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Home > Jeff Schultz > Archives > 2008 > November > 23 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USConvincing performance from Falcons
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This season already had seen its share of big wins.
The opener against Detroit, for the mere cleansing factor. The consecutive wins against Green Bay and Chicago, for the statement about hanging with playoff contenders. The shutout at Oakland, if no other reason than to prove they could smack down a hysterically dysfunctional team without laughing and hyperventilating.
This was different. Why? Because it’s almost December and the Falcons are still here. Because the Carolina Panthers are probably the second best team in the NFC, behind only the team that won the last Super Bowl. Because it’s 11 games into the season, and now you’re seeing things that would cause even a genie granting three wishes to owner Arthur Blank to balk and respond, “You’re kidding, right?”
Harry Douglas: secret weapon. Michael Turner: four touchdowns. Mike Smith: passing up an easy field goal with a three-point lead, going for it on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line — and succeeding.
“It’s starting to get scary,” Lawyer Milloy said.
Yeah, that about sums it up. The Falcons dumped the Panthers, 45-28, Sunday. At this point, what else would you expect?
Six possessions into the game, the Falcons had a 17-0 lead and the Panthers didn’t have a first down. When Carolina closed to 17-13 in the third quarter, quarterback Matt Ryan engineered a 12-play, 80-yard touchdown drive, smoothly operating out of a no-huddle offense.
Carolina cornerback Chris Gamble later said, “I can’t believe he’s a rookie,” and at this point we must assume he’s the last one who hadn’t said it.
This was the Falcons’ chance to go south. They were coming off a bad home loss to Denver, playing a team that drilled them, 24-9, in late September. They were facing the prospects of dropping to 6-5 overall and 1-3 in the division and 4-4 in the conference — numbers that doom playoff hopes.
A team wins a game like this, over an opponent like this, at a time like this — it gets everybody’s attention. If this were college football, the Falcons would be leapfrogging teams in the BCS.
“We knew there were playoff implications riding on this game,” center Todd McClure said. “Nobody really wanted to say that in the locker room. But we knew it. To come out and win this game in the division is huge.”
Ryan alone makes Thomas Dimitroff’s first draft a success. Douglas just made it better. The third-round pick out Jonesboro by way of Louisville, scored the Falcons’ first touchdown on a 7-yard reverse, set up the second touchdown with a 27-yard punt return, had a 69-yard reception to set up a touchdown and returned another punt 67 yards for a score and caught four passes covering 92 yards.
Next week, he splits the atom.
But it was Mike Smith, the first-year coach, who owned this game’s biggest moment. The Falcons led, 24-21. Douglas’s 69-yard catch moved the offense to the Carolina six. Three plays later it was fourth down from the one with 7:16 left. An easy field goal would’ve forced the Panthers to score a touchdown to win. Smith didn’t hesitate: he kept the offense on the field. Following a time out, Turner got the ball and blew through a hole over left tackle into the end zone.
“I like it,” Dimitroff said later of the fourth-down decision, smiling. “I like the call better than the toss in Philly.”
The reference was to Ryan’s decision in Philadelphia from the one-yard line to attempt a pass on a fade route to Roddy White. The pass was under thrown and intercepted, and the Falcons lost.
Sunday’s decision to go for the touchdown on fourth down — and to run — was more closely aligned with Smith’s personality. He wants a physical team, an aggressive team.
“It’s a message we’ve wanted to send from the very beginning,” he said.
Milloy watched from the sideline as Turner scored the touchdown, then walked up to Smith.
“After the play, I went over to him and said, ‘Way to let your bleep hang’ — you know?” Milloy said, employing a veteran’s self edit. “We’re a reflection of him.”
Eleven games later, they’re still here, and they’re getting better. Scary.
Permalink | Comments (87) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons/NFL
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By Rimfire
November 23, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
If this is “scary”, then I like it! What a great Pheonix revival… It sure is fun to be able to cheer the home team! OH HELL YEAH!
By Gary
November 23, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
S.I. predicted 2 and 14. I am still not a fan of Roddy White. He dropped the winner against Denver and he has no concentration some of the time. But Matt Ryan is spectacular and I can not believe he plays this well as a ” rookie”. Michael Turner is really a bull. If Douglas keeps playing like he did today, this season could see us in the playoff’s. If not, a really bright future shines for the Falcons after the unforgiveable Michael Vick crimes that so hurt our team and city. GO FALCONS.
