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Home > Jeff Schultz > Archives > 2008 > September > 07 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USMore than just a victory for Falcons
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This wasn’t a victory. It was a cleansing breath.
The cowardly coach who scrambled to Arkansas. The misguided quarterback who crash-landed in Leavenworth. The ill-fated romancing of the reptilian Bill Parcells as pooh-bah. All of it. Gone. It was like some greater power drifted into the Georgia Dome Sunday and took a power-washer to the entire franchise.
“You have wins that are important,” Falcons owner Arthur Blank said Sunday. “But to me, for this coaching staff, for these players, for Atlanta, for our fans, this is a win in capital letters. Giant capitals. It sets the tone.”
The Falcons opened the season Sunday with a 34-21 win over the Detroit Lions. They went from an 18-month nightmare to a perfectly scripted afternoon of bliss.
It’s only one win in a 16-game season.
Why does it seem like more than that?
Matt Ryan, the quarterback they drafted first, threw a 62-yard touchdown pass on his first NFL pass. He directed touchdown drives in the team’s first three possessions. He responded like a pro when asked later if he expected either: “Uh, no.”
Michael Turner, the running back signed as a free agent from San Diego, rushed for a franchise-record 220 yards and two touchdowns in his first game. His biggest problem will be an encore.
Mike Smith, a career assistant coach, won his first game answering to no one.
Thomas Dimitroff, a career scout who took a weedwacker to this roster in the off-season, won his first game as a general manager.
Blank? He just floated. The throbbing pain in his temples had finally subsided.
Understand, this team hasn’t been surrounded by either good fortune or believers. National publications have universally picked the team to finish in last place (The Sporting News’ projection: 1-15). The season-ticket holders that didn’t rebel last season merely slept through it — then fled after it.
It was the greatest exodus since scripture.
The front office scrambled to ensure Sunday’s opener would be sold out and televised locally. They achieved their objective. But thousands of tickets either were discounted, given away or maybe tossed into a dumpster off Northside. It was a “sellout” with elbow room. At least 15,000 seats were empty.
One game won’t make believers out of everyone. But suddenly 2008 doesn’t project like a disastrous extension of 2007.
Blank made the most of the day. Nobody deserved this more. He beamed a smile that hadn’t been so wide since the Falcons made it to the NFC title game in 2004. He soaked it all for the final minutes on the sideline. When the final seconds ticked away, he grabbed the game ball, walked with the players and coaches into the locker room and then presented the game ball to Smith.
“Obviously it has been a long journey for him and I know how hard he worked with Thomas on this roster,” Blank said.
Smith is beloved by his players. He then showed why. He held the ball, turned to the players and announced that every one of them will receive a game ball.
“Mike just said, ‘It’s not about me, it’s about everybody,’ ” recalled Dimitroff, who was in the room. “I guess they’ll all be looking for that in their mailboxes.”
It was one more embrace than we ever witnessed a year ago, to or from Bobby Petrino.
One game. One win. It felt like so much more.
Dimitroff shredded the roster he inherited. Sunday’s team included seven rookies and 13 free agents and 11 new starters. Gone were Warrick Dunn and Alge Crumpler and Rod Coleman and so many others. Gone was the franchise centerpiece, Michael Vick.
Dimitroff trained under the best personnel man in the NFL, New England’s Scott Pioli. Blank hired him after his pursuit of Parcells blew up. One thing that went wrong actually went right.
Dimitroff was preoccupied before the game. He missed a call to his cell phone. Fortunately, Pioli left a message.
“It was a real emotional message about the magnitude of having the chance to do what I do in this game,” Dimitroff said. “He just said to enjoy the first game, embrace the moment. It left a lump in my throat.”
Next week, the Falcons will play game two. It will be strange circumstances. They’ll have something good to look back on.
Permalink | Comments (212) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL
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By Big Daddy
September 7, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Michael who? Ryan did something in his first game that Vick never did … LEAD his team to three touchdowns on their first three drives. I like this team even if they go 1-15.
By Michael Coulon
September 7, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
I am sending this to you since your organization has gotten self insulated to the point that it is almost impossible to express an opinion that is not a response to some issue on your site. My opinion is simple and relates to Bret Favre: he is not the greatest and never has been. Should the Jets show an improvement, I’d rather doubt the mere presence of Bret will have a hell of a lot to do with it. Atlanta won today, and we have a first year quarterback, but folks, it is only one game. If there is significant improvement, it will be more due to new management and clever off-season trades, not soley because of the acquisition of a hot-shot college quarterback.
By New Falcons Fan
September 7, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
How’d Glen Dorsey do today?
By Billy Hoyle
September 7, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
Well put. These last 18 months have been unreasonably difficult, for even the most passionate of Falcon fans. For one day, one Sunday, there was a sense of pride found within that crowd of Falcon faithful. The pride is a complement of the teams will to do the simple things, block, tackle, and play special teams. It a pride found within running backs who run through tackles, and a defensive line who blasts off the ball. Realistically, this team will lose more games then then they win, but lack of pride will not be a reason why.
By huck22
September 7, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this
It was quite amazing watching a quarterback drop back and hit a receiver in stride…it was refreshing watching an offensive line drive people off of the football…and those two backs, Turner and Norwood compliment each other well. The leadership, from Blank-Dimitroff-Smith-Ryan is solid…finally something to be excited about at the Dome!
By George
September 7, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
You are correct, Michael Coulon. It wasn’t just the acquisition of a hot shot QB. It started with Dimitroff. It seems to me that he does indeed havea eye for talent as well as a eye for knowing who to cut regardless of who they are. I saw a TEAM out there today. Most of the time the defense was swarming around the ball which is a good sign of good coaching. Playmakers made plays including the offensive line who opened huge holes for Turner and Norwood. Of course what the RB’s did after the first 15 yards were all them and they rocked. Ryan played a great first game. He mostly played smart, made some big plays and the mistakes he made were minor and nothing really different than what his veteran contemporaries make every Sunday. All in all, a solid effort. No, I’m not ready to send these boys off to the Superbowl nor will I start whispering playoffs but I saw a solid team out there who seem to buy into what this fine coach is telling them. Congrats, Blank…and thanks!
By real fan
September 7, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
All I can say is well played, we have suffered enough and have the staff and players in place to turn it around. I am taking this for exactly what it is a WIN! Time will tell what kind of team we have- its not up to me or anyone else to speculate about that now. Lets take this at face value and pull for our team again next week.
By Falconer
September 7, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Great article Jeff!!! Boy does it feel great to be an Atlanta Falcon fan today!!! I’m so proud of our team - they really showed what they’re made of. And to Mr. Blank … thanks for never giving up on this team or this city.
By Edward
September 7, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Let me start off by saying just how proud of the way that the entire Falcons team performed today in an impressive 34-21 win over the Detroit Lions. Matt Ryan looked like a poised quarterback one that had been there before even though it was his first NFL game. Matt Ryan is a breath of fresh air and is exactly what this football team needed, a breath of fresh air and a positive role model for the team and the fans. As for Michael Turner he lit the Lions defense up with his 220 yards rushing on the day. Now that we have put the past 18 months behind us we can move on and become more united as a football team around character football players. The Birds need to go to Tampa next week and make it 2-0.
By Derrick
September 7, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this
It was amazing to see “some” at the dome with #7 jersey’s on show so little (if any) appreciation for what Ryan (and the rest of the Falcons “TEAM”) did today. Nevertheless, us Falcon faithful still welcome you to cheer OUR team.
Go Falcons ! Go Dawgs !
By Falcon Fan Since Day One
September 7, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
As a teenager, I attended the very first Falcon’s Home Game in 1966. Today I was there as Fifty-Something Falcon fan to see the season opening victory over the Lions. This was a fantastic and unforgettable beginning for Thomas Dimitroff, Mike Smith, Michael Turner and Matt Ryan.
Arthur Blank was always willing to spend his Home Depot Dollars to make this team a winner and now it looks he has gotten the right management team in place. It seems to me like there is now a core of new players to build a solid team around. Let’s hope this is truly the beginning of the type of long term succeess, that this franchise has never seen.
Thanks for giving me hope - Go Falcons!
By Sam
September 7, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
Congrats to the Falcons! I hope to read the same type of article in October about the Thrashers.
By Big Skee
September 7, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
This was the first game in almost two years I enjoyed watching. Turner is a beast, I never predicted he would break the single game record his first game. I hope he can keep up the energy and keep breaking tackles. I feel that this team can really do some big things. Keep it up guys! I’ll be watching and cheering and buying tickets as long as you keep up the energy and professionalism. Next stop Tampa Bay. Go Falcons!!
By BirdDawgFan
September 7, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
I admit that I was wrong about Matt Ryan, I wanted Dorsey. Ryan was poised and played a terrific game. However, the stars of the game were Turner and the O line. They racked up the yardage. We cant get to far ahead of ourselves this early but its a great start.
By Trainwreck
September 7, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
This might be the happiest I am all season but you can’t complain with a 1-0 start!
By Brad
September 7, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
I felt like this before today’s game, but after seeing the Falcons today, I believe they will surprise many people this year if they can stay healthy. The schedule is relatively weak, so this team will have a surprisingly good record. Super Bowl contenders…certainly not! But they are a solid team and will have a solid year. Matt is the real deal. As much as he learned prior to today, imagine what 3 or 4 games will do for him. The Burner is also the real deal. Norwood looked very good. The receivers looked good and will be great having a quarterback who understands how to lead receivers and when to throw using touch. The defense may not be a star studded bunch, but being void of dissenting loud mouths like they had last year, and playing as a unit, they will do fine. The new GM and head couch have done a great job. This is a high character group that we can be proud of! I look forward to watching them! Go Falcons!
By Brendan
September 7, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, and a 50-yard FG by Jason Elam? OMG, it looks and feels like … a normal, regular, respectable NFL franchise.
And ya know what they about the team that finishes LAST in the NFC South, don’tcha? (What?) They win the division the next year. Which, would mean … Holy Jumpin’ Frijoles!! The Falcons are next!! May history REPEAT itself!
Nice article, JEff.
By ProudTechFan
September 7, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
I am will be the first one to say this, and say this proudly… I am happy the falcons picked Matt Ryan and not Glen Dorsey… He didnt light the Lions up for 320 yards but he didnt have to..it is obvious he has the attention of his team mates and they believe in him. I honestly thought Glen Dorsey was the future of this defense and would lock up the middle of the line for years to come.. well i havent heard his name all summer and Matt Ryan has the attention of the league… That first pass was great and the catch was even better.. hopefully this is a break out year for Jenkins and an even bigger year for MICHAEL THE BURNER TURNER… this kid has great vision and great ability… i am so proud of the Falcons today and this game was almost blacked out… what a shame that would have been…
first my Jackets get a win yesterday on the road and today my Falcons played inspired and confident…
GO FALCONS!!!
By Frederick Douglass (Bailey)
September 7, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Great win for a deserving owner and organization.
The long throw to White was of the variety that I had not seen consistently from Vick…or any other Falcons QB save Bartkowski, Miller, Chandler and maybe George. Running and throwing the ball DOWN the field wins games.
Kudos to the staff for starting Ryan and sticking to football basics: Blocking, Tackling, Running…and Play Action.
By vnjagvet
September 7, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Ryan’s QB rating today was 137. Not a bad start.
His most impressive stat was 1 sack for minus 2 and no interceptions.
They guy knows where receivers are, looks for options and gets rid of the ball.
And the offensive coordinator was several steps ahead of Detroit’s defense most of the day, allowing the line to open holes for excprional running back play; the best I have ever seen in 40 years of Falcon watching. I don’t know when I have seen anyone run the ball 22 times averaging 10 yards per carry as Turner did.
Finally, the defense adjusted to the Detroit passing game at half time.
All in all a good performance.
By Karl
September 7, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
This team looked like they expected to win and that luck had nothing to do with the win. Great coaching job. Makes you have hope for game #2.
By tony
September 7, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
They actually looked like a professionally managed football team!!
Finally a QB who see over the line of scrimmage.
Excellent start coach Smith!!
