The Bird Babe

By JD

January 3, 2009 8:05 PM | Link to this

Point blank, the Falcons defense has one of the worst defenses in the NFL. Even when Mike Vick was playing we should have won more games than we did but we never seem to find some players who knows the fundamental of playing hard nose D. From the defensive line to the safeties, they just seem a step slower. Kieth Brooks must go no doubt.

By Adriane

January 3, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

I would just like to understand what Coach Smith said to these guys at halftime, I mean your team goes to halftime with the momentum to win and come back 3rd quarter and give the game away. What happened? I feel that the line did not protect Matt Ryan, and I felt he was sort of nervous himself, Roddy White also was a bundle of nerves along with Turner. Now Abraham just was double teamed the entire game. As a true female “Falcon Fan”, I felt we never showed up second half and that was the difference in the game. Also I would like to give them the name (The Fighting Falcons), because we will continue to fight to show that we are a great team.

Arthur, I do feel it is time to replace some of your offensive line, some players are to old and slow. Also let’s get rid of the old players not pulling their weight.

A. Mason

By SRF

January 3, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

Except for the horrible whiff by Brooking at the end, the defense was OK.

The thing that cost the Falcons was the swiss cheese offensive line - kept Ryan uncomfortable and they allowed penetration all day that caused the freak fumble by Turner.

By The_Future

January 3, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

KEITH BROOKING?

By Adriane

January 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

I would just like to understand what Coach Smith said to these guys at halftime, I mean your team goes to halftime with the momentum to win and come back 3rd quarter and give the game away. What happened? I feel that the line did not protect Matt Ryan, and I felt he was sort of nervous himself, Roddy White also was a bundle of nerves along with Turner. Now Abraham just was double teamed the entire game. As a true female “Falcon Fan”, I felt we never showed up second half and that was the difference in the game. Also I would like to give them the name (The Fighting Falcons), because we will continue to fight to show that we are a great team.

Arthur, I do feel it is time to replace some of your offensive line, some players are too old and slow. Also let’s get rid of the old players not pulling their weight.

A. Mason

By the profess

January 3, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it, the falcons luck ran out today. The team’s record was better than the team because most teams did not show up when they played the falcons.

By dtzr1

January 3, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Great season.We need to work on the offensive and defensive lines in the off season.

By david

January 3, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

Look it was a great yr. we all knew the D was an issue its a process hopefully Matt Ryan will come back better lets see how we improve the next few months. This is way better than anybody ever expected

By Wabe

January 3, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

FreeVick.com

Period

By Dawgs2008

January 3, 2009 8:15 PM | Link to this

Horrible game. The Falcons wasted everthing they accomplished this season. They should be ashamed of themselves for losing to the Cardnials.

Brooking must have some dirt or pictures of someone for him to still be on the team!

By BIG DOG 1

January 3, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this

BREADY JACKSON IS FASTER THEN BROOKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Wabe

January 3, 2009 8:20 PM | Link to this

I’m not trying to pin the game on Matt Ryan…but let me ask you a question. If that was Mike Vick playing like Ryan did today…we wouldn’t be talking about anything but Vick’s failures. Ryan threw TWO PICS…ONE BOTCHED FUMBLE…AND TOOK THE STUPIDEST SAFETY. He literally along with the rest of the offense took the 2nd half off. The defense stayed on the field TOO LONG in the 2nd half…and then they failed to stop the cardinals on a 3rd and 16!?!?!?! Vick can’t play defense…but what i am trying to get at is if you put Vick in with this team…would they have been a SuperBowl Threat? Think about that…

And don’t be so quick to annoint precious “rookie of the year” Matt Ryan as the next great - - YOU FIND OUT IF A PLAYER IS GREAT IN BIG GAMES - - and so far he’s 0 for 1. Whereas Vick in his first playoff game got the falcons a historic W at G.B.

WE WILL SEE WHAT THIS KID TURNS OUT TO BE - - he’s solid…but still a rookie.

By JD

January 3, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this

Kieth Brookings must go. Next year the whole entire defense probably get cut.

By Jedimonk

January 3, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this

It was all Mike vick’s….I mean matt Ryan’s fault.

By d-man

January 3, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this

Very disappointing end to an otherwise great season. Enough blame to go around, but I sure would have liked to see the offense get the ball back with almost 2 minutes left. No way the defense should give up a 3rd and 15 with the game on the line. Way too easy for that crucial play. I also think next year could be a lot harder than everyone seems to think - the Falcons can’t sneak up on anyone next year. Great expectations for past Falcon teams have led to great disappointment, but like I said, this team has given us more thrills than any in a very long time.

By wwhjr4au

January 3, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this

What I dont understand is with the Cards DL was guessing the snap count all game, why didn’t the Falcons change their cadence or do a hard count all day? I assure you Bertrand Berrian is not as good as he looked today…. Even when they were in the gun, McClure should have adjusted the delay in his snap to trap them….

By NCFalconFan

January 3, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this

Great season. Can’t wait til next year.

One Request: GIVE NORWOOD THE BALL MORE

By sc falcon

January 3, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this

Should have known when the pregame show had more about the Lions than us that it was going to be a long day. The timeout on the Turner run was a terrible call. The fourth and 1 decision to kick the field goal early set a bad tone. A young team needs to know that the coach has come to win. Need more blitz packages late in game. That was abandoned along with the no huddle. Both were needed throughout on the road.

By beer

January 3, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this

We just lost to the worst team in the playoffs - they’ll be trounced in the next round.

We overachieved this year - still looking forward however.

Mr. Dimitroff: Defense, defense, defense.

By BIG DOG 1

January 3, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

I WOULD LIKE TO SEE A SUPERBOWL BROOKING BUSTED MY BUBBLE

By macbird

January 3, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

I Did NOT Feel Good About This Game At The Beginning! We Had A 3 Game Win Streak Going In..I Knew We We Due A “DUD”! Our Defense Is Too WEAK And Our Offense Was OVER Matched Today..Still, We Were A Touchdown Away At The 3 Minute Mark!! My Question: Why NOT Do The ONSIDE Kick After Our Last Touchdown??.. We’re Maybe 2-4 PLAY MAKERS Away From Being A SOLID CONTENDER! COACH Has Got To Show More Ba**S When Down In The Red Zone..He Showed Very LITTLE Confidence In The Offense Kicking The Field Goal!

By Old Atl

January 3, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this

Yeah its to early to crown the rookie just yet. He played like a rookie. But all in all he has no support as far as complete reliable teammates. Roddy “Sometime I can catch” White, No offensive line, Michael “Tiptoe slow b4 the hole” Turner, The I don’t know how to tackle defense and last but not least Kieth “Caught Just Looking” Brookings.

By Jdawg

January 3, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this

FIRE KEITH BROOKING. FIRE KEITH BROOKING. FIRE KEITH BROOKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Jdawgy

January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this

FIRE KEITH BROOKING. FIRE KEITH BROOKING. FIRE KEITH BROOOKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By jon

January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this

JD I love you! Why in the world the Falcons keep hanging on to Brooking? Look at the final play, he suppose to have years of experience. It was 3rd and 16 yards for a 1st. He just stop running with tightend.

By DTZR1

January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this

What you Vick supporters can’t get over is the fact that he created his own circumstances.

By superdawg51

January 3, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

The falcons must address our lack of a big-time linebacker. I thought Van Gorder prepared a weak defensive scheme, but the bottomline was that Atlanta was beaten in the trenches. Brookings must go….how does a 10 year vet fail to cover the TE?

By keep it real

January 3, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

better season than expected. Next year will be the first time in falcon history that they have winning seasons back to back. secondary needs to be addressed to go to the next level. Thanks for the great ride this year Atlanta Falcons!

By scfalcon

January 3, 2009 8:37 PM | Link to this

Roddy White could at least play a little defense on a bad pass. He was visibly nervous all day.

By Eric

January 3, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this

I THINK THAT WAS A SIGN THAT IT’S TIME FOR KEITH BROOKING TO HANG IT UP. I THINK WE KNEW WE HAD A MAKE-SHIFT DEFENSE COMING IN, WE NEED ANOTHER SAFETY AND SOME DEFENSIVE LINEMEN. THE CORNERS ARE YOUNG THEY HAVE SOME GROWING TO DO. MICHAEL TURNER REALLY LET US DOWN IN THIS ONE, JUST DID NOT RUN WITH ANY PASSION TODAY.

By David

January 3, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this

Atlanta’s Defensive Secondary SUCKS’ and so does the linebackers, meaning Keith Brooking

By FreeVick.com

January 3, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this

No…what we vick supporters don’t get is…

Why is Mike Vick in jail for killing dogs and Governor Sarah Palin running for the 2nd highest office in the land while killing mooses?

By jim

January 3, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this

Please get rid of Van Gorder while we are still building this team. He probably will leave to go to another team anyway. I still can not believe what I saw today. A totally unprepared football team from top to bottom. I still think Willie Martinez was calling the defense today. They looked alot like the dawgs today, great offense and terrible defense run by overrated and outcoached defense coordinator. panthers will put a pounding that cardinal a* sunday!~!!

By jackmarascio

January 3, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

despite the fact the birds lost they have the foundation to be very competive for the next 10 years beating warner with his recivers group is not easy to do but it starts upfront with pressure on the passer and big strong physical secondary to keep up with man monsters such as boldin and fitgerald watch the draft closely if the falcs focus on defensive ends and secondary players next year we may have just advanced to the next round

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 3, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

NOT BROOKINS FAULT

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE QB…..WIN OR LOSE

WAY TO GO “ROY”

———-GREAT GAME MATTY ICE :)———

By blue

January 3, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank please sign Albert Hansworth And draft 3 new linebackers

By blue

January 3, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank please sign Albert Hansworth And draft 3 new linebackers

By jon

January 3, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this

I was crazy about Vick but I feel what happen to him was his on fault. He had all kinds of warnings to give up his lifestyle but he thought he was invincible. Give Matt a chance please!

By Ed

January 3, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

The Falcons have lost some games badly and have struggled in wins, but this has to be the first time this year, where I believe they were out-coached and out-played.

All of you can debate if Brooking has to go or if Vick would have done better, the fact of the matter was they were NOT prepared to play this game. From the opening quarter on, it was obvious.

The offense had some good drives and the defense had some good stops, but to be in the playoffs you HAVE to be consistent and you HAVE to be prepared. If you watched the last few games you could see this coming. They couldn’t stop the Vikings or the Rams and they didn’t play well offensively in those games either.

I guess the fact that I’m extremely disappointed and upset about this game only goes to prove that they ARE getting better, I only hope the coaches and front office can learn from the mistakes this year and continue to improve next year!

By BIG DOG 1

January 3, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

ALL I WANTED FOR THE NEW YEARS IS TO CUT BROOKING AND WIN ONE SUPERBOWL!!!!!!!!!!! FOR MY BIRTHDAY i WANT JOHN TO SACK KURT.FOR VALTINES I WANT A NEW DEFENSE.FOR EASTER I WANT A NEW OFFENSIVE LINE.FOR MOTHERS DAY I WANT GOOD WR. FOR FATHERS DAY I WANT A NEW SECONDARY.

By Jake W.

January 3, 2009 8:53 PM | Link to this

This team will never be a superbowl contender no matter who the quarterback is if we never have a good defense. It doesn’t have to be Pittsburgh Steelers good but it has got to get better. Just look at the Colts, they had the best offense for a while but never won it till there defense got better. The offense should get better with time and continue progressing but this defense needs a lot of work.

By woodie

January 3, 2009 8:57 PM | Link to this

Calm down guys, it was a great year compared to what we thought it would be. Dimitroff is just getting started. I believe we are building a dynasty here with the core of young guys (Ryan,Turner,Lofton etc..). It’s tough to win on the road in the playoffs. These guys palyed their hearts out today. Go Falcons !!!! See ya next year.

By Cards all the way

January 3, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

I just wanted to let the Falcons Fans know that they have a TON to look forward to. You were beat today by a team that knew they were the underdog and played out of their minds. But you have a very solid offense, and a great young quarterback. Seriously…..you are going to be a force to be reckoned with, and if you had won today…I would have been rooting for you to win it ALL.

By Buck

January 3, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

Huge bummer of a game. Nevertheless, congratulations on a very successful season! These myopic people don’t seem to be grateful for the incredible progress the Falcons have made this year.

By jedimonk

January 3, 2009 8:59 PM | Link to this

I find it curious that now we assign proper blame to the appropriate parties. But when vick was under center, all the blame was laid at his feet(I’m looking at you bird babe) 2 ints, safety, fumble…maybe we should move Ryan to TE

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

January 3, 2009 8:59 PM | Link to this

The Falcons, overall, played well. Some people at the AJC, and some of you ignorant fans, expressed the view that playing the Cardinals was equivalent to having a bye week. Well, this is bye week, as in goodbye. The Cardinals have a good team and one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. Matt Ryan played well and the Falcons will continue the new legacy they’ve begun. As for you Vicksuckers, he’ll be on his knees, after lights out, but he won’t be praying!

By satch

January 3, 2009 9:02 PM | Link to this

the cards averaged almost 30 pts a game.falcon fans listened to folks who did not watch the cards weekly.so now you suprised.im, not suprised at kurt warner and neither should you.forget about the stupid moves the rams and denny green/cards made.and the political bs in ny that gave eli the job the man still could play

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 3, 2009 9:02 PM | Link to this

The Falcons overachieved. Nobody would have picked them to make the playoffs. Matty Ice had the best rookie season of any QB since Dan Marino. But, today’s loss was all too predictable and I had the Cardinals winning this game and they did just that.

Those dirty birds just got outplayed, out coached and were beaten by a better football team playing at home today. Congratulations to Curt Warner and company.

Don’t hang your heads Falcons Fans, it was a good season. Arthur Blank and the coaching staff will do everything in their power to improve this football team for next season. I just wish I could say the same thing about my Braves

By TB

January 3, 2009 9:03 PM | Link to this

As a season ticket holder who cheered the Falcons on to some unbelievable wins this year, it was especially terrible to see the performance of the Falcons today. After such an incredible 11 win regular season, I watched a totally different team take the field today. They did not seem well prepared or comfortable to even be on the same field as the Cardinals who won less regular season games than the Falcons. Both Falcons lines were out matched by the physical play of the Cardinals. The amazing performance of the Falcons during the regular season was unrecognizable today. This will be remembered as an incredible regalar season that ended in horrific fashion in the playoffs. We have many more seasons ahead to build on and correct mistakes. Too bad we all have to wait for the fall to get rid of the taste of this performance (or lack of).

By GT Guy

January 3, 2009 9:04 PM | Link to this

All you dawg fan idiots want to blame Brooking week in and week out just because he came out of GT. Smarter football minds than all of you put together have him in the game because they understand what he brings to the game through his consistent hard work and dedication. Yea, he blew coverage on the 3rd & 16, but he also chased EJ down from behind for a loss. Brooking did not lose this game. This was a total team failure including the coaches. But hey, the future looks bright and I am looking forward to this franchise getting better and better. One more thing MV is not comming back so time to move on. Matt is a very promising qb and has poise and brains beyond his years and if he stays healthy man on man he is going to light up the league for a few years. dimitrioff needs to get us more help on D and the O line.