By SirReal
November 23, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
MAN, this was a GREAT win for the Birds!!! Could we REALLY be in playoff contention right about now?? WOW!!! I like what we did today mainly in the first and last quarters. I hope we come out like this for this last five games!!! LET”S GO BIRDS!!!!
By brAves Sucios
November 23, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
I’m loving this season, but what will be even better is NEXT season continuing to build on our success while getting completely out from under Vick and the past as we watch him weigh down some OTHER hapless suckers (I’m laying odds on Oakland) and become the trivia question he was born to be. Maybe by next season’s playoffs we’ll only see his name pop up on “Dancing With The Stars” ads…
By Exodus Mentality
November 23, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
Scary. Norwood was invisible today. Abraham was hurt. They have guys on the bench (L. Robinson, S Nichols) or hurt (S. Baker) that could make them even more formidable. This team has nothing but upside. I’m trying to figure out how any of the last five teams they face can beat them if they come out to play, and they come to play every week.
11-5, Playoff Bound. I’m A Believer.
By RTW
November 23, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
Exodus Mentality. I’m with you! Fun to be a fan.
By Phillip
November 23, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
Falcons are for REAL….the fact that Chris Gamble cannot believe Matt Ryan is a rookie? Priceless….
Still a long way to go to make the playoffs but today was huge. A victory today meant Falcons were serious about THIS YEAR. A loss would just have meant “wait until next year”. Yes, Thomas Dimitroff is “the architect” and I fully expect the Falcons to win a superbowl in the next four years - how you like them apples? :)
By michaelgee
November 23, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
I continue to pinch myself and I have not awakened yet. It must be REAL!
Matt handles that no huddle as well as any pro QB I’ve ever seen.
There are few words to describe what this kid is doing as a rookie, the years to come will be sweeter? Somebody, quick, wake me up if this isn’t real.
By Dennis Borders
November 23, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
This team has me blown away this year. Where it comes down to is this: the coaches and front office. We finally have coaches that knows fundmentals and knows how to coach veterans an young players to bring them together. Not, just coaching them to be good players but to coach them to be great players on the field and off the field. We have guy (GM) that knows talent and knows where to find it. and owner willing to spend the money get them. Thou, this season is not over. I can’t wait to see who we get next year
By jcdocpc
November 23, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
I still got a hangover from the game, And I only had ONE BEER! I promise…
By easy31
November 24, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
Gary….your an idiot for not liking Roddy White, big time big play wide reciever..ya he dropped the game winner, didnt really have a great chance to catch, they wouldnt have been in that situation if Ryan wouldnt have been picked leading to the Broncos go ahead TD…hes 2nd in the NFL in recieving yards..i think he can concentrate just fine…love to see your a* out there catching that TD that he dropped last week
By Boo Boo
November 24, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this
I was watching the OT on Fox after all the day games were over. They had a locker room clip of Brad Childress telling his team, “Today we learned how to step on the neck of an opponent.” Mike Smith can make the same claim.
When the score got to be 24 - 21, with eight minutes to play, when the Falcons were fourth and goal at the one, with a little over seven minutes to play, they decided it was time to step on the neck of some Panthers. Enough clawing it by the tail, then let it loose, then claw it by the tail again. That cat and mouse game ended up with a loss last week against the Broncos. Today the Falcons learned how sweet it feels when they stepped on that Panther neck. You could hear it snap, loud and clear.
Four touchdowns in the fourth quarter against one of the league’s best defenses is awesome. Jake Del-Hommey found the same fear that Drew Brees found in the GA Dome. That made the passing numbers inflate against the D again, which sucks. Giving up 28 points sucks too, just like giving up a last second TD to the Saints sucked, because both teams were afraid they would be seen as totally thumped by the Birds. No matter what the final score was, The Falcons have layed a whupping on two division foes in November. Gotta love it.
One more step in the process. Next, they learn how to step on a neck in the third quarter.
By Brendan
November 24, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
Falcons are a win and a tie from a winning season. And if they get it, could another winning season be had next year, to finally get “back-to-back” winning seasons for the Falcons?
I’ll admit it. I had the Falcons are 6-10, and thought I was being rather generous. At 7-4, the worst that can happen is 7-9. And wouldn’t we all have taken that, back in August?
By bh
November 24, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this
I have never really been a Falcons fan, but I have to admit it is exctiing to watch them this year. I think coach Mike Smith is doing such a good job of providing steady and stable leadership. Good job coach, keep it up.
By Aaron
November 24, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this
I would have taken 7-9, but not at this point. Anything less than 10-6 at this point is disappointing the way were playing.
