The Bird Babe

By crabapplejoe

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

FALCONS WIN IN OT!

Its all Brookings fault

Signed,

Stendec

By tex

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

Fumble at the goal line was horrible. How could they overrule the td when NO view showed the ball coming out on the 1?

By Realist

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

The Falcons are only 9-5 because of Michael Turner and the improved, beefed up O-line (that doesn’t have to starve itself anymore like Alex Gibbs demanded).

By Great Falconi

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

Good enough to win. I’ll take it.

Michael Turner gets big props today. He bailed Ryan out.

The defense was very solid. Yeah, yeah…Garcia didn’t play. So what? You play the hands you’re dealt. The Falcons really tried to give this game away, but that D wouldn’t let ‘em do it.

By johnsoncountyrednecks

December 14, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Go Falcons…..Great Win

By joey porter

December 14, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

You folks still want to name Matty Ice MVP?

Sorry Arse falcon fans.

By Dawgs2008

December 14, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

The Bucs are our Florida Gators. Nice to beat those low lifes.

By david

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

This wasnt the best way to win.Very nervous.But lets say past teams probably woulda lost.Now to the Idiot thats dogging Ryan.Hes not gonna play great every game.Without him we wouldnt even be in this situation.So you ask should Mat ryan be mvp??? I say HELL YEA RYAN MVP this year.You have issues..

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

No M.Turner = No Playofss. Matt Ryan = Draft Picks

By Roland

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

GOOD GRIEF!!!!!!!!!!!

The Falcons have become something that I did not thing they would be capable of without VICK. Become the most EXCITING FOOTBALL TEAM TO WATCH EVERY SUNDAY!!!!!!! MAN I AM STILL CLENCHED FROM THIS GAME.

THIS WAS A PLAYOFF WIN FOR SURE. Hats of to our DEFENSE. The old falcons even with Vick would have let Antonio Bryant destroy them along with Cadillac. Even last week against the NUMBER ONE OFFENSE IN THE LEAGUE it came down to the last few minutes and bad coaching for them to lose. HATS OFF TO THE ENTIRE TEAM THOUGH.

By Oh My

December 14, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Last week the defense was terrible and the offense was great. This week the offense had three turnovers that probably cost the falcons 14 points. This week the defense was outstanding. Once again, special teams are a problem. With the exception of field goal kicking the special teams show a new weakness each week.

Nonetheless, the Falcons won against a very good team when they didn’t play their best. That is a sign of a team that is maturing and regardless of what happens this year, that should bode well for next year. They need more pass rush next year and a kick returner. Until then, they are continually showing signs of being a really good team in the future.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Bfore the season began, Mark said he believed the Falcons would be jubilant with six victories. I predicted the team would win at least nine games and they did that today! They are a much better team now than they’ve been in the last seven years. Vick’s last year in the NFL they were 7-9. Dimitroff, Smith and everyone associated with the team has done a great job. We now have a real team. Losers, like Realist, seek to minimize the results but wins, even ugly ones, are something we’re getting accustomed to and negativity won’t change those wins to losses. Realist, tell yo momma I pick her tied a* up at ten.

By beki

December 14, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

I’ll take a win anyway it can be done. Ryan’s not always going to win with his arm but so long as he can lead the team -and run some- I’ll be happy.

By boxer99

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

Of course “convick supporter has to shed his negateive light. @convick supporter you need to take your jumbo lips off convicks c**!

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

@Roland

I guess The Great Mike Vick played defense too? Yeah, the defense was Vick’s fault,LMFAO..

By STLfalcon

December 14, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

All you Falcons haters -

Say whatever you want

9 wins guarantees a winning season. I don’t care if Matt Ryan poops ice cream and makes everyone eat it before the next game - 9 wins are 9 wins.

Just wait till next season, he’ll do what no quarterback in Atlanta has ever done -

Back to Back winning Seasons

All we wanted, all we could have hoped for in the offseason was to be competitive -

Now we hope to be competitive in the offseason

Even if this rollercoaster ride we’re all on is really just the log flume and we’re about to tank these last two games -

It feels good to be a Falcon’s fan

_Supporter, maybe you should back another horse.

GO FALCONS!!!!!!

By DHD

December 14, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

One of those games where we win despite getting no breaks. The only break in the game was recovering Ryan’s fumble. Bucs got all the other ones.

The division is not out of the question. If Denver can pull one out today, Carolina has the Giants and Saints on the road.

By falconsfan

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

Yes, Matt did not have the best game and threw 2 interceptions but he also threw the game winning touchdown that was fumbled prior to or just inside the end zone…we’ll never know from the camera angles. He also came up big in overtime by running for two first downs. League MVP is a bogus award but he has played as well as others being considered. Michael Turner and the Falcons offensive line deserve a look too. All that matters is wins and a Super Bowl. Any of you idiots making comments after a great win about individual awards should be locked up because your insane.

By Vick Supporter

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

No Vick = No Playoff Wins

By stendec

December 14, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Hi Bird Babe. Thank God for Jason Elam! Foxworth played solid in secondary. He was the only one that did! Keith Brooking had a so-so game but still cannot cover anyone or get to the QB quick enough on blitzes. Chris Houston cannot cover a receiver or defend a pass. Period! Was in another time zone when Bucs scored their lone touchdown. Special teams almost cost Falcons big time! Blocked punt? Completely unacceptable! On what did the idiot head referee overturn the touchdown call? Certainly not from any damn video evidence! Falcons had far too many giveaways. Offense appeared sloppy, out of sync and ill prepared. Not a showcase effort by any means. That said. Good teams win these types of games. The Falcons of old would not have won! Now cheering for Broncos against Panthers.

By FALCONS SUPPORTER

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

Great game, fantastic crowd today! Oh and I believe the Falcons have a winning record… I remember certain posts stating NO VICK=LOSING RECORD… what happened! We finally have a TEAM to be proud of!

By GT Guy

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

Great job by the D today. Ryan made some rookie mistakes but man the future looks good with him directing the offense. I still am a little concerned with the coaching/play calling. Too conservative. We pick up a first down with 3 min to go and game over. Giving up a blocked punt was a mental let down. We have a ways to go yet, but you can’t doubt there is a new toughness to this team.

Oh yea, Stendec were you born stupid or just get that way over time? Brookings played a great game today

Go Falcons! THWG

By Here since'67

December 14, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

VICK SUPPORT ET AL; WHY DO YOU WANT THE FALCONS TO LOSE?

By falconfan

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

to vick(jockstrap)supporter who wrote -No M.Turner = No Playofss. Matt Ryan = Draft Picks I’ve got some better equations for you. mvick = 7-9 seasons and federal prison

Matt Ryan + M. Turner. + J. Norwood + Offense Line + R. White + M. Jenkins + H. Douglas + B. Finn + solid D = winning record and a shot at the playoffs.

By matt. Lost in space

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

matt Rayan melts under pressure . I wonder why no other team has put pressure on matt. Is the NFL trying to make him look’s good sure look that way. Dail up the pressure and he is weak! Any QB can throw when he has all day.

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

GT Guy wrote: “Oh yea, Stendec were you born stupid or just get that way over time? Brookings played a great game today” Hey, give ole Stendec a break….today was the first day he didn’t completely blast Brooking and actually said he played “so-so”. The therapy is working. We all know Brooking had a great game…it’ll just take Stendec a few more sessions with the therapist to come up to speed.

By Rand

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

Good teams win ugly games…bad teams lose them. Falcons are a good team.

By nativefalcon

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

Vick Supporter, your obviously a Vick fan NOT a FALCONS Fan, Well just wait for YOUR SICK star gets out of jail and root for that team he plays for if anybody will take him.

By Mike

December 14, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Right on A.J. Calhoun. Top to bottom, this team is as good or better than our 98 superbowl team. In the past falcon teams needed breaks to win. This team can win even though the breaks go against them. One thing for sure, so far you can’t call them chokers.

By BCS Slave

December 14, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Here Since 67,

Vick Supporter doesn’t care if Falcons win or lose. IT jst wants to get a rise out of people. So it’s sport is not football…it is all the people who respond.

People, if you don’t want the VICKIES on here…don’t respond. Don’t play the VICKIES games.

By Sarah B

December 14, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Oh MY God - I just got home from the Dome and that game was exhausting!!! Yet Fabulous!!!! Wow, I don’t think I have ever been at a game like that before. My stomach hurt the whole 4th qtr and overtime, Wow we are 9-5! X-Mas just came early for me!!!!! Bring on the Vikings!

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

By David W.

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

We beat a very good TB team when overall, our offense had an off day. Too many turnovers, but that is exactly what a post-season bound team must do, win ugly under adversity. Props to Abraham, Turner, and Coach Smith for his fire on the sidelines. This was one of the most nerve-wracking games and yet, so satisfying. I see two more wins and then on to the post season. Who woulda thunk it ? GO FALCONS and just for today, Go Broncos.

By harleyman

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

Matt Ryan Just Wins! Just had to say that to all those who remember the blogs a couple of years ago.

By borden

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

What a great game! We have witnessed a good football team and how good team find ways to win when their not clicking on all cylinders. We just need one more game to have a shot sliding in the back door to the playoffs. It’s gonna be tuff. But, its gonna be exciting at the same time. I knew we had an exciting Headcoach. That was AWESOME Coach Smitty. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!

By maddog

December 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

EVEN VICK SUPPORTER KNOWS FALCONS ARE MAKING THE PLAYOFFS:) LAST WEEK HE SAID THE FALCONS WILL NOT MAKE PLAYOFFS WITH OUT VICK.THIS WEEK WE WILL HAVE NO PLAYOFF WINS. I LOVE IT!!!!!!! GO FALCONS

By ricknole

December 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

9 wins and a possible playof birth. All of you haters out there, go eat a d1ck.

By Anderson

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

Ugly game? Yes. Did the Falcons play sloppy and look lethargic? Yes. However, all that matters is that W in the win column. Most importantly, win #9. Of course, I would love for the Falcons to make the playoffs. Even if that does not happen, I am satisfied with the season.

Ryan was not on top of his game but that happens to the best of them. Congratulations to Matt for reaching the 3,000 yard plateau (actually over 3,100) for the season. When was the last time a Falcons QB accomplished that feat. Let alone a rookie.