By satch

January 3, 2009 9:05 PM | Link to this

the cards averaged almost 30 pts a game.falcon fans listened to folks who did not watch the cards weekly.so now you suprised.im, not suprised at kurt warner and neither should you.forget about the stupid moves the rams and denny green/cards made.and the political bs in ny that gave eli the job the man still can play.

By Stephen

January 3, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Although this was a disappointing lost, this was a great year for the Atlanta Falcons.

They surpassed all expections and I can’t wait for next year.

To all the Michael Vick supporters…please go post on the Levenworth Prison Gazette’s blog or wait until he’s out and go post on the blogs of the city where he might be playing. Remember, it is not a given that the NFL will even let him back in the league next year. If not, I certainly hope that you’re still not posting on the AJC blogs next year during the football season complaining about Michael Vick’s self created situation.

GO FALCONS!!!

By Realist

January 3, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Well, The Falcons finally got that natioanl audience to prove they were not just hype……oh well, I guess they’ll have to prove it next year

By Michael

January 3, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

Congrats to the Birds on a great season!The foundation for future success is in place - let’s see what Dimitroff does in the off-season. I see no reason not to be confident in his ability to make the incremental improvements necessary, particularly with the o-line and the linebacking corps.

By Wabe

January 3, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

To those of you pinning the blame on the defense…i agree and disagree. Here’s the thing…it’s easy to pin the entire game on the 3rd and 16…but let’s just look back for a second.

The offense failed to get a SINGLE FIRST DOWN until the drive where we scored to cut the game to 30-24. The botched handoff was THE PLAY OF THE GAME. After that botched snap…our offense literally caved under the pressure…

OUR OFFENSE DIDN’T SHOW UP IN THE 2ND HALF! For those of you who have watched the falcons all year know that we play 11-5 football when we have a lead…you can’t have the offense going 3 and out 3 times and turning the ball over twice in the 3rd quarter alone and then expect OUR defense to keep us in the game. Going in we knew arizona’s offense was exlosive. A GOOD RUNNING GAME HELPS THE DEFENSE…which is why our defense hasn’t looked as bad as it did today all year…our running game wasn’t much of a factor. The defense was on the field the entire second half…alot of that has to do with the non-existent offense that kept giving the ball right back to arizona everytime we had a chance to get right back in the game.

By Jim Watson

January 3, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

The Falcons have been a group of over-achievers all year…..some of you fans just don’t get it. Their talent level, especially on defense is well below average. In recent games, the Vikings and Saints pushed the defense all over the field. Even the Rams offense looked pretty good against us. The coaches and players did a good job considering the level of talent on this team. Matt Ryan is a future star who made a couple of rookie mistakes. Turner is a good back but not the superstar some would have you believe. He is very slow to the hole at times.

We desperately need Defensive Lineman. A stout DT to replace G. Jackson and a DE to replace J.Anderson for starters. We need 2 starting outside LBs. Boley looked horrible in the Saints game and Brooking is getting old. We need help at safety as well. Milloy is old and Coleman is mediocre. We could use some help at corner, but these guys are young and we have higher priorities. We need a good receiving TE as well as a stud right guard. Dahl is fair at best.

We will not be able to fix all of our problems in the next draft. It will take at least 2 years of good drafts and a few key free agents to reach the elite playoff level consistently.

The problem is the talent level……not the coaching and not Matt Ryan. The GM will do what is necessary.

By scfalcon

January 3, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget that if Roddy catches the ball in the endzone against Denver then we are not even playing today.

By Kudzu

January 3, 2009 9:15 PM | Link to this

Buck, very grateful am I for this season. This season was such a fun surprise, fun to actually be talking about the falcons w/o the constant soap opera, which many on this blog like to perpetuate.

The GM will make this team better. LB’s must be a priority. Need a pass rusher, and a shut down corner.

I believe the offensive line was tired, a long season it was, they seem to have lost some of that firey-ness, smashmouth style, the last few weeks.

But way to go guys, coaches, etc. Thanks!

By e.b.

January 3, 2009 9:16 PM | Link to this

It’s been a great ride, glad the team was back in the playoffs, but this team has struggles all year on the defensive side. We had chances to win this game, and while certainly the Falcons are better than the Cardinals, there is absolutely no excuse to give up a ” 3rd & 16” play!!! That was totally demoralizing, and as great as the play before that- where John Abraham steamrolled their RB back 10 yards….giving up that first down was the sad ending. Damn shame. They need to tweak that defense in the off season, because this is a really good team.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 3, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this

CRUNCH TIME PERFORMANCE

——-LAST 4 GAMES———

INTERCEPTIONS……..6

FUMBLES……..4

SAFETY………1

WAY TO GO MATTY ICE :)

By philip minutillo

January 3, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this

LOOK EVERYONE THE DEFENSE WAS A JOKE NO PRESSURE NO SACKS I BLAME ALL THIS ON DEF CORDINATOR HE IS TO BLAME FOR THE PLAY CALLING HOW WE MADE THIS COACH VAN IDIOT A DEF COACH DRIVES ME CRAZY. WE NEED ANOTHER 11 DRAFT PICKS THIS APRIL TO ADDRESS ON DEFENSE.

By BarryBird

January 3, 2009 9:21 PM | Link to this

First, congratulations Falcons on a great season! It exceeded my wildest expectations!

Now, a few observations about the game:

Matt is a rookie and it showed in the playoffs. He seemed nervous, missing open receivers and trying to force too many balls when there were other options available. He played better than a few veteran QB’s we’ve had in Atlanta though.

One thing I can’t figure out…why not do more hard counts? Why not roll the pocket more?

Turner seemed tired and slower than normal. We need to use other backs more to be sure he is rested come playoff time.

Our need for a pass catching TE was obvious today.

Defense—This is a weakness of the team, obviously. We need another pass rusher, a linebacker to replace Brooking, and a shut down DB. A physical pass defending safety wouldn’t hurt either.

I look forward to the offseason to see what Dimitrioff wil do to upgrade the team. I’m excited to be a Falcon fan again!

By Marc

January 3, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

WHY DID WE GET RID OF DEMARIO WILLIAMS AND KEEP BROOKING???????????? NOT ALL BROOKING’S FAULT, BUT HIS DAYS ARE CLEARLY OVER. MIKE SMITH SHOULD HAVE RAN JERIOUS NORWOOD MORE WHEN OUR BIG 240 SOFT GUY WAS SCARED TO TAKE SOME HITS IN THE HOLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Wabe

January 3, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

I know Mike Vick got himself into his predicament…but honestly…4get about that and ask yourself this ONE QUESTION -

WHO WOULD YOU BE PINNING THIS LOSS ON IF VICK WAS PLAYING LIKE MATT RYAN DID 2DAY?

I’m going to support Ryan - i’m not pinning the loss on him…he’s got a bright future in front of him. But some you same people who are calling this a “team loss” would have it all on MIKE VICK’S FEET RIGHT NOW IF HE WOULD HAVE BEEN PLAYING…

And don’t even try to deny that…

By Gabriel Folco

January 3, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons need to drop Keith Brooking. He is too old and his decision making are very poor. All the defense need to be better. Matt Ryan was good for his first playoff appearence. Roddy White need to catch the ball !!!

Go Falcons for next year !

By e.b.

January 3, 2009 9:27 PM | Link to this

Turner clearly was off his game, and he had a rough week. With the domestic & the loss of a relative, he wasn’t real good today, and credit the Cardinals D for that as well. That being said, YES -they should use Jerious Norwood way more than they do. It almost seems like whenever he gets a touch, something good happens. I do think the O-Line has been real good this year, but today the O-Line let the team down. I think, being Smith is a former defensive coordinator, he knows deep down they need to tweak that defense. This team can be really good for a long time, with some key off season moves.

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 9:27 PM | Link to this

Gt Guy matt is very Promising loser! and than God Vick won’t be here for you clown to blame him. But you are right they need D line and O line help and not a 75 Million dollar QB bust .

They could have darft a lot smater. Matt can’t stand up when heat is applyed . Sam Baker is a bust too. Matt has as much Brain as a Georgia Rock! you clown kill me with that smart Sh-t. Smart at what in what Keep pumping Ice Bird up. New word dump as dirt under pressure!! a High school QB can throw when there is no pressure. Ok smart at loseing. clueless punk . Belive the media they wanted a so call face in Atlanta , they will do any thing to make him look good! matt Gave up 9 point he is so smart! The Cardinal and he is so smart!! Acc Matt Ice brid!!

By Franky

January 3, 2009 9:28 PM | Link to this

Great Season. If the Falcons draft for defense, pick up a few free agents like DT/Haynesworth, they will be alright. But first please RELEASE Keith Brooking.

By bravefalconhawk

January 3, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this

IT MAKES ME SICK TO MY STOMACH TO STILL BE HEARING VICK’S NAME.HE WAS NOT THAT GREAT OF A QB.GREAT SCRAMBLER BUT FAR FROM ACCURATE…THE FALCONS WILL BE GOOD FOR YEARS TO COME WITH MATTY ICE AND THE BURNER.JUST UPGRADE THE DEFENSE AND WE’LL BE FINE

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

January 3, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

By VICK SUPPORTER 2 January 3, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this CRUNCH TIME PERFORMANCE

It’ll be crunch-time performance in Cell-block C around ten-thirty tonight!

By heddy headlock

January 3, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

To this IDIOT - Algonquin J. Calhoun. Did you actually say Kurt Warner is one of the greatest QB’s of all time? Please, he’s a washed-up dishrag. Any QB who had those two receivers he has would look great. Warner isn’t “great”, and never was “great”. He’s adequate.

By chris

January 3, 2009 9:33 PM | Link to this

huge letdown on 3 and 16. jamaal anderson and keith brooking replacements now. seriously enough about vick. im a vick fan but ryan is our quarteback and gave us a chance at the end. our last drive was all passes that gave us the td. the running game was a non-factor so u gotta credit the passing game. bottom line abraham is not superman and needs help to pressure the qb. warner didnt have a good game so credit the secondary that didn’t get no help at all from the d line. d line needs an upgrade period!!!

By crabapplejoe

January 3, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

scfalon wrote: “Let’s not forget that if Roddy catches the ball in the endzone against Denver then we are not even playing today.” Great point…and let’s not forget that if Michael Boley makes an easy interception against New Orleans we are not even playing today…..but never, ever forget that it is all Keith Brookings fault. All you have to do is come on this forum and you will be told repeatedly. Michael Turner did not, I repeat, did not fumble that ball today causing us to loose the game…Lawyer Milloy did not get beat for two long TDs…. ROTFLOL

By STLfalcon

January 3, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

Man, Oh Man, How Ungrateful We Are…

Do you really forget?

And if you do, all the more it says about the season these guys had.

You make it sound like we didn’t belong there

We were there until the final drive. Both offense and defense had their moments, good and bad…

Didn’t mean to bust your Superbowl preseason aspirations

What were you doing this time last year? You were reading blogs from Schultz, Bradley, and Terrence about one man…

Today, we’re griping about a team

Getting a taste of something you really want makes you hungry. In one season, we went from 4-12 to 11-5 in one year.

Imagine the possibilities next year

I for one, am no longer just happy the season is over, I’m anxious for next season to begin.

All of you Vick supporters, he isn’t on this team, you might want to check a different newspaper. And good riddance to you.

Go Falcons!

By Westside J.

January 3, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

Folks who consider themselves real fans have to be honest. This team overachived this yr. # 2 extremely well this year but he began to look more like a rookie in the 4th quater of the season. He was tired its natural and the D coordnators n this league are the best in the world. They get tape on him and take away what he likes to do. That said he should get better. He played poorly today, at times. I have the confidence in him that he needs the ball for a last possesion.

I need a real objective falcon fan to give me one good reason that 56 needs to be on this team next year. 56 had no business on this team. I have been hearing that he provides leadership. WHERE? i havn’t seen it. Leadership is making the obvious play. 50 had the check down. The only good that I can see coming out of the lost is that CollinWorth had the GUTTS to call him out. Objective fans know that he hasn’t earned the right to be on the roster since 05. This is a young mans game. Can someone on this blog or the AJC address this. Is it MARKETING , TECH kid Local product, Some fans need someone that they can connect with on sundays . I hate to drop those code words but I cant see any other reason for 56 to make this roster.

I have been a season ticket holder for ten yrs. Atlanta native and have grown up watching this team every sunday. I am ready to trust this new adminstration, but if they dont have the GUTTS to make the move to move 56to the scouting dept, or make him the Senior Assistant to the Assistant Vice Pres. of Nacho Sales we wont ever get over the hump. This paper should take a risk and call the new GM out.

By Cap

January 3, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

I know many don’t want to hear Vick’s name anymore but in the zeal to cleanse the franchise of Vick’s former presence and annoint Matt Ryan the new savior, some harsh realities are being ignored. I have no doubt that Ryan will ultimately end up being the Falcons all-time leading passer or at least second to Bartkowski. Doesn’t amount to a hill of beans. Same thing is going on in New Orleans. Aaron Brooks came out like gangbusters and led the Saints to their first ever playoff win. The team accomplished very little in subsequent seasons and the fans were eager to jettison Brooks although he was the second all-time leading passer in Saints history when he was released after only the beloved Archie Manning who accomplished nothing in his career. Why, because the Saints are historically one of the worst franchises in NFL history and the Falcons are not far behind. Drew Brees is going down the exact same road as Brooks and no one seems to notice. So don’t be surprised when Ryan isn’t catching anyone by surprise within the next couple of seasons much like it only took the league a few seasons to realize that if you throw the kitchen sink at Vick, the rest of the Falcons are below average at best.

By crabapplejoe

January 3, 2009 9:44 PM | Link to this

Big Dog 1 wrote: “I WOULD LIKE TO SEE A SUPERBOWL BROOKING BUSTED MY BUBBLE” so it had nothing to do with Turner fumbling for a touchdown, Milloy getting beat for two long TDs, White dropping everything but his girlfriend, Abraham not showing up? It was really all Brookings fault? Go back to bed and put a black jock strap over your nose. pleez

By SickandTired

January 3, 2009 9:44 PM | Link to this

Let me get this straight…some people want to blame this loss on the Defense. My god, the DEFENSE gave up in real terms 21 points. The defense picked a pass off. The offense gave the Cardinals 9 points in a TD and a safety….we win the game without that crap. We’ve really got some smart people in here.

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 9:48 PM | Link to this

Matt only good for one half oh he is so smart.

Dumb as a Georgia outhouse’ He can read defensive only one 1th down in the third quarter. Next year will be worst . He can’t stand to get hit you heard it frist right here!!

By callmeguf

January 3, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

After reading your rags headlines and reading the articles written by your sub-par reporters I was vwery excited your over-rated snotlanta falcoons were coming to the valley of the sun to entertain and just beat us bloodly, you guys really suck. Thank God we had 3 doors down to feed our entertainment side as your football team leaves alot to be desired. No wonder Vick turned to the dogs for fun and sport, his team-mates sure could’nt provide him much. Thanks for visiting during Jan. and giving us such a rough time, come back in July or August and play a little ball in our Dry Heat, Hillbilly losers…..

By GT Guy

January 3, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

“Rush” Let me guess you are a MV supporter. Figures. Matt had a bad game but SO DID THE REST OF THE TEAM. Roddy “how many balls can I drop” White did not exactly shine tonight, nor did the “Golden” M Turner or the whole dang defense or the No risk “when the game is on the line” coaching staff.
So keep pinning for MV - he will never play in the ATL again. He was talented, but stupid. What a waste.

