Falcons

By Marcus

December 29, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

DOL, Quick question: Seems like M. Ryan’s play has tailed off (by virtue of 50% or less completion rate and a couple of INTs in 2 of those last 3 games), even though we won. What’s up? Rookie wall? Better defense (TB and MIN)?Craftier schemes? Do we have a legit worry in this playoff game?

By TheManMike

December 29, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Marcus,

I would say that the slight decline in play of Ryan may have come from two fronts. #1 being the game where he lept head first into the end zone and dropped the ball. He knows whats at stake and is, at times, trying to carry a heavy load. I think he has held off a bit since that play, which could have really caused some damage, i think he knows hes lucky to have gotten up from that. #2 Its been a long hard fought first FULL season for Ryan. We clinched a playoff spot over a week ago and i think Ryan has been advised to take it easier going into the Playoffs….Now is NOT the time for injuries! But, i feel we will rush rush rush rush until we hit the wall, but i think Ryan will shine. I feel a big game for him coming. It always seems to come in turns for these falcons players, doesnt it?

Vick Supporter,

I’m sure even Vick is rooting for the Falcons right now. So, your all alone….30-13 sounds about right, but i disagree with who you have given those points to. I think we walk into Arizona and smother this Cards team like hashbrowns on the stovetop at WaHo!

GO FALCONS!!!

By Archie

December 29, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

Falcons need to force more turnovers than they have done lately. Passing teams thrive on momentum, the only way to turn that is with a few timely turnovers and not turn the ball back over to them when you’re on offense. When the Falcons played their best this season, they were running the ball, passing for first downs and not turning it over. They won’t last too long playing the way they have the last few weeks.

By lfp6

December 29, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Personally, our guys need to shape up for saturday. We’ve been lucky not to lose with all the turnovers we are coughing up.

We also need to control the clock; the past two weeks our opponents have held the ball longer in both games, and that has to change.

By Excited but Nervous

December 29, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

This game makes me a little nervous because most so-called experts and Regular Joe fans, outside of Arizona, believe that the Falcons should win this game. The team overlooked St. Louis and nearly blew yesterday’s game, which could have been huge had Carolina missed that last second field goal. If Atlanta goes in guns ablazing and play like they have played all year long, they should win, but if they lose focus, with over confidence, that score that the “Vick supporter” listed could be a reality.

By Bill

December 29, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Falcons 35 Cards 17

By sickfan

December 29, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

What is the injury situation with Malloy and Abraham? Those two guys are huge on defense. If we can control Arizona’s offense -24 or less points, we win this game easily. I suspect, however, that the game will be tight. And yes Ryan might be hitting a rookie wall. Come on Matt, pull through for the last few games.

By Bill

December 29, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Falcons 35 Cards 17

By mountain_jim

December 29, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Ryan has been ‘off’ jwith his passing accuracy and decision making the last few games. He needs to play better, and the pass rush needs to be much better or Atlanta will not win this game.

By Steamingdoogle

December 29, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Hey Falcon fans,a Cards fan here. Must say I am very impressed with everything about your team & coachs.I’m happy for you guys.No telling how this game turns out,nothing would surprise me except us winning big.

By Arizona Falcon

December 29, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Just got my tickets to the game Saturday and I looking forward to the Falcons move to the second round. Keys to the win…pressure on Warner….Cardinals have had problems with the good teams….Falcons should be able to run the ball…Defense should not have much to worry in the running game from Cards…Go Falcons…How sweet it is!!!!!

By Nick-of-time

December 29, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Ryan has slowed down some in the last few games. So what! He has helped bring us much father than we ever expected! This off-season he will be able to concentrate even more on technique and conditioning along with his study/review of the offense. Consequently, he will be an even better performer next year with a stronger team. Dynasty in the making? Yes!

By Nick-of-time

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

For the record: “farther”. One of those mistakes the spell checker lets you make.

By mr Lucky7

December 29, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

it comes down to if we score first and then slow them up we can control the game with the run if it comes down to playing from behind we will not win a throw down

By Nick-of-time

December 29, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Ask Dallas, New England, Chicago, Tampa Bay, Jets, et al, if they would settle for one-and-out in the play offs instead of going home and doing honey-do(s) and what all, instead. We made it to the dance and have our best chance at a first-round win. Be happy!

By deac

December 29, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

VS- You mean when Giants beat the Cardinals 37-29 in week 13? Is that what you were remembering when you recalled that AZ they beat the Giants “handily”?

By JayRoot!

December 29, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

We’re Done we won’t be able to stop Kurt Warner!!

By Brian F.