9 wins!! A winning season. Life’s sweet.

By Jessie Tuggle 4 Hall of Fame

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

JAMAL ANDERSON=AUNDRAY BRUCE…JAMAL ANDERSON=AUNDRAY BRUCE…JAMAL ANDERSON=AUNDRAY BRUCE…JAMAL ANDERSON=AUNDRAY BRUCE…JAMAL ANDERSON=AUNDRAY BRUCE

By monty

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

Very nice ugly win! I’ll take it, but there were some troubling signs today. We almost let a Bucs team with theinjury bug stay around and beat us. Their QB hadnt even been practicing let alone playing in weeks. They were missing DL, they couldn’t run against us(good thing) and still we let them hang around.

By monty

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

Very nice ugly win! I’ll take it, but there were some troubling signs today. We almost let a Bucs team with theinjury bug stay around and beat us. Their QB hadnt even been practicing let alone playing in weeks. They were missing DL, they couldn’t run against us(good thing) and still we let them hang around.

By Cali_Falcons#1_Fan

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

Yes!!!! Big win today!!!! The defense finally steped up for the 1st time in a long time!!! Still I say the weak links are Jammal Andersen (Mr. I’m just out there!!!) & Chris Houston (Mr. Can’t cover Anyone!!! & give away ground to my a catch!!!) John Abraham is the Best!!! Foxworth is a good corner I hope we kept!!! & The Burnner!!! Is The Burnner!!! Bad as ever!!! & Matt is our guy!!! Love the way he plays QB!!!! Love to all the guys still…..Like Mr Elam!!! & please no more talk about that guy the used to play QB….Matt Ryan is our Man Now!!!! Back us….or root for the Aints!!!! Cause we don’t want you here….

By Cali_Falcons#1_Fan

December 14, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Yes!!!! Big win today!!!! The defense finally steped up for the 1st time in a long time!!! Still I say the weak links are Jammal Andersen (Mr. I’m just out there!!!) & Chris Houston (Mr. Can’t cover Anyone!!! & give away ground to my a catch!!!) John Abraham is the Best!!! Foxworth is a good corner I hope we kept!!! & The Burnner!!! Is The Burnner!!! Bad as ever!!! & Matt is our guy!!! Love the way he plays QB!!!! Love to all the guys still…..Like Mr Elam!!! & please no more talk about that guy the used to play QB….Matt Ryan is our Man Now!!!! Back us….or root for the Aints!!!! Cause we don’t want you here….

By Numba1Fan

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

Hey Vick supporter, I am sure you are very famiiar with how Mike Vicks azz and kock smells and taste. You low life son of a VITCH, you are nothing but project dwelling low life, why don’t you let me know where you at so I meet up with you and can suck my azz and kick just like you do with MV7’s.

By Numba1Fan

December 14, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Hey Vick supporter, I am sure you are very famiiar with how Mike Vicks azz and kock smells and taste. You low life son of a VITCH, you are nothing but project dwelling low life, why don’t you let me know where you at so I meet up with you and can suck my azz and kock, just like you do with MV7’s.

By This Gets Old = Profiler

December 14, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable to play like that and win over a team as good as the Bucs. Falcons are a good football teams and I don’t care about the naysayers. I’m enjoying this season!

By monty

December 14, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

NIce ugly win! Great to get this one . However there were things that troubled me. their qb hadn’t even practiced in weeks,let alone play,and he with his weak arm(the weakest I have seen for a PRO QB) ripped us up pretty well. HIs ball took forever to get to the receivers and still many times their guys were wide open. Ryan had a sub-par day throwing.

Good thing we were at home, I think we let this one get away on the road. I sure wish we could sustain the intensity and zeal we play with on offense in the 1st quarter throughout the game. We just seem to bog down so much in the 2nd half.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

By Vick Supporter December 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this No Vick = No Playoff Wins

Take that Vick outja mouf and listen up stupid! The Falcons are a good team on their way to being a great team. Vick’s last year in the NFL the team was 7-9. The year before that they were 8-8. Both those years they were winning the majority of games in the first half of the season and caving completely in the final eight games. That hasn’t happened with Ryan. It’s not going to happen! He’s a much better quarterback than Vick and they’ve got a chance to make the playoffs. When they were 8-8 and 7-9 they had no chance at the post season. So, take your updated b****** and go to hell. The Falcons are a team we can be proud of. You said, at the beginning of the year that without Vick they’d have an horrific losing season. They didn’t! You said they couldn’t beat anyone in the division. They beat them all! You said after every victory that it wasn’t legitimate because the opposition was only so and so. Well, they’ve won nine games, will have a winning season, may go to the playoffs and they’ve beaten all the so and so’s! So get lost and continue to worship your hero who sits bankrupt, suspended and incarcerated in a federal prison for being involved in an organized criminal enterprise. No Vick=No thugs!

By Numba1Fan

December 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

A perfect world= No thugs and low life project dwellers.

By Ryno

December 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

LETS GO GIANTS

We need a big Dallas loss

By falcondawg

December 14, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Monty, haven’t you noticed that second and third string qbs always give us fits? It’s great to win even when you are not at your best! In the past, we would’ve been blown out. GO BIRDS!!!

By BCS Slave

December 14, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons are a good team. However, given our history of not having back to back winning seasons, I’ll hold off on saying they are on their to be a “great” team. One step at a time. Let’s have a winning season next year and then we can talk about “great”.

Next week will be a big test. We’ll see how good we are next week.

By Howie

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

yes a big win today - - Matt Ryan made some big plays passing and running when he had to…Great play by Turner and the OL… Defense is better… What is Ryan wearing in the press conference after the game??? A white ivy league sweater??? Go Birds!!!!!

By TROTTINGHOME

December 14, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

That was a joe montana type win.

it was also the end of vick’s legacy.

no matter what else happens vick is fast fading…unfortunatly.

By matt. Lost in space

December 14, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Atlanta if you happen to get in the play off you will lose and next year you will lose because the defensive co. wil fine out matt weakness . pressure!!! the buc did vick they did Matt. matt a good kid just in a redneck town. How long before they ture turn on him and they will watch they all ways do in neckville!

By Jason

December 14, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

I thought the defense would roll over in the fourth like usual, but they stood up this time!

Isn’t it amazing how every game is close with these falcons? I guess that can be good or bad. Now lets go do our job and beat those vikings!

By RTW

December 14, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

To By matt. Lost in space: Study in school much?! -40 spelling.

By Roland

December 14, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

@ VICK SUPPORTER:

LET IT GO MAN!!! VICK IS GONE!!!! HE WAS A DUMB A@@!!!! HE DID IT TO HIMSELF AND LET HIS TEAM DOWN AND A CITY DOWN!!! WE ALL LOVED HIM BUT HE LOVED HIMSELF AND BULLSH@@!!! GIVE ME A BREAK!!!

TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION. NO HE DIDN’T PLAY DEFENSE BUT THE TEAM WAS BUILT AROUND HIM FOR GOD SAKE. THAT IS WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A FRANCHISE QB. FOOTBALL IS AN EMOTIONAL SPORT AND DEFENSE FEEDS OFF THE OFFENSE… I COULD GO ON BUT YOU PROBABLY DON’T CARE

By Stephen

December 14, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

I was at the game today at the Dome like many of the other bloggers and it was highly stressful but the Falcons won which is all that matters.

Please take the negativity someplace else and let these AJC blogs be about the CURRENT ATLANTA FALCONS TEAM and PLAYERS and not about what happened historically and about the Team’s personnel of the past. GO FALCONS!!!

I’m starting to see fewer MV7 jerseys at the games on Sunday and they are being replaced with R White, M Turner, J Abraham and M Ryan jerseys which is a good thing. Let’s support the current TEAM!!!

By Exodus Mentality

December 14, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

First off, Thank the Football Gods that we pulled this game out. Whenever an NFL team wins a must win game, especially when it’s pretty much a must win for the other team as well, that a reason to be very happy.

However, and I’m gonna say it even though I’ll get blasted for it, Ryan cannot throw the deep ball yet. A guy at the sports bar with me said, maybe he’ll improve with time, and that may very well be true. But only a real homer will deny that the first pick should have been a touchdown, but it was way under thrown. And I said this last week, when everyone was raving about how Ryan was squeezing the ball in between multiple defenders, that he better stop that because he doesn’t have the arm strength to get away with it against a good defense. Sure enough, Tampa made him pay for a bad throw into good coverage. And it wasn’t the pressure that got to Ryan, it was when Tampa dropped 8 into coverage and dared him to do something. The two late runs were big time, but people we cannot keep expecting this rook to be something he isn’t. Once again, the wide receivers should get a lot of props for going to get the ball no matter where it was. The fumble really was a fumble, and the blocked punt was the only bad play #52 made all day (he released his block a second too early although Koenan took his sweet time getting that punt off),

Enough of the bad. VS2, I warned you about betting against this team. Now you got to eat all the crow these cats throw at you, and revising the scenario only makes you look bad. Take it like a man. The team is good enough to beat anyone, even when Ryan is not over achieving.

Abraham put the defense on his back at the end of the 4th quarter, and Foxworth was a man in coverage all day. Stop picking on Chris Houston. He got beat in packages where the blitz was on and did not get any pressure on the QB, leaving him on an island. And he was still right there on every play (no yards after the catch) except that slant for a TD which basically cannot be covered by a cornerback in man on man. Also give Babs a big game award for disrupting the Bucs all day. And Brooking an “atta boy” for being in the general vicinity today when we really needed him. Game ball to Michael Turner, but the next time he tips up the line and stops I may have to go smack him one.

As a diehard Falcons fan, I thought this team was good enough to win 10 games this year from day one. No matter who the QB was, the overall team improvement, from top to bottom is the best of any team in the NFL this year. Now I think this team is good enough to go all the way, and I for one am not ready to be satisfied with just a winning season. Not when we can do so much more.

By Phi

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

It was a hard one to watch but great win Falcons. Great job Falcons D, ya’ll were fantastic!

By SlimG

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

Hi

BLACKOUTS RULE!