By Wabe

January 3, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

The falcons just played deal or no deal. They got into the playoffs and took the deal. Period. They played like they were satisfied with how far they got.

This was a game that they could’ve…should’ve…and would’ve won.

Why be satisfied when you left so much on the field?

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

If you don’t get a defense save yo money for season tickets. who will be our new QB. they have found out matt can’t stand pressure and getting hit. The last five game has showen you what matt relly is as a qb. oh yea you say I am hating oh no just pointing out a fact!!

By T-Town Dawg

January 3, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

Rush led bottom, go back and read your last 2 posts. You should never call anyone dumb, dumba$$. I’ve decided that I will not argue Ryan over Vick with you or Vicks Jockstrap1 and 2 anymore. There is no use because all of you are “color blind”. Real football people know what Ryan brings to the table and what Vick did not. You are all losers.

By J

January 3, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this

Atlanta was over hyped by everyone, plain and simple…most of you analyst should have seen this coming. Everyone saying the Falcons basically had a BYE with this game, well they do…bye bye.

By J

January 3, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

Atlanta was over hyped by everyone, plain and simple…most of you analyst should have seen this coming. Everyone saying the Falcons basically had a BYE with this game, well they do…bye bye.

By jj

January 3, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

Atlanta was over hyped by everyone, plain and simple…most of you analyst should have seen this coming. Everyone saying the Falcons basically had a BYE with this game, well they do…bye bye.

By SDAZFAN07

January 3, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

I am a Arizona Cardinal Fan and was at the game. I was not too sure going in if my team was going to come out on top. The Falcons and their offense was a pretty formidable foe. Especially your QB Ryan and Michael Turner, but I have to say it was truly a great game played by both teams. I’m happy we won, but don’t let this be a let down for your Falcons, they will be back!

By crabapplejoe

January 3, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

Westside J wrote: ” need a real objective falcon fan to give me one good reason that 56 needs to be on this team next year. 56 had no business on this team. I have been hearing that he provides leadership. WHERE? i havn’t seen it. Leadership is making the obvious play. 50 had the check down. The only good that I can see coming out of the lost is that CollinWorth had the GUTTS to call him out. Objective fans know that he hasn’t earned the right to be on the roster since 05. This is a young mans game” Hmmm. Lets see, where do we start. Brooking is the leading tackler on the team and had more solo tackles than any other LB. He was, again, the leading tackler on the team tonight. I find it interesting that your “young man’s game” analysis tonight doesn’t extend to Lawyer Milloy who was beaten for two long TDs…was Brooking beaten for a TD tonight? aren’t Milloy and Brooking the same age. Why the hating on Brooking…you don’t have to tell me, I know. Did aged John Abraham show up tonight? Did you call him out? Don’t answer because I know why. Did you call out Michael Turner for really loosing the game with the fumble. Not. and i know why. Hopefully, Keith will move on to a team like the Pariots where they appreciate white talent instead of denigrating it.

By GO BIG RED

January 3, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

Um for those of you who say you lost to the worst team in the playoffs. Well actually that would make the Falcons the worst team in the playoffs. I have chatted with some of you this week and you have been great. I just got back from the game and it was very loud. I know we had a hard time selling out but economy is bad and very bad out here. For the record that was the 31st sell out in a row. No one was really worried about that. As for You guys Falcons have a bright future and for those who still talk about Vick what is that about. I guess we dont get why you do that out here. Dude is starting QB in prison league let him go. Back to the game Fact is Cards are a better team they had nothing to play for for three weeks so everyone gave up on them. I told you they would show up and win this game and everyone said I was nuts. But your not alone 49 out of the 50 states on espn.com said we would get crushed. Guess that makes us the smartest state in America. Great game dont hang your heads there is always next year. GO CARDS

By Esteban

January 3, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

Will all the Vick-hangers-on please stand up, turn around, and leave. He is not a Falcon. He is in prison. Get a life.

By GT Guy

January 3, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

Westside J - you must be a dawg fan. Typical classless piling on of a man that has given his heart and soul to this team and this city. You and the rest of the mutts on this blog wouldn’t even make a pimple on brooking’s hind end. He may not be the player he once was but he contributes every week, dosen’t make excuses just goes out every week and does his job to the best of his ability. He may not be back next year, but make no mistake this was a team loss, too many mistakes from everyone, including the coaches. We have a ways to go on both sides of the ball, but the future does look bright for the franchise.

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

Gt guy you sound like a Dawg. I too hope Mike never plays in Atlanta he can do better. This is loservilles. Don’t blame Roddy white Matt over throwed all day after they punk him out! If you are to blame any one blame matt he cost the team at lest 9 point . They let the RED Bird beat them the

weakest team in the play off. I see you like the new hope on this team! I tell you he can’t take a hit or stand up to pressure just a facts. look at the tape of the last five games! GT I belive you are a dawg in drag!!

By Eric C.

January 3, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

Give Turner a break…he was trying to juke DL in the backfield all day.

And why the heck didn’t Norwood touch the ball more…AJC, can’t you find that out?

Like everyone else…would have loved to see Ryan with one more shot…too bad. That fumble to start the second half was brutal…just brutal.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 3, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

CRUNCH TIME PERFORMANCE

——-LAST 4 GAMES———

INTERCEPTIONS……..6

FUMBLES……..4

SAFETY………1

WAY TO GO MATTY ICE :)

By William

January 3, 2009 10:23 PM | Link to this

I didn’t like the play calling by the head coach today.I think the coach should have went for it on 4th and 1when they first got the ball.It is playoff time and you got to lay it all on the table.You are not going to match field goals with touchdowns and that call right there was a key decision that could have cost them the game.Now if they would have went for it on 4th and 1 regardless of what happen it might would have the falcons momentum to play harder for their coach because they know he is trying to win.The heartless falcons played today and the season is not great.That is straight BS if you think the season was so wonderful.You don’t end a wonderful season like the way they have played.

By sad fan

January 3, 2009 10:24 PM | Link to this

Get rid of Brookings Now! Please

By Jack

January 3, 2009 10:28 PM | Link to this

I have ripped Vick and the Falcons and cheered for both over the years. When Matt Ryan threw a 62 yd td in his FIRST game ever, I thought Vick NEVER did that. And, yes Ryan is good and ROY and all BUT GD!!! VICK NEVER DID THAT!!!!!!!!! Matt Ryan STUNK IT THE F UP!!!!! G0D dmit !!!!!!! ALL GAME LONG MATT RYAN SUCKED!!!!!!!!!! Keith Brooking and the WHOLE GD team stunk it the F++k UP!!!!!! Coaches stunk it the F up!!! EVERY GD BODY STUNIK IT F ING UP !!!!!!!! IF THEY DON’t WIN NEXT YEAR ( as in back to back winning gd seasons, I want them all F=cking fired and DEAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ( Not a threat - just a wish!!!!!)

By MARC

January 3, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

MATT RYAN DID SOME GOOD THINGS THIS YEAR, BUT HE NEEDS TO LEARN HOW TO STOP THROWING THE BALL SO LATE. THE RECIEVERS ARE WELL OUT OF THEIR BREAKS BEFORE HE THROWS THE BALL. KURT WARNER HAD THE BALL IN HIS RECIEVERS HAND AS SOON AS THEY TURNED AROUND. I SAID LAST WEEK IN THE RAMS GAME, THAT IF HE THREW THE BALL LATE LIKE HE DID LAST WEEK AGAINST SOME DECENT CORNERS, THERE WILL BE LOTS OF INTERCEPTIONS AND THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPEN TODAY. I GIVE HIM 2 MORE YEARS AND IF HE DOES NOT GET IT BY THEN, HE NEEDS TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!! HIGH SCHOOL QB’S HIT THERE WR OUT OF THE BREAK, COME ON MATT ICE!!!!!!!! LIKE I SAID BROOKING NEEDS TO GO!!!!!! BRING VICK BACK IN A FALCONS UNIFORM AND LET HIM AND MATT ICE HAVE A GREAT SPRING TRAINING COMPETITON FOR THE 1# SPOT. THAT WAY NO ONE WILL HAVE ROOM TO BE COMFORTABLE AND SLACK OFF. LOOK AT KURT WARNER AND MATT LAINERT A GOOD COMPETITON AND KURT WON, THAT IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT.

By Scott

January 3, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

Rush led bottom, Dude you are really embarassing yourself. Please go get an education……please.

By Jack

January 3, 2009 10:34 PM | Link to this

True MARC… and damn it I am embarrassed for the stupid f ing post but i am tired of Falcoholism!!!! Dayummmmm they torture me!!!!!!!!

By tex

January 3, 2009 10:38 PM | Link to this

Vick was a coach-killer who would never have played for a coach like Smith. He played his best under Reeves, but got Reeves booted so he could play for a ‘buddy’ instead.

Falcons had gotten as far as they were ever going to get w/MV. MR is coachable, not a coach-killer, will work to get better, and will get better (which should be scary for the rest of the NFL).

By MV7.con

January 3, 2009 10:40 PM | Link to this

MIKE VICK: JAIL AND BROKE

MATT RYAN: NFL OFFENSIVE ROY AND RICH

MIKE VICK: SLEEPING ON COT WITH JAIL MATE

MATT RYAN: CASHING CHECKS

MIKE VICK: KILLING DOGS IS ILLEGAL

SARAH PALIN: KILLING MOOSE LEGAL IN SEASON

Good season, Falcons. It would’ve been nice to have Vick in there, but he wasn’t available so we had to make other plans. It’s a shame that some people can’t get past their biases. Looking forward to next year.

By Mookie

January 3, 2009 10:40 PM | Link to this

I knew the only way the Falcons could win with this D was if weak links J Anderson and K Brooking were both inactive since the coaches have refused to take either one out of the starting line up.

By Matt's da man

January 3, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

Rush led bottom, I’m suprised your able to type for this blog what with your lips pressed up against that picture of vick’s a* you keep on your night stand. Fess up now your just jealous you ain’t in the pen with him packing his fudge and giving him a reach around.

The O-line lost this game plain and simple. The rest of the offense played well enough to win and While far from good the defense played decent enough to win, brooking has got to go.

By stendec

January 3, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this

Keith Brooking is to the Falcons what Kari Letemin is to the Loseland Toiletlids (Thrashers). A big fat liability! I hate both the untalented sons of betches.

By Scott

January 3, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this

“JACK” off join Rush led bottom, you are a moron also.

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 10:46 PM | Link to this

Scott education on what ? How the falcons are losers. The hope is a punk under pressure you hate facts!!

By Dug Hi

January 3, 2009 10:46 PM | Link to this

Westside J… you are right. Brooking will not be here next year. He is a veteran who made a huge mistake tonight. Can’t say that the mistake costs us the game, but it certainly eliminated any chance we had of winning the game. I respect what Brooking has done for this team over the years, but it is time to move on. This coaching staff did not have a problem sitting down Boley, who is one of our most athletic linebackers, because he wasn’t making enough plays. It has been a long time, and I mean a very long time, since Brooking made a play. He may be the leading tackler on this team, but he is not the leading playmaker. The defense is designed for Brooking to be unblocked and make tackles. He is a professional football player and I would expect him to be able to tackle. I would prefer that he made tackles behind or near the line of scrimmage, not six yards down field. As Westside J said, this is a young mans game. And once you stop making plays and producing, it is time to move on. That is the Patriots formula and I hope that is the Falcons’ new formula. GO FALCONS. IT WAS A GREAT RIDE.

By jojatek

January 3, 2009 10:47 PM | Link to this

Well… I had it 31-24 Cardinals in the pregame blog, but never anticipated being blown off the ball like we were today… short week of preparation and a team whose luck simply ran out… nonetheless, a great season for a team that finally seems to be in capable hands…

Matt Ryan was fine today given the play of the offensive line (Bartkowski should give him a call to commiserate…); he is a student of this game and will learn from this…

Michael Vick?!! Unbelievable that he is even being mentioned right now… dogs or no dogs, Vick was never going to develop into the type of leader capable of leading this football team to the Super Bowl…

… and, as for Keith Brooking… let’s just take a deep breath, step back, and thank him for showing up every day through all of the BS that has surrounded this team to deliver a steady, solid career for Atlanta…

By bravefalconhawk

January 3, 2009 10:47 PM | Link to this

TO By callmeguf…I’LL TAKE THE LOSS BUT THE CARDINALS ARE GARBAGE FOR REAL

By MARC

January 3, 2009 10:49 PM | Link to this

THINGS THAT NEED TO HAPPEN IN THE OFFSEASON:

1. BROOKING HAS TO GO, HE HAD SOME GOOD YEARS, BUT IT IS OVER.

2. COACHES NEED TO REALIZE WHEN A PLAYER IS NOT PLAYING WELL TAKE HIM OUT. (MICHAEL TURNER SHOULD HAVE BEEN TAKEN OUT, GIVE JERIOUS NORWOOD A SHOT!)

3. MAKE EVERY POSITION A COMPETITION NO ONE SHOULD FEEL COMFORTABLE! (I KNOW MANY HATE VICK, AND SOME HATE RYAN, LET THEM HAVE A COMPETITION FOR THE #1 SPOT IN TRANING CAMP, MAY THE BEST MAN WIN THEN!!!! FORGET ABOUT FAVORITES WE ARE TRYING TO WIN GAMES!!!!!!)

4. MATT ICE HAS TO LET GO OF THE BALL BEFORE RECIEVERS COME OUT OF BREAK.

5. GET NEW SAFETY’S.

6. IMPROVE DEFENSE!!!!

7. GET A VOCAL LEADER IN THE LOCKER ROOM AND THE FIELD THAT WILL TELL THE PLAYERS ABOUT THEMSELVES WHEN THEY ARE PLAYING LIKE CRAP!!! (I THOUGHT BROOKING WAS THE GUY, BUT HE ACTS SCARED TO DO SO!!! TUGGLE NEVER SHYED AWAY FROM A NEEDED CONFROTATION!!!!!)

8. LAST BUT NOT LEAST GET HELP FOR ABRAHAM, GET ANOTHER GOOD PASS RUSHER FOR THE OTHER D-END SPOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By dutton

January 3, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

keith brooking hs been the problem all year, I hve seen keith miss tackles all yer long, not to mention covering players like the one he missed saturdy which caused us the game. get rid of this over paid has been. I know sam baker had lot of srew ups too, but he is just a rookie and he hs a excuse for now, but keith brooking needs to go very very bad. I really mean it, and I mean ithe goes now!

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

I am a buc fan not a neck team fan!!

By Scott

January 3, 2009 10:51 PM | Link to this

No, that’s not it……your just illiterate….. has nothing to do with Falcons, you just can’t talk about anyone being smart or dumb, when your dumb yourself.

By oldbird

January 3, 2009 10:52 PM | Link to this

Good season, but disappointing way to end it. Sadly , next season’s schedule is already out for the most part, other than where and when. We better get a whole lot better on both lines if we hope to make the playoffs next year. Go Falcons.