By Falcons fan 4 life
November 24, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this
Matt Ryan is a Godsend to the city of atlanta! Dimtroff and Smith are pretty close to it too. I never in a million years wouldve dreamed 7-4 at this point, i had us pegged at 5-11 in august. It has been one H*ll of a year! We gotta bring da dirty bird endzone dances back! Im smelling 11-5 or 10-6 at the end of the year! GO FALCONS!!
By mykhalc
November 24, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
send TD, SMITH, and the staff to DC to turn this damn economy around!!! they got the touch!!!
By hitwriter
November 24, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
No offense Falcons fan 4 life (or to the ‘98 Falcons) but the Dirty Bird is old news… This team and the coming seasons should have their own identity. Not some old school end zone dance. And I’ve been a fan since 66. This is way better than anything we’ve seen in a long while. No gimmicks needed.
By Scottbravesfan
November 24, 2008 2:49 AM | Link to this
How about Turner with 4 touchdowns? Tied a franchise record. And he also has 13 rushing TDs on the season which is also tied with a franchise record.
Anyone think Turner can get to 20 TDs this season?
By The Grinch
November 24, 2008 6:47 AM | Link to this
Good, solid win. Team effort. Nice to see Snelling out there a little too. You know, I wonder if Douglas doing so well on punt returns hurts Thomas Brown’s chances of making the roster next year…but that’s a good problem to have (anyone missing Jennings yet?). I was thinking positive at 6-10 in the offseason, and looking at the rest of the sked now I see at least 10-6 if there are no more injuries. The only thing that worries me with a season like this is everyone’s gonna be trying to lure away our coaching staff now; hope Blank’s prepared to keep them together. Of course at this point given our previous staffs, he’ll probably give them whatever they want.
By falcon
November 24, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this
Great win! We had a blast at the Dome yesterday. The O-Line gets a shout out from me, a big improvement from last week. Congrats to the player of the game, Harry Douglas. On to San Diego!
One side note to Mike Smith……Please take Finneran away from punt return duty. He is too valuable as a 3rd down receiver to risk injury while fielding punts. He took a wicked shot from the side yesterday, and I was amazed that he shook it off like he did. I’d also like to see Hartsock and Peelle catch a pass every now and then. Good job coach!
By Reggie
November 24, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
GOOD GAME!!!! but somebody tell me why chauncey davis is still a backup….he should be opposite #55
By Mike Smith can COACH!
November 24, 2008 7:16 AM | Link to this
COACH MIKE SMITH is a winner with class. This youthful bunch gets better every week.-A realTEAM with every player taking part.-NFL COACH OF THE YEAR!
By theedge
November 24, 2008 7:30 AM | Link to this
The fumble Roddy had seemed to derail the team for a period of time. I am glad they shook off the funk and got back on track.
Great call at the goaline on 4th down because a with a field goal a TD could still beat you.
The thing I do not like is in these games where the Falcons jump out to an early lead they tend to throttle back and be a little more conservative. It has bitten them already! Keep the pedal to the metal. Go Falcons
By North FLA Falcon
November 24, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
It says something about a team when the offense, defense, and special teams all produce when needed. Plus the great coaching call on 4th and goal. Great all around effort. The O-line is scary huge and that is without Sam Baker. Receivers looked great. There is something up with Roddy’s concentration, he dropped a sure 1st down pass early in the game. Finneran had a great game too but I agree with the earlier posting about him not receiving punts anymore … someone else should do it. I don’t think it was so much that we turned conservative in the 2nd and early 3rd quarters…but that the Panthers stiffened. Still, we were able to respond. I loved how the defense just crushed Carolina on a few possessions. We need to beat the Bucs and Saints … keep winning and we’ll be in great shape. GO BIRDS!!!
By B.M. Parks
November 24, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this
Wow, how many teams can say that our top six draft picks are making plays on the field? Credit starts with Mr. Blank for being the best owner in the league. He hired the right coach and the right GM. Last year was a disaster, this year, we are fresh out of room on the bandwagon.
By leland
November 24, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
Jesus is on our side.
By Space Mountain
November 24, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
Carpe Diem Baby. Seize the Day. Job well done to the whole organization.
By Damage Inc.
November 24, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
Who knew the Georgia Dome had a “wood shed” out back. I want to personally hold Chuckie’s neck when they woop the Bucs.
By Bo
November 24, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
Leland, Jesus is always on our side in Good or bad times. That’s the greatest!!!! Thank you for saying it and living it.