By Jeff
September 7, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
I hope this is the beginning of something grand. We Falcons fans have suffered for generations through nightmare after nightmare. While I am not counting my chickens yet, it is certainly encouraging to see talent being fulfilled. Go Falcons Go!
By Vick Supporter
September 7, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
Lol, you people are funny. i hate to be the negative one all the time, but……. its the truth. The falcon fans are acting like Montana was in the building. Matt Ryan did a good job in “MANAGING” the game. Turner won’t run like that every week, I gurantee it. The difference with this team compared to the Mora teams, is that the Falcons seem to have a real coach now, Vick had to play with a front office and coaching staff that didn’t have a clue. Regardless what of what you people say about Vick, he’s better than Ryan, there’ no question about that. Too bad Roddy White couldn’t catch a ball when Vick was here, and you people know it, Jenkins either. Overall, good job to Arthur Blank, he’s a good man, and he deserves a good game sometime.
By john murphy
September 7, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan will never embarrass the organization, his teammates or the city of Atlanta; he is nothing short of a class act. Give him the weapons and he will work hard enough to be all pro. Watching the GT game yesterday BC has a couple of guys I’d like to get next year, their two defensive tackles and linebacker he’s a beast Hertzlex
By john murphy
September 7, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan will never embarrass the organization, his teammates or the city of Atlanta; he is nothing short of a class act. Give him the weapons and he will work hard enough to be all pro. Watching the GT game yesterday BC has a couple of guys I’d like to get next year, their two defensive tackles and linebacker he’s a beast Hertzlex
By john murphy
September 7, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan will never embarrass the organization, his teammates or the city of Atlanta; he is nothing short of a class act. Give him the weapons and he will work hard enough to be all pro. Watching the GT game yesterday BC has a couple of guys I’d like to get next year, their two defensive tackles and linebacker he’s a beast Hertzlex
By donald
September 7, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
Doth one game not a season makes! This was a 50/50 game for the team in that they had a 50/50 chance to win it and while I congratulate them on the win, the usual suspects are there. Ryam has not proven a thing to me, Turner will not gain over 200 yards week in and week out, and the defense is still young and full of holes. What is important is that the team takes this win for what it is, 1 of 16. The TB game, although early is HUGE because this team has a chance to put TB in an 0-2 hole in the division. Falcons need to forget about this win, let Blank celebtate it, and prepare for TB. If they win next week….
By Les
September 7, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Can we just celebrate the win without bashing Michael Vick. Vick did some amazing things for the city and the Atlanta Falcons franchise. He help put Atlanta on the national scene with alot of nationally televised games. Nobody paid attention to Atlanta until Vick came. That being said, I thought the whole team looked very good today. Matt Ryan is very poised to be a Rookie. Th O-line is looking better than it has in years. Turner and Norwood were amazing. GO FALCONS!!!
By robbo
September 7, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Man, what a breath of fresh air! Congrats to our new Falcons! Can’t say enough good….. in all areas. Yeah, it’s just one game but, this pretty much says it all …
One game. One win. It felt like so much more.”
Perfect Jeff!
By Reg
September 7, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
It was a great game and a fantastic first step in rebuilding the franchise. Solid outing on both sides of the ball. However, I will hold a bit a praise in reserve until I see them in action against the Bucs next week. They don’t need to win, they just need to continue to do what Petrino did not: be prepared and play as hard as they can each week. If they can do that for 16 weeks I think Falcon fans will be pleasantly surprised.
By Peter de
September 7, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Kudos to Mularky, Van Gorder and Coach Smith. Lets hope they are dynamic enough with their schemes to fend off every team they play, and not end up in that graveyard of a team known as Oakland.
By joe
September 7, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
Vick supporter.
You boy Mike is where he belongs. It wasn’nt Jenkins,White Fen, Crumpler or any other recievers fault by boy is/was not an NFL QB .
By Bk Hawk
September 7, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Great day for Atlanta, Fans and Falcons Team. Big thanks to Coach Smith, Big “D” and Mr. Blanks for a job well done.
Now Mr. Blanks please buy the Braves and clean that mess up.
Great job to GT!! and UGA!!also GSU!!
By mahjk17
September 7, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
why is no one talking bout john abraham or the mike murlekeys play calling. i think we finally have a good offensive coordinator and abraham was a beast he had 3 sacks in like ten minutes of play the guy is stud. jamaal anderson looked a lot better today then he did in the preseason as well. and oh chris houston needs to learn how to turn around is like he is always in possesion to make a big play but he doesnt turn around once he learns how to locate the ball he is going to be pro bowl caliber corner
By Howard the Duck
September 7, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
I wonder if “Vick Supporter” has any idea how ignorant he sounds?
Of course, like their lord and savior, most Vickheads are lacking in the intellect department, so I guess we shouldn’t be too surprised when they say something stupid.
In the meantime, “Vick Supporter”, why don’t try to arrange a conjugal visit with your hero? Maybe you can slip him a couple of dollars, too. From what I hear, he needs the money.
By Ahill
September 7, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
This is one game!!!! Atlanta should beat this team. They can not stop the run!! Atlanta should win 2 or 3 more games. Be happy now people.Just live in the moment. Stop bashing Vick. The organization should not be ashamed of anything concerning Vick. Vick did what he did and no one else is at fault but him. Michael Vick is a better QB and athlete than Matt Ryan could ever dream of. Stop it with your Great White Hope Syndrome!!!
By Joe
September 7, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
Congrats ona great win….
If I have one complaint, it is clock management and first year coaches. End of first half. A little over a minute to go and Falcons ball 3rd and 7…. Detroit no time outs…. run the freakin ball. run the ball run the ball. Rookie QB. Run it amd milk the clock. Help the defense.
Other than that…. Great game.
By No Dawgs Here
September 7, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
I have to say I was impressed. To have your first NFL pass be a 62 yard TD, is just awesome. This proves that the Falcons made the right choice starting Mat Ryan. I disagreed with those “so-called” experts calling for the Falcons to go 1-15. They are better than that. Will they be a playoff team? Probably not. I see 6-10 as a reachable record this year. However; they could go 8-8 with some luck. Give them a couple of years fans. The starting blocks are almost there. Ryan and Turner make a great base for the offense. A few more key personnel on both offense and defense and the Falcons will be a contender. Make that down!! I think a strong TE and maybe a WR that can go in the middle consistently for the O and a DT and maybe another strong LB and the Falcons are a contender. One or 2 years we will be back!!
Go Falcons!!!
By The Grinch
September 7, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
I’m very proud of our team today. No, this doesn’t put us automatically in the playoffs, but watching a well coached and well played Falcons game is something we haven’t seen in years, and BOY does it feel good. I wonder where people like “This gets old” are at the moment?
By Giants Fan
September 7, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Good job guys. Your team looked very much better today than it has , I’d say over the past 2 years, at least. This fellow, Ryan, he comes from good stock. He’s intelligent and he’s a winner. Give him some protection and the Falcons should have a respectable season. Give him a couple of years and keep him from getting hurt and be a real team and you guys are gonna be in there for sure. It was nice watching a Falcons team today that was focused and driving. Unlike when that guy Vick was there. He was like watching a NASCAR race and you had a really fast car with a stuck accelerator but the steering wheel was broken! Again, nice win today!
By T
September 7, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
For the first time in about 2 and 1/2 years I can honestly say that I am happy to be a Falcons fan. Thanks for that Blank, Dimitrof, Smith, coaching staff and players!
This game was also the most well prepared and coached team I have seen from the Falcons in about 4 or 5 years. Schultz, you are correct… it was much more!
By gadawg
September 7, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
hey all you Vick-lovers, you can kiss Ryan’s azzzz
By GT87
September 7, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Great game for the Falcons. I started to get worried when Detroit scored the last 14 points in the first half - but the Falcons did a great job of shutting the door in the third quarter with 10 pts. Wow when was the last time Ga Tech, UGA and the Falcons all won on the same weekend.
By Falcon Fan
September 7, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
I was born into a family of Falcon Fans - my parents started the Falcon Fan Club in Montgomery, AL. Through all the years, coaches and players I have tried to pull for another team but always came back tot he Falcons no matter the record.
For the first time I can actually say: win or lose and no matter the record - I love this team and look forward to the future.
Great job guys!
By Matt Ryan Fan
September 7, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
As a transplant to Atlanta I have been looking for a reason to root for the Falcons. Mike Vick WAS NOT a reason for sure. Matt Ryan showed the kind of leadership that this franchise has lacked. Did you notice how appreciative Ryan was to his o-line and other teammates? You never saw the “me first” Vick show that kind of appreciation. Ryan is a great kid who has already earned the respect of his teammates. Did anyone notice how many smiles there were on the faces of the Falcons players today? The city of Atlanta can be proud of a Matt Ryan as a football player AND as a person of this community.
The Falcons can go 1-15 and they STILL have won me over as a fan. This is a team that is rootable.
Thomas Dimitroff has a plan and you can already see it in action - can’t say the same for the Rich McKay era.
By scott
September 7, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
AHILL
Great white hope syndrome? Most black people in Atlanta believe that Vick was some kind of great black god. There are a ton of great white quarterbacks in the league. No need for Ryan to be any kind of great white hope. If he’s good he is just another in a long line of white quarterbacks that have been good or great in this league. By the way how many super bowl’s did Vick lead the Falcons to? That’s right Chris Chandler was the QB that led the Falcons to the super bowl.
If anything Vick is the great black hope that failed miserably. But that’s ok black people of America, keep giving guys like vick passes for being idiots and then complain about the white man holding you down. Crap is getting old.
Back on topic, the Falcons got a win and that is huge but it’s one game. Ryan will have bad games, he’s a rookie, they happen. Turner won’t be able to run the ball like he did today every game but this team will be pretty good. 7 wins is a realistic goal. The secondary needs to step up because they were really bad today.
By True Falcon
September 7, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Difference between Ryan and Vick? Go back and look at some game tape. When the opponent had the ball you’d find Vick off by himself somewhere. No interaction with teammates, very little with coaches, no leadership. The story about Ryan outfitting the clubhouse with a new sound system is awesome. The kid just gets it.
Agreed about the clock management before the half. I was screaming at the TV (I live 700 miles away) when they came out in the gun on FIRST down. C’mon, rookie QB on his own 11 with under two minutes? Run three times and the half ends with a 14 pt. lead and momentum. Hell, for all you know Turner busts a long one. Unbelievable effort today by all- I couldn’t be more proud of this team. They really looked like they could do .500 or so this year which would far exceed expectations. GO BIRDS!!
By Ahill
September 7, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Howard the Duck Do not worry about Vick. Unlike you he will have the opportunity to make money again. Mike Vick has fans and he always will. You can not think that they must like Matt Ryan. Ryan will not be the Great White Hope you are praying for. Ryan showed nothing. Michael Turner is the reason for this win!!!!
By A hole a hill
September 7, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
A hole A hill,
Nice comment you racist sack of s—t. “great white hope syndrome” Your words speak for themselves as to the stupidity factor. I believe all the Falcons have been looking for is a QB with a head on his shoulders who understands the concept of “team.” As opposed to jailbait whose athletic prowess is never going to amount to squat in the NFL. I for one was glad to see a Falcons QB not run around like a chicken with his head cutoff(#7) and one that can recognize the weapons around him.
Go Falcons and A Hill go home. Boy are you dumb. Maybe your man Vick can rediscover the concept of team during pick up games at Leavenworth.. Welcome to the ATL Matt Ryan and a double welcome to Burner Turner.
By The Truth
September 7, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Ahill,
Great White Hope Syndrom? Really. Tom Brady, Eli Manning, Peyton Manning recent Super Bowl champions.
It doesn’t matter that they are white. What matters is that they are great quarterbacks. Give Ryan a couple of years in the league and he will also be a great quarterback.
Mike Vick was a great athlete and created some great memories for Falcons’ fans but he was no great quarterback. He was a great athlete who played quarterback.
By GT87
September 7, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Can’t we just enjoy the win without getting into the Vick situation. This is not a white/black thing - it is a Red/Black thing - Go Falcons
By Mike
September 7, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Great win, but it didn’t have to be this close.