By B-Easy

January 3, 2009 10:52 PM | Link to this

First of all, I proud to be a Falcon fan. That is something I could not say a year ago. There was not much to be proud of then. Our QB made some mistakes tonight but overall, he played very well for a rookie. I’m looking forward to him getting better. I feel you Westside J, it’s time for 56 to shut it down. He had a great career. How can anyone blame Turner for that fumble? The DL got to ball before he did. Our offensive line did not get it done tonight. Plain and simple. See you next season!

By BW

January 3, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

I’ve had some time to settle down so to all you Keith Brooking apologists….he must go. I remember him at Tech while I was there…he was above average and steadily improved throughout his Tech career to become Tech’s all-time tackler and eventually became an All-Pro with the Falcons. However he is now 33, the last Pro Bowl selection was in 2005, and the tackles have declined every season. Today was the final straw….3rd and 16 and a chance to get the ball back to the offense before the two minute warning…he muffed his assignment…result: first down Cards, ball game over, and a callout by Cris Collinsworth on national TV. I understand that some people like the all-Georgia connection and he is genuinely a good guy at heart but football players’ performance looks like a Bell curve and Keith is on the other side of the hump. I’m sorry that some of you cannot or will not see it but I would be surprised if his replacement is not drafted or acquired via free agency. He was not the sole cause of the defensive struggles however he is the standard bearer for the linebackers and to screw up that bad is inexcusable.

By Scott

January 3, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this

Look Matt will get better, he will learn to throw better timing routes, he is still a rookie. Give it a rest already. This was supposed to be a 4-12 team at best again less we forget.

By dutton

January 3, 2009 11:01 PM | Link to this

u got to be kidding me, Free vick LOL. All he is, is a back yard quarter back, I use to watch him and I cheered for him, but I noticed after a 3 and out, he would be over on the bench in a daze while the offencive coordinator was attempting to show him what he was doing wrong. if he is freed maybe somebody else will pick him up but not the falcons.

By bravefalconhawk

January 3, 2009 11:02 PM | Link to this

TO By jojatek….Michael Vick?!! Unbelievable that he is even being mentioned right now… dogs or no dogs, Vick was never going to develop into the type of leader capable of leading this football team to the Super Bowl…

YOU’RE SOO RIGHT

By Westside J.

January 3, 2009 11:03 PM | Link to this

Gt guy I know why your agitated. I was there for that sexual assault that took place a couple of nights ago in the dome. I have good news I got the guys whole name Lousiana State University..

Crabapple did you forget the droppppped int. by 56 today or the countless missed tackles this year. This is a what have you done for me lately league. Oh the Pats didnt make the Playoffs 56 should feel at home. Move 56 out or upstairs.

By dutton

January 3, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

hey buck fan u dont even have say in this, your team didnt even make the play offs. LOL

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 11:12 PM | Link to this

leader where that is in your mind and the media minds. He lead a INT and loseing the ball. He is a want to be. he has a much better team and his leadships is only in passing when no pressure is apply. Tunner is the leader on this team. With out him Atlanta would be 4-12. Fact

By Jack

January 3, 2009 11:14 PM | Link to this

As usual, Falcon fans make EXCUSES!!!!!! “He’s just a rookie” God dmit he was ROY!!! We won ELEVEN GAMES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Our team was good enough….our QB was good enough NOT TO MAKE EXCUSES!!!!!!!!!! As long as we continue to accept patheticity we will get patheticity!!!!!!! The ENTIRE TEAM STUNK today ….Players AND f-cking coaches!!!!!!!!!! Matt Ryan WET THE BED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Man up you f-cking p-ssies!!!!!!!! Players and “fans ” alike- MAN the F-ck UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If we don’t at LEAST get a back to back winning season next year, F-ck the F-cking Falcons FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

By Cardsrule

January 3, 2009 11:15 PM | Link to this

Hmmm…

Well that was fun. Nothing motivated us more than seeing the quotes from your reporters posted on the jumbotron. When the quote about Atlanta “praying for Arizona” when they found out they had to play on the road in the first game was posted, the already electric stadium became even more intense.

What a great game. It was an absolute pleasure ripping your team to pieces. Nice running game Atlanta…not. Arizona cannot run the ball…not. The rookie QB plays like a veteran…not.

Be awere of what you pray for. You just may get it.

Enjoy your offseason because your year is over!

By MARC

January 3, 2009 11:22 PM | Link to this

BRAVEFALCONHAWK, I LIKE BOTH QB’S AND HAVE BEEN A TRUE FALCONS FAN WAY BEFORE BOTH, BUT AS MUCH AS SOME HATE VICK HE WAS A SPECIAL QB DOGS OR NOT!! HE DID NOT HAVE NEARLY AS MUCH FLEXIBILTY AS RYAN, BUT HE ALMOST GOT US TO THE SUPERBOWL!!!!! VICK WAS SPECIAL IN HIS OWN WAY LETS NOT FORGET ABOUT GREENBAY AND THE PLAY AGAINST THE MINNESOTA VIKINGS SIMPLY CALLED “THE RUN”, IT SEEMS HE WILL NEVER GET CREDIT FOR WHAT HE BROUGHT TO ATLANTA!!!! THIS IS RYAN’S TEAM NOW, BUT ALL THE VICK HATERS NEED TO STOP!!! THAT MAN HAS SERVED HIS TIME, AND MANY PEOPLE THAT ARE SHOWING SUCH HATERED AGAINST HAVE DONE THINGS THAT COULD HAVE LANDED THEM IN JAIL, BUT DID NOT GET CAUGHT!!! WHEN NEED TO STOP CONDEMING AND BEGRATEFUL FOR WHAT WE HAD (THE SPECIAL QB IN MIKE VICK, HOW JUST DID NOT DO THINGS THE TRADITIONAL WAY, BUT DID IT IN HIS OWN SPECIAL WAY), AND BE GRATEFUL FOR WHAT WE HAVE (A PROMOSING ROOKIE QB IN MATT RYAN)!!!!!!!

By bravefalconhawk

January 3, 2009 11:23 PM | Link to this

TO By Cardsrule…U DONT ACTUALLY THINK THE CARDINALS ARE GOOD DO YOU??PLAYING IN THAT WEAK A* DIVISION…THEY’LL GET SMASHED BY THE PANTHERS OR GIANTS SO GET READY FOR YOUR OFFSEASON NEXT WEEK

By my2cents

January 3, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

Congrats Falcons on a great season! Predicted my most “experts” to finish no better than 2 and 14, we almost won our division. So we lost a heart breaker on the road in the first round of the playoffs. So what!!! The very fact that we even made it to the playoffs is amazing. What an amazing season with some amazing individual efforts and some big surprises this year. I can’t wait until next year!

For all you pathetic fair weather fans, stop embarrassing yourselves. All the finger pointing at Brooking, Roddy White, Matt Ryan, Coach Smitty, etc. is sickening and disheartening. This is a team sport people, played and coached by imperfect human beings. This Falcons club is all about team - they win as a team, and they lose as a team. I doubt any of you naysayers have ever accomplished near as much in your lives as these athletes have. For those of you who still pine for Michael Vick, give it a rest already - never gonna happen.

Thank you Coach Smitty for one hell of a ride! Thank you Keith Brooking for a great career as an Atlanta Falcon! Thank you Roddy White and Michael Turner - see you in the Pro Bowl! Thank you John Abraham for an incredible season! Thank you Matt Ryan for a season far beyond what anyone could have imagined! Thank you Arthur Blank and Thomas Dimitroff for turning this franchise around following a season we’d all rather forget! Thank you Atlanta Falcons!!!

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 11:36 PM | Link to this

matt a front yard QB and a loser. The Buc showed what kind of punk you have at QB. Mike tunner he is a man . Smart loser Ice bird ACC!!! Are we Glad Vick is not here to take the heat of these losers. He will do better with another team. To win the big one you much move on neckville hates black stars! so long clowns!

By Rush led bottom

January 3, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

matt a front yard QB and a loser. The Buc showed what kind of punk you have at QB. Mike tunner he is a man . Smart loser Ice bird ACC!!! Are we Glad Vick is not here to take the heat of these losers. He will do better with another team. To win the big one you much move on neckville hates black stars! so long clowns! chargers won!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 3, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this

CRUNCH TIME PERFORMANCE

——-LAST 4 GAMES———

INTERCEPTIONS……..6

FUMBLES……..4

SAFETY………1

WAY TO GO MATTY ICE :)

By bravefalconhawk

January 3, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

TO By Cardsrule…COULD’NT AGREE WITH YOU MORE.ITS NICE TO TALK TO SOMEONE ON THIS BLOG THAT ACUTALLY MAKES SENSE.WE’LL BE BACK NEXT YEAR DESPITE TOUGH SCHEDULE WITH NFC/AFC EAST…GO FALCONS!!

By Rob

January 3, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

We’re all disappointed at this tough loss…but come on, who expected the Falcons to be in the playoffs at all? They were practically written off at the season’s beginning. None of them played great today, although, even with his mistakes, Matt Ryan kept them in the game till the end. 11-6 !!!! That’s a great season, and I look forward to next year. Hold your heads up guys! You’ll get there again.

By Indifferent

January 3, 2009 11:59 PM | Link to this

Although I am very disappointed loss, the Falcons provided a very successful, fun filled season. This was a team that NO ONE thought would be in the playoffs and they did it. I see bigger, better things for the Falcons and with some offseason moves by Dimitroff they’ll be in this position again next January.

Thanks for a wonderful season and for giving me a reason to root for the Falcons.

By Great Falconi

January 4, 2009 12:01 AM | Link to this

I hope ol’ VICK SUPPORTER 2 joins us again next season. After all, Vick will be out of the slammer and will certainly take his rightful place as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.

Right?

Oh.

By ruserious???

January 4, 2009 12:02 AM | Link to this

The defense may have been part of the reason the Falcons lost but they didn’t turn the ball over. The only time the offense showed up all night was in the second quarter. Good grief. Just charge it to inexperience, make adjustments and look forward to next season.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 4, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

LET ME MAKE THIS CLEAR

——-I AM A LIFETIME LEAF SUPPORTER—-

……I AM HERE FOR MANY YEARS TO COME…..

—————WITH THAT OUT OF THE WAY———

QUARTERBACKS WIN & LOSE GAMES “PERIOD”

YOU BELIEVERS WERE GIVING HIM ALL THE CREDIT FOR THE WINS…..SO THIS LOSS WAS ALL HIS….

NOT BROOKINS FAULT

NOT RODDY’S FAULT

NOT TURNER’S FAULT

NOT THE DEFENSE FAULT

————DOWN THE STRETCH————

PICKS………….6

FUMBLES…………….4

SAFETY…………1

PATHETIC—PATHETIC—-PATHETIC

———ART BLANK————-

FACE OF THE FRANCHISE? WELL MR. BLANK, THAT FACE IS LIKE YOUR NAME, “BLANK”.

——JANUARY 20, 2009———

SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR “CASH COW”

By Greedy

January 4, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

QB comp between vick and Matt . Lets play it out on the field in JULY. Lets see if golden boy can beat out a pheenom thats been dormant for a year. My paycheck goes on Mike Vick.

By Brent S.

January 4, 2009 12:21 AM | Link to this

First of all, an 11-5 team should NOT lose to a lowely 9-7 team that won a VERY weak NFC West division. Secondly, what the heck happend to our O-Line??? They protected Ryan great all year long and now suddenly, it’s the revisit of the O-Line from ‘07?? O.K., enough said of that….my MAIN grip is our LOWELY, LOWELY Defense..namely our secondary! Main Facts:

Chris Houston-good as back up but NOT a starter.

Lawery Milloy-great leader but too slow and too old to play anymore.

Erik Coleman-flat out SUCKS!!!! Bust of a Free Agent

Micheal Boley-where was he at this year?

Keith Brooking (my fav. Falcon)-I love ya dude but you just ain’t what you used to be. The Falcons will allow him to retire a Falcon, but we need some SERIOUS speed at LB positions.

Jamal Anderson-HAHAHAHAHAHA…next!!!

Other than these key positions, the defense looked pretty solid.

We need a solid starter to take Houstons place. We need to find a quick replacement for Milloy AND Coleman. Foxworth is a solid starter. Find good back up for him. REPLACE Jamal Anderson….PLEASE!!!!! Build a new, faster, and powerful LB corp!! Get a faster and more agile pass rusher to help Abraham on the other side.

Do these things and the Falcons will go to NFC Championship game next year!!

Would have loved to go deeper in playoffs, but great season nonetheless, and it gave us something to look forward to next year.

By Great Falconi

January 4, 2009 12:23 AM | Link to this

Greedy,

Are you asking Vick to pass the ball in this competition?

By TrueFalconFan

January 4, 2009 12:29 AM | Link to this

To all of your bandwagon fans who are expressing your disappointment with the Falcons lost today, you did not even pay attention to this team till the last few games. Go root for the Giants and Steelers - we do not need your support.

This team was not supposed to do anything this year and they ended up 11-5 and we should be over-joyed at this record. It is disappointing how the game turned out but no one expected the word play-offs to be associated with this team. Mike Smith and the coaching staff did a fabulous job with this team and the best is still to come.

Michael Vick would not have fit on this team because he did not understand the definition of team. He was used to having to do it all and this was not the mantra this team had. Look how well Roddy Whote and Michael Jenkins did this year with a QB who could throw decent accurate passes.

If you want to root for Michael Vick, go buy Oakland Raiders gear as that is where he is going to end up.

Thanks Falcons for a great 2008 and lets get ready to win the NFC South in 2009.

By Steel Curtain

January 4, 2009 12:32 AM | Link to this

What are you guys thinking? Since Matt Ryan has received most of the credit for this team’s success, he should bear most of the burden for the teams loss. They looked bad out there on both sides of the ball but Matt especially looked very nervous and ill prepared. The Steelers went through this very same thing 4 years ago with Big Ben’s first playoff appearance. No matter how you slice it, being a rookie QB in the playoffs is always a disadvantage because you do not know what goes on in the playoffs. The fans are twice as loud and the opposing team is twice as amped along with the game going at a much faster pace. Kurt Warner on the other hand has much playoff experience and will probably eat another team alive before the Cardinals are eliminated. On the bright side, we are still accepting fan applications on the Steelers side of the playoffs.

By Greedy

January 4, 2009 12:36 AM | Link to this

Mike vick is going to 49ers or dallas and yes i will be pulling for him. My vick does not under throw roddy white on that deep route., Matty frost arm pooted on him , poot poot. Looked like the old roddy to me tonight with the dropsy , I am one of the idiots terence moore talks about in regards to vick , its sorda pointless arguing with me , i moved to atl to watch him play!!!!lol

By John

January 4, 2009 12:38 AM | Link to this

Who the hell is “Bird Babe” and what does she know? The defense did not lose this game. Yes, that last play by Brooking was pitiful. But they were on the field all day and kept this high powered offense relatively in check. You knew these guys were going to put up points.

The offense was the let-down. Number 2 back in the league and nothing against this suspect D. They gave up 3 turnovers, one for a TD. And a safety. Please, they just didn’t show up.

Yes, our D isn’t great, but I thought they did much better than I expected. Our offense is where this show has always begun and ended and they were torn apart. This game was won by Arizona’s lines. Mostly their d-line that shredded our offensive line and rushed Ryan and shut down Turner.

