The Bird Babe

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

CRUNCH TIME PERFORMANCE

http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?gameid=29768&season=2008&displayPage=tabgamecenter

Keep your eye on … Ryan’s momentum: Atlanta’s Matt Ryan is completing what will go down as one of the best rookie quarterback seasons in league history, but he has not been as sharp the past couple weeks. Though the Falcons won both games with their rushing and defense, Ryan averaged just 170 yards passing, completed just 59.6 percent of his passes and threw one touchdown and two interceptions, while fumbling three times.

————ROOKIE OF THE YEAR FOR SURE :)—-

GOTTA LOVE THOSE CRUNCH TIME PERFORMERS :)

———-NOW ADD TODAY’S TOTALS———

1 (TD)

2 (PICKS)

GREAT HALL OF FAME PERFORMANCE

By ATLplayer

December 28, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan and the defense played poorly. Ryan was off today as he had many over throws and an INT. He still a rookie and looked like it today. The Defense was shredded by the Rams ground game. Arizona won’t be a push over next week. The Cardinals are more of a passing threat.

By BCS Slave

December 28, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

I think it was a great game to watch. However, we do need the defense to tighten up. We will be lucky to get past the first round with a D giving up over 400 yards.

By Former STH

December 28, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Well, birdbabe, perhaps opening it up on a “bad team” is what led to 2 interceptions so perhaps running the ball was the best option.

Michael Turner - MVP - without him the Falcons dont win 5 games.

By This Gets Old

December 28, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Do what I did. Write Bobby Petrino a thank you letter for leaving in such a cowardly manner.

rpetrino@uark.edu

By N2Pain

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

Smitty and the Falcons were outplayed in every phase of the game today. Shake it off Falcons. The demons have Roddy by the pods again, not good. I’ve seen this before from him. Play calling helped keep the Rams close despite the big plays. Smitty, don’t fall asleep at the wheel and send Roddy to an exorcist this week.

By BCS Slave

December 28, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

I agree Ryan didn’t look as sharp the past two or more weeks. But I think that is a direct result of tight coverages and fatigue.

Completing 59.6 percent of your passes, by the way, is pretty good…especially when you are not as sharp as normal. One of today’s picks was on Ryan, the other was on the receiver.

Ryan is a great rookie QB. If we add a tight end who can catch a pass and a big, speedy down field threat WR, his success will continue.

By Rock Preston

December 28, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

The Birds looked like they were sleepwalking in the 1st qtr. I’m glad they woke up. The Saints/ Panthers game was wounding down at the same time as our game. I was dissapointing that Carolina won, but we are in. The Saints would have won if weren’t for Steve Smith. That guy can go get the ball with the best of them. Falcons have to shore up the run defense fast or they won’t last long in the playoffs.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

GET READY FOR

WARNER

BOLDIN

FITZGERALD

——ALL DAY LONG——-

GOOD LUCK WITH THAT

By jeanE

December 28, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Amen to the not ranting about players who aren’t here!! Another ugly win, I knew it would be closer than it should be & I’m a fan! Steven Jackson is just unbelievable, huge & it was obvious no one wanted to get in his way! Again, 1 pass to Finn & that’s it!!!! What’s up with that Mularkey??? Ever notice his catches always go for 1st downs? We could use a few more of those! Underusing Jenkins, too! Bad game by Matt Ryan, no other way to say it. He should go kiss Jerious Norwood for bailing him out, big time! Maybe he’s been reading too much of his own press. At least we won but it was way too tight against a bad team who I’ll admit, were playing very well. We won’t win in the playoffs that way, that’s for sure! I continue to be extremely disappointed in the offensive playcalling, just too predictible almost every time! Bad call on the Turner play but they’ll be bad calls, they just have to be overcome. I’m proud of this team, just want less mistakes! Go Birds, congratulations & thanks for taking that bitter losing taste out of our mouths! Now let’s go to Arizona & rattle Kurt Warner’s cage!! Whoo hooo!

By Nickster79

December 28, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Today’s win was ugly and the Carolina win was heartbreaking, but put things in perspective. According to most pundits (who get paid to just spout of opinions with no research), we should have been one of the worst teams in the NFL.

Instead, we are going to the playoffs! Also, don’t lose the fact that despite a poor showing overall by the defense, there were 3 crucial turnovers they had to overcome and they stopped a hot offense down the stretch when it counted the most.

By Falcon Freddie

December 28, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t worry too much about Arizona. As long as teams aren’t allowed to pass rush or tackle Matt Ryan, Atlanta will have a chance. Congratulations to one of last year’s worst Offensive Lines in improving to “give up” only 16 sacks this year after 47 last year. The WWF has finally come to the NFL.

By SFBayAreaFalcon

December 28, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

we are in the tournament. we can duplicate what the giants accomplished last year. we have a very solid running game. matty ice has been a little interception happy the past few games but i have faith in his decision making. i know the doubters will say his inexperience may catch up with him in the playoffs. i believe if he plays within himself that combined with our solid running attack we can go deep into the playoffs. the first step is beating arizona. our d line needs to put pressure on kurt warner. they have no running game but we have to play the run honestly. warner will crack under pressure. larry fitzgerald and anquan boldin are beasts!! that’s why i believe putting warner on his behind multiple times will be essential to our victory. go Falcons!!!!!

By RYAN SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

MATT RYAN AND THE FALCONS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS! THAT’S THE BOTTOM-LINE!!

LOVE IT HOW ALL THE VICK MORONS WOULD POINT OUT THE TEAM’S WINNING RECORD WITH THAT HORRIBLE EXCUSE-FOR-A-QB VICK WITH ALL HIS FUMBLES AND LOW-LEVEL INTELLIGENCE

THE TRUTH: CRUMPLER BAILS OUT VICK AND YET VICK GETS CREDIT FOR THE WINS!!

