Falcons

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 22, 2008 2:31 AM | Link to this

“The Falcons own the building. First, the 1998 Falcons came here and earned a trip to the Super Bowl. Ten years and four coaches later - Wade Phillips, Jim Mora, Bobby Petrino and Emmitt Thomas - they scooped up four fumbles and earn an improbable playoff berth.”

And let’s not forget this…

By Mike S

December 22, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this

Najeh, not that I don’t love the DMX, but I would have loved to have the youtube of that clip with Jeff Hullinger’s call of the play instead.

By Former STH

December 22, 2008 6:02 AM | Link to this

THANK YOU Najeh!!

By Former STH

December 22, 2008 6:07 AM | Link to this

What a shame,so now the AJC wants “respect” on the blogs? This must be a new policy that started, oh..about yesterday.

By Heath

December 22, 2008 6:27 AM | Link to this

And after the request, what is the first post about? May as well forget it, OB, Vick fans will never forgive us all for, ummmm….making him commit a felony…I suppose.

Boy, Vick fans are P** that the team is playing so well, huh? Didn’t know that Ryan being ROTY made us all racists. Go figure.

By cee

December 22, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

im a vick fan and im happy im happy to see the team doing well when alot of people didnt think they were going to win so go vick go ryan falcons in the playofss now lets work on having a winning record for back to back seasons

By Marcus

December 22, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

DOL, good job by Falcons, and I hope ARZ remains the 4 seed so we can play them. Can’t depend on CAR faltering in the NO game to give us the No. 2 seed. dang, we were 1 catch (either Boley INT vs. NO on 3rd and goal or Roddy’s almost spectacular catch vs. DEN in final minutes) from being tied for No. 2 seed.

Can’t see the games (located in DE and the Sunday Ticket just wasn’t in the budget this year), but is is Ryan feeling the rookie wall (based on the last 2 weeks performances) or are the below-average stats based on the quality of defenses from MIN and TB?

BTW, is the piece you wrote for Pro Football Weekly on Falcons draft needs already published or online?

By Keepin it real

December 22, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

Geaux Falcons!!!

By GB Fan in ATL

December 22, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this

Finally, a QB who knows how to run an offense without taking off at the first sight of trouble. Of course, like many things in the south, race is going to be an underlying factor in how people perceive Ryan and his early success. In actuality, it’s about numbers, and Ryan in his rookie year has passed Vick’s completion rate and passing yards.

Sadly, maybe the whole Petrino and Vick saga was what Atlanta needed to finally get their version of Peyton and Brady.

By humble

December 22, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

WOW. What a freakin season, I mean there is not one person outside of Flowery Branch that thought this possible. Simply amazing, as a season ticket holder I would love to see a home playoff game. Hopefully it will actually be a full dome. And for God’s sake please, please, please fill the dome this Sunday. We need to show the guys how much we support them and get there early and stay late to cheer our hometown Falcons.

GO FALCONS!!!

By wristshot

December 22, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Phenomenal game yesterday. Pro Bowl snub John Abraham shows why he’s one of the best in the entire NFL.

Does anyone have any info on Lawer Milloy’s knee injury? I know he taped it and tried to come back in the 2nd half but was not able to play. We definitely don’t want to lose that guy heading into the playoffs.

By Vick Supporter

December 22, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

I must admit, I was wrong.

Congratulations Falcons.

Congratulations Matt Ryan.

Good Luck in the playoffs.

By Mickey Moose

December 22, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

Props to all the Falcon organization…you have all done us proud. But Matt, please no more “dives”. I know you are a gamer but what good are the playoffs if you are sitting in the box with Mr. Blank nursing a broken limb? You throw and hand off. Leave the dives to the divers.

By Gen Neyland

December 22, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

The Minnesota Viking’s sideline in the 4th quarter, begging for penalties on virtually every offesive play they ran, looked like Al Franken’s team digging for votes. Only difference is the Zebra’s weren’t swayed. Falcon’s were fortunate that the Queen’s couldn’t hold the melon. Congrats to the Falcon organization, top to bottom.

By The Grinch

December 22, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Wristshot, that’s a good reason to hope for the #2 seed and that 1st round bye. Maybe it’s just a sprain. I also like our chances against Arizona as opposed to playing Chicago or Minny again. I can’t believe we’re talking playoffs; this is like a dream.

I liked Vick too, guys, but time to move on. The QB we have now is pretty good.

By ncat96

December 22, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

This has been a great season. I was a big MV7 fan. But I am a Falcons fan first. I have followed the Falcons since the days of Bartkowski when I was in Virginia. And now it’s just amazing how this team has turned it around. Some of you are still generalizing that all former MV7 fans want to see this year’s Falcons fail. Well this is not true. Mostly all of us are Falcons fans first. MV7 may have held a special place in our enthusiasm but that as far as it goes. I’m just a big Atlanta sports fan. All of us cheer for the Braves, Falcons, Hawks, and even the Thrashers. If you want to continue to spout off on racial overtones regarding the Falcons then so be it. In the meantime I and the rest of the Falcon fans will be cheering for the team to lay the lumber to teams in the playoffs. GO FALCONS! PLAYOFFS, HERE WE COME.

By Sautee

December 22, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

Heath

You are dead wrong if you mistakenly think that Najeh’s post was a racist statement.

I’m a white, lifelong Falcons fan who was disgusted with Vick’s actions, but loved watching him play football.

When D.O. mentioned the Metrodome, I too flashed on Vick’s run. It’s a normal connection to make, and has NOTHING to do with injecting hate into this blog. Don’t try to make something hateful that’s not even there.

Najeh, keep on keepin on. I know you love these Falcons too.

By Martin Calloway

December 22, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

We have a STUD quaterback. But Matt, I count 3 moments on your goal line dive where your career could have ended. Please don’t do that again. Whatever we’re paying Lawyer Milloy, he’s worth several times that. What a warrior.

By mars

December 22, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Vick Supporter. That’s being the bigger man.

By Singletary

December 22, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

I woke up this morning and couldn’t believe that TB lost and the Giants won. Now, if we keep ‘hold of our emotions and beat the Rams at home and if NOLA defends its dome against the Kitties, I think our guys might REALLY enjoy a week off.

Count on MR2 not to be parkin’ it in Mexico, e.g. Romo. This team knows there is a job to be done.

By Falcoholic

December 22, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Thank you to Arthur Blank for enduring the embarrassment of the past years and sticking with it. Thanks to Dmitroff and Smith for cleaning house and knowing who to keep — and for setting goals and building teamwork. Thanks to the team for busting their butts and giving Ryan a chance to kick off the training wheels. Oops, this sounds like Thanksgiving — it’s Christmas! I love this team for they way they have pulled it together and shed the selfishness and carnival atmosphere. This “process” should lead to a perennial contender!

By Exodus Mentality

December 22, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

This Falcons TEAM is the best team in the NFC. I can’t make it to Tampa, so I’m planning a big Superbowl party in the ATL to celebrate our 2nd trip to the big dance and perhaps even our first Lombardi. The Saints can definitely beat the Panthers, and if we lose to the Rams, I will have to re-evaluate my assessment of this coaching staff. No way you let your team experience a letdown like that. We can rest a few guys and still should be able to man up against St. Louis. The Offensive Line may actually deserve the NFL MVP award (although I think M. Turner will be the one to get it). They certainly deserve some recognition for the outstanding level of play. What a difference some proper coaching has made with this team.

Thanks so much @Sautee and Najeh for putting nicely what I was feeling like saying in a different way. I’ve been a Falcons fan for 40 years and I’ll be one for the next 40. I’ve been a Vick fan for 7 years, I’ll continue to be one as long as he’s on the roster, and I see absolutely no contradiction in that. I’ve been a Matt Ryan fan for less than a year, but as long as he is in the Red & Black and performing even close to this incredible year, I will certainly have his back as well.

By T-Bone

December 22, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Good word, Orlando. The trash talk needs to be kept off of all the blogs!

What a team! What a season! Go Falcons!

By Brian Hunt

December 22, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

They just keep finding a way to get it done. This team still has holes, but they win. I love it. Hopefully they’ll keep their foot on the gas and choke the Rams next week. I want that number two seed! It’s odd to find myself suddenly rooting for the Aints next weekend to beat the Panties.

By mountain_jim

December 22, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Hey Orlando - even though I have quoted your response several times (wrote copy, not prediction), most folks at the Atlanta Falcons forum still believe it was you who predicted the falcons to win only 1 game, in the Sporting News article preseason with your name on it and the 1-15 prediction.

By Quick

December 22, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Well yall, we did it. DOL, thanks man. You are green with the AJC and the Falcons, but you came in and stuck in out all season without any TM-like comments. VS, you da man sir. Heath, give it a break man. We own the Vikings, even when MV7 was at the helm. And true Falcon fans will not forget what he did in Atlanta. I think VS2 and crabapplejoe are the same person. Notice we havent heard from either one yet and today is the day to surely hear those two go back and forth. He must be busy. This is a beautiful day. GO BIRDS!!!

By Dogbyte

December 22, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

The Falcons continue to exceed our expectations, so why stop now? Or to quote Coach Smitty: Why not us? The #2 seed and a sold-out Ga Dome to reward Mr. Blank for making the right choices. Would I love to see that? You bet I would!!

By Quick

December 22, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Heard a couple fellas on mayhem this mornin callin up and talkin bout how they wanted the Birds to get G. Dorsey and how mad they were when we got MR2. I thought back to a call I made to another die hard Bird fan and we was goin back and forth bout ‘here we go again with the bad draft picks’ and my buddy even up til the forst few weeks didnt like MR2. I bought into him in the preseason cuz he just looked good. I’m down with anybody who dons a Falcon jersey and comes to play. Thats why I didnt like D. Hall and thats why I loved Jesse Tuggle, Chuck Smith and the boys from ‘98. No primadonnas on that team. Just guys who went to work everyday. Thats what this team is doing too. No primadonnas. R. White and M. Jenkins…much props to yall for steppin up big dog style this year (ya probably woulda been lookin for a job if ya didnt). Blank hired Dimitroff, Coach Smith and the rest of the coaching staff…man, talk about a beautiful set up. Everybody came together with a gameplan. Nobody bumpin heads. Coaches and players all on the same page. Listen to comments the players make in postgame interviews. These guys love playin here. I smell dynasty brewin in the A-town. And its such a sweet aroma.

By Stan Reeves

December 22, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

I still wish Arthur Blank would stay off the sidelines.

No other NFL owner does that and he catches a lot of grief for it.

But when you are filthy rich and used to having your own way, arrogance rules.

By Star of the Zanarkand Abes!

December 22, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Giants.

Thank you, Chargers.

Thank you, Arthur Blank.

GO BIRDS GO!!!

By Ken Strickland

December 22, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

What’s truely sad is the number of so called fans that are so influenced by personal/cultural issues that they’re unable to appeciate the exciting and positive things MVick did for this franchise, before he self destructed.

It’s just as sad that simular minded individuals can’t appreciate what an outstanding young QB we have in MRyan because of simular personal issues that are just as unacceptable.

However, real Falcon fans can appreciate how this yrs version of the DIRTY BIRDS have risen out of the ashes of the JMora, MVick and BPetrino fiasco’s to soar high like the mighty Phoenix. This is one of the best coached teams in the NFL, and it shows every week. There’s no way these DIRTY BIRDS will allow the Rams to become a roadblock to their playoff aspirations.

I don’t know of another NFL franchise that’s suffered as much, in the minds of public opinion, as the Falcons have these last few yrs. BUT IN THE END, IT’S NOT HOW FAR OR HOW OFTEN YOU FALL, BUT HOW QUICKLY AND HOW OFTEN YOU GET UP, AND THESE DIRTY BIRDS ARE A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF THAT. FOR REAL FALCON FANS, THE ADVERSITY OF THE PAST HAS ONLY SERVED TO MAKE THIS YRS SUCCESS MUCH SWEETER, RIGHT. THOSE OF YOU, ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ISSUE, WHO DWELL, LIVE, AND/OR INSIST ON BRINGING UP THE PAST, THE FALCONS AND THE FALCON NATION WILL SIMPLY LEAVE YOU AND YOUR PRESONAL/CULTURAL IGNORANCE/ISSUES TO YOURSELVES.

GO FALCONS/DIRTY BIRDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By CWilder

December 22, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

I am pleasantly surprised by the Falcons this year. I don’t keep up with pro football much, but it is always nice to see the home team winning. I watched part of the game yesterday. The only criticism I have is that the Falcons let the clock run down at half-time and kicked a field goal. The line of scrimmage was the 5yard line. If they had called a timeout they maybe could have been ahead 21-7 instead of 17-7 at the half.

By Sarah B

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

Amazing, absolutely Amazing! I love this team and who cares if A.B. wanders the sideline at the end, he owns this team and they are ours as well - you’re telling me that you wouldn’t want to wander the sidelines right now???? Liar! They couldn’t keep me off.