By Hurt

January 4, 2009 12:39 AM | Link to this

Hey guys, let face the true, The Falcons ,as a team, did not play well enough in game to win. There were too many missed tackles, blocking assignments, passing coverage assigments and no pass rush. And there were other mistakes and turnovers made in the game. After all of the mistakes, The Falcons were still im the game. The team played hard and did not quit. Hey give the Falcons’ player, Coaches, GM and Mr. Blank a pat on the back. Great Season!

By cee dee 0044

January 4, 2009 12:39 AM | Link to this

van gorder has to go the defense is too laid back, they should have been blitzing old man warner on that last posession!!!

By AtlMike

January 4, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this

I blame this loss on KEITH BROOKING! Arthur….PLEASE LET HIM GO! He has cost the Falcons enough over the years. PLEASE PLEASE FIRE HIM SUNDAY!

By TrueFalconFan

January 4, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this

Vick Suppporter 2,

Please take your love affair for Michael Vick, and go root for whatever team he ends up with.

Michael let this city and the team down with his poor decisions and his choice of friends and associates. I realize that you want to stay loyal to the people you grew up with but you have to grow up yourself. If the people you are with are not looking out for your best interest then get rid of them. Look how quickly they turned on him and offered to testify against him.

I wish Michael well whereever he ends up in the NFL but I do not want him within 500 miles of Atlanta even if it meant that this team would never win a Super Bowl. His poor decisions almost ruined this franchise and they divided this town.

By Steel Curtain

January 4, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this

On a softer note to my earlier comment I would like to also point out that since ATL had the tools on both sides to win this game today, you might have to chaulk it up to an error in coaching. Fourth quarter, down by that much, and the Falcons were playing with no sense of urgency. I wish I would have seen a hurry up offense today just to attempt to get the Cards off beat

By Jason

January 4, 2009 12:44 AM | Link to this

SHORT PASSING GAME! It worked so well in the second quarter. Why the f%$k did you abandon it in the second half? Whose idea was it to continue giving the ball to Turner all the time? Retards!

By WTF

January 4, 2009 12:46 AM | Link to this

You must have watched a different game. In the Falcons-Cards game, the Falcons OFFENSE was the problem. Go read Shultz’s column … there were 5 series where Falcons did something like punt-punt-interception-safety-punt. The defense held the Cards to 271 yards passing, which is actually pretty good considering they are so good at the pass.

By GT85

January 4, 2009 12:48 AM | Link to this

I went to Tech, but I am an avid Falcon fan and even I know that Keith Brooking’s days are over. He has been slow for 3 years now and it is time for him to retire. I hate to say it, but I believe the Falcons would have won Saturday without him.

By John

January 4, 2009 12:50 AM | Link to this

FreeVick.com and Greedy…

You guys are idiots.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 4, 2009 1:02 AM | Link to this

LET’S CUT THROUGH THE CHASE

CRITICISM OF THE QUARTERBACK FROM THESE BIASED FAIR WEATHER FANS, DEPENDS ON WHAT HAIR STYLE THE QUARTERBACK IS WEARING…..

I THINK YOU KNOW WHERE I AM GOING WITH THIS…..

———-CHECK THIS OUT—————

THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THE FALCONS HAVE GONE 1 & DONE…….SEE A COINCIDENT?

————READ MY LIPS—————

FAULT GOES TO THE PLAYER WHO HAD 2-PICKS, 1-FUMBLE & 1-SAFETY……

I WONDER WHO THAT IS…….

JANUARY 20, 2009

STAY TUNED…….

By benadawg

January 4, 2009 1:05 AM | Link to this

who in gods name would fall for a play action fake on third and 19. keith Brooking..We had no backs out in the open flats but maybe once or twice. A football lovers week blown by the birds. Matt Ryan was horrid at getting rid of the ball. It goes back to losing games during the season we should have won and having to play on the road.

By CardsRule

January 4, 2009 1:29 AM | Link to this

Well our lowly a** team from a terrible division beat your 11-5 team on the field where it counts.

funny how that works. no respect coming in, we beat your sorry a**s and you still give us no respect? You have all offseason to whine about your QB and your defense, blah blah blah.

Scoreboard.

We are still in and you are out.

Scoreboard.

We out-rushed, out-hit, and out-played the mighty 11-5 team.

Better luck next year.

By blq byrd

January 4, 2009 1:41 AM | Link to this

Let me prefrence this statement by first saying that I was satisfied and at times impressed with Matt Ryan and think that he has a great future in front of him.

Last year after the falcons drafted him a friend of mine that follows sports very closely made the statement that Matt Ryan was prone to throwing interceptions and that we would all get to see this soon enough. At the time I had no comment because I had no knowledge of Matts capabilities. However, over the past 4 or 5 games I began to become concerened as the predictions of my friend began to come true. Its funny how over the first 3/4’s of the season Matt looked completely unstoppable and the last 1/4 he looked just like a rookie. Usually most people struggle first and get better over time. Matt Ryan started out playing like a seasoned veteran and as the season progressed he looked more and more like the rookie that he is.

It is my hope that Matt will continue to get better and lead this team to its first back-to-back winning seasons in franchise history. Now that will be progress.

O.G. falcon fan since 1966, still waiting!!

By AV

January 4, 2009 2:04 AM | Link to this

AZ cards dominated on both ends. No one gave them a chance, Falcon fans talked so much stuff before the game. I guess Cards let their playing do the talking for them. Early exit for the Falcons, so sorry. GO CARDS!! By they way, for those that complain about the game, you might want to listen to the national commentators who called the game. Should have had another safety and Fitgerald was held on a pass route. Two big plays that could have put more points up and continued the momentum. Cards didn’t complain, they manned up and wooped that falcon tail. Enjoy the holidays!

By Dawg85

January 4, 2009 2:31 AM | Link to this

Ryan made some great throws to go with some bad ones but I’ll take him over Vick right now. I’ll bet Roddy White and Michael Turner will too. Blaming Ryan for losing this game is stupid. How many no calls were there when the Cardinals were offsides? The coaching staff also failed to adjust to the fact that the Cardinals knew when we were snapping the ball. Somebody was giving something away without knowing it. Could have been McClure or Ryan but whoever it was the coaches failed to adjust.

The Falcons were sunk by three big plays. The flea flicker. The long 3rd down TD and the fumble return. Some days it’s just not in the cards. The system is also a little whacked when 11-5 has to go on the road against 9-7. Home field is huge in the NFL — the Giants run last year notwithstanding.

By Crabkilla

January 4, 2009 2:31 AM | Link to this

I thought Jerious Norwood looked good. Why didn’t they utilize him more when Turner was getting stuffed? The defense obviously needs some tinkering with in the offseason.

By Henry

January 4, 2009 2:35 AM | Link to this

Thanks to the Falcons for a good season. We are disappointed in the results to day, as our oline and defense performed way below their past performances. Turner did not look right and could be due to his recent problems that are in the media. Matt appeared to have hit the wall four weeks ago, yet we still had the chance to win the game. Next year should be better, but 2010 is really when I am expecting this team to be very good. We will find some new talent to replace veterans at safety and Linebacker, and I expect an upgrade of the Dline, Dbacks, TE,. Falcons fans we have plenty to be excited about in the coming Years.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

January 4, 2009 3:39 AM | Link to this

By VICK SUPPORTER 2 January 4, 2009 1:02 AM | Link to this LET’S CUT THROUGH THE CHASE

CRITICISM OF THE QUARTERBACK FROM THESE BIASED FAIR WEATHER FANS, DEPENDS ON WHAT HAIR STYLE THE QUARTERBACK IS WEARING…..

So, there would be no criticism, from your quarters, if the quarterback wore little-girl pigtails, had just gotten out of prison on a felony rap and had to run instead of pass because he has no ability to pass? That’s been apparent all along. This candid admission hardly comes as a surprise. Matt Ryan is thr rookie of the year and he had a hell of a year. Pigtails, once out of prison, will have to serve a one-year suspension from the NFL. He won’t be demonstrating his incredible lack of ability any time soon, if ever!

By VS2 is a coon

January 4, 2009 4:03 AM | Link to this

…and so are the rest of the vick supporters. coons.

By jarrodmon

January 4, 2009 4:28 AM | Link to this

Falcons will be fine. Give them a year to draft and trade for a defense and they will be back in the playoffs.

By mefan2

January 4, 2009 4:44 AM | Link to this

D-backs and linebackers is what caused us to lose, the o-line had one weak spot #73, he was the weak link, he didn’t block anyone all game, he allowed the pentration in the back field, Vick was a good QB, he didn’t have a o-line that blocked like they have now, so he had to run for his life alot. his football skills and off field problems are not the same. build up the o-line and spend money to get the better d-backs and linebackers and everything will work out.

By NikkiFree

January 4, 2009 6:19 AM | Link to this

Our defense is soooooo bad. I have every confidence TD will make the correct adjustments in the offseason. Other than JA55, we have no one on defense.

By falcfan

January 4, 2009 6:19 AM | Link to this

the defense held its own 4 most of the game the offense is to blame creating 3 or more turnovers.

By NikkiFree

January 4, 2009 6:32 AM | Link to this

Aside from JA55, everybody on defense needs to be looked at under a magnifying glass.

The OL didn’t hold up against a very poor DL in the Cards. The rams also have a very bad DL but somehow managed to get a lot of pressure on Ryan.

Ryan hit the wall and made a few mistakes but this game was definitely a team loss.

By Kelly, Suwanee

January 4, 2009 6:44 AM | Link to this

Thanks for a fun ride this year! Be proud Falcons!

And, as I’ve said all season long, Brooking has got go. Good guy, too slow. He was the one that seemed to always show up late and he was the nail in the coffin on the 3rd and 16.

By henry

January 4, 2009 7:22 AM | Link to this

the falcon did not beat 4 good qb this year even the teams they beat and lost too score over 20 points on them so stop thinking they a good team.first of all they play weak team because of they last year record next year we play better team and will not win 10 game.as far as white droping the ball in the denver game go back and look at the team we play and the ball they player drop.im not mad about the lost im mad at the fact that 7years ago my tickets was 370.00 now there 1100.00 and we not gone to the playoff 4 of those years.we the only team that has went up 6 out of 7years.lower the seat up stair and tell me you giving a break give me a break.the fans that have supported the falsons for years is getting a bad deal.not once have my tickets gone down or i been giving a break ever year more of my people stop buying ticket because the falcons kept going up.after this last 210.00 jump i might have to join that list of fan who use to have ticket and now just see them on t.v or tail gate out side the doom

By Oldtimer

January 4, 2009 7:34 AM | Link to this

Why the Falcons lost.

1. Too many turnovers. The first one occurred during the first drive that we started at the 50. Should of had points off of that. Just a bad pass by Ryan. The second interception basically netted out to a punt, however the ball was underthrown. The third turnover was an absolute killer. It gave the Cardinal 7 points, the lead and the momentum. Without a doubt the most damaging play of the year. The only way to overcome that type of turnover is to score on the next series. That didn’t happen.
2. Cardinals defensive line jumping the snap count. I really don’t understand this one. The Cardinals defense was offsides twice by my count and didn’t get called for it.. The NFL should review this. However, the Falcons should have adjusted and made it a none issue. This contributed to the game killing fumble.
3. Too many key 3rd down conversions by the Cardinals offense and only one big play by the Falcons defense. (The Abraham tackle for an 8 yard loss on the Cards last drive)
4. Kurt Warner played a great game. The first deep throw he made was a beautiful touchdown pass, on the other hand Ryans first deep throw was intercepted.
5. The Cardinals fans. The Cardinals have been trashed talked for about a month now by the national media. However, when a city hasn’t had a home playoff game in 60 years there is a real good chance that the fans and the players are going to show up with their A game.

By deb

January 4, 2009 7:55 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick is O-V-E-R……time to move on and look towards the Falcons future, and I think it will be a bright one! =)

By Great Job by MOST....

January 4, 2009 7:56 AM | Link to this

Great Season Falcons….amazing turn-around! But please give this guys on defense a break. Break them off the team!!

(1) Chris Houston - Too Small, Too Slow

(2) Keith Brooking - Too Old, Too Slow

By Manny

January 4, 2009 8:16 AM | Link to this

This loss just guarantees at least one more year of Mike Vick speculation and talk. And some of it will be merited because the last time the Falcons won a playoff game was when Mike Vick was quarterback. And until that fact changes, Mike Vick will still be in the discussions.

That being said, the blame was two-fold: the Cardinals outcoached the Falcons. They saw holes and exploited them. What were the holes?

On offense, Sam Baker and that whole side was just not strong or fast enough to stop the D-line of the Cards. They were giving them fits the whole game. And that’s how they stopped the run. They were playing on our side of the ball.

And due to the fact the O-line had holes, they got in the head of Matty-Ice (Can we stop calling him that? I like the player, can’t stand the nickname. Also, I can’t stand MV7, too.)

Matt Ryan was hearing footsteps most of the game and he was weary. I actually kinda felt sorry for him because I think that he wasn’t very comfortable. See, Mike Vick won his game in Green Bay because he can just take off. If all else fails, run faster than everybody. And due to that, he can just win a game with his legs. Matt Ryan doesn’t have that option.

Ok, on defense, our D-line’s hole was on the opposite side of John Abraham. So they doubled up #55. And our D-backs, while pretty good, had some holes in the scheming. And our Linebackers defends the run very poorly.

With all of those holes, you just can’t fault the players. So here’s my places for fault:

Coach Van Gorder, Coach Smith, Coach Mularkey, Matt Ryan, Sam Baker, whoever played opposite of John Abraham, Keith Brooking (because he can’t cover), and Lawyer Milloy (who also can’t cover).

But with all that being said, who would have thought that we would be here criticizing this team on being beaten in a playoff game. I thought that they would have only won 5 games this year. So they overachieved. Big time.

By Myrtle Beach

January 4, 2009 8:19 AM | Link to this

I am very happy and very depressed, we were Man handled on both sides of the lines and unless there is a MAJOR upgrade on the Left side of the OL and a Big time pass rusher added with our schedule next year we will be in trouble. We need a lockdown cover corner then move foxworth to FS. Getting Lewis back next year if healthy will fix the DT positions. But as much as i personally like Dahl and Clabo they were over matched big time. I think if we actually got all the offside calls “called” and even gave them the pass interference calls we win going away. Oh well lets see what happens in the personal department over the next few months it will be very interesting. Proud of you Falcons the game was an experience the young guy’s needed and will make the difference next year.

By jc_dawgs

January 4, 2009 8:25 AM | Link to this

Brookings time is up. Boley also needs to go unless he resigns for cheap.

We need front 7 help with our Defense. With next years very tough schedule….I’d like to see us pick up good FA help for our front 7.

The young offense and secondary will only get better. Keep those areas in tact.

By mike

January 4, 2009 8:27 AM | Link to this

defense has major weaknesses.linebackers big time.pass rush Abraham needs help.secondary.we need some guys who turn around and look for the ball and make big plays.the cardinals were pumped they were reading matt’s counts.we were in there den.falcons won’t fade with its present organization.we’ll build on this.cant wait for draft time.

By outonleave

January 4, 2009 8:46 AM | Link to this

I can only hope that 90% of the people posting here are drunk.

By Shawn Mullins

January 4, 2009 8:48 AM | Link to this

Just like to make two points .On the Cardnials last drive keith Brookings just got suck in to the run .3rd an 16 the game on the line and u get sucked in that bad.Time to call it quits Keith.Other thing Matt Ryan has been great this year ,but he really needs to work on his arm strength,because the last few weeks u could see him struggling to get the ball down the field far enough on these deep routes.