Here’s a tip for a team with a rookier QB: With a minute left in the half, you’re on your own 15 and the other team has no timeouts — run the ball and run out the clock. We’re luck the end of the half TD did not come back to bite us.
Now, on with the lovefest…
By Doug Johnson revisited
September 7, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
DOUG JOHNSON SEPT 7, 2003…and the columns and comments that followed Can’t you just dig up those and change the names?
By supporter
September 7, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Shock wudda beat em by 50!
By Falcoholic
September 7, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
That felt so good! I certainly didn’t expect the blowout that was the first quarter. There was great play on both sides of the line. The play scripting was well conceived. The team was prepared, even if it was just the Lions. And though the Lions may be mostly a sub .500 team, they were expected to make this competitive. Not only did the Falcons play as a team, they had individuals step up, setting a franchise running record in the process.
Congratulations to the new staff on their first win and a great step towards respectability. Today we could be proud to be Falcons fans!
Now, about leaving the first string in, risking injury to key players, with a 13-point lead in the last five minutes….that’s the one criticism I have. Don’t do that!
By A hole A hill
September 7, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
GT87- I’d love to drop the Vick banter altogether but its kind of hard when morons like A Hill continue to bring it up. But there is no debating that WINNING quarterbacks in this league stay in the pocket. They also trust those around them and don’t try to take over with individual effort. Big team, little me- a concept that A hill doesn’t get. Fortunately Matt Ryan does and he is far more mature and capable than Vick was at this point in his career.(not saying much on the “mature” part) Its only one game but the ATL needs to get behind our QB- white, black, red, brown, yellow, whatever. The future is now and the past is in Leavenworth.
By hollywould
September 7, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Great column Jeff. O-line was the key. Yeah, I know it is the first gsme but what a good feeling. One thing though, with the Lions out of timeouts near the end of the half why in the hell were we throwing? I was shocked at that decision. Otherwise, let”s make the Bucs 0-2.
By VICK ERA NOT OVER
September 7, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Until the AJC can focus on the team as it is, then the Vick Era is not over. Until the comments can be about who IS on the team as opposed to who hasn’t played a down in over a year, then the Vick Era is not over. As it is, not even the commentators on TV can refrain from mentioning Mike Vick’s name. He is what makes this team relevant and apparently a win against the Lions definitely didnt do the trick. The same people claiming its a new era and Mike who, will still be bringing up Vick’s name 5 years from now, he’s the only person that actually pulls THEM in! LOL
By hop
September 7, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
great win for the falcons and somthing that they can build on.
matt ryan played a good game, reading defenses and changing plays when necessary.
he was very accurate in his passing and he has the repect of the team.
the running game was awesome aND MICHAEL TURNER is the real deal.offenive line open huge holes and the defense was great as well.
By ron
September 7, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Lord knows we don’t need to start this racial crap on here. This roster has been totally revamped with players of good character, both black and white. They won this game today as a TEAM!!
By michaelgee
September 7, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
The Falcon’s fortunes changed forever today. We delivered the goods.
For the first time ever we have great management, great coaching and great players who won’t sell us out, all these things have never been present at the same time. Today was real.
This started the day Mr Blank moved Rich McKay aside and made the decision to hire Thomas Dimitroff. Followed by the hiring of a Professional Coaching Staff. Mr Blank made that call on TD, he stepped back and let Thomas do his thing. Thank you Mr Dimitroff, great job!
No more half measures, no more compromise, no more of Rankin Smith’s “Bargain Basement” players.
Today was exactly what as described Jeff.
Today was a Reckoning!
I am happy for all the Falcon Fans who endured the last 18 months, but I am the happiest for Mr Blank for keeping the faith in our team.
fwiw, there were still a number of 7 jerseys in my section, by the third quarter I saw them cheering wildly.
That made it even better.
By Ryan
September 7, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
This game felt like breathing after a year underwater. The only thing for fun than watching the game will be watching the “experts” eat crow tomorrow.
PS - I bought a #2 jersey on draft day. Thanks for not making a fool out of me.
By supaATL
September 7, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Great win. Let’s savor this for a couple days.
By milram
September 7, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Please get off of vick’s back and enjoy this win and the direction of the team. Having been a witness to the pre vick falcons I appreciated when he was there and the dome sold out. If there is anyone who doubts what vick brought to the team look at his winning percentage he got it done more often than not. with that said he is no longer a falcon and I hope he can get his life together. I now have hope the season will not be a total bust. We beat the Lions, but lets reserve judgment on this team until we see how they respond to competent game planning and adversity. I appreciete the history of what vick did for football in atl but am excited about the future.
By Lefty Blank
September 7, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
I am glad #7 is in prison where he belongs.
Go Falcons!
By MightyQuinn
September 7, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
I gotta admit I watched the first quarter with my jaw hanging open. Wow! If the Falcons can continue to run the ball and control the line of scrimmage (both sides of the ball) like they did today, it will be a fun season to watch. The bigggest concern is what we saw of the cornerback play. Kitna isn’t exactly Brady or Manning and we got shredded, though that was a hellacious pick by Malloy. Ryan will manage the team and the game well. Key moment: Big lead, second half, Ryan at the line, play isn’t right, Ryan starts to walk off, looks up at play clock and lets it run down before calling time. Matty Ice, indeed!
By Falcon to the bone
September 7, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
ahhh, the sweet taste of victory. let’s savor it today then get focused tomorrow. TB will be hungry for a win. It does feel good, though. I might go buy a Turner jersey.
By Darrell W Ingram
September 7, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
As a long time Falcon fan, I was stunned by todays game. We actually looked great! I know it’s only one game in a long season, but it sure has improved my outlook. I’ve now gone from 1-15 to 5-11 prediction.
By ha ha ha
September 7, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
The Falcons beat the pathetic Lions and people are acting like this team will be in the Super Bowl this year. Im glad this team got the win but lets be realistic here. I could have taken a few people off this blog and let Schultizie Wultzie play qb and we would have put up 21 againt the sorry Lions. Talk to me after we play teams with real a real defense. If the Falcons can control the clock and Ryan can manage the game then this team will be alright.
I know a lot of you hate Vick for some reason although you never met the guy nor did he ever harm any of you but lets be real here. In his first full season as a starter he took a team with an average at best supporting cast and made the playoffs. If Ryan does not make the playoffs this year is he still better than Vick? Can you people enjoy a victory without bringing up Vick. The people who say they have moved on from Vick or closed that door seem to be the ones who always bring him up. Until Ryan accomplishes even half of the things Vick did here (regardless if some on here will never give him credit)lets hold off on puttng him in the Hall of Fame. The last guy people hyped up on here was the great Schaub and from what im seeing he is looking like an average qb who probably should be sat down so the backup can start. Yea the backup for Schaub is actually better.
By Gray Mule
September 7, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
Those Vick fans who cry about Falcon’s QB being white, a question - What about the other guys? Check it out. Not all the Falcons are white.
The Sporting News has Atlanta with one win this season. We’ve got that! Falcons have heroes today that know no color barrier. They are just Falcons - Our team!!
Now we can live in hopes of more than one win this season!!
Gray Mule
By Kerryb
September 7, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
All of you Vick drum beaters and all of you idiots that said that we should have picked Dorsey. Don’t you all feel stupid now!
By Howie
September 7, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
The most impressive thing about todays game was the second half.. Getting started 21 - 0 caught the Lions offguard…They were coming back at halftime…But to shut them down in the third quarter and keep the game out of reach was quite an accomplishment for a young team and a brand new coaching staff…What a positive way to start the season!!!!
By Green
September 7, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
if we played this game with about the same roster as last year, we would’ve lost the game 21-10. good job falcons for starting over! its amazing to see how far this organization has come this since the mike vick stuff first broke out in early ‘07
go falcons!
By George Holman
September 7, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
As a long-suffering fan since ‘67, I was very proud of the team, the coaches, management, and Arthur Blank. I think we are getting it right! Congrats to all!
By Ron Roberts
September 7, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Gotta agree w/those who say…
1. Best game for a Falcons’ fan to watch in over two years, bar-none.
2. Clock management needs working on. Why, on earth, are we throwing on 2nd and 3rd down with inside the 2:00 warning and up 14, already? Let the clock run!!! Seriously, we should’ve gone into the lockerroom up 21-7, with a completely different mindset. I’m sure the coaches - grading themselves - will note that.
I only chuckle when reading a MV7 apologist who now wants to blame the inability of this team to succeed with a previous QB on everybody but the previous QB. The previous QB had his skills (running, cannon arm), but also came with his inabilities (precision passing, grasping the entire playbook, actuallyin studying the whole playbook instead of waiting on the coaches to dumb it down for you, oh, and, of course, choosing better offseason hobbies come to mind). The previous QB had a coaching system in place, when he was drafted, that would’ve suited him just fine, but when ownership asked him (and why, I’ll never understand, would Arthur Blank even ask a non college-educated hardly-a-veteran-player is beyond me to begin with) which direction the franchise needed to go, he didn’t exactly give a ringing endorsement to the one coach who let him be him.
Today was D E L I G H T F U L. Real football schemes, real QB play, a real running game with a real blocking scheme and real Falcons fans in the stands.
Really nice start to a new era. I look forward to watching this team progress. I’m thinking secondary help in the offseason or draft; just an initial reaction. :)
By darrell starks
September 7, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
its just one game but we won easy 34 to 21 take it game by game you never no this team will surprise a lot of people COUPLE OF WEAKNESS in THIS GAME ADAM JENNING must be replace at punt return let harry dougales return punt and second keith brooking miss a lot of playes at linebacker he have to do better or replace him with nicklas at LINE backer other than THAT COACHING GETS AND A PLUS AND GAME BALL GO TO OFFENSE LINE GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Jwill
September 7, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
Standing ovation for the o line and Micheal Turner.Matty Ice sho made be forget about ol Glen Dorsey today.Great game and keep improving.Really proud of my FALCONS
By Jwill
September 7, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Standing ovation for the o line and Micheal Turner.Matty Ice sho made be forget about ol Glen Dorsey today.Great game and keep improving.Really proud of my FALCONS
By Ron Roberts
September 7, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
ha ha ha… I loved Michael Vick before I found out he slaughtered dogs in his spare time.
Does that not register with you, dude? He knew what he was doing was illegal, knew that if he got caught, he’d face scrutiny and possible jail time, knew it would adversely affect his football team, and did it anyhow.
Is that not reason enough to strong dislike him, now? To hope that my beloved NFL team has turned a page, a corner, and has a brighter future now?
Your hero put this team through unnecessary heartbreak, hand-wringing, and a lost season and future because this team had put so much focus on him and to building itself around him.
But you don’t understand why Falcons fans could possibly have a negative feeling about him???
Are you dense?
By Darrell Starks needs hooked on phonics
September 7, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Darrell Starks,
Go back to grade school and take some grammer/english courses my man. People that can’t write or spell shouldn’t be on blogs. I’m not sure what game you were watching- but Keith Brooking was all over the place in the game I saw. He had a great game and he epitomized the renewed energy of this team. He looked like he was 10 years younger out there flying around. I’m guessing you may have something else against brooking, but you sure as heck don’t know a thing about football.
By Hot Sauce
September 7, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
The Dome was rocking! Congrats Falcons players, coaches, and fans! Oh yea, and the hot dance team. A new era indeed. Now if we can get a better transit system. And why does UGAg’s band have to play at the dome. Awful
By jerry
September 7, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Todays win was a team effort. I know that the running backs were superb, but it all starts with the offensive line. If they can play as well as they did today, for the rest of the season, the Falcons will be a good team this year.
As long as the running game can remains effective, that will keep the pressure off of Ryan having to carry the team.
Enjoy this win, but know that there’s still work to be done in Falcon land.
Tampa Bay is a much better team than Detroit, New Orleans is expected to win it all this year, and Carolina is no slouch, so let’s hope that the players avoid injury, and continue to improve from week to week.
Go Birds!!!