By jtb

December 22, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Thank you Falcons. What this team has done this year is nothing short of amazing. Your hard work and desire to prove everyone wrong has been inspirational and a joy to watch. I especially like how in his post game interview Matt Ryan talked about how he wanted to do this for the vets like Todd McClure. It’s nice seeing athletes play for something other than their paychecks. And thank you Arthur Blank for doing all he can to put a competitive team on the field every year.

It’s been a great year. Maybe Atlanta sports are finally going to turn things around.

By Singletary

December 22, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Blaylock, pile ninja, Good Hands Guard … whatever you want us to call you. But, sir, you flat out saved our TEAM twice in the last two weeks.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

December 22, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

That’s correct. I wrote the Sporting News copy. They do their own predictions. Never would have predicted this, though.

Everybody is doing real good today. Just try to ignore any crazy banter. I liked seeing the Vick clip Najeh posted.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 22, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Mister Poop, thanks for the clip of that ancient history. Vick was a fairly fast runner but was not a good quarterback. All Falcons fans owe him a debt of thanks for getting out of the picture so the Falcons could draft the great Matt Ryan. Ryan, in his rookie year, has exceeded anything Vick ever did, in terms of guiding the team to wins. Ryan will be a great quarterback for many years and the Falcons will become Super Bowl champs. Much of the credit should go to Vick. He’ll be remembered as the man whose trip to jail necessitated the drafting of one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

By Great Falconi

December 22, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Vick made some great plays in the ATL. He also made some bad ones. The one thing he gave Falcon fans was hope. Hope is something that is nearly always sorely lacking among Falcon fans. The bad thing is that Vick took that hope away. That’s why I don’t have much respect for that cat. He certainly had his moments, though. Nice clip, Najeh.

As for this season’s squad, it seems as if the team finally has a definitive plan (from the front office down to the equipment guys):

Play harder, smarter, and tougher than its opponents.

This team is far from perfect. The Falcons have had a lot of adversity in some games this year. The important thing is that they have overcome that adversity. They haven’t often been the team falling apart because of mistakes. It’s very rare to see a Falcon team have the guts to fight back and put mistakes and bad plays behind them. We’re seeing that kind of Falcon squad this year.

All in all, if the Falcons can continue to get better and execute this plan for a while, that ol’ no back-to-back winning seasons thing will go out the window.

By Khao$

December 22, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

I think people are missing the point of Najeeh’s clip. It wasn’t so much to show Falcons’ fans “remember Vick.” In the context of our win in the Metrodome, that was one of three memorable moments for Falcons fans at the Metrodome. Whether you support MV or not, it was a memorable win. Maybe not as big as yesterday’s (and certainly not as big as 98’s) because of what was at stake. However, it was a big win that set us up for the playoffs.

The story is, we’ve had some big games in that place. Games we’ve won. I wish the Braves and Lonnie Smith could say the same…

By Vick Supporter

December 22, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

@mars

Sorry man, but that wasn’t me that posted that comment about the falcons earlier. I do commend them on what they’ve accomplished this year.

By **Falcon** Fan

December 22, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Christmas List:

By deadman

December 22, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

why are the falcon recievers able to catch Ryans passes?COULD IT BE THAT THEY were jealous of vick’s money?count the number of passes they dropped when vick was the QB.

By **Falcon** Fan

December 22, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Dear “Brain-deadman” You should get an award for the dumbest(so far)post of the day.

By Glass half-empty

December 22, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

If the worse should happen and the Falcons end up #6 seed, would you rather return to the Metro Dome and a re-match with the Vikings, or play outside in Chicago…in January?

By RYAN SUPPORTER 2

December 22, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

WHAT’S THIS?

RYAN LEADS FALCONS INTO THE PLAYOFFS!!!

NOT BAD FOR A ROOKIE, HUH?

SPECIAL THANKS TO ADRIAN “FUMBLE KING” PETERSON & THAT #7 ON THE VIKES

THAT 30-YD FUMBLE MADE ME LOOK TWICE, HE IS VERY VICK-LIKE!!! LOL

HOW’S THAT CROW TASTING?

BOTTOM-LINE:

RYAN = PLAYOFFS! PLAYOFFS! PLAYOFFS!

VICK = LOWLIFE DOG-KILLER!!!

RYAN WILL HAVE HIS REDEMPTION!!!! OH, AND ROY ;)

WHO NEEDS A 130-MILLION DOLLAR BUST?!!!

By Bigeasy830

December 22, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Well I hate to keep bringing up the Cleveland Browns comparison….Just kidding, no I don’t. But, last season Derek Anderson passed for over 3700 yards and 29 TD’s. The Browns thought they had a future great as well. One season does not make a career. Marino made it to the Super Bowl his second year in the league and everyone thought the Dolphins would win Super bowl after Super Bowl for years to come. Marino and the Dolphins never made it back. One season does not make a career, Congrats on a great season, but this is a good not great team. And by Great Franchises standards this is a good not great season.

I still say we should have drafted Dorsey in the first round then Falcco later on. Flacco would have been there, Time will tell.

Falcons, The Next Cleveland Browns Of 2009.

By Quick

December 22, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Hey *Falcon Fan*, why is it immature to call the Falcons ‘dirty birds’? Just because it wasnt thought of until the 90’s dont mean its outdated or meaningless. ‘Dirty’ represents two things; 1. The black bird on the helmet, since a real falcon is not black is a figurative representation of ‘dirty’. 2. We live in the heart of the ‘dirth south’. So the nickname ‘dirty birds’ probably won’t ever go away and aint outdated. So if you dont like the term sir, just dont use it. But it, like conversations and film clips of Mike Vick, aren’t goin anywhere. Deadman, what the hell are you talking about?

By Are you kidding me?

December 22, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Bigmouth830 - Yeah, Dorsey was such a difference maker for KC. Without him, KC might have lost more than Detroit. And I wouldn’t trade Matty for two Falcco/Flacco or how ever you want to spell his name.

FYI Dorsey had 39 tackles and 1.0 sacks for the season.

By Quick

December 22, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Bigeasy830, is this another great prediction like the others weve had all season. Look back thru the archives and see all the other negative comments left on these blogs. All the negative comments in the world will not deter the real Falcon fans from remaining loyal and optimistic about a bright future with this organization. We’ve had plenty of bad years. You cant hurt our feelings. After all, we live in Atlanta. This aint exactly the city or World Championships.

By Bigeasy830

December 22, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

By are you kidding?, 2 years ago Mario williams was talked about like a dog and the world love Vince young and Reggie Bush. Now Mario Williams is a Pro Bowler and one of the most dominate young D-linemen in the game. I repeat the Falcons are are having a nice season and so is Matty Ice, But, one season does not make a career and one play-off appearance does not constitute a dynasty. Time will tell.

Falcons, The Next Cleveland Brown of 2009.

P.S in respect to Mr, Ledbetter, I am not going to even go there on your comment about my typo or you calling me bigmouth. I got some old school Bernie Mac one liners so you really don’t want to go there.

By School Marm

December 22, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Slow down “Quick” and your spelling may improve.

By RYAN SUPPORTER 2

December 22, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

JUST A FRIENDLY REMINDER:

RYAN = PLAYOFFS!!!

VICK = PRISON!!!

130-MILLION DOLLAR BUST!!!

By Quick

December 22, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Ya know, misspelling words on blogs really takes alotta the emphasis outta the points I try to get across. Good grief. Both of my latest blogs have crutial misspellings on ‘em. That sucks. But the Dirty Birds are still in the playoffs baby! And it dont matter how ya misspelk that.

By 4th and goal

December 22, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

I do agree with BigEasy830 saying one season doesn’t make a career and one playoff appearance doesn’t make a dynasty. Don’t get me wrong, I’m pretty sure Ryan will pan out and I understand the whole Tommy D. coming from NE hoping he can do the same here thing. We’re off to a good start and there is nothing wrong with being optimistic. You gotta start somewhere right? TRUST ME, the Falcons will not be the next Cleveland Browns. Thats just like saying the Falcons will go 2-14 with Ryan starting as our QB. Ain’t that right BigEasy?

By Are you kidding me?

December 22, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Oh PLEASE don’t use any Bernie Mack one-liners on me. BTW, don’t you have any of your own? And for your and Quick’s info, NO ONE could be happier than I am that the Falcons are is the playoffs, baby.

One last question for BE830: You say Falcons, The Next Cleveland Brown of 2009. Have there already been Cleveland Brown of 2009?

By monty

December 22, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

BiG EaSy

Sounds like sour grapes to me!

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 22, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

The only reason I posted that link was because when I think of the Metrodome, I think of three things: the 1991 World Series, the NFC Championship Game upset and Vick’s run.

Now, of course, there’s a fourth memorable Metrodome moment for Atlanta sports fans.

Sure, the Falcons have moved on and now have a promising, winning team again. But I don’t see why Falcons fans should forget about the many, many enjoyable moments that occurred during the Vick era just because it ended badly.

Mike S.: I had my sound on mute, so I just picked the first Youtube hit for “vick vikings”. I didn’t know this version didn’t have Hullinger’s commentary. My bad.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 22, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

By the way, here’s the final ten minutes of yesterday’s game. Congratulations Falcons.

By Are you kidding me?

December 22, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop- I have no problem in remembering some of MV’s great moments(including that run against the Vikings)as they should be remembered…and appreciated. But, some of Jackson’s runs yesterday were ALMOST as mind-boggling. The point in Jackson’s case(and often in Vick’s): Had he bought time in the pocket might he have found a receiver and gained even more? Both are(one of them was)too anxious to pull the trigger and try to win it all themselves. It’s—as they say—a teamgame.

By This Gets Old

December 22, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Can y’all believe this happened? Last year it seemed like the season would never end. This year it’s like it never happened (at least for most of us)

That Monday Night game against the Saints was one of the ugliest times in Falcon history, and I’ve seen every season. Wow, unbelievable!

We get to watch a playoff game!

Hey, where’s FrozenNorth?

By Play-offs!

December 22, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Comparing to the Falcons to the Browns is not completely accurate. This year’s Falcons team is in the playoffs, whereas last year’s Browns team missed the playoffs by choking when they had a chance to control their own destiny. Also, Derek Anderson’s year was completely out of nowhere. He was not drafted high, and although he is young, he was good candidate for being a one year wonder. For every Kurt warner there are 10 guys like Majik Man. Ryan, on the other hand, was very highly regarded by most scouts - so his success can’t be considered a fluke.

Now this isn’t to say that Ryan can’t become another Rick Mirer. At the very least, Ryan will have a year at some point where he is not so great, because it is the NFL and their is so much parity. Look at Manning in 2001 and Brady in 2002. And yes, one year does not make a dynasty. Like I said, there is so much parity in the NFL. It would be almost impossible for this current group to not have a down year or two at some point, and it could very well happen next year. And given the history of the Falcons, all fans should always keep the history and parity in mind if for no other reason than to minimize the disappointment if and when the going gets tough with this new regime. That way people won’t jump off the bandwagon once there is a bump in the road. But to lable this team a one year wonder based solely on history is idiotic. The Patriots didn’t have much history before 2001, and the Colts glory days were long gone before drafting Peyton Manning. Look at the Bucs before Dungy’s arrival. History does have to start somewhere. Why not here?

That being said, in the NFL nothing is for certain. The Falcons need to make sure they take advantage of everything that is before them. In the parity driven NFL, going from Super Bowl Champs to cellar dwellers (and vice versa) can always be a season away. And that can be said for EVERY team. The attitude of this team and organization right now points to a very promising future and present, though. Heres’s to the Falcons making a deep run thsi year and having many more siuccessful years in the future!

GO FALCONS!!!

By Bigeasy830

December 22, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

By Play-offs!, great post.

By been here since '67

December 22, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

big easy you said the falcons are having a “nice” season; who, in your opinion, is having a “good” season; I’d say when looking @ the falcons; the ‘80 falcs, the 98 falcs; the ‘04 falcs; and maybe a couple of other years this isn’t a “nice” year; it’s a “great” year

By Play-offs!

December 22, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

One thing I would like to add, even though I see a bright future for the Falcons in general, don’t be completely surprised if the Falcons are not as successful next year, although I would say right now they should do well next year. Again, parity. We are in a very competitve division with three other very good teams. While I wouldn’t neccessarily say we will be next year’s Browns, there is something to be said about the surprise teams such as last year’s Browns. In the NFL, usually the surprise team doesn’t do as well the very next year. A few examples, with the year being the one after their surprise season, would be the 1995 Patriots, 1998 Bucs, the 1999 Cards, the 1999 Falcons, the 2000 Colts, the 2002 Patriots, the 2004 Panthers, the 2007 Saints, and the 2008 Browns. However, if the team does not do as well next year, we shouldn’t panic. In a lot of those cases I mentioned, those less than stellar seasons were followed a lot of successful ones. But, hey, could also have also have a great follow up year with many more after. You never know in the NFL.