Someone forward this to Terrance and Jeff. Haha!

Matt had a rough day, yess but was there when we needed him. Way to keep your head up kid.

Can Plax play tonite if he promises to leave all weapons in the car. Hahaha. Stay with me.

Tons of mistakes today but we keep getting better overall. Can’t wait until we start playing lights out ball. Until then Just Win.

O yeah coach, next time we better go for it in that situation last week, okay. We will forgive you this time.

By Mac

December 14, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

KUDOS For The “W”.. But, I Still Can’t Believe We Won The Game.. What Kind Of “HOLD” Do These Buccaneers Have Over The Falcons? Every Time We Play Them,We Create All The “Turnover’s” In THEIR Favor!! It’s Like “Here, We Want You To Win The Game”!! I’m Sick To Death Of The LACK Of Play-Calling On Mularkey’s Part In The 2nd Half..AND..Most Especially, With Time Left On The Clock..All We Do Is Let It EXPIRE.. NO PLAY!! Where Is The Agressiveness In That? Why Not Send H. Douglas & R.White On A “Fly” Route To The End Zone??

By Griese is Horrible

December 14, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Griese was a statute. If Garcia had started, the Falcons lose. There should have been 10 sacks on Cement Feet. Ryan throws 2 picks, Fumbles and its clear that if Dunn was in the Falcons backfield instead of Turner, the Falcons wouldn’t see a winnning record. Michael Turner is the MVP of this team, plain and simple. And why can’t this play-off bound team sell out the Dome? What’s wrong with you fans? Plus at 5:15 the ones that came were all GONE. Still won’t buy tickets even NOW??

By Vick Supporter

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

It seems like every week there’s something wrong w/the other team (injuries, etc etc etc) but hey, the falcons are getting all the breaks and capitalizing off of them. Good for them. Vick 09.

By maddog

December 14, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

ugly win but team stepped up when they needed it and if there wasnt a fumble in the endzone it would have been a totally differant game.Go giants,if dallas loses we are in!!!! no way we can lose to the vikings or rams.

      ICE ICE BABY!!!!!!

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

Matty Ice,lol.

By TheJama

December 14, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

This is our ninth win and ensures the Atlanta Falcons Football Club a winning season. Lets just start there.

Soon to be America’s team….Ryan, Turner, White, Norwood, Jenks, Milloy, Brooks, Milton, Houston, Douglas, Fin, the list go on and on….

By Meanwhile...

December 14, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

As the Falcons were biting their nails on the sideline during the exciting climax of the Buccaneers game, imprisoned disgrace Mike Vick was biting into his prison cell pillow during a completely different type of climax.

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

“Soon to be America’s team….Ryan, Turner, White, Norwood, Jenks, Milloy, Brooks, Milton, Houston, Douglas, Fin, the list go on and on….

LMFAO

By TheJama

December 14, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

ohhhhhhh wait. Did I forget to mention BANANAS? You know the guy right? He is a specialist. Still guessing? The team deploys him on either side of the line. Still guessing? He goes BANANAS on opposing teams quaterbacks? Still guessing…John Abrahan aka BANANAS is a beast!!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS 2008 NFC CHAMPS

—-CAROLINA (GOD’S TEAM)——-

…..NOW AS PATHETIC A PERFORMANCE AS LEAF HAD IN THIS GAME, NEXT WEEK FEATURES……….

——-THE VIKINGS————

……….TODAY…………

VIKINGS……..35

ARIZONA……..14 (7-OFFENSIVE)

———-BETWEEN THE NUMBERS————

ADRIAN PETERSON……..NEARLY 200 YARDS

TAVARIS JACKSON……….4-TDS…0-PICKS

THE DEFENSE HAD NEARLY 10-SACKS

——-WHAT THIS MEANS NEXT WEEK——-

NOT A GOOD SIGN

SEE YA ON THE ANNUAL DRAFT DAY :)

By NikkiFree

December 14, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Good win for the Falcons. Our guys would have fought tooth and nail in the not so distant past to give this game away. not so now.

I thought Coach was gonna suit up and take old boy on the sidelines. (I’m sure we all know the scene I’m talking about!)

Ryan is not gonna be perfect every game. The Bucs defense is tough. I’m sure he’ll be dreaming about those guys in the offseason. Lots of film study.

Kudos to JA and Michael Turner for big games.

By Dixie Dawg

December 14, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Exodous I won’t blast you, but I have to disagree about Matt not being able to throw the longball. Actually, he has a very good arm. He just had an off day today, like other QBs have. Heh, even Elway and Marino had offdays. Oh, well, Matt will be back to himself when they go up to the Giant Souffle…er, I mean the Metrodome.

By JIm H.

December 14, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

You hard core Vick supporters are truly pathetic. He’s gone, He will not ever be back (with the Falcons), and he did all this to himself. Let it go. I wish him well if he makes it back to the NFL, but it won’t be with us. We now have our QB for the next 10 years. Deal with it.

Anyone that denies the incredible performance of Ryan this year IN HIS ROOKIE SEASON is pretty dang stupid. Anyone that denies the truth of the incredible turnaround this team has made since last season’s train wreck is very stupid.

By PlusSizeModel

December 14, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

I refuse to believe that “vick supporter” is anything other than some kid running around here yanking chains and laughing at everyone’s reactions. There is no way anyone could be as stupid as that character is.

The Falcons won a huge game today while still on a learning curve. The future for this team is ridiculous, regardless of how this season ends up.

And just wait until Wire learns that blocking for the punter is more important than getting up the field to cover the kick!

By jeanE

December 14, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Me & my family were at the game, the crowd noise was awesome! The defense was stout, they stopped them when they had to, even Brooking wasn’t bad! Where was Boley?? Coy Wire played great in his place. I’m still so annoyed that they don’t use Finn…with the offense stalling especially the passing attach, why not use him & move the chains? He is so much more than a fair catcher & special teams player!! I can’t believe we won this with 3 turnovers but we were lucky Garcia couldn’t go. This was a huge win, the fates were smiling on us today, go Birds!!

By Bunch of Mularkey

December 14, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Nice job by the D today and a game the Falcons of old would have lost. But anyone who knows football should be seriously concerned about Mike Mularkey’s play calling- especially in the 2nd half. It looked like Chan Gailey was calling plays- playing not to lose. The overly conservative and predictable play calling almost cost us the game. I thought I had seen Mularkey’s worst last week against the Saints, but he managed to get worse today. Lets hope he can be a little more inventive down the stretch and not always put Ryan in a 3rd a long situation. Lets get the ghost of Chan Gailey out of Atlanta once and for all. Live a little Mularkey- you’ve got a QB that can throw the rock!!

By monty

December 14, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

The under thrown ball to Roddy was because of the over throws of last week IMHO. Roddy has to come back to the ball and knock it down if he can’t catch it. He gave a feeble effort.

The other interception Matt was moving up in the pocket throwing as he was moving forward as the receiver was crossing over the middle and Matt just didn’t lead him enough. The stripped ball at the goal line changed the momentum, from an apparent TD to a turnover is a huge shift in emotions.

Way to go Birds, Tampa has always given us fits,any win over them is a good one.

By saint

December 14, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

Turner came thru on big plays when he had to. Abraham with 3 sacks, and at important “must stop” situations! Wire let up and it cost us a blocked punt, but he played hard all day. Brookings in on three great plays I saw, but a step slow on most plays. The OL did a good job protecting Ryan, but he didn’t eat his Wheaties for breakfast…underthrew receivers…but made up for it on his runs in the OT. I will take Dunn over Norwood..can we get him back? Tampa must have really closed down the passing lanes for Ryan, but he still got to White. Foxworth was outstanding, and Houston is amazing for his size. Elam for President!

By Exodus Mentality

December 14, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

@ Dixie Dawg, I don’t want anyone to think I am a Ryan hater, because nothing could be further from the truth. Now VS2, he is a Ryan hater. But see the comment earlier about Mularkey not going deep with just a few secs left on the clock. He never does it. Maybe he knows what I know. The kid has an NFL brain, and and NFL heart, but we may have to work on that NFL arm. I’m not even going to dignify the homers who think Matt Ryan should ever take off and run. That is the fastest way to shorten his career.

And if other teams see what I see, they will drop eight on passing downs and not try to pressure the kid because that’s when he is at his best. Make him throw deep, or into a crowd, and that’s when he may be suspect. I might even give him a running lane and let a fast LB close out on him if he crosses the line of scrimmage.

Actually. for a rookie, that’s not a bad scouting report. But then, all QB’s have their strengths and their weaknesses, right? As long as the team wins, I can be very patient with Mr. Ryan’s development.

By TheJama

December 14, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

I find it very odd that people really tend to be stuck on the past. Today is reality and our ex QB chose jail over playing for the fans of the Atlanta Falcons.

Time to move on..the train has already left the station

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

@JIm H.

I’ll be honest w/you…… I don’t fault Matt Ryan for coming in and taking advantage of a now STABLE front office and coaching staff…..which is one of the reasons that I defend #7 because he never had that here except for Dan Reeves. Now you people forget everything that Vick has done for this franchise ON THE FIELD. Thats why I hate the Falcons, because all of a sudden they figure out that they need a power RB, (not weak asss T.Duckett), not putting they’re 0-lineman on diets (Alex Gibbs), and getting a Real Coach. Why wouldn’t Ryan succeed when all of the pressure is on Michael Turner? Vick carried the team ON HIS BACK, which isn’t fair fro you people to say that he sucked when the pressure was ALWAYS ON #7.

By Skydawg

December 14, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

For the love of all that is Holy, please someone ban these Vick Supporter and Vick Supporter 2 clowns from posting on this blog.

You know its funny that there is such a double standard when it comes to racism and bigotry. Obviously neither one of those clowns like white people and their posts wreak of that sentiment. But Gawd forbid a white person comes on here and rants and raves about it. But lets go ahead and break things down here.

1)If Vick was such a fantastic QB, then why is Ryan having a leaps and bounds better season with virtually the same cast. Replace Dunn with Turner, thats about it. Of which Dunn rushed for over 1,000 yards every season Vick was the QB. And the team overall plays harder because they believe in their QB of whom actually studies gameplans instead of playing Xbox and smoking dope.