By UnBelievable

January 4, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this

I just finished reading this blog to this point and it is unbelievable all the crap I have seen so far. You got MORONS and yes I said MORONS on here talking about Mike Vick, Dawgs Fans not liking Brooking because he is from Tech, who’s fault it is why the falcons lost. You MORONS cannot appreciate what the falcons did this year. If you consider your self a fan and put crap on here like this, turn your fan card in and go root for some other team. NO ONE and I mean NO ONE on here expected these faclons to play like they did this year. The falcons brought excitement back to the team and played outstanding with the group they have. Outstanding job from management, to coaches and to players. I for one loved what they did and proud of them. I will be excited for the rest of the year and anxiuosly awaiting to see what they do next year.

Go Falcons!!!

By Steel Curtain

January 4, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this

Blame coaching and Matt Ryan, not your defense. Yeah they fell for a flea flicker and play action on 3rd and 19, but that is an error in coaching. The third down that sealed the game is where someone dialed up a play where the the linebackers came up to guard the backs. That is a dumb call when you know that you have to keep the play in front of you and that is a big coaching mistake. Face it, ATL was just too young for the playoffs this year and will just have to be ready next year.

By Bfalcon

January 4, 2009 9:02 AM | Link to this

First of all, who expected the Falcons to go this far. Nobody. They had a great season and now the foundation has been set. This offseason will be the key to Atlanta’s future and making them contenders for years to come. Suggestions: Cut Brooking, Do not resign Milloy, Boley, G.Jackson Resign Foxworth.

Go out and sign J.Phillips from Tampa Bay, from Atl and went to UGA. Sign L.Hill from Seattle if he is not franchised or make a run at Dansby from Ariz. Draft BJ Raji or P.Jerry Best DT’s in draft.

By lamar

January 4, 2009 9:04 AM | Link to this

We need vick back because matt ryan suc!!!

By Pete

January 4, 2009 9:07 AM | Link to this

The defense ? What defense ? It has been second rate from day one. Game after game. Thank God we have a Thomas Dimitroff who will find NFL quality HELP.

By Willie

January 4, 2009 9:11 AM | Link to this

I would like to clear the air concerning who is the better quarterback between Ryan and Vick.Yes Vick made poor decision in his life but what quarterback you would choose if you had a great defense like the Steelers.Vick would be the winner hands down.Matt have a good offensive line most of the season but when Vick was a quarterback the offensive line didn’t block at all most of the time lol.I really don’t care if you don’t like Micheal Vick but with a good defense he will make any team great.Matt will get the falcons record in passing I think but no SuperBowl appearance unless he is paying to be at the game.Matty Ice can’t stand to be hit and he will have about the same in TD’s and INT’s in this up coming season.

By Vick to Ryan Handoff

January 4, 2009 9:19 AM | Link to this

This team was down early, and they fought their way back. This team was down late, and they fought their way back. If not for an improbable 3rd and 16 conversion, they could of have a chance to win this game in the end. With Matt Ryan I always felt we had a chance to win, even when “trailing”, I don’t recall feeling that way with Vick - I love the guy, and I wish him well once he gets out, but it’s true.

Ryan helped guide this team to 11 wins, when most thought we’d only win one maybe two. I’m proud of the Falcons and the effort they put forth last night. It wasn’t pretty, but they left their heart on UOP Field and I appreciate the way they represented themselves this season!!

Oh yeah, yes, Roddy dropped a big one last night, but he made a helluva lot of clutch catches to make up for it - great game Roddy!!

By heartbroke Falcon

January 4, 2009 9:22 AM | Link to this

To all the Vick worshipers, the Green Bay win was year 2, but if 2007 didn’t happen, Matt Ryan’s in Baltimore and we’re sitting at home no where near 11-5. And if your precious Vick is brought back and Arthur has Ryan traded for him, the city of Atlanta would colapse from within with all the betrayal.

Unlike other years, we’re gonna fix this. Atlanta goes 14-2 next year and gets homefield on the way to a world championship

By heartbroke Falcon

January 4, 2009 9:23 AM | Link to this

To all the Vick worshipers, the Green Bay win was year 2, but if 2007 didn’t happen, Matt Ryan’s in Baltimore and we’re sitting at home no where near 11-5. And if your precious Vick is brought back and Arthur has Ryan traded for him, the city of Atlanta would colapse from within with all the betrayal.

Unlike other years, we’re gonna fix this. Atlanta goes 14-2 next year and gets homefield on the way to a world championship

By Mark

January 4, 2009 9:30 AM | Link to this

This game showed how important a good secondary is to a defense. I believe the Falcons don’t blitz like they need to because they don’t have a good secondary to cover receivers 1 on 1. Look at the great Superbowl defenses in the past. When Pittsburgh won a few years back they had the YOUNG guys in the secondary to cover receivers, the 2000 Ravens had three guys in the secondary which could cover anybody, and thus they blitzed almost the entire game. If the Falcons don’t get serious about their secondary, expect them to continue to sit in cover 2 the whole game and get picked apart.

By jc_atl

January 4, 2009 9:33 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe people think Vick would have gotten us to the playoffs. Laughable. He’ll be great in the CFL if they’ll have him.

This was a team loss including coaching. On 4th and 1 in a playoff game in hostile territory GO FOR IT. Lose playing to win, don’t play not to lose. Offensive line was terrible today and our defense was exploited. Chris Houston is only good for preventing yards after the catch but rarely does he break up a good pass. Ryan played decent considering the lack of run support or any pass protection. He is a traditional drop-back QB (thank goodness) and doesn’t have the legs to scamper out of the way. If protected he gets it done as we’ve seen all season. He had about 1/2 the time in the pocket today. Brooking has always been an average player who’s kept around because he’s a Tech grad. You can’t blame the last 3rd down conversion entirely on one person but he definitely blew his role in that play.

Oh well, if Dimitroff can make the same quality off-season decisions this year that he did last the Falcons will be back better than every. Ryan will be better, Roddie White will be better, Michael Turner will be better. I don’t know what to do about the defense but we need a defense that can do what Ryan & Co. can do on the other side of the ball.

By BAMA36-0

January 4, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

Great Football season. Thanks for making Sundays exciting again. Looking forward to next season.

Look guys. You keep talking about Vick. Vick is not a team player. He was selfish. To risk your career and not think about your teammates is selfish. He never learned the plays or tried to improve himself. That makes him selfish.

Go Falcons and Hawks.

By falconflier

January 4, 2009 9:39 AM | Link to this

Stop taking about CON-Vick. Yes he was a star, but now he’s not. Ryan has performed much better than anybody would have expected. One game in the playoffs is a rookies first year dream. Let’s move on to next season.

By RJL

January 4, 2009 9:42 AM | Link to this

If Brookings wasn’t the “White Boy Darling” of all the Southern bigots that follow the Falcons, he would have been gone a long time ago. He is a laughably slow relic that can not compete with the athletic skills surrounding him in the NFL.

By RB

January 4, 2009 9:52 AM | Link to this

The reason Brooking didn’t cover the TE is because he knew he didn’t have the speed to cover him. That’s why he faked being fooled on the play. It’s also obvious that Turner needs to come to camp about 10 pounds lighter next season. He lacks the initial burst that he needs.

By stendec

January 4, 2009 9:54 AM | Link to this

Keith “Alzheimer Victim” Brooking is untalented shet! That goes without saying. Two decisions by Mike Petrino really set the stage for this choke of monumental proportions. The first was settling for that damn field goal! Cards would have folded in early 7-0 hole. Knew that was beginning of the end. Saw pre-2008 losers were back. Was right. The second was not attempting onside kick on kickoff from midfield after penalty! Odds were in team favor at that point. Recovered or not! What was the gamble? A few yards one way or the other. Our pitiful defense cannot make a damn stand anyway. Against any damn body! Need 25 yards on a third down play? No problem. Just throw the ball against the Falcons. First down every mother (X) time! Thanks again Keith. Spare me the close loss melody. Hear enough of that mother (X) shet on Toiletlid (Thrasher) sites!

By Chilidog

January 4, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

DEFENSIVE COACH DEFENSIVE COACH SECONDARY COACH SECONDARY COACH

By Chilidog

January 4, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

DEFENSIVE COACH DEFENSIVE COACH SECONDARY COACH SECONDARY COACH

By cwag

January 4, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

Matt Ryan will progress BETTER than vick…He READS defenses BETTER than vick. He’s a leader,and has a accurate arm BETTER than vick…when he get’s out of jail. you vick lovers will waiting for him. Let’s just see if he get’s reinstated back and if he does, let’s just see if he used to be that quarterback you all think he will be 3 years ago…I don’t think so. Give this team a break people. We have a good team! We should just go after guys that want to play the game with passion. Not some high price free agent, that’s going to be a bust when they get here. Build from the draft, and go after players in free agency like they did last year. Plyers that’s young and WANT to play!

By funny

January 4, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

WHAT A GREAT SEASON FALCONS!!!! I HAVE ENJOYED WATCHING FALCONS ALL SEASON LONG. THIS YEAR WE HAD HOPE. BECAUSE OF “HOPE”, I HAD JOYS!!!!AND THAT “HOPE” GLUED FALCONS TOGETHER!! I HAVE “HOPE” IN MATT RYAN. I WILL HAVE “HOPE” BECAUSE WE HAVE THOMAS DIMITROFF. THANKS AGAIN FOR GREAT SEASON FALCONS!!!!

By Willie

January 4, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

The falcons will not make the playoff in the up coming season.Matt is still a rookie and yes he had a great season but this season is now over.This is the NFL and teams do watch films and make adjustment concerning the team that they got to play.Matt got to take it to another level for the falcons to make the playoffs again because teams will be gunning for him with pressure and also having 7 to 8 man front to confuse him and stop the run.I watch all of the falcons games all season long and when the team play 7 to 8 man front the whole game then the falcon lost most of the time.Teams will stop the run and force Matt to beat them and we saw what happen.Last but not least defense when playoffs game and Superbowls.I know who will win the Superbowl and it is the number one defense in the NFL. Steelers all the way!

By Chazz

January 4, 2009 10:13 AM | Link to this

You got it wrong Bird Babe! This defense gives up 21 points (with 3 turnovers by our offense btw ) against one of the best offenses in the league and you wanna put this on our defense? This one is on the offense all the way. That said even as bad as our offense played saturday they almost redeemed themselves. Cards played well no doubt there. We must! figure a better way to handle our snap count in crowd noise situations. Great year Falcons! Love you guys.

By stendec

January 4, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this

Cards an average team which played at 85 percent. Falcons above average team which played at 45 percent. That 40 percent differential was too much to overcome. Season not success! Sorry folks. Playoff victory WAS part of process. Loss next week would have been accepted. Even expected! Season did not end as planned. Mike Petrino failed to learn from coaching blunders earlier this season! Trade Roddy White for top receiver plus damn linebacker while he has value. Has not impressed despite numbers. Too many damn key drops!

By jack

January 4, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this

If you have the game taped,, just go back and watch the first half. You’ll notice that when Atlanta had the ball,,there were at LEAST 14 plays where the Cardinals were clearly offsides,, but only one flag. It is easy to stop the run when you are already past your blockers before the ball is snapped. Warner was in the grasp 3 times, but managed to ditch the ball off before the stripes blew the whistle. Ryan does the same thing, but gets called for a safety. In the 3rd quarter, the Cardinals are offsides, AGAIN, and they actually throw a flag, should have been a free play. Birds have a reciever wide open in the end zone,,but the Stripes call the play dead,,,,,, it was a sad and pathetic display of refs affecting the game.

By David

January 4, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this

People, why all the negativity?

We were a team projected to win a few games, and we won 11. We lost in a dome to a loud home crowd, where the refs clearly gave some home cooking (see Jack’s post: the Cards were jumping off-sides the entire game, but it was only called once; though I didn’t see 14 offside incidents, I did count at least six or seven).

The safety in the endzone was a joke…. how do you call stop of forward progress when we’re in the end zone, when our QB has his arm cocked back, and when he releases the ball to a wide open Turner? Very questionable call.

This team wasn’t supposed to win a Super Bowl this year. Give Dimitroff time, and he’ll put the pieces together. He’s a smart guy who watched the same game we watched. We need to draft defense, defense, defense, and hopefully make a run at Albert Haynesworth or Julius Peppers (both unrestricted free agents) in the offseason, or dump the money into Jordan Gross, the stuff offensive tackle currently playing for the rival Panthers.

Things will be fine. Don’t panic. I’m as big a Falcon fan as anybody, and I was obviously upset we lost, but the bottom line is that we far exceeded any expectations we had at the beginning of the year.

Congrats to the Falcons…. looking forward to next year. It’s nice to have a football team in Atlanta again.

By RedBirdFan

January 4, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

I just have one question…….where is Genius Boy?

By luckydog

January 4, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Sorry Chazz, the defense stunk. Check it out: No sacks. No forced turnovers. Only one or two loss-yardage plays. Nothing that disrupted the Cardinals’ game plan or got them rattled. When you get to the playoffs a defense has to contribute some or all of those things and ours didn’t. And of course there was the total choke in the clutch when they had a chance to give the O one more shot with 2 mins left. The AJC’s coverage today has it right. This team has a good offensive core but a lot of reworking to do on D.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 4, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this

INTERESTING STATS

——WHEN TRAILING FALCONS ARE——-

0-5

ANYBODY KNOW WHY?

DOWN THE STRETCH

PICKS………..6

FUMBLES……4

SAFETY…..1

THE ONLY REASON LEAF IS NOT BLAMED FOR THIS LOSS IS NOT BECAUSE HE IS A ROOKIE…..IT’S BECAUSE HIS NAME IS NOT MIKE AND HE WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO EVEN HOLD MV7 JOCKSTRAP……BUT I’M SURE HE CAN HOLD A CLIP BOARD :)

——EARTH TO ART BLANK———

YOU CAN’T REPLACE “GOD” WITH A “FAKE” POPE

——-JANUARY 20, 2009———

END OF FAILED EXPERIMENT :)

“THANKS FOR PLAYING KIDS”

ART I KNOW YOU ARE NOT HAPPY…..I SAW YOU ON THAT SIDELINE BEFORE THE GAME WAS OVER AND YOU WERE USED TO CELEBRATING A PLAYOFF WIN…..BUT….YOU PROBABLY THOUGHT…..

OH SHOOT HE’S NOT MV7

——-OH DARN IT :)———-

I HATE THOSE RAP LISTENING, FAST MOBILE QUARTERBACKS THAT CAN WIN WITH A SORRY LINE……BUT……

———-CHECK THIS OUT———-

YOU GUYS KEEP BLAMING THE OFFENSIVE LINE…..BUT DIDN’T YOU SAY THIS IS THE SAME LINE THAT MV7 HAD?….INTERESTING…..:)

——-LIKE I SAID ALL SEASON———

72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST

……..IF IT LOOKS LIKE A BUST……

……IF IT SMELLS LIKE A BUST……

——-IT MUST BE A BUST———-

2004 & COUNTING

NO PLAYOFF WINS :)

THINK OF ALL THAT MONEY ART BLANK SPENT TO ERASE THE LEGACY OF THE “GREATEST” FOOTBALL LEGEND……SHALL WE COUNT THE WAYS…..