By Mike

December 22, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

Ken, A win this week and a loss by the Panthers I get to gladly say you were right with your bold preseason prediction. You said they would win their division…I thought I was being optimistic saying 8-8 maybe 9-7. Play-offs…very good post. Based on this years performance of the teams that the birds will be playing next year it looks rediculous. They will have road games against Carolina, New Orleans, Tampa, Dallas, NY Giants, New England, and NY Jets…they will be home against Carolina, New Orleans, Tampa, Miami, Buffalo, Philly, and Washington…with 2 games still to be determined. If they win their division they in all likelihood have the toughest schedule in the NFL next year with Minnesota and Arizona being added to their schedule..Buffalo being the only one that currently has a losing record. I do see the Falcons being a couple of pieces away from being good to being great…a pass rusher opposite Abe and a pass catching tight end. I also think Brooking needs to consider hanging up the cleats…he is getting burned on pass plays by tight ends and running backs. He has lost the step he used to have getting in passing lanes. I think with our current GM and coaching staff in place we have a few years of good football here in Atlanta with sporadic greatness……..

By Bigeasy830

December 22, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

By Play-offs again great post, most of the teams you mentioned struggled because of the tougher next year schedule. Romeo Crennel panicked this year by pulling Anderson when his team had bigger problems. They lost some of those earlier games probably because Anderson was still recovering from that concussion he got in the pre-season. Injuries and many other thing determines the consistency of a Franchise. New England with a Healthy Tom Brady wins 13 games this year and Miami and Jets would not have a shot in this last week for the play-offs. Falcons are having a dream season but so are Miami and Baltimore. Ryan is having a terrific rookie season, but so is Flacco and Johnson and Forte.

By 4th and Goal, you got a great memory man. I said it, meant it and I am here to represent it. I was wrong as wrong could be. I admit it. Ryan is much better than I thought he would be. But, so is the coaching staff that I loved from day one. And I must also admit, I did not think Arthur Blank could keep his meddling hands off the team. But that is this year we will see what will happen in the future. But for now FALCONS FANS ENJOY, CONGRATS. I will eat crow and I have lost money messing with this team, but like a bad cold, I will be back next year. VS, VS2 let the race thing go fellas you can make your point without being offensive, be the bigger person, it took me a while to learn that. Like Cedric the Entertainer said in Barber Shop.

“IT’S JUST HEALTHY CONVERSATION”.

By ProudBirdFan

December 22, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

I, like the entire city, is just as surprised at the accomplishments this team has shown this year. I truly thought after the D. Hall/Vick/Petrino fiasco it would be 5-10 years before this team put together a winning season. Boy were we all wrong, thank God.

Remember the ‘91 Braves worst to first season? It happened because we got Shirholtz (sp). He put the players on the field and management in the office. Arthur Blank did the same when he hired the man from NE. These guys get the ball rolling and the players and coaches do the rest.

If Matt Ryan stays healthy, and a Falcon, get used to winning seasons for some time to come. We’ve got guys that can run the ball, (bet SD feels a little stupid now huh?) guys that can catch the ball, and a guy that can throw the ball. And now our offensive front line is doing their job because they know if they do we move the ball down the field.

Watch NO put a big one on Carolina Sunday. They have nothing to lose, so watch for trick plays, triple reverses, fake field goals and the like. Brees is shooting to break Marino’s record too, so the ball will be flying. And wouldn’t it be great to have our division ALL with a winning record?

Speaking of which, before we all get too far ahead of ourselves, we’re only half way there having back to back winning seasons. But the way the team is put together now, I honestly believe it will happen next season, and hopefully by week 12.

Win, lose or draw, thank you Arthur Blank, Mike Smith, and all you guys for bringing our favorite sport back to Atlanta. We’re having a blast now on Sundays, and I know you are too.

As a Falcon fan since 1972, this has been by far the greatest season I can ever remember. January football. Who’d a thunk it??

Now go get ‘em!

By Play-offs!

December 22, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

Big easy,

Very true on the various reasons why those teams were not as successful after their surprise season. You also have to take into account that the following year you not only have the other teams’ attention, but the opposing teams also have all off season to study your tendencies, whereas a surprise team probably didn’t show those tendencies the year before(Hence, the improvement) so opponents had less time to study it. But the main reason I made that post was not to preach be leery, but to point out even the successful dynasties had off years sprinkled in during their run. Like I said, a lot of those teams went on to have a string of successful seasons. So even if we do come up a little short next year, though I haven’t seen any signs that pint to that, fans need to keep in mind that it may just be a bump in the road, not disaster. The one thing that I will say is promising is the hunger and desire and the mentality of the coaching staff. Those teams that I mentioned that did not go on to future success were usually content after their surprise season. This coaching staff doesn’t seem to have that complacency.

And also, don’t forget the Cardinals(speaking of teams who ave become complacent) dream season, though I think their success has been due to a weak(very weak) division. I will say that the Ravens and Dolphins have had magical seasons as well, but I don’t think the Ravens are as much of a surprise. The defense is older, but they are a lot of the same players who have been on their dominating D throughout the decade. Remember, they are only 2 years removed from a 13-3 season. And I wouldn’t say the Dolphins aren’t even as big of a story as the Falcons. True they were 1-15 last year, but what they had in place going into this year seemed much better than the train wreck we resembled. Although, I actually thought the 1-15 and 2-14 predictions that the “experts” called for was a little ridiculous.

By RLH

December 22, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

It looks like good things do happen to people that deserve them. Mr. Blank deserves this after all he has been through. First Vick then Petrino. He is trying to give us a team to be proud about but things keep happening. GOOD LUCK and CONGRATS Mr. Blank and the Falcons!!! Now if we can add another pass rusher and beef up our pass defense, maybe the Super Bowl will be next!!!!!!! GO FALCONS!!!!!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 22, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

NOT IMPRESSED

——THE ROAD TO THE PLAYOFFS——-

I AM FOR ONE NOT IMPRESSED IN THE LEAST AT THIS PLAYOFF APPEARANCE…….

IT IS NOT A SHOW OF A BETTER TEAM, BUT A DECLINE IN THE NFC!

———LETS COUNT THE WAYS———-

FIRST OF ALL, WHEN YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING TEAMS ON YOUR SCHEDULE:

-DETROIT

-KANSAS CITY

-OAKLAND

-ST LOUIS

NOT IMPRESSED!!!

————THEN YOU HAVE————-

THINK ABOUT THE CONTENDERS THAT THEY HAVE PLAYED THIS SEASON AND LOOK AT HOW MANY OF THOSE TEAMS WERE PLAYING WITH THEIR “MARQEE” PLAYERS……

BELOW ARE THE SO-CALLED CONTENDERS THEY PLAYED & THE MARQEE PLAYERS THAT WERE OUT…….

TAMPA (JEFF GARCIA) OUT BOTH GAMES

SAN DIEGO (SHAWN MERRIMANN) OUT

MINNESOTA (PAT WILLIAMS) OUT

NEW ORLEANS (REGGIE BUSH) OUT 1ST GAME

NOT IMPRESSED!!!

——-THEN THERE WERE———-

THE CONTENDERS THAT WERE AT FULL STRENGTH……

CAROLINA (1ST GAME)…….LOST

PHILADELPHIA………LOST

TAMPA (1ST GAME WITH SUB)……LOST

DENVER…….LOST

NEW ORLEANS……..LOST

NOT IMPRESSED

SO YOU LOW SELF-ESTEEMED LEAF FOLLOWERS, GO RIGHT AHEAD AND FEEL PROUD ABOUT YOUR PATHETIC SEASON…..NOT IMPRESSED

SPEAKING OF LEAF

WHAT THE HECK WAS HE THINKING WHEN HE TUCKED AND RAN?……THAT WAS LIKE WATCHING A LOW BUDGET PLAY STATION :)

—————BONE CRUSHING HIT———-

DID YOU SEE THE LOOK ON LEAF’S FACE WHEN HE TOOK THAT 1ST QUARTER HIT?…..

HE GOT UP LIKE HE HAD BEEN HIT BY A MACK TRUCK…..HE WAS STAGGERING LIKE A LITTLE GIRL THAT GOT DIZZY ON A MERRY-GO-ROUND……

THAT WAS HILARIOUS

AFTER THAT HIT, HE WAS MORE PATHETIC THAN USUAL……..

——————IN FACT—————

TAVARIS JACKSON OUT PASSED AND OUT RUSHED BOTH HE AND TURNER……

————SPEAKING OF JACKSON————-

THE FALCONS HAD NO ANSWER TO THE MOBILE QUARTER BACK…….THEY CRASHED THE POCKET BUT THEY WERE GRABBING AIR….

———-GET USED TO IT————

THAT WAS JUST A PREVIEW OF WHAT MV7 WILL DO TO THEM, BUT AT AN EVEN HIGHER LEVEL……..

JANUARY 20, 2009

SINCE MV7 GOT TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME IS REGARDED AS A LOOSER…….

IF LEAF DOESN’T WIN THE SUPERBOWL…….THAT WILL MAKE HIM NOTHING SHORT OF……..A……

BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-

BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOURS TRULY

VICK SUPPORTER 2

By Supes

December 22, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

VICK JOCK SNIFFERS & SUPPORTERS - Nothing more than RACISTS who can’t stand the thought of a WHITE QB leading a team their HERO failed miserably.

Showing your TRUE COLORS, keep it up, sure makes coming here and reading your pathetic, jealous, disillusional and venom spewing comments a fun experience!

By JS

December 22, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Man if Ryan got into the endzone on that dive, I would have won my fantasy championship game. Oh well, I hope I get to visit Ryan soon, he lives close by. Anyways Supes, your an idiot.

By 4th and goal

December 22, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

VICK SUPPORTER 2 2008 W-L RECORD

5 WINS AND 10 LOSES

THAT MAKES YOU 5-10

BUT CHECK THIS OUT

WITH 15 PICKS AND 5 TD’S

YEAH THATS READING THE DEFENSE

SO LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT

NO PRO BOWL VOTES (NOT EVEN ALTERNATE)

NO MVP VOTES (NOT EVEN RUNNER UP)

LOST BADLY DOWN THE STRETCH

WHEN CRUNCH TIME GAMES ARE PLAYED

GOT MORE PICKS THAN TD’S

GOT A LOSING RECORD

FINAL ANALYSIS………………..

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS :)

TURKEY ROCKS!!

TASTE JUST LIKE PLAYOFFS!!

MMmm! MMmm! GOOD!!

DON’T BE MAD :(

NEVERMIND, WHO ARE WE KIDDING??

AND THE STORY CONTINUES………PLAYOFFS!!

By Boo Boo

December 23, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

CRUNCH TIME DECEMBER NUMBERS

Chicago Bears ….. 3 - 0 (From 6-6 to 9-6)

Atlanta Falcons ….. 2 - 1 (Clinched Playoffs From 8-4 to 10-5)

Minnesota Vikings ….. 2 - 1 (From 7-5 to 9-6)

Carolina Panthers ….. 2 - 1 (Clinched Playoffs From 9-3 to 11-4)

Philadelphia Eagles ….. 2 - 1 (From 6-5-1 to 8-6-1)

New York Giants ….. 1 - 2 (Clinched Division From 11-1 to 12-3)

Dallas Cowboys ….. 1 - 2 (From 8-4 to 9-6)

Arizona Cardinals ….. 1 - 2 (Clinched Division From 7-5 to 8-7)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers ….. 0 - 3 (From 9-3 to 9-6)

(Team Out of Playoffs, but Playing for Pride as a Spoiler)

New Orleans Saints ….. 2 - 1 (From 6-6 to 8-7)

By ProudBirdFan

December 23, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

Name me one rookie quarterback, ever, in the NFL that could run a no huddle offense, a hurry up offense, and has the luxury of calling audibles at the line of scrimmage. I can’t think of any either.

Matt Ryan studies film like no other QB in the league. That’s a fact, told by many. He’s obsessed with watching film. And it’s paying off. Vicks problem was he slept through the films. They had no interest with him.

Was #7 talented? Absolutely. No doubt. He did things on the football field that were basically inhuman. But, he put it on himself to be a one man team. He’d take a snap, and figure he’d make a play all on his own, totally forgetting there were 10 others wearing the same uniform.

That may work in college, but not in the NFL. At least not for long.

Let the .1% Falcon bashers have their say. Time will show the Birds are definitely on the right track. And it’s been a long time since we were able to say that. Best of luck in January Falcons.

By T-Town Dawg

December 23, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

Hey Vicks Jockstrap2, it took you a while to show up today. Where have you been punk? No matter how much BS you spew, these facts still remain: 1. The Falcons are going to the playoffs 2. Matt Ryan is the leader of this team 3. Your boy is still in prison until 1/09 4. Your boy is going to a halfway house 1/09 5. Yoyr boy wil be suspended from the league until Goodell decides to let him back in 6. He will NEVER play for the Falcons again, thank God!!!!!!!!

By This Gets Old

December 23, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

“The only reason I posted that link was because when I think of the Metrodome, I think of three things: the 1991 World Series, the NFC Championship Game upset and Vick’s run.”

Najeh I was there for all of those but missed yesterday. I only remember about three or four people who were on this blog who’ve been on this blog since Winklejohn wrote it.