2)Do you think Vick actually gives a dayum that you “support” him? Vick cares about himself and himself alone. His actions speak volumes. If he really cared about the support of people in this town, you clowns included, then his butt wouldn’t be sitting in Federal prison right now. He put his personal interests above EVERYTHING else to the detriment of his family, teammates, coaches, owner and entire city of Atlanta.

3)What did the Falcons EVER do with Vick at QB besides one fluke season. And yes it was a fluke because all you have to do is look at the seasons that followed.

4)And most importantly here…VICK IS NEVER COMING BACK TO ATLANTA…NEVER!!! SO GET OVER IT!! Either get on the train of hop the hell off, because for once since 1967, this team is finally headed in the right direction from the top down. So if you’re a Vick fan only, then get the hades out of here. I’m trying to save you some embarrasement. Each time you spout off about how the Falcons suck without Vick, just makes you look more and more like an idiot.

But then again, you probably are. And I’m not so convinced that you’re not T. Moore incognito.

To all the rest of you TRUE Falcon fans, enjoy the ride. I honestly think things are only going to get better.

And for what its worth..Vick can’t hold Ryan’s jockstrap. Unless he’s doing community service in the Falcons laundry room.

By VS2/VS

December 14, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

We just hate white people….

By UGA Grad

December 14, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Does anybody look at what is working while the game is going on and make “in game” adjustments? I just looked at the log of the game (after being frustrated with all the running plays on first down during the game). The Falcons had 32 first down plays (not to be confused with first downs). On first down they ran 26 times and passed 6 - a little bit predictable. On the first downs where Ryan threw he was 5 for 6 with plays of 30, 26, 18, 12, and 14 yards. We could have made this game a lot easier and moved the ball a lot easier by simply running play action of FIRST down and then throwing for big yardage. Instead we got stuffed several times on first down and made Ryan and the offense have to overcome the bad plays. Fortunately, we overcame just barely enough to win.

By here since'67

December 14, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

so vick supporter why do you want the falcons to lose? the best season vick had was with the guys you crap on so there had to be something there; not to hurt your feelings or nothing but I never saw him progress; pulled for him wanted him to succeed but didn’t see any progress; with that said, it’s bob berry, or chris miller or any of the other guys back there under center they didn’t get it done; time to move on; so I’ve just got to ask: why do you want the falcons to lose?

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

There we go Falcon fans, lets make excuses for Ryan’s turnovers,lol. Just like I predicted. Vick would throw a pick and he was called a dumb a*, the n word, and everything else in the book.

By jeanE

December 14, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

I detest Mularkey’s playcalling, I was at the game & I recall he threw maybe once on 1st down…my 8 yr old could predict what will happen almost every time on 1st down with these Falcons! They need to mix it up & disguise they’re sets more, it is so obvious what is coming every play! And the passing attack flourishes when Ryan spreads the ball around, not just focuses on R White & some no name tight ends who aren’t Alge Crumpler!!!! I agree about the Chan Gaily comment, that is dead on!

By UGA Grad

December 14, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

I really don’t mind trying to dominate a game with the run - that is generally a winning formula, but there must be some balance on first down. It is okay to run on second down and pass on first. The frustration comes with a 26 to 6 run to pass ratio on first downs.

By UGA Grad

December 14, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

I really don’t mind trying to dominate a game with the run - that is generally a winning formula, but there must be some balance on first down. It is okay to run on second down and pass on first. The frustration comes with a 26 to 6 run to pass ratio on first downs. jeanE is exactly right also about spreading the ball around. That is when we are at our best because the defense can’t concentrate on one or two people and put their best people on them.

By savannah dawg

December 14, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Whatever happened to Glen Dorsey?

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

@Skydawg

Answer to question 1…….It helps to have good coaching, not a coach that wants to be friends and take joy rides in sports cars. Blank moved his a* upstairs where he belongs. Blank stripped Mckay of his GM duties, which should have been done YEARS ago.

Answer to question 2…… I could care less if Vick needs my support, this is my own personal thoughts that i have about the team and organization

Answer to question 3…. thats my point and why I hate the Falcons. I’m not saying that you shhouldn’t be proud of what Ryan, I mean TURNER and the Falcons are doing this season, but for you people to sit there and say that Vick just totally sucked a s a QB just shows what kind of fans you people are, and its a damn shame. Not saying that you have to love Vick for what he’s done off the field, it was horrible, but to say he sucked when he had a winning record here in ATL overall, shows you people’s overall IQ.

Answer to question 4…… I could care less if Vick doesn’t come back here, personally I don’t want him to, neither do the white fans here, well most of them, the Falcons needed a new start and so does Vick. He’s paid the price heavily….. he can’t go anywhere but UP and we will see whos’ the better QB. I’m man enough to admit it if Ryan turns out to be better. No skin off my back. Vick 09. Redemption is near………………

By Sarah B

December 14, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Ya’ll we are 9-5 and on a roll, damn those Bronco’s though…. Giants/Cowboys starting now….. GOOOOOO GIANTS!!!!!!!!!!

Love these FALCONS!!!!

By here since'67

December 14, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

running on 1st down; it may not be productive but with 150 yards gained there has to be something to the strategy; clearly the pounding hurt the Bucs more than turner; although it seems counter productive the proof seems to be in the pudding;

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

By Vick Supporter December 14, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this There we go Falcon fans, lets make excuses for Ryan’s turnovers,lol. Just like I predicted. Vick would throw a pick and he was called a dumb a*, the n word, and everything else in the book.

And he was all of that! Vick was terrible. He was the most overrated moron ever to play in the NFL. He’s done now because no team will touch his felonious a*. Ryan is ten times the quarterback Vick was. You like to criticize Ryan but the team has a winning record this season and Ryan’s rookie numbers are as good as the best numbers in Vick’s seven year career. Your hero is lying face down on his bed tonight, asking his cellmate if he could just hold him. ol that b***!

By savannah dawg

December 14, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

M Vick was one of the worst quarterbacks in the NFL period. White or Black he sucked, and if he couldn’t run fast he would be on the corner selling crack!

By Exodus Mentality

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

I’ve got to get VS2’s back on this one. To my knowledge, VS2 has NEVER made a comment that mentioned race. It’s not fair to say he has, unless you can pull up something in one of these blog archives that proves me wrong. Liking Vick does not equal hating white people and the inference offends me. Offering a sincere critique of Matt Ryan does not equal hating white people, and again the inference offends me. Overlooking the very salient point that the Falcons were a one man show during the Vick era, with p** poor coaching and a shaky front office, makes you Vick haters seem overzealous. And by the way, Dunn got a 1000 yards because defenses were always worried about MV7 coming out of the play action with the ball in his hands, so Dunn got a lot of space up the middle because no DE or LB could ever forget about the bootleg.

And unless you were in the room with Vick playing Xbox and getting high, you have no basis for making that statement. That’s a big reason why some people still support MV7. Because too many people around here never seemed to want anything but bad for the man and now appear ridiculously giddy about his misfortune (admittedly brought on himself).

Arthur Blank says Vick should be given a second chance and I agree. It’s not going to be with the Falcons, and VS2 has acknowledged that. The best way to deal with people who don’t believe in the Falcons fever that’s going on this year is for the team to keep winning. That will shut them up eventually.

By UGA Grad

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

Most of the yardage that Turner got wasn’t on first down. Look at the game play-by-play and you will see there were a lot of second and 10s, second and 11s, second and 9s. Again, I have no problem with being a running team - just have some balance where the ratio isn’t 26 to 6. We should have been able to move the ball much more easily. The predictability almost cost us a winnable game and put Ryan and the offense in bad second and third down situations.

By cjw80

December 14, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Give Matt Ryan and all the other rookies a break, They are hitting the Rookie wall, There bodies are ready for a break. Time for the vetrans to stand up and take us to the playoffs!!!!

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

@savannah dawg

We shall see, my cauccasian friend…….we shall see…….

By cb

December 14, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

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

By UGA Grad

December 14, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

This team definitely plays with heart! Whenever anyone is on the field they are giving their all. Even in a very agonizing game you have to appreciate the effort and the overtime stop by Abraham and the defense and the offense with Turner and Ryan doing what was necessary to score after being shut out for 3 quarters. It certainly gives an old fan like myself hope. (I was 12 years old and became a fan when the Falcons arrived here in 1966 and over the years I’ve seen some teams that had no heart.) This is a FUN time to be a Falcon fan!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

It’s Vick’s intellect, dedication, priorities, associations and illicit activities that accounted for his poor performance. If he were still a player the team would be just as terrible as when Mora was here. Aside from being a moron, Vick is a coach killer. The team had lots of talent when vick was here but he was fixated upon things other than football and didn’t have the time, or the requisite brain cells, to assimilate the playbook. He had raw talent and potential which went undeveloped due to his own slothful, duplicitous psychological make-up. He was revealed to be a terrible person in the end but before that he was, through his own terrible play, revealed to be an awful quarterback.

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Jockstrap wrote: “which is one of the reasons that I defend #7 because he never had that here except for Dan Reeves.” And the only reason Reeves was fired was because “the old gray-haired white guy couldn’t relate to the brilliant young black quarterback”. You remember that don’t you, Jockstrap. I’m sure your were probably one of the loudest calling to get rid of the old white guy.

By CREAKY

December 14, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

AWESOME BUT UGLY WIN.PLAYOFFS BECOMING A REAL POSSIBILITY.IF PAST PLAY IS ANY INDICATOIN I THINK AFTER THIS DEBACLE TODAY M.R. WILL HAVE A VERY SOLID GAME NEXT WEEK.REGARDLESS OF HOW THE REST OF THE SEASON PLAYS OUT MATTY ICE IS THE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR HANDS DOWN.NO WAY WE WOULD BE WHERE WE ARE WITHOUT HIS PLAY.THE BURNER IS A BEAST AND THE O LINE IS THE MOST IMPROVED THING SINCE MR. BLANK BOUGHT OUT THE SMITHS BUT WITHOUT MATT THERE WOULD BE NO PLAYOFFS POSSIBLE.

By OHHH!