-BOUGHT THE COMMISSIONER

-BOUGHT A WEAK SCHEDULE

-BOUGHT A PRO BOWL BACK

-BOUGHT A NEW COACH

-BOUGHT A NEW GM

-BOUGHT A NEW COORDINATOR

-USED A COLLEGE OFFENSE

———BUT CHECK THIS OUT———

LEAF STILL SCREWED THAT UP :)

By Gregory Moundine

January 4, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

Falcons had an excellent run, but Falcons will not be complete until they get a tight end. Example…D. Clark, Gonzalez, Gates, Whitten..you must get Ryan another option if this means going after A. Crumpler.

By Wabe

January 4, 2009 12:05 PM | Link to this

Just a quick thought…

One, the falcons haven’t put together back to back winning seasons ever.

Two, how many teams can you think of right off the top of your head that have gone into a season with high expectations just simply fall of the map. Ex- Jacksonville. New Orleans. G.B. Cleveland. ATLANTA (AFTER NFC CHAMP SEASON)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I’m telling you it’s not EASY to make the playoffs…so regardless of who’s a rookie and who’s not…

THIS TEAM GOT 11 WINS THIS YEAR…I DONT GIVE A DAM WHO’S A ROOKIE AND WHO’S NOT…your a TEAM THAT JUST LOST TO A 9 WIN TEAM IN THE PLAYOFFS…A TEAM THAT YOU SHOULD’VE BEATEN…if you’re one of those people saying “hey it’s ok because our future looks bright”…

You have no football IQ.

By Dirt Dobber

January 4, 2009 12:11 PM | Link to this

Jack—-You are right.the cards played offsides all game on defence and got away with it.Thats how they won the game.

By Bama36-0

January 4, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

Hey Vick Supporter 2, you are a loser just like your boy Vick. Pierless Price exposed Vick football IQ or lack there of on 790 the Zone. You know Vick could not read defenses or read his own play book. I would take Ryan over “sick vick” anyday. GREAT SEASON FALCONS!

By Larry

January 4, 2009 12:52 PM | Link to this

The Dog Killers were dominated. Please don’t whine that you “only lost by six points.” The Cards had the ball deep in your territory and kneeled it down for the final two minutes. They could have easily put up another 7-spot.

You trash-talked the “lowly” Cardinals and prayed in December that you would have a trip to the desert. Therefore no one in the country has sympathy for you.

Next year, take your successes with class. Karma is a powerful force.

By falcon21

January 4, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

Everyone is saying Ryan has hit the rookie wall, the last 4 or 5 weeks its the oline that has hit the wall.Its hard to get anything on your passes when you are backing up or you have people in your face.Nothing is wrong with Ryan’s arm. He has done all he can. And if the flags were thrown when they should have been for being offsides, we would be talking about a win.Changing the snap count should have had nothing to do with it. Good season Falcons, you made us proud.

By falcon fan

January 4, 2009 1:18 PM | Link to this

Sam baker was terrible he was getting beat almost every play.

By Back to Life

January 4, 2009 1:23 PM | Link to this

**From the Falcons message board: We have seen Ryan be more apprehensive, cautious or SCARED to throw the ball downfield and teams are beginning to sense it too and it is beginning to show up in Mr. Ryan’s play. All dressed up and nowhere to go in the pocket, and we see a surge in fumbles, INTs, more incompleted passes and now safeties in the end zone.

Good thing Mr. Blank kicked Warrick Dunn to the curb, and got Turner in here, because it would have been a 3 or 4 win season . Falcon management wouldn’t support Vick with a franchise RB and even with Ryan given weapons, he still struggles at times and it seems the struggles have increased as we entered December and playoff season.

ESPN NEXT LEVEL stats 23 of 29 completed passes were for LESS THAN 10 yards… (that’s Harrington-like) YOU CAN”T DENY THIS

3 of the 11 passes completed went for MORE THAN 10 yards..PASSER RATING—3.. **, can young Matt read defenses?..Tarvaris Jackson threw FOUR TD passes against this defense…three weeks ago..

By The Real Voice of Reason

January 4, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

Wabe-Actually those who say the future looks bright have a football iq, THEY ALSO ARE NOT FRONT RUNNING FANS WHO BOUNCED ON THE BANDWAGON AFTER THE FALCONS BEAT THE RAMS. Listen we weren’t expected to get here. Second Ryan has a bright future, just to many bitter black people can’t see there boy vick in jail. Anyway we just have to improve our defense in the offseason and will be fine. The draft is in two months and I think we will be fine. See you all in august. Vick Supporter will transfer over to an oakland board sooner or later, WABE IS A CARDNIALS FAN

By falcon21

January 4, 2009 1:37 PM | Link to this

If Mike Vick had a running back all he could do is hand off because he dang sure could not pass the ball. All that money to hand off.Everyone says he will make it in the CFL. No it’s to cold.

By TIWAS

January 4, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this

Congratulations FALCONS!!!!!

You all had a great season that no one expected.

A couple of plays here or there and you’ll getting ready for next week, but with all said you did a job well. Thanks. Without putting any pressure on you after yesterday but we the fans are looking forward to another great and better season next year.

You all carried yourselves as PROFESSIONALS and that was what the city and franchise needed after last year. You really did a good job in that area and it is a testament to the organization and the “reorganization”. I have every confidence that you’ll improve in the Draft and Free agency markets this year.

Take a couple of weeks and head to the islands for some R and R and we’ll all look forward to next year.

Again Congratulations and Godspeed!!!!

By Wabe

January 4, 2009 1:42 PM | Link to this

Thank you Back to Life,

You guys are talking as if we weren’t favored to win that game yesterday.

Ryan was doing great in the 2nd quarter…and then the offensive line disappeared? Or was Ryan not “reading the defense” and making the plays that most of you say “vick couldn’t”?

I’m a Matt Ryan supporter…but i’m not going to give him a free pass because of what “he” did this season. What exactly did he do? He took a team with a 1700 yard RB and a Pro Bowl Receiver to the playoffs to get K.O.’d in the first round.

Remember…our very 1st FIRST DOWN in the 2nd half came with 7 minutes left in the 4th quarter. Yeah the offensive line was a disappointment…but you’re telling me they didn’t have a SINGLE PLAY where they gave Ryan enough time in that 3rd quarter?

Hard to believe.

By Seriously Speaking

January 4, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

I like numbers as much as the next guy but some of the numbers thats being thrown out there are…misleading. Off the top of my head I can recall a couple of long passes yesterday that hit receivers in their hands and they were dropped. You have to take what defenses give you and you also have to understand the scheme. The Falcons are not by any way a “bomb it out downfield” team. Sure they have some plays where they go down field but this is a smash mouth, nickle and dime type of offense the Falcons run which is why you see Ryan completing more shorter throws.

Looking back at yesterday’s game I’m trying to figure out how Matt was supposed to go downfield…he had very little time to do that yesterday. We all seen it, and some people will try their best to deny it, but the RE (Berry) and the DT (Dockett) played offsides at least 75% of the game. I was taught when I played the game that anytime you hold your hand over the football at the DT position that its a penalty. Don’t know what happened to that rule yesterday - guess it got threw out the window. Anyhow, Ryan had very little time to go down field yesterday and when he did Roddy White dropped the ball.

I’m proud of the way the Falcons played this season - 11 wins. I know some people will talk about weak schedule because we played the Lions & Chiefs. I personally don’t think the Falcons played a weak schedule….Our division was just about recognized as the second best division in football - we had 6 games in our division that was tough. Went on the road to Green Bay, played the Bears, the Vikings, Chargers….you can say what you want but the Falcons schedule was far from weak - it wasn’t the toughest schedule in the league but it wasn’t weak. I think the Falcons has as good of a chance as any team in the NFC to repeat next year.

What I want to know is when do the NFL finally fix this seeding issue for the playoffs in wild card games. the Falcons, Ravens, Colts. The Falcons had the 3rd best record in the NFC and didn’t have an opportunity to host a game in its building because they didn’t win their division????? Absolutely ridiculous. I’m not going to blame us going to AZ for a lost but its not fair to reward teams with a lower record with a home field game. I would feel the same exact way if the roles were switched. I’m just sayin something has to be done about that rule.

By Wabe

January 4, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

Voice of Reason,

Let me ask you something…

Can you gaurantee a playoff birth next season in a tough NFC South Division?

I’m not saying Ryan’s future isn’t bright. If you scroll up…in one of my post i wrote he looks like he has a bright future. But what i meant to say in the post you’re talking about is that you can’t honestly walk away from this game saying “it’s ok because our future looks bright.” Ryan played horrible…and don’t try to deny that. We made the cardinals defense look like the 85 bears. WE DIDN’T PICK UP A SINGLE FIRST DOWN in the 2nd half until 7 minutes left in the 4th. And then you guys point fingers at the DeF? At the O-Line?

The O-Line sucked when Vick was here…but who’d yall point the finger at? HuH Wytes? So i’m just going to use this loss to return the favor. K Wytes?

By Wabe

January 4, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this

You have to make the most of the oppurtunites that you get…

You can’t make the playoffs and play like you’re going to be here again next year…

That’s what you people on this board seem to be banking on along with the Falcons.

By kris

January 4, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

Hats off to Van gorder and smith for coaching the most untalented defense in the NFL. Brooking clearly needs to be let go. we need a playmaking safety, another cornerback, a playmaking lb and another defensive end. Probably time to send Andersen packing as well. We need playmakers and have none except Abraham and he can’t do it all himself.

By kris

January 4, 2009 2:01 PM | Link to this

Brooking please walk away while many of the fans still like you. you are embarrasing yourself-you’ve made 10s of millions-walk away and be a fan favorite.

By falcon21

January 4, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

When Vick was here it was snap and run, you know “wildcat”. The oline did the best they could because they never new where VM was going to be.

By nottheworstteamaz

January 4, 2009 2:09 PM | Link to this

whatever writer said playing in january in az is consolation prize think again as far as worst team in playoff very untrue it is the falcons we proved it yesterday out played in every phase edge ran all over falcons defense warner pick them apart boldin and fitz made look easy one last note we are who we thought we were

By big kev

January 4, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

we need to cut keith brooking. And i’ll tell you why. (for all the brooking fans) keith has been overated his whole career here. Tell me one time you remember him making a key int, fumble, TFL, or sack. He has never been a dominant LB but gets treated and paid like one. I’m tired of him making tackles down the field after the other team got positive yards or a first down. Think Falcon fans and please tell me ONE!!!! game where you saw him and was like whoa that’s a hall of famer??!!! I can tell you…NONE!!!!!! I’m glad what happened happened so people can finally see the truth about this guy…that he’s a overrated, slow, non-effective good ole boy that got love from the local fans but not seeing for what he is!!!!!

By yestheworstteamaz

January 4, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

lol….f’in hilarious seeing an AZ fan come on here talking trash. It took a trick play, and a freak play to win a game by 6 points. Yeah you reallyyyy dominated the Falcons.

By Vick Supporter

January 4, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this

OK…..you people are losing me here….you people put all of the blame on the defense (Brooking) and none on Matt “Montana” Ryan…….LMAO. You falcons fans are LOSERS. You always have to put the blame on someone other than your favorites, which his Ryan at the time. I can remember whe The Great Mike Vick was here and he was blamed for EVERYTHING, so now, we shall shift the blame to Mr. Ryan. Fair game, right? He deserves alot of the blame himself. You people blamed everybody but Ryan. That why you fans are losers. If Vick was the QB (we would have beat the Cards) ya’ll would blame Vick even if we won the game. Ryan just can’t make all of the throws. Merril Hoge hit it in the head, Matt Ryan has trouble with the verticle pass, which equates to a weak arm. It like ya’ll have a bigger version of Joey “Field Goal” Harrington. I’m sure will make you guys proud because he fits the mold in what you want as a qb here in the confederate south, while Vick will take his team to the SB and win. VICK 09.

By Vick Supporter

January 4, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this

You people keep blaming Brooking for everything, but I heard none of that when Vick needed stops on defense, instead, you blamed Vick. Now you people are makin Brooking the fall guy when it really should be Ryan. Like VS2 says, when it comes to wins and losses, it falls on the QB. The Falcons just got their asses beat by a lesser team, that’s all there is to it. When you don’t have a gamebreaker like you know who, its tough to win in the playoffs. =)

By DeClown

January 4, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

I’m not surprised that turner did bad this week. Look at the game with Saint Louis..he made some terrible mistakes…slowing down before he get’s a touch down. Let him the get the ball before he get’s a touch…come on…read the writing on the wall. What the hell happened to Norwood. He was hardly given the ball. If the ball was given to Norwood, at least we could have scored I think. All you mike vick hater’s let it rest. He was a great player! He did a lot of the falcon’s team. Give him his due. We all make mistakes….after all, if we arrested people running horses on tracks…them killing them on the track for a broken leg. It’s the same thing. But, no one wants to do away with the kentucky derby, do we? You think about it…. c** fights( chicken fight- slavery time—i don’t have to tell you where this came from (lol), then was the dog track( running dogs), dog fights, and horse raceing. which one is the lessor of evil….NONE!

By Robert Harris

January 4, 2009 3:39 PM | Link to this

I beg your pardon BirdBabe. You were obviously not watching the game. The defense was not on the field when Michael Turner fumbled into the hands of an Arizona defender who took it in for a touchdown.

By Cutter

January 4, 2009 3:52 PM | Link to this

I WAS SOMEWHAT OF A VICK FAN BUT GUYS THAT SHIP HAS SAILED…HOW LONG ARE WE GONNA TALK ABOUT VICK, ITS OVER, HE AIN’T COMING BACK SO LETS MOVE ON. BROOKINGS, PLEASE DO NOT RETURN TO THE ATLANTA FALCONS ITS BEEN A GOOD RIDE BUT THIS SHIP TO HAS SAILED. BOLEY TAKE CARE GUY, DONT KNOW WHAT HAPPENED BUT IT WASNT GOOD. MILLOY AND JACKSON THIS IS BUSINESS I’M SURE YOU UNDERSTAND. REMEMBER THIS IS A PROCESS PEOPLE AND WHILE IT WAS PAINFUL TO WATCH THIS WILD CARD GAME, IT POINTED OUT WHERE WE ARE IN THE PROCESS…NOW LETS START LOOKING AT FREE AGENCY AND THE DRAFT CLASS. SS,NT,OLB,OL,TE,CB.

By darrell starks

January 4, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this

YES we are proud of you WHAT A WONDERFUL YEAR. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Drago

January 4, 2009 6:11 PM | Link to this

Great season. Need to focus and O and D lines in the offseason.

Matt Ryan. The Present. The Future.

By FLACCO STILL GOING!