Ken Strickland was one too but any real fan has to feel just as good about this year as we did when Vick was really the whole team. It’s funny but even after the Falcons won when Vick was here the same arguments were on this blog. It seems so long ago I can’t even remember what name I posted under before I just changed to This [all of the stupid fighting] Gets Old.

In reality the Falcons have gotten two special QB’s. Every real fan just wants to win.

By Keepin it real

December 23, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this

I am going to spell this out for you Vick sniffer2, I talked to quite a few mwn of color in Atlanta today, and they all shred the same view, Yes everyone of them.. And I quote( Roddy White has got to be having the time of his life,having a ball one man said,showing he was no bust:another,while yet another stated that Jankins,and White Have to be elated to have a Q.B. that can actually pass the damn football without hitting them in the foot,or breaking a bone in their hand…

So Punk Vick Sniffer You don’t really think You speak for the Majority of very literate people of color? or are You so socially retarded that You think every African-American believes the way You do, Because if You do my little welfare cellar dwellar, You sir are one misguided @sswipe!!!

MR2 Forrrrrrrrrrrreverrrrrrrrrr!!!!

By darrell starks

December 23, 2008 3:04 AM | Link to this

THIS IS FUNN THE ICE MAN IS THE TRUTH. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Ivan Payne

December 23, 2008 6:04 AM | Link to this

This is sad.

Our Falcons make the playoffs this year and our own city newspaper’s blog is over run by Vick cliche’s and supporters running it into the ground with their blind bias. (Bravo AJC.)

I will say this….

Vick Supporter 2…..you were WRONG!! BigEasy830….you were WRONG!!

These Falcons are already contenders. They were since day ONE! Congratulations Falcons! Job well done!

And for you Vick lovers out there diminishing this team, I only have one stat for you to look at.

Matt Ryan’s Rookie Year = Playoffs Mike Vicks’ Rookie Year = Sat the bench pondering thoughts of dog fighting kennels

By Moe

December 23, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this

Obama

+

OJ

+

Ookie

=

THE NEW THREE STOOGEZ

By The BlogFather of Scroll

December 23, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this

Fumble, Fumble, Foiled by Fumbles, Timeouts burned, and Vikings humbled.

Are there deep mystical forces working for the Falcons? Surely it would take a spell to make the football take flight from the scrimmage line and scramble backwards purposefully toward the Falcon’s end zone twice in just a few minutes.

Or do the Falcons have an angel? A mischievous angel with a sense of humor that harkens back to the keystone cop silent movie era. An angel who turned the vikings into bumbling fumblers. The multiple images of the vikings chasing the pigskin dozens of yards behind their line of scrimmage provides some of the lighter moments of the past 300 years of stooge history.

There can be only one reason that supernatural beings would favor our Falcons: The ghosts of Vicks Dogs will be avenged even if it takes an unholy aliance of witches, angels, and willful pigskins. OMG I just invented the cheerleader eligible play!

By The BlogFather of Scroll

December 23, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this

What impresses me the most about the Falcons is that nothing phases them. No matter what the score, I get a sense that they will win. The depth of hustle across all their squads, special teams, offense and defense, is unparallelled. Big plays come from everywhere and everyone. It’s a true team effort. Teamwork is a cliche. There’s no I in team. Etc. But these Falcons illustrate the Team Concept better than any team I’ve ever seen. There are no superstars really, everybody makes mistakes, and everybody shines, and they win or lose as a team. I cant get over it. When they lost their first game this year, I remarked that they were never out of it, and that they played like a team. They impressed me, the most bitter, most recriminating, most vindictive fan who’s heart has been stomped on by more lost games and lost dreams and lost everything than I deserved, with team play. Nobody else said the word team but me. I alone understand why these falcons will bring a ring to beautiful downtown Fulton County. (BDFC)

I alone know the depths of the misery of knowing that your team should have won a game if only….I alone wander the streets at night in a gloomy stupor reliving that wounded duck Dallas threw for the win in the closing moments of the NFC championship game of 1981, it was that damnable three man rush. The three man rush. I was still in my twenties when police found me pushing a shopping cart down an alley off of Martin Luther King drive muttering to myself about the three man rush…the worst defensive alignment that ever crossed the pike, a fool’s game of prevent that never ever works.

Aw, I could go on and on, but even though I swore off the Falcons in 1981, and have pretty much gotten over it, with no lasting quirks or ticks or any negative side effects whatsoever, I’m fine, really, no really, I’m good here…..

I am vulnerable once again because I believe.

My license plate reads, “I Believe”, but I’m talkin’ bout the Falcons, baby.

By To the AJC

December 23, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

Where was your disclaimer for the Vick saga? Don’t worry. “We” expect that from “you”.Obama 08.

By VS2 is not impressed

December 23, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Stop the presses. Now nothing short of a SB win can save a rookie QB from being a bust. HHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Hope you continue to bring us the good karma with your buffoonery. Haven’t seen an update from you on the League that doesn’t exist where your boy is going to find “Redemption” with the 15% chance he plays in said non-existent league. I do find it amusing that “success” and “redemption” is transfer to a halfway house. Of course when you yourself live a life where half way would be a major upgrade I can see why you would think so. Redemption is near - just as soon as the 2009 season suspension is served and your bankrupt fool pays the court ordered multi-millon dollar settlement back to the Falcons. Though you are not impressed - I am fully impressed with your brilliance. Street Cred Rules! You are right though - T Jackson is a STUD!. Only 4 fumbles and cost the game and likely the playoffs but damn he’s exciting.

By VS2 and Looser

December 23, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

I enjoyed your clever PUN with Looser but we all understand the anatomical challenges your hero faces after stint in the Pen. As always :)

By dawgs4ever

December 23, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

The Vick supporters are STILL out there?? They have the balls to even SHOW their faces? Vick was just a fast running back trying to play QB. He had his moments, but is passer rating was ALWAYS pathetic. He is a loser, has always BEEN a loser and I hope you Vick supporters choke on your turkey. There is only ONE reason you still sniff his jock strap and one reason only. Shall I continue….?

While he may come back to the NFL one day, no one will fear him any more than they feared him when he was here. He usually found a way to lose the game with poor decision making. Ryan is 5 times the QB of MV7. It’s not because he’s white, it’s because he is just BETTER!

By Rick

December 23, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

I agree dawgs4ever. MV& was a superior athlete, but not a good QB. His passes were always all over the place. Superior speed, but an NFL quarterback is not supposed to be a running back. He excited people with plays that only Vick could make, but was nerver consistant enough to be counted on. Of the Falcon’s victories, only about 2% were BECAUSE of MV7. Of the Falcons’s victories, 50% were IN SPITE of MV7. The numbers don’t lie….look ‘em up..

By Time Traveler

December 23, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 2, 2009 7:25 PM | Link to this

NOT IMPRESSED

——-FALCONS “WIN” THE SUPER BOWL——-

THE HEADLINES SHOULD READ “TITANS LOOSE SUPERBOWL”…

NFL SHOULD ADOPT BCS STYLE RANKING SYSTEM TO PREVENT ANOTHER CATASTROPHE LIKE TEN V. ATL

—————LEAF GETS LUCKY—————

IT STARTED WITH ATLANTA RECEIVING A 1ST ROUND BYE, GIFT WRAPPED FROM THE OFFICES OF “SHERIFF” GOODELL

WITH BOLDIN OUT THE CARDINALS DIDN’T STAND A CHANCE IN RD. 2…LUCKY!

LEAF GOES 20-33 AGAINST THAT DEFENSE, WITHOUT A TD? PSSSHHH

NOT IMPRESSED

DON’T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE NFC CHAMPIONSHIP…OK, YOU GOT ME STARTED LOLULZ.

—————BIGGEST CONSPIRACY EVAR—————

YOU’RE TELLING ME PLAXICO BURRESS HAS TO FACE LEGAL REPERCUSSIONS FOR HIS ACTIONS? YEAH, RIGHT.

WHERE IS THE SMOKING GUN SHERIFF GOODELL?

WITH PLAX OUT THE WEAKER FALCONS EEK BY WITH A SO-CALLED WIN. I GUESS $70MM DOESN’T BUY PLAYOFF BLOWOUTS LIKE IT USED TO.

—————IF MIKE HAD BEEN THERE—————

THE FALCONS WOULD’VE BEEN AWARDED THE FIRST EVER FULL-PLAYOFF BYE. GO STRAIGHT TO THE SUPER BOWL. THE NUMBER “7” WOULD’VE BEEN ON THE 50-YARD LINE. THE BEER WOULD’VE FLOWED LIKE WHINE.

—————AND I’D STILL BE IGNORANT—————

NOT IMPRESSED

By GSU-Lee

December 23, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Merry Christmas guys. Lets enjoy the holiday and then kick some St. Louis butt. GO FALCONS!!!!!!

By Ken Strickland

December 23, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

THIS GETS OLD-excellent comment. Both QB’s won on the field, and an intelligent fan would be able to appreciate them both. MVick proved that a less than proficient passer can be successful in the NFL WITHOUT excellent WR’s, pass protection, a power running gm and a competent HC/OC. MRyan proves how successful a talented, proficient passing rookie QB can be when given pass protection, a power running gm, excellent WR’s, and a competent HC/OC.

They’ve both given this franchise, and real fans, a level of success, over the last 6 yrs, that’s been unequaled in franchise history. IT TAKES AN ACTUAL IQ, AND/OR AN UNBIASED MENTALITY, TO APPRECIATE THE ON FIELD SUCCESS OF BOTH QB’S.

By Are you kidding me?

December 23, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

If VS2 could get hold of some of the buyout money and buy an NFL franchise, he would have the only team with one (1) player. But, I would buy a ticket to their one and only game just to watch VS2 pick up the pieces, afterward. PETA might help if he would turn the remains into dog food.

By Barry

December 23, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

“ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!” That’s how we did it. We did it and are going to do it in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!”

I said all along that this team was destined to show a new style of winning football games here in Atlanta, and they did it with chemistry, teamwork, spirit, and love for the game. This is a well coached team with a different vision and mission for the organization. And now it has mamnifested itself in getting to the playoff by playing even and/or dominating teams. The football community is now on biard with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!” because we feel the pain and the joy that this franchise has been through, The players, the coaches, the fans all feel the love a that is going into this accomplishment. Remember, we were not invited to the dance. But now we are here and we are going to “SHOCK THE WORLD” in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”. Like Coch Smith said “WE are still in the ” process” and we are going to the playoff!!!

WE ARE GOING TO DO IT IN “ONE HEARTBEAT!!”

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHH! This is a SECRET from a Falcon FAN.4 Tell EVERYBODY.

           ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!

Ringold

By Exodus Mentality

December 23, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

@Ken Strickland, Thanks for some of the best blog posts I have seen in some time.

Question for anyone with nerve to take it on. And before you answer, do not even start with the premise that this is a knock on Ryan or MV7 love, because neither of those is anywhere near the truth.

Why is it that there seems to be an almost universal heaping of praise for our Rookie of the Year QB as the biggest factor in this year’s turn around? (With my man Barry being the most notable exception - ONE HEARTBEAT BABY!) When the reality is we have the 1. NFL 2nd leading rusher and top 5 rushing team (without any yards from the QB spot), 2. NFL 2nd leading receiver (with a lot of short passes turned into big yards), 3. NFL 3rd leading sack man 4. Top 10 in sacks allowed 5. Close to setting league record for fewest punt return yards allowed. I could probably go on, but no time for more research and I think you get the picture.

Like Blogfather said, This Just Healthy Conversation.

By Mr Charlie

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

Exodus:

1. We would not have the 2nd rated running back/5th rated rushing team if teams did not have to honor the pass.

When teams loaded the box, our QB made them pay. If all a team had to worry about is stop our running game, they would.

1. We would not have a #2 reciever if we did not have a QB who could get him the ball.

2. We would not be 5 in sacks allowed if we had a QB who did not get rid of the ball.

In other words, the offense starts with a guy how knows how to run it, and that is one attribute that is rare in rookie QBs.

By 4th and goal

December 23, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

@ Exodus Mentality

I get your point, really I do. I am one of those who think Turner should be the MVP candidate and not Ryan. Turner is having a monster year rushing. People may say he’s a nonfactor in the passing game, but then it seems like the argument around here is that a RB should run, a WR should catch, and a QB should THROW. However, I do beleive Ryan is ROY. He gets the attention because 1) he’s the QB for a left for dead franchise that nobody gave a snowballs chance in hell yet their 10-5 and going to the playoffs. We both know the QB is usually the face. 2) his drat status and contract, is he living up to it, well if you think anybody is worth 72 mill to play football then I think you have to say yes, espescially considering the circumstances he came into. And 3) he’s having a heck of a year for any QB let alone a rookie. I don’t care if their using BC’s offense or whatever, he’s not seeing the same defense or defensive players. He’s supposedly going up against the best of the best who are trying to win each game all the same. He has handled himself extremely well and anytime your team shatters all expectations people are looking at who are the players they have starting with the QB. He’s ROY in my book, but no MVP yet! He deserves a lot of credit, but not all of it. Turner should be the MVP candidate on the team, but we both know the QB is the glory position. Especially if you have a good. People are just amazed at what he is doing. Is he doing it by himself? NO, but he is doing something and thats winning. What is any RB or WR win loss record? Nobody knows. That stat always goes to the QB.