HILARIOUS!!!!

WELL … THE FALCONS JUST WIN GAMES WITH RYAN AT THE HELM. PERIOD.

BOTTOM-LINE:

**RYAN = PLAYOFFS!

VICK = LOW-LIFE DOG-KILLER AND … PRISON!!**

GUESS YOU CAN REACH THE PLAYOFFS WITHOUT

A 130-MILLION DOLLAR BUST!!! ;)

By Lee Sunset

December 28, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Glad we’re playing Arizona as they limp into the postseason. They’re losing to Seattle today…

By stendec

December 28, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Hail Falcons. To Hell with the Saints! Choking sons of (X). What is it with the damn officials? One zerba initially ruled no fumble (on long Turner run). Which SOB talked him out of it? Wrong call made game closer than it should have been! Could have cost Falcons a victory. If officials are going to continually miss replay calls then scrap the whole damn system! Zebras have certainly screwed the Falcons on replay challenges this season. Glad team displayed guts in adversity! This playoff berth far exceeds even my loftiest expectations. Well done Falcons. Keep things going in the desert next week!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

QB TOTALS TODAY

ATTEMPTED PASSES

21

COMPLETED PASSES

10

PERCENTAGE

46.6

TOUCH DOWNS

1

INTERCEPTIONS

2

QUARTERBACK RATING

(49.8

——-THE ABOVE TOTALS——-

VS

NUMBER 30 DEFENSE & 2-14 TEAM

YOU DO THE MATH :)

By Diskdoktor

December 28, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Would have been nice to have stumbled into the 2 seed but the Falcons are about where they should be considering their defense.
Offensively, the play calling was good. A higher run to pass ratio is good with a rookie quarterback. If Matt had been a little sharper they probably would have scored more. The defense is what concerns me most. More consistent play in the secondary like run support and man converage is needed. Milloy would have been a big help today. Hopefully, he will be healthy next week. No time for rest now. Next week’s game is winnable.

By RYAN SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

NO PLAYOFFS SINCE 2004?

WOULDN’T BEAT TAMPA AND CAROLINA?

ROOKIE QB STILL DOING BETTER THAN DOG-KILLER IN PRISON?

YEAH, GUESS SOME PEOPLE JUST AREN’T GOOD WITH PREDICTIONS!

OOOOH, SOOOO SCARED OF ARIZONA!!!

HILARIOUS!!

By The Professor

December 28, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan

First Rookie QB to start all 16 games AND make the playoffs.

It’s just killing you, isn’t it?

By Realist

December 28, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

The Falcons COULD sneak by the Cardinals…but with this defense, its not likely…whatever the case may be, no way they get past whatever team comes after that..take your pick, Philly, Dallas, Panthers, Giants, Vikings…not gonna happen. Just not gonna. Ryan is confusing the defense with his receivers, if Turner doesnt run for 150 plus yards, its a wrap.

By RYAN SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

MICHAEL TURNER = MOST VALUABLE PLAYER

Must be the name!

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Without Mike Turner the Falcons are nothing

By intellibird

December 28, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

Another ugly win, but good like that. We can beat the AZ Cardinals the same way. Yes, the offense has struggled the last 3 weeks, but we have won all 3 games.

Historically, we have always lost such games. Maybe, we know what we are doing now.

We do need to get things together before the second round of playoffs, as we may be at Carolina or NY Giants.

Go Bird!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

ARIZONA OFFENSIVE WEAPONS

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/teams/stats?team=ari

———THE CARDINALS HAVE———

(2) RECEIVERS OVER 1,000 YARDS

(1) RECEIVER OVER 900 YARDS

(1) RECEIVER OVER 400 YARDS

(2) RECEIVERS OVER 200 YARDS

———THIS IS NOT ST LOUIS———-

1& DONE

“THAT’S A WRAP”

By George

December 28, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

It was a tough fought game today.

I don’t think the Falcons underestimated the Rams at all. I think the Rams just played very well trying to save Haslett’s job. Stephen Jackson was healthy for just about the first time all year and was a beast as he typically is when healthy. We rested Abraham for the entire second half and lost Douglass after his bell was rung.

Ryan did play a poor game compared to his usual self but with the running game chugging as well as it was, it didn’t matter in the end.

I expect the coaches to have the team prepared for this playoff run and I have really enjoyed this season more than I had any reason to expect to at the closing of last years season.

Congrats, Mr. Blank. You deserve this so enjoy it! I certainly am!

By The Professor

December 28, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan is going to be the Falcons QB for a lonnnnnnnng time. Might as well get used to it.

By Howie in Augusta

December 28, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, y’all sound like we’re the Detroit Lions or somebody - So we didn’t have a great game offensively or defensively….A win is a win and I have a feeling this is going to work out very well..GoFalcons!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

MATT RYAN IS THE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!!!

AND I’M BITTER AND ALL OF MY PREDICTIONS ARE COMPLETE CRAP!

By jsmuga

December 28, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

How can anyone say anything negative about a team that was supposed to win 1 or 2 games and went 11-5. I have loved watching this team this year they never give up.

By intellibird

December 28, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Why don’t the moderators simply ban the people here on this blog who are not Falcon fans? Can the AJC please answer this question. It is obvious who we are talking about. The type of monologue delivered above does nothing to advance anyone’s thinking and, frankly, is very distasteful at what should be a very thankful and celebretory time for Falcon’s fans.

By mountain_jim

December 28, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Jobbed by the officials again! Turner gets screwed by 2nd non-fumble! Replay was obvious!
wtf?

By gregodawg

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

With all due respect-Vick Supporter- You seem to be a little… unsmart. Sure Turner is a key player, so what.