By fansince66
November 24, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
I assume you still want Jennings fielding punts. For goodness sakes, Coach wants someone to field a punt without fumbling and who on the team has better hands? And why when someone criticizes a black player someone comes on with a bad attitude to defend him. I like Roddy and his game has come a long way this year, but fact is, he does need to concentrate more. The great ones step up and make the catch against Denver. (See Owens, Moss, Steve Smith)
By Tron5000
November 24, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
So you decided to stick with sports in this column, eh Jeff? That may prove to be a wise choice if you intend to continue your career as a SPORTS writer. At least when you opine about sports, you seem to know what you’re talking about. What happened? Nobody in the locker room wanted to discuss Prop 8 or cabinet nominations?
By Zoomie
November 24, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
While watching Sunday Night Football with my son last night, John Madden made a comment about Peyton Manning being ” … the best quarterback in football.” My son asked me if I thought it was true. I told him yes, but within three years Matt Ryan will be known as the best quarterback in football. Believe it!
By Burning Red
November 24, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
This was Great!! I’m so glad the Birds are playing with such fire, they also are playing so great for being such a young team keep it up guys we’ll support you to the end. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By jsaye
November 24, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Man I have to tell all of you guys I live in Charlotte but have been an ATL fan from the beginning and Charlotte is waking up with one big headache today having drowned in there sorrows last night. I watch every game on NFL Sunday Ticket and I am just amazed at how this team sticks together and plays as a team. What a pick in Ryan and what a contribution this whole team is making in turning this thing around. We should all be proud to be falcons fans and give much thanks on thursday for the good fortune that is following doing things the right way. Go Birds 10-6 is within our reach.
By JD of ATL
November 24, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
It’s great to see intelligence coupled with heart and intensity…the Panthers game reminded me a little of a flick called “The Replacements”…which certainly relates to the no name offensive line…great job guys! To Falcons Fan for Life…we don’t need dirty bird dancing in the end zone or any of that crap. The Falcons need only to make their statements on the field…to be a syncronized machine in all facets of the game. The dancing only comes after the game is over…that is the differene we needed here in ATL, and that at long last appears the case. Keep it alive Falcons…you have an entire state behind you! JD of Covington
By REDNECKWATCH 2008
November 24, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
* HEY fansince66”* You said “And why when someone criticizes a black player someone comes on with a bad attitude to defend him.”
Why is it that when ANYONE defends a player who happens to be Black, some REDNECK assumes that it is BECAUSE he is Black????
By Jay4
November 24, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
Scary indeed! “Mattie”, “Mattie”, “Mattie”, “Mattie”……
By borodawg
November 24, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
Great win! And a lot of positives. I mean a LOT of positives. But not so fast bird poop breath(es). We gave up 28 points. We played ‘prevent’ and they scored anyway on that last possession. (I thought the ‘prevent’ is meant to ‘prevent’.) DelHomme took us to the woodshed. All you bandwagoners will be funny to listen to after the Falcons’ next lose; and they will lose a game or two. And after they make the playoffs and don’t go to the NFC Championship game, you’ll be wanting to fire the coach, trade half the players, get a new owner, and a new GM. I just read some blogs in the Charlotte Observer; yall will act just those ‘fans’; about 90% of which want to fire John Fox. Amazin’. All I’m sayin’ is, half of those of you who are piling on the accolades today will be bashing the players/coaches/owner/GM after the playoffs. Look at the blogs after the Denver game for proof. All I’m saying’ is, half of yall are Monday morning quarterbacks who’ll pull a switcheroo at the first sign of adversary. Yep, we’re having a great season so far; the rookies are really coming through, including the ‘rookie’ head coach; and arguably one of the greatest rookie QB’s ever. Roddy will go to the Pro Bowl - put that in your pipe and smoke it, Gary.
By theedge
November 24, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
One only need look at your name on here to know you are an idiot.
By cc
November 24, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
watching matt ryan stand in the pocket just long enough, with pressure coming, to complete a long 30 yard pass to a receiver is just wonderful, incredible, awesome, etc.mike vick would have already started running, all the sheep would’ve thought ‘oh he’s so exciting and great to watch and an extraordinary athlete’ as he runs around for 15 or 20 yards but only gains about 4, then it’s 3 and long and we got to punt. face it vick supporters, LOSING IS NOT EXCITING! a boring win is more exciting than exhilarating loss by a brilliant bozo.
