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Home > Jeff Schultz > Archives > 2009 > January > 03 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USLet’s talk Falcons playoff football
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Hi all. Been to Phoenix a bunch of times but it’s my first time to this new stadium in Glendale. It’s nice enough on the inside but it possibly might be the ugliest new structure on the face of the earth from the outside.
The exterior walls are all silver/metallic panels, with a white retractable roof. I suppose the (lack of) color scheme has something to do with the heat factor in the desert. But it looks like some alien space craft sitting in the middle of a sand dune. As Ledbetter yelled out from the backseat of the car as the stadium came into view, “The Mother Ship!”
It’s perfect football weather outside right now — in the high 60s. But the roof is closed. Why?
“Team decision,” a Cardinals spokesman said.
Well, that clarifies it.
Meanwhile, down on the field, coach Mike Smith decided to accessorize with something special this game: He’s wearing his Super Bowl ring, the one he won with Baltimore eight years ago. I’m thinking Ray Lewis from eight years ago would’ve been a bigger help, but it was a nice thought.
So here’s a few thoughts on the game. I’ll check back periodically and comment when I’m not doing more important things, like taking notes or eating or tracking my special Fantasy League weekend playoff draft.
If I was in Las Vegas and walked into a sports book this morning and it said, “Falcons -2,” know what I’d do? Turn and walk in the other direction and play some blackjack.
Two things concern me. One is the Arizona quarterback. The other is the Falcons’ quarterback.
I know Kurt Warner is, like, 79 years old and has a tendency to turn the ball over. But he has the ability to get rid of the ball quick and that could neutralize the Falcons’ pass-rush — which might be questionable, anyway, with John Abraham not at full strength.
I’m not concerned about Matt Ryan’s nerves or him folding on the playoff stage. But I wonder about him physically. I don’t know if he’s tired or the Falcons are hiding an injury. Or both. But he hasn’t been the same quarterback the last three games that he was for most of the first 13.
Did some quick math: In the last three games, Ryan has completed only 38-of-68 passes (55.8 percent) for two touchdowns and four interceptions with four sacks. In the first 13 games, he was 227 for 366 (62 percent), with 14 TDs and seven interceptions.
He was sacked 12 times in first eight games but only once in the next five.
In the Rams game last week, he missed high a lot. Sometimes that’s an indication of forcing the ball when you’re trying to work through, like, an injury.
Hey, I’m not a doctor or a trainer or a mind-reader. I’m just saying: He hasn’t been the same player.
So now watch him throw for 300 yards and four touchdowns today.
What’s in the Falcons’ favor? Mainly their running game obviously, which allows them to control tempo and the clock.
Maybe also the will of guys like Lawyer Milloy and Abraham, veterans who never expected this season to develop the way it did and have wanted desperately to get back to the playoffs.
Maybe also team morale. It doesn’t help when a guy mouths off about his playing time the week of a playoff game, like the Cardinals’ Edgerrin James did this week.
Finally, here are the odds on the 12 playoff teams to win the Super Bowl from an online sports book.
New York Giants 3/1
Pittsburgh Steelers 5/1
Carolina Panthers 6/1
Tennessee Titans 7/1
Indianapolis Colts 8/1
Philadelphia Eagles 11/1
San Diego Chargers 11/1
Baltimore Ravens 14/1
Atlanta Falcons 20/1
Miami Dolphins 25/1
Minnesota Vikings 28/1
Arizona Cardinals 40/1
The longest odds on the exact matchup: Arizona vs Miami or Baltimore at 100-1.
The shortest odds: The Giants vs. Tennessee or Pittsburgh at 5-1.
Interestingly, the Falcons are listed as the odds-on favorite to score the most points of all the playoff teams this weekend at 3-1.
That’s all for now. Please, no musical requests. I’ll leave that to O’Brien.
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Comments
By PUTTING ON THE FOIL
January 3, 2009 4:28 PM | Link to this
GO FALCONS
By LT-A blogger
January 3, 2009 4:29 PM | Link to this
Crap- Matt Millen just picked the Falcons to win. We have no chance.
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this
hey jeff!!!
By flafalcon
January 3, 2009 4:32 PM | Link to this
Go Falcons
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this
blitz early falcons
By Ohio Falcon
January 3, 2009 4:35 PM | Link to this
Welcome everyone
By Ledbetter
January 3, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this
It’s “THE MOTHERSHIP.” Do not attempt to ajdust your radio. Cards won toss want the ball.
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this
I love it when your teams in the playoffs! I will never take this feeling for granted again. One More Week! WHY NOT US>
By JB
January 3, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this
The roof is closed to “amplify the crowd noise” - funny decision for a team that needed 2 extensions to sell out a freakin playoff game!
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this
Prediction…Norwood shines. He’s been playin hurt, but last week he showed he’s about ready and back. He could be the sleeper component. Go Falcons !!!
By honest_abe
January 3, 2009 4:38 PM | Link to this
hey jeff.
i was going to ask how’s the crowd but i just saw them on tv. looks like its going to be a crazy afternoon.
all comes down to if the falcons front four can get some pressure on warner. that falcons 2ndary has too many holes to keep up with fitz and boldin.
on offense i think the birds need to open things up with a little mis direction and get matt ryan going early with some short passes..
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 4:38 PM | Link to this
Defensive PRESSURE! All day long, let’s just beat down Warner
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this
SHUT UP DONALD!!!
GO FALCONS!!
By JWC
January 3, 2009 4:41 PM | Link to this
We look focused, Van Gorder is dialing up the blitz….. this could be a defensive battle folks…
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:42 PM | Link to this
oooops!!!
By honest_abe
January 3, 2009 4:42 PM | Link to this
the interceptions continue… bleh
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 4:44 PM | Link to this
I have no idea what Matt was looking at with the last pass.
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:44 PM | Link to this
ryan supporter 2…huh?
By JB
January 3, 2009 4:44 PM | Link to this
Disappointing - How about a draw to Norwood??
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 4:44 PM | Link to this
Oh no. The rookie in Rookie of the Year, just showed up for the first time all year. That was not a good play at all. Let’s go Defense
By DJ
January 3, 2009 4:45 PM | Link to this
Pittsburgh Steelers all the way!!!!!!!
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this
Uh Oh!
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this
utah-bama?
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this
same ole birds already losing
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 4:47 PM | Link to this
alright, this aint cool.
By LT-A blogger
January 3, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this
Nice play calling by the Cardinals. How did he catch that? Falcons gotta get the run game going.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this
Don’t like the way this is starting out.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this
Two defenders right there in coverage. Zero ball skills between them. Didn’t even make a try at the ball.
Oh well, 5 straight bad plays ends in a touchdown. Maybe we settle down and play ball now.
By Dawgs2008
January 3, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this
Oh No! The real Falcons have just showed up and we are playing the Rams from 1999!
By kimo
January 3, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this
How about that TD! He made it look easy!
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:50 PM | Link to this
turner time
By T to the D
January 3, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this
Hey Jeff, just in case you were wondering, “Superstars of Dance”, 9p, monday night on NBC.
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this
we need to get our grit back.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this
Fitzgerald. Get a haircut!
By md2020
January 3, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this
what is wrong with ryan these past few games?
By Jim_IT
January 3, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this
I wish both of Roddy’s hands were as good as one of Fitzgerald’s
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this
I’m not a big stat guy but here’s one worth looking at now: Falcons are 11-1 when scoring first this season, 0-4 when they don’t.
By byron
January 3, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this
Dangggggggggggg ITTTTTTTTTTTTT…..this is not how we needed to start :(
By Falcon4life
January 3, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this
Let’s just settle down and play our brand of ball.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this
gonna have to be able to throw the ball to have the running game work?
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this
No running game equals game over.
By donald
January 3, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this
orielly and limbaugh dont do sports..u think they were going to do pre-game??
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this
stack 8 in the box make ryan win the game thats a good strategy
By LT-A blogger
January 3, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this
How was that not offsides? J
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 4:57 PM | Link to this
Damn I wish we had that “gamebreaker”……..
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 4:57 PM | Link to this
obvious off side against the Cards that was NOT called.
Officials are Cards fans.
By JB
January 3, 2009 4:58 PM | Link to this
The ENTIRE D Line jumped off sides!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The officials need to get their heads out of their butts and make the freakin call!!!!!!!!!!!!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 4:58 PM | Link to this
How about some play action like faking to turner then throwing some medium range passes to open up the defense
By Dawgs2008
January 3, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this
This is getting ugly in a hurry. They are getting embarrassed by Arizona! This is the most pathetic performance of the season!
By augkeith
January 3, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this
send us mike
By Phi
January 3, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this
How did the refs not see that the Cardinals D jumped offsides? I saw it, my family saw it, the broadcasters on NBC saw it, and Matt Ryan even saw it. Ridiculous.
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
hey vick supporter..how many td’s did your boy throw this year?
By T to the D
January 3, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
going to commercial that cardinal guy looked mad.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
Rookie has to let go of the ball. He knows he isn’t allowed to run, so the only option is throw the ball.
How does one Cardinal punt returner call for a fair catch and then another one catch the ball and try to advance it right in front of him?!?!?! That’s got to be illegal.
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
too many damn commercials!!!
By mark
January 3, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
need to go play action passing and combo of run and pass blitz on defense
By Jeff
January 3, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this
Well, we offically suck. Can’t block, can’t pass, can’t run and can’t defend. Just sorry!
By mark
January 3, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this
need a turnover bad
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this
We have no chance.. .havent played an offense like this.. just sick man, sick.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this
Warner is and will continue to pick the Falcons secondary apart!!!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this
Game over coons can’t stop anybody on defense today Cardinals can’t do anything wrong
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this
If Chris Houston can’t cover Fitzgerald this game — and right now he can’t — the Falcons have no shot. Adjustments needed.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this
Is it just me or do the Cards just look a bit more amped up for this game than the Falcons? Time for some of that motivation coach. The team looks flat.
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:05 PM | Link to this
our d will get picked apart. dont understand neither of the defenders looked back on the ball for the td… pathetic.. is this the same team
By augkeith
January 3, 2009 5:05 PM | Link to this
none but we need him back or matt ryan need a cool pill
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:05 PM | Link to this
ACTUALLY, LIMBAUGH WAS, TIL HE MADE THAT DUMB COMMENT ABOUT MCNABB …
RYAN’S GOTTA STEP IT UP
TURNER AND THE O-LINE ARE STRUGGLING
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:07 PM | Link to this
Falcons are playing scared,no offense spark, no coaching inspiration will help that
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:08 PM | Link to this
boy.. the offensive line better step it up or its gonna be a long day
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:09 PM | Link to this
its 1st qtr..we can still do it!!
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:09 PM | Link to this
Ryan is letting the ball go a second too late on every pass.
I stand corrected. Special teams came to play today.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:10 PM | Link to this
Need a defensive play bad
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:10 PM | Link to this
Collinsworth is a tool…
He’s the “McCarver” of football.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 5:11 PM | Link to this
Brooking sux!!!!
By JB
January 3, 2009 5:11 PM | Link to this
Brooking has stone hands!
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 5:12 PM | Link to this
wow! Arizona is owning the falcons right now. come on boys! Ryan has got to get rid of the ball on those blitzes. The touchdown was just an amazing play by the cardinals, nothing on the falcons d there. So far, the cardinals have just shown up while the falcons haven’t.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:12 PM | Link to this
CHILL PEOPLE,
ITS STILL EARLY
OUR DEFENSE WAS NOT GOING TO SHUT-OUT THE CARDS OFFENSE
… THINK ITS TIME FOR THE NO-HUDDLE
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this
i love all this premature celebrating.. just wait this game will turn around and vick supporter will go to bed.. give it a rest man.. times have changed
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this
vick supporter..matt ryan and the fans didnt put mike in jail..ryan had nothin to do with it..grow up and move on..vick is gone 4ever..so is oj..4get it
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this
Can we start somewhere outside the 7 yard line? Jeez.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this
such imaginative play calling it’s like two yards & a cloud of dust, offensive line is getting b*** slapped
By Falcon4life
January 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this
Maybe need to interchange Norwood to mix things up a bit. Some screens to the WR or something in the flat to Norwood.
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this
What’s wrong Atlanta? Forgot about Edrin James did’t you.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 5:14 PM | Link to this
Ryan is flustered…… I know one thing, Vick won playoff games. No rookie excuses for Ryan, none for Vick when he played.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:15 PM | Link to this
Decent pass under pressure. Still taking to long to make the decision to get the ball out.
Turner has to run somebody over today. They just don’t have the urgency yet.
But Norwood came to play. Good hard run.
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:15 PM | Link to this
on that last defensive stand, we looked pretty good..
now the offense needs to get clicking.
By preston
January 3, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
For some reason Matt hasn’t been looking as sharp or poised the last few games…..but c’mon buddy, I and all the falcons fans are pulling for you…..the Cardinals are not that good….they are really a one dimensional team…..we should be able to beat this team!!!!!!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
whatever happened to the Heismen Tropy winning quarterback that Arizona drafted from USC is he still playing?
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
Falcons need to find a cure for James. Then the quick release of the old man Warner who by the way reminds me of Jim Hart.
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
they are getting their rhythm now and drive looks go… just a wee bit hyped for the game and will settle down
By william cranman
January 3, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
Chris Houston is in way over his head.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this
LOOKS LIKE A HALL OF FAMER TO ME :)
LEAF IS PATHETIC :)
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this
I told ya’ll Edge was gonna step up. Give me my props
By Jim_IT
January 3, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this
put in Norwood!!!!
By PUTTING ON THE FOIL
January 3, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this
@VS2. Does Vick like you coming up for air so much to run your trap on this blog. Keep honking on BOBO.
By GeorgeW
January 3, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this
There is cause for concern but there is plenty of time for them to setle down. Mostly, the offensive line needs to settle down. They aren’t opening holes nor giving Ryan much time. Still early though…
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this
need to run til matt settles
By moe1up
January 3, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this
yes…..three 1st downs
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this
this is the way the offense is supposed to look
By T to the D
January 3, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this
here we come walkin down the street….
By Worried
January 3, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this
Who cut the manhood off our offensive line?
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this
Ryan can stay in the pocket and will complete passes he is supposed to. They r two totally diff qbs and I would much rather have an unselfish qb
By preston
January 3, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this
72 million dollar bust? Dude.. we are in the playoffs….what the hell are you talking about?
