of physics that we know. I’m sorry. I can’t go on. This is an epiphany of stupid for me. After this, you may not hear from me again for a while. I don’t have enough strength left to deride your ignorant questions and half baked comments about unimportant trivia, or any of the rest of this drivel. Duh.

The only thing worse than your logic is your manners. I have snipped away most of what you wrote, because, well… it didn’t really say anything. Your attempt at constructing a creative flame was pitiful. I mean, really, stringing together a bunch of insults among a load of babbling was hardly effective… Maybe later in life, after you have learned to read, write, spell, and count, you will have more success. True, these are rudimentary skills that many of us “normal” people take for granted that everyone has an easy time of mastering. But we sometimes forget that there are “challenged” persons in this world who find these things more difficult. If I had known, that this was your case then I would have never read your post. It just wouldn’t have been “right”. Sort of like parking in a handicap space. I wish you the best of luck in the emotional, and social struggles that seem to be placing such a demand on you.

P.S.: You are hypocritical, greedy, violent, malevolent, vengeful, cowardly, deadly, mendacious, meretricious, loathsome, despicable, belligerent, opportunistic, barratrous, contemptible, criminal, fascistic, bigoted, racist, sexist, avaricious, tasteless, idiotic, brain-damaged, imbecilic, insane, arrogant, deceitful, demented, lame, self-righteous, Byzantine, conspiratorial, satanic, fraudulent, libelous, bilious, splenetic, spastic, ignorant, clueless, illegitimate, harmful, destructive, dumb, evasive, double-talking, devious, revisionist, narrow, manipulative, paternalistic, fundamentalist, dogmatic, idolatrous, unethical, cultic, diseased, suppressive, controlling, restrictive, malignant, deceptive, dim, crazy, weird, dystopic, stifling, uncaring, plantigrade, grim, unsympathetic, jargon-spouting, censorious, secretive, aggressive, mind-numbing, abrasive, poisonous, flagrant, self-destructive, abusive, socially-retarded, puerile, clueless, and generally Not Good.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

MINNESOTA UPDATE

AND IF YOU THOUGHT IT COULDN’T GET ANY MORE DOMINATING……….

THE DEFENSE HAS ABOUT 10-SACKS TODAY AGAINST THE 4TH OFFENSIVE TEAM IN THE NFL……….

By ShawnB

December 14, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

And I thought there were some idiots on the Braves blog, they’re looking like genius’ after looking over this one. Think I’ll move along before I get blamed for Mike Vick being a moron who blew a good thing ALL BY HIMSELF. And you proclaimed Vick supporters, I wish the man a happy productive future, nothing but good things, but I don’t think I’m gonna act like an ignorant fool and blame others for him ruining his life

By Vick Supporter 2

December 14, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Flacco Rookie of the Year - 3 Picks! Way to go. Stay tuned for more insight. Don’t worry I have moved on to fantasizing (think pony ride) on Jackson

By old school

December 14, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

The question is to welikebaseball.., why are you making such a big deal about today’s game? The kid is still a rookie, and check his stats for the year and then you might understand why NFL players, coaches, and personnel guys are calling Ryan one of the best rookie QBs ever. Hell, if he threw for 300 yards and 4 touchdowns against a angry Bucs’ D then I would put him in the Pro-Bowl. —The kid has done a fantastic job, and if you’re bothered that some fans are over-zealous about him, then you probably need some perspective about what Falcons fans have endured for a while. The kid is a class-act and will only get better in the years to come. In spite of today, YES, its great to be a falcons fan and to have a solid franchise QB that will eventually lead us to a title.

By Insite

December 14, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

To everyone who doesn’t know welikebaseball2…she does not know what she says…SHE is obviously a complete idiot…she sleeps with DOL

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop wrote: “not someone who revolutionizes the QB position.”

We ain’t looking for someone to revolutionize the QB position. Been there, done that…a disaster. We’re looking for someone who plays like the last 40 quaterbacks that won the SuperBowl. They look and play kinda like Brady, Eli, Peyton…..and Matty Ice!

By MWC

December 14, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

DavenPOOP has no idea what she is talking about. She can’t read.

By Granddawg

December 14, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

My God! “This is a tough world. It’s even tougher when you are stupid”…John Wayne

By Boo Boo

December 14, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

9 - 5

By Boo Boo

December 14, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

One more step in the process gained:

A winning season

By morris

December 14, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Davenpoop, you’re just a little punk who doesn’t have the guts to come out say you’re in love with vick and HATE ryan just because he is white. At least the two jock sniffers are who they are. I have more respect for even idiots who at least don’t hide in the weeds like a little b***. You been coming on here for a long time dropping you’re little racist innuendo’s. Show some nads and just join up with the two jock sniffers because we all know you feel the same way they do. At least they have some guts you unick coward.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 14, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Morris, there is nobody of my race in the NFL. I have no racial connection with any NFL player. Show me where I mentioned any “racist innuendos”.

You know what is cowardly? Sitting in your mom’s basement hurling insults at people on an internet message board, like you are doing. Go f-ck yourself.