This is just a healthy answer :)

By Ross

December 23, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

I’m skipping what I know must be the usual battle between rednecks and Vick apologists above to point out this interesting fact:

The Falcons’ first victory in franchise history over a good team, or even one that had a winning record, came over the 1969 Vikings under Bud Grant, when the Vikings were very good - 12-2 and on the way to a Super Bowl loss to Hank Stram’s Chiefs. We beat them in Minnesota, outside in the snow. The Falcons wore all white so they were camouflaged, and took the Vikings and Joe Kapp by surprise. It was the last game of the regular season.

-drl

By Free Mike Vick

December 23, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

I said this before. If the Falcons had not turned their back on Vick, this team would have won the division. Ryan will never be able to match Vick’s skill set.

By Free Mike Vick

December 23, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

I said this before. If the Falcons had not turned their back on Vick, this team would have won the division. Ryan will never be able to match Vick’s skill set.

By Free Mike Vick

December 23, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

I said this before. If the Falcons had not turned their back on Vick, this team would have won the division. Ryan will never be able to match Vick’s skill set.

By Ross

December 23, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah - forgot to mention - the Falcon’s only TD came on a Claude Humphrey fumble return. They won 10-3. They were led by former Viking head coach Norm van Brocklin.

-drl

By Bud Wiser

December 23, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

By Free Mike Vick

*I said this before. If the Falcons had not turned their back on Vick, this team would have won the division. Ryan will never be able to match Vick’s skill set. *

You are right on, brother! Matt Ryan will never be as stupid as Vick to throw away millions over a penny ante dog fight …

Ryan will never attempt to run around behind the offensive line like a headless chicken, then throw a dying quail pass into the center of the field …

Ryan will never display the absolute arrogance bred by absolute ignorance in believing that his crap don’t stink and he can do whatever he wants just because he is a football player …

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 23, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

“Why is it that there seems to be an almost universal heaping of praise for our Rookie of the Year QB as the biggest factor in this year’s turn around?”

QBs are the NFL’s money makers. When teams do well QBs tend to get too much credit, and when teams do poorly QBs tend to get too much blame. It’s not a situation unique to the Falcons.

By espn

December 23, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

All who said vick did not study flim is a lie . He work hard ask any of the coaches who work with him. An for as the passing matt revicers had to learn ho to play. Have you notice how they get open now. It is not because of the pass it’s the sepration this year. no small offense line the defense is not rank 28th rank defense. For matt he has beem cool so far and has not brought into the MVP hype the new white hope. But some of the fans think he is the white hope. just read some of the post. where most on both side are whey off. when you win all look good when they were just the bounce of the ball to go either way.
now when they lose it won’t be as bad. and people you don’t know what a person will do he has not been a pro football player a full year. Vick was a fool off the field. and most of you have thrown him under the bus. This guy can play and make no bone about it he has been humbel. a focus vick will be a great player. all of us has mess up . Matt has not been hurt or had to play hurt but he will and watch how they do him then. Matt merry Xmas and the same to Mike vick.

By Are you kidding me?

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

Najeh Davenpoop and others: Don’t attempt to talk reason to these idiots. They are totally unreasonable.

By crabapplejoe

December 23, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

ESPN wrote: “But some of the fans think he is the white hope.” Dude, get with clue…when it comes to the quarterback position in the NFL we don’t need no great white hope…we define the postion. Its the Mannings and Bradys going to the SuperBowl…not Akili Smiff or MV7 the dog killer. That’s why the Vick thing is so controversial…because he was your “Next Great Black Athletic Quarterback” (NGBAQ)to come along and “redefine the quaterback postion”. All of your great black hopes end up as failures.

By crabapplejoe

December 23, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote: “MVick proved that a less than proficient passer can be successful in the NFL WITHOUT excellent WR’s” Ken, I’m checking my 2006 and 2008 Falcon’s lineups. I see Roddy White and Michael Jenkins as the starting receivers, plus Vick had Alge…what changed in the wide receiving corps that puts Ryan at such an advantage. Don’t forget that Vick also took Peerless Price from a 90 plus reception guy to a worthless receiver in one year…what’s up? Its Mr. Vick dude.

By crabapplejoe

December 23, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Mike wrote: “I also think Brooking needs to consider hanging up the cleats…he is getting burned on pass plays by tight ends and running backs. He has lost the step he used to have getting in passing lanes”“ Brilliant dude, let’s get rid of the leading tackler on the team…he an Milloy are tied with 93 for the lead and Lofton is right behind with 92. Where is Michael Boley?….61 tackles…less than two thirds of Brooking’s output yet you focus on getting rid of Brooking. Hmmmm…I wonder why. Could it be a pigmentation problem? The coaches have certainly noticed the last few games and have replaced Boley, not Brooking, with Coy Wire. Yet, nobody comes on these threads and says Boley needs to go…and I know why. Do you really think the coaches that have taken us to the playoffs don’t know where the problem is in the LB corps…it ain’t Brooking. And I’m not even going to mention Boley’s dropped interception that cost us a game. Only in Atlanta would people come on a blog and talk about getting rid of the leading tackler on the team simply because he is white…unbelievable!

By Howie in Augusta

December 23, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

while watching old game highlights of MV7 today I couldn’t help but wonder why we didnt win a super bowl with this guy at qb….Sure, he self-destructed and brought a franchise down with him but the franchise is back and better than ever….We now have us a real football team, not a smoke and mirrors show…Good solid coaching, a good OL, and an up and coming defense…I don’t know how far we’ll go in the playoffs but I wouldnt bet against us making it to the conference championship game…Go Falcons beat St. Loo and then keep rolling…..

By Exodus Mentality

December 23, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the reasoned responses. I actually agree pretty much with all of them. I really wondered if there would be anyone else willing to speak on it thoughtfully rather than hatefully.

QB’s do tend to get the lion’s share of the blame, except apparently in the case of the Favre types who have evidently achieved the level of sainthood. Mr. Charlie, the Vikings loaded 9 and 10 in the box in the fourth quarter and they weren’t made to pay at all. As a matter of fact they made the Falcons offense look pretty pedestrian. Those same receivers freely admit they didn’t play up to their potential in previous years so that’s pretty much a lame argument as well.

As to the future of QB in the NFL, I happen to believe that the recent ESPN article regarding the next offensive revolution in the NFL is pretty on point. http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?section=magazine&id=3779821 And Tim Tebow would be the prototype for this revolution so please try not to make this a color thing.

Ryan is my rookie of the year for sure. I sincerely hope he can keep it up so my Falcons can keep winning.

And crabapple, I don’t back down off my statement about Tavaris Jackson. He made some very bad ball handling mistakes Sunday, largely because our defense put pressure on him. But he also nearly took the game back by himself. If you think that’s worth nothing, so be it. I don’t want to see him again, because if he learns from his mistakes and gets a chance to develop under the right coaching, he will be a beast in the air and on the ground. He’s rather lacking in weapons., other than Peterson, right now.

By Mythless

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

This “blog” is repulsive. It’s like being dipped in crap. Shoved headfirst into a steaming pile of excrement. A white person reading this drivel has his IQ lowered by 20 points.

It’s analogous to being forced to watch Soul Train, the Jeffersons, anything Will Smith is in, and say, “this is interesting and entertaining!”

Is there any wonder an apartment complex a day is burned down by a negro?

By richbrave

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

Said my goodbye’s to COY BACON of NFL fame. Not a young man to be trifled with. Met him while on the road several times in the early 80’s. We were both hanging out in the bar in a hotel in FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA where I was conducting meeting room seminars during the day. A BIG dude. And that entourage that he carried with him had a couple of seriously tough customers in it. Two of them almost stomped a patron to death in the parking lot. The police came, but COY was clean. Seems the aggreaved didn’t care for the REDSKINS and BACON’s playing abilities. COY’s buddies didn’t find his statements amusing. No more lip from Mr. Patron. I spoke to Mr. BACON only when spoken to using “Sir” a lot. He was quite civil however as long as you kept the subject away from football.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 23, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

IF I WAS THE “GM”

———-I WOULD KEEP————

MV7 NUMBER 1

MICHAEL TURNER

RODDY WHITE

JOHN ABRAHAM

MICHAEL BOLEY

MICHAEL JENKINS

JARIUS NORWOOD

THE REST ARE WORTHLESS

———MV7 FOREVER :)———-

JANUARY 20, 2009

WATCH HOW MANY SPORTS STATIONS COVER THAT DAY :)

By rms

December 23, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Come on man, stick with the subject at hand enough of the Vick comments and Ryan bashing. Focus on the good of the team this year. Sports (especially when you win) should bring people together no matter what race you are. It gives something to cheer about and escape from the grind of everyday life for a while. This city is so rooted in racism that it really ought to be ashamed of itself. Lets focus on smashing the Rams and winning in the playoffs and squash that racist crap alone!

By rms

December 23, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Good thing you’re not the GM-stupid!!1

By richbrave

December 23, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

rms:

Lots of us would-be-regulars(except we just get tired of wasting time reading infantile posts) have tried that same tack here. Does no good. Forget the dudes who bait everyone with their mindless drivel. Just do your thing and enjoy the FALCONS’ rise to glory.

By 4th and goal

December 23, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

MERRY CHRISTMAS VICK SUPPORTER 2

THANK YOU FOR CHANGING YOUR POSTS

NO PLAYOFFS SINCE 200…..WHAT?

THERES ALWAYS NEXT YEAR

NO BACK TO BACK WINNING SEASONS SINCE?

FOREVER……………D@MN!!

AND THE STORY CONTINUES……………

HAVE A NICE DAY :)

By Mr Charlie

December 23, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

Exodus, Turner also ran for 70 yards, you proved my point.

By Mr Charlie

December 23, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Exodus, Turner also ran for 70 yards, you proved my point. Any NFL team can stop 1 thing.

If all a team had to do to stop the Falcons was load the box, Turner would not have 1500 yards, and the Falcons would be 5-10.

How about the first game of the year when the box was loaded, and Mattie Ice hit Jenks in the seam with his first career NFL pass?

Coincidently Turner ran for 220 that day.

I agree a case can be made for Turner as MVP, but it really is the chicken or th egg argument.

However, I do think Ryan would agree with you that Turner is the MVP.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 23, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

2004 (LAST DIVISION TITLE)

——————-AND—————-

2004 (LAST CHAMPIONSHIP GAME)

——————REMAINS——————

2004 AND COUNTING :)

NOT IMPRESSED

——THE ROAD TO THE PLAYOFFS——-

I AM FOR ONE NOT IMPRESSED IN THE LEAST AT THIS PLAYOFF APPEARANCE…….

IT IS NOT A SHOW OF A BETTER TEAM, BUT A DECLINE IN THE NFC!

———LETS COUNT THE WAYS———-

FIRST OF ALL, WHEN YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING TEAMS ON YOUR SCHEDULE:

-DETROIT

-KANSAS CITY

-OAKLAND

-ST LOUIS

NOT IMPRESSED!!!

————THEN YOU HAVE————-

THINK ABOUT THE CONTENDERS THAT THEY HAVE PLAYED THIS SEASON AND LOOK AT HOW MANY OF THOSE TEAMS WERE PLAYING WITH THEIR “MARQEE” PLAYERS……

BELOW ARE THE SO-CALLED CONTENDERS THEY PLAYED & THE MARQEE PLAYERS THAT WERE OUT…….

TAMPA (JEFF GARCIA) OUT BOTH GAMES

SAN DIEGO (SHAWN MERRIMANN) OUT

MINNESOTA (PAT WILLIAMS) OUT

NEW ORLEANS (REGGIE BUSH) OUT 1ST GAME

NOT IMPRESSED!!!

——-THEN THERE WERE———-

THE CONTENDERS THAT WERE AT FULL STRENGTH……

CAROLINA (1ST GAME)…….LOST

PHILADELPHIA………LOST

TAMPA (1ST GAME WITH SUB)……LOST

DENVER…….LOST

NEW ORLEANS……..LOST

NOT IMPRESSED

SO YOU LOW SELF-ESTEEMED LEAF FOLLOWERS, GO RIGHT AHEAD AND FEEL PROUD ABOUT YOUR PATHETIC SEASON…..NOT IMPRESSED

SPEAKING OF LEAF

WHAT THE HECK WAS HE THINKING WHEN HE TUCKED AND RAN?……THAT WAS LIKE WATCHING A LOW BUDGET PLAY STATION :)

—————BONE CRUSHING HIT———-

DID YOU SEE THE LOOK ON LEAF’S FACE WHEN HE TOOK THAT 1ST QUARTER HIT?…..