December 14, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

OH SO WHY DIDN’T THE AJC TELL US THIS!! I BET EVERY ROOKIE QB WISH THEY HAD IT THIS EASY http://www.bradenton.com/sports/story/1095561.html Having a strong running game helps. So does playing in an offense that is identical to the one Ryan played in at Boston College. Same blocking schemes. Same pass protection terminology. Pure genius on the part of offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey if you ask me.

WHY ISNT IT EMPHASIZED THAT RYAN IS PLAYING IN THE SAME SCHEME USING THE SAME TERMINOLOGY THAT HE DID IN COLLEGE? HOW MANY OTHER ROOKIE QBS GET AN OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR THAT DOES THAT??

By Sarah B

December 14, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

I am white, female and a season ticket holder and I loved to watch Vick play - he was exciting… however he cared more about himself than the fans, the team and the city… so let it go for Gods sake!!!!

By OHHH!

December 14, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Algonquin Dummy, idiot! So If Mike Mularkey keeps the same pass protections and same terminology that Matt Ryan played with in college for 5 years (yes 5), that makes Ryan a football genius?? Oh, cat’s out the bag, its not Ryan’s “quick learning”, its the same d@mn offense he played in for 5 years!

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Exodus Mentality wrote: “And Brooking an “atta boy” for being in the general vicinity today when we really needed him.” Yeah, third leading tackler on the team today is certainly in the “general vicinity”. Not to mention the pass play he broke up on third down and the unassisted tackle on another third down play to stop a Buc’s drive. By the way the #52 you mentioned is Cory Wire who was the second leading tackler on the team with 8. It appears Mr. Brooking hasn’t been our problem after all….look to who Mr. Wire replaced and tell me how many 8 tackle games he/she has had this year.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

hey Stupid, what difference does it make if the Falcons are using the same offensive sets used at BC? Fact of the matter is, Ryan isn’t at BC any longer. He’s in the NFL and he’s winning. I know you don’t like that but that’s just too bad. Shut your stupid mouth! Mike Vick is long gone and he’s not coming back, while Ryan is here to stay. The Falcons, picked by many to win one game, have won nine times in fourteen games. Lump it b***!

By cb

December 14, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

@UGA Grad,I agree with you completely. I’ve been a fan since 66 and like yourself have experienced the ups and downs of this franchise. The difference between our brief stints of respectability in the late 70’s, the couple of seasons in the 90’s and the early 2000’s is that the organization is being constructed for sustained success. Having a GM that is a legitimate personnel evaluator from a winning organization is something that this franchise has never had. In order to have a viable product built for lasting success you have to have competent personnel that can truly evaluate talent. There are no shortcuts. The Falcons are on the right track. It’s about time. GO FALCONS!!!!

By darrell starks

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

GOOD WIN FALCONS DEFENSE STEP UP TO THE PLATE. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Exodus Mentality

December 14, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

@crabapple, So I didn’t give Brook enough love eh? Okay, you are right he stays at the top of the tackle stats. But we’ve all mentioned that too many of those tackles are too late or as he is being dragged downfield by a RB or TE. His effectiveness is a better gauge of his playing than the tackle stats.

And I was as happy to see Coy Wire today as anyone. Dude played a monster of a game and I don’t even think he let that block go too early (unless he is supposed to wait until he hears a thud), because Koenan took forever to get that punt off. I still don’t think you can call Boley a bust, having a down year certainly, but by no means was he the Falcons main liability on Defense. Brooking on the other hand is almost always step slow in coverage and there’s no chance he is getting any younger or any faster. I’ve watched too many teams look to capitalize on that this year.

So if bringing in some young fresh legs helped out on one side of the LB corps, who knows how effective it might be to bring in some young fresh legs on the other side.

By AFnPC

December 14, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Ryan’s 2 interceptions should go on Roddy White’s stat sheet. He was back to his old self, waiting for the ball to come to him instead of going to get it. I watched it last week on the first drive against the Saits, and then twice this week, on plays he should have made the move for the ball, but simply waited for it and let the DB go up and get it. Someone has to get him being physical with those DBs. It cost us last week, and almost cost us the game today!

By here since'67

December 14, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

you guys beating up on booking seem to know more than the coaches who keep playing him; for some reason you guys think his minutes should go to someone else; this ain’t soccer you earn you minutes and nobody has taken his during practice; obviously boley’s were;

By Coleman

December 14, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

As a Falcons fan who live on the West Coast, I rarely have a chance to see a complete game. I usually only get to watch the highlights. Luckily today, Fox ran the Birds/Bucs game in Southern California.

I noticed a few things that other posters on this forum have mentioned. For a power runner, Turner has a bad tendency of tip-toeing up to the line looking for a cutback lane. A guy that big should explode through the line and move piles.

Also, we have no pass rush except for Abraham. Abe is awesome, but if he gets hurt, we’re hosed. This is definitely an area that should get TD’s full attention in the offseason. I wonder what the salary cap implications are if we cut J. Anderson. He’s just WAY under-delivering for a guy getting paid first-round money.

Also, we gotta make sure we keep Foxworth at CB. He’s our best cover corner.

Definitely not Ryan’s best day. Both the picks he threw were clearly the fault of bad throws. The deep one was underthrown; and the one that Barber picked was thrown behind Roddy.

The fumble (or bad ref call of a fumble, depending on how you see it) could’ve been a back-breaker. Luckliy we survived it.

The Birds passed a very important milestone today. No matter what else happens, they have a winning season under their belts. Hopefully by a year from now, they’ll have shaken off that onerous record of never having back-to-back winning seasons.

From what I’ve seen of Coach Smith, Dimitrov & Ryan., I think we’re definitely on the right track.

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

@crabapplejoe

You obviously do not read my posts. lol

By OHHHH!

December 14, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

SO NOW YOU MAD ALGONQUIN IDIOT THAT ITS FOUND OUT THAT MULARKEY ‘DUMBED DOWN’ THE PLAYBOOK TO BE EXACTLY WHAT IT WAS FOR RYAN AT BOSTON COLLEGE? ISN’T THAT WHY HE DID IT? BECAUSE HE HAD TOO? OR DO YOU THINK THEY ARE USING THE SAME PROTECTIONS AND SCHEMES FOR SOME OTHER REASON? BECAUSE IT WOULD MAKE IT EASIER FOR RYAN, AND THE AJC NEVER MENTIONED THIS AT ALL BECAUSE THEY WANT NUMBNUTS LIKE YOU TO BELIEVE RYAN IS LEARNING A WHOLE NEW OFFENSE SO FAST! WELL….NOT! ITS THE SAME OFFENSE HE PLAYED IN ALREADY…BUT NOW HE HAS A STUD RUNNING BACK AND RODDY WHITE (WHO CREDITS HIS SUCCESS TO JOE HORN AND PAUL PETRINO) - PLUS HE GETS AN OFFENSIVE LINE WHO GETS TO EAT INSTEAD OF BEING FORCED TO DIET BY ALEX GIBBS. NO HARM IN HAVING ADVANTAGES, SO LETS JUST ADMIT RYAN HAD THEM ALL, INCLUDING THE BIGGEST ONE - PLAYING IN THE OFFENSE HE PLAYED IN FOR 4 YEARS BEFORE! TERMINOLOGY AND ALL!

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Exodus Mentality wrote: “So I didn’t give Brook enough love eh? Okay, you are right he stays at the top of the tackle stats. But we’ve all mentioned that too many of those tackles are too late” This is my favorite Brooking hate line. If Brooking is making the tackles “too far down field” where in heavens name are the other 10 folks on defense…is he playing by himself. But, yeah he’s just padding his tackle statistics in a conspiracy with the NFL. You and Stendec crack me up. We saw where the problem in the LB corps is today when they brought in Wire for 8 tackles. Look there…he didn’t replace Brooking.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

I reiterate, who cares? As long as the Falcons win, I don’t care if the coach sings him to sleep every night. Let’s face it, the AJC hasn’t mentioned this because he’s white and you know it’s a conspiracy to make Whitey look good. By the way, I appreciate the bolding. I might have missed your insipid post without it,

By Navigator

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

OHHHH! Stop being so football ignorant about Ryan playing in a similar system. The pros are not college, with faster speeds, complex defensive sets, better defensive backfields. The reason the NFL is so taken with Ryan is because he picks up the defenses and finds the receivers better than any rookie in a long time. Get your head out of you a$$ and learn a little bit more as a fan. If you don’t like Ryan, just say that you don’t. Your argument simply isn’t a very good one, and it shows your lack of knowledge of the game.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

WHAT DID THIS WIN PROVE

————-SO WHAT—————

LEAF HAD 2-MORE PICKS

———SO WHAT—————

LEAF COUGHED UP THE BALL 2-MORE TIMES

—————-SO WHAT—————

LEAF HAS 0-TDS & 4-PICKS VS TAMPA

———————SO WHAT—————-

LEAF HAD A QB RATING OF 29 IN THE 1ST GAME

——————-SO WHAT———————-

LEAF HAD A 57 QB RATING IN THE 2ND GAME

———————CHECK THIS OUT————

……………ON DECK…………….

ADRIAN PETERSON & THE WILLIAMS WALL

————-TODAY’S STATS—————-

……….AGAINST THE #4 OFFENSE…….

——————-GAVE UP——————-

……….7 OFFENSIVE POINTS…….

———-VIKINGS STATS————-

ADRIAN PETERSON……..NEARLY 200 YARDS

TAVARIS JACKSON…….4-TDS….0-PICKS

TEAM SCORED…………35 POINTS

————-NOW——————-

THE VIKINGS DEFENSE WAS LIGHTS OUT……AND ADRIAN PETERSON WAS RUNNING LIKE HE WAS PLAYING WITH 5TH GRADERS…..

—————AND——————

TAVARIS JACKSON WAS PLAYING LIKE BRETT FAVRE & MIKE VICK COMBINED………

—————YOU DO THE MATH—————-

RITUAL DRAFT DAY AS USUAL

By Vick Supporter

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

@OHHHH! ,lol

You might be on to something. We’ll see over time…….. Ryan can play though……I just believe the Nfl catches up w/everyone, even Vick. The difference is that Vick has more ability. Hopefully he can use it fully now with out his own distractions. Good point though..