By darrell starks
September 7, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
WHAT YOU MEAN MY MAN YOU MUST LUV THE MOST OVERRATED LINE BACKER IN FALCON HISTORY WHAT PLANET YOUR OWN AND BY THE YOU MISS OUT ON A COUPLE OF SPELLING GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!
By ye olde BC fan
September 7, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
John Murphy
I’m sure DT Brace and Raji wouldn’t mind rejoining their former teamate Ryan next year, but I hope LB Herzlich stays another year. He’s only a junior. Very athletic and even more intelligent.
PS. Good win by GT. A very fast backfield that can strike quickly.
By kerryb
September 7, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
I remember that idiot on ESPN Marcellus Wiley that played for Coach Smith in Jacksonville and got cut by him saying that Smith was not a leader and did’nt know why the Falcons hired him. I guess what we know now shows that he did have sour grapes. This also shows what kind of objective analyst that ESPN has.
By Robert FItzpatrick
September 7, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Well Good evening to all. I have been watching football since before most of you were born, and frankly need to clarify (for my own sake) a couple of things:
The Falcon fans and the city in general deserve such class… it has been a while.
By Boo Boo
September 7, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Only 1 win away from proving The Sporting News wrong.
Hopefully, the tickets for most of the 15,000 empty seats were owned by Braves fans who thought the best chance of a home team victory was at the Ted. If so, they should be in the GA Dome by the time KC comes to town.
By Bill
September 7, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
Ahill—-Vick may be a better athlete but not a better QB.The falcons are a team rebilding we did not say they would win the Super Bowl this year.
By Bill
September 7, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
Ahill—-Vick may be a better athlete but not a better QB.The falcons are a team rebilding we did not say they would win the Super Bowl this year.
By JD
September 7, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
I don’t think that anyone discounts what Michael Vick did for this franchise and this city. The Falcons were a respectable franchise while he was the qb of this team. He took the Falcons’ exposure to new heights and made them a dynamic team that a slew of fans followed. He became the face of the franchise, and we all (as fans) lived and died on what he did, or what he would do, on Sundays. It would be unfair to take that from him. Yes, he messed up by letting his boys talk him into something illegal, but when he was on that football field, he was something to behold.
There is no sports figure in Atlanta sports history to truly galvanize and split a fanbase like Michael Vick. By saying that, I am in no way condoning what he did, however Vick will maintain his legendary status in Atlanta, much like those that have come before him because of his accomplishments (let’s not go the route of pointing out what he hasn’t done). That being said, as a fanbase, let’s move on. Here’s something for people who aren’t going to support the team because Vick’s not here to think about - what if the Falcons aren’t who everyone thought they were? What happens then? Do you chalk it up as a fluke, as most people are already asserting? Or do you finally say that this TEAM has a good chance of being competitive and surprising to a whole lot of people and so-called ‘experts’ who said that they couldn’t win?
By Armond Hill
September 7, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Kudos to Matty Ice, the Burner, the O-line, Abraham, and the secondary. However I believe the game MVP should be Mularky. Thank God we have a coordinator that likes a toss sweep, timely play-action, and a verticle passing game.
I had not been a Van Gorder fan but saw some gutsy stuff from him in the preseason. We won today w/vanilla defense. Liking Van Gorder more and more.
Go Falcons, Hawks, and War Eagle
By slim
September 7, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
Great start. Ryan’s numbers are similar to Roethlesberger’s numbers from his rookie year. It seems like BR did not throw it more than 16-20 times very often.
This technique looks like the best way to let a rookie qb learn the game and keep his confidence.
it’s only one game, but definitely looking good for the future.
By preston
September 8, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
oh brother…here we go again. First off, very good win for the falcons. Very good start for Ryan b/c he is a true rookie, who showed very solid poised that reminded me a lot of Ben Roethlisberger in his rookie season. Micheal Turner sure made a believer out of me, unlike Ovie M. who hasn’t done much of anything for this team. O.k now can the Vick bashers and supporters just shut the hell up? I was a Vick fan while he was playing for the team, but his era with this team is over. I don’t condemn him like soo many of the jackasses on this blog, and I wish him well after he serves his time, but he has no more relevancy with this team…..he will never play for the falcons again……end of story.
By Jim P.
September 8, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
I thought that the Falcons had a good chance at winning today, I was suprised on how well they played! GREAT JOB BOYS!
Im very impressed, and I say BRING ON THE BUCS!!! I think we can handle them!!
By What!!
September 8, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
This team is kind of like Clayton County, After years of being run by Michael Vick, They need their Matt Ryan real bad!
By ha ha ha
September 8, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
Ron Roberts I should ask you are you dense since your reading comprehension skills are sub par at best. Where did I say he was my hero? I
By Vince
September 8, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
Don’t bet the house on it, but the falcons looked like a real pro football team. A quarterback who can throw, a running back who can run and wideouts that catch the ball. Now really, who wants to go back to the Vick era?
By ha ha ha
September 8, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
Ron Roberts I should ask you are you dense since your reading comprehension skills are sub par at best. Where did I say he was my hero? I remember saying that people should be able to enjoy a victory without bashing the former qb. I said no matter what he did off the field what he did for this team should be recognizd. If the former front office would have taken the time to build a team around him instead of hoping he could win every game himself then losing him last year wouldnt have been so bad. Luckily the new front office has a clue about building a team. At the end of the day its only football but you are acting like it is your life. I am a fan of what goes happens on the field. I could care less what a player does off the field. What they do off the field does not affect my life in any way. If Vick fighting dogs caused you to lose your job, caused you to be late on a bill, caused you to lose friends and family then by all means dislike the guy. If him fighting dogs had no effect on your personal life then I dont understand the dislike. Stop crying dude and grow a pair.
By VMichael Who?
September 8, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this
Come on, Vick Supporter - do you really believe Michael Vick is a better quarterback than Matt Ryan? Vick was a runner first, “thrower” second, but never a good quarterback, never a true leader. Plus Vick was too busy killing dogs to put in the extensive film and classroom time that Ryan does. Ryan is a student of the game and has better decision-making abilities on the field than Vice. Go Falcons!
By Michael Who?
September 8, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
Come on, Vick Supporter - do you really believe Michael Vick is a better quarterback than Matt Ryan? Vick was a runner first, “thrower” second, but never a good quarterback, never a true leader. Plus Vick was too busy killing dogs to put in the extensive film and classroom time that Ryan does. Ryan is a student of the game and has better decision-making abilities on the field than Vick. Go Falcons!
By bsmith
September 8, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
Watched 1 hour ESPN Sportcenter tonight at 11:30 ET (I usually don’t because of their bias against all GA teams, college and professional) and there was not one mention of the Falcons. They spent the first 1/2 hour on Tom Brady and Brett Farve …
By welikebaseball2
September 8, 2008 2:21 AM | Link to this
Wow, amazing how you guys are ready to deem this guy “the quarterback we’ve been longing for,” “a better passer than the former QB,” “an upgrade at the position,” “a better decision maker than the former QB,” after one game, that’s one game. Were you all that desperate to dismiss the era of the former QB (along with his undeniable accomplishments) that after one game you’ve crowned your rookie QB saviour of the franchise? Wow. LOL. Look, I’m pulling for the team just as much as the next man, but let’s not get carried away.
By Vick Supporter
September 8, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this
Listen here all you Vick Haters, Yall just mad because Vick is the real deal of this football team. We will see when we are 1-7 then yall will be crying for micheal vick to return to this team. Yea Matt Ryan looked good but he played against the sorry lions and there high school football play. I think Dj Shockley should have been the starter but yall HATERS don’t want a black quarterback to play for the falcons. So When Vick Gets outta jail I will be in the VICK DOME wearing my #7 jersey and i stand behind my Quarterback. GO FALCONS AND FREE VICK!!!
By Dawgone
September 8, 2008 2:47 AM | Link to this
A hole A hill,
I dare say that your not 100% correct concerning great qb’s staying in the pocket.
It would be hard to argue that McNabb isn’t a great qb. No he isn’t Manning or Brady.
One of the better ol’time greats… A guy called Steve Young.
How about John Elway? Anyone remember when he would just take off?
And of course The New York Brett’s QB.
The only thing McNabb doesn’t have is that ring is the only argument that you can have.
Regardless he is worlds better than my bro Vick.
Shame though… So much talent wasted. Sad story that happens to much to my bros…
By Justice Supporter
September 8, 2008 2:48 AM | Link to this
Instead of wasting money on Falcons Season Tickets, I’d rather buy a ticket from the federal government to watch Mike Vick’s stretched neck swinging from a tree.
By AJC: race war supporters?
September 8, 2008 4:29 AM | Link to this
DEAR BLOG MONITOR, IF THE 2:48AM POST IS NOT REMOVED, KNOW THAT I WILL COPY & PASTE IT TO BE SENT TO WHOMEVER YOUR SUPERIORS ARE…GOING AS HIGH AS I NEED TO. I KNOW SOME PEOPLE DO CERTAIN THINGS FOR SHOCK VALUE OR BECAUSE THEY HATE THEIR OWN SITUATION IN LIFE, BUT I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE YOU ALL ARE PROVIDING A FORUM FOR SUCH COMMENTS. THIS IS NOT A BLUFF…BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO BELIEVE ME…
By Just sayin'
September 8, 2008 6:08 AM | Link to this
How can you tell if that comment was racially motivated? Maybe it wasn’t. Maybe that person just doesn’t like people involved killing dogs. Race may not matter there. But then again, I have no idea who Justice Supporter is. I’m just sayin’.
By AJC supports racism
September 8, 2008 6:39 AM | Link to this
IT DOESNT MATTER TO THE AJC IF RACIST STATMENTS ABOUT LYNCHING ARE MADE HERE. IT DOESNT MATTER TO THEM WHAT DEROGATORY THINGS ARE SAID IF ITS A BLACK PLAYER. THEY ACTIVELY ENCOURAGE THAT TYPE OF DIALOGUE. ITS INDICATIVE OF THE MINDSET OF THE SPORTS DEPARTMENT, THEIR COLUMNISTS AND THE ORGANIZATION AS A WHOLE. THEY HAVE BEEN DOING THIS SINCE 2001 AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO BECAUSE IT IS SIMPLY WHAT THEY DO
By Falcons Fan
September 8, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this
Great start for the Falcons. Ryan played very well and gets alot of respect from his teammates for standing in there. Offensive line was solid. Baker played well and I watched him knock several great blocks on runs by Turner.
Defense is still a concern when we play the better passing teams. And teams that can stuff the run will cause us big trouble .
Go Falcons !
By paulwhall
September 8, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this
Hey Michael Coulon, shut the hell up. We won today and that’s all that matters till next sunday. All those haters at work wont have nuthin to say to me for at least a week.Please please do something about the pass rush. That seems to be the weakest link so far.
By Allen Williams
September 8, 2008 7:33 AM | Link to this
I have been around Atlanta for almost 40 years and I have sensed that a new culture was underway for the Atlanta Falcons that I had not witnesed in my time here. That culture is really simple. Get rid of the ME guys and relplace them with WE guys. What a concept. I predict the new Falcons will achieve unprecidented success like Atlanta has not experienced in its sorted NFL history!
By Alan
September 8, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this
What a great day, celebrate and let the nay sayers find something else to complain about (The Falcons Won) if you happend to miss the fact that a lot of effort on everyone’s behalf produced a win that was suppose to be the first lost.The rest of the season can be exciting if we let the team, the management and the owner know how much we appreciate their dedication (I havn’t heard any player complaints, refreshing isn’t it). Thanks to all, don’t let up, you have shown that you have what it takes, GO TEAM.
By Lost in space ATL. Falcons
September 8, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this
vick is still the man. This team has more tools and now you think ryan is a god. let see what the tune is next week! Vick is still the better QB and all was will!
By Paddy
September 8, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this
Vick Supporter… You are right, Vick was better than Ryan. Vick was better than almost any player to come into the NFL. But not as a QB. On that scale he was well below the norm. Wish he would have started his career at another offensive position. 6’00” QB’s can’t make it in the NFL, even one as talented as MV. He was a sad story of wasted potential. Alas, his is not unique.