By theedge
November 24, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
I cannot beleive you are on the team borodog. Next lose WTH? Sign of adversary WTH? Get a clue quickly oh and a dictionary while you are at it. So what number are you and what position do you play? We gave up we’re having
Go Falcons Signed lifelong Falcons Fan
By TheJama
November 24, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
There is an actual football team in Atlanta and the name of that team is the FALCONS. Yep I said it, we actually have a team that competes to win every week, plays hard, and is fun to watch.
That funny feeling you have had all season is pretty easy to figure out. This is what it feels like to be a fan of great organizations/teams like the Steelers or Patriots. (In case I needed to spell it out for everyone)
By Tron5000
November 24, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
Hey bozodawg, how’s the rest of the world look from that ivory tower you’re on? How about you just talk about the Falcons instead of trying to prove that you’re more of a fan than the rest of the people here? Guess what: You are the only one who cares what you think. Put that in your meth pipe and smoke it, Bozo.
By telfairgirl
November 24, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
Hats off to the 12th man at the Dome yesterday! I haven’t felt, seen or heard that much intensity since…well, college football doesn’t count. Atlanta fans made the Dome feel like home, our HOME. Go Falcons!
By Brian
November 24, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Couldn’t be more proud of the Falcons this year. No one who is a fan of the Falcons should be disappointed on how they finish the season…..saying that i can see them finishing the season with three more wins. This next week won’t be an easy one in San Diego though…but i’ll be there cheering them on. GO BIRDS!!!!!
By Getaway
November 24, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
REDNECKWATCH 2008:
Why is it that when ANYONE defends a player who happens to be Black, some REDNECK assumes that it is BECAUSE he is Black????
Two reasons: 1. The “defense” usually includes an attack on a white player. 2. The term “redneck” will be in the post somewhere.
By ck
November 24, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Ok Ryan is the obvious hero but credit should go to the new Gm and Smith… especially Smith. This man stepped into a coaching position wanted by no one… In fact one coach ran to Arkansas to get away from this team.
Bill parcells was about to come in and set is sails for this team and probably was the only other man who could have turned it s fast.
But would he have taken Ryan… The future of this team… They run They pass..and They win…
Nice hires Arthur…you prove once again that you know how to build a winner and put the right people in place… What upsets me the most is that AFTER 30 YEARS IN aTLANTA ….I live in Oklahoma and caN’T SEE THE DANG GAMES…
By Cybed
November 24, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Living here in Charlotte and hearing all the Kitty fans cry today. Makes the whole season for me !
Starting with no expectations at season’s start, makes this ALL gravy!
By jeanE
November 24, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
Just a great game, I was so nervous when Carolina started coming back in the 3rd but we dug in & pulled it out! I agree, Finn shouldn’t be returning punts, let one of the other guys do it. i know he wants to help the team but we need him at reciver. Great recovery of the onside kick, Finn! They put the guy with the best hands out there (Roddy was too)! I don’t blame Roddy for the fumble, it has happened to everyone at one point or another. I love the way everyone has their role: Snelling does screens, Harry returns kicks and runs reverses, Finn moves the chains & given another chance, can score, Roddy the deep route, Jenkins over the middle, love it! I believe in spreading the ball around rather than focusing on one guy. The defense still makes me bite my nails, if Abe gets hurt, we are toast. Chauncey Davis did have one good moment & Jamal batted a ball but he is so not a pass rushing defensive end. I think everyone can see that now. What do we do with him? Brooking is what he is & we have to hope he doesn’t get exploited too much. I was glad they made that 4th down but I was biting my nails the whole time! Go Birds!!!!!!!!!!
By REDNECKWATCH 2008
November 24, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
getaway You truly are an idiot. There is no reference to you/redneck in the post North Fla Falcon and I were are referring to (by easy31).
Secondly, there was no “ATTACK” on a white player.
You should try to keep up.
You should also try to get a grip on your REDNECK paranoia.
By North FLA Falcon
November 24, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
Borodawg has a good point, that we gave up 28 points. Really the only 2 to worry about about were the first 14. After Douglas ran the punt back there was a 15-yd penalty on the return so they had a short field. The final TD was non-essential, late in the game. We do have a soft pass defense, that gave up some mid-length passes. We just got flat lucky on a few dropped balls or poor passes from Delhomme, I think he was really rattled by the crowd and the pressure from Abraham and the others. I still can’t figure Brooking out. He was flying around and made a few stops but he always seems to be the “mop up guy” finishing a tackle. One one play he got burned in the endzone but the receiver dropped it. He has lost a step and seems very slow sometimes. If we lose Abraham to injury and/or Jackson for 4 games we could be in trouble. Notice how Carolina got NOTHING inside, that is Big Grady J taking care of business. We will have our hands full vs. the Chargers but we can do it. Go Birds.