HE GOT UP LIKE HE HAD BEEN HIT BY A MACK TRUCK…..HE WAS STAGGERING LIKE A LITTLE GIRL THAT GOT DIZZY ON A MERRY-GO-ROUND……

THAT WAS HILARIOUS

AFTER THAT HIT, HE WAS MORE PATHETIC THAN USUAL……..

——————IN FACT—————

TAVARIS JACKSON OUT PASSED AND OUT RUSHED BOTH HE AND TURNER……

————SPEAKING OF JACKSON————-

THE FALCONS HAD NO ANSWER TO THE MOBILE QUARTER BACK…….THEY CRASHED THE POCKET BUT THEY WERE GRABBING AIR….

———-GET USED TO IT————

THAT WAS JUST A PREVIEW OF WHAT MV7 WILL DO TO THEM, BUT AT AN EVEN HIGHER LEVEL……..

JANUARY 20, 2009

SINCE MV7 GOT TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME IS REGARDED AS A LOOSER…….

IF LEAF DOESN’T WIN THE SUPERBOWL…….THAT WILL MAKE HIM NOTHING SHORT OF……..A……

BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-

BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOURS TRULY

VICK SUPPORTER 2

By 4th and goal

December 24, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

I LOVE YOU VICK SUPPORTER 2

2004(LAST DIVISION TITLE)

2004(LAST CHAMPIONSHIP GAME)

REMAINS 2004 AND COUNTING :)

I’M IMPRESSED!!

ALTHOUGH………………..

BEFORE FALCONS CLINCH PLAYOFFS

VICK SUPPORTER 2 = HAPPY :)

BUT CHECK THIS OUT

AFTER FALCONS CLINCH PLAYOFFS

VICK SUPPORTER 2 = SAD :(

FINAL ANALYSIS……………

YOU DO THE MATH

SO EASY A CAVE MAN CAN DO IT

HAVE A NICE DAY :)

By Boo Boo

December 24, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Matt Rayn has the makings of a very good NFL quarterback. Still, Matt Ryan is a rookie. He is not an MVP because Mike Smith, et al, designed an offense with training wheels to keep Matt Ryan upright throughout the season. Imagine what Matt Ryan can do when the training wheels come off, so he can utilize the tight end and running backs in the passing game more. There is no MVP on the Atlanta Falcons, as far as league recognition goes, no matter how far the Falcons go in the playoffs. The Falcons are in the playoffs because they are a TEAM, with no MVP, just good leaders on and off the field. Mike Turner could be the team’s MVP for doing what he did as one of the training wheels; but he’s going to the Pro Bowl. Recognize Abraham as the team MVP that let the tricycle (Ryan-Turner-White) peddle to some big leads, then hold on.

By Mr Charlie

December 24, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Jackson benched game 3 for inability to read defense,

4 fumbles, 2 lost in biggest game of life NOT IMPRESSED.

Jamarcus Russell 50 passer rating NOT IMPRESSED.

Vince Young never see another NFL snap NOT IMPRESSED.

Troy Smith beat out by rookie Joe Flacco NOT IMPRESSED

Mike Vick in the pen NOT IMPRESSED

Mattie Ice, running no huddle, diving for TD, managing games, making teams pay for loading the box, helps Roddy White realize potential. ROY, MVP, PLAYOFF BOUND

I-M-P-R-E-S-S-E-D

By Brent

December 24, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are in the playoffs.

Mike Vick is in Federal Prison (probably taking it up the poop shoot).

VICK SUPPORTER 2 IS A DOUCHEB@G!”

By JUST WAIT AND SEE

December 24, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

OBAMA WILL PARDON VICK LIKE HE DESERVE TO BE!! AND HE WILL MAKE ROGER GOODELL LET VICK PLAY IN NFL AGAIN!!

VICK DAY OF REDEMPTION COMING!! YOU HATERS JUST WAIT AND SEE!!

By The INQUIRER

December 24, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN…MV’S Christmas present will be a sweet little Pit Bull puppy. He decided on that instead of turkey.

By LOL WUT

December 24, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

just wait and see the President-Elect’s buddies on the left would $iht bricks if he pardoned a dogfighter. Murder, rapist, traitor, probably not. But hurting a dog? That makes the left very angry…and you wouldn’t like them when they’re angry.

By Ross

December 24, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Mythless - yes it’s repulsive - you ignorant redneck POS - you’re no better than the banger Vick apologists around here, and if all of you would just go away we could talk about football. When I was in St. Louis I didn’t have to put up with cracker a* hicks and wannabe bangers. Why don’t you all go off somewhere and annihilate each other?

Vick sucked because he was stupid. You suck because you are stupid. Maybe you two have a lot in common. Why don’t you visit him in jail? He can’t toss a ball any more, but he tosses a great salad.

-drl

By Nick-of-time

December 24, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Dear “Ross”: You preached and scolded for two paragraphs but you didn’t talk football. As the saying goes: “Get that splinter out of your eye before worrying yourself about the 2 X 4 in mine.”

By Trey

December 24, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Everyone who’s talking Black QB vs. White QB, MV7 vs. MR2 needs to shut the hell up. You’re either a Falcons fan or you’re not. When MV7 was our QB I cheered for him. When he went to prison I was upset. Not because I thought he was treated unfairly, but because his off the field actions ruined my favorite football team and I wasn’t able to see the most exciting player in decades anymore. I’m a Falcons fan first, just like everyone here should be. One player is not bigger than the team. And if you’re one of the one’s bringing race up in this discussion (in this day and age) then you sound like a slack-jawed mouth breather who never finished the 7th grade. The QB discussion has nothing to do with race and everything to do with talent. Go Falcons!

By Eric C.

December 24, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Hey everyone…the following excerpt from STATS is interesting:

“New Orleans has lost nine of 12 versus Carolina, including six straight at home since 2001, but the Saints are 6-1 at the Superdome this season.”

Do you think New Orleans is due to win a home game against Carolina?

By Nick-of-time

December 24, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Eric C. - If the Saints can’t beat Carolina in the Dome, we don’t deserve the #2 seed. And in that case, we will think about the Denver, Philadelphia and, yes, the Saint game where we could have clinched it(with a win this Sunday.) Meanwhile, GO FALCONS—take care of your business and let the Saints take care of theirs!

By Pi$$onaDawg

December 24, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

When Atlanta and Tampa Bay win Sunday please people don’t buy all the Milk & Bread from the Grocery Store because we all KNOW HELL is FREEZING OVER.

By Preacher Man

December 24, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

“Pi$$onaDawg “

Mr. Ledbetter,

I find the above to be a very offensive “screen name”. You can do something about it. I wish you would.

By Ken Strickland

December 24, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

CRABAPPLEJOE-I’m supprised you’d ask that question. Even the most out of touch fan knows neither Jenkins nor White were the same WR’s they are today.

(1)They were both inexperienced and didn’t have a competent OC/WR coach(GKnapp, who was recently fired by the Raiders for overseeing another none productive passing OFF).

(2)Knapp’s OFF scheme used the WR’s primarily as downfield blockers.

(3)His OFF didn’t use slants, quick outs, crossing or post patterns.

(4)Knapp called running plays 80% of the time on 1st and 2nd downs(predictability). The majority of Knapp’s pass plays were called on 3rd down, usually 3rd and long.

(5)Under Knapp, the Falcons attempted the fewest screen passes, pass to RB’s, and passes overall, in the NFL.

(6)The Falcons, especially RWhite, led the NFL in dropped passes, especially TD passes, during that time.

Both WR’s lacked confidence in themselves, the OFF and their OC/HC. MVick would have done well with this coaching staff and this OFF. He wouldn’t have been the passer MRyan is, but overall, the OFF would have been just as effective. On the other hand, MRyan would have been totally destroyed trying to run Knapp’s OFF, and would have been vying with CChandler and CMiller for the most concussions, and trips to IR.

I RESPECT THE ON FIELD ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF BOTH QB’S. HAS ANYONE NOTICED HOW CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS ONLY COMPARE MRYAN TO MVICK, OR VICE VERSA, AND NO OTHER FALCONS QB?

Something tells me we are going to end the regular season at home by beating the crap out of the Rams.

By Nick-of-time

December 24, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see if J. Mora hires Knapp to be his offensive coordinator. Want to bet?

By crabapplejoe

December 24, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote: “MVick would have done well with this coaching staff and this OFF. He wouldn’t have been the passer MRyan is, but overall, the OFF would have been just as effective. On the other hand, MRyan would have been totally destroyed trying to run Knapp’s OFF” You know what they say about opinions “they’re like a**holes, everyone has one. Mick Vick would still be running aroung like a chicken with his head cut off. He would still have no touch on the ball and his ability to read defenses would still be limited. Vick had every opportunity under a variety of situations and he sux as a QB…its that simple.

By rms

December 24, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

LOL @ Ross. Hey Ross, I am sure Vick can toss a mean salad or better yet he’ll more than likely get VS2 to toss his salad. What a bunch of morons. I sure hope the Falcons dont lay an egg on Sunday. That would be embarassing to lose to the Rams especially if the Panthers lose. That would really be bad. I think we will pull if off though!

By Ken Strickland

December 25, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

CRABAPPLEJOE-that CHICKEN WITH HIS HEAD CUT OFF ran us to 2 conference championships, 2 divisional title gms and gave the Packers their 1st ever home playoff loss. He managed to do all of this in just 4yrs as a starter, and missed all but 4gms in one yr with an injury. Dout Johnson, the superior pocket passing QB, managed only 2 wins in the 12 gms he started. Vick returned that same season from a preseason broken leg, took the same team and won 3 of the last 4gms he started. MVick accomplished more in less that 4yrs as a starting QB, running around like a chicken with his head cut off, as you put it, than any other QB in Atlanta Falcons history.

You can hate him, hate what he did, and/or the way he did it, but no matter how deep in denial you plunge, you can’t deny the facts. Only a complete fool would continue denying the facts while they stare you in the face. The same holds true for those idiots that take the same negative approach and attitude toward MRyan and his amazing accomplishments.

Over the past 6yrs, the Falcons have had 2 of the most talented and/or exciting young QB’s NFL in history. While their skill sets were different, and their successes came under different circumstances, both succeeded in a time frame unequalled in franchise history.

By Ken Strickland

December 25, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

CRABAPPLEJOE-I hope you included yourself when you said opinions are like A holes, everyone has one. MVick had no problem reading DEF’s the 3yrs he played under HC Dan Reeves. It was GKnapp who wouldn’t install a system that allowed his QB’s, including backups DJohnson and MSchaub, to change his plays at the line of scrimmage. After all, saying MVick couldn’t read DEF’s, or he would still have no touch on the ball aren’t supported by any facts and represent nothing but your A HOLE/OPINIONS. So you can stop hating.

By some sense

December 25, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this

Wow…got to weigh in on this one. Vick Lives in the ATL…what a sorry commentary. Everything about Michael Vick is everything that’s wrong evrywhere, yet lots of people still hold out that HE was wronged…unbelievable…the ultimate GETALIFE.

MV is in jail for the consequences of leading a thuggish lifestyle…should be a lesson to anyone who still sports a #7 jersey, starts all that yelling when confronted with the facts of the matter, and goes around calling people MF’s.

Question…Does anger breed contempt or does contempt breed anger???

By Nick-of-time

December 25, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

So much for trying to talk football. Why don’t you people go on Jerry Springer or Oprah, for Christ’s sake?

By UrinateOnaCat

December 25, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Dear Preacher Man,

We find your self-righteous ignorance to be very offensive, but you don’t see any of us asking for YOU to be removed.

If something truly “offends” you, then please be offended… and then SHUT YOU FACE about it. No of us care about your whining.

Please stop your Hating for at least Christmas Day, “Preacher.”

Recognize.

Merry Christmas to You, Sir or Madam!

GO, FALCONS !

By crabapplejoe

December 25, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote: “MVick had no problem reading DEF’s the 3yrs he played under HC Dan Reeves.” And don’t ever, ever forget why Dan Reeves was fired and run out of town after all he did for the Falcons (SuperBowl, remember). It was because he was the “old white-haired white guy who couldn’t relate to the young black kid who was going to change the QB position”. Go back and find me one quote where MV7 stood up for the coach that brought him into the league as a No. 1 pick. It didn’t happen because he is just a self-centered twit who ruined this franchise for a number of years. But all of that BS is behind us because we now have the “Golden Boy” who does the right thing on and off the field. MV7 was indeed a “coach killer” and much, much less as a human being.

By bank walker

December 25, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

GO COONS!!!!!!

By crabapplejoe

December 25, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote: “Even the most out of touch fan knows neither Jenkins nor White were the same WR’s they are today.” Yeah, I know because now they have a real QB. Even my wife asked me why Roddy and Jenkins suddenly became such good receivers this year. She follows it up by saying “I guess you were right all those years about MV7 sucking as a QB when everyone else thought he was “changing the QB position in the NFL”. I just love my wife. Merry Christmas.

By Debil

December 25, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

UrinateOnaCat - Isn’t that difficult for you? Do you feed it treats while you squat on it? BTW, I hope you got just what you deserved for Xmas.