By some black guy
September 8, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
Good Job Coach Smith Good Job Thomas D Good Job M. Turner Good Job J. Norwood Good Job Matty Ice
Bad Job to all you lame people who gotta make sure you bring this Vick stuff up again. We just won… LET IT GO ALREADY… Lets get another one next week.
Its football season GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME!
By Birdbrain
September 8, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
Blah…blah…blah…they won a game. ACT LIKE YOU’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE. Building a championship legacy is about taking the next step after a season, not popping the cork after one win. Geez you like to hear yourself talk. Why don’t you scramble your cowardly self somewhere.
By Manny
September 8, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
Every time I come into these blogs, I don’t read the many comments. Many of them are just plain-old racist, and it shows that the racial issues are still alive and well in the South. So what I do is just give my views and watch to see if anyone addresses me personally.
That being said, I think that the Falcons are definitely on the right track. And there’s only two people that I can think of that should get the credit: Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff.
While I still have my worries and doubts (because the Lions are not a very good football team and at times looked completely disorganized), I can see how they are going to utilize their players. I saw how they are going to work their system. And the system is nice- much nicer than anything that the Falcons have had in recent memory. It’s the system that puts the majority of the load of carrying the offense on the backs of Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood. It’s the system that minimizes the role of Matt Ryan and let’s him utilize the best talent that he has: his brain. His decision-making ability is great. If his passes can match his brain, Matt Ryan is a Pro-bowler.
But the O-line is stout. I saw throwing lanes opened up. I saw running lanes opened up. I saw pass protection- something I haven’t seen in so long, I thought it was a mirage. That’s a good system.
The defense is strong, as well. The move to put Anderson at the DT spot was controversial, and brilliant. There was some nice pushes on the D-line. And #55 had 3 sacks. What?! 3 Sacks!
And for his first game, Brent Grimes is a nice addition to the secondary. He will get even better with time, though- because Roy Williams kinda exposed him a little bit at the end. And Chris Houston was exposed a little, too. But all in all, a good defensive effort by all.
But I do have some big concerns. Matt Ryan only attempted 13 passes that game. With 300 yards rushing, I guess he didn’t need to pass more. But what happens if somehow a team shuts down the running game? Can Matt Ryan take a game over? Can he win a game? I’m not sure because he have not been put in that position in the NFL before. We shall see.
Also, the Secondary missed some assignments, and we are still green in those positions.
And the Detroit Lions are a terrible team. Are the Falcons really that good, or are the Detroit Lions that bad?
By Joe
September 8, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
If Matt Ryan were black, they would love him. SORRY!
By Flacon Fan
September 8, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
It’s sad that after a great opening game that color comes up. WE HAVE COACHING NOW. That was the difference in this game. Open Receivers, Clear running lanes and In-game adjustments. Plug an Chug the players with others and this game should have come out the same. GET OFF THE PLAYERS AND APPRECIATE THE TEAM EFFORT.
By Darrell Starks needs hooked on phonics
September 8, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this
Darrell,
Thanks for your reply- you’ve once again proved my point that you can’t read or write. Keith Brooking’s been to how many Pro Bowls again?? Thats right- you can’t hide dumb.
By Tree Rollins
September 8, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff should both be given all the credit for the offseason rebuild. The finished product is WAY beyond anyone’s expectations. And it’s not just Matt Ryan although he is just what the doctor ordered.
The team looked the best it has since Mora’s initial season here. Now message to Arthur - shut up, stay up in the luxury box, don’t get yourself involved - and let these professionals run this team! They obviously know what they are doing.
By A hole A hill
September 8, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
Dawgone,
You are correct- there have been a few exceptions to my “pocket passers win championships” argument. Although Donovan McNabb is not one of those until he actually brings home the trophy. But even the guys you mentioned stayed in the pocket much longer than Vick, and running was more of an afterthought as opposed to the primary option. And I’m not sure I would classify John Elway as a mobile, running QB either. Thats a little bit of a stretch..
By Jammer
September 8, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this
After 18 embarassing months the Michael Vick #7 era is over. No matter what happens the rest of the season a new era is upon us. With the fist throw of his career and Matt Ryan helped change it. With the first step of his Atlanta career Michael Turner helped change that. With the first block of his career Sam bAker helped change that. There was electricity in the area at the Georgia Dome again!! Finally!!! If we could get Brian Van Gorder to leave AGAIN to destroy another college program the Falcons would be on their way.
By Marie
September 8, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this
It was a great win for the Falcons and its nice to see the new “Mike” era begin; that is Michael Turner. It is obvious that the Falcons will fashion their offense after the SD Chargers — a decent (not great) quarterback playing behind the will and legs of a strong running back. Is that enough to win a Super Bowl? Well it hasn’t been for the Chargers, but, then again they have Norv Turner (the perennial loser) for a coach. So it still remains to be seen.
And while Matt Ryan did a decent job on yesterday (I will give credit to whom credit is due); one good game does not a quarterback make. Remember Vick haters you were blogging about how great Matt Schaub looked after his 1st game last year. And there is no doubt the Texans are going to demote that sorry clown after about 2-3 games into the season; that is if Gomer doesn’t hurt himself first.
Finally, to all you Vick haters please do me a favor. Contact Arthur Blank and remind him that he said he would release Michael Vick after all the legal shenanigans involving the bonus money was over. Well its over because the judge has ruled in Vick’s favor and with his filing bankruptcy the Falcons have zero chance of collecting on the 3.75 million that the judge ruled they could obtain.
So please encourage the front office of the Falcons to release Michael Vick outright now so he will have the opportunity to play for the team of his choice next year. Including the Bucs where Jon Gruden would do anything to have Vick as his QB.
By littlebird
September 8, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
Any comments, references to or about color, dog fighting or prison—past, present or future should be banned from blogging. If you support the team you won’t just focus on one player—regardless of what position he plays. This IS A TEAM SPORT!!! Boxing, wrestling, tennis etc. are for INDIVIDUALS … Now just DO IT!
By D.Ellis
September 8, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
As a Falcon fan I’m thrilled to death with the win.
But since half this blog is about our old QB Vick…and basically riddeled with race comments……it takes away from the enjoyment.
Go FALCONS. BEAT THE BUCS
By Zoomie
September 8, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Great game. Definitely a new, good look for the Falcons. When the team reviews the game tapes, I hope they pick up on these items which will cause us big problems with better teams: 1) Clock management (already mentioned by others on this blog); 2) Better 3rd down play calling — why are we giving/passing the ball to Norwood on third and short/medium? We’ve got a big, strong, bull of a back. He should get the ball in these situations; 3) The defensive line needs to apply more pressure — they played pretty well, but need to get deeper beyond the line of scrimmage, and faster; 4) Need to work with Houston (23) to keep his head in the game — his illegal contact and pass interference penalties were very costly. Great showing for our first game. I’m proud of the Falcons organization and very happy with the play and composure of our rookie quarterback!
By Schultz = Idiot
September 8, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
Schultz,
Before I forget, nice prediction of a BC win over GT this weekend. Hope you didn’t put too much money down on them covering the spread as you had expected. We all know your true colors are red, black, and silver. It is what it is. But Go Jackets!!
By Submariner683
September 8, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
It’s nice to see that all Falcons’ fans can enjoy a victory and not talk about things in the past. Oh, wait, many can’t.
It’s funny to see that the posts here are as much about Vick as they are about the game.
I personally don’t think Vick was a “great” QB. He was a phenomenal, unprecidented athlete. His presence alone put the Atlanta on the national conscience like no single athlete ever has in Atlanta pro sports history.
Much has been made about the almost blackout here. I grew up in Atlanta and I can tell you, in the 80s, a broadcast blackout was the norm vice the exception for all home games. When Vick was in Atlanta, they sold out. They got nationally televised games. They got talked about a lot more on ESPN.
Vick was an exciting player to watch. He had the potential to do something amazing every time he had the ball. He also had the ability to do something silly as well every time he had the ball. Bottom line, he put fans in the seats. Was he helped out by the Atlanta demographics as well? Yes.
Anyway, he is gone, he’s not coming back. I’d say, “get over it”, but that’s not going to happen.
Ryan had one solid game. One game does not make a season or a career. At all. But his TD pass was a perfect toss. He caught Jenkins in stride and threw it before Jenkins had even made his cut. When Jenkins turned the ball hit him perfectly. That’s a very difficult pass to make, but as you can see, when you complete a pass like that, the defense is not expecting it at all. That shows a lot of promise.
Ryan is geniunely excited to play for the franchise as well. Let’s face it, the last 18 months has not put this team on the top of the lists for FAs and such. Turner came to the Falcons because they paid above what the market was for him. But if he keeps running like that, he will be a bargain. I was really glad some moron in my fantasy league dropped him so I could pick him up, btw…:)
I know every QB looks great when one RB runs for 220 and the other runs for 94 yards. Give Ryan a chance. He has good vision of the field, is making good choices, and he has the ability to make big plays.
By Traceman
September 8, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
Great game yesterday. I was really proud of how the team performed in all facets of the game.
Michael Turner and Jerious Nowrwood were both incredible and took full advantage of the crater-sized holes the O-line opened up. Baker and Blaylock simply manhandled their opponents all day.
Matt Ryan did a really good job of managing the game as a whole and he made plays when asked to do so. That first throw was a thing of beauty! The only time I thought he looked a little shaky was not even his fault. As Ron Roberts said, why in the world are we throwing the ball TWICE from inside our own 15 with a 21-7 lead and a rookie QB? DET had NO timeouts left. All we had to do was run the ball 2 or 3 times and take a 21-7 lead into the half. Come on Coach!
As for the D, I thought they did a good job of limiting a VERY explosive offense. We won’t play a team with two better wideouts all season. Take away that TD right before the half that DET never should have had a chance to get anyway and the D looked solid.
Special teams were solid in all phases.
I give the coaching a B+ and it would have been an A if they had done a better job of managing the clock/situation at the end of the first half.
I really liked what I saw from the team yesterday. Good, sound fundamental football was absent last year with Petrino in charge. The team had no identity. In just ONE game of the Mike Smith era, our identity is clear. The power running game sets up opportunities for big plays off play action and oh yeah, our backs can take it to the house on any play too. Our D is all about stopping the run and limiting big plays.
I still believe that Glen Dorsey would have upgraded the D considerably (Jackson and Dorsey in the middle would be RIDICULOUS) BUT another performance or two from Matty Ice like that and I have to agree with our GM the QB was the way to go. Sure will be nice to be able to say that the GM was right on this one.
By maddoxh
September 8, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
This game had everything needed to sell-out the dome next Sunday. It was well played and exciting. Im still a little worried about the Corners and the Front line handling the Blitz. Hopefully Ryan is mobile enough to get out of trouble. GOOOoooo FALCONS !!
By Darrell Robinson
September 8, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
Boy i knew this was coming been arguing with band wagon fans all day yesterday ..i could have ran the ball on the lions defense ..the falcons still want win more than 4 or 5 games and they play in a weak as division ….i figure matt ryan will throw over 20 interceptions should have had 1 yesterday ….to make the falcons out to be something they are not is setting yourself up for a big let down 5 weeks down the line they will still be setting with that same 1 win
By crabapplejoe
September 8, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
Marie said: And there is no doubt the Texans are going to demote that sorry clown after about 2-3 games into the season; that is if Gomer doesn’t hurt himself first. Careful, Marie, your abject racism is showing through. This is a blog about the Falcons, not the Texans…if you just want to hate on white men go to the Nation of Islam website. Go NEW FALCONS TEAM without the thug element.
By Hollywould
September 8, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
All you Vick lovers, When you go to bed, when you wake up, all day long Vick will still be in prison. You have a whole week to cry and moan but in the end your boy is still in prison. Idiots
By T.BAY.
September 8, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
LOLOLOL.We will see how hype and happy you sorry falcon fans be by mid season.yall win one game and you think its the superbowl.Just come down,everything will be back to normal real soon.normal as of sorry.I see a lot of you wishy washy fans still want to talk vick talk,give it a couple of games.yall will turn on ryan just like yall did roddy white.oh wait a minute,ryan is white ill take that back.