All decent teams have several stars. Abraham, Norwood, Roddy.

You are upset ONLY because of the white guy at QB.

What would you do about that position if you were boss ? Thought so.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 28, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

The Falcons won! Holt, Bulger and Jackson could play for any team. The Rams have a bad record but they have some good players and those three, in particular, played well. The Falcons did not play especially well but the bottom line is THEY WON! Matt ryan wound up the regular season with about 3500 yards passing. That is phenomenal! He’s the leader the team has been needing many years now and he’s going to get better with time. The legacy of the Falcons has taken a new direction this season. No longer losers and no longer noted for being helmed by a criminal, the Falcons are on their way to establishing the positive identity they’ve sought since 1966.

By T to the D

December 28, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

VS2 Supporter: Matty Ice playing again NEXT WEEK with a regulation NFL fottball; MV7 playing all week with everyone’s attached balls.

By vahiguy

December 28, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

The Falcons won 11 games this season. How many have the Cardinals won? 8, maybe 9 if they’re lucky. They are the worst team in the playoffs. The Falcons should beat them.

Matt Ryan did have a bad game, but the offense still put 31 points on the board. Not a bad day’s work. Atlanta could beat any NFC team. But if they turn over the ball in the playoffs they will go home.

By Dennis Green

December 28, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

The Rams are who we thought they were.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

GREAT GAME MATT RYAN

I WAS COUNTING ON 4-PICKS….

YOU PROVED ME WRONG…

WAY TO GO MATTY ICE :)

NEXT WEEK I’M PULLING FOR 4-AGAIN….

SO DON’T SHORT CHANGE ME AGAIN WITH A CHEAP 2-PICKS….

YOU ROCK MATTY ICE!!!

By Singletary

December 28, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Can’t folks let go on hating for one brief shining moment? How about one brief second after and ugly win that assured we didn’t have to go to the NFC North?

Thought so.

Bird Babe, I’m sensing a few Xs, Os and some stabs at analysis. That is appreciated.

Now, put some lovin’ on the Falcons for all they have done this year. One and done, VS2? So what? Look where we ended the season, forecasted to be 1-15. Instead of “rebuilding,” weare built for speed. I’m hoping Lawyer Milloy gets well, and our guys can be ready for AZ. If we play a good game with our team out there, we can win in the desert.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

December 28, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

———THE CARDINALS HAVE———

(2) RECEIVERS OVER 1,000 YARDS

(1) RECEIVER OVER 900 YARDS

(1) RECEIVER OVER 400 YARDS

(2) RECEIVERS OVER 200 YARDS

———THIS IS NOT ST LOUIS———-

Not currently St. Louis but it used to be. Maggot, this team has achieved a lot. You said they couldn’t win. They did! You said they wouldn’t win a division game but they beat everybody in the division! You said they wouldn’t make the playoffs. They did! You’re still stuck on stupid! The Falcons are a very good team and they’re a much better team than in 2004 and 2005 when they had an under-achieving jackass taking snaps from center. Who do you root for now? I’m not aware of a Leavenworth franchise in the NFL!

By Exodus Mentality

December 28, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

It’s Playoff Time Baby!! 11-5 and all the haters have nothing to say.

VS2, every team in the playoffs (even the sorry 8-8/9-7 teams) have something working for them. The Falcons team stats line up well with anyone. Ryan isn’t perfect, but he is certainly good enough to win against anybody. Hell Yes he is the Rookie of the Year, even with two picks today (BOTH of which were his fault) he still set a rookie QB record for fewest. A little bit better play calling, and his stats could go through the roof. (note to offensive coordinator: never ever ever ever, roll Matt Ryan out to the short side of the field again.)

Defense looked lost at times today. Without 55 in the second half we got very little pressure. NO gap discipline at all. But you can’t stay mad at a defense that manned up and held a very good offensive team down the stretch when it really mattered. And all of that can be fixed with a little practice and a few choice cuss words. We got out-coached by the Rams offensive coordinator, but we didn’t get out-manned. Props to the backups for coming in and playing hard.

OK, Norwood is officially back and you better get him the ball more than 3 times a game in the playoffs. Ever time he gets near the ball I expect lightning to happen. A few more wildcats, couple of screens, something other than putting him out as the widest receiver on the damn field.

We have to beat Arizona and New York to get to the NFC championship game. That is so very doable. Does anybody know who would host the NFC championship game if we knock of NY and Dallas (most likely) knocks off Carolina?

By breeze

December 28, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

So glad Brees didn’t complete that last pass in New Orleans. The prick was trying to get a personal record….not win the game!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

I LOVE YOU GUYS

YOU ARE RIGHT ABOUT OLE MATTY ICE….

JUST BECAUSE HE HAS IN THE LAST 3 CRUCIAL GAMES…..

2-TOUCHDOWNS (1 ON SHUFFLE)

4-PICKS

3-FUMBLES

49.8 QB RATING VS NUMBER 30 DEFENSE AT HOME

———YOU GUYS ARE RIGHT————

YOU ROCK MATTY ICE :)

——-SEE YOU AT DRAFT DAY :)**

By The Professor

December 28, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Just keep saying “Why not us?”

p.s. VS2, don’t go away mad. Just go away.

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

@Bird Babe Your comment: “NOTE: PLEASE KEEP THE POSTS ON THE GAME AND DON’T GO RANTING ABOUT PLAYERS WHO AREN’T PART OF THIS TEAM ANYMORE. THEY SHUT US DOWN LAST WEEK AND WILL DO THE SAME IF THE COMMENTS GET OUT OF HAND.”

Looks like your own Falcons fans have slready started bashing Vick. Its not only the “Vick Supporters” talking about Vick. Please read the posts………….