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

if the two of you combined your IQs the total would still be below one hundred. You two idiots don’t have the first clue about anything. The Falcons have a winning season and Vick has had another season in jail. When he comes out Goodell will suspend his dumb a* for another season. it’s going to happen!

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

@VICK SUPPORTER 2, LOL. Damn. VS2 always there,lol. The truth

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING

——-PLEASE TELL ME IT’S NOT SO———

THE FALCONS ARE USING BOSTON COLLEGE OFFENSE?

————SO YOU TELLING ME———-

LEAF IS SO DUMB HE CAN’T LEARN NFL SCHEMES OR PLAYBOOKS?

THAT IS HILARIOUS

By OHHHH!

December 14, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Hey Vick Supporter, I sincerely believe Ryan can play, he is a good QB - but these haters need to stop getting it twisted like he inhaled a brand new playbook he had never seen before in one season! They need to stop pretending like he has all these “intangibles” when anybody could succeed faster if all they were doing is expanding on what they already DID for 4 years. He isn’t learning new protection schemes, he isn’t learning new terms. He got a benefit…a HELLUVA benefit and there is nothing wrong with that, but lets call it what it is. It sheds a whole new light on what is really happening. The media wants so desperately for a Dome full of #2 jerseys that they’ll keep as much information as they can from the public! How pathetic. No harm in knowing the boy got some advantages! Its all good! It is what IT IS!! LOL!!

By Former STH

December 14, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

ESPN’s Outside the Lines showed that the Falcons are actually only averaging 55,000 in attendance per game. Those Falcon 365 stores are about ready for full liquidation. The franchise needs cash inflow so bad they are trying to get money for season tickets for next year before the end of this one (a sure sign of needing some quick revenue). The Falcons worst nightmare is about to come true. He’s gonna be released and playing for another team….and Direct TV will have new customers getting Sunday Ticket while people like Algonquin post on the AJC about the Falcons “success”. LOL

By monty

December 14, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Vick was an athlete playing QB, a freak of nature sort of, a guy who can run a 4.3 40 and can throw it an easy 60 yards. But Vick threw the ball too dang hard. All you have to do is look at White and Jenkins receptions to see that. Who in their right mind wants to catch a 100 mph throw from 15 yards away? Not Roddy,and not jenkins. They love catching MR’s balls.

Vick didn’t understand audibles and how to read defences. He didn’t have any touch on the short passes either. He will probably go down as the greatest athlete ever to play QB, maybe the most exciting, but only because of his running ability, not for his throwing and not for being a field general.

I would even say that if Vick ran a 4.8 40 he couldn’t even be a starting QB in the NFL. He is undersized and had more passes batted down than anyone in the history of the NFL.(Juat a guess)

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Former STH wrote: “The Falcons worst nightmare is about to come true. He’s gonna be released and playing for another team….” Trust me dude, as a Falcon fan since 1967, we will be able to survive the release of the dog killer and sociopath. The vast majority of Falcons fans could care less whether he plays in the CFL or Arena League. We wish him the best…just not anywhere near here.

By OHHHH!

December 14, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

Monty are you lying on purpose? Can’t read defenses? How many interceptions did Vick have his first year starting and how many do Matt Ryan have right now? Are you saying that Roddy is lying about his own development? Oh, you’re just lying because you think nobody will call you out on it, right? well liar liar pants on fire. Dont try to pass off that bull.

By Dirt Dobber

December 14, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Well it looks like the Gaints are going to lay down and let the cowboys win.That way They can have more teams in the playoffs from the NFC east.they don’t want to play teams like the Falcons in the playoffs.

By Former STH

December 14, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

No crabapple, you seem to think I was referring to the 55,000 or less “fans” that may be willing to pay…(and that number will decrease) to see a Falcons game. When I wrote “Falcons” in that context, I was referring to the front office…that would include marketing and ticket sales. See, you may not think it so, but between ticket sales, merchandising sales and advertising…the Falcons are losing money and franchises like the Cowboys and Steelers are tired of having to share revenues with these franchises that can’t pull their own weight. Don’t believe me? Check Forbes valuations of NFL teams and look at the drop from 2006 to 2007 to 2008. See Vick was single-handedly holding Blank above water - that happens when (per Steve Bartowski) he had to be THE TEAM - but now the Falcons are so very balanced…its just that the balance SHEET doesn’t agree.

By TheOne

December 14, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Former STH. Stay off the crack!!!!!!! How could that be our worse nightmare. Matt Ryan as made Roddy White and the rest of the wideouts better. He is years ahead of Convick. He can actually pass and run when he needs too. . The running QB as failed. Upper management is smart. VIck will go to one of the worst teams in the league, you can count on that. Maybe he will break his leg so bad it will fall off and a dog will chew all the meat off his leg. Falcons have a great team all the way around. The defense is playing good D at the right time. With the falcons running attack it makes Matt Ryan and the whole offense very dangerous. Great are coming for this franchise. The falcon would have lost more games if Vickie was around. Go FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Ryan smarter than Vick? Well, who’s in prison? Ryan’s team has won nine games. The last two seasons of Vick’s lousy career the Falcons won 8 and 7. You numb skulls continue to debate whether Ryan is intelligent but he’s earning 72 million dollars over his contract and Vick is earning twelve cents an hour. Morons get a grip! BC has used a pro-set offense for years. This is no surprise to anyone but you stewed prunes. Take those dunce caps off indoors and try to learn something. This just in, Mike Vick still in prison and taking it up the poopenschaf!

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

@OHHHH!

Good statement, but we’ll see over time…. i agree with you though……thats what the NFL does……he has had a great season, but the NFL does this w/all new players, same thing with Vick, Romo, Eli’s got respect now, they used to destroy him in the papers. One thing these people forget is determination. When Vick comes back its going to be something to watch…..

By Former STH

December 14, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Another one in denial! LOL…yeah “The One”…did you pay to go to the game today??? NOPE! Neither did 15,000 other people that USED TOO! Matt Ryan isn’t years ahead of ANYBODY because as has been pointed out already, no other QB had the luxury of the Offensive Coordinator using the same offense from the QBs college playing days. So you need to stop the perpetrations. Roddy has said time and time again why he’s better and it had nothing to do with Ryan whatsoever. Probably why he had over 1000 yards with 4 different QBs in 2007. You will be one of the same haters trying to call up Direct TV to get Sunday Ticket because you won’t be trying to pay for 8 home games. The Falcons worst nightmare is somebody just like you. Claiming to be a fan, but will spend money to watch Vick just to hate on him instead of paying to watch Ryan who you claim to love! LOL. Blank knows that’s the case. You haters made him just as much money as Vick supporters did…and that trend will continue.

By crabapplejoe

December 14, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Former STH wrote: “See Vick was single-handedly holding Blank above water” I think Arthur Blank has already spoken on this issue…he will not have your sociopath back here in a Falcons’ uniform. I think Arthur and the Falcons will do just fine financially without the dog killer….Arthur ain’t losing any sleep over the numbers…trust me dude.

By OHHHHH!

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

Algonquin having Freudian slips again!! Knew it would come out!! LOL!! All he thinks about is Vick and then ole Algonquin has his Oz fantasies! LOL

By monty

December 14, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

OHHH

What part do you think was a lie that Vick didn’t have touch? THat he didn’t throw the ball too hard? That if he was slow of foot that he couldn’t start for most teams? You really think he could read defences? Then why was he never allowed to audible? Was that a lie? Are you calling me out for saying the truth? Did he not have tons of balls batted down at the line because he was short and he had a three quarter delivery? I gave the guy his due(greatest athlete to play the position) but please don’t make him out to be Joe Montana or even a Steve Bartkowski!!

By OHHHH!

December 14, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

So monty you’re calling Steve Bartowski a liar?? OK, if YOU say he is!!

By Reality Bites

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

Sorry Dude but its true and even though this is only thru week 5, they did say the same thing on ESPN last week:

http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/article/124550

Through Week Five, the NFL is averaging 68,829 fans per game, on par with the same period last year (-0.4%). The Redskins lead the league at 89,153 fans per game at FedEx Field, slightly off from last season. Ten of the 16 NFC teams are seeing declines at the turnstile, with the Falcons seeing the biggest drop (-9.3%). The Georgia Dome is the only NFC venue packed below 90% capacity for its home games to date. The Eagles top the conference in average attendance gains, up 2.2%, while packing Lincoln Financial Field to 100% capacity. The following lists attendance for NFC teams, with comparisons to the same period in ‘07 (THE DAILY).

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

*@Former STH *

Thats deep…….and true

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

In fourteen games, Ryan has thrown for five hundred more yards than Vick threw for in either 2005 or 2006. Five hundred more with two games to go! You see Ryan studied, learned and executed the plays. Vick could never learn them. His IQ is two below broccoli and so is yours!

By Vick Supporter

December 14, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Former STH laying it down,lol. Good to see someone who sees the bigger picture…..

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 14, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

IN 2-GAMES VS TAMPA

LEAF HAS NOT THROWN A TOUCH DOWN BUT HAS 4-PICKS……

—————-NOW—————-

THAT’S INTELLIGENT THINKING

By monty

December 14, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

WHat is Roddy going to say?” That Vick threw too hard?(Not manly)The politically correct thing to say is I’m developing as a receiver. All the Qb’s we had last year couldn’t break a pane of glass put together. No wonder his numbers improved.

Have any of you Vick supporters not ever played catch with the older, bigger kid when you were young and he would throw it as hard as he could from 10 yards away and you would be like “Dang I ain’t stickin my hand out to try to catch that? Wake up and smell the coffee.

By Dirt Dobber

December 14, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

Cowboys win.Giants lay down.Pathetic

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 14, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

Vick lickers, please come up from the f****** you’re performing and realize that Ryan has quarterbacked this team to a winning record, something vick could not do in 2005, nor in 2006. The Vick years are gone, just an unpleasant memory. He’s suspended and won’t ;lay until the 2010 season, if then. In reality, he’s done! So are you slobs.