By T.BAY.
September 8, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
LOLOLOL.We will see how hype and happy you sorry falcon fans be by mid season.yall win one game and you think its the superbowl.Just come down,everything will be back to normal real soon.normal as of sorry.I see a lot of you wishy washy fans still want to talk vick talk,give it a couple of games.yall will turn on ryan just like yall did roddy white.oh wait a minute,ryan is white ill take that back.
By T.BAY.
September 8, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
LOLOLOL.We will see how hype and happy you sorry falcon fans be by mid season.yall win one game and you think its the superbowl.Just come down,everything will be back to normal real soon.normal as of sorry.I see a lot of you wishy washy fans still want to talk vick talk,give it a couple of games.yall will turn on ryan just like yall did roddy white.oh wait a minute,ryan is white ill take that back.
By Darrell Robinson needs hooked on phonics
September 8, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Darrell,
Put down the bourbon and crack pipe, and start saving money for some sort of education. I don’t think anybody is saying we are a Super Bowl team or even a playoff team at this point, but it sure was a good start. Keep holding a candle light vigil for your man holed up in Leavenworth. Let us real Falcons fans move on and enjoy a nice W to start the season. Loser.
By Walkerton Bears Fan
September 8, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
In reponse to your prediction: Colt’s 97-0 victory over the Bears. I guaranteed a win and by the way, the final score was Colts-13 and Bears-29
By Bamalover
September 8, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Great article! I am happy for Mr. Blank, the players and the fans. Finally, he (Mr. Blank) has hired NFL men and look at what has happened. They threw out the trash (Hall, Horn and others) and kept players with character - not who are characters. Hey they may not win more than 6 games but the are building a good foundation and one that will finally win games for a long time. Let the new era being! Roll Tide!
By Bamalover
September 8, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Great article! I am happy for Mr. Blank, the players and the fans. Finally, he (Mr. Blank) has hired NFL men and look at what has happened. They threw out the trash (Hall, Horn and others) and kept players with character - not who are characters. Hey they may not win more than 6 games but the are building a good foundation and one that will finally win games for a long time. Let the new era being! Roll Tide!
By River
September 8, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
“JUSTICE SUPPORTER”, an oxymoron in this case. If J S’s interpretation of JUSTICE ruled, he would be the first to swing!
~Thanks Falcon’s~
By T. Bay needs hooked on phonics
September 8, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
T.Bay,
Super bowl? Stop hanging out at the crack house with Darrell Robinson. Nobody is saying anything other than it was a great start to a season and a nice surprise. We are all holding our collective breaths on whether or not this is a sign of more good things to come. And by the way, we love Roddy White now that he is starting to make plays. If I recall, his worst days as a Falcon early on had a lot to do with the bullets Vick was throwing with no touch whatsoever. Stupid is as stupid does. Moron.
By Trevdee
September 8, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
A good first game and everybody did what they had to do. However, two points: a) the Falcons were playing Detroit and b) this is the just the first game. I’m aware that a number of folks have made the latter point. Still, Matt Ryan has the potential to let this team (and Atlanta) forget Mike Vick and move on to bigger and better things and at this point, that’s all we can hope for.
By northeastgeorgiabird
September 8, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this
Thanks Coach Smith
By Mike
September 8, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
I have never been a Falcons fan…. never had reason to. Today, I just might be one. Finally a not just a group of guys playing on the same field, they looked like a team. No off the field issues, no individual play. I wont support a team that plays with the thug mentality and the backstreet look.. This is a game of professionals played by professionals. The Falcons might have finaly something that they havent been in 15 years - a Team.
By Longhorn
September 8, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
Yes, it was a win against a sub-par Lions team, but just look at Michael Turner. His runs had a number of broken tackles; we can’t expect to see that against quality teams. However, many of those broken tackles were when he was already in the 2nd level of the defense. Linebackers were necessary to bring him down, and that was only after 3-5 yard gains.
Turner really reminds me of Ricky Williams when he was dominating with the Dolphins. He hits hard at the point of attack, but has the quickness to make linebackers miss.
By PMC
September 8, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
HOW ABOUT THAT OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!
wow.
How about Curtis Lofton and the well the entire defense. Corners are what 5’9 playing against 2 6’4 or 5 guys that can jump… Did Brent Grimes miss a tackle?
Yeah they won, I’m almost less excited about the win than I am the execution. 10pts in the 3rd the historically bad quarter? Matt Ryan lets the clock run down before a timeout?
What is this odd professionalism I see in the Georgia Dome? That team makes me proud to be a falcons fan.
By Sr. Atlanta
September 8, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Well done Falcons! As I BC alumni, I can tell you that Matt Ryan is an asset that Atlanta should be very proud to have! He is a top-notch guy in every respect.
Have never followed the NFL but may be now… I will!
By Old Fan
September 8, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
Thank you Falcons. That was the most fun I have had watching a Falcons game in … well, too long for me to remember. From the owner to the waterboy, THANK YOU. I saw a well coached TEAM playing smart hard nosed football. Win, Lose or Draw if you guys play like this every week I will be a proud Falcon Fan. THANK YOU!
By edward
September 8, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
It is funny and sad to see people writing that Vick is still better. Better at what, killing dogs? Only his first year was he any good and that was because he had a good coach who kept at him. When he got the contract he decided he did not need guidance…..and he failed horribly. Matt Ryan proved he is light years ahead of Vick already. Vick had to sit a year, Ryan doesn’t. It is too bad the recievers took so long to finally start catching, but thank gawd they are now! And it was not just Turner burning up yards, Norwood posted 93. If the line can continue pushing defenses, yes I see the backs both having great days. Maybe not 220 yards, but each having close to 100 a game would be pretty sweet. Forget Vick people, he is the past. I liked him till he killed dogs. Now he is just another burnout.
By Dan
September 8, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
To Michael Coulon,
You’re right that it’s only one game. But I agree with what Jeff is saying in the article, we’re seeing a culture change with this team. This is a team we can be proud of; a team that will come out and fight regardless of how bad things get. I liked Michael Vick and thought he was great the first few seasons he was in the league. And those teams that Jim Mora had were probably more talented than this one, but I never got the feeling that those teams really laid it on the line. Yesterday I felt that they did. This team looked like the 1998 Dirty Birds out there: pounding the football, making crucial plays in the passing game, defense playing aggressive when they had a lead. I’m not saying this team won’t have it’s share of bumps in the road, but don’t underestimate the way these guys are playing. They’re gonna win some games they have no business winning this season.
By MrKnowGood
September 8, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
COME ON…THIS WAS DETROIT!!! THE ONLY TEAM IN THE NFL THAT IS CONSISTENTLY WORSE THE THE FALCONS OF LAST SEASON. But having said that, I’ll be the first the admit that I was surprised by the new falcons. I am definitely a believer (in Michael Turner and Norwood, that is). The verdict is still out on Matt Ryan (we’ll see how he handles TB or NO), and our O-line (once again, we’ll see how they do against TB and NO).
But for all those complaining about Michael Vick…just remember…Vick played behind a HORRIBLE O-line (and took the blame for a HORRIBLE o-line WITHOUT complaining) most of his career and still managed to win games. That is the sign of a great QB!!!
By Alan
September 8, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
I surely wish that some of you would grow up and be true Falcon fans, put down the race card and do as the team does, they accept each other for who they are and then go out and support each other in a grown up manner (What a team) and for those of you that can’t accept sucess even if it goes slow why don’t you just leave, don’t forget to put your trash in the trash can for thats all that its good for. Great game Falcons, it was a total team effort.
By Bobby Dowell
September 8, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
What this team has lacked the past several seasons is leaders, real leaders of men. We have that now from top to bottom. What a difference. Congrats to Mr Blank and the entire Falcon staff!
By smart guy
September 8, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
i would like to interject from a non falcon fan point of view i was checking out the blog just interested in what people would say about matt ryan and the falcons and of course vick,first let me say im a 37 year old black man that knows and loves football,im here to say vick was not or will ever be a technially sound throwing QB.his biggest asset was the his legs but if you kept him in the pocket he was garbage plain and simple and this from a black man with no bias!I give him credit for taking the falcons to championship game,but for him as qb to take his game the next level he had to become a better passer and lets face it,what you see is what you was going to get with vick.the main reason the wrs didnt improve is because the QB didnt improve throwing and thats the honest too god thruth! im not saying ryan is the answer,im just saying you may actually see a better timing offense.because the qb is technally sound.and before some dummy says im biased or racist i am black by the way and donovan mcnabb who is black,is a way better qb technally than vick ever was or will be!
By pat
September 8, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
Well, it looks like we have a team…Now if we could cut the roof of that stupid dome we may have a stadium. Indoor football should be unconstitutional.
By T.BAY
September 8, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
T.bay need hooked on phonics?LOLOLOL.I told you yall are band wagon fans and the worst fan base in any sports.Read your post,you said you like roddy white now that he catches the ball and blame it on vick.that was a dumb comment.Falcon fans are so dumb they don’t even realize it takes 22 players and subs to win a game but yall give ryan the glory?pleeeeese!Let me let you know what T.BAY stands for since you can’t read between the lines punk!It stands for TAMPA BAY the same team thats gonna pluck yall feathers when yall come to bay town.And oh yea,yall coming to play a real team sunday.Bring bandaids.
By T.BAY
September 8, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
T.bay need hooked on phonics?LOLOLOL.I told you yall are band wagon fans and the worst fan base in any sports.Read your post,you said you like roddy white now that he catches the ball and blame it on vick.that was a dumb comment.Falcon fans are so dumb they don’t even realize it takes 22 players and subs to win a game but yall give ryan the glory?pleeeeese!Let me let you know what T.BAY stands for since you can’t read between the lines punk!It stands for TAMPA BAY the same team thats gonna pluck yall feathers when yall come to bay town.And oh yea,yall coming to play a real team sunday.Bring bandaids.
By T.BAY
September 8, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
T.bay need hooked on phonics?LOLOLOL.I told you yall are band wagon fans and the worst fan base in any sports.Read your post,you said you like roddy white now that he catches the ball and blame it on vick.that was a dumb comment.Falcon fans are so dumb they don’t even realize it takes 22 players and subs to win a game but yall give ryan the glory?pleeeeese!Let me let you know what T.BAY stands for since you can’t read between the lines punk!It stands for TAMPA BAY the same team thats gonna pluck yall feathers when yall come to bay town.And oh yea,yall coming to play a real team sunday.Bring bandaids.
By You got to be kidding me
September 8, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
All you naysayers, we know Turner will not run like that every game! Walter Payton didn’t run like that every game in 1985… Defenses had to respect him though and it allowed Jim McMahon to have a career year… its called a balanced offense! Coupled with a solid defense and kicking game, you can win a lot of games! Im just grateful the Falcons are playing as a team and not like PlayStation!
By folks you beat detroit not NE
September 8, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Folks you beat detroit. Don’t get to excited now.
the panthers and saints beat two better teams. enjoy the victory but realize exactly what it is.
detroit loses to teams it should beat and eats teams it has no business beating.
That team was horrible.
the only great thing to take from this game is that there were no turnovers by the falcons.
By hype.
September 8, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Jeff s**,shut up!your 60% wrong everytime you talk football.you and your dumb co-workers were bashing the falcons at first,but now you want to post a positive column.Don’t second guess yourself because of one game,if you think the birds are sorry then stick with your gut feeling.because they are sorry.Now watch you pick them to win against the bucs and they get man handled.AJC have a host of fake and don’t have a clue columnist.
By hype.
September 8, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Jeff s**,shut up!your 60% wrong everytime you talk football.you and your dumb co-workers were bashing the falcons at first,but now you want to post a positive column.Don’t second guess yourself because of one game,if you think the birds are sorry then stick with your gut feeling.because they are sorry.Now watch you pick them to win against the bucs and they get man handled.AJC have a host of fake and don’t have a clue columnist.
By IT NEVER FAILS!!!