By ndc97105
January 3, 2009 5:20 PM | Link to this
good move to go no huddle
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:20 PM | Link to this
PROPS TO VICK SUPPORTER ON E. JAMES
RYAN WILL SETTLE DOWN, THIS KID IS A FIGHTER. PERIOD.
By Jim_IT
January 3, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this
Offense is starting to roll…
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this
bout time they called it
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this
Finally an offsides call
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this
The “Edge” is gonna “cut” the falcons
By ndc97105
January 3, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this
man we need a tight end that can catch
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this
if we can complete more of these short passes this will open up the run for turner
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this
Finally an offsides call
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this
This is the offense I expected. Ryan is making the calls at the line like a real vet. Even with all the crowd noise he looks more confident running the no huddle
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this
Field goal range
By moe1up
January 3, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this
you idiot…….jenkins…..get the f** first down.
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this
get some balllllssssss… go for the 1st down. u wasnt supposed to be here so what the heck…. show some fight Smith
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this
GO For It!
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this
better!!…VICK HAD TO RUN…HE CANT THROW!!!
By Dawgs2008
January 3, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this
Where is Jeff? I guess he must not have anything to say while he is stuffing his face with free food in the press box.
By JB
January 3, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this
Jenkins got a terrible spot.
“Man I wish we had Vick!!” - NOT!!
U guys are idiots. I’m surprised you have the ability to type.
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
This offense looks settled down.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
how does a reciever on 3rd & 10 not make his cut far enough for a 1st down thats inexcusable!!!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
how does a reciever on 3rd & 10 not make his cut far enough for a 1st down thats inexcusable!!! thats a little league mistake
By Worried
January 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
Hard to run if the D-line is all in the backfield. No blocking for Ryan, either.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
These cocky Cardinal idiots need to be shut up!! We will get it going and beat these turds. Let’s go Falcons.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
STOP WHINING
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:26 PM | Link to this
How does a pro reciever on 3rd & 10 not make his cut far enough for a first down thats a little league mistake!!
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this
Beats a blank.
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this
they shoulda gone for it on 4th and 1
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this
something to build on. lets step it up on the blitz and put em down
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:28 PM | Link to this
Should have challenged the spot. Should have gone for it. Still needs to light a fire under these guys. Turner has to run the LB over, not let him make a tackle for loss. Jenkins has to stay his a* in bounds and make something happen instead of just being content to catch the ball and go out of bounds a half yard short with no defender anywhere around. And Ryan has to deliver the ball in time so the receivers can make some plays.
More pressure please.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this
REDZONE CHOKE CONTINUES
BUST
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this
Lienhart Heismen trophy back-up bwaahahahahahahahah
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:30 PM | Link to this
dude was wide open!!
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this
How the f* does that happen
By jaider
January 3, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this
HeWILLGOALLTHEWAY!!!
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this
BOLDING—-FITZGERALD
——-END OF STORY———
ELAM KEEP KICKING :)
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this
LMAO!!!! I told you!!!!!! TD Cardinals!!!!!!!!!
By Worried
January 3, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this
Milloy blows!!!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this
damn man.. i could catch and run against the d today
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
come on defense!! stop those big plays!
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
Now we will see what Ryan can do when he HAS TO PASS. Might be a long day.
By Vick Supporter 3
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
Man i wished I would’ve got mys welfare check sooner and I would’ve bets against the Falcons Qbs aren’t supposed to throw the ball they supposed to run like Mike. Man when is Obama gonna take care of me cuz I don’t wanna work and section 8 aint enough.
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
well, it was a fun season while it lasted.
By Derek
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
Why exactly are the Falcons favorites for this game? On paper, the Falcons are outmatched by everything but the running game. They have a rookie QB who has been showing signs of wearage the last few weeks. Arizone lights up the sky and I can’t imagine who would think the Falcons can stop this overpowered air attack at this point in their organization?
By Dawgs2008
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
Im glad I didnt use my rent money to pay for next years tickets! This is disgusting!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
milloy is a joke he couldn’t cover a bed with a quilt! he too old & to slow to cover these wide receivers
By Let's go Cards
January 3, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this
14 - 0 let’s go Arizona…
By stephen
January 3, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this
kicking the fg was smith conceding the game. 3 plays later, gameover.
thank you falcons for falsely lifting our hopes. back to the dredge we fall.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this
3 bad plays, with one good one in between by Bierman, and we give up another big TD.
Still no reason to panic
By Falcon4life
January 3, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
Why are we still talking about Vick … at this moment he is probably hard at work making license plates in Leavenworth, KS.
By JB
January 3, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
VICK SUPPORTER 2 - Why don’t you go help your buddy MV7 pick up the soap?
You are an idiot.
By jaider
January 3, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
jaider scratching his head. how could this be? looks like Bbbbama vs UTAH. Go UTES! Screw up the BCS!!!!!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
Warner will end up with about 400yds passing when he really only threw about 100 yds… this is really pathetic play by our secondary
By Worried
January 3, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
Get some strap-ons for the offensive line and the defensive backfield—then maybe those girls could play like MEN.
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
Should have gone for it on fourth down. The Falcons have been aggressive all year in those situations, and it has worked great for them. Now they get in the playoff game and tighten up and kick a field goal. Gotta stay aggressive and not make changes from what has worked all season, or it’s gonna be a one and done playoffs.
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
vs2..u r not football fan, u r in love with vick..stop watching game and go watch mike dance to Rosie Palm and the Five Finger Band in his cell.
By jaider
January 3, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
jaider scratching his head. how could this be? looks like Bbbbama vs UTAH. Go UTES! Screw up the BCS!!!!!
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
Everyone should stop knocking Jenkins…that was all on Mike Smith for not going for it on that 4th and inches. This is the playoffs!!! Don’t settle for a freaking FG deep in the red zone!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
” used slightly falcons football tema for sale cheap “
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:36 PM | Link to this
I AM SUCH A DOUCHE, I HANG OUT ON BLOGS AND SAY OUTRAGEOUS THINGS SUCH AS MATT RYAN IS A BUST AND MIKE VICK WAS A GREAT NFL QB. I REALLY SHOULD HAVE A JOB, AFTER ALL I AM AN ADULT. HOWEVER, HERE I AM HANGING OUT ON AJC BLOGS, DRAWING A GOVT CHECK AND SHOWING MYSELF TO BE A COMPLETE A*******CLOWN.
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 5:36 PM | Link to this
Boldin came up with a hamstring strain…gettin interestin…
By falconfan6487
January 3, 2009 5:36 PM | Link to this
Lawyer Milloy is being exposed for the lack of speed.
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 5:36 PM | Link to this
it looks bad, but there’s still plenty of game left. no matter what happens, this has been an amazing season and I’m very proud of our team.
By falconfan6487
January 3, 2009 5:37 PM | Link to this
Lawyer Milloy is being exposed. The speed that he had is now gone.
By IslandDawg
January 3, 2009 5:37 PM | Link to this
Don’t FREAK people. Have faith. This ain’t the regular old birds!
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this
RODDY!!!
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this
DROP!!!
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this
The Roddy White of old!!!!!!
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this
Dawg2008: Not eating, just watching the game. And I’m not jumping into any Vick-related stuff … Well, I was about to write that the defense was settling down until that Boldin touchdown. Lawyer took a bad angle after the catch and he just doesn’t have the legs any more to catch somebody with that speed. …. Until that last pass to Roddy White — which was dropped — Falcons were sticking with quick underneath stuff on offense, presumably to neutralize the Cards’ pressure. Offensive line has not protected or run-blocked very well.
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this
DROP!!!
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this
OMG!! how did white miss that catch?
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
Now THATS the Roddy White MV had to throw to..LOLOL
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
Roddy you goon!! GD we are destined to lose today.
By Mitch
January 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
We can’t keep making these kind of miscues and win. I’m worried.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
RODDY!!!!!!!!!!!! WTF!!!!!!!!!
By MH
January 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
How come there isn’t a team in the state of Georgia that can handle the hype of a big game??? We all run our mouths but at the end of the day all the teams suck!!
By preston
January 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
Why are you two Vick guys doing this? I guarantee both of you that I was a bigger fan of Vick than you two combined, but you guys sound like idiots. Why don’t guys write Mick Vick and express to him personally your love, support and admiration……ok, and then we can all be friends…..but please, let us Falcons fans watch and enjoy this game.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this
somebody call the dome find out where the falcons left there balls cuz they are playing like they dont have any exspecially the secondary
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this
what a drop. cant throw it any better man
By Worried
January 3, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this
Roddy, Roddy, Roddy. Hell, even I could have cought that ball!
By AustinFalcon
January 3, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this
Wow. Hard to believe Roddy dropped that one and we CANNOT run the ball. I don’t like Matt having to pass on every down.
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this
What’s going on? The Cardinals aren’t suppose to be any good. I guess all the talk about the rookie, p** them off.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this
Come on Roddy. Keep showing your true colors. Take us back to memory lane (dropsies)……
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:43 PM | Link to this
RYAN OVER THE JITTERS I THINK
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:43 PM | Link to this
IF IT LOOKS LIKE A BUST
———-HMMMM———————
MUST BE A BUST :)
By AustinFalcon
January 3, 2009 5:44 PM | Link to this
Chris Houston isn’t talking too much $hi* today. Pathetic.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:44 PM | Link to this
Damn i’ll give ryan some credit dude is firing the ball right to the recievers they just have to catch it. they might be better served by running norwood cause turner looks like he doesn’t have it today to hesitant about his running lanes
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this
A BUST??? YOU ARE A TOTAL MORON
By MH
January 3, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this
Downsouth you didn’t see blank holding them on the bench?
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this
YES!!!!!! TD!!!!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this
here we gooooo…. touchdown falcons
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
I’d say Roddy made up for the drop pretty well the rest of the drive!!!!!!!!!! Nice work to the whole team on that drive!!
By Jaider
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
When will the Cards pick up on the short stuff? Got caught looking. TD Falcons!
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
LEAVE IT TO A “MIKE” TO SCORE :)
By stephen
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
that was a NICE drive. good comeback after drop of the year.
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
Alright!!! Now defense needs a stop
By igotxx3
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
we get the ball 3rd lets hope our D can hold them
By preston
January 3, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this
YES!!!!! TD Mike Turner!!!! We have ourselves a ballgame!!!!!!
By David
January 3, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this
Got to hand it to Ryan- a rookie who is doing well keeping his head on straight amidst all this pressure. Vick didn’t know the difference between a run and a pass play.
Keep fighting Falcons!
Love to hear ignorant people like Vick Supporter 2 running their mouths with their welfare checks.
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this
atlanta may be losing, but WOW is matt ryan playing great!! i like the long drive keeping the ball out of warner’s hands. I can not believe that is a rookie out there! he’s the only reason we even have a chance out there. The future is very bright for this franchise!
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this
HAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAAH at VICK SUPPORTER 2.
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
Mularkey and OL redeemed themselves on that drive. That’s a coach’s TD drive: 14 plays, 76 yards, 6:03. Conservative but efficient. Good call on the third-down fade route to Finneran, who was 1-on-1. That drive really quieted down the crowd, which had been pretty loud.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan is stepping up big time because the Cards have sold out on stopping the run up the middle. Roddy won’t drop another pass today. The defense is looking good other than two big plays.
TURNER TOUCHDOWN!
This game is far from over. We can move the ball at will. Just need to outscheme the other team. We can get after Warner, with 5 or 6 every down. We can still win this game.
It’s time to grow a pair and step up.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
Great drive but worries me with so many 3rd & long conversions having to be made. i wouldn’t mind 3rd & short but to many 3rd & 8’s, 3rd & 10’s too
By Jeff
January 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
sweden advances to the golf medal game in the world juniors!
By game on
January 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
here we go. bring us to the promise land matty! fantastic drive, i think the jitter is gone!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
Another good thing about that drive…took a lot of time to give our defense a rest…seems like we’ve been on the field a lot which is a very good thing!!
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this
As annoying as VS2 is; The idiot PRETENDING to be VS2 is infinately more gay.
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this
My man, the Burner….
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
YYYEEESSSS!!!! INT!!!
By THWG
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
Jeff- Is the Cards’ d-line getting a great jump on the snap or are they offsides? The one blown call in the 1st makes me believe the refs aren’t watching too closely or something.
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
Pick
By T to the D
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
HELLO!!!!!!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
here we go falcons here we go… now whos talking
By T
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
that’s the big play we needed. Nice INT!
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
HELL YEAH>> INT!!! you have to like the momentum right now.
By TheManMike
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
GO CHEVIS!
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
INTERCEPTION!
By preston
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
YES!!!!!!!!!! INTERCEPTION BABY!!!!!!
By MV7
January 3, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this
SPEAKING OF BUST, I KEEP GETTING BUSTED UP MY A** UP IN HERE….DAMN, THEY JUST WON’T LEAVE ME ALONE….I AM GETTING REALLY SORE…THEY SAY PIMPIN’ AIN’T EASY, BUT HAVE TO TELL YOU DOG, BEING IN THE FEDERAL PEN AIN’T EASY EITHER….I AM FINDING OUT THAT BUST HAS A NEW MEANING IN HERE…BY THE WAY, CAN ANYONE HELP A BROTHER OUT AND GIVE ME RYAN’S STATS ON THE DAY?
By Jim_IT
January 3, 2009 5:51 PM | Link to this
That’s the D, I want to see!!!!
By Jeff
January 3, 2009 5:51 PM | Link to this
81 fumbled again, did we sign this guy off the street
By Uga89
January 3, 2009 5:51 PM | Link to this
YES! Let’s do this, Falcons.
By game on
January 3, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this
time of possession is doubled for the falcons… which means… limit the big plays D!!!!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this
WOW we actually have a chance to have a LEAD at the half which would be unreal after the terrible first quarter!!!!!!!!!!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this
ok last 2 times the defense has finally showed up. made some goods stops and the interception now lets get a td go in with the lead or a filed goal mabye take some momentum into the 2nd half
By David
January 3, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this
Haven’t seen Pollard that much… is he usually in there? That’s the second time that the ball popped out— after he was down this time… but man, hold on to that ball baby.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this
CHEVIS JACKSON!
You can’t say enough good things about this rookie class. They have all contributed big time in big games all year. I may be cursing them out for the rest of the game but I had to get that out of my system.
Now get in the end zone. No excuses. Impose your will.
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this
2 passes to Pollard - 1 fumble and 1 almost fumble…Matt, please don’t throw to him again! And GO FALCONS!