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 28, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

“note to offensive coordinator: never ever ever ever, roll Matt Ryan out to the short side of the field again”

Very very true. The Falcons should keep Ryan in the pocket. Ryan struggles when the play calls for him to move outside the pocket, because protection breaks down more easily and half the field is not available for him to throw to.

You know, kinda like the guy who was here before him.

Fortunately for the Falcons’ offense, the plays that call for Ryan to run out of the pocket are not called very often.

By Eric P.

December 28, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Season Ticket holder. Ten years. Love the Birds. Biggest thing about today is that we keep showing the resilience to come back when down and the game is on the line. Every time you do it, it makes it easier to do it again because you understand what it takes. That’s what makes a winner! Enjoy! I sure as hell am!!!!!

By lynninsavannah

December 28, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

the defense looked like Ga the last few weeks better get it together for the playoffs are we in trouble

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

@Najeh Davenpoop

You’re very clever with your words. Too bad everyone has the “Matt Ryan Goggles” on. I will admit though, Matt Ryan is a very good QB, he’s no Vick ON THE FIELD. People just overlook how bad it was with the front office and recievers dropping passes during the Vick Era. People have short memories

By macbird

December 28, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Kudos To The BIRDS..They Found A Win EVEN After The Miscues! I Suppose The MARK Of A Good Team Is Finding A Way To Win In The Face Of Adversity!? This “POROUS” Defense Will NOT Win The Battle Next Week Against A Super Bowl Quarter Back Like Arizona Has UNLESS They Can Figure A Way To Get Pressure On Him & BUMP The Receiver’s At The Line Of Scrimmage!

By Anderson

December 28, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

The Falcons won today and are in the playoffs. That is all that really matters.

Matt Ryan has been off his game this month of December. It could be just a slump or due to fatigue (“rookie wall”).

Ryan’s final overall rookie season stats are still impressive. 61% completion percentage,3440 passing yards, 16 tds vs. 11 ints.

The stat that matters most is the team’s 11-5 record. BTW, MR started and finished all 16 games.

By Exodus Mentality

December 28, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

Oops, Did I say Dallas? I must have meant Philly, cause they whoppin some Plowboy tail.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

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

Have to give it to the Rams- they did not lay down for us at all. They played with pride and my hats are off to them, but FALCONS WIN BABY!! It wasn’t pretty but I’ll take it.

And oh yeah- HOW ‘BOUT THEM COWBOYS? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA (snicker, snort!)

By Drago

December 28, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan is the present. And the future. Deal with it. Thomas Dimitroff will focus on defense in next year’s draft and free agency.

By FalconsFan

December 28, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

Not to get off topic , but Glen Dorsey with Kansas City had 1 sack the entire season. one !

At 6 297 they play him over the guard.

Guess the Falcons made the right choice.

lmao

By jessica

December 28, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

It’s looking like the eagles are going to be the ones knocking out Carolina….and we would host if it’s a Falcons vs. Eagles championship game…though a 5th seed vs. 6th seed Championship isn’t likely

By Drago

December 28, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

All I want for a late Christmas present is an opportunistic defense like Philadelphia’s against Dallas. Yikes!

By Mike

December 28, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

to vick supporter: “Looks like your own Falcons fans have slready started bashing Vick. Its not only the “Vick Supporters” talking about Vick. Please read the posts………….”

ya’ll never talk about vick, you just trash Ryan and the Falcons. I just as soon the blog be shut down because I’m tired of you and your #2 crapping all over it.

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

FalconsFan

You were probably one of the people wanting Dorsey. Go lay down somewhere

By Freddy The Fakcon

December 28, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Quit using ALL Caps. Very Annoying.

By David

December 28, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe we are going to the playoffs… what an incredible season.

I would love to hear some comments on Matt Ryan’s becoming mortal over the past 3 or 4 weeks. He is still the man, no doubt… but you cannot deny that the offense has not been firing on all cylinders. Obviously we are winning games, and that is what matters… but we have seen multiple weeks of Matt Ryan looking “off”. I wonder if our conservative play calling is taking him out of his rhythm?

Do you guys see the same thing?

I feel confident we can beat a team like Arizona, but I am concerned that they can put up a lot of points that our offense can’t match with the conservative play calling.

By George

December 28, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Anyone else think it’s absolutely bizzare that the only story AJC runs on this game is from an AP writer? I know you guys are facing staff cutbacks.. but seriously. You can’t cover an NFL game… in your own hometown? Your lead story on AJC.com is about this game…but written by AP? To quote Seth & Amy… REALLY?

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

@Mike

You obviously do not read my posts.

By Drago

December 28, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Falcons get a new head coach and GM in 2008: $

Falcons turn over half the roster, getting rid of certain unnamed players who are overrated and/or not a part of the “process”: $$

Falcons draft Matt Ryan and get Michael Turner in free agency: $$$

Going to the playoffs one season after the critics predicted doom and fair-weather fans disappeared: PRICELESS

By Vick-torious

December 28, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

Looks like we are really missing No 7…

Playoff bound without Vick. More productive offense even when we our rookie qb is off. That must crush all the Vick supporters out there. Wonder if they root against the Falcons.

You can feel better knowing that he has a great seat for the game… albeit behind bars .

BWAAAA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

By Falconer

December 28, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

George, I know a little about what the reporters do at the game. You’ll notice the AP story doesn’t have quotes. That’s what the AJC folks are spending their time getting for us. I watched the game and basically know what happened. I’m eager to see what the coaches and players say. Stay tuned.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 28, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

“we have seen multiple weeks of Matt Ryan looking “off”. I wonder if our conservative play calling is taking him out of his rhythm?”