January 4, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this

FLACCO’S TEAM IS STILL GOING! THEY WON THEIR ROAD GAME SO I GUESS THAT WASN’T A HINDRANCE! AND DID FLACCO HAVE 300 YARDS PASSING? NOPE! HE HAD A MEASLY 123 YARDS….BUT GUESS WHAT, HE RAN A TD IN TO SEAL THE GAME!!! YEP! THAT’S RIGHT! HE USED HIS LEGS TO RUN TO VICTORY!!! LOL, I GUESS FLACCO KNOWS YOU DO WHAT YOU HAVE TO, TO GET A VICTORY!! AND THAT’S WHY THE RAVENS ARE PROGRESSING ON!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

January 4, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

By Vick Supporter January 4, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this You people keep blaming Brooking for everything, but I heard none of that when Vick needed stops on defense, instead, you blamed Vick. Now you people are makin Brooking the fall guy when it really should be Ryan. Like VS2 says, when it comes to wins and losses, it falls on the QB. The Falcons just got their asses beat by a lesser team, that’s all there is to it. When you don’t have a gamebreaker like you know who, its tough to win in the playoffs. =

Hey turd, the Falcons were 11-5 and made the playoffs. The last two years Vick was here the team was a loser because of him and his lousy production. There were no playoff games! Quit suckin’ that Vick and get a clue idiot!

By crabapplejoe

January 4, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this

RJL wrote: “If Brookings wasn’t the “White Boy Darling” of all the Southern bigots that follow the Falcons, he would have been gone a long time ago. He is a laughably slow relic that can not compete with the athletic skills surrounding him in the NFL.” Well, well now, Lawyer Milly must be your “Black Boy Darling” of all the black bigots that follow the Falcons or he would have been gone a long time ago. He is a laughably slow relic that can not compete with the athletic skills surrounding him in the NFL. You see, it was not Keith Brooking that got beat like a rented mule for two TDs in the first half. That would be your slow and old Lawyer Milloy. But, I know you’re just a racist who hates on Caucasian players.

By Mike

January 4, 2009 10:48 PM | Link to this

Warner did not pick the Falcons apart. 3 pass plays accounted for nearly 40% of his yards. One Fitzgerald made a nice play, the other the D blitzed and got burnt…the last Brooking bit on a play action 3rd and 16 (which should never happen to a veteran linebacker). The Arizona D was in Atlantas backfield all day. What it boils down to is Arizona beat Atlanta in the trenches…there lines came to play and our lines severely underestimated them. In the offseason I would go after Suggs…let Brooking go bye bye, resign Wire…have a LB crew of Lofton, Nicholas, and Wire…Boley on passing downs. Draft a D tackle to go along with Trey Lewis when he returns (Raji from BC should be available late in the first)…maybe make a run at Asomugha if the Raiders do not slap the tag on him. I think the Falcons also need address the tight end position. I would resign Foxworth, Clabo, Koenen, Davis,Dahl,and Wire. Big Grady is great when he is in there, but he is one play per position….not getting nearly enough production from him….and we have all seen enough of Brooking to know his best years have past.

By mars

January 4, 2009 11:39 PM | Link to this

Oh, I am so DISAPPOINTED!!!

Now that is said, I would like to say Congratulations to the Falcons for a wonderful and exciting “rebuilding” year.

Congratulations to Matt Ryan for Rookie of the Year honors.

Congratulations to Coach Smith for Coach of the Year honors.

Congratulations to the fans for having something to cheer about for the first time in 4-5 years.

And, of course, congratulations to Vick Supporter 2 for finally getting 1 prediction right. Aw go on. You deserve it buddy.

We have a lot to be proud of, despite our quick exit from the playoffs.

Now if I had to point a finger for the loss….I would have to say that it was because we overachieved in a rebuilding year. The only other cause would be the lack of “off-sides” calls by the refs (our friends all year). Yes they called a few. They had to, since the Cards were in the backfield before the ball was snapped on every single play (see botched hand-off deflected to Cards defender). But, as in every game this year, it’s useless to complain about such things.

Looking forward to next year! VS2, keep those superior prognostication skills razor sharp! We’re gonna need ya’ next year, buddy! Thanx for bein’ our good luck charm!

By Kirk

January 5, 2009 1:54 AM | Link to this

I’m praising all the vick fans because if vick would have had that same nite matt ryan had boy espn, nfl network, every magazine would have trash the heck out of vick they do it with McNabb but wait til McNabb messes up then they trash him but Brett Farve can throw 4interceptions a game and they says he has a good game even tho he scores 3 touchdowns…………..lol. But defense needs help bad we can’t seem to keep Abraham healthy enough to finish a complete season our corners are two small we got lucky we didn’t play a Moss or a T.O. this season and our Linebackers were silent this season and really they should be slapped on the last play in the Arizona game Keith Brooking doesn’t need to return next season and if we make the rite picks in the draft and get some players from free agency in the offeseason then we should make a playoff run.

By bigeasy830

January 5, 2009 6:14 AM | Link to this

I told you so. I still say you should have drafted Dorsey then Flacco. Matt Ryan has been exposed. The Falcons will win no more than 5 games next year.

Falcons, Next years version of the Cleveland Browns!!!!

By TOO BAD BLANK

January 5, 2009 7:26 AM | Link to this

OH WELL! YOU’LL NEVER SELL OUT THAT DOME NOW BLANK! THE REFS AND THE MEDIA CAN ONLY GET THE FALCONS SO FAR! NOW THAT THE BUZZARDS GOT A ONE AND DONE YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO GET 60% TO RENEW AND YOU DIDN’T GET BUT 60% TO RENEW THIS SEASON! SO THAT’S ANOTHER 15K THAT WONT BE BACK! ALREADY HAD TO EXTEND THE “RENEW” DATE! LMAO! YEP, GO AHEAD AND CELEBRATE THE “REBUILDING” LMAO!

By Manny

January 5, 2009 8:06 AM | Link to this

Next year will prove what team we have. If we take this experience, learn from it and see Matt Ryan get better, we will go back to the playoffs and do fine.

But if we see Matt Ryan limp to the finish like he did this year, the fall may go faster and we may have a team that doesn’t make the playoffs- or at least make the playoffs and get embarrassed again.

Have a great offseason!

By Kirk

January 5, 2009 10:01 AM | Link to this

Okay Flaco ain’t in the playoff because of his skills because the ravens have good D and when u have good D u can have a aight offense because that’s what the ravens are a aight offense because if u run dat denfese out then tha offense will look like garbage. Matt Ryan isn’t rookie of the year just because of his good look it’s a reason he honestly remind me of Tom Brady. If we had a Ravens D we would be A superbowl team.

By Media bias in sports

January 5, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

Kirk you are so right NBC sport, Fox sport, and CBS and For sure ESPN and SI, are out to do Black QB in, Just listen to them . Now for the new player coming to the draft any black QB is third rate from the start. They can start in collage but not the pro’s, which is pure BS. It is time for this to stop. They want them all to be running backs are DB.

The main stream sport media had a problem just like pro GM and owner all is not Fair And balance in the NFL. Same as coaches same good ol boy keep getting the coaches Jobs. Out of all the guy that played Very Few get a chance to coach in the NFL. Why buy tickets or products if this is how they do us!! Let them go under unless they change there ways . It is OUT of hand!!!!

By FREE MIKE VICK

January 5, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA……Matt Ryan looked like the chump he is.

It’s not too late to bring Vick back.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

January 5, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

It’s not too late to bring Vick back.

Yes, it is! We don’t want, or need, this dog killin’, bankrupt, punk thug! We have a real quarterback in Ryan. Vick won’t be available for another year anyway. Goodell is going to suspend him a year for gambling.

By Realist

January 5, 2009 6:03 PM | Link to this

BWA HAHAHAHA! Goodell isn’t gonna suspend Vick for gambling…Vick’s lawyers made sure of that…keep dreaming. You’re just salty that unfortunately Vick will be back in the league and this contrived “feel good” story for the Falcons didn’t work to blockbuster ratings or a big boom in interest! LOL! Your worst nightmare is about to happen, Vick comes back and what little bit of limelight the media tried so very very hard to conjure up for the Falcons, will be dimmed and every bit of attention will follow MV around like a shadow. The next time the Georgia Dome sells out, it will be because whatever team Vick signs with, is there.

By sport reporting is Bias

January 5, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this

Me and manny other will buy tickets to see Vick play . And Atlanta will have there hope crushed Ice At QB. and when that day comes watch the media praise punk Ice. I can here it now look how crush Ice read defensive with two or three INT’s they still will push the hope. no matter what. The media at the vike & phily game did you see how they doged both Black QB . If you can’t see the bias in the reporting cBS, nbc fox and the haters at ESPN. They need to be call out. they need to be fair and and non bias. but it the other way around in sports reporting. I wonder why? oh playing while black!

By Mike

January 5, 2009 11:02 PM | Link to this

For all you jumping on the Flacco wagon you must not have seen the same Flacco I did the other day. He completed barely over a third of his passes while having all day to sit in the pocket and wait for his receivers to create space. Flacco is not put into a system and expected to carry his team when the opposing D shuts down the run. He has the comfort of throwing the ball away knowing his D will carry the team…all he has to do is not turn the ball over. I would love to have seen Flacco with defenders in his face all day, and being forced to throw 40 times. I agree Declown as far as not getting Norwood involved. I think screens, shovel passes, or swing passes to Norwood would have burnt the Cardinals for being overly agressive (as the Boldin TD catch did to the Falcons). As far people who think white QB’s are never critisized…you must be listening to different commentating than I am. Marino never could win “The Big One”…neither could Elway for until the end of his career. Stteve Young was in “Montana’s Shadow”…Eli could not lead…Brees was a bust, so was Rivers. Peyton couldn’t move in the pocket….Just watch one game and listen to how they announce the game… One minute a player has been shut down all day…then after one play they will say …”The defense is yet to find an answer to this guy”…everyone wants to make everything into a race issue. I think McNabb is an awesome QB…when he is on, he is hard to beat. Like any other player I think he has his off days. I think Favre is over rated. He holds almost every record there is, including interceptions. When I think of the great ones…I think of Bradshaw, Montana, and Brady…because they are the ones who have stepped up time after time and brought there team championships.

By Detering Deter

January 6, 2009 9:29 AM | Link to this

Anyone can point to the wildcard disaster and play by play the reasons for the loss. So what. That makes me feel better that you’re such a monday morning waterboy.

The question nobody is asking is this: Why didn’t Smith adjust to what the Cards were committed to doing the whole game? I knew what to do two minutes into that damnable game from hell.

Smith doesn’t know what he’s doing. Period. Neither does the offensive coordinator. I’d let the defensive co-ordinator stay because this really wasn’t his fault.

I cant get over this. It’s not fair. Why is the world so screwy? What is wrong with you people? We lost the wildcard game to a bunch of so so’s.

What a world…all my beautiful gridiron glory gone forever…..what a world….what a world…….

By boxer99

January 6, 2009 4:15 PM | Link to this

@Free Mike Vick you are simply a total loser!!. I heard the great MV7 is auctioning his house here in Georgia, maybe you can go up there with your welfare check and see if they will except it as money, and buy some memoraibela. In fact go pick up Convick Supporter 2 both you knuckleheads can take marta there. Now, that is a great idea!

By Realist

January 7, 2009 7:18 AM | Link to this

Say what you want about Flacco, Mike…but his team is playing this weekend. He didnt threw 2 interceptions or fumble the ball to set up the opposing team for easy points.

By Circle City

January 7, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

Realist, Flacco has a MUCH better defense than Ryan does and Flacco is basically doing the same thing Dilfer did the last the time the Ravens were making a Superbowl run - managing the game. If Flacco and Ryan were to trade places last weekend, the results in their respective games would have been the same. The game changer was the 3rd quarter fumble that wasn’t Ryan’s fault. You can pin the two picks on Ryan but he was trying to make plays in the passing game because the Cards were stuffing the run with Turner. Give him credit for the the two TDs he threw. Ryan will learn from this and come back strong next season. As well as he played this year , he was still a rookie on a team that didn’t have a whole lot of talent. Ryan’s the reason White’s in the Pro Bowl or oh! yeah that’s right it was Vick who was throwing him all those passes that caused Roddy to set the single season team record for receiving yards.

By bigeasy830

January 7, 2009 2:54 PM | Link to this

By Mike, I thought Flacco was the best QB in the draft. I jumped on the Flacco bandwago after I saw that draftee competition and I saw him throw the ball 74 yards. If you are an avid reader of these blogs you would see that I thought Flacco had a better showing than Ryan in that pre-season game the Falcons played the Ravens.

By Circuit City, true the Ravens have a better D, but that proves my point when I say the Falcons should have drafted Dorsey. They needed to solidify their D-line like the Giants. Dorsey did not have as bad a year as many people think he did. He had a decent rookie year and will only get better. Flacco would have been available in the second round. Also, Sam Baker would have been available in the seconds round. I cannot argue to much about the drafting of this years ROY, but time will tell who will be the best of the 2 QB’s. I just don’t believe that the GM did as great a job as people think he did. The 2 secoond round draft picks that the Flacons gave up to move up to get Baker could have been used to help fill some of the holes on this team.

By Mike

January 7, 2009 9:21 PM | Link to this

Bigeasy…I too thought Atlanta should have drafted Dorsey, and then Flacco…honestly my ideal situation was to try to swing a trade with Baltimore where they would have moved to third to get Ryan, Falcons get Ellis, and additional draft picks…none of that happened. I also was more impressed with Flaccos arm. However it takes more than a strong arm in the NFL. Look at Andre Ware, Jeff George, and Jemarcus Russell. Flacco is yet to be in a position where he needs to win a game. Ryan has been in some intense situations this year, and most times responded brilliantly. He did play like a rookie at times…he tends to stare down receivers to long which seems to be his one glaring weakness. I think the new GM did an awesome job. Ryan could end up as a Rick Mirer….however judging by his rookie season I think he will be very good if not great one day. Turner was an excellent addition. I think Lofton is going to be a force in the middle of our D for a long time to come. CHevis Jackson played well, and so did Bierman. I think he should be moved to linebacker, strong side and should be Brookings replacement. You are right that only time will tell who will be the best of Ryan and Flacco. I am hoping we will see some upgrades on the D….Suggs I think would be a solid addition on the other side of Abe…like I said let Brooking go, move Bierman to the strong side and rotate Nicholas and Boley on the weak side…try to get Asomugha from the Raiders if he is not tagged. Use the first round pick to get Raji from BC. I think they should go for tight end also…if they are lucky enough for Gresham to fall to the second round he would be addition…. I hope to keep Milloy, because of his leadership…but I would like to see a play making safety in our secondary….

By bigeasy830

January 8, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

By Mike, great post. I say the Flacons go with a pass rushing D-Lineman with their first pick. An additional pass rusher whether its an end or tackle will improve the play of the other positions. The linebackers nor DB’s look bad when the opposing QB is on his back and unable to get off a good throw. The fact that you brought up a possible trade scenario with Baltimore for Ellis while the Ravens would have gotten Ryan shows you keep up with the sport year round. I have nothing against Ryan. He was widely considered the best QB in the draft. Baltimore was the only other team that was thought to be after a QB in the first round besides the Falcons and it was reported that they wanted Ryan bad. I just thought the Falcons had to many holes they need to address. I really had no problem with them drafting him if not Dorsey or Ellis. I think the only bad move was trading 2 second round picks for Baker. I like Baker as a player. I just thought he would have been there when the Falcons drafted in the second round and they really needed those other picks to build up the team. They could have gotten a higher quality D-lineman with one of those pics and another O-lineman. I tell you also, After the Falcons trade Vick they need to use one of those picks on a RB. Norwood gets nicked up too much to be counted on as a back-up or replacement if Turner gets hurt.