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

Yes !!!!!!! Finally a REAL quarterback leading us into the playoffs that actually has the ability to audible to get us out of bad plays. You can’t just be a glorified running back and expect to lead your team to the Super Bowl. Now we have a real legitimate chance because we finally have a real legitimate QUARTERBACK !!! It is so much fun to watch a DYNASTY in the making !! Go Birds !!

By mark

December 29, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

hello falcon fans. the last couple of weeks we lost our running game but now found it with Edge again. We were in sync yesterday concerning our offense. watch out as we get ready to shock the NFL world. mark, gilbert, az

By SRF

December 29, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Somebody asked “So what if Ryan is slowing down…”

Dude this is the playoffs - you have to go out and win it.

Ryan looked terrible yesterday - he was so far off target on a few balls it makes me wonder if he knocked his vision blurry when he landed on his head last week.

He used to be very accurate with each pass, even when there was an incompletion - it used to be very close.

His passes were sailing high and wide - must be a mechanical flaw - maybe he was feeling pressure around him and not following through ?

I am glad he is the QB - BUT he has to throw better than that.

I think that Turner is the Team MVP - nothing against Ryan or White - but Turner is lights out.

By Nick-of-time

December 29, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

I have never seen the likes of how people can take what is said on here totally out of context and/or place it in their context in order to lead into their line of “thought”, or to make their point. As a result, it is almost impossible to have a real exchange of ideas or conversation on here. Good luck DOL. You HAVE to do this. Fortunately, I don’t.

By Ryder

December 29, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

I won’t even begin to entertain the rants of a delusional Falcon hater like that individual who stated Arizona would win 30 to 13.

In the playoffs teams win by running the football. Arizona had a season high in rushing against one of the worst defenses in football yesterday in Seattle.

FACT: Atlanta ain’t Seattle, and they will be able to contain both James and Hightower. Remember Arizona is 32nd in the league in rushing, and in January you have to rush the ball to keep defenses off course.

FACT: Atlanta was second in the league in rushing and will use both Turner and their gamebreaker Jerious Norwood, who will keep Arizona on their toes on third downs.

I’m not concerned about Ryan’s recent struggles. Come playoff time he will get into a groove early against their secondary.

Should Lawyer Milloy play the passing game of the Cardinals won’t be as much of a threat, especially with Abraham breathing down Warner’s neck.

I expect this to be an exciting game, with Atlanta winning 24-20.

Oh, I will say one thing to the delusional Falcon hater, didn’t Minnesota whip Arizona in their own home by a QB who can’t even throw very well? What do you think Matt Ryan is going to do to them

By Nativefan

December 29, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Falcons will win. The best part about this team is watching them respond to mistakes…It’s called TEAM and got the Patriots, Steelers, and NYG to Super Bowls. Matt Ryan will be fine he has a TEAM supporting him….This is the new Falcons.

By Peachtree John

December 29, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

This has been a frustrating year. ALLRIGHT on the wins; that is great. I find myself yelling at the TV again. In the recent past, that would not have happened because the Falcons were so bad. Where are the take-a-ways? Our Falcons must learn to intercept passes and the playoffs are a “too late” situation for that to happen. Maybe next year. Go Falcons. We will hold our collective breaths once again.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

December 29, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

I’m nervously excited, but it’s supposed to be that way IMO. Nothing beats making the playoffs ESPECIALLY after what this team went through last year. Win or lose, this has been a great season

I promised myself I wouldn’t do this and hopefully it will be my only time but, its a dam shame some people are hopelessly addicted to the past and try and rain on this parade with nonsense. It just goes to show how far the human race has to go… It is a sad commentary to our race of people that some folks will ALWAYS get a kick out of spreading ill-will and then be like- “what? what did I say?” when they know dam well what they’re doing. I liked YKW as much as anyone and everyone that knows me knows this but he is not coming back so whats the point? Matt Ryan is doing better than anyone could have expected and there are teams like the Highly touted Cowboys with 13 pro-bowlers on the team that WISH they were in our position. I remember in ‘05 when everyone said the Falcons would be lucky to be at .500 the first half of their schedule because it was so tough and then they’ll be okay cause the 2nd half of their schedule was easy and what happened? They went 6-2 the first half and 2-6 the 2nd half with YKW at the helm. So stop with the easy schedule dung. That same easy schedule had nearly every analyst in the country saying we’d be 1-15 if I remember correctly. Your obsession is scary. Easy schedule or not, NO ONE thought the Falconswould be where they are and its a great day to be a FALCON fan now and for the future- not the past. Seeing attention mongers clutter this blog with senseless drivel just to get a kick out of trying to down the Birds at every turn or antagonize people than deny it is pathetic. Every time they win, it’s luck or easy schedule this and that. Every time they lose its haha told ya so. Plus why the heck you try to pretend you care whether our hearts get smashed or not? No one asked you to so stop. You’re on here every other day predicting (and you know who I’m talking to-I’m not even giving you the respect of typing your screen name), no check that- wishing doom on the Falcons and then try to cover up with weak ish like “I said if they win good for them” Stop talking out of both sides of your neck dude. Everyone here watches the games, they know what Ryan has or hasn’t been doing, what makes you think they need you to explain it? If people want to have hope for their favorite team or player let them. Its hilarious how you bash people for believing in what or who they want to then spend the rest of the time trying to correct people and say “I didn’t say that or you must have not read my post” all day but its okay for you to do the same for the so-called Great one? You are the one that is funny. “And funny faux paux, not funny ha ha…”