I think it’s a combination of defenses having more film of Ryan to study and being more prepared to attack his weaknesses, and the Falcons calling more rollout plays off play-action that unnecessarily expose him to pressure.

Looking ahead to the Arizona game… Arizona can pass the ball, and they get decent pressure on the quarterback but that’s about it. They are not great at limiting yardage, and they are terrible at running the ball. The Falcons can win that game if they stick to their strength, which is running the ball and controlling the clock. Defensively Abraham’s health will be absolutely crucial — with him, the Falcons can throw Warner off his game and disrupt the Cardinals’ timing-based passing offense, but without him Warner will have all day to pick apart the Falcons’ secondary.

By falcon12

December 28, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

Way to go Falcons! C’mon folks a win is a win in the NFL. You are not going to be perfect all the time. These guys know how to overcome mistakes and get the job done. We are in the playoffs with a good chance to win a few games. Remember, we had zero expectations for this team 17 weeks ago.

Go Birds!!!!!

By Manny

December 28, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

I don’t think they underestimated the Rams. The Rams has some good tools. Plus, Steven Jackson is a beast. And they played like they had nothing to lose, so they made some gambles that worked.

That being said, the Falcons just have more tools. Michael Turner should be considered MVP. Michael Jenkins is our burner. Matt Ryan just provides great service and comfortability in this offense. And the offensive line truly deserves any and every accolade you can put on an offensive line.

Now, on to some controversy:

I was thinking: back in the draft last year, I thought that we shouldn’t have drafted Matt Ryan. I thought that Ryan would be the first QB taken, but my thoughts were that if we got that nice DT, we could have gotten a QB later on.

And that QB that we probably would have gotten was this kid named Joe Flacco.

Matt Ryan is better than Joe Flacco, IMO. But not that much better. Would we have been better served by picking up that DT AND Joe Flacco? Or is Matt Ryan being picked as #3 still the best option?

Me, I would have picked up Joe Flacco AND Dorsey. Matt Ryan is a good QB, but I believe that we could have won the same amount of games with Joe Flacco that we won with Matt Ryan.

Just my opinion.

By old coot

December 28, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

VS2 you stick to supporting Vick, I’ll pull for my team the Falcons. Maybe you can get a conjugal with your hero.

By George

December 28, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

Falconer, thanks. I hope you’re right. But no story after almost three hours is a bit much. And given the other changes we’ve seen there in the past few months… I remain concerned.

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

@Vick-torious

The Falcons had alot of things fall in their favor. Think about it, r you’re probably not smat enough

By Drago

December 28, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

Drafting Ryan and Baker in the first round was part of the “process” which resulted in an 11-5 season. Too early to label Dorsey a bust but he had a very disappointing first season. It’s why Thomas Dimitroff is where he is and why we are armchair GM’s…

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 28, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

“Playoff bound without Vick. More productive offense even when we our rookie qb is off. That must crush all the Vick supporters out there.”

I can’t speak for other Vick supporters, but I don’t feel “crushed” at all. In fact I feel vindicated that the Falcons finally did the things I’ve been saying they should do for years — hire a coach with a proven NFL track record, invest a first-round pick in an offensive lineman, etc. — and those things have paid off. The only thing that disappoints me is that Vick isn’t around to be a part of Mike Smith’s “process”, because I think he would have fit into it pretty well. I hope when Vick rejoins the NFL he has the privilege of playing under a similarly effective coaching staff.

By George

December 28, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

AJC bashing aside (seriously, I’m not bashing… just concerned), what an amazing season!! I was the first to be concerned with the hiring of Dimitroff… further concerned by the hiring of Smith. I’m so happy to be completely wrong. Who knows how far we will make it… just to be where we are is worth celebrating. Congrats to the Falcons organization and all the players for banding together for a memorable season!

By Exodus Mentality

December 28, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

You can speak for me on that one Najeh.

By Vick Supporter

December 28, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

@Najeh Davenpoop

What do you think I’ve been saying?

By falcon12

December 28, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

Manny,

I agree with you on all your points except of course your controversy question. First of all, this is a question off of what we know now and not then. So with that said, Joe Flacco would not be guaranteed because it would involve a trade. Matt Ryan was guaranteed once he was not taken in the first two picks and Dimitroff went with the trade for Baker and that backs up the offenensive line point of how good they have been this year. Now, if Ryan was selected before the Falcons could get him , then take Dorsey and hope for a trade for Flacco.

By woodie

December 28, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

Hey, It wasn’t pretty but we’re in the playoffs…woohoo !!!

By UcantCLA

December 28, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

LETS PLAY THE STAT GAME

SEASON 2 VICK: 81.6 QB RAITNG(THE HIGHEST IN HIS CARRER) 75.7 LIFETIME RATING SEASON 1 RYAN: 89.7 QB RATING

Vick is still part of the roster and I cant wait to see what we get for him when we trade his rights to the chiefs or lions.

By Coz109

December 28, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

Dimitroff, Smith, Turner, Ryan: Change we can believe in!

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 28, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

@Manny:

My opinion around the time of the draft, as it has been around the time of every draft for as long as I can remember, was that the Falcons should draft an offensive lineman. I wanted Jake Long, until the Dolphins agreed to pick him #1. At that point I wanted the Falcons to trade down to somewhere between 10-20 in the first round, get some extra draft picks, pick a lineman in the mid-first round (such as the Broncos’ Ryan Clady for example, who has only given up 0.5 sacks all season), and get Brian Brohm (who was the QB I liked most in the ‘08 draft, more than Ryan or Flacco) in the 2nd round. I was OK with drafting Dorsey at #3, but that wasn’t my first choice.