By Exodus Mentality

December 15, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

Even though it’s a Falcons blog, I think the simple economics of the NFL is a very good point to bring up. Much of the hype over our outstanding rookie QB could be a ploy to try to create a superstar to replace the one who is no longer with us. All the other teams were sharing that revenue that a certain somebody increased any time he stepped on anyone’s field. And all that money coming in wasn’t to see him play badly, I promise you that.

@crabapple, if you think the economics doesn’t matter to Blank you are a complete fool. The man didn’t get rich not caring or not knowing about how his dollars were flowing. The biggest reason why he made the statement about Vick not coming back to the Falcons was because at this point he is hoping that Ryan will replace the Vick revenue stream. But even if Ryan comes out and plays exceptional next year, the chances that he ever has the highest selling jersey in the league are slim and slimmer. The chances that opposing stadiums fill up just to see Matt Ryan are about the same. Arturious knows this as well as anyone. But he can’t p** off half the fan base who still hold a vocal, violent, (and I’ll admit partially valid) grudge against Vick, by saying he wants to give the man another chance in Atlanta. Especially not when the new franchise guy is doing so well. But if Arthur was so dead set against the man, he would release him, take the financial hit now and get the man’s name off the roster. In the NFL as in the rest of the world, Cash Rules Everything Around Me. The cash cow that was MV7 simply can’t be replaced, at least not right now, by the rookie Matt Ryan.

The part about the BC playbook is interesting too. It goes to show how much better an organization we have now than we had when a certain somebody was still with us. It is a stroke of genius to bring Ryan along in this fashion, and I hope whoever replaces Mularkey (after he gets a head coaching job in the off season) will be as good at helping the young man along.

By Chris

December 15, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

I don’t ever read the Falcons blogs (mostly just the GT and Braves blogs) but I’m honestly shocked that there are people supporting Vick on this blog. I’m not mad at him or anything, but seriously, LET IT GO. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice (or more…), shame on me. Vick burned us once and won’t get the chance to do it again.

I think that if he does get another shot in the NFL (and I think he will) a team like the Lions might be willing to take a gamble on someone like him. There isn’t a whole lot of risk involved (he won’t get a big contract, considering his situation) and there could potentially be a huge upside because he is a tremendous playmaker.

By dogboy32

December 15, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick wears MATT RYAN pajamas!!!!!!!!!

By OHHHH!

December 15, 2008 6:14 AM | Link to this

Will there be any last minute heroics when the Falcons go to the Metrodome this Sunday and fight for a playoff spot the way there was in 2002?? We shall see!! LOL

By OHHHH!

December 15, 2008 6:22 AM | Link to this

FALCONS 365 HAD A 2 JERSEYS 2 TICKETS SALE!! BWA HAHAHAHAHA! WHAT??? 2 JERSEYS 2 TICKETS?? WELL I HOPE ALL YOU DIEHARD “FANS” BOUGHT YOURS TO SUPPORT “YOUR” TEAM!! BET YOU DIDN’T!! BET IT NEVER EVEN CROSSED YOUR MINDS! YOU DONT REALLY LOVE THE FALCONS, IF YOU DID, NO SUCH SALE WOULD BE POSSIBLE!*

By The Williamses

December 15, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

We look forward to playing the Falcons on Sunday! We see how well this offense plays when up against a TOP TEN DEFENSE! As you know, the Vikings are #8, but unlike Tampa Bay, on offense we have Adrian Peterson and a guy who just threw 4 TD passes against a defense ranked much higher than the Falcons. So wont be no 50 yards running with the clock running out to win! Not this time! See ya Sunday!

By This Gets Old = Profiler

December 15, 2008 7:19 AM | Link to this

Posted by ( ollie33613 ) on 12/14/2008 at 05:16 pm. (This comment was removed by the site staff.) Report Inappropriate Comments

By N2Pain

December 15, 2008 7:21 AM | Link to this

Chan Gailey is alive and well and coaching the Atlanta Falcons. Great win guys despite mental lapses with Mularkey and Coach Rookie Smith. For the 3rd game in a row, Smith was asleep at the wheel. You can’t hide it, he’s soft and a terrible play caller (he and Mularkey). Matt Ryan and Turner are just good enough to win in spite of these 2 weak links. And by the way, cut Jamaal Anderson. Everyone in the NFL knows he’s awful.

By This Gets Old = Profiler

December 15, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this

We are still talking about the Vikings that gave up 48 points to the Bears or lost twice to the Packers or nearly lost twice to the Lions aren’t we?

By crabapplejoe

December 15, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this

Exodus Mentality wrote: “@crabapple, if you think the economics doesn’t matter to Blank you are a complete fool. The man didn’t get rich not caring or not knowing about how his dollars were flowing.” And that’s exactly the reason your boy Mikey will never wear a Falcon’s jersey again…you’re a fool if you think otherwise. Matty Ice is the Man now.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 15, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

Even if the Falcons lose their remaining two games, which they won’t, they will still have a winning record. That’s something they didn’t have in 2005 and 2006 when dog-killa was their pitiful quarterback!

By rockinreel

December 15, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

When Brooking doesn’t play for the falcon’s anymore, it will be like Hank Aaron and Dale Murphy retiring. Brooking is the Falcons.

By N2PAINJR

December 15, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

I second that- cut Jamaal Anderson today. He is lost out there.. Not even a threat to get to the QB, and can’t defend the run either! Surely we’ve got somebody on the bench that can give a better effort than that! If not, hold an open tryout and find the next Rudi.

By BostonBCfan

December 15, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

@OHH

Please shut up when you don’t know what the heck you are talking about.

Let me set the record straight about what offense Matt Ryan ran at BC. In his first 2 1/2 years under Tom O’Brien he ran a prototypical pro offense that focused much more on the run game with a fullback and halfback in the backfield most of the time. The 0-line used gap blocking and man on man blocking schemes. It was run first, pass second.

His senior year under coach Jags they completely changed the offense and he ran a west coast style offense with one back usually and, it was pass first, run second. He ran the same offense that Brett Favre ran at Green Bay because that is where coach Jags came from and, that is a west coast style offense they ran in green bay. The entire blocking scheme was changed from gap/man on man blocking to zone blocking. (Gee, i hope i haven’ t lost you yet OHH). So, here’s a rookie who steps into the NFL and has done what he has done and you idiots keep trying to come up with ways why he isn’t as good as he really is.

Ask any QB or offensive coordinator in the NFL how difficult it is for a QB to run a west coast offense that has never run one before. It’s brutal to learn it. Just listen to Steve Young sometimes on ESPN when he talks about how hard it is to run a west coast offense. WELL, Matt went from running a typical run first, pass second pro style offense for 2 1/2 years and then switched to a west coast style offense and didn’t miss a beat at BC running it.

IF that doesn’t show you how good, how smart, this kid is and convince you idiots that he is for real i don’t know what else can. He can and will run any offense they give him. He’s that good. So shut up and enjoy what the falcons have with Ryan and Turner and just keep watching as the falcons continue to build and put the right pieces around Ryan.

I CAN’T BELIEVE THE IDIOTS ON THIS BLOG AND IF YOU CLAIM TO BE FALCON FANS I FEEL SORRY FOR THE TRUE FALCON FANS.

GO FALCONS!!!!!!

By Eric C.

December 15, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

So what do ya’ll think about the Falcons chances at MN? It is tough to think 11-5 may not be good enough to get into the playoffs. Tampa shouldn’t have any trouble with SD and Oakland. Dallas looks really tough now and should beat Baltimore at home and then Philly in last game. I think the Falcons best chance to get in would be to have Carolina lose their last two games against the Giants and Saints.

By 4th and goal

December 15, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Let’s be real. Matt Ryan will never be able to sell the dome out like Vick. However, the saying goes that defense wins championships, but offense puts fans in the stands. This formula seems to be unfolding before our very eyes. I don’t care what anybody says, in my opinion Ryan can operate an offense better than Vick could, but Vick had that wow factor that people would pay top dollar to see. It’s really not hard to see why Vick could sell out and Ryan hasn’t. I doubt Arthur is expecting Ryan to single handedly sell out the dome. With all this talk about being a team, it’s the product as a whole that he should be banking on. We have all the tools on offense to be an exciting team to watch score points. I’m not saying we’ll be the next Stl Rams, but even so, how much do you think their owner was banking on Kurt Warner to sell out the dome. NONE! It was the greatest show on turf that eveybody wanted to watch. This Falcons offense can score points and their only going to get better. Put together a team with a franchise QB who has playmakers around him and can put up points and win. Problem solved.

By T Money

December 15, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

The announcers today said something that tells me all that I need to know about Matt Ryan:

“Last week, the Saints defense stopped their film session to ask if anyone had ever seen a rookie QB so composed. They couldn’t come up with anyone. This week, Ronde Barber said it is clear how much more poise Ryan has than when these teams played in week 2. Barber said that in a few years, Matt Ryan will be setting the standard for how QBs play the game.”

When you’ve got opposing teams saying things like that, you’re something special.

By Vick Supporter

December 15, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Ryan…..using the same offense from BC……not a surprise……good move for the Falcons though……the NFL will catch up to it.

By 4th and goal

December 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2008 Atlanta Falcons for having their first winning season since 2004. Man, I bet that just sucks to hear for some people.

By been here since '67

December 15, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

SELLING OUT THE DOME? It’s a different market out there right now; comparing the economic reality now to what was going on a couple of years ago is meaningless; yes Vick was a freak; everyone likes a freakshow; so he sold seats; as good as anyone can sell seats; if seat sales are the only criteria we use to judge a team then welcome to Cleveland; my guess is we’ll always have trouble in Atlanta due to the competition of the Dawgs and the Jackets; let’s just hope we get the team right and we can have a sustained winning cycle here for awhile;

By BostonBCfan

December 15, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

By Exodus Mentality

Exodus, you might be right in saying that Ryan’s jersey sales and revenue he brings in on merchandise will never match what vick brought in and you say the chances of Ryan’s jersey being the best seller in the league is slim and slimmer, but you don’t have any numbers to back it up.

So, let me give you some numbers that may interest you. The company i work for tracks retail sales for apparel, footwear, sporting goods and league licensed products, like authentic jerseys and such.