As much as enjoyed watching YKW play here and hopes he gets his life back together for we all make mistakes, people like you make me wish he never EVER played football. No man should ever worship another man like that EVER.

You’re worse than the Vick-haters dude.

GO FALCONS!!

By jeanE

December 29, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

We can beat these guys, we have a better record than they do! They will get some passing yards, no doubt, but we can gash them with our running game and control the clock. I like our chances! Matt Ryan has GOT to stop giving the ball to the other team!! His rookiness is showing late in the season! We really did miss Lawyer, it was glaringly obvious, hope he can play saturday, we need his hard hitting and his leadership. Did anyone notice how we didn’t miss #98 one bit, how sad is that? Oh & Mike Mularkey, if some other team is stupid enough to take you on, by all means, don’t let the door hit you on the way out of town, dude!!

By ASU Sundevil

December 29, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Ryan is going to feel the pressure of the second season, will be a hard fought game but i dont think the falcons d is going to be able to contain the three headed monster of Boldin, Fitz, and breaston. Watch out for A-dub he will be gunning for ryan. good luck

cards 34 falcons21

By Singletary

December 29, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

I highly recommend the current Peter King missive about the best 16 minutes of the season. I doubt I’ll ever forget those four minutes when I thought we might have the div. crown.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/12/29/Week17/index.html#?eref=T1

Let’s keep this in perspective: We were 4-12. We are now 11-5 and in the playoffs. If we win, I’ll enjoy it. If we lose (whether now, next week, etc,) I’ll be sad … but, unlike last year, I know we have a solid future.

Go Falcons. You can beat the Desert Red Birds, particularly if Lawyer Milloy can play.

By Drago

December 29, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

I’ll take Ryan’s supposed return to being a mortal (and going 6-2 final 8 games and making the playoffs) vs. El Foldo we saw in 2005 and 2006 when Falcons started 6-2 and went in the tank after teams figured out how to shut down the “Gamebreaker,” or should we say “Heartbreaker.” Those who fail to respect the past are doomed to repeat it and we have moved beyond the past…

By Ryan Rooter

December 29, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Do you brain-deads think that Matt just said to himself a couple of weeks back, “I think I’ll be less effective”? Did it ever occur to you the kid might be gassed? He started last spring and worked hard through the summer. Now, he is in to the longest season of his life. He expends a lot of energy. He has taken 99% of the offensive snaps. He runs up and down the line shouting out audibles. On the sideline he studies photographs trying to beat the defense. Give him a break for Christ’s sake! He’ll be fine and he’ll get better. Wish I could say the same for y’all.

By monty

December 29, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan needs to play better Saturday. He needs to dial in his accuracy(too many overthrows Sunday.) Usually they get picked off. He was fortunate. He missed a couple of throws for TD’s too. We have to put prssure on their QB but it will be hard because they throw alot of rythm passes. Reguardless of outcome this has been a great year!

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 29, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

If the Falcons stick to the running game, control the clock, and keep Kurt Warner off the field, and John Abraham can get pressure on Warner when he is on the field, they can win this game.

If the Falcons can’t pressure Warner, and they let him sit in the pocket and pick apart their secondary, the game will become a shootout, the Falcons will be forced to abandon the running game, and chances are Arizona will win. As effective as Ryan has been at times this season, he has struggled lately and the Cardinals do have a cornerback in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie who is physical enough to cover Roddy White one on one. I don’t think the Falcons’ passing game has what it takes to keep up with Arizona in a shootout type of contest.