Like pretty much everyone else, I had no idea Ryan or Flacco would have as much success in their rookie season as they have had. I agree with your assessment that Ryan is slightly but not significantly better than Flacco right now. I don’t think it would have been a good idea to pick Dorsey and Flacco, because that would have meant trading back up to get Flacco and losing out on the chance to upgrade the O-line in the first round.

Picking Ryan at #3 has certainly worked out for the Falcons this year, and Ryan deserves the Rookie of the Year award for bringing his team into the playoffs. But as with all drafts, only time will tell as to whether or not the Falcons would have been better off trading down. (An extreme example of this is how the national media was tearing apart the Texans for picking Mario Williams over Vince Young after their rookie seasons — it’s pretty clear now that Williams is on his way to a great career while Young looks like the next mega bust QB.) Whether or not Ryan is better than Flacco (or my guy Brohm for that matter) three years from now will really determine whether Dimitroff made the right decision in picking Ryan at #3.

But even if Flacco or anyone else in this draft ends up being better than Ryan, I don’t think there’s any doubt at this point that barring injury (or prison sentence) Ryan will be good for a long time. So in that sense I don’t think the Falcons are ever gonna feel like they made the wrong decision.

By Larry J

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

Well, “Bird Babe,” let’s not forget that the officials SCREWED the Falcons on that “fumble” by Michael Turner at the 2-yard line. That was a joke. His knee was clearly down; even the buffoons on Fox admitted it.

It wasn’t pretty, but it was a win. 11-5 and a spot in the playoffs is far beyond what ANYONE predicted prior to the season.

By Drago

December 28, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Falcons are not going to trade him until we got some of his bonus money back. But since he mismanaged his money and went bankrupt he can’t pay the Falcons. Also he is more radioactive then PacMan, who was traded while still suspended. He is still technically suspended until further notice and this is without considering he was busted for pot and lied to the commish.

By RA

December 28, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

I can’t speak to what other people are thinking and or feeling right now, and I will definately never go so far as to say what others should be thinking and feeling, but I will say that I feel a profound sense of gratitude toward everyone in the Falcon’s organization that have made this year what it’s been. I don’t know if any of them will see this message, but if so, I just want to say honestly and sincerely, thank you.

By falcon12

December 28, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter 2,

Wo do you think you are! Your remarks our off color. You do not know who is reading your post. I am sure there is some young falcon fans on here reading your foul mouth . Make your point in a more civilized way!

By mike

December 28, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

HEY VICK SUPPORTER 2… YOUR TEAM IS 9-7 AND GOT BLOWN OUT PLENTY. YOU HAVE NO O LINE OR D LINE. ALL YOU HAVE IS RECEIVERS. THAT WILL NOT CUT IT IN A PLAYOFF GAME.. 9-7 IN THE PLAYOFFS WHAT A JOKE. YOUR TEAM IS GOING TO CHOKE LIKE THE SUNS EVERY YEAR IN THE PLAYOFFS. OH AND THANKS FOR JOE JOHNSON (i think he turned out a lot better for us than boris diaw did for you guys) now go and sit in the corner and shut up..

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

NOT IMPRESSED

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

SPEAKING OF LEAF

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

—————BONE CRUSHING HIT———-

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

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

THAT WAS HILARIOUS

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

——————IN FACT—————

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

————SPEAKING OF JACKSON————-

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

———-GET USED TO IT————

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

JANUARY 20, 2009

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

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

BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-

BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOURS TRULY

VICK SUPPORTER 2

By crabapplejoe

December 28, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

It truely must be the Christmas season….Stendec commented on the game and did not blame Keith Brooking for the win/loss/tie! I am astonished and now more optimistic for the future of mankind. It was an ugly game, but a Falcon win. We’ve had a few like that this year, but somebody always stands up and makes the needed play. Today it was Norwood taking the team on his back. We are 11-5 and going to the playoffs….what a difference five months makes. I know MR2 did not have his best game today but somehow I do not think he will be intimidated by the playoff hype. Go Matty Ice Go. Best rookie QB ever and a cinch to win ROY.

By jon

December 28, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

An aspect of the Falcons’ season that gets little mention is the kicking/special teams game. IMO, very instrumental in our success this year.

Stats compared to the entire NFL KO return yds allowed: 10th Punt return yds allowed: 1st KO return yards: 10th Punt return yards: 17th Field Goal Percent Made: 3rd Points: 7th

Punt return yards allowed: 49 3.1 yds per game

Good job Birds!

By Drago

December 28, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

Face it, win or lose, this season Falcons were going to be identified with previous coach and QB. Next season will be all about the success of this TEAM in 2008 and building upon it…

By DannyX

December 28, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

The best part of the day is seeing people like you-know-who go ballistic! You know that guy has to be hurting! Let it all out!

PLAYOFFS!!!

By Navigator

December 28, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan had one of his worst games as a starter, however, when the chips were down at the end he made the passes that set up the 49 yard run for the final lead. The Rams are typical of bad teams at the end of the season that upset or in this case almost upset a playoff team. You see the stress level for being bad is a lot less than a team trying to win their division championship. Look at Houston beating Chicago or worst Oakland beating Tampa Bay, it just happens. The difference here is that Atlanta played just good enough to win. It also obvious that the Defense got pushed around the whole game, unable to stop either the pass or run. Forget about the super bowl, and understand this was the team’s first step, having to make decisions about defensive personnel in the off season. This is the first year in a long time, the team can draft/trade for the specific help they need to improve the missing pieces.

By Drago

December 28, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Jon,

Kudos to special teams! We got that and the offense in place. Just shore up the D in the offseason and we’ll be truly dangerous. Oh wait, we’re in the playoffs. Guess we can focus on that for now, right fellow FANS?