By You got to be kidding me
November 24, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
Regardless of the rest of the season, these falcons have regained my respect and admiration! They play like they want to play and there is nobody acting as a cancer (i.e. DeAngelo Hall) on the team. Hell… even Roddy White stepped up and took responsibility for the missed catch against Denver (though it was a very difficult catch) This team might not just win a Super Bowl… it might win a few!
By Herschel Talker
November 24, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Free Mike Vick. Where all the white women at?
By borodawg
November 24, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
I’m just saying, after a loss many of the bloggers will want to fire somebody or trade somebody; the same one’s who are falling all over themselves with praise this morning. It’s just a perspective kinda thing. I went to the Charlotte Observer.com this morning and saw that 99% of the comments were negative, which is to expected. Many of those bloggers want to fire Fox, make trades, etc. But, the Panthers are a pretty good team and Fox is a pretty good coach. But, before the loss, they were the greatest thing since sliced bread. I’m just saying, when the Falcons lose, it doesn’t mean it’s time to trade Roddy or fire a coach. You’ll be seeing comments like that. Okay, enough negative - great win!
By Champ
November 24, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mr. Blank for putting excitement back into the Georgia Dome. The choices you made this year were the right ones. It really feels good to leave the Dome with a WIN. Coach Smith what ever it is, that you are doing don’t stop doing it. Keep up the the good work we are proud of the falcons organization.
By Champ
November 24, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mr. Blank for putting excitement back into the Georgia Dome. The choices you made this year were the right ones. It really feels good to leave the Dome with a WIN. Coach Smith what ever it is, that you are doing don’t stop doing it. Keep up the the good work we are proud of the falcons organization.
By Champ
November 24, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Thanks Mr. Blank for putting excitement back into the Georgia Dome. The choices you made this year were the right ones. It really feels good to leave the Dome with a WIN. Coach Smith what ever it is, that you are doing don’t stop doing it. Keep up the the good work we are proud of the falcons organization.
By Tron5000
November 24, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
Listen to what that moron Jon Beason had to say about the Falcons after the game:
“I still think that team knows they got away with one,” Panthers linebacker Jon Beason said of the Falcons. “Regardless of what the score says.”
Is this dude for real? What a joke. Everyone should mock him mercilessly for all time.
By Selah
November 24, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
I watched the game in Boston last night, Pourman’s Sports bar across from the Sheraton. And let me tell you, the Bostonians are proud of their product Matt Ryan. When I originally walked in the door everyone was watching N.Y. and AZ, after requesting to watch the Falcons game all televisions in the place was on the GA Dome. Hats off to Turner, Douglas, Coach Smith and espcially Matty Ice as they call him here in Boston.
A proud moment for a Falcon Fan.
By Shell
November 24, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
I am soooooo sick of people saying that Roddy lost the game w/Denver, yes he did not make a catch - but really that last ball was overthrown. The defense did not play as well against Denver as they had the previous weeks. Come on, the games are WON and LOST by the team, not one player!!!!!
signed-Fan of the Team!
By Snook
November 24, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
You think Carolina is the 2nd best team in the NFC? Hahahaha Sorry, idiot, but the Buccaneers are. You know, that team that squashed the Falcons offense and Michael Turner. You’ll see them again in a few weeks and get a heavy dose of reality. The Bucs will win the NFC South. Count on it.
By Snook
November 24, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
You think Carolina is the 2nd best team in the NFC? Hahahaha Sorry, idiot, but the Buccaneers are. You know, that team that squashed the Falcons offense and Michael Turner. You’ll see them again in a few weeks and get a heavy dose of reality. The Bucs will win the NFC South. Count on it. Carolina was 8-2 going into yesterday’s game but don’t let their record fool you. Even the Bucs OWNED them 27-3 this season.
By Falcons Fan
November 24, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Harry Douglas scored on a pitch not a reverse. When are writers and play by play guys going to stop calling the End Around a Reverse? The ball actually has to change direction for it to be called a reverse. And how many times do we see a reverse that they call a double reverse?? It seems this basic concept would be obvious.
Anyways…Falcons rock this year and I am glad to be a season ticket holder for 10 years now!!!!
By Gray Mule
November 24, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
While handing out all the praise for all the good stuff, don’t forget the offensive line. You remember them, That bunch of “no name” guys that were considered the weakest part of the team for several years.