I think the Falcons will win because Arizona can’t run the ball and can’t do much on defense other than rush the passer. That plays into the Falcons’ hands as a run-first team whose best defensive player is a pass rusher. I think the Falcons should be successful running the football and Abraham will have plenty of chances to get to Warner and force turnovers, since the Cardinals will be throwing a lot. Abraham’s health will make or break the Falcons’ chances in this game.

By Jimmy

December 29, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

VS and VS2(or are you the same?),

Why do you continue to bash Matt Ryan and the Falcons?? I don’t frequent this blog as much as I use to, so I might have missed something, but your game seems pretty lame.

The difference between MV7 and Ryan isn’t the “measureables,” ie how far they can throw a football, height, weight, 40 time, etc. The one huge difference is(and I know you’ve heard this one before) the “IT” factor.

I have no idea what the “IT” is, but Ryan has it. Of course he’s been helped by the tremendous run game of ‘Burner,’ but didn’t MV7 have that back in the day w/ Warrck Dunn and that other big dude(his name escapes me now, played at Mich. St.) Along w/ MV7, those three helped lead the Falcons lead the leauge in rushing a few times.

What MV7 doesn’t have is the BELIEF of his teammates that he will lead them out of tough situations when it comes down to it. He’s had his head in the playbook from day one, shows up to work on time and doesn’t mess around outside of the football field. He puts his heart and soul into this team and expects the same from his teammates. He doesn’t hang out w/ his “boys” doing Godknowswhat(we all know what that is).

The difference isn’t the types of throws they can make. Vick had all the potential to be a great QB, the difference is one is a true professional and one isn’t. I’ll let you decide which one is which.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 29, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

“Of course he’s been helped by the tremendous run game of ‘Burner,’ but didn’t MV7 have that back in the day w/ Warrck Dunn and that other big dude(his name escapes me now, played at Mich. St.) Along w/ MV7, those three helped lead the Falcons lead the leauge in rushing a few times.”

You are referring to TJ Duckett, the current 3rd-string running back for the Seattle Seahawks. The Falcons led the league in rushing in large part because of a) the yardage Vick picked up on the ground and b) the extra room that Dunn, Duckett, Norwood, etc. had to run because a defender had to account for Vick faking the bootleg action. Vick was such a huge part of that rushing attack that without Vick in the lineup, the Falcons were 14th in the league in rushing in 2003, and 26th in the league in rushing last year. More importantly, since it relied so much on misdirection and gimmicks that rushing attack was not reliable in short yardage situations when the defense was expecting the run. The rushing attack this year is a lot more conventional and reliable and works much better in crunch time.

“What MV7 doesn’t have is the BELIEF of his teammates that he will lead them out of tough situations when it comes down to it. “

Huh? From 2002-2007 the Falcons were 38-28-1 with Vick, 6-23 without him. What is this “belief” you’re talking about?

By Fred B.

December 29, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

D Led just got word the 2009 sechedules have been released. Have you heard anything about that?

By Vick Supporter

December 29, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

*@Darrin “The Vent King” *

Look man, I can defend whoever the f I want, first off. Second, don’t get p** at me because I’m not on the “bandwagon” again like you are. I give props to the Falcons, so I guess big man “Darrin”, LMAO, says I need to stop, then I should stop voicing my opinion…..HELL NO. I see people all the time on here calling Vick every racial name in the book, but I forgot, thats OK, right? If I say the Falcons are gonna get their asses beat, then thats my opinion, people go at me ALL THE F’IN TIME AND I’M NOT CRYING AROUND LIKE YOUR LITTLE “GIRLIE (IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN) arse. Man, you’re a waste of time, you need to take that “Vent King” off your name cause you’re lame.

Happy New Year :) Vick Supporter

P.S. Vick 09, Redemption is near, Vickuary 20th 2009, and everything else that I say that you don’t like. Put that in your meth pipe and smoke it.

By Drago

December 29, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan. The Present. The Future.

Deal with it ;-)

Also, didn’t we whip the Cards with Boldin and Fitzgerald in 2006? Same game we knocked out Warner and it was supposedly the passing of the torch to Leinart. And gee, wasn’t that the game someone threw an INT that was returned 98 yards for a TD and that someone made a half-assed effort to tackle the Cardinal player who intercepted the ill-fated pass? That was truly the beginning of the end for the “Heartbreaker.”

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

December 29, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

Ryan’s play has dipped at the end of the season. We asked Coach Mike Smith about it and he said that he hasn’t noticed a different.

Ryan has not thrown for over 200 yards in the last two games after stringing together nine straight 200-plus yard games. Also, he’s had six picks over the last five games.