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this
A few pre-halftime observations:
Arizona clearly game planned to stop the run and dare Matt Ryan to beat them coming into today’s game. Their linebackers have sold out to stop Turner. The Falcons would be wise to use some playaction going forward.
The Falcons are not getting nearly enough pressure on Kurt Warner to stop the Cardinals’ passing attack. Warner is getting a lot of time to pick apart the Falcons’ suspect secondary. The Falcons’ blitzes have worked slightly better than when they play zone, but they are gonna have to find a way to generate pressure without blitzing in order to keep the Cardinals’ passing game in check.
Arizona’s defensive tackle Gabe Watson, #98, is jumping the snap count regularly and pushing his man into the backfield. I don’t know if the Falcons are tipping their snap count or what, but that shouldn’t be happening.
After the terrible interception on the first drive, Matt Ryan has settled down and made all the throws he needs to make. Credit goes to the coaching staff for calling shorter, simpler passing routes for the most part to get Ryan into a rhythm.
For the most part, the coaching staff has coached a good game, but the decision to kick a field goal on 4th and 1 sends the wrong message. If you are the best running team in football and you are saying you can’t pick up one yard on the ground, that tells the other team you are scared of them. I’m not a fan of that call.
Roddy White drops a perfectly thrown deep pass? Gee, when have we ever seen that before?
By T
January 3, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this
Go playaction to Roddy White. They can’t stop him!
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this
NOT RODDY FAULT ON THAT DROP
GUESS MV7 ISN’T THE ONLY ONE NOT THROWING CATCHABLE BALLS :)
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this
a Master of adjustments, workin with what he has…..do it Van Gorder ! I caint believe the children voicing defeat/disappointment….this is a Pro game, 60 minutes long. Get after em, Falcons !!!
By Jeff
January 3, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this
blow the whistle!!!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this
is it possible… we gonna take the lead into halftime and come out smoking, u gotta love it baby
By MH
January 3, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this
How do you miss that?
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this
jesus matt!1 he was wide open
By preston
January 3, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this
ok……looks like Turner and Ryan have settled down……how crazy would it be for us to actually go into half ime with the lead after that bad start.
By T
January 3, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this
Vick Supporter… go away please! They had Roddy! ooh.
By David
January 3, 2009 5:56 PM | Link to this
Am I crazy or are the refs like missing offsides calls altogether or calling them really late. A couple of times these guys are about to decapitate Matt on an obvious penalty.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:56 PM | Link to this
WIDE OPEN IN THE ENDZONE
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
——-I COULD MAKE THAT COMPLETION——-
BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:56 PM | Link to this
BS2, YOU REALLY ARE A MORON
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 5:57 PM | Link to this
Well, just as I posted that, Abraham got good pressure on Warner on two consecutive plays, the secondary made a pick, and Ryan got Watson to jump offsides using a hard count.
Momentum is definitely shifting in the Falcons’ favor right now, regardless of whether they come away with a field goal or a TD here.
By donald
January 3, 2009 5:58 PM | Link to this
PETEETONG MAN!!!!!
By Indifferent
January 3, 2009 5:58 PM | Link to this
IN MATT RYAN I TRUST.
All the Vick supporters need to find another blog.
HAHAHAHA! How you like Ryan now!?!?!?!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
YYYEEEESSSS!!!!!!!
BTW Roddy White has MORE than made up for the dropped pass! Nice work coaches to keep him in there and keep throwing it to him.
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
we r back. man just persistent baby… TOUCHDOWN FALCONS !!!!
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
Yes Sir!!!!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
ok now we look like the team thats played all year didnt you think they were going to give it to turner?
By Worried
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
GREAT CALL!!! Geez, doesn’t it feel good to have the LEAD!
By MH
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
Go Falcons!!!
By T-Town Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
TD baby!!!!! Falcon’s lead and get the ball to start the second half. Stick that in your crack pipe and smoke it Vicks Jockstrap 1 and 2.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
MATTY ICE!!!!!! MATTY ICE!!!!!!
WHAT UP NOW?!!! BEYOTCHES!!!!!!!
By Dixie Dawg
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
17-14 us…..that’s more like it..
By This Gets Old
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
Remember when the Falcons ran that play to the opposite side in the Green Bay game and Ryan over threw? More important now.
By Ryan Supporter 1
January 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this
Go away Vick Supporter 2, just like your qb. GO AWAY… You $UCK!
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this
That was a huge touchdown. Falcons have a lead and have taken this crowd out of the game. Play-action had me fooled — and obviously everybody on the Az defense. Falcons have 17 points on last three possessions after going scoreless with a pick on their first three.
By LEDBETTER
January 3, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this
Hey Jeff,
Bring me back a hotdog at halftime. I’ve got to write some first half running.
D. Led
By preston
January 3, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this
HELL YEAH!!!!!! TD BABY!!!!! LOL…..and it is to Pollard!!!!
By This Gets Old
January 3, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this
Remember when the Falcons ran that play to the opposite side in the Green Bay game and Ryan over threw? More important now.
By FalconFan
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
FALCONS LEAD!!
By Vick Supporter 3
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
Gooooo Falcons. Vick supporter 2, you are an idiot.
By Vick Supporter 3
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
Gooooo Falcons. Vick supporter 2, you are an idiot.
By BugKiller
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
Vick Supporter…
… you do realize your name means your job is to protect and coddle the testicles of Mike Vick, right?
And you do such a good job of that, you’d think you were Vick’s, The THUG from THUGtech, cellmate.
‘Cause you know, Vick is in prison for being piece of human garbage, right?
Just wondering if you realize this.
By Vick Supporter 3
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
Why did Matt Ryan have to do good now, an make me look stupid I wanna feel smart and say vick is good, and that ryan just has better receivers but oh…….what they are the same receivers I can’t win. Go Obama pay me
By IslandDawg
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
What ye all say now? I love(d) Vick too but he isn’t playing and I love the Falcons (team) more!!17 -14 … GO BIG MO!! Go Birds!!!!
By Indifferent
January 3, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this
Vick Supporter - how does Vick’s caulk taste in your mouth? Crawl back into the hole that you came out of….you’re a gigantic loser.
By Ryan Supporter 1
January 3, 2009 6:04 PM | Link to this
NOBODY respond to the MV7 supporters. They are nothing but freaking idiots. Don’t give them the satisfaction… and hope they go away like they’re hero.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this
Ryan blew that touchdown pass. He threw it 10 yards out of the back of the end zone. Terrible.
Then RODDY WHITE bails him out with a MAN SIZED CATCH ON THE SIDELINES!
Then a great play call for the touchdown.
The Falcons are simply the better team. They better keep the pressure on the rest of the game. The defense is right there on every play, and tackling pretty good since that first drive. Matt Ryan is taking the dare and beating the Cardinals in the air. The coaching staff has removed the foot from their butts and is making good adjustments.
Arizona was playing about as well as they could. The Falcons made about every mistake they could have made. But we are not only still in it. We are ahead and we have the momentum.
If anybody had told me that Turner would be largely ineffective, Ryan would throw a pick, Warner would go for almost 200 and 2 TD’s in the first half, I would have expected a much different looking game.
By preston
January 3, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this
correction..in my excitement, I thought Matt’s throw was to no. 81, but it was Peele no. 87.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this
WATCH YOUR BACK RODDY
I THINK YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN….DROP 1-PASS AND SEE HOW THEY TURN ON YOU…..
72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this
After a bad start that was a great way to finish the half up!!
By donald
January 3, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this
matt millen and the Bus look like gi joe and Action Jackson!
By O'brien
January 3, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this
Guys, Let’s try not to over react after every bad play. If the Falcons listened to some of you guys, they would have thrown in the towel already. Be patient. We lead 17-14, and I think we get the ball to start the second half.
Let’s go Falcons!
By TURTSNAP
January 3, 2009 6:07 PM | Link to this
Maybe the refs can actually call offsides more on AZ and intentional grounding as well in the 2nd half!!!
By Ohio Falcon
January 3, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this
uh oh its 1/2 time. isnt that when olberman comes on? I boycott nbc for putting him on. someone let me know when game returns
and before you say it, no, rush shouldnt have been on either
go Falcons!
“gamebreaker” heheheheheehhehehehheh what a joke!
By Steve
January 3, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this
Mr. Blank … if you are reading this, then you better listen up.
Ink Mularkey to a HUGE deal now. If you lose him it could stunt Ryan’s impressive career before he really even gets started. Give him big money now and show him you know just how important he is.
By Dan
January 3, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this
The offense finally got going. The worst performing group thus far, the referees. How many offsides calls did they miss?
This game shows us that we need more secondary help via draft or free agency…
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this
DIDNT THE 1ST GAME AGAINST THE BUCS SHOW YOU?
THIS KID IS NOT GOING TO BACK DOWN!!!
NO OFFENSE TO TURNER (PUN INTENDED), CUZ THE GUY HAS CARRIED US
BUT THE KID HAS STEPPED UP! AND THREW US BACK IN FRONT, THANK GOD WE DONT HAVE THAT …
130-MILLION DOLLAR BUST!!!
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this
THWG — just saw your question. Yes, that offside call against Az was the first one called but about the third one I saw. But I’ll say this — Cards’ defense is playing very well. They’re anticipating routes, plays, etc. That last Turner TD run was the only time they looked bad.
By Jerome
January 3, 2009 6:10 PM | Link to this
I am a Vick supporter and i hope he gets another shot in the NFL but we have a great future with Matt Ryan and I am behind him all the way……Gooooooo Falcons. By the way, the other supporters in this blog are just trying to rile you people up so just ignore the idiots.
By Jerome
January 3, 2009 6:10 PM | Link to this
I am a Vick supporter and i hope he gets another shot in the NFL but we have a great future with Matt Ryan and I am behind him all the way……Gooooooo Falcons. By the way, the other supporters in this blog are just trying to rile you people up so just ignore the idiots.
By Ryan Supporter 1
January 3, 2009 6:10 PM | Link to this
We can take control of this game with a good drive and points to start the 2nd half. Come-on Birds!
By T to the D
January 3, 2009 6:11 PM | Link to this
Pressure can’t melt ice!
By Kelly McFalcon
January 3, 2009 6:11 PM | Link to this
Matty Ice is living up to his name! I folded and put up my 7 jersey a long time ago…rocking the 2 now and I’m loving the playoffs. Hey Vick supporters…join the rest of us and enjoy this awesome Falcon team! We’re having a great time but it sounds like you’re miserable.
By crazygrocer
January 3, 2009 6:11 PM | Link to this
The Birds are flying high in Glendale…The mind has a tendency to play tricks at such an intense sporting event, rushing yards are infected.
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 6:11 PM | Link to this
Anybody worryin about Steve Smith and John Kasay already ? lookin forward to a sweet second half here, but hopin we get superstrength to go beat Carolina. We gon need it.
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this
Cards haven’t announced anything but Boldin pulled a hammy at the end of his touchdown catch/run. Status is iffy.
By BugKiller
January 3, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this
No, if Roddy White turns out to be a piece of human garbage like your hero (which I would never think of the humble White, although he has been misguided in the past)…
… then we would turn on him.
You see, MikeVick’sJockStrap, when someone is a piece of human garbage, a complete and utter sociopath, like Mike Vick is, then it is customary for people to reject him utterly and completely.
The fact that you have refused to reject him utterly and completely makes me worry about what kind of person you are.
Only other pieces of human garbage, sociopaths without an ounce of empathy, without a moral compass to guide them, would still gingerly protect the groinal-area of someone like Mike Vick the way you do.
So that begs the questions, MikeVick’sJockStrap…
… what the frak is wrong with you???
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this
I like the Falcons aggressive play on defense…need to keep that up. It would be huge if the Falcons could take the opening drive of 2nd half in for a TD.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this
And for all of you who are upset or aggravated or get any negative feeling what so ever from the antics of VS2 or VS, I have a suggestion.
Try to think of it as comic relief. Trust me, it will get even more humorous as our Falcons get medieval on the Arizona yardbirds for the whole second half.
By satchmo
January 3, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this
Looking good,keep taking it to the house.
By Falcon4life
January 3, 2009 6:14 PM | Link to this
What we have to like is the time of possession in our advantage overwhelmingly - 21:19 to Arizona’s 8:41…. thats how we will win this game. Keep the ball out of Warner’s hand.
By jacky jack
January 3, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this
Micheal Vick is a dog. And so are you, Vick 2
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this
Thats what I like to see! Lets go birds we get the ball in secound half.
By donald
January 3, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this
where has norwood been…saving him?
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this
Cards just announced Boldin is questionable
By john
January 3, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this
oh my god!!!! can you believe that
By Ryan Supporter 1
January 3, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this
OMG, what the hell was that?
By Worried
January 3, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
Come on Ryan! The way they are jumping your snap count, a hard count or three could get lots of FREE yards.
Oh—Michael Turner: take off that pink tu tu and put your jock back on.
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
That was terrible. What the heck was that.
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
are you kidding me? are you kidding me! wtf just happened? we can’t keep giving these point’s away like this!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
Falcons need to start mixing up the snap count. The defense is there in no time EVERY play.
By preston
January 3, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
Awwwww crap…I hate those freak plays!!!!!!!!!
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this
Ouch that hurt…but can someone please SHUT Collinsworth up…whomever said he is the McCarver of the NFL is soooooo right.
By T-Town Dawg
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
Another blown call by the officials costs the Falcons a td. That is at least three missed offsides calls by these sorry a$$ officials. Could cost us the game.
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
OK. How to blow a lead and momentum in one easy lesson.
By Dawgs2008
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
That was ugly! Way to just give them points and the momentum. That will hurt more than anything. That right there just might be the difference in the game.
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
Yep…we still have work to do on the O-line. another cheap TD for the Cards.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
GET READY FOR VICK IDIOTS IN 3..2..1…
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
So much for scoring on the first drive…uggghhh.
By Forrest Gump
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
WTF was that?
By john
January 3, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this
so we were ahead for what… like 27 seconds? Gotta do something to slow those guys down.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:20 PM | Link to this
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
———-CAN’T EVEN HAND IT OFF———
BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST
By Rob
January 3, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this
Oh no I just put my Falcons hat on. These refs are killing me. Can Matt please mix up the f in snap count!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this
Collinsworth did a great job highlighting what went wrong on that fumble — Arizona has been jumping the snap count all game (no Schultz, it’s not offsides if they anticipate the snap count and get off the ball just as he snaps it) and it came back to haunt the Falcons there. They drew the Cardinals offsides on the previous drive at the end of the first half by using a hard count. Maybe they should do that more often until the Cardinals get back on their heels a little bit.