Someone has put in a lot of effort and coaching to bring them up to this point. They are getting the job done. Runners can’t run without blocking. Ryan can’t complete those passes if the O. line doesn’t do their job. Great to have everything come together against Carolina!!!! GO FALCONS! Gray Mule
By THUGWATCH 2008
November 24, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Redneckwatch 2008: idiot? Wow. You really stretched your vocabulary with that one, speedy. You, REDNECKwatch, asked a question, I answered. You may not like the answer, but… first point, from easy31’s post: “…they wouldn’t have been in that situation if Ryan wouldn’t have been picked leading to the Broncos go ahead TD..” Well, they wouldn’t have been in that position if any number of things had happened, including the defense not giving up that last touchdown. So, why defer criticism of White by pointing out something Ryan did?
As for the second part, well, check your name out. That epithet gets slung around a lot in here, especially by people who are more offended by epithets than I am.
BTW (by the way), I spelled epithet correctly so you can Google it.
By SirReal
November 24, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
Where’s the “ONE HEARTBEAT” guy?!!!
By Thriller
November 24, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
I’m telling you that Vick will be in an Atlanta uniform in 2010. He will be pushing Mattie”nice” for the starting job. He will win it and we will trade Mattie for a 1st and second round pick, hopefully someone from Va Tech or Miami but he will be back and we will have that nasty attitude again
By TOMMY NOBIS
November 24, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
WHO NEEDS VICK???
By gamer
November 24, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
You’re right, RODDY WHITE IS A BUST. HE SHOULD BE THE LEADING RECEIVER IN THE LEAGUE, ESPECIALLY WITH A NEW QUARTERBACK THAT HAPPENS TO BE A SENSATIONAL ROOKIE QB.
HOW MANY TEAMS WOULD GO GET RODDY IF THE FALCONS CUT HIM..OR PUT HIM ON THE TRADING BLOCK.
HMMM..MAYBE ALL OF THE OTHER TEAMS. GO RODDY, LET THE HATERS HATE!!!!
By Barry
November 24, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Hey Y’all:
We kicked butt with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!” We won as a TEAM. We play with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”. This is how we play. This is what we do. All of our wins will be convincing when we play aggressive with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!.
I love what I am seeing on the field. I love how the coaches adjusted to the momentum change in the game and speeded it up on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. This shows me that the coaches are fully aware that this young bunch likes to play fast and wild. This awareness can only lead to more wins in this season and next and for present and future individual and team awards that will spell out into “CHAMPIONSHIPS”. Therefore, I am more than ready to wear a Falcon T-Shirt withe the logo and heart saying “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”. Only a team effort from the owners, the coaches, the players, the fans, the media, and the community will make this a great in the present and the furture. As i stated before if the Oakland Raiders use the motto “Just Win Baby” then we in the FALCON NATION must have one. And the most appropriate is “ONE HEARTBEAT!!” We do not win with one star. We win as a team with many stars throughout the organization and the community. We are “ONE HEARTBEAT!!” And I am sure next Sunday the Chargers will feel our rath because they are in our way in the development process of what this team is becoming. Believe me, it is going to be a scary sight for the NFL. I am glad we can see in Atlanta. Npow as I said before and I will say it again, We ar ONE HEARTBEAT. Chargers feel our rath.
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN.
TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!!"Ringold
By monty
November 24, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
Great Win but no time to rest on our laurels. Got to go to SanDiego and face another tough opponent who barely lost to Indianapolis on a last second field goal. THEy looked really good last night. Rivers has a real strong arm and of course they have Tomlinson. Norb Turner was not a happy camper after the game. We will have to fight just as hard next Sunday as we did yesterday! Go Falcons!!
By got Jake?
November 24, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
you guys caught Jake in his throw-it-too-high mode.
Ryan is an ACC guy….what did you expect?
By hardmanb
November 24, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Too many “heros” to mention, but this entire team…southern football fans appreciate the team effort, with every part rising up to complement the whole. This team reeks of good coaching, from skills to attitude. A special kudo for our O—line! What a pleasure to see such excellence…from our own team.
By webhead
November 24, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Did anyone see the the article by Dr. Z on cnnsi when asked who was the smartest football player going today? He named Peyton Manning on offense and Keith Brooking on defense. Cool Huh.
By theedge
November 24, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Thriller I truly hope that post was in jest. Vick will never play for the Falcons again.