By Preacher Manl

December 25, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Forgive them Father, for even if they know what they do; ignorance abounds in Your kingdom. Maybe the toy they got for Christmas will make them more tolerant and pleasant in the future.

Regardless, on this—Your Son’s birthday—we will forgive as you have always done. Amen.

New subject: GO FALCONS

By Ken Strickland

December 25, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

CRABAPPLEJOE-we’d all be better served if you’d learn to do a little research and formulate your OPINIONS/A HOLES based on facts rather than emotions and/or wishful thinkng. The Falcons fired HC Dan Reeves for the same reasons his former team,s the Denver Broncos and NY Giants fired him. He was a control freak that wanted absolute control of the team and most of the organization. His attempts to have total control in Denver alienated him from Elway, his star QB and Shannahan, his top assistant, who ultimately replaced him, along with his GM and the team owner. The NY Giants got rid of him for simular reasons.

The Falcons offered him the job before he became the HC of the NY Giants, but he refused because we wouldn’t/couldn’t make him the GM. After the Giants got rid of him, the Falcons offered him the job a 2nd time, and this time he accepted. He was given the control he’s always wanted, and became the GM, HC and OFF/DEF coordinator. His weak organizational skills, decision making, and inability to coach his teams through injuries and adversity started to show again with the Falcons, as it had with Denver and the Gaints.

When QB Elway got hurt, and the Giants lost RB Mendenhall, both teams collased. When the Falcons lost RB JAnderson and MVick to injury, both teams also collapsed. In at least 4 separate situations, with 3 different teams, Reeves was unable to keep his teams from falling apart when a key player went down.

After the SB, Reeves made a series of questionable decisions as GM. First, he literally dismantled his DEF. He refused to resign DE’s, Archembeau, who signed as a FA with Denver, CSmith, who signed with the Panthers, and traded DT CEllis to Denver. He waived MLB JTuggle, SS White, FS Robinson, and one of his CB’s, I don’t remember his name, but we got him from the 49’ers. On OFF, he traded TE Santiago to Dallas, allowed our best and most important OL, C RTobeck, to sign as a FA with Seattle and waived our #1 WR, TMartin. When RB JAnderson went down at the beginning of the next 2 seasons, DReeves was unable to prevent a total team collapse.

ABlank, didn’t fire him right away. He insisted Reeves give up total control of the team and hire OFF and DEF coordinators to help. Blank replaced him with RMcKay as GM and WPhillips as DC, but he was allow to retain his HC and OC positions. After MVick’s 1st yr as starter, the Falcons had a very successful season. We won the Conference title, gave the Packers their 1st ever home playoff loss, played in the Divisional playoff gm, and Vick earned Probowl nomination. The following yr, MVick broke his leg during preseason, and as it always happens with teams coached by DReeves, the team collapsed, winning only 2 of 12gms.

Vick returned from his broken leg, took the same team that won only 2 of its 1st 12gms, and won 3 of the last 4gms. It became obvious to owner ABlank, his team was losing with DReeves as HC and could win without him and his constant attempts to regain total control of the team.

ABlank didn’t do anything to Dan Reeves that his previous employers hadn’t done to him before, and for basically the same reasons. YOU NEED TO STOP QUOTING ME, GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOU A HOLE, GET OVER HATING MVICK, AND ACQUIRE SOME KNOWLEDGE.

By crabapplejoe

December 25, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

@Ken Strickland From ESPN.com in an article about Reeves being fired. “At one point, there appeared to be a rift between player and coach. Reeves said Vick needed to get back on the field; Vick responded that he wouldn’t play until he was fully recovered.” But, I’m sure you’re right, Vick had nothing to do with the firing of a coach who had taken teams to the SuperBowl four times including Atlanta’s only appearance. By the way I don’t hate Mike Vick, I hate what he did to the Falcons’ franchise and this city. It’s kinda like hating the sin not the sinner. Merry Christmas and ya’ll have a nice day.

By Boo Boo

December 25, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote:

CRABAPPLEJOE-we’d all be better served if you’d learn to do a little research and formulate your OPINIONS/A HOLES based on facts rather than emotions and/or wishful thinkng.

Then Ken Strickland wrote:

After MVick’s 1st yr as starter, the Falcons had a very successful season. We won the Conference title, gave the Packers their 1st ever home playoff loss, played in the Divisional playoff gm, and Vick earned Probowl nomination.

These are the facts Ken, not wishful thinking:

Vick’s first year as a starter was 2002. The team finished 9-6-1 that year, finishing second in the NFC South. The Falcons finished barely ahead of the 9-7 New Orleans Saints. A five quarter tie with Pittsburg won the Falcons a wildcard playoff berth. The Saints had to lose their last three games to allow the Falcons the ability to be playoff bound with their record. Tampa Bay (the 2002 SuperBowl winner) won the NFC South division with a 12-4 record. As the SuperBowl winner, the Tampa Bay Bucs won the conference title too, by beating the Philadelphia Eagles. Those were the Philadelphia Eagles who defeated the Atlanta Falcons in their division playoff game.

Ken Strickland also gave an opinion that Dan Reeves’ failures were from destroying successful teams, only to fail due to injuries to key personnel. The same core personnel was around in 2002, 2003, and 2004. It was with that personnel (and a healthy Vick), with which Dan Reeves made it to the playoffs in 2002, that Jim Mora was able to win the division in 2004. Both teams, both led by Mike Vick, lost in the playoffs, in Philadelphia to the Eagles. By “same core personnel” I refer to: Mike Vick, Warrick Dunn, Brian Finneran, Alge Crumpler, T.J. Duckett, Allen Rossum, Patrick Kerney, Keith Brooking, Chris Draft, Kevin Mathis, Jay Feely, Chris Mohr, Todd McClure, and Todd Weiner.

Since Dan Reeves is said to be such a “control freak”, and seeing Jim Mora as the complete opposite, how can anyone blame coaching style for the same eventual result? It seems more rational to blame the players who lost twice, than the head coach. Of course, we all know its easier to fire the head coach, than it is to replace a whole team.

By Ken Strickland

December 25, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

CRABAPPLEJOE-your reference proves my point about Dan Reeves. He wasn’t able to raise the teams level of play with his coaching ability, so he tried to rush Vick back to save his job. He had obviously been given an ultimatum from ABlank. Who else but a desperate HC would try to rush a player recovering from a broken leg back to save his job. All Reeves had to do was do a better job of coaching and motivating, which he’s proven an inability to do throughout his career. Instead of coaching and leading talented franchise players, Reeves has ridden the backs of these players.

Why wouldn’t you expect a rift to exist between Vick and Reeves when Reeves tried to force Vick to prematurely return from a broken leg. AT THE TIME REEVES WAS CALLING VICK OUT, NOT A SINGLE DOCTOR HAD CLEARED VICK TO RETURN. WHY DO YOU THINK DREEVES HASN’T BEEN MENTIONED OR INCLUDED ON A SINGLE GM/OWNER’S INTERVIEW LIST SINCE BEING FIRED BY ABLANK OVER 5YRS AGO? Finally, Reeves also accused another QB, John Elway, of getting him fired as HC of the Broncos.

Admit it, you don’t know what you’re talking about and you can’t bring yourself to admit it. Stop trying to fit that square peg into that round hole.

By crabapplejoe

December 25, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

MV7=coach killer.

By lwftcoastfan

December 25, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

hey wasnt there a guy, or maybe a girl on here that goes by the monicker vicksupporter2, and kept saying all season long that Matt Ryan was a 72 million dollar bust. that hater is now hiding, and eating his or her words. to be blatently idiotic like that is proof that there was hate all season long by this person. cant we all drop the hatred in the south and realize that is wastes energy and good coloumn space. to support vick just because he is black is idiotic. the guy will never play in the NFl again. move on, vicksupporter2, we have a real quarterback who engineered a team to the playoffs with dedication, and devotion. these are qualities mike vick never had, when he should have spent time studying game film, and working with his receivers, he was heading off to south carolina to kill dogs, and make chump change. how can anyone ever support that crap. Go falcons, and let’s drop that dirty bird nickname. i’m am outta here….

By Mr Charlie

December 25, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

I think the most telling stat was Vick did not throw a 4th qtr TD pass in 2006.

You are not an NFL QB if you can’t throw a TD pass in the 4th quarter over 16 games.

As you point out Vick/Falcons did have success early on, but he lost half a step, and defenses figured out how to defend him. However to defend him, they had to commit a spy to shadow Vick.

And before you put it all on Mora, as you said, Mora was the coach when they went to the NFC title game, so using your logic, obviously his success speaks for itself.

Again, when they are successful, it is all on Vick, when they lose, it is all on the coaching and supporting players. That is the definition of a coach killer.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 25, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Jim Mora currently coaches the worst secondary in the NFL.

Greg Knapp currently coaches one of the worst offenses in the NFL.

Ed Donatell currently coaches the worst defense in the Pac-10.

But keep telling yourself Vick was the problem, crabapplejoe. One day you’ll get over whatever he did to you and your family.

Merry Christmas, Happy Festivus, or whatever the hell else you celebrate.

By Boo Boo

December 25, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

The meaning behind the statement of Jim Mora (the elder), when he said, “Mike Vick is a coach killer” has to be understood. The key word is “coach.” While killing a coach can be interpreted as meaning the coach will be fired, the real meaning is that Mike Vick, due to his ability to play, based on pure athleticism, had a skill that could not be coached. You cannot coach someone to play football like Mike Vick. Mike Vick’s talent is simply an ability to react without a plan. However, the ultimate meaning is that due to Mike Vick’s lack of intellectual ability to learn a complex NFL offense (much less to learn to recognize and adjust to complex NFL defenses), he was uncoachable. As such, Mike Vick killed the need for someone to coach him. Mora the elder was pointing out that his son had been put into the awkward position of babysitting Mike Vick, because Mike Vick was uncoachable. While everyone else on the offense had to learn plays, routes and blocking assignments, everything went for naught when Mike Vick would panic and begin making up plays with his feet. Mike Vick killed any chance of a real coach (like Reeves, or Parcells, or Cower, or fill-in-the-blank) ever having any impact on the Falcons, in a post-Mora era. No coach knowing that would entertain being the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, with Mike Vick Arthur Blank’s pet marque player. That is why college coach Petrino was hired. That is why Jim Mora (the younger) began acting like he wanted to get fired (the radio interview comments, leading the team to a 7-9 finish after Blank said 8-8 would not cut it), and why for two seasons in a row the Falcons self-destructed, after getting off to 6-2 and 5-2 records. Mora wanted to coach again. Petrino, without Vick, found his lack of coaching skills were grossly overstated in the NFL, without Mike Vick.

By mr. charlie

December 25, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Michael Vick ran a dogfighting operation. True professionals committed to being the best at anything just don’t allow themselves to be involved in something like that.

Vick supporters don’t understand the concept of a true professional, and the committment it takes best.

By T to the D

December 25, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

DAMN! If you havn’t figured it out by now Coach Reeves…. From Americus, Ga.,…Could not even reach that tard.

By crabapplejoe

December 25, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Poop wrote: “But keep telling yourself Vick was the problem, crabapplejoe. One day you’ll get over whatever he did to you and your family.” Like I said earlier, Poop, its not what Vick did to me or my family…its what he did to this city and the Falcons’ franchise. You and Ken can keep making excuses for the thug all your want e.g. this coaches fault, that coaches fault, Roddy and Jenkins were terrible receivers in 2006 but miraculously became world beaters in 2008 all on their own. We have a true championship QB here now that the whole city should be proud of. I’m enjoying watching the Falcons for the first time in years. You and Ken can pine away all you want for the good old thug years…most of us have moved on and are having a good time.

By crabapplejoe

December 25, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote: “All Reeves had to do was do a better job of coaching and motivating, which he’s proven an inability to do throughout his career.” Hmmm…Dan Reeves has four SuperBowl appearances as a head coach. Only Don Shula and Tom Landry (ever heard of them?) have more SuperBowl appearances as a head coach. Yet, you state that Reeves has shown an inablity to coach and motivate NFL talent. Wow, are you on drugs or under the influence of alcohol this evening. And then you suggest that I “acquire some knowledge” on the subject….pleez. Merry Christmas.

By cutty

December 25, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

I sat in Atlanta Stadium when Randy Johnson hit Whomever Barnes in the season opener in 1966 during a blowout loss to the Rams. I also sat there for too many “expansion seasons” after. But with the demise of the Smiths and the arrival of Reeves the climate seemed to improve. Then Armageddon. Does anyone else think that for a certain #1 draft pick quarterback from an accredited university to be assigned an english tutor prior to his first season here had anything to do with the running debate concerning his abilities? How many top flite NFL quarterbacks, or elite professional athletes anywhere, share that distinction? And for those who say ” it don’t” my question is simply what is your station in life? Congratulations Falcons, and thank all of you for a most rewarding season.