September 8, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Leave it to people like Vick Suppoter, ahill, and ha, ha,ha to spoil the mood with their miserable, negative, and yes racially charged rhetoric. STAY OFF THE BLOGS!!!! AND LET FANS OF TEAM AND NOT A LYING CRIMINAL POST POSITIVE THINGS NOT DIVISIVE DRIVEL!!!!!!!!!
By Broderick Coleman
September 8, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
The Atlanta Falcons win opening game against the Detroit Lions 34-21…somebody quickly break out the champgane! An impressive win over a well deserving team. The Lions in 2006 came from an unimaginative 3-13 season record to a demanding 7-9 season record in 2007. While the Falcons, however, started at a 7-9 record placing them 3rd in the NFC South and in 2007 moved to a 4-12 season record. So Sundays game was a well deserved win not victory but win against the Lions. Records breaking performance by Michael Turner and rather impressive one by Matt Ryan. 16 game season…1 game down….lets not jump on the rookie nor franchise bandwagon yet. Cause from last season, they have a lot to prove!
By Hamad Meander
September 8, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
Great game for the Falcons. Hope they can keep it up. I think this is the more points than they scored almost every game last season.
Question: Where was Domonique Foxworth? Didn’t that trade go through?
By TheManMike
September 8, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
I say let the negative comments continue!
Let them talk, get it out…The more Sundays like yesterday, the less you will see of those comments.
Just dont reply, and it will fizzle out. I would still put down money saying that 98% of those comments are kids trying to find a laugh, throwing out words they cant fully understand. They do it continually because they KNOW they will get a rise out of many, and will sit back and just laugh. Beleive it. Dont play the games of the little ones. This team will speak for itself, and they started that new conversation yesterday.
SEE YOU AT THE DOME!
GO BIRDS!
By Kelley
September 8, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
In my opinion, the biggest difference on this team is simple: Leadership. Finally, a coach and GM who seem to have a handle on this team. The new GM won me over when he got rid of loud mouth DHall. I hope that the Falcons will stay clear of personalities like DHall in the future. This organization has been screaming for leadership for a very long team, thank goodness, it appears this team has finally gotten it. Am I betting they will go to the SuperBowl? No, but my goodness, it sure was nice to watch yesterday, even if you know they won’t win every game.
By bigeasy830
September 8, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
One game does not make a season or a career. The Falcons will still win 4 or less games this year. This game did not prove the Falcons are good it only showed how bad Detroit is. That team had a melt down in the first quarter. That was the worst display of coaching and having a team prepared to play that I have ever seen. But, on a positive not, great job by the Falcons coaching staff to prepare this team. Coach Smith, Mularkey and Van Gorder did a greeat job. Now lets see all of you stay so enthusiastic through the 0 and 14 run this team is about to endure. The only other game this team will win is against ST. Louis at the end of the season. MV7 will be back in 09 as a Falcon believe it.
By smart guy
September 8, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
some people just need to trully find their brains because why on earth would you want to see another person hanging from a jail cell? check out column time 2:48 if you think im joking. thats just crazy,wow keep this on football folks some people are taking things a little to far!let me say this,then i will keep this my thoughts sports in nature. if i was 911 and a fellow american needed my help to save his or life whether he was white or black or whatever i would try my best to save that person because he’s human just like me.and why do say this? because we need to get of this race stuf and talk about the FALCONS! i dont give a f*** if the quarterback was a space alien! i he can lead my team to the superbowl thats my quarterback!
By ha ha ha
September 8, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
Funny how someone says my post is racially motivated yet I did not bring up race once. The reading comprehension on this blog is around first grade level. I said Ryan looked good. I didnt know that saying that meant I was bringing up the race topic. Hmm thats new. At the end of the day this team beat a terrible Lions team. Im glad we won but can we at least wait until we face some tough competition. To the so called black guy, put down the bottle. When Vick was given time in the pocket he made the passes. Give most qbs time in the pocket and they will produce. What I like about this front office is for once since I have been a falcons fan they addressed the o line. Look at the games against the Steelers and Bengals. Look at the protection Vick had. He had some of his best passing games when he had time to set his feet so that garbage claim you are making is pretty much garbage in its own right. If this o line blocks like this for the rest of the year Ryan should be ok only if he does not turn the ball over a lot. He locks down on a reciever way too much. A team with a real defense will have a field day against him. He has to learn to look a reciever off.
By Soryu
September 8, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
Sure Les, no one paid attention to the Falcons until Vic came. I guess people simply ignored the Falcons when they went to the Super Bowl then?
And Ryan made passes yesterday that Vic could never have made even if he and the wideout were the only two on the field.
By Soryu
September 8, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Ahill (does that stand for ant hill?)
Vick is a better pure athlete than Ryan, he can run better than Ryan, but NFL QBs aren’t paid to run the ball, they are paid to distribute the ball to the offense and that is something Vick could never do. Vick was also a poor passer, sure he could throw the ball down field, but so can a chimp. The trick is throwing the ball to an open receiver and often Vick couldn’t hit the inside of a barn with the ball. He had a weak arm, poor accuracy, couldn’t read defenses—in short not a NFL caliber QB.
Too early to tell from one game, but Ryan does look like a quality NFL QB.
By Broderick Coleman
September 8, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
It’s just simply amazing how when the Falcons did have people such as Michael Vick, or DeAngelo Hall, Justin Griffin, Ike Reese, Patrick Kerney, and Warrick Dunn everbody praised the Falcons. Everyone swormed to the Dome just to watch players like such play. Players like such made the Falcons what they were with coaches like Jim Mora, Jr. and even Dan Reeves. The Falcons lost their spirit last season, the lost their state of mind, the lost self of being and so as one little incident arrives…the people that everyone was praising now suddenly don’t mean anything. Michael Vick dog fighting, yeah all in all it was a not thought through move but he knows and accepts that now why cant everyone else? Matt Ryan, beautiful display as a rookie, but do not start praising him like Michael Vick then once he starts losing you jump off the bandwagon and he becomes another non-thought about 3rd stream QB.
By Broderick Coleman
September 8, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
It’s just simply amazing how when the Falcons did have people such as Michael Vick, or DeAngelo Hall, Justin Griffin, Ike Reese, Patrick Kerney, and Warrick Dunn everbody praised the Falcons. Everyone swormed to the Dome just to watch players like such play. Players like such made the Falcons what they were with coaches like Jim Mora, Jr. and even Dan Reeves. The Falcons lost their spirit last season, the lost their state of mind, the lost self of being and so as one little incident arrives…the people that everyone was praising now suddenly don’t mean anything. Michael Vick dog fighting, yeah all in all it was a not thought through move but he knows and accepts that now why cant everyone else? Matt Ryan, beautiful display as a rookie, but do not start praising him like Michael Vick then once he starts losing you jump off the bandwagon and he becomes another non-thought about 3rd stream QB.
By smart guy
September 8, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
look he haw or whatever you call yourself answer this what was vick completion percentage for his career? garbage!exactly what i thought.lets not talk about offensive lines because pittsburgh offensive line was horrible but big ben still completed over 60% of his passes which is what a quality nfl starter should also name one wr besides te agle crumpler who was basically a safety valve reciever anyone respected or the falcons produced during his term as qb?think about it hard you still want find one.im not hating just stating the obviuos he was or will never be a great or even good throwing gb. and look mcnabb who does he to throw too?no big names but he stills a makes better throws consitantly throws for 300 yards or better and never had what i would cal a great o line.
By The Truth
September 8, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
I becamE a fan of Matt Ryan after seeing him in several games in his Junior and moreso his Senior Year at BC. I am happy that he is playing here and I anticipate several great years from him. I liked MV playmaking ability, but his inaccuracy in passing could not always be offset by his running, as evidenced when we played Tampa Bay. He is no longer the QB here so I have moved on and I hope more of you will. I am a black person so this has nothing to do with race. Tom Dimitroff and Mike Smith have put together a very good staff and are in the first year of building something special here.This is just one win and we are not going to get carried away, but it was exciting to see the effort by the entire team. I have the team winning 4- 6 games, but if we continue to run the ball well may surpass that number. However I understand that we are building for the long term, and know that this is just the first year and so the win total will not cause me to waiver in my support of this team. I would love to see the DE from Montana get some time from JAnderson, but in saying this I have every confidence in this coaching staff and they may see more in JAnderson than we as fans see. Grimes was tenacious and played with confidence despite his size, I am 5’10” and there is no way he is 5’10”. Chris Houston will need to improve his play if he is going to hold on to his starting position. The oline was just Awesome so was Michael Turner and Jerious. To me Abe was the man, his constant pressure helped the secondary, and we hope he will stay healthy. When healthy Abe is a top three pass rusher in the league,I know plenty folks may not agree.
By smart guy
September 8, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
im just going to say this to ha ha,i rspect your football knowledge and all but what you failed to realize is this the main reason mike vick got those big passing is because they feared his running!i will bet you this,no defensive coordinator gameplanned for vicks passing abillities thats for sure.so basically you had teams mostly scared of vicks feet more than his arm which left for more openings in the passing game am i right? so theirs no way if you want call yourself a great or even good passer should you complete anything less than 60 percent passing when you have the element of surprise because nobody feared the mighty falcons passing attack thats for sure!
By smart guy
September 8, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
im just going to say this to ha ha,i rspect your football knowledge and all but what you failed to realize is this the main reason mike vick got those big passing is because they feared his running!i will bet you this,no defensive coordinator gameplanned for vicks passing abillities thats for sure.so basically you had teams mostly scared of vicks feet more than his arm which left for more openings in the passing game am i right? so theirs no way if you want call yourself a great or even good passer should you complete anything less than 60 percent passing when you have the element of surprise because nobody feared the mighty falcons passing attack thats for sure!
By The Truth
September 8, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Jason Elam kicking a 50 yard field goal seem to have been lost,what with the performance of Michael Turner and Matt Ryan. But can anyone remember us making a field goal over 45 yds last year. Despite the turmoil last year, if we had a kicker as efficient as Elam we could have won three more games. He is another reason we could surprise some people this year.
By courtney
September 8, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Justice Supporter
Your comments are very disturbing. Why would anyone wish that a man should hang from a tree and the fact that you sound like you would enjoy it is scary. I hope that you find peace in your heart to forgive when people make mistakes. Vick did wrong and he has been punished but I would never wish harm on him. I have seen more sympathy for child molesters. I have never seen one blog wishing drunk drivers, rapists, or child molesters making comments about hanging them. Your comments are really sickening.
By southern boy
September 8, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
I’ll be glad when Mike Vick is in football again ,that’s when the excitement starts all over again .Thats when I’ll watch pro football again. Right now Go bulldogssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss!
By Barry
September 8, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Hey Y’all:
“ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!” “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!” “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” That is how the Falcons played. They played with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” Everyone on the team contributed. Even the coaches. This game was beautul to watch. Nasty, aggressive, creative team football. They left it all on the field as did the fans left in the stands at the Dome and in the livingrooms at home watching T.V. Therefore ,I say, one game at a time people. One game at a time with us all playing as “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” with the FALCONS. THE TEAM AND THE COMMUNITY ENJOYING EACH GAM AS “ONEHEARTBEAT!!!” Believe this is going to be an enjoyable season watchin this team play each game with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!” That should be our motto for this year and years to come “ONE HEARTBEAT”. Our time as a football community has come. So let’s get on board with the FALCONS as “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!” We are one. We owe everyone in the league a butt kicking considering the 2 years the team and our sports community has been through with the Falcons. OUT TIME HAS COME FOR PAYBACK!!. Let’s do it as “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”
SSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN!!!!!! TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"ONE HEARTBEAT BABY"Ringold
By Barry
September 8, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
Hey Y’all:
“ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!” “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!” “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” That is how the Falcons played. They played with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” Everyone on the team contributed. Even the coaches. This game was beautul to watch. Nasty, aggressive, creative team football. They left it all on the field as did the fans left in the stands at the Dome and in the livingrooms at home watching T.V. Therefore ,I say, one game at a time people. One game at a time with us all playing as “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” with the FALCONS. THE TEAM AND THE COMMUNITY ENJOYING EACH GAM AS “ONEHEARTBEAT!!!” Believe this is going to be an enjoyable season watchin this team play each game with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!” That should be our motto for this year and years to come “ONE HEARTBEAT”. Our time as a football community has come. So let’s get on board with the FALCONS as “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!” We are one. We owe everyone in the league a butt kicking considering the 2 years the team and our sports community has been through with the Falcons. OUT TIME HAS COME FOR PAYBACK!!. Let’s do it as “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”
SSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN!!!!!! TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"ONE HEARTBEAT!!!"Ringold
By Longhorn
September 8, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
@The Truth: Right on. I was thinking about that yesterday and thought to myself, “I guess Morton can finally retire for real.”