With that said I do hope he is given a chance by somebody. He plead guilty to his wrong doings and accepted the punishment of the courts. Once he has served his time his debt to society is paid and he should be able to resume his life. It should be without protests and peta nut jobs harassing him and his employer. If he hasn’t learned a lesson after all this he never will.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
November 24, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
QB RATING
VS TAMPA…..29%
VS CAROLINA…..60%
VS PHILLY………68%
VS DENVER…….71% (WHO GOT KILLED BY RAIDERS)
TOTAL TOUCHDOWNS VS TAMPA & CAROLINA….Z E R O
YEAH THATS A SURE HALL OF FAMER :)
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
November 24, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
TURNER BURNER
“BIG JAMAL WILLIAMS IS WAITING…..ALL 367 LBS WORTH UP THE MIDDLE” :)
CROMARTIE & JAMMER ARE WAITING WITH THEIR CHOPS OUT FOR EVERY PASS LEAF FLOATS
By theedge
November 24, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
Leaf is your team’s mistake don’t go throwing that on the Falcons. Nobody has the boy in the HOF but he is playing well for a rookie. The team is playing well together. I like the Falcons chances on the road at SD. Just keep talking smack.
By Bubba
November 24, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
The entire Falcons organization has a confidence and an attitude that says, “now this is gonna hurt a little.
Regardless of whether or not this team makes the playoffs, they are to be congratulated for a successful season. This ain’t a Rankin team, where you think, “Great. How bad’s it gonna be next year?” This is an Arthur team, where you think, “Great. How good’s it gonna be next year?”
By crabapplejoe
November 24, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
North FLA Falcon wrote: ” I still can’t figure Brooking out. He was flying around and made a few stops but he always seems to be the “mop up guy” finishing a tackle. One one play he got burned in the endzone but the receiver dropped it. He has lost a step and seems very slow sometimes.” You Brooking haters are really too much. He was the second leading tackler on the team yesterday (yeah, thats solo tackles) so how is he a “mop up guy”. I’ve read all the threads on this game and nobody blasts the first round bust Jamal Anderson who probably has three tackles the whole year….but its always Brooking this and Brooking that. As far as Brooking getting “burned in the end zone” I believe that was a blown assingnment by a DB…generally you don’t have linebackers covering wide receivers…Brooking just happened to be the closest Falcon at the end of the play. But, hey he is the only white guy on defense so lets blame him for everything and note that “he’s lost a step”…pleez
By CHECK THESE NUMBERS OUT
November 24, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
VICK SUPPORTER 2-Did you actually just use Ryan (leaf) in the same reference as the Hall of Fame…you have gone from him not winning a game to referencing him and the Hall of Fame in your same post…WOW YOUR REALLY HURTING FOR MATERIAL NOW AND IT SHOWS-Must really suck fighting to come up with new material and having to revert to the Hall of Fame to compare him to.
By the way-WHEN DID TD”S MATTER?
LAST WEEK AND THE WEEK BEFORE IT WAS ALL ABOUT WINS.
Well I guess you gotta keep digging for something.
How about that 94.5 Rating this past Sunday against your new team of the week????
How about the whole sports world lovin on the white boy that you love to hate
How about the last time Vick played the Panthers he had 144 total yards and 2 picks. NICE GAME MR. HALL OF FAMER
How about our new and improved QB ranked 13th in passing rating.
Gamble and Lucas had their chops open to for Leaf’s passes….to bad they never saw one.
CHOKA COLA-THE OFFICIAL DRINK OF MIKE VICK WHEN THE PLAYOFFS ARE ON THE LINE!!!!
By crabapplejoe
November 24, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Jockstap 2 wrote: “CROMARTIE & JAMMER ARE WAITING WITH THEIR CHOPS OUT FOR EVERY PASS LEAF FLOATS” We’re not worried so much about Cromartie & Jammer…we’re worried about whether or not Roddy will be able to haul in the perfect touchdown passes Matty Ice “floats” into his hands in the end zone.
By crabsInMyPantsJoe
November 24, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
I’m just a dumb incested homo redneck :)
By crabapplejoe
November 24, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
To Jockstap 2: You just insulted four different groups of our diverse nation…even for you that is politically incorrect and will not be tolerated under the new administration. LOL!
By claver2010
November 25, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
So how many of you said this kid would be a bust? That he would never be what that con-Vick is? Please this kid has lifted your franchise from the ashes in one year.
By webhead
November 25, 2008 1:52 AM | Link to this
Everybody’s talking about the “wildcat” offense that Miami’s running but the Falcons ran that with Vick for 5 years. Ran without a QB for 5 whole seasons