By cutty

December 25, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

I sat in Atlanta Stadium when Randy Johnson hit Whomever Barnes in the season opener in 1966 during a blowout loss to the Rams. I also sat there for too many “expansion seasons” after. But with the demise of the Smiths and the arrival of Reeves the climate seemed to improve. Then Armageddon. Does anyone else think that for a certain #1 draft pick quarterback from an accredited university to be assigned an english tutor prior to his first season here had anything to do with the running debate concerning his abilities? How many top flite NFL quarterbacks, or elite professional athletes anywhere, share that distinction? And for those who say ” it don’t” my question is simply what is your station in life? Congratulations Falcons, and thank all of you for a most rewarding season.

By Boo Boo

December 26, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this

Ken Strickland wrote:

He [Dan Reeves] waived MLB JTuggle, SS White, FS Robinson, and one of his CB’s, I don’t remember his name, but we got him from the 49’ers [I could not find this mystery CB]. On OFF, he traded TE Santiago to Dallas, allowed our best and most important OL, C RTobeck, to sign as a FA with Seattle and waived our #1 WR, TMartin.

Jesse Tuggle was 33 during the 1998 season, and had played hard for Dan Reeves two more years (all of 1999 and 8 games in 2000). He retired (at age 35) having played his whole career with the Falcons. His number has been retired by the Atlanta Falcons and he is in their Ring of Honor.

William White was 32 in 1998 and did not play in the NFL after that season (retired after 11 seasons, mostly as a starter). He played two years with the Falcons, his final season being the 1998 SuperBowl season.

Eugene Robinson was 35 in 1998 and played for Dan Reeves in 1999 (total of two years with the Falcons). He played the final year of a 16-year career in Carolina. He also had an embarrasing moment (solicitation of prostitution) on the night before the 1999 SuperBowl (XXXIII).

O.J. Santiago played one year with the Cowboys (2000), playing in 11 games (no starts) and caught zero passes for zero yards. The Falcons traded him for undisclosed draft choices (one fourth round - 2001 draft), which was used to draft LB Matt Stewart (4-year player for Falcons). In the 2001 draft the Falcons drafted (along with Mike Vick) Alge Crumpler (TE). In the 2000 and 2001 seasons (without Santiago) the Falcons played Reggie Kelly at TE (drafted in 1999), and Kelly caught 31 passes in 2001 (8 in 2000), which doubled Santiago’s catch totals in 1999 (15).

Tony Martin played for the Atlanta Falcons for two years: 1998 and then 2001. He was 33 in ‘98 and 36 in ‘01. 2001 was his last year in the NFL. He was released by the Falcons because he was charged with money laundering and was facing trial in 1999. He signed a 4-year deal with the Dolphins that took into consideration that he would be at trial and miss training camp. If jailed, the Dolphins only owed him $100,000. He was aquitted and played for the Dolphins in 1999 and 2000.

Robbie Tobeck became a free agent after playing for the Falcons in 1999. He signed with the Seattle Seahawks, playing in only 4 games (none started) in 2000.

Obviously, these decisions were sound football decisions, due to the varied length of time an NFL player best holds his value AND the image importance the Atlanta Falcons tried to maintain, well before Commissioner Goodall made it mandatory league-wide. The likes of salary caps and team having to designate a player’s value to the team, made to keep potential free agents from leaving without compensation, all mean valuable players will leave, from all teams. That is the design for parity.

Thus, to use these examples as Dan Reeves being some incompetent head coach-GM means the same applies to every head coach-GM, which is unfair and unreasonable. It shows that a head coach-GM has to know when to hold em and know when to fold em, and this can mean waiving an old star, in hopes of no one signing him, so he can be resigned for less money, with a retirement planned with honor.

The reality of Dan Reeves’ firing is twofold. One, Arthur Blank did not hire Dan Reeves. Thus, Arthur Blank did not like the amount of control Dan Reeves had be given by the Smith boys. Two, Arthur Blank wanted a showcase player to attract a paying audience. He preferred this dancing bear over a high-priced team of winners. This created conflict between Reeves and Blank over 1.) Mike Vick not playing more in his rookie season; 2.) Mike Vick delighting the crowds in 2002, winning honors and a playoff position, and 3.) Mike Vick being injured in 2003, unable to play while the team designed around him failed. Even though Arthur Blank got his wish and replaced Reeves with a head coach picked by Blank’s new GM from Tampa Bay, Rich McKay, this new head coach (Mora) and GM McKay could see the need for a backup quarterback that could eventually replace Mike Vick AND be successful. That is why they drafted Matt Schaub; but had Dan Reeves not been fired, it would be reasonable to see how he would see the same need for drafting to fill this position, despite having a healthy-enough-to-play Mike Vick at the end of the 2003 season.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 26, 2008 3:34 AM | Link to this

Dan Reeves was good enough to keep a team competitive, but unlikely to get your team a Super Bowl ring — kinda like Marty Schottenheimer in a sense. He’s definitely not a bad coach in the sense that his teams never really performed beneath their talent level. The problem with him in Atlanta, like Ken said, was that he had control over personnel decisions, and he consistently misfired in that area. Ken did a good job pointing out his free agent decisions, but it’s his draft decisions — trading the pick used on Jamal Lewis to move up to draft Reggie Kelly, the countless misfires in the middle and late rounds such as Jammi German, Will Overstreet, the late Travis Claridge, etc. — that stick out to me the most. Getting contributors in the middle and late rounds is how good franchises separate themselves from bad ones, and under Reeves’ personnel management the Falcons consistently failed to acquire good post-first round talent.

Back in 2003, I’ll admit I was among those who wanted him fired. Looking back, I still think it was the right decision to try to hire someone who could build this team from the ground up and eventually lead them to the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, Arthur Blank hired the guy with the worst credentials, and predictably Jim Mora stagnated the growth of the Falcons’ franchise. Would the Falcons have been better off keeping Reeves instead of hiring the idiot Mora? Definitely. But they would have been much, much better in the long term by replacing Reeves with Lovie Smith or Tom Coughlin.

I’ll still maintain that if they had hired Smith or Coughlin, not only would Vick have been a more consistent player, but the Falcons would have also been more consistently successful during the Vick era, and if/when Vick got caught up with his legal troubles, the Falcons would not have collapsed like they did last year. Thanks to the hard salary cap, the talent gap between a 6-10 team and a 10-6 team is really not that significant. Good coaching makes all the difference.

By mr. Charlie

December 26, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Dan Reeves played in 2 superbowls as a player, was an assistant in 2 others, and was the head coach for 4 more.

That is 8 superbowls where he stood on the sideline.

But yea, but he was the problem, not Vick.

By crabapplejoe

December 26, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

@Boo Boo: Thanks for the reality check! @mr. charlie: Some folks just don’t get it and will defend the dog killer to the end…blaming everyone else in the process.

By MWC

December 26, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Just when you take Ken S off your sh!tt list, he has to go back to telling us all the way it is and continue to show his ARSE!. I knew you would’nt dissapoint. It boggles my mind how you come up with some of this @##$%%!!

By JOEBRAVE

December 26, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Ken,VS2,and all other Vicks jock sniffineg aplologists, are merely showing the great divide that still exists in this entire universe,it’s called Intelligence!!!

By Bigeasy830

December 26, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Dan Reeves was a great coach but a terrible player personnel guy. He drafted TE after TE. I also hated the fact that he broke up the team that had just went to the super bowl. He should have given them one more year. I also hated the trade for Mike Vick. I thought we should have drafted LT first round then either Quincy Carter or Drew Brees in the second round. Remember Quincy outplayed Drew Brees in a bowl game. Dan Reeves also never drafted any UGA players. I thought Hines Ward would have been a steal in the 3rd round or later but Reeves never thought of giving him a chance. I loved Dan Reeves as a coach and thought he should not have been fired but, he needed a strong GM and player personnel person to work with him. His bad player personnel decisions lead to the NY Giants firing him. For once, I almost agree with Crabapple Joe, Mike Vick helped run Dan Reeves out of town. But, Ken Strickland you made some very good points. I heard Dan Reeves on the Buck and Kincade show talk about MV7 breaking his leg. Reeves stated that he told Mike that he needed to play against a tougher D-fense to get better. Baltimore as usual had one of the best. Reeves said he told MV7 do not run around just get rid of the ball. He said after the first series the team went 3 and out and the fans booed, Mike want to do something exciting then he tried to run the ball on the next series then he broke his leg. When Mike was almost recovered from the broken leg Dan Reeves kept saying that MV7 a very young QB need to get in some work, some real game experience to get better. MV7 refused to play for him, but right after Reeves resigned MV7 came back and played. I believed he helped run Dan Reeves out of town, I also think that Arthur Blank did no want a coach the he could not control. It is well documented the Mr. Blank is a meddler. I don’t see old school coach Dan Reeves letting anyone even the owner meddling. Chuck Smith said that Dan Reeves use to tell them It is my way or the highway and that is the way it should be the coach has to be in control.

By MWC

December 26, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Yo bigeasy…Props, good post. Ken S is still a JACKA$$!!!

By MWC

December 26, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Yeah. I’m old. and don’t say much. So listen up poop,VS, VS 2 strap,and other ingrates… Do you want Hecker,Brocklin,M Campbell,ETC,ETC…Do you want utopia??? Do you want Randy Johnson, Bob Berry,Lee,Bart,ETC,ETC… YOU GUYS ARE A BUNCH OF … WHAT A PILE OF CRYBABYS!!! Did you A/HOLES notice THE FALCONS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS..not suppose to be.OMG!!! CAN’T YOU JUST ENJOY IT AND STOP THE SH???!!! IS it really that hard? I grew up in DOWNTOWN ATL… So don’t tell me the way it is. yeah, I,m pi$$ off at the racict with the AJC, so until we get a new paper, I have to deal with it. [ my family and close friend have,had worked for the AJC since the 60’s] food for thought… PEACE

By Pyscho-Analyzer

December 26, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

It’s interesting how many people respond to bloggers like VicK Supper 2, and others like them. They live through other people as supporters/defenders/etc. These people have a psychological connection to their hero, inserting themselves into the discussion/argument of their heroes as if they must protect them. They don’t understand why they have this need, usually loners, followers, sometimes even to the level of stalking their heroes. The best way to eliminate a confrontation is to ignore what they say.

By Because It Matters

December 26, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Well the blog started off positive. The Falcons are hoing to the playoffs and we should be looking forward, not backwards. Yet here we are and the second half of the blog has gone down hill bringing up history.

Let’s follow the election results and Turn The Page.

crabapplejoe, you had a semisolid point with your NGBAQ, point, but you made it in an offensive way and it was incomplete. Athletic quarterback types are not just African-American, there are just more of them.

You should’ve mentioned quarterbacks such as Eric Crouch, or this year’s model Tim Tebow who some are saying is a 1st round pick in the NFL…lol!

As some have said earlier, you can make your point, as in beware the “athletic” quarterback types, without being racist(like including the white ones who fit the description).

The Falcons have given us a great Christmas present and are about to add a lovely New Years gift as well. Let’s focus our positive energy on that.

Go Falcons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Because It Matters

December 26, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Dan Reeves has the right man at the right time. He came and gave the franchise instant credibility. No hire since then, even the, so far, graet hires of TD, and Coach Smith. Arthur Blank bought the teaaam but had no credibility, in fact, until this season, many here questioned whether he was as bad as the Smith’s or not. Dan Reeves is as solid a football guy as there is and his record proves, Super Bowls notwithstanding.

Funny to seeNajeh defending Coach Reeves, because he is a notorious coach-hata, who usually crusades to fire coaches who just take their teams to playoffs.

By crabapplejoe

December 26, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

By Because It Matters wrote: “You should’ve mentioned quarterbacks such as Eric Crouch, or this year’s model Tim Tebow who some are saying is a 1st round pick in the NFL…lol!” You too have a semisolid point, but the difference is that neither Eric Crouch nor Tim Tebow have taken a snap in the NFL. Indeed, had Crouch been black and not given a chance to be a QB in the NFL after winning the Heisman there would have been hell to pay. You see it has to be the Next Great Athletic Black Quarterback. Already they are talking about Tim Tebow moving to H-back or tight end in the NFL….my point exactly.

By Boo Boo

December 27, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

Exactly Because It Matters

The Falcon franchise was seen as a loser front office and ownership that big name coaches repeatedly declined an opportunity to coach in Atlanta (Dick Vermiel, Terry Donahue, Bill Parcells, and even Dan Reeves). The change of ownership to Blank, with his subsequent firing of a coaching legend, made everyone in the league see the situation here as “the same ole Falcons”. After Mora was fired, before Petrino was hired, Bill Cower said he did not want to smear his reputation here, as did Marty Schottenheimer (of course Marty would have pulled a Dan Reeves, but Blank wanted a babysitter for Vick). Dan Reeves coming to Atlanta, in full control, was what the team needed. But then, typical of the Smiths, they screwed everything up by selling to Blank, which changed the Reeves setup.

Everything now is okay, as there is a return to the feel of Eddie LeBaron and Leeman Bennett. Now, as long as Arthur Blank doesn’t get impatient and see that the team is still in the rebuilding mode, and use the, “I think we have reached a plateau” excuse for canning Dimitroff and Smith, we might be okay.