By Willy

December 28, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

VICK SUPPORTER 2: Understand this, no one cares what you think or what you say. Most just hate that you’re allowed to take up so much space on the AJC blogs. Insignificant as you may be, you do bring out a very good point: Opinions belong to everyone.

By dd

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

Why is there not a blog about the Gators SAT scores?

By william cranman

December 28, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

Falcons play Arizona at 4:30 on Saturday. Just announced.

By mars

December 28, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

You people who can’t help but to bait each other, have fun! I just want to point out that the officials have not missed a single game this season with a least 1 bad call against the Falcons. At what point do we get NFL and/or network professionals to call our games, both on the field and in the press box? By the way, enjoyed the dome today. The fans rocked the house, and the “Falcon Hater” in the throw back James Harris jersey was thoroughly entertaining.

By Former STH

December 28, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

ESPN Official Attendance: 64, 617

Dang…..and King Arthur wants to RAISE the ticket prices?? BWA HAHAHAHAHA - has it been so long he now thinks full capacity for the Dome is 65,000??

By espn

December 28, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

I hope falcon win next week end! Hat off to the 2008 Falcon. Matt has been found out. you put pressure on the guy he punks out. Turnner is the reason we are in the play off. Matt 50% passer rating this game . Now to what counts Tech you Sat scores look better this year. UGA football player or just a tool for the school to make money. Why go to a school that less that 50% get there degree. And to all school help your player get their degree if you Give a sh-t about your people other than just winning! Matt is a good kid but Vick is still the better player!! one word pressure!

By falcon joe

December 28, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

a w is a w. it don’t matter how you get it. the falcons could go all the way. look at all the alledged good teams that have lost thier last 2 or 3 or 4 games. that’s why they play them as chris berman would say. i’m quite sure dimitroff will address the defense after our superbowl win.

By BCS Slave

December 28, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Mars,

It is true. The stripes either have it in for the Falcons or they just that bad in every game. I do know that they are pretty stupid if they can’t get a call right using reply. It was clear Turner was down before that ball came loose.

We’ve had to beat the stripes and other teams this year.

By Heather

December 28, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

VS2 - What was Vick’s stats since you want to point out one the of the good things that has happened to this team in how long???? And just to point out…..This is a TEAM!!!! One person does not win games. Where one is weak on “Any Given Sunday”, others do help pull the weight….again LIKE A TEAM!

And to everyone about the Matt Ryan interceptions….check the stats of other Rookies in their Rookie year! Terry Bradshaw had 25 compared to Matt Ryan’s 10 in Regular Season because the Falcons are going to the playoffs whereas Terry Bradshaw and the Steelers did NOT!

By darrell starks

December 28, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

BOY THE DEFENSE NEED SOME WORK.GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By bigeasy830

December 28, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Great season by the Falcons, but the Falcons fans cannot feel confident going into the post season with that type of performance. Matt Ryan has been terrible over the last 3 games. Tampa and Monty Kiffin exposed him. Don’t blitz Ryan just play press coverage against the receivers and Ryan cannot throw the ball into a tight window consistently. Ryan’s biggest strength is his fundamentals, when he does not set his feet he does not have the arm strength to sling the ball. I said it in the pre-season and I say it again. The Falcons should have drafted Dorsey in the first and next. Flacco. Flacco has gotten stronger as the season has progressed. He has played against tougher competition which has made him better, plus he is he has a big league arm. Time will tell who is the better. But if the last 3 games are a preview.

Falcons, The Next Cleveland Browns of 2009!

By Drago

December 28, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

ESPN, speaking of test scores you do realize Vick got a less than impressive 20 on the Wonderlic while Ryan had a 32? How do BC’s SATs compare to Virginia Tech’s? I guess part of the “process” is getting rid of all the dummies from VA Tech from Falcons roster…

By Mike

December 28, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Najeh, you made some great points on ARZ. They are one-dimensional with no run game which should help our defensive coaches gameplan a little better. Win or lose, I don’t know that we could possibly get a better 1st round matchup, so it’s there for the taking. Also, the last 3 games Ryan has looked more like a rookie. But he played well enough for the team to win! I think he will have a big game next week.

By jon

December 28, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Turner has 2 fumbles this year - both should have been overturned with replay.

The Falcons could be 16-0 and people would come on here and blog about how bad they are.

Last September if you had asked any Falcon’s fan, player, or front office, how they would feel about 11-5 in 2008, they would have taken it.

The Falcons have a good chance to beat Kurt Warner and the Cards next w/e - if the can pressure the quarterback. Hopefully, Abraham will be ready to go. His absence was apparent in the second half of today’s game.

NFL network replayed the 1998 Falcons/Vikes NFC Championship game last week. I DVRed it and watched it. That game was lost so many times - but the Falcons went to the Super Bowl, so you never know.

Didn’t the Giants win from the Wild Card last year?

By CommunistAJC

December 28, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

dd, Because if there were a blog on UF scores it would make UGA look REALLLLLY BAD.

By Mike

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

Jon, last year the Giants beat TB, Dallas and GB on the road and then beat the 18-0 Pats in the SB. That was an incredible run. There have been several wild cards teams that have won the SB. Also, that is really weird on Turner’s two “fumbles.” After that call today it makes you wonder what the point of challenging is. That was obviously not a fumble. I was puzzled on Rader’s TD catch being overturned in the TB game. I sure didn’t see anything “conclusive.” I don’t see how that call could be overturned no matter which way it was called on the field.