By Peter
January 3, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this
Chill. This is the Falcon’s game.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this
Those damn Card linemen are offsides every damn play, and coming straight upfield. This getting ridiculous. If they are so committed to stopping us inside, we have to beat them somewhere else. Is there a screen play in the book?
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this
No comment…………..
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this
Turner was going to take it to the house…but I guess they called time out in time…We need Turner to play like he’s at the GA Dome and get some scores.
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this
Overcome…is what Good Teams do. Cardinals have 3 TD’s, everyone, a big play. Lets see who can play every down. This Team has no quit, in spite of a freak tendency to do a Plaxico, occasionally.
By Worried
January 3, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this
I cannot believe we are not capitalizing on the Cards jumping the snap count. Change the snap count with a hard count. Mix in some screens and let them come. This ain’t rocket science!!!!!
By Tyler
January 3, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this
Cannot get a single frigging break. Just maddening.
By john
January 3, 2009 6:24 PM | Link to this
If you can’t stop them, hold them!!
By It Continues
January 3, 2009 6:24 PM | Link to this
More poor officiating…why should it be any different than it was in the regular season. The Cards have been lined up off sides the whole game. and magically the Cards call the TO perfectly. Can’t stand losing games like this.
By Peter
January 3, 2009 6:26 PM | Link to this
chill out
By Big MIKE
January 3, 2009 6:27 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe the part time fans on this blog, I’m just finishing watching the first half of this ATL-ARZ game and the part time never taken a snap on the field fans have thrown the birds under the bus. Where is the loyalty? Please do us all a favor, if you don’t understand football, please don’t blog about it. It truly is a waste of good space, and it shows your stupidity of the game. Go play with your new play station, and madden and pretend you know the game. You’ll look impressive to your buddies [who no less than you do] and have a cold beer so you truly think you know it all.Football is a game played for four quarters, and the falcons know this. Oh before I go, just a reminder the Falcons lead the game at the half you rightous sellout part time wanna be a real fan bloggers: DAWG 2008,DOWNSOUTH,And DIXIEDAWG.Get a hobby besides thinking you know sports, because you truly don’t!
By john
January 3, 2009 6:28 PM | Link to this
Have we forgotten how to play football???????? Act like you’ve been there (oh that’s right, most of these guys haven’t)
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 6:28 PM | Link to this
Might have to change my name to FalconsAreDone…what a TERRIBLE start to the second half.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 6:29 PM | Link to this
Vick is my QB, but Ryan can QB his a* off. See, the difference betweeen us and the Vick haters is that they aren’t man/woman enough to admit Vick could play. That’s the difference. I know I’ll be attacked for this, but……..nevermind. We all know the truth……
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 6:29 PM | Link to this
Obviously we are destined to lose. Everything, call, etc. is going against us including obvious home cooking by the refs.
By Dalbird
January 3, 2009 6:29 PM | Link to this
Man…these announcers are in the bag for the Cardinals. Looks like the fix is in.
By FalconFan
January 3, 2009 6:29 PM | Link to this
The Cardinals are offsides everytime!!!!!!
By The Hitman
January 3, 2009 6:29 PM | Link to this
The o-line sucks!!!!!!!!
By Peter
January 3, 2009 6:30 PM | Link to this
O.K. Let’s reverse the season. We’re 5-11 and we’re still three years away from a game like today? HAPPY! We’re trailing by 4 with a rookie QB and LT. Sometimes you guys sUck!
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 6:30 PM | Link to this
some folks need to make some plays for scores out there for ATL. Too many breakdowns on offense and special teams…c’mon D!
By jimmyingainesville
January 3, 2009 6:30 PM | Link to this
Looks a lot like the same old Falcons… where is the imagination … screens … running back tosses …. outside?
It’s disappointing to be a Falcon fan…
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:30 PM | Link to this
Najeh—Thanks, I know what offsides is and isn’t. I’m just saying I counted three times where I thought they were offsides. But Collinsworth is right — Cards are anticipating things well, like I wrote above.
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 6:30 PM | Link to this
LETS GO DDDDDD
By O'brien
January 3, 2009 6:31 PM | Link to this
Ok. So we had a 3 point lead, and the ball. And now we’re behind 4 points, and Arizona has the ball.
We need a big play from our defense.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 6:31 PM | Link to this
So much for coming out hot. We’ll be lucky to hold them to a field goal after that offensive disaster. Guess I can’t complain about the officiating since the officials missed that terrible holding in the end zone by Baker. He is getting abused.
By T
January 3, 2009 6:32 PM | Link to this
Who is this team. Can they please realize they are playing the freakin Arizona Cardinals, please?
By Rock Preston
January 3, 2009 6:32 PM | Link to this
he missed it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By john
January 3, 2009 6:32 PM | Link to this
nice stop defense — now CHANGE THE SNAP COUNT!!!!!!!!!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 6:33 PM | Link to this
Acually we’ve caught some NICE BREAKS from the officials in the past few minutes.
By john
January 3, 2009 6:33 PM | Link to this
nice stop defense — now CHANGE THE SNAP COUNT!!!!!!!!!
By IslandDawg
January 3, 2009 6:33 PM | Link to this
You Gotta LOVE Mike Smith. What a cheerleader!…score now for the lead 24-21!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
the o-line has been great all year.. dont give up now on them. still got game left hitman.
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
good job Houston! truth be told, I think the refs are letting them play unless it’s so blatant that they have to make a call. The offense needs to settle down, go back to no-huddle, change the snap count and play their game. Go Falcons!
By GeorgeW
January 3, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
I’m seeing both as well. yes, they are anticipating the sanp count well but they also have indeed been offsides due to it. Hopefully, Mularkey will remind Ryan of the hard count.
By T-Town Dawg
January 3, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
Make up calls on the off and def holding non calls. Unfortunately, they don’t give us the td back.
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
Alright, we needed that. Now we need a long drive with a TD!
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
For all y’all hollering about how the fix is in and the Falcons are getting screwed out of calls, two very obvious calls went against the Cardinals — the hold in the end zone and the pass interference no-call on Chris Houston. Bad officiating tends to evens out.
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this
a missed field goal…. possibly the first thing that has gone our way today. can they please call an offsides on the cardinals linemen!!
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this
This is what the playoffs are all about. Crazy things happen. GO FALCONS
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 6:36 PM | Link to this
Let’s keep running the ball but can we see a little bit of Norwood. The Cards seem to have Turner’s number so far.
By Peter
January 3, 2009 6:36 PM | Link to this
Just like the Falcons need to do: Hold your water.
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 6:37 PM | Link to this
good job Houston! truth be told, I think the refs are letting them play unless it’s so blatant that they have to make a call. The offense needs to settle down, go back to no-huddle, change the snap count and play their game. Go Falcons!
By Crewser
January 3, 2009 6:37 PM | Link to this
we can do this Falcons. lets get our game face on
By TampaBird
January 3, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this
LETS GO
By Worried
January 3, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this
Nice shank, Koenen. We already have that record for fewest return yards. You can cut that crap out!
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this
FAIR WEATHER FANS TAKE A HIKE
WE NEED TO GET SOME TURNOVERS
C’MON DEFENSE!
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this
the o-line sucks man they are getting thier asses handed to them
By Dalbird
January 3, 2009 6:39 PM | Link to this
WOW now James looks like a world beater. Lets go DDDDDDDDDD!
By John
January 3, 2009 6:39 PM | Link to this
I can’t take these announcers. Pushing mute.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 6:39 PM | Link to this
Why is 56 spying on Warner instead of covering the TE?
By john
January 3, 2009 6:41 PM | Link to this
Warner rushes for a first down?? Wasn’t Reagan president the last time that happened??
By downsouth
January 3, 2009 6:41 PM | Link to this
put a fork in the falcons they are done like toast
By Worried
January 3, 2009 6:41 PM | Link to this
I cannot believe you just let a 47 y/o quarterback run 5 yards for a first down.
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 6:42 PM | Link to this
The Cardinals are last in the leauge in rushing and the Falcons cant tackle him.
By T
January 3, 2009 6:42 PM | Link to this
THE LEAGUES MF WORST RUNNING GAME and we are making them look like the GD best rushing team in the league. COME ON DEFENSE!!!!!!!!!!!
By NoCards
January 3, 2009 6:42 PM | Link to this
Come on, Falcons, Go, GO GO!!! Doing fine!!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 6:44 PM | Link to this
What’s with the three man rush/zone defense? Is Ed Donatell coaching?
The Falcons are lucky Edgerrin James is well past his prime. With the amount of movement the Cardinals’ O-line is getting at the line of scrimmage, a good RB would have probably scored a touchdown by now on his drive.
Great play calling on this drive by Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt — you know, the guy the Falcons should have hired last year instead of Petrino.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 6:45 PM | Link to this
Can we not wrap somebody up and tackle?
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 6:45 PM | Link to this
Brooking getting exposed.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:46 PM | Link to this
NO PASS RUSH AT ALL
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
Game over!
By T
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
Man, our defense is really letting us down.
By NoCards
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
Blitz!!! 28-17. Man. SAD.
By falconsfan in KC
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
how much are these refs getting paid by the cardinals?
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
FAT LADY DONE SINGING
———-LEAF SUCKS———-
SEE YOU ON DRAFT DAY :)
By Worried
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
No men on the offensive line.
No men on the defense.
Where did they all go?
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
Huge TD. Puts the Falcon 2 scores down and I don’t know if they can make that up with the way the OL is getting whipped. … I don’t know what they’re saying on TV but Abraham really looks like he’s laboring — when he’s in there.
By Yes TOUCHDOWN
January 3, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this
Keep up the good work Cardinals… TOUCHDOWN…. YES
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this
The “O” & “D” Line can’t get it done
By mmgtfan
January 3, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this
NFL Draft needs: Defense , Defense and more DEFENSE
By History
January 3, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this
Stick a fork in these birds, they are done
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this
OK it is now Roddy White time…..
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this
This is not good. As usual for the Falcons.
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this
The “O” & “D” Line can’t get it done Bad time to have a Bad game
By TampaBird
January 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this
C’MON FALCOONS Manage the game,plenty of time.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this
Down by two scores now late in the 3rd quarter, this game has become exactly what the Falcons probably didn’t want it to be — a shootout where the Falcons’ passing game and run defense have to step up and make plays. If the Falcons come back and win this, it’s likely gonna have to be Matt Ryan making the big plays, not Michael Turner.
It’s still way too early and way too close to give up on the running game, but the Falcons definitely could have used a red zone stop right there.
By CDS
January 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this
28-17. If the Falcons don’t score on this next drive, this game may very well be over. The Cards are dominating the line of scrimmage and making Edgerrin James look like he’s 20 years old again.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this
I see now. The Falcon Defense was taken over by the GA Bulldog Defense at halftime. That’s why they suck.
By O'brien
January 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this
Watching this game makes it obvious that our offensive line has overachieved this year. And we are getting no pressure from our D-Line.
Hopefully, these needs will be addressed in the draft and free agency.
We need a TD. Lets go Falcons!
By History
January 3, 2009 6:50 PM | Link to this
Stick a fork in these birds, they are done
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 6:50 PM | Link to this
Definitely GAME OVER now.
By Jeff
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
Thats what happens when you have sissy a$$ boys palying against men. We are now cut out for the playoffs and we will be back to crap next year. STOP DRESSING OUT THE CHEERLEADERS FOR BIG GAMES. CAN WE PLEASE GET REAL FOOTBALL PALYERS IN THIS LOSER TOWN!@!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
Alright Falcons…go ahead and put us out of our misery.
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
The “O” & “D” Line can’t get it done Bad time to have a Bad game
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
The “O” & “D” Line can’t get it done Bad time to have a Bad game
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
The “O” & “D” Line can’t get it done Bad time to have a Bad game
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
I see now. The Falcon Defense was taken over by the GA Bulldog Defense at halftime. That’s why they suck.
By MonkeyMan
January 3, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this
Another mistake!!! Why are we getting out of our style?
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 6:52 PM | Link to this
Good coverage again, but that was an underthrow.
By Crawford
January 3, 2009 6:52 PM | Link to this
Hey it was a good run, much better than any of us thought was possible. Ryan looks like a rookie today and the defense needs some major overhauling
By Worried
January 3, 2009 6:52 PM | Link to this
Well, Scheist. It was a great year. You guys exceeded ALL our expectations. I just hate to see you embarrass yourself this way.
By Dalbird
January 3, 2009 6:52 PM | Link to this
AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH………!
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 6:53 PM | Link to this
They always go to that 3 man rush zone defense , and it never works…it has lost us games in the past.
Rookie throw by Ryan….No heart shown by Roddy.
Put a fork in em.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:53 PM | Link to this
STILL BETTER THAN VICK
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 6:53 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan back to pass……INTERCEPTED!!!!!!!!LMAO. I told u the cardinals wouldn’t lay down. I told u Edge would step up!!!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this
QUIT TRYING TO RUN THE BALL…IT’S NOT WORKING IDIOTS
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 6:55 PM | Link to this
YOU ARE KIDDING RIGHT?
——WAS THAT A DEEP PASS?———-
THAT BALL LOOKED LIKE A FALLING DUCK…..
THAT’S WHY YOU DON’T DRAFT A “PEE WEE” LEAGUE THROWING ARM….
———THAT’S READING THE DEFENSE——-
2-MORE PICKS……
BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST
By Dalbird
January 3, 2009 6:56 PM | Link to this
OMG…..they gave it to Norwood!
Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit. Don’t quit.
By GeorgeW
January 3, 2009 6:56 PM | Link to this
Ill advised pass for a interception. I think we will lose this ballgame. The momentum is clearly with Arizona and the Falcons are showing desperation to try and get it back rather than just play their game. Oh well. It was a great ride and I’m proud of the teams unforseen success this season. We clearly have positive things to build on.
By CDS
January 3, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this
28-17. If the Falcons don’t score on this next drive, this game may very well be over. The Cards are dominating the line of scrimmage and making Edgerrin James look like he’s 20 years old again.