Elam is also good considering he played his whole career in an outdoor stadium. Mile-High gave him good distance, but accuracy was all him.
By Mr. Inquisitive
September 8, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Why were none of the Vick Supporters upset about #7 hanging and electrocuting dogs from trees to execute them?
When I was young, I was taught the punishments should fit the crimes.
By T'ville Dawg
September 8, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
While not overly impressed with Ryan, I can be won over and it seems that you guys can finally stop talking about the guy that’s gone. You notice I didn’t say his name. We’ll know a lot more after this week, don’t think they’ll have a lot of problems with the Bucs as the Aints exposed their weaknesses pretty well.
By T'ville Dawg
September 8, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
While not overly impressed with Ryan, I can be won over and it seems that you guys can finally stop talking about the guy that’s gone. You notice I didn’t say his name. We’ll know a lot more after this week, don’t think they’ll have a lot of problems with the Bucs as the Aints exposed their weaknesses pretty well.
By T'ville Dawg
September 8, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
While not overly impressed with Ryan, I can be won over and it seems that you guys can finally stop talking about the guy that’s gone. You notice I didn’t say his name. We’ll know a lot more after this week, don’t think they’ll have a lot of problems with the Bucs as the Aints exposed their weaknesses pretty well.
By monty
September 8, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
A very, very positive sign of things to come, hopefully. It is good to be able to run between the tackles again! And we didn’t have to have the QB get most of the rushing yards on broken pass plays! Hats off to this new team and new management. It appears the nightmare that would never end is finally over! Falcons in “10.”
By ChargerFan
September 8, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
I’m a somewhat bummed Bolts fan. I’m happy for Turner but sad we couldn’t afford to keep him (just like Brees going to New Orleans). SD’s loss is ATL’s gain — Michael Turner is the real deal. Turner is a better mudder in late-season sloppy games than LT, who needs a firm field for cutting. Turner will face 8-man fronts all season, so don’t get discouraged with occasional 20-carry, 50 yard games, they will happen. But by year-end, Turner will make you proud to be a Falcons fan.
By Stephen
September 8, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
Go Falcons!!!!
It was a great TEAM win against Detroit.
Can we just please have a discussion about the CURRENT Falcons Team without mentioning Michael Vick?
He is no longer on the field, so can we just please move on, leave out all the racial divisive comments and just talk about Falcons’ football. Some of you appear to forget that there are many more African-Americans on the team busting their butts and making a significantly positive impact on and off the field for the team and for the City of Atlanta.
GO FALCONS!!!!
By ha ha ha
September 8, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
smart guy you are reacing. David Carr led the league in completion percentage a few years back if im no mistaken and his team was horrible. Yea its nice to have a high completion percentage but what good does it do if your team is not winnning. I know Vick never had a great completion percentage I was making the point that he showed that if he had time to set his feet he could pass the ball effectively. If you really think the Steelers line was horrible a few years back then I have some beach front property in Idaho I want to sell you. The Steelers line has been bad the last two years but previous to that they had a great o line. The reason Vick had those passing games had nothing to do with the defensive game planning. If anything defenses played to force him to pass. The reason he looked good is because the o line actually did their job which was to protect the qb. You say Vick was garbage but then turn around and act as if Ryan is some future hall of famer. Come on dude it was one game.
By gabluesdude
September 8, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
All the vick lovers can suck it.
By gabluesdude
September 8, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
News flash…….THE VICK ERA IS OVER RETARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Shawn Merriman
September 8, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
Give us Michael Turner back.
By Be careful!!!
September 8, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Nice win Falcons!!! M. Turner was off the chain!! J Rock did his thing. Abe really did his thing. Corners were solid against top notch receivers. I’m still not sold on Matt Ryan although he had a solid performance. His performance was conservative, but to me that means any QB could have followed the game plan. Redman, DJ, Harrington, etc. I liked the the team as a whole and will continue to support the Falcons in the future. Falcons Fan since 1978.
By Jalen
September 9, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
I love this offense. We are running plays that I honestly haven’t seen them run in 7 or 8 years.
Good job by everybody.
Now lets get more tickets sold the rest of the year so we can have guaranteed sellouts.
I’m on board!
By Linkin Pro
September 9, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
I live in NC, so unfortunately had to put up with the saints/Bucs game, but intensely watched the ticker to see scoring updates… That was the first time in awhile that everything seemed to be going our way. Turner, Norwood were electric with the powerful blocking of the o-line was quite refreshing. Ryan managed the game well from the start. The Underrated Defense came to play, which i had no doubts about that. Im looking forward to the Bucs game which will be the early test to see where the guys are as a team. If we can steal one on the road, i think we have a legitimate shot of winning or possibly squeezing into playoffs baby!!!
By Boo Boo
September 9, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Jeff, you are right that the path seems to be heading the right way; but it will only go the right way if Blank stops tinkering with his toy. The Falcons were headed the right way with Dan Reeves. Injuries to key personnel during his reign simply proved how hard it is to win in the NFL with backups and waiver pickups.
Because of Blank firing Reeves, the Falcons went the wrong way. Because of Blank hiring Jim Mora, Jr., the Falcons went the wrong way. Because of Blank firing Mora, Jr., the Falcons went the wrong way. Because of Blank hiring Bobby Petrino, the Falcons went the wrong way. So, after Reeves led the Falcons to 14-2 and 9-6-1 records, and left in place Mora’s team (a healthy Vick) that went 11-5, the team has slipped to 8-8, 7-9, 4-12.
How about this conspiracy theory: Blank’s tinkering completely made Mora, Jr. give up trying to coach the way he wanted to coach. Blank’s love of MV7 made Mora, Jr. just a puppet on a string. Why else do you think Jim Mora, Sr. says, “Mike Vick is a coach killer”? Because Mora, Jr. was dead as a coach; and Blank killed him because of Vick.
Well, one member of the Mora family is who called authorities and turned in Mike Vick as a dog killer. Mora, Jr. probably went to a dog fight or two with Vick, Meangelo, Algernon and others. It was their secret as buds. When Blank killed Mora over Vick, Mora killed Vick to get even with Blank. That’s the way the world turns, ain’t it?
Hopefully, now that Blank has learned his lesson, he will stay off the sidelines and let the coach coach and the GM GM. Otherwise, we could see Mike Smith fired because he does not play his new favorite merchandizing piece.
By TAMPA BAY
September 9, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
REALITY CHECK - So you beat Detroit, next Disney Land? Listen up you “low self-esteem” losers. First off, Mark Bradley fits you losers well. Enjoy that “college level” victory, now it’s time to face a “real” defense. You might as well put Ryan on the “IRL” right now - thats Injured Reserve List for you fair weathered fans, which means 80 percent of you inbreds.
We beat you with Mike Vick, so just imagine the whooping you gonna get with “Soon to see stretcher” Ryan. We needed an easy win and you are just what the doctor ordered.
Welcome to REALITY! We are going to stack the line with 9 in the box all night, daring that tinkerbell Ryan to pass on us. Oh yeah, throw in a bunch of blitz plays, you will be right back to 1967.
By dirtiestbird2
September 11, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
I love reading this stuff, about Vick that is. There’s a lot of people talking bad about the most exciting player to hit the league EVER still. I wonder when the next full house will be at the Dome. Blank will hate the contract Ryan has when wishes he has Vick, that is if he releases him. They haven’t moved on yet. Without Vick the falcons will never be a real threat to contend. I love the falcons, and have for a long time, along with the Hawks and Braves. It’s easy to see that there’s a lot of people that would hate for a non-conventional QB to dominate. Which is what Vick did. If teams are game planning for you, your dominant. On Vick’s off field issues, if we were all judged by the one that really matters hell would running over. I’m closing with this,…. I am a true fan, but I know it will be a long time if any before I’ll witness the consistent winning and excitement I saw when Vick was my QB. Oh and yours too if you were a fan.
By dirtiestbird2
September 11, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this
I love reading this stuff, about Vick that is. There’s a lot of people talking bad about the most exciting player to hit the league EVER still. I wonder when the next full house will be at the Dome. Blank will hate the contract Ryan has when wishes he has Vick, that is if he releases him. They haven’t moved on yet. Without Vick the falcons will never be a real threat to contend. I love the falcons, and have for a long time, along with the Hawks and Braves. It’s easy to see that there’s a lot of people that would hate for a non-conventional QB to dominate. Which is what Vick did. If teams are game planning for you, your dominant. On Vick’s off field issues, if we were all judged by the one that really matters hell would running over. I’m closing with this,…. I am a true fan, but I know it will be a long time if any before I’ll witness the consistent winning and excitement I saw when Vick was my QB. Oh and yours too if you were a fan.
By bigeasy830
September 11, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
By Boo Boo, Damn talk about conspiracy theories. Who hot JFK and where is Hoffa buried. HAHAHAHA. I think you are taking it to far man. I agree with you Blank should not have fired Reeves and Blank interfers with the coaches and the GM to much. I think Blank is a meddler that has srewed up the team. But, Vick did it to himself, plain and simple.
By #1 FAN
September 11, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Why do some of you idiots have to say such ignorant things, Mike Vick is gone, let it go, The Dome was sold out for a reason, the guy did some amazing things on the field and you can’t deny that. Let’s support the 2008 Falcons and stop dwelling on the past, we finally have a real Front office and Coaching staff, and their is no where to go but up, and I smell Playoffs looking at our schedule, peace.
By Shawn dodson
September 11, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
justice supporter,you are the biggest coward in the world.You make bold comments,but you are afraid to use your real name.How can you call yourself justice supporter when you are a supporter of HATE!Would you say the same about Brett Fave if he did the same as Vick?How you going to feel when Obama become President?I ask because it’s plain and clear that you are a RACIEST!May God have mercy on your soul,because i don’t.
By GloriaVick
September 12, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
I am so glad that Mike Vick and D-Hall no longer play for the Falcons. They are both scumbags and punks who believe they are ABOVE the law. Of course, Vick got caught and was shoved into prison. D-Hall may get caught for something illegal since he is a loud mouth thug who talks a much better game than he plays. D-Hall may soon be a cell mate to Vick if Hall doesnt watch his step!
By RalphJackson
September 12, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
1 Fan: Why do you keep fantasizing about Mike Vick? Vick is yesterdays news and was nothing more than a bag of corruption. From the Ron Mexico debacle, to the Airport AirTran Waterbottle fiasco, to the fingerflipping peaceout tirade, to the the illegal dogfighting ring conviction, to the imaginary prison football he claims to be playing which does not exist; truth be told you cant trust one thing that ever comes from Mike Vick without it being filled with profanities and CORRUPTION. Forget about Vick because Im totally sure he has forgotten about you.By garwoodpr
September 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Will the owner of game-day jersey that Michael Turner wore when playing for NIU (Northern Illinois) please contact CollegeJersey.com - - Thank you.
By MontyPython
September 17, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Some fans think conVick will be released by the Falcons soon. As an earlier blogger pointed out, Vick is one of the best athletes, if not the best athlete the NFL has ever had. Upon his return to the league, should he be released he will quickly be picked up by probably the silver and black or the Cowboys since they both are known to accept thugs and bandits of the NFL. Jerry Jones had no problem giving Pacman Jones, maybe a relative, another chance to play in the league although Pacman has been arrested so many times in his brief career. The Raiders have been known to recycle thugs and crooks as long as owner Al Davis is running things down there in Raider Nation. Dont be surprised is Vick resurfaces in an Oakland uniform. The league would be better off having Vick employed rather than having him on the scrap heap where his talents are wasting away.