By superbarrio

December 14, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Compare this blog to O’brien’s Braves blog. O’brien has a wide breath of knowledge and experience in his field. He also has a genuine interest in his job, craft. Therefore, he challenges idiot posters, and if he has to, he has the idiot comments removed. He takes pride in his work.

However, here, Ledbetter only pleads with morons like the Vick lover crowd. No balls, no command, no nothing. Why is this? It’s because he’s an affirmative action hire. Therefore, he was hired only because he can check a box on the application. He’s obviously in over his head.

By richbrave

December 14, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

D. ORLANDO:

superbarrio has called you out. Waiting for your response. BTW great win for the birds and fantastic season.

I’m a REDSKINS fan and the wheels have come off the bus. Obviously the playas’ are buying what SMITH is selling and PORTIS is not.

Hey, VS2 maybe we need to trade a boatload of draft picks for home-boy MV7. MeANGELO is lookin’ O.K. in burgundy and gold. I think he enjoys playin’ in from of the home-folks. Of course, he’s on a make good contract, so he’s got his nose to the grind-stone. So far.

By Eric C.

December 14, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Great win today…but the Falcons must win out to have a shot at the playoffs.

Now, what happens if the Falcons, Bucs, and Cowboys all finish at 11-5. I suppose the Cowboys get with their head-to-head win against the Bucs…but who would go between the Falcons and Bucs?

By Boo Boo

December 15, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this

Eric,

If they would all have finished 11-5, Tampa Bay would have the same 3-3 Division record, the same 8-4 Conference record, as well as an identical 10-4 common opponent record, as would the Falcons. The strength of victory could be the deciding factor. However, both the Falcons and the Bucs beat the exact same teams, except for each beating one non-common opponent. The Falcons would have beaten the Rams (if 11-5), with the Bucs having beaten the Seahawks. That means Tampa gets the nod over Atlanta, unless St. Louis wins next week against San Francisco AND Seattle loses its last two games (to the Jets and Arizona). That, too, could end up being a push (if both Sea. and St. L. end up 3-13), which means it then goes to strength of schedule; and that would mean (because the Cowboys would have finished 11-5) Tampa would have played (all else equal) the Cowboys (11-5), while the Falcons played the lesser record Eagles. The Cowboys and the Bucs go to the playoffs, with the Cowboys the home team.

The only chance the Falcons have is for: A) have San Diego beat the Bucs, so they finish 10-6, with the Falcons 11-5. B) Either Philly or Baltimore (or both) to beat the Cowboys; Or C) Carolina has to lose its last two games (within the realm of possibility), so that three teams finish 11-5 in the NFC South, Atlanta would beat out Carolina, due to them having a worse Conference record, and become the last wildcard team, with Tampa Bay the Division winner.

Basically, its not up to the Falcons. They have to win out AND they need someone else to take down those competing with the Falcons for the last playoff spot.

CRUNCH TIME DECEMBER NUMBERS

Carolina ….. 2-0 Chicago ….. 2-0 Minnesota ….. 2-0 Philly ….. 1-0 (pending MNF) Atlanta ….. 1-1 Cowboys ….. 1-1 Giants ….. 0-2 Tampa ….. 0-2 Arizona ….. 1-1

By Eric C.

December 15, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

Boo Boo,

Thank you very much for the explanation! Sheesh…sure would have been nice to see the Cowboys lose to the Giants. It would be bad enough to miss the playoffs going 10-6…but missing at 11-5 would be brutal!

By OHHHH!

December 15, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this

http://www.bradenton.com/sports/story/1095561.html Having a strong running game helps. So does playing in an offense that is identical to the one Ryan played in at Boston College. Same blocking schemes. Same pass protection terminology. Pure genius on the part of offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey if you ask me.

Ryan SHOULD be playing better than other rookie QBs since he didn’t have to learn a whole new playbook! Lets hope against the Vikings Michael Turner can take the pressure off because if we can’t get 100 yards outta him, then you might as well call it in right now.

By School Marm

December 15, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

Morris darling, when you call someone a “unick” don’t you instead mean a e-u-n-u-c-h? The latter is a castrated man; only you know what the former is.

By Eric C.

December 15, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

Time for another blog?

By welikebaseball2

December 15, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

old school: You obviously missed my point…which was that a lot of you “Falcons fans” tend to give Ryan ALL the credit for the wins & LITTLE TO NO blame in the losses. If you’re truly glad we have a TEAM then why do you only celebrate the QB? You guys are protecting him like he’s some untouchable god. I give him props when he’s on & I criticize him when he’s off. Another thing, I’m Atlanta born & raised so don’t get it confused…I know what it’s like to suffer as a Falcons fan & I’m thrilled to be talking playoffs again!

Insite: LOL. You feel like a man now? I take it you don’t have the basic level of comprehension or vocabulary to address the issues I raised without name-calling. LOL. I won’t even stoop to your level of ignorance. LOL. Any intelligent football-related replies?