By The Original(and no longer) Falcon4Life
January 3, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this
It’s been going on all year. The NFL had a script for Matty Ice to be a saviour for the Falcons franchise from day 1. Just as they had a script for the NO Saints to advance after Katrina. The quickest and surest way to maintain the fanbase that Vick built is to give the fans a false idol to worship. And Matty Boy is the perfect “tool” (pun intended). Too bad they didn’t deliver the script to the Az Cards. The safety that was not called and the pass interference on C. Houston were blatant and obvious attempts by the refs (league) to effect the outcome of the game in Matty’s favor.
But Matty Ice is failing miserably even with the additional help….oooops…there goes another interception.
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this
Schultz…Why aren’t the Falcons running Norwood more? There have been some holes that Norwood might have hit a little faster than Turner today.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this
That was not a good throw by Ryan (if anything it should have been overthrown, not underthrown) but more importantly it was a terrible play call. I’m not sure if the coaching staff is panicking and giving up on the run already or what, but if they are it’s way too early to do that. If they wanted to throw deep they shouldn’t have restricted Ryan to a sideline throw. Deep throws down the sideline require that the ball travels a longer distance in the air, and the sideline effectively acts as a second defender in that situation.
I know the running game hasn’t been effective in this game so far, but there’s still gotta be some balance between pass and run. Norwood needs to be used more too.
A deep post to White off a play fake would have been a good call. An underthrown sideline route to White? Not so much.
By Stephen
January 3, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this
Falcons D just had a couple bad plays, and gave up ONE drive. That will do it in playoffs. Still lots of time. no worries yet. Very proud of even being in playoffs.
Shame that a 11-5 team has to play on road of a team with lesser record. Dont that mean anything? I know AZ won division, but would love to have had this one in OUR dome.
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this
TV announcers have barely mentioned Abe’s name…he seems to be a non-factor so far. I still say we need to look to Norwood to break one.
By TampaBird
January 3, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this
MANAGE THE GAME c’mon Smith
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this
COME ON WERE STILL IN THIS GAME…..YOU ACT LIKE IT’S 2:00 LEFT…WE’VE COME BACK BEFORE…..QUITTERS
By T
January 3, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this
Falcons: 12 yds and 2 turnovers in the 3rd qtr! Sorry, that is not only not going to get it done… but, it will allow the other team to very easily get it done.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this
Bye bye Falcons. Game, set, match.
By Worried
January 3, 2009 7:00 PM | Link to this
This is EXACTLY how I felt during the Alabama game.
By Steve
January 3, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this
Did anyone actually believe the Falcons were better than the Cardinals? I mean, really? No, seriously… reeeaaallly??? Can you say it with a straight face?
By CDS
January 3, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this
If we go on to lose this game, not self-respecting Falcons fan can complain about this season, especially considering where this team was 1 year ago. Matt Ryan played very well for a rookie QB starting in a playoff game. He will only get better. We do have some glaring issues in the secondary and the defensive line, but I have every bit of faith that Dimitroff will address these positions in free agency.
Good season Falcons. See how nice a season can be when we get rid of a bunch of me-first players and work as a team?
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 7:04 PM | Link to this
Just like I said these idiots out there are the GA Bulldogs. Who was the goof that just tried to throw the Cardinal guy down on the punt.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:04 PM | Link to this
WEAK SCHEDULE EXPOSED
——LIKE I SAID ALL SEASON———
WEAK SCHEDULING ONLY LOOKS GOOD AGAINST WEAK TEAMS……
——-72 MILLION DOLLAR BUST———
UP NEXT…….
DRAFT DAY :)
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this
time to go no huddle…that’s about the only way we can get back in the game.
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this
Come on Falcon fans…what a season what a game. We have made some rookie mistakes but we are still in this thing. Need to score soon to make this a one score game. No matter what happens this game the future looks great. Need a few more players
By jeanE
January 3, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan (a.k.a. Dennis the Menace)chose today to regress further!!! Why are we throwing a bomb on 1st down when we haven’t done that all year??? NOw is not the time to unvail that play & of course, he underthrew it causing yet another pick!!!!!! Who the he— is Pollard & why are we throwing to him? Turner looks slow yet again hitting the holes, what’s up with that? I can’t believe this crap, it is just disgusting!!!
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this
SOME OF YOU GUYS SUCK LIKE THE FALCONS D-LINE
THERE’S STILL TIME LEFT
HORRIBLE PASS BY RYAN
BUT THEY STILL HAVE A SHOT
By Nan
January 3, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this
what the H was that?
By Braindawg
January 3, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this
Thats bulls_! Bad call on the safety!
By SAFETY Yes Way to Go Cards
January 3, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this
Keep on TRUCKING Cardinals… YES, YES, YES…. LOL
By Edo River
January 3, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this
I agree with you CDS I thought the Falcons would need to take another step with their mediocre stats on pass defense. Just look it up. The team was not good enough in this area during the season. So we just take the the best we can find during the off season and build up. The Falcons have done almost their best considering that injuries are a fact of life in the NFL.
By GeorgiaFan
January 3, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this
Game for sure!
By Donald live from Arizona
January 3, 2009 7:08 PM | Link to this
Hello folks, I’m reporting live from Phoenix where not only are the Falcons just a stepping stone, but Atlanta is known best for their casinos in Atlantic City! Where you guys from again? Oh that’s right, who cares! West coast is the best coast… and the only coast for that matter.
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 7:08 PM | Link to this
the o-line is getting out matched…this is not good
By The Original(and no longer) Falcon4Life
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
All of the so-called diehard fans are already offering up their excuses (eulogies) for Matty Ice and the Falcons…they’re actually playing Vanilla Ice’s ICE ICE BABY….LMAO!!!!! A perfect selection….a fraud of a rapper for a fraud of a QB.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
OK, that safety was entirely on Ryan. There’s no excuse for that.
Looks like I’ll be losing money today.
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
As a fan of all Atlanta teams and the Bulldogs…I’m so SICK OF HEARING HOW WE CAN’T WAIT FOR NEXT YEAR that’s all we can talk about every damn year.
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
As a fan of all Atlanta teams and the Bulldogs…I’m so SICK OF HEARING HOW WE CAN’T WAIT FOR NEXT YEAR that’s all we can talk about every damn year.
By Braindawg
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
That may do it, safety, wow! But i think the call was right, to keep Ryan safe.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT
INTELLIGENT THINKER
READS DEFENSES
DROP BACK PASSER
SURE HALL OF FAMER
———CHECK THIS OUT———-
WAS HE READING THE DEFENSE ON THAT SAFETY :)
——HE BLEW THIS GAME———
….1 & DONE (FIRST TIME EVER) FOR FALCONS IN THE PLAYOFFS……
BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
Can someone tell me why the holding penalty wasn’t assessed on the punt return before the safety? Didnt they call a hold on AZ…so why was the ball at the 3 yd line?
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
Still only two touchdowns down. Safety hurt Turner was wide open Ryan should have thrown it earlier. He will learn from all this.
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
As a fan of all Atlanta teams and the Bulldogs…I’m so SICK OF HEARING HOW WE CAN’T WAIT FOR NEXT YEAR that’s all we can talk about every damn year.
By Stephen
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
The whistle had not blown, therefore Ryan completes a pass…no wait!!! its a safety after all. we cant allow you to make a good play
By james
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
Why all of sudden it’s everyone fault when Ryan screws up. The Defense is not holding (Baker is), Turner is running and not hitting holes. There have been three turn overs and now a safety. Who’s to blame? — Steak Shapiro for selling ya’ll on this guy!!! Blank still drawing blanks.
By FalconFan
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
THERE IS NO IN THE GRASS REF!!! Jeff did you hear the whistle blow??
By Worried
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
A SAFETY? Ryan, you can borrow a pink tu tu from the offensive line. Stupid, stupid mistake, Rook.
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this
That safety may have just been the nail in the coffin :-(. But I still say, this has been an AWESOME season.
By Forrest Gump
January 3, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this
I hope we don’ever have another playoff game on NBC.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this
I really thought we would lose today since it was on the road and the Falcons suck on the road. It is two different teams—home vs road.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this
It’s easy to be negative at a time like this. Look at VS2 for an example of how easy it is. So first let’s just say for the record, they got further than anyone ever thought they could.
I didn’t expect to dominate the Cards, but I surely didn’t expect the defense and the offense to be exposed so thoroughly by the arizona cardinals? wow. Either the past 16 games where they showed some heart were a fluke, or this game is.
Did we just get an in the grasp safety? In the playoffs? Wow. But I did say no more complaining about the zebras. We lost this game fair and square.
Are we seeing a Mike Smith team lose it’s collective composure, even though we are only down two scores with a whole quarter to play? .
By Kyle
January 3, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this
The fact that a 9-7 team hosts a 11-5 team is a joke. The crowd noise is determining the outcome of this game. Arizona doesn’t deserve to host this game. What a complete joke.
By Jeff Schultz
January 3, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this
Like I said, it’s a simple game. You block, you tackle. Falcons getting killed up front this game. This is the OL that I think most of us expected to see this season, and things aren’t much better on the other side of the ball, esp. with Abe ailing. But I’ll say this —- Arizona is much better than I expected.
By Jon
January 3, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this
Can you please keep your college comments to yourself? This is the big leagues. Thank you.
By B4REAL
January 3, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this
Anybody else think that Matt Ryan’s carreer may have peaked? …just sayin…lolol
By crazygrocer
January 3, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this
Birds need a turnover.
By HJ
January 3, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this
I said this before the playoffs even started. Matt Ryan has had a great rookie season, but the Falcons as a whole have been overachievers. I didn’t think their record was a true indicator of the team’s talent and true measure of how good or bad this team is. A great season to build upon, but I see no swagger with this team. My biggest fear is that they will settle for winning seasons and not look to make the personnel moves that will take them to the next level or ultimate level, the Super Bowl.
By slim
January 3, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this
I didn’t mind the long bomb call, but like they said: Matt held it too long.
Win or lose, he’s had some stretches of brilliance, as well as some bad rookie-era Peyton Manning type mistakes.
Next year and the year after, we’ll have less of the rookie mistakes, more of the good stuff. No reason for Falcon fans to be down about the future.
Still time to win, but it’s not going to be easy…
By Anderson
January 3, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this
The Falcons are just getting beat!! Plain and Simple. It is not the referees.
Also, Collinsworth is calling it the way it is. Sometimes the truth hurts.
That fumble by Michael Turner was DEFINITELY the turning point of the game. Damn!!
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this
OKAY…I AM ABOUTS TO GO IN FOR MY CONJUGAL VISIT WITH MIKE…I KNOW, HE HAS HAD A LONG DAY ON THE RECEIVING END OF THINGS, BUT THIS IS WHERE I COME IN….I GET TO BE THE RECEIVER FOR MV….I HAVE HAVE BEEN BLOWIN’ HIM ALL DAY ON THIS HEAR BLOG, BUT NOW I GETS TO GO GET IT FO’ REAL….I NEEDS THE BENJAMINS THAT I GET FOR BEIN’ MV’S BEEEYOTCH SO I CAN BUY SOME CRACK AND WISH MY WAY OUT OF REALITY
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this
Welp……we now know who the better QB is…….
Vick = playoff wins Ryan = holding the ball, taking sacks, throwin ints. EXPECTED. He’s a rookie… what did u falcons fans expect? U thought he was Brady, Montana…….NOPE!! Say what u want about Vick, but he won
By T
January 3, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this
How disappointing. Yeah, i’m very proud of the Falcons play this year, but today was very bad. I hope they learn from this because the defense was horrible. Offense had one good qtr and the rest was very bad. We looked like a rookie team that had no idea what the playoffs would be like.Officials didn’t help, but we just did not play well at all…
Learn from it and be ready next time Falcons players and coaches.
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this
Time to play lights out, Jenkins, Roddy, Norwood, Finneran…..Lets GO !!!
By Beeker
January 3, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe this crap! I think we need to draft another QB next year. Vanilla Ice obviously isn’t the man for the job. I’m so dissapointed right now.
By The Original(and no longer) Falcon4Life
January 3, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this
WTF!!!! He took a safety in the end zone? I thought you guys said he was infinitely “SMARTER” than that? Ah well, I guess it’s okay if he’s a dumb @ss just so long as he isn’t a dumb @ss like Vick…LMAO!!!
By TEAMPLAYER
January 3, 2009 7:16 PM | Link to this
All you “fair weather” fans…..Give me a break
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:16 PM | Link to this
SO MY PREDICTION WAS WRONG
——-I PREDICTED———-
CARDINALS…..45
FALCONS…..10
———BUT A WIN IS A WIN :)———
BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST
By MACK-DIME OF THE ATL
January 3, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this
COME ON BIRDS LETS GET THIS PUNT RETURN FOR A TD AND WIN THIS D@MN GAME!
By La Jolla Dawg
January 3, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this
Come on Falcons!!!!!
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 7:18 PM | Link to this
we need the Matt Ryan that beat Va Tech the 1st time in his sr. year to show up now…not much time left…need some quick TDs and defense to hold up…
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this
Do or die time Falcons! Really need a quick score! Of course, we’ve shown nothing in the last 20 minutes to show we’re capable but hey, this is the Cardinals defense we’re talking about. Sure, they’ve played a really strong game but let’s go Birds!
By Navigator
January 3, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this
I don’t know why we have a large discussion: can’t block, can’t tackle, can’t put pressure on Cardinals QB. Any way you look at it, you LOSE!! We’ve all known the Falcons weaknesses, but it seems the Cardinals have found a way to expose all at once. On the two yard line, you run a hot route, not a long pass (bad call), and the Falcons should have been taking some penalties for hitting the QB. The whole league knows Warner gets rattled if you continue to hit him. This is high school, nobody cares about good sportsmanship, sometimes you’ve got to be nasty.
By Falcons Rule
January 3, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this
Welp, that’s game! We gave it a shot, but I guess we’re not the better team. I’m going to go listen to my vanilla ice CD’s now. See ya!
By Dane
January 3, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this
Sure could use Glen Dorsey today!!!!
By Will
January 3, 2009 7:20 PM | Link to this
I’d like them to use Norwood the rest of the way. He’s more explosive against this defense. Turner is too slow while trying to run to the outside.
By dandydawg
January 3, 2009 7:20 PM | Link to this
Well I have quite watching. I can’t take it for the first time, I am really nervous. By the what I am reading on this blog…..the game is over.
By JuniorMiller
January 3, 2009 7:21 PM | Link to this
Look, the Falcons have been playing playoff games for the past three weeks or so. The roto-grinder that was this year’s NFC South appears to have taken its toll. They’re just spent. Now with the short week, it has caught up.