By Vick Supporter

December 29, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Ryan’s numbers have dipped because, as with all NFL QBs except a few, the NFL isn’t surprised by him anymore. They’re finding his weaknesses, just like everyone else. Thats why I say to wait a few seasons before you “annoint him as the next Montana”. Is that so bad? To wait until a player proves himself before you start saying words like “dynasty” and all the other BS? Damn

By Drago

December 29, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Gee, weren’t people saying Michael Turner was a fluke because he had two games back to back (Chicago and Philly) with sub-60 yards?

By Jimmy

December 29, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Poop,

You are correct on the record w/ Vick from 02-07. Most of those players are gone now, as is his buddy Jimmy Mora. He lead us to one playoff win at GB, as impressive as it was, and that was it, in how many years?? Now I know youre thinking, what has Ryan done in the playoffs? Nothing yet, but to come in as a rookie and do what he’s done, leads me to believe he’s going to be pretty special. He’s already making the throws that MV7 couldn’t in how many years?? MV7 relied on his God given talent, nothing else.

VS, you are also correct in that we have to wait a few years to figure out if Ryan will be all that. We’re all just giving our opinions based on what we’ve seen of “Ryan Leaf” based on his rookie year. In MY opinion, MV7 regressed every year he was here. Maybe a lot of that had to do w/ his teammates, and his off the field crap, but nonetheless if you can’t make basic 15 yard outs at the less than 90MPH he tried in 5+ years, well it just aint getting done. Ryan will only get better w/ time because he’ll put in his time in the VIDEO room doing his homework, and will rely less on his Godgiven abilities, unlike MV7. These are just my opinions of course. I’m no more of an expert than you are, but when you call Ryan the next “Ryan Leaf” its obvious youre just trying to get under peoples skin.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 29, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

“Davenpoop for brains”? Is that the full extent of your creativity? You know “Najeh Davenpoop” is not my real name, right?

I don’t need to defend Vick — the Falcons’ record with him and without him during his time here speaks for itself. No, I don’t blame Vick for the Falcons’ shortcomings in 2005 and 2006. I don’t blame the wide receivers, offensive line, or any of the other players either. That fell entirely on poor coaching, 100%. It took a new coach, new GM, and an overhaul of half the roster to make the Falcons competitive again. That should tell you all you need to know, although judging from your post, I kinda doubt you have the mental capacity to understand what that means.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 29, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Just to be clear, my above post was in response to Tower of Power, not you Jimmy.

By Flounder

December 29, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Are you guys playing cards?

By Icthyologist

December 29, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

You give new meaning to the term “flat as a flounder”.

By Jimmy

December 29, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

Poop, I know your comments were not intended for me. It’s all good. I’m still waiting for VS’s response. His post a few before mine almost seemed intelligent, unlike the crap he’s been posting here for weeks about “Ryan Leaf” being a bust and all. BTW, is Najeh Davenport still playing these days? He was the kind of player I enjoyed watching. He brought his hard hat to work every game. I’m assuming that’s where you got your name from, anyway.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 29, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Yeah, my screen name is a reference to Davenport’s little off-field incident in college. Last I checked the Colts signed him up because they were running low on RBs, but I don’t know if he’s still on their roster.

By PeterMsp

December 29, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget to email Bobby Petrino and thank him for leaving.

rpetrino@uark.edu

By D.Ellis

December 30, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

Playoffs

2008 and counting

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

By falcon willie

December 30, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

BET ON RYAN2 HE IS DUE!!!

By Singletary

December 30, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Oh, come on. Najeh Davenpoop and Ken Strickland are two of the more reasoned, seasoned supporters of this blog commentary. I find their input information-filled and not hate inspired. Do I agree with them all the time? NO. Do I enjoy their posts? YES! Are they objective? YES, Are some people on this blog intolerant? Clearly.

There is a lot of room for “caucasians” to adore MV7’s play, yet reject his descent into illegal activities and the aftermath. I found myself advocating for hunting (a la Jerious Norwood & Keith Brooking) in a NE nightspot. On the same night, I defended Michael Vick’s possibility of returning to the NFL to a PETA volunteer by pointing out that if the NFL Commissioner allowed PACman Jones back in, he could hardly stand in the way of MV7’s possible economic expectations in the NFL. Goodell cannot be perceived as unfair here or he may be socked with a interference with contract or other lawsuit. This is America. We give second chances to those who serve their time and who are penitent. Have you seen the statements by the president of PETA re Vick after their meetings?

Am I thrilled with the Falcons this year?YES. Do I want MV7 back? That is a business decision AB must make.

All that being said, can we please focus on the Xs and 0s necessary to defeat AZ.

By Russ

December 30, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Only 5 of 16 games this season were against teams with losing records, so I don’t know where some of you are getting that that Falcons had an easy schedule this year.