By 33yrfan

December 28, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

U guys are nuts I can’t believe that u are not just happy for the team we need to move on from the Mike Vick era anyway cause he was on his last leg anyway this is the nature of the business if you don’t perform to the cash you your a$$ is outta here and a 1000 yards rushing 10 fum. 12 int’s and an avg of 7wins 9 losses and a playoff run every time our division is sub par to the rest of the league won’t cut it

By Sarah B

December 28, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Whoo Hoo! We are going to AZ! Lets bring it home after that!! Oh, also just ignore VS2 - scroll past it like I do… bye bye VS2….. nobody cares anymore… we are in the playoffs baby…. Not taking the bait….. Go Away!

By Dirt Dobber

December 28, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

espn—-What the hell did you say?

By Sarah B

December 28, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Am I the only chick to post on here???

By BCS Slave

December 28, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

During the falcons game, the announcers were talking about the refs watching “stream feed” or something like that. They said the refs watch it at normal speed. That is ridiculous. If you have slow motion, why not use it?

By Uncle Binco

December 28, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

I am proud of my birds. I stood in the stands today, amongst all of my fellow feathered followers and enjoyed another win in a season that we were supposed to be the NFL doormat. I look forward to the playoffs and WILL be renewing my season tickets. GO FALCONS!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

December 28, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

ENJOY THE 1 & DONE

————BECAUSE NEXT SEASON———-

WAIT AND SEE THE “REAL” SCHEDULE :)

YOU WON’T SEE ANY “DETROIT’S” ON THERE

By JOEMAN

December 28, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

We won as many regular season games today as our best year with Mike Vick. We loved Vick and he did good things on the field, but he let us all down and is a convicted felon. Matt Ryan is a rookie and the sky is the limit. He will never let us down like Mike. Thank you, Matt Ryan. Thank You, Mike Smith. Thank You, Thomas Dimitroff, Thank You Michael Turner. Thank You John Abraham. Thank You Brian van Gorder. Thank You Lawyer Miloy.

We are in the freakign PLAYOFFS!!! Let’s go beat the Cards!!!!!!!

By JOEMAN

December 28, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

We won as many regular season games today as our best year with Mike Vick. We loved Vick and he did good things on the field, but he let us all down and is a convicted felon. Matt Ryan is a rookie and the sky is the limit. He will never let us down like Mike. Thank you, Matt Ryan. Thank You, Mike Smith. Thank You, Thomas Dimitroff, Thank You Michael Turner. Thank You John Abraham. Thank You Brian van Gorder. Thank You Lawyer Miloy.

We are in the freakign PLAYOFFS!!! Let’s go beat the Cards!!!!!!!

By crabapplejoe

December 28, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

bigeasy830 wrote: “The Falcons should have drafted Dorsey in the first and next. Flacco” You’re joking with us here, right? I know its been a long week with the stress of Christmas and all…but you’re joking right? How many sacks does fat butt Dorsey have? Has he made anywhere near the impact that MR2 has? Do you begin to fathom what MR2 has done for this team and this city in five months? Dude, lay off the drugs and alcohol, even if it is the holidays.

By BIRD LOVER

December 28, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

hear ye hear ye my fine feathered friend’s,why do you weekly respond to vs2??!! Each one of you play right into his hand’s by responding to this FOOL! I say FOOL b/c aren’t you aware that “Bird’s of a feather flock together”? mv7 had the football world in the palm of his hand! Not any longer b/c he (mv7) being a FOOL he threw it all away! vs2 is MAD at the world b/c his BOY(whom nfl defense’s was catching onto) is wasting away each and everyday getting OLDER and SLOWER with less of a chance (if any) to vindicate himself! vs2’s HERO/IDOL IS A CONVICT AND A LOSER… PERIOD!!! All of the hate filled drivel toward’s fan’s of “THE ATLANTA FALCON’S” or the player’s DOESN’T MATTER! IT DOESN’T CHANGE A THING!! WE ARE STILL 11-5 IN THE PLAYOFF’S!! Some of what vs2 say’s I agree with!! AZ.’S QB AND REC.CORP’S ARE FOR REAL!! OUR WEAKNESS IS OUR SECONDARY! NO PASS RUSH(wanna talk about a bust anybody seen anderson lately)? Face it…MATTY ICE has hit the rookie wall…no doubt here,however, he’s here to stay in this league for a LONG,LONG TIME(unlike mv7)and will give it his best come saturday! Is this our year? I don’t believe it is we’re a few more KEY player’s away but i do believe THE FUTURE’S SO BRIGHT I GOTTA WEAR SHADE’S!!! NO MATTER WHAT vs2 SAY’S!!!

By JOEMAN

December 28, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Seriously, you cannot be a Falcon fan and be disappointed. WE ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS!!!!

Other folks are in PRISON. Let it go.

By SlimG

December 28, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Without Lawdog and Abraham late, it was obvious we were just a shell of our playoff team. That WildBird formation looks scary good.

No reason for us to show our cards today. I would have starter the second half with the second units. Ryan has had a bad stretch and we’ve still won because of our ability to run the football. Don’t change anything coach.

I retract my previous statement regarding going for it on fourth down late in the saints game. Coach was steps ahead of me by having confidence in the D. We hadn’t stopped them all day and yet he still believed they could get a stop. My bad coach. Great Season!

By Dirt Dobber

December 28, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

We or most of us are proud of the Falcons this year.The Falcons played what looked like thier worst game of the year and still won but make no mistake about it if they play like they did today it will be a short playoff season.I think the offence will be okay with Ryan snapping out of his trance and comming back to earth.the defence is what i am most concerned about.If we can stop the pass the falcons should win the game.Remember the falcons don’t allways play good on the road.I know we had some key people out of the game today.lets get healthy and raise hell in the playoffs.Oh and by the way vick supporter 2 you have to be kidding with your post about the falcons and Mat Ryan.That must be your a* talking because your head knows better.

By saint

December 28, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Norwood is getting it going…great! Thanks Elam! All OL&DL really did well.