By jt
January 3, 2009 7:21 PM | Link to this
Too many turnovers. Great season non the less.
By obxdawg
January 3, 2009 7:22 PM | Link to this
Hey Vick supporter 2 I have been watching this blog all afternoon. Let me guess—-You’re a black man and that’s why you don’t like Ryan. Dude is only a rookie. He is light years ahead of Vick in his 1st season. Give it a rest!!
By jeanE
January 3, 2009 7:22 PM | Link to this
Once I get over my angry frustration, I have to give all the credit in the world to the Cardinals, I am a big Kurt Warner fan & Matt Ryan could take a big time lesson from him today! Too bad Larry Fitzgerald is a girlfriend beater…otherwise, I like these Cardinals & would route for them. As for the Falcons, great season but very bad ending! We really weren’t even that competitive, once you shut down our run, we are just toast. This is it, 4th down, great run by Jerious! Too bad we didn’t use him more this game, Turner was completely ineffective. Looking forward to next year, let’s get some Defensive studs & 0-line depth. Tight end, too! Love those Falcons, thanks for a winning season, more than I thought we’d ever have this year.
By Number1 Falcons Fan for life
January 3, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan is a joke. What good is a QB if he can’t step it up when it counts. Worst draft pick EVER. Way to waste the season. We need to start looking elsewhere if we ever want to make it to the superbowl.
By RB
January 3, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this
As good as Ryan is the flaw to his game is the accurate deep ball. It plagued him in college and it will be the same as a pro. Defenses will be able to stack the line. This is no excuse for Turner, he has just played small all day.
By dandydawg
January 3, 2009 7:24 PM | Link to this
Vick Supporter….
Where were you when Vick for fighting dogs? Give us all a break, PLEASE. Just hope the Falcons do GOOD! PLEASE!
By Braindawg
January 3, 2009 7:24 PM | Link to this
No matter what im proud of my Falcons. Fight til the end, dont give up, play til the final whistle. We’ve surpassed my expectations this year, and I for one am happy with the way we responded after last season. We’ll build on this season and put together back to back winning seasons for the first time in out history!Go you hairy Falcons!!!!
By BravesAreDone
January 3, 2009 7:25 PM | Link to this
It’s not over yet my friends…not yet.
By slim
January 3, 2009 7:26 PM | Link to this
Not sure what the heck collinsworth was thinking when he said Falcons maybe should NOT have gone for the 4th and 6.
Falcons HAD to go for it. Good call whether you get the first or not.
By Tommy Nobis
January 3, 2009 7:26 PM | Link to this
NEED SOME FREAKING LINEBACKERS….
By Flafalcon
January 3, 2009 7:26 PM | Link to this
Could we do this? Is it possible? Would be a great game if we did.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 7:27 PM | Link to this
Like I’ve always said……. No Vick = No Playoff wins Ryan = playoff losses
Say what u want about Vick, but the Falcons always advanced. “Ice” has the ability to get it done, but he’s not the qb Vick is. F the numbers. Vick won games. As it has been prove TODAY…..numbers don’t mean anything. Vick 09.
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 7:27 PM | Link to this
What did I tell you…Norwood gave us life on 4th down and we got our quick score! C’mon Defense, ABE WE NEED YOU NOW!!!!!!!
By Jeremy
January 3, 2009 7:27 PM | Link to this
Are you sure you guys belong in the NFL? The Falcons are the laughing stock of the country. Watch how Arizona gets man handled next week, mmmk? Losing the scrub game of the playoffs is a pretty big slap in the face.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this
Like I’ve always said……. No Vick = No Playoff wins Ryan = playoff losses
Say what u want about Vick, but the Falcons always advanced. “Ice” has the ability to get it done, but he’s not the qb Vick is. F the numbers. Vick won games. As it has been prove TODAY…..numbers don’t mean anything. Vick 09.
By The Turk
January 3, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this
OBXDAWG: Don’t you understand, Vick Supporter 2 is a product of hate preached to him since he was a child. Don’t bother him, he can’t help himself.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this
F### OFF, YOU FAKE FANS!!!!
NICE DRIVE MATT & CO.!!
By CrystalChandellier
January 3, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this
These Falcons remind me a lot of the squad that Dan Reeves had rolling in the good days. Maybe this Atlanta team has captured some of that old Dome magic to carry on for years to come.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this
That was a very nicely orchestrated drive with good play calling. Arizona doesn’t run the ball that well, so it’s likely the Falcons get the ball back with some time left.
By Wawtawsha
January 3, 2009 7:29 PM | Link to this
Stop em one time, an we can Kill……Game Time !!!
By MonkeyMan
January 3, 2009 7:29 PM | Link to this
okay! We need a stop! Then we have a chance! Believe!
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 7:30 PM | Link to this
Another missed receiver. I got to say, everyone who said the rook was good enough to do it on his own, was pretty much wrong. But he doesn’t get to take the blame all by his lonesome.
The coaches threw one screen pass for 30 yards to Norwood. That’s the story of this game. Instead of beating the Cardinals outside, we chose to try to pound it inside. Instead of switching speeds, we chose to stay the course. If we ultimately lose this game, (and since we just scored, that is still very much in doubt.), that will be the single most glaring factor. No creativity on offense. Ryan will get picked on the most, but coaching was the biggest liability today.
I got to say this was one of the worst officiated games I have seen in a long time. It’s not just the missed calls both ways, it’s the total inconsistency of the calls they did make. How do you stop the play sometimes when the defense jumps offsides, but other times, like when we have a wide open receiver, they stop the play, but even then they stop it late as hell, so the QB can;t figure out if they are even going to call the penalty or not.? And if that confused you, then you now feel how I feel. The in the grasp safety call made up for the missed holding call so I am official on the zebra’s backsides again.
By RB
January 3, 2009 7:31 PM | Link to this
I’M STILL WAITING ON BROOKING TO MAKE A PLAY.WE NEED A GOOD, FAST LINEBACKER TO TAKE HIS PLACE.
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 7:31 PM | Link to this
We lost today because of our crappy defense secondary!!!!!!!!!!!
By dandydawg
January 3, 2009 7:32 PM | Link to this
Vick Sup… What do you mean Vick always got it done? I don’t remember Vick playing defense and I damn sure don’t remember the Falcons winning any superbowls while Vick was here. So help me understand your hatre of the Falcon’s rookie quarterback.
By Cardinals
January 3, 2009 7:32 PM | Link to this
I would like to personaly invite all of you Falcon fans to join the Cardinals bandwagon after this game! We welcome you to cheer us on next week! We already know we’re the worst team going into the playoffs, so we need all the extra help we can get! Everyone say it with me… GO CARDINALS! Doesn’t it feel good to back a winning team? Who’s with me???
By Indifferent
January 3, 2009 7:33 PM | Link to this
Why hasn’t anyone gotten on Abraham for not showing up today. What has he done? Jack squat….1 friggin tackle. Thoroughly dominated.
By Braindawg
January 3, 2009 7:33 PM | Link to this
We’re still in it, got a chance. What a refreshing team this is. Thank you Falcons!
By Nan
January 3, 2009 7:34 PM | Link to this
I think I agree now…time to cut Brooking loose
By Jared
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
And Keith Brooking just cost the Falcons their season. Thanks for at least being consistent Keith.
By FalconFan
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
BROOKING A HAS TO BE OUT OF HERE AFTER THIS SEASON**
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
AS I SAID. That f-ing secondary. Absolutely pitiful to allow that 1st down. GAME OVER.
By Bobby
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
The only thing worse than playing in the weakest game of the playoffs, is losing in the weakest game of the playoffs! I go into giggle fits when Atlanta has the ball. hehehehehe
By TURTSNAP
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
I hope Brooking is finally gone after this season. HE SUCKS…. HE SUCKS…… HE SUCKS…… HE SUCKS……HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS…….. HE SUCKS…….. HE SUCKS……… HE SUCKS…….. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS………. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS!!!!!!!!!
By JB
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
CUT BROOKING! HE SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By dave
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
How can you leave anyone uncovered to convert on 3rd&22???
By 619SDBOLTS
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
Its over Atlanta fans. Turn out the lights. You guys had a great season though. Ryan is an outstanding rookie. emphasis on rookie. hell bounce back next year.
By Will
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
Why didn’t the Falcons play dime on the 3rd and 16. Dumb…Dumb….Dumb….
By falcon's jacket
January 3, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this
Time for Brooking to go. Good season, though
By dandydawg
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Card fan….
GO TO H3ll!
By mitch
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
keith brooking
By HJ
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
So you get rid of Crumpler and Dunn, the heart of the team and you keep Keith Brooking who’s well beyond his prime.
I think that’s why some Falcons fans found the personnel moves questionable after last season.
By dave
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
How can you leave anyone uncovered to convert on 3rd&22???
By Bye Bye Keith
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
And that’s Keith Brooking’s job right there. Adios Brooking!
By buddy
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Can we please cut that sorry @ss brooking now!!!
By MACK-DIME OF THE ATL
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING IS A IDIOT! AGGHHHHH
By Mr C.
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking. That was his last game as a Falcon
By Indifferent
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Blame Ryan all you want but that kid kept the Falcons in the game when POS Abraham didn’t show up…ONE friggin tackle. 3 and 16 and Brooking is picking his arse. Terrible defense on that 3 and 16…terrible. If they stop them there…Ryan has a chance to drive and win the game.
By Joshua
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Wow….the TE wide open. This Defense sucks and the secondary is even worse. This Defense couldn’t cover my Grandmother with a blanket.
By foxdog
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Brooking just choked!!!!!!
By oldbird
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Wow. I thought this season was a gift and this game was a given. I am still grateful for the season, but dang, to go down to this crappy team in flames? I swear they look like the bulldogs, reading press clippings and such. I never would have thought they could put forth such a putrid effort. But hey, we are still way ahead of where any of us thought we would be, and 2009 looks good for us. This still hurts, to lose to an obviously inferior team.
By VICK SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
DEAR ART BLANK
———EXPERIMENT FAILED———
JANUARY 20, 2009
——-MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION :)———-
BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-BUST—-
By igotxx3
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
omg why would you jump up if they do run it not like they gonna pick up a first smh keith brookin supose to be a vet
By igotxx3
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
omg why would you jump up if they do run it not like they gonna pick up a first smh keith brookin supose to be a vet
By T-Town Dawg
January 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this
Vicks Jockstrap, you keep saying that Vick just won and advanced. How many Super Bowls did he advance to? He never won the big game either. He did win a playoff game or two, but he never finished. He is still not a better qb than Ryan. Ryan did not lose this game today. He did make a few rookie mistakes, but this was a total team effort in losing today. You are a bitter black man who will not give credit to a better qb just because he is white.
By FalFan
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Going into the off season, they Admin needs to start looking for line backers, and linemen (offense/defense). It’s sad to see the season come down to this. Bad coaching, bad preparation, bad playing. The Cardinals simply out coached and out played the Falcons, and a toast to hard play.
By TD Time
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Well TD I think it is very clear now what you need to do this off-season. We have an offensive line that might not start anywhere else in the NFL. Our defense is ridiculous at best. Keep Lofton scrap the rest. Please force Milloy and Brooking to retire PLEASE. No pressure all day, no forced turnovers. We did the best with what we had. Good Job TD and Coach Smith
By Joshua
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Wow….the TE wide open. This Defense sucks and the secondary is even worse. This Defense couldn’t cover my Grandmother with a blanket.
By T-Rock
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Brooking…what an embarrassment!
By T
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
What the hell are you doing Brooking? 3rd and 16 and you are leaving a TE to bite on a 40 year old qb you think might run, but instead your man is wide open for the game clinching play!
Congrats KB you just secured your role as a backup in ‘09 or not on this team at all. Your play along with this defense was deplorable today.
By Trav
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
LET BROOKING GO!!!! GET RID OF BROOKING!!!!
By Joshua
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Wow….the TE wide open. This Defense sucks and the secondary is even worse. This Defense couldn’t cover my Grandmother with a blanket.
By welikebaseball2
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Any Brooking apologists want to make excuses for him now? I’ve said it before & I’ll say it again Keith Brooking is a liability in pass coverage.
By Jerome
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
Way to go Brooking!!!!!
By mike
January 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this
brooking has to go
By Booking stinks
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
Cut him on Monday! What a joke. A vet like that was owned all game long. Gt and Brooking………..choke artists.
By Exodus Mentality
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
I cannot believe this. I have to change my tune that quickly. KEITH BROOKING JUST LOST THIS GAME. Nothing left but the victory formation. How in the world does he let the tight end just waltz up the middle of the field completely unattended like that?
That’s the lasting legacy of Brooking, here in my mind. This last year was absolutely horrible, i don’t care how may tackles you made 7-15 yards downfield.
Congrats to the team for a good year. This one should eat at some of you for the next few months. Come back next year with some fire in your bellies.
I won’t miss some of you, but I’ll see you all right hear after the first preseason game in 2009.
By Max
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
WHAT THE HELL WERE TH LINEBACKERS DOING???????????????????? 3RD AND 16 DIMITIROFF BETTER GET SOME BIG DEFENSIVE PLAYERS
By CDS
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
Brooking’s done. Playing the underneath route on 3rd and long. Terrible.
This was still a good season. We really need to work on the defense in the offseason.
By Steve
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
Welp, that’s all she wrote. Now you can go back to eating your chicken or whatever the heck you losers do down in the South.
By Sam
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking has to go. He’s gotten old AND STupid!
By Tom K - upstate NY
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
3rd and 16 and we choked :-(. Great season Birds but I would have liked to have seen Matt have one final chance.
By falconator
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
thanks Keith for screwing up the post season. you need to be traded
By DieHardFalcon
January 3, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking is grossly overpaid and totally USELESS!!! This guy is so overpaid. He absolutely sucks. He is the outside linebacker and has the responsibility of the tight end on his side. Instead, the idiot lets him drift wide open. BROOKING MUST GO! One more: LAWYER MILLOY MUST GO!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Co-sign Collinsworth… horrible mental mistake by Keith Brooking and Curtis Lofton.
Wonder where crabapple joe is… probably calling Collinsworth a racist right about now for criticizing #56.
By MACK-DIME OF THE ATL
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING IS A IDIOT! AGGHHHHH
By QDT
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
This Sucks Again. More than expected, but it still sucks. Keith Brooking has to go
By Kill Brooking
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Brooking is a freaking idiot…Please get rid of this over rated over the hill IDIOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Disgusted
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Oh—My—God. What a disgusting POS.