Falcons 27 Cardinals 23

By Rufio

December 30, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

I guess I don’t really understand the need to continually support Vick on this blog. This is a Falcons blog. We support the current team. The defenders of the inmate are not Falcons fans. Don’t take it personal that he’s not on the team anymore. We, as fans, didn’t personally kick him off the team, the dude’s in jail. So we move on. He was good, if nothing else for entertainment sake alone, and for putting fans in the stand. He was definitely fun to watch, but nerve racking and frustrating at times as well. But to continually come on here is nothing more than an attempt to get off on starting arguments. You aren’t here to discuss the falcons, or football even. It’s kinda pathetic and I feel sorry for you. I shutter to think of the kind of letters and things you are sending this man in jail. Leave him alone.

While Ryan has been down a little towards this end of the season I wouldn’t say defenses are figuring him out. That is spoken by a person that doesn’t watch the games but only reads the boxscore. His Int’s of late have been underthrown balls and tips. Mistakes, yes, but not due to a brilliant defensive scheme.

By blog newbie

December 30, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

I’ve never been on this blog before but came here looking for tips for my fantasy football team. Most of the posts that are actually about football are interesting and insightful. Every post that mentions race or Michael Vick — good or bad — is pitiful. You guys need to move on. Nick-of-time had the right idea.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

December 30, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Now on to better things-

Congratulations Matt Ryan- NFL’s ROOKIE OF THE YEAR! Way to go!

GO FALCONS!!

By D.Ellis

December 30, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Atlanta Falcons 2008 Playoffs!!!!!!!….thats harder to type and even harder to read!!!!!!!

2008 PLAYOFFS!!!!!

Matt Ryan 2008 Offensive Rookie of the Year!!!!!!!!!

What a great season to be a Falcon Fan!!!

By TheHitIsComing

December 30, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

We’ll take care of Ryan. All it takes is one hit from Pro Bowl Adrian Wilson, and you will be begging Vick is back.

lights out

Go Cardinals

By Tommy

December 30, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Ryan’s numbers declined the last 3 weeks for a couple reasons.

First, the Falcons played two of the best defenses in the NFC [Tampa and Minnesota] and a team with nothing to lose trying to save its coach [St. Louis].

But more importantly, teams have figured out the Falcons’ system. The Ryan roll-out to a TE or to an underneath receiver has almost gone away over the last month. That is due to defenses flaring out linebackers or playing high-low with a safety and a corner, allowing the CB to jump the route. As a result Ryan has had to throw accross the middle more, and midfield passing routes are always a bigger risk for an INT.

Ryan didn’t look prepared Sunday for the first time all year, but it’s a good sign when your QB can have an off day and you still win.

PS—I used to live in DC and worked on Capitol Hill. ‘Vick Supporter 2’s’ rants remind me of the crackpots that would mail in letters written on shoe box lids, ranting about the U.N. or the Kennedy assasination. Dude, give it a rest already

By Drago

December 30, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Matt Ryan, NFL Rookie of the Year! The Present. The Future.

And congrats to Roddy White and Michael Turner for Pro Bowl. Well deserved. Abe and Matt Koenen should be there too.

And a big THANK YOU to Arthur Blank, Thomas Dimitroff, and Mike Smith for turning this team around in 1 year. It appears for the first time in a long time we are headed in the right direction.

Here’s to the “Process.”

By Space Mountain

December 30, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

2008 Rookie of the Year = Matt Ryan. It is nice to see an individual and a TEAM reach their full potential instead of throwing it all away. In this day and age with all the me first people it really is a joy to watch this TEAM not only grow but actually blossom. They have set the bar high for themselves next year but I have every confidence in them that they will achieve all the individual and TEAM goals they set for themselves. It has been one heckuva year and I am so proud of the entire organization. Now on to Arizona and lets show them who the real big birds are. GO FALCONS!!!!!

By Drago

December 30, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan. The Present. The Future.

Matt Ryan is more than the face of the sensational turnaround by the Atlanta Falcons. He also is the best member of a superb rookie crop, earning The Associated Press 2008 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award Tuesday. The quarterback from Boston College, selected third overall in April’s draft, was a landslide winner in balloting by a nationwide panel of 50 sports writers and broadcasters who cover the league. Ryan became the third quarterback in five years to win the award; before that, no QB ever took the honor.

Ryan ranked 11th in passer rating at 87.7 and had 16 touchdowns to go with 11 interceptions. But it wasn’t the numbers as much as his command of the huddle and his cool under pressure that impressed his teammates, opponents — and the voters.