Matt Ryans 2 different jerseys that are out on the market right now were not ranked in the top 100 best sellers 2 weeks ago. However, last week one of his jerseys ranked # 57 as his jersey sales quadrupled from 2 weeks ago to this past week. Another one of his jerseys ranked #90 this past week but didn’t hit the top 100 just 2 weeks ago. If you combine the 2 jerseys he is in the top 50 best selling jerseys in the NFL. As i said, his jerseys sales have quadrupled in the last week over the last several weeks. If the Falcons make the playoffs his jersey sales are going to explode, just wait and see……i’ll keep you guys posted on that.

Now, i admit, he may never generate the overall dollars MV did, but give him time and he’ll come damn close……you wait and see. My prediction is that he will surpass total revenue that MV brought in. It might take a little time but it will happen.

It’s not often a rookie has a jersey selling in the top 50 in the league. Ryan’s jersey sales just keep going up. This will be interesting to watch over the next several weeks.

One thing he definitely won’t match MV on is how fast MV’s jersey sales dropped in relation to how fast Ryan’s jerseys have gone up. In 2005, MV had the #3 best selling jersey, in 2006 he dropped to #20 and in 2007 he dropped completely off the top 100 list.

By BostonBCfan

December 15, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

To 4th and goal:

On your 9:40am post………you said it all brother….AMEN to that.

GO FALCONS.

Vikings this sunday will be tough game up there. The only way i see beating them is ball control by the falcons…..keep that viking offense on the sideline and the ball out of AP’s hands. They can do it. Let’s get em to the playoffs. I hope they put that game on up here in boston. sucked not having yesterdays game on up here. had to sit through 49er’s / dolphins game on Fox instead.

By Vick Supporter

December 15, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

I don’t know why people keep talking about jersey sales….I only care about on the field ish…..which Vick can provide with zero problem

By Falcons 4 Ever

December 15, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Yesterday’s win is a testament to the character of this team. A lot of previous Falcon squads would have folded under the pressure but this is the most focused Falcon team I’ve seen in the thirty plus years I’ve followed them. John Abraham is a beast in spite of the fact that’s he’s being held nearly every play. Honorable mention goes to the 12th man, the last three home games the crowd has been very loud and disruptive.
GO FALCONS!!!

By Eric C.

December 15, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

A tidbit from the outside world,

From Charles Robinson’s Winners/Losers segment on Yahoo Sports:

“Loathed: Seeing the Georgia Dome only 70-percent filled five minutes into the first quarter on Sunday. It eventually filled up to about 85-percent by halftime, but the late arrivals were very disappointing considering the magnitude of the game. This is the kind of thing that contributes to Atlanta’s bad rep as a sports city.”

By D.Ellis

December 15, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

It’s not the same exact offense. It’s the same “Style” and “terminology”.B.C. ran a Prostyle offense. So does UGA.

-I highly doubt Mike Mularky took a plane up to B.C. and asked their coaches for a copy of their playbook.

-Surly he would have been smart enough to just Have Matt Ryan bring it with him!

• Who in their right mind would think that B.C. and the Atlanta Falcons have the “same exact playbook” is only kidding themeselves.

By Dennis Green

December 15, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

The Bucs are who we thought they were

By Eric C.

December 15, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Aren’t the Falcons due to win a turnover battle? Next week would be a good time!

By Reality Bites

December 15, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

BostonBCfan, get real. Not that its important, but you really think when Vick is back playing with another team next year that his jersey won’t eclipse everybody else’s in sales? For real, you think that? The Falcons 365 stores are trying to move jerseys by having a 2 Jerseys 2 Tickets Sale!!! Do you not have eyes? Can’t you look at the people in the Dome and see very clearly that the majority are not in a team jersey at all. Thank goodness for the red and black seats!

By Vick Supporter

December 15, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Free Vick

By Vick Supporter

December 15, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Exodus Mentality makes some excellent statements. You people should listen…….

By Reality Bites

December 15, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Well Eric C., maybe the guy from Yahoo Sports think the Dome should have been full. I guess he must think this is a city that has enough “fans” that would PAY to see the Falcons play and fill the Dome up……NOT. The only thing it has is a hometown newspaper that spurns hate and can get a lot of comments from “virtual fans”. Yep, the “virtual fan” is the one that only supports over the net…and really, the Falcons dont have many of those either, its just a lot of people who get on here to hate Vick and claim they’re a fan. LOL. For all of the “I love this team” you read on these blogs, think of the empty seats and ask exactly how much love is there in reality?

By D.Ellis

December 15, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

I don’t care how many empty seats there are, or jersey’s sold or not sold or sales on jersey’s or flags or decals or whatever…. as long as they win.

Just know this. IF and that is a big IF the Falcons make the playoffs…the dome will be sold out.

-Anyone else think Joe Flacco secured the ROY of the year trophy last night :)

By dacha

December 15, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

not to burst anyone’s deflated bubble, but Ryan did have a TD pass against…it was just supposedly “fumbled” on the one yard line.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

I said it was not goin t be pretty. This was two teams who had not lost back to back games all season. These were two good teams who were playing cautiouslt to a point of giving the game away. the Falcons, however, throughout the game, we had many opportunities to route Tampa. We gave up two interceptions and the referees took away one of our touchdowns. The Falcons, however, took the touh shoots and came out swingin in the overtime. This win definitely has build character and provide additional “SWAG” to our young team in this learning process. They are taking teams down “ONE GAME AT A TIME”. And with each game, they are learning how to play together in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!”. Hey, did you see Coach Smitty going face to face, protecting his player from an opposing Bucanneer on the the Falcon sideline? That was awesome and reflects the unity the coaches and the players have for one another when they are in the trenches. I’ll fight in a fox hole with Smitty anytime. The man got “heart” so you know that these Falcons reflect the personality of all their coaches, who are pretty, damn tough, and gritty. This is the stuff that franchise are built on and we have it here in Atlanta.

The fans, by the way, great at the Dome. WWe took no prisoners in cheering for the home team. It really felt good sitting around thousands of fans, in a playoff atmosphere, cheerin for our Falcons in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”. What a feeling!! What a game!

Now its off to Minnesota to tear up some Viking butt. I am more than confident that the Falcons win these last two ames and put these “naysayers’ to rest for the year. We are oin to the playoff. And remember, We are going to do it in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”: AS A TEAM AND AS AN ATALNTA FALCON FOOTBALL COMMUNITY.

THE “BEAT” IS GETTING STRONGER: THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! THUMP!…………..

GO FALCONS!!!!!! BRING THEM ON!!!!

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

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Thisis a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

     "ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY"

Ringold

By GoldenRichards

December 15, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

The Falcons recently got the best endorsement from a future hall of famer. Basically, Steve Young echoed what I have been saying about Matt Ryan all along; and that is that Ryan looks like a hall-of-famer right now, which is amazing since he is only a rookie. I KNEW SOMEONE ELSE WOULD NOTICE IT AS WELL. STEVE YOUNG HAD THE HIGHEST PASSING RATING OF ANY QB IN NFL HISTORY. IF YOUNG FEELS MATT RYAN WILL MAKE THE HOF, THEN THOSE WORDS ARE GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME AND ARE LIKE GOLD. The Falcons have themselves a keeper in Matt Ryan, and their team is formidable to go deep into the playoffs as well. I feel that if the Falcons just happen to sneak into the playoffs they just might surprise some people and go ALL THE WAY and bring home the Lombardi trophy for being World Champs. Its not far fetched when you think about it. Most experts thought the Giants were the best team in the NFL; and they lost to the lowly Dallas Cowboys yesterday who dont scare anyone either. I believe this season MORE THAN ANY OTHER PRIOR is totally up for grabs and any of the teams that make the post-season could possibly win the superbowl. I think the Falcons have a legitimate chance to win the superbowl this year. That would be quite a refreshing change from the Mike Vick/Bobby Petrino fiasco of a year ago. I didnt think this franchise would ever recover from the Mike Vick Embarrasement and recover in one year and come back and win a title; THAT WOULD BE THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PRESENT.

By Dennis Green

December 15, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

The Vick Supporters are who we thought they were.

DUMB -AZZZES.

By falcon fan

December 16, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

GO FALCONS

By richbrave

December 17, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Hey GOLDEN:

They’s somptin’ “Golden” about you all right, and it ain’t what you’re sayin’.

By Eric C.

December 17, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

How can we possibly clinch this week? According to ESPN…we can! See excerpt from the ESPN playoff picture.

FROM ESPN:

The Falcons clinch a playoff spot with:

1) A victory over Minnesota and Tampa Bay loss and Dallas loss OR 2) A victory over Minnesota and Tampa Bay loss and Dallas tie and Philadelphia loss OR 3) A victory over Minnesota and Tampa Bay loss and Philadelphia loss and Chicago loss or tie OR 4) A victory over Minnesota and Tampa Bay loss and Philadelphia loss and Dallas clinches strength of victory tiebreaker over Chicago

By Thad Charris

December 19, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

but what happens if the Falcons win, the vikings lose, the cowboys tie and the bears drop some timber in the woods? Does the pope decide the tiebreaker, breaker one nine, we got us a convoy, yes we got a mighty convoy running through the night, come on and join our convoy, aint she a beautiful sight…..

By Roger in China

December 20, 2008 6:44 AM | Link to this

How does one get a job doing blogs for the AJC? The bird babe rarely can puts together a complete sentence, knows little about football and has little writing ability at all(well maybe on an eighth grade level). Does anyone expect more than what the ajc is providing on this blog?

By The BlogFather of Scroll

December 20, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Roger roger that, ten four, breaker breaker, one nine. The bird babe is there just to slap me in the face. You see, I’ve managed to alienate every single editor on the AJC and I have been banned by three of the blogs for life because the hosts of the blogs are so jealous of my ability with observational narrative that they’re sick and tired of being outclassed when they’re supposed to shine. Instead I clobber them mercilessly. I know all. I see all. I am the Blogfather of Scroll. (The BlogFather of Scroll is a copyrighted trademark and any unauthorized reproduction of any publication is strictly prohibited and a felony in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, the Isthmus of Panama, and the Straights of Hormuz.)