If Brian Van Gorder were still alive, that 3rd down abortion could never have happened.
Brookings? Gone. Milloy? Gone. Abraham? Gone.
And it’s not just the players. How can so many Falcons COACHES just NOT SHOW UP for a playoff game?
By jay
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
The last play showed I believe one of the worse games that Keith Brooking played. Missed at least 10 tackles, and made a bone head playing the back at 5 yards and let the tight end get the first end.
By The Hitman
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Hopefully that will be the last time we have to watch Keith Brooking make an another devastatingly bad play. He SUCKS!!
By Kyle
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Well, they are all fired!!!! They suck! They SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK<>>> 3rd and 16 and we let them convert. WOW> I think Detroit would have done better! WOW
By Kyle
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Well, they are all fired!!!! They suck! They SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK SUCK<>>> 3rd and 16 and we let them convert. WOW> I think Detroit would have done better! WOW
By Dave
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Oh well, we lost this one. How about back to back playoff seasons! Can it happen?
By Mac
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Mistakes on both sides of the ball killed the Falcons………….crucial mistakes
By jimmyingainesville
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
SAME OLD FALCONS … LOSERS. HOW IN THE WORLD DID VAN GORDER MAKE SUCH A CALL ON THIRD AND 16 … HE HUNG AROUND WILLIE MARTINEZ TOO LONG. IT’S TOUGH BEING A FALCON FAN … I CAN’T BELIEVE THEY GAVE IT AWAY …. RUN…RUN…RUN..RUN..RUN… 2.3 YARDS A RUN. CRAZY…ABSOLUTELY CRAZY. TERRIBLE DAY … TERRIBLE LOSS … TERRIBLE COACHING AND TACKLING.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Go home falcons. You’re nothing. I guess Matty didn’t have any “Ice” left,lol. Like I’ve always said…..No Vick = no playoff wins. Ryan has talent, but ON THE FIELD, he is no Michael Vick. So sad……
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By bocabrave
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
same old falcons…
By David
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
Thanks Brooking.I’ve been watching you all season and you’re either too late,too slow, or blocked straight out of the picture.Hopefully your a$$ is gone because I think the only reason they kept you was because you were the only thing available with the cap room they had left.You suck!
By 56Hater
January 3, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t give that S@#$$B a ride home. 3rd and 16 to keep your chances alive and you bite like a rookie. Choker!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By DanDawg
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
Well, as any one that watched could tell. Keith Brooking is overrated and needs to retire. I will blame Van Gorder for not blitzing anyone on the last series. Kurt Warner with time appeared to be the QB of old when he romped the Birds with the Rams. We have to want to win!
By Supaman81
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!
What happened to MATTY ICE???
By Thanks Arizonia
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
Way to go Arizona… maybe next time Falcons LOL…. ooopz
By 9 in the box
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
Next Week… Cards: 3, Panthers 71. HAHAHHAHaHHaHaHHHA! GOOD LUCK WARNER!
By Will You See
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
Most Overrated QB ever….Brooking…. Needs to go…wash up no good…. lets guard a 8 yard run!
By Let's Go Falcons
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
Get Brooking out of Atlanta!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By disappointed
January 3, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this
Honestly this was the worst called game by the coaches. The only success we had on defense was when we pressured, so why didn’t we pressure on 3 and 16??? That was a horrible call, and an even worse play by Brooking; why was the safeties dropping past the first down marker. Totally disappointed with the calls on both sides of the ball.
By Kill Brooking
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
Brooking is a freaking idiot…Please get rid of this over rated over the hill IDIOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By biggerthanbigdawg
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
I hate to say it but I think #56 just played his last game as a Falcon. It is not like he is not a salty veteran time to take the helmet off and put the coaching whistle on. Tech folk are suppose to be smart!?!?
By scott
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
What are the Falcons doing??? More mistakes than they have made all year, they just didn’t show up today.
By Jack
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
Now THIS is what the typical Falcons would/ did do. Terrible game!
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
ok. so were do we begin for the off season? Who stays, who goes? I guess this is karmic payback for the Minn game…we beat ourselves more than anything.
By jay
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
The last play showed I believe one of the worse games that Keith Brooking played. Missed at least 10 tackles, and made a bone head playing the back at 5 yards and let the tight end get the first end.
By The Hitman
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
Hopefully that will be the last time we have to watch Keith Brooking make an another devastatingly bad play. He SUCKS!!
By jay
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
The last play showed I believe one of the worse games that Keith Brooking played. Missed at least 10 tackles, and made a bone head playing the back at 5 yards and let the tight end get the first end.
By Al
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
Keith brooking has to be on Arizon’s payroll High School linebackers are smarter than Brooking saw him make multiple mistakes that a Veteran lineback should never make Cut him in the morning Mike
By mt783
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
What the hell was Brooking doing?? That was a dumbass play that cost us the game!! LET BROOKING GO!!!!!!!!!!
By Mr Real
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
The officials won. Enough said.
By Missed Assignment!!!!
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
What was Brooking thinking about. Tried to cheat up to compensate for lack of speed. That was Lofton’s back. Let him handle that. The TE was Kieth’s sole responsibility!!!!!!!
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By disappointed
January 3, 2009 7:42 PM | Link to this
Honestly this was the worst called game by the coaches. The only success we had on defense was when we pressured, so why didn’t we pressure on 3 and 16??? That was a horrible call, and an even worse play by Brooking; why was the safeties dropping past the first down marker. Totally disappointed with the calls on both sides of the ball.
By woodie
January 3, 2009 7:42 PM | Link to this
Great season Falcons !!! The future is looking bright with Ryan and Turner. We just need a few pieces and we’ll be back playing for the big prize.
By Mike
January 3, 2009 7:42 PM | Link to this
The same problem in every game - Brooking at middle linebacker. He’s too slow, too overrated and too old to being playing in the NFL. Time to hang it up, Brooking - you cost your team the chance to make a final run at the Cardinals today. I bet the Cardinals knew you would be fooled (yet once again) with the tight end going vertical down the field. Thanks, Brooking - way to keep your head in the game!
By The Hitman
January 3, 2009 7:42 PM | Link to this
Hopefully that will be the last time we have to watch Keith Brooking make an another devastatingly bad play. He SUCKS!!
By Indifferent
January 3, 2009 7:42 PM | Link to this
The Falcons need to draft BJ Raji, DT from Boston College and also get some secondary and linebacker help. This upcoming draft should be ALL ABOUT drafting defensive players. The Falcons are just fine on offense.
Dimitroff - PLEASE draft Raji and get some lineback and DB help.
By Zack
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking… please retire u pos
By TampaGator
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
I watched Keith Brooking NOT make plays all year when it counted most. It is poetic justice that he made the most idiotic play any LB could make when the game was one the line…very typical Keith Brooking play. My gosh, I hope he has played his last game for the Falcons. Any LB is better than Keith Brooking…please!
By Thomas
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
That’s a nice heady play by our defensive ‘leader’ Brooking. Way to bite on the garbage play fake on 3rd and 16. I don’t want to be ‘sports guy’, but that was an absolutely pitiful play on his part.
By RYAN SUPPORTER 2
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
WOULD HAVE LOVED TO SEE RYAN AND THE OFFENSE HAVE ANOTHER SHOT
OH WELL, DEFENSE NEEDS AN UPGRADE, AND OFFENSE WILL ONLY GET BETTER.
NOT BAD FOR ROOKIE YEAR, YOU DUMBA$$ES SHOULD CHECK OUT PEYTON’S FIRST YEAR
BOTTOM-LINE:
STILL BETTER AND MORE CLASS THAN VICK
HOPEFULLY WE CAN GET SOME GOOD TRADE VALUE FOR THAT 130-MILLION DOLLAR BUST!!!
By jason
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
Seriously? “Playoffs, playoffs, are you kidding me…playoffs?” (famous quote)—
We picked a good time to play like crap. What kind of coverage were we in today? What was Brooking thinking running up on that last play, resulting in a first down on 3rd and long? Where was our pass protection today? Turner was second in rushing this year—seriously (didn’t notice)?
Don’t give me this crap about our season last year and our rookie qb—it’s playoff time—and time to step it up. We got beat by a mediocre team—after we beat better opponents throughout the season. It was horrendous to watch and will be even more horrendous to read about it on the internet.
People will say, “Well, look at the turnaround this season..yadda yadda yadda.” Like Terrence Moore said—it’s about the playoffs.
Ridiculous!
By bocabrave
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
same old falcons…
By CDS
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
Brooking’s done. Playing the underneath route on 3rd and long. Terrible.
This was still a good season. We really need to work on the defense in the offseason.
By FalconFanz
January 3, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this
Well, defense was bad, offense was mediocre at best and we still almost pulled it off. Arizona is not a good team. The Panthers will annihilate them. I am so proud of the Falcons and what they accomplished this year. We should have beat this team but our defense let us down. Hopefully next year will be the one!
By TURTSNAP
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
I hope Brooking is finally gone after this season. HE SUCKS…. HE SUCKS…… HE SUCKS…… HE SUCKS……HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS…….. HE SUCKS…….. HE SUCKS……… HE SUCKS…….. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS………. HE SUCKS……. HE SUCKS!!!!!!!!!
By mt783
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
What the hell was Brooking doing?? That was a dumbass play that cost us the game!! LET BROOKING GO!!!!!!!!!!
By This stinks!
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
The Cardinals are not a good team. How did the Birds lose this one? Self destructed. The Cards won nine games because they play in the worst division in the NFL. Six easy wins. The Cards would have likely been 0-6 if they were in the NFC South. Carolina will crush them in they meet next week. This game is a huge disappointment. No way this game should have been lost.
By woodie
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
Great season Falcons !!! The future is looking bright with Ryan and Turner. We just need a few pieces and we’ll be back playing for the big prize.
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By tkitchens
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING SUCKS CUT HIM TOMORROW
By roger
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
Draft a defensive tackle, inside linebacker, and a cornerback in first 3 rounds. Either that or address in free agency and the Falcons will be fine next year. And you Vick supporters, give it up, Vick couldn’t hold Ryan’s jockstrap as a leader and QB. He showed that, and that is why he is in prison. And when he gets out, he will be no better than a scat back in NFL.
By ed
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
Brooking, what in the hell are you doing!!!! Lofton had the underneath coverage. Which one is the rookie, Brooking or Lofton. The falcons has to put their best coverage linebacker in the game during this time (Boley)
By stendec
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
Keith “Dumb As Dirt” Brooking can go straight to Hell! This guy is a mother (X) oxygen waste. Everything on the line and he is 15 yards out of position. 15 yards! They should cut this untalented son of a betch now. Vicksupporter was right about Matt Ryan. Choke artist. Of course good old Roddy “Another Drop” White did not endear himself to any damn body! Cards will get blown out next week. They were weakest team Falcons could have faced in post season. Everyone sees how that damn went!
By DanDawg
January 3, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this
Well, as any one that watched could tell. Keith Brooking is overrated and needs to retire. I will blame Van Gorder for not blitzing anyone on the last series. Kurt Warner with time appeared to be the QB of old when he romped the Birds with the Rams. We have to want to win!
By Mr Real
January 3, 2009 7:45 PM | Link to this
Falcons fans have been bashing Brooking for years. Today was just another example why.
By TrueFan
January 3, 2009 7:45 PM | Link to this
Please! Did you Falcon fans really expect a different result? “This is our year!” “We’re a different team!” The Marietta paper even put a poll out about how many expected the Falcons to win the Super Bowl. Please! Please! Different team then 1981, same result! Jeff Schultz, how does the laughter feel now? HAhaHAha HA lol
By DallasTerry
January 3, 2009 7:45 PM | Link to this
I just watched this game from texas. I has seen AZ play when they beat the C-boyss early in the season. I had not seen much of ATL. I did hear a lot of talk how they would kill AZ b/c of the AZ bad division they won. After watching AZ is clealry the better team and ATL did not belong in the playoffs. They are closer to what they did last year at 4-12 than a true 11-5 team. It is obvious ATL was just lucky this year and had the refs on their side all year. The refs tried to control this one too but AZ overcame. How can a defense have only 14 penaltiies called against it all year? That is a total shaw. Any team would win 11 games if they never had any penalties called against them. Thats just so bogus.
And they are lucky in other ways. Only 49 punt ret yards against them all year. Way out of whack to the point its unbelievable. They only thing so crazy I have ever heard of is the 14 penalties all year against the defense.
The league obviously felt sorry for ATL b/c of how they got screwed by Vick and were out to do the Falcons favors. But today we could see they are pretenders and their game is BS
By MM69
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope this is the last we have to see of Brooking in a Falcon uniform!!!! You Suck!
By roger
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
Great year Falcons!! Atlanta is still proud of you guys and can’t wait till next year!
By Sam
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
Brooking has to go. let Stephen Nichols go. Abraham played hurt but he can’t win without help on D. Get rid of Jamaal Anderson and get Abraham some help.
By Sly Ty
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
I am proud of the Falcons and their season. There were many plays that caused the game to change, but a veteran player should not make unintelligent plays at this level and this point of their careers. I have loved Keith Brooking throughout his career at Georgia Tech, and Especially with the Falcons. However, if he isn’t smart enough to be aware of the situation at this point in his career, he isn’t worth 6 million dollars for next season. Just as Warrick Dunn was let go, so must Keith Brookings. I actually feel like crying saying that, but it is what it is.
By Champ
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
Vick supporter, you’re just a black a*******wipe.
Your boy Vick is having a great time with guys like you in prison right about now!
By Mitch
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
Well, for all of the people trashing individuals don’t forget this is a team game. The game should have never come down to a 3rd and 16 play. Turnovers killed us today. We lost the turnover battle, and and that lost the game.
By The Hitman
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
Hopefully that will be the last time we have to watch Keith Brooking make an another devastatingly bad play. He SUCKS!!
By Roland
January 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this
GET RID OF KEITH BROOKING NOW!!!!!!! UNBELIEVABLE!!!!! WE NEED A SECONDARY, WE NEED ANOTHER PASS RUSHER!!! WE NEED A LINEBACKER, STUPID KEITH BROOKING!!!
BUT DAMN GOOD SEASON FALCONS!!! MATT RYAN THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL SEASON
HOWEVER, DAN REEVES PLEASE GET RID OF KEITH BROOKING NOW PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!