By D.Ellis

December 30, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Actually the team that the Falcons beat in the first round of the playoffs in 2004 was the Rams and they finished the season 8-8 and 9-9 over all. Score was 47-17

I wouldn’t think any real Falcon fan is or will be fooled by Turner’s stats. If and that is a big if the Falcons make it to the NFCCG and Turner keeps his pace he very well could be NFL MVP. Ryan is ROY and TURNER is a legit MVP candidate.

If a bust is a bust is a bust equals the 2008 playoffs/NFL ROY/and 11 wins. I’ll take that bust is a bust is a bust All day long!!!!

GO FALCONS!!!!!!

By Darrin "The Vent King"

December 30, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Supporter lets call this a truce okay? If I mistakenly took you and VS2 for being the same person my bad 4 real dude. I mean that. As far as Blank goes, I believe just like Ted Turner did back in the day with the Braves, he learned from his mistakes in trying to make all the sports related decisions himself trying to make a splash and went a different route. I know all the things bad that go on here come from both sides, but also believe WE can ignore that and not have call it “backing down”. I believe that was what MLK was trying to teach us all. It is just a waste of time IMO. If you must, you must but I believe they are better things to talk about but that’s me- do you. Again, let’s end this- it’s not worth it. I will no longer come at you like that for true like you said you have a right to say what you want, I just feel bad for you that you have to muddle in all that even if being attacked by hate-agenda having people first for still believing in MV7. I believed in Vick just as I believed in Bartkowski and now in Matt Ryan. I don’t believe Blank purposely didn’t realize the decisions he was making were to screw Vick over, you may but hey you have a right to believe what you want. I think Blank, like you and a lot of people including myself at the time thought Vick’s talents were so off the chart that it would be all that was needed. He learned as well as I re-learned that this is a team sport and it does take a team to do it and the people around him now are the ones who knew football enough to tell him that. Again I think that was a honest mistake because many were caught up in the Vick Experience. So apologies my brother to you, your brother, and family from Ireland. Keep ya head up!

GO FALCONS!!

By Stephen

December 30, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

CONGRATS TO MATT RYAN…just named NFL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!!! GO FALCONS!!!

By JJB

December 30, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to Matt Ryan, Offensive Rookie of the Year!

On to Vick Supporter. You have been a good poster and I enjoy the spirit that you have. One mistake, I believe the VS2 does inject race into his/her rants. They are done when VS2 lists players that VS2 likes and would keep on the team. To a man, they are all black. Never a player of another flavor. Since this poster does it at least one time per week, I must assume that he/she is injecting race into the discussion.

By Vick Supporter

December 30, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

@mr charlie

Who said Dan reeves wasn’t a great coach? Nevermind, not even going to entertain you.

By Vick Supporter

December 30, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

@JJB

If I’m such a good poster, why am i constantly attacked with racial terms and just straight up hate? Can u give me an answer? No one even calls me by my user name on here. Its always VickJockSniffer and dumb BS like that. Will you honestly answer that? Will anyone? Also, if anyone wants to debate with me about football, I’m game, I can hold my own with anyone

By Space Mountain

December 30, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Do you give the birds a chance against Arizona?

By Vanilla Vick

December 30, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

First stop for Matt Ryan: 11-5 Next stop: Rookie of the Year Final stop: Super Bowl MVP

Who’s on board?!

By The Anti-Vick

December 30, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Matt Ryan and the Falcons for an incredible season!

By Confused Again

December 30, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Why is Flacco more of an acceptable QB than Ryan? Is it because he didn’t steal Mike Vick’s job? Is it because he was drafted later in the first round? Is it because he wears purple? I bet its that last one you nancy.

By Space Mountain

December 30, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

HATING ON MATT RYAN BECAUSE HE IS SUCCESSFUL MEANS YOU ARE JEALOUS

By jsmooth

December 30, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

I have a question for the blog. Now that the falcons are in the playoffs, do you think that they can break there back to back winning seasons curse??

In there existence in Atlanta, it has never happened. I believe that if they can do it with Ryan, he will be the best quarterback that we have had hands down. Just something that simple is good enough for me. I mean I will be elated if we can make it to the Superbowl and win! I would probably do flips.

But in 42 years of football, we have never had consecutive winning seasons. That would be the defining statement that would be associated with MR2. MV7 couldn’t do it, and a laundry list of others couldn’t do it either.

By True Falcon

December 30, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Three things I LOVE about our new QB:

1) Over 60% completions AS A ROOKIE because he is smart enough to read defenses

2) Leadership skills. Never have caught him sitting by himself on the end of the bench (or by the heater) while the D is on

3) He doesn’t kill dogs, give women herpes, go by an alias, lie to his bosses’ faces, carry illegal water bottles through airports…

Need we continue? Folks, we are lucky enough to have ourselves a WINNER! A bona fide leader at the most important position. Already has more fourth quarter comebacks than we had over the last four years. That says something no matter what color your sunglasses are.

By Space Mountain

December 30, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

I believe our time has come. I believe we are looking at the making of a dynasty. We already have a balanced top 10 offense and if we draft good again in 09 to build a top ten defense the sky is the limit. The formula is proven that if you get good consistent play at the quarterback position over the span of 5 to 10 years you are almost guaranteed to have a winner (Philly with Mcnabb/ Indy with Payton/ New England with Brady). Couple that with a top flight defense and the championships will come. We have paid our dues. Now we need a SUPER Defense to complete the journey.

By jsmooth

December 30, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

I am just trying to get a jump on the conversation for next September. I know that this will be the question of the year next year. Will he be able to get the us the second winning season that no other quarterback has been able to.

By Drago

December 30, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

You gotta think Milloy and Abraham would not miss this for the world…

By The Anti-Vick

December 30, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Wow. Complete sentences:

Ryan remained steady throughout the season while completing 265-of-434 passes for 3,440 yards, 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

Ryan gives credit to his receivers and pass protection for the gaudy numbers.

“It helps in terms of my development to have receivers with the capability of Roddy (White) and Mike Jenkins,” Ryan said. “We’ve got a lot of talent on the offensive side of the ball and a lot of guys who can make plays.”

By Oh...do the stats lie?

December 30, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan - The average ranking of the defenses faced by Ryan - 20.125 Joe Flacco - The average ranking of the defenses faced by Flacco - 12.312 Ryan faced 4 playoff teams. Those teams have a combined record of 39-24-1. Flacco faced 6 playoff teams. Those teams have a combined record of 69-26-1 Ryan faced teams with a combined record of 88-119-1 (LOSING RECORD). A winning percentage of .420 Flacco faced teams with a combined record of 112-94-2. A winning percentage of .538 Flacco faced the Bengals, Browns, Raiders, and Jaguars (who have a combined 18 wins) Ryan (who faced the Raiders as well) faced the WINLESS Lions and TWO teams with 2 victories each (KC and St. Louis). Those teams have 9 total wins.

By TK

December 31, 2008 4:12 AM | Link to this

I would say that for the Falcons to win this they will need to be successful running the ball therefore keeping the Cards offense off the field.

By jsmooth

December 31, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

A QUESTION FOR THE BLOG:

WHAT WOULD YOU GO AFTER IN THE DRAFT FOR THE FALCONS????

By Mr Charlie

December 31, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

I think the Falcons need to draft for pass Defense.

The priorities are a corner, pass rusher and a safety. We need some D back help, which is Dimtroffs specialty.

If they can pick up another playmaker on Offense, a Wes Welker type, in the later rounds, great, otherwise they are set on Offense.

When has anyone ever said that about the Falcons?

By D.Ellis

December 31, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Jsmooth-I would go after the best available Defensive player no matter what spot….first up LB or S.

If the D is not built from the draft and built through FA, I would go after the best TE on the board. Adding another weapon for MR to throw to would be nice….but LB and S needs to be addressed….but the thought of adding another weapon underneath with the way we run playaction short passes to Peele would be nice….maybe the Kid from OU or Ok. State. Big/Good hands.

By mixxo

December 31, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Well said jsmooth! Props to you.

GO FALCONS!!!!!

By jsmooth

December 31, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

I think that we still struggle with our run defense. We still have difficulty stuffing the run. This was evident in our game with St. Louis. If we can pick up good and healthy Dline help we will be good.

Secondary is hurting too. Need a new safety and some fast corners. Defense needs to be the focus for this draft class for Atlanta. Matt will mature and that in itself will make us more dangerous on offense.

If our defense can become more physical and stop rushing attacks, we will be a force to be reckoned with!

By jsmooth

December 31, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

I give up. When you start back talking about football let me know.

By Patchick

December 31, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

The battle of the BIRDS in the desert Arizona will win it in a nail biter. They have home field advantage and since they’ve had such a playoff drought - they’re overdue - that is if they show up and stay focused. They’ll have to establish a run game to allow Kurt Warner and receivers to do their thing. If they don’t, the falcons will be able to blitz and dominate the game defensively. Either way, neither of these teams are Superbowl bound - I wish I was wrong, I’d like to see either of them make it to the big dance. GO CARDS!