By Mike
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Thanks to Keith Brooking, Michael Turner and Lawyer Malloy for playing very poorly. They all did their part to give the game away to the Cardinals. Too bad all the great effort by Matt Ryan went to waste! Great job Matt!
By JerseyFalcon
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Great year..coming from last. One step at a time..but the slow step, Mr Brooking..thanks but take care.
By foxdog
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Defense and offensive line will be addessed in the draft….I hope!!
By Keith Brookings #1 fan
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
so he made a couple of mistakes but look at all he has done for the team over the years!
By Al
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Brooking really sucked today missed Tackles and that bone head stupid Play that cost the Falcons a chance to come back High School linebackers play smarter
By Sg
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Well - we know what to work on next season. Need younger DB’s. Baker and Ryan got a taste of what playoff football is all about.
Thanks Keith Brooking for the years. I’ll save you a seat at Taco Mac for next years Falcons season opener.
By william
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
Well just as i thought the real falcons showed up tonight
By michael
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
I just want to say how proud I am that these guys represent my city. You played your hearts out all year - and the only thing I have to be sad about now is having to wait nine more months to see what you do next year.
Go Falcons. You lost a game, but won the hearts of Atlanta. See you in September.
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
56 needs to retire. Thanks Falcons for great season! Only one team will end the season with a win and the Falcons still need some players. The future looks bright.By The Truth Hurts
January 3, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this
The defense gave up 21 points to a pretty good offensive team at home. Not entirely bad, actually. The lapse in judgment by Brooking was a killer, but the momentum shift after the early 2nd half fumble was the real culprit, I think.
This team isn’t that far away from being a Super Bowl contender. Some obvious holes need to be addressed, but the core is already in place. Good season.
I think it would behoove people to simply ignore the 15 year old kids on here who seem to think they’ve carved out a personality on this blog. People that criticize simply b/c that’s what they’re known for and then hiding behind the anonymity of an Internet blog are just dumb. I mean, intellectually dumb. Why stoop?
Okay, nice season. Ahead of schedule. You need a lot of breaks to win a championship and things just might’ve been different if Kasay hadn’t hit that long FG to beat the Saints last week. Onward and upward…
By Mundyman
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
Your weaknesses never come out more than a playoff game. Bad O-line, god awful linebackers (Krap Brooking) and no additional go to receiver. Thomas D. better get to work because next years schedule is HE—.
By RonShields
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
DONT BLAME IT ALL ON KEITH. CURTUS JUMPED ON THE UNDER ROUTE. BOTH ARE STUPID 3 AND 16 WHO THE HELL IS GONIN TO THRO THE BALL DOWN THAT FAR AWAY FORM THE 1ST DOWN. HORRIBLE D BY THE LB AND TERRIBLE TACKLIN. BAD READS BY THE QB OUTSTANDINGLY BAD BLOCKING BY THE OL AND NICE DROPS BY THE WR. TODAY WAS A REAL TEAM EFFORT. TO SUCK
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
56 needs to retire. Thanks Falcons for great season! Only one team will end the season with a win and the Falcons still need some players. The future looks bright.By JerseyFalcon
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
Great year..coming from last. One step at a time..but the slow step, Mr Brooking..thanks but take care.
By Joshua
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
Look people…..Yes Keith Brooking is grossly overrrated and rarely plays the LB as dominate as he use to. But this was a totally defensive meltdown as it has been for the past two months. Rowdy dropped some important passes to him. Matt Ryan has overthrown too many passes the past couple of games ( can someone say ROOKIE WALL)………..but nonetheless it was a very successful season for the Faloons. And they are going to be even better next year. So yes, if we want to go anywhere in the playoffs we need to fix our defense in the off season.
By jimmyingainesville
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
Bye Bye Brookings. You played like a typical yellow jacket. You blew it. A whole season by your bad judgement. Worst coached game I’ve ever seen. Falcons are losers and I hope year in and year out they’ll get there someday … but someday just never seems to come. Hopes up … hopes dashed. Falcon fans are tortured by poor coaching and poor performances… losers will always be losers. It’s been a tough season for dawgs and birds.
By Steve
January 3, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
You lost way before the Brooking play idiots. The refs tried to do everything they could to give this game to Atlanta and they still couldn’t win. I have to say though, this isn’t a surprise as anyone who knows anything about football knew the Cardinals were the better team. Even Vegas put out the ‘ole fashion sucker bet hoping to capitalize on miopic Atlanta fans. Don’t worry though, the Cards suck too and they will be eliminated next week.
By brookingisanass
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
Vick is still a worthless piece of sh&T!!!
Dont blame Ryan, blame the worthless defense and especially Brooking-What an IDIOT!!!!! Falcon defense has sucked all year long and cost them three of their losses!!
By The Truth Hurts
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
The defense gave up 21 points to a pretty good offensive team at home. Not entirely bad, actually. The lapse in judgment by Brooking was a killer, but the momentum shift after the early 2nd half fumble was the real culprit, I think.
This team isn’t that far away from being a Super Bowl contender. Some obvious holes need to be addressed, but the core is already in place. Good season.
I think it would behoove people to simply ignore the 15 year old kids on here who seem to think they’ve carved out a personality on this blog. People that criticize simply b/c that’s what they’re known for and then hiding behind the anonymity of an Internet blog are just dumb. I mean, intellectually dumb. Why stoop?
Okay, nice season. Ahead of schedule. You need a lot of breaks to win a championship and things just might’ve been different if Kasay hadn’t hit that long FG to beat the Saints last week. Onward and upward…
By brewdawg
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
Hey VS,
You disappoint me bro. Your original prediction was No Vick= No playoffs, not No Vick= no playoff wins. I’m no fair weather fan. Props to the Cards. They deserved the win and they got it. Remember Falcons fans, we are young as hell. The future is still bright. I’m devastated right now, but I am a Falcon fan for life. Peace to you all.
By Mike
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
Get rid of Brooking now! He has missed tackles and reads all year long. He can not cover anyone on offense - even a tackle eligible receiver. He is too slow and too old to compete in the NFL. The bloggers have this one right - get rid of Brooking asap and bring in a new leader to run the defense - time to move to the sidelines, Keith.
By toykidd
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
Same ole Falcons, nothing new here. 3rd and 16 and the defense blows it. Brooking is washed up..go the heck away please. Same Falcon curses and will always be. Might as well had been 8 and 8 for the year whats the difference. sorry bunch. dropped frieken passes. just sick of this team. I was going to buy some falcons gear, the heck with that. stick with the UGA stuff.
By dave
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
2012, next winning season. 9-7. same old team. no back to backs.
By VICK WHO???
January 3, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this
Vick Supporter…
You talk like its the falcons fault that Vick is not the QB…HIS A$$ IS IN JAIL WHERE CRIMINALS BELONG!!! Your nothing but a racist who hates on Matt Ryan because he is not black…get the hell out of Atlanta, your ignorance is not wanted.
By 9 in the box
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
Next Week… Cards: 3, Panthers: 71. HAHAHHAHaHHaHaHHHA! GOOD LUCK REHABILITATING, WARNER!
By gdg73
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
Our coaching staff coached like rookies. Especially Van Gorder. Why stop blitzing Warner? Why not use a hard count to slow down that dline? Why not use Norwood in space more on screen passes. Take a look at how San Diego uses Sproles in the screen game. In addition, Keith Brooking sucks. That MF should get cut right after the game. He has been stealin money for five years. Where are all the Brooking apologists now? He proved to everyone that he is way past his prime. Dimitroff, make the decision and get rid of him. You had no trouble cutting Crump, Coleman, and Hall. You could have used all three today. Our pass rush sucks.
By HUGH
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
AS I SAID BEFORE THE GAME—MIKE SMITH ABSOLUTELY CANNOT COACH THE LAST 2 MINUTES OF THE GAME—SAME FLAW BOBBY CREMINS(GA TECH) HAD)—HE JUST LOSES IT—THIS ISN’T HURTFUL—-IT’S FATAL!!
By D Dub formerly of the ATL
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking just cost the Falcons that game. Plain and simple. I understand the defense had issues all day, but blowing a 3rd and 16 by covering the short yardage guy, which wouldn’t have gotten 16 YARDS!
Maybe it’s time for him to retire - push him out like they pushed Jesse Tuggle out back in the day.
By Keith Brookings #1 fan
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
f u guys Keith brookings is a legend and a hall of famer anf you band wagon fans didrespect him like this! shame on all of you
By 9 in the box
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
Next Week… Cards: 3, Panthers: 71. HAHAHHAHaHHaHaHHHA! GOOD LUCK REHABILITATING, WARNER!
By Big John
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
As much misery as us Atlantas have gone through over the years, the Falcons better win a Super Bowl within the next 5 years. You can make excuses this year, but starting next year there will no longer be any excuses for the Falcons. Lets face it, the Falcons are the only hope we have. The Braves are probably going to be the laughing stock of baseball the next few years, the Hawks are good but can’t compete with teams like the Lakers, Celtics, etc, and the Trashers are a joke.
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
56 needs to retire. Thanks Falcons for great season! Only one team will end the season with a win and the Falcons still need some players. The future looks bright.By savannahdawg
January 3, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this
dear mr.blank never ever ever draft a guy from tech please flush that trade school turd brooking out of atl now we have a great future ahead of us we got rid of the mike vick thugs now lets get rid of the oldtimers and keep moving forward i will never drive from savannah and pay to see #56 flush him down and you can have alot of my money gooo dawgs 7-1 over last 8 techies
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
Uh oh………… Here you people go. Anyone who’s debated with me know I’m telling the truth…..I TOLD YOU THAT EDGE WAS GOING TO STEP UP!!!!! I TOLD YOU THAT THE CARDS WEREN’T GOING TO LAY DOWN. Also, its like I’ve said all season……..if you stop Turner…..Ryan can lose the game for you…..I EMPHASISE “CAN”. Matt Ryan can play QB, and maybe he can win a playoff game, *BUT HE’s NO VICK AS A QB. *WINNING is what counts, not passer rating, percentages, etc etc etc. Regardless of what was said about the Great Mike Vick, HE WON. The Cards SHUT DOWN Ryan and dared him to beat them…..HE FAILED!!! Vick’s first year as a starter (pretty much a ROOKIE) PLAYOFF WIN, no excuses. Vick 09.
By cb
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
As teams have been doing all year—-when they have needed plays to keep drives going they have targeted Keith Brooking. He has been a good player for us but his best days are clearly behind him. The Cardinals were clearly perceived to be the worst team in the playoffs but they came to play. Good run this year though. Congrats to the organization for establishing a foundation for sustained success. Draft for DEFENSE! Till next year Falcons” faithful!
By The Truth Hurts
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
The defense gave up 21 points to a pretty good offensive team at home. Not entirely bad, actually. The lapse in judgment by Brooking was a killer, but the momentum shift after the early 2nd half fumble was the real culprit, I think.
This team isn’t that far away from being a Super Bowl contender. Some obvious holes need to be addressed, but the core is already in place. Good season.
I think it would behoove people to simply ignore the 15 year old kids on here who seem to think they’ve carved out a personality on this blog. People that criticize simply b/c that’s what they’re known for and then hiding behind the anonymity of an Internet blog are just dumb. I mean, intellectually dumb. Why stoop?
Okay, nice season. Ahead of schedule. You need a lot of breaks to win a championship and things just might’ve been different if Kasay hadn’t hit that long FG to beat the Saints last week. Onward and upward…
By Mr. Fitzgerald
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
Woohoo!!
By RonShields
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
DONT BLAME IT ALL ON KEITH. CURTUS JUMPED ON THE UNDER ROUTE. BOTH ARE STUPID 3 AND 16 WHO THE HELL IS GONIN TO THRO THE BALL DOWN THAT FAR AWAY FORM THE 1ST DOWN. HORRIBLE D BY THE LB AND TERRIBLE TACKLIN. BAD READS BY THE QB OUTSTANDINGLY BAD BLOCKING BY THE OL AND NICE DROPS BY THE WR. TODAY WAS A REAL TEAM EFFORT. TO SUCK
By Dee
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
All around poorly coached and played game, probably the worst of the year at such a bad time, great season Falcons, but terrible way to end it. Too many poor decisions and turnovers! Defensively what happen to the pressure at the end of the game, at least if you are gonna get beat, get beat with effort. Keith Brooking, PLEASE! RETIRE! or cut his sorry a……….s! He is a defensive liablility and they know it, I don’t care how long he has been with the team there comes a time when you must face the facts!
By Great Falconi
January 3, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
Well, that 3rd and 16 was all on Brooking. Lofton was taking the guy in the flat. Not exactly the kind of leadership needed in a clutch situation.
Abraham’s a very good player. The problem is that he’s the only good pass rusher the Falcons have. I can’t blame him for getting blocked when no one else got any pressure on Warner. Abe stays. He gave us a great year.
Milloy got picked on the Boldin TD, but Chris Houston seemed to think it was his own fault. They now have plenty of time to get their stories straight.
Ryan was shaky, but his mistakes didn’t kill him or his team. He gave the D a shot to get the ball back. Michael Turner had nowhere to run. Kinda hard to tote the rock when your O-line can’t open up holes. Harvey Dahl gets a goat’s head in his locker for allowing Darnell Dockett to blow him up and make the biggest play in the game.
MOVING ON…
It was a good season. It wasn’t a “miracle” season, Arthur Blank. This team played well enough to get into the playoffs without any miracles. They lost in the playoffs because they continued playing the substandard football of the previous few weeks. Nevertheless, I’m happy I have a playoff loss to be p** about. For the first time in several years, I’m actually looking forward to a new Falcons season.
Great job, guys.
And cut Brooking…HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.
(Seriously. Cut him. He’s old.)
By DHD
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
Hand it to Ken Whisenhunt for not sitting on the ball. They just beat us.
Thank you Mr Blank for for bringing professional football back to Atlanta. A GREAT season that not ONE person here predicted.
By Forrest Gump
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
Heck with the Falcons and keith brooking and the foney NFL.Dam cardinals offsides the whole game.pathedic. Get beat with a wore out runnig back and QB.Our QB rockie of the year in 08 in 09 the bust.
By willie
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
How did the Cardinals win? Falcons choked…It was a team effort. Just the same it was a great year.
By Patty
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
For Heaven’s sakes, please get us a Defense, Mr. Blank. Abraham is great(when he’s not hurt) but our secondary couldn’t stop a disabled middle-aged woman!
I will say this—thank you, Falcons. Right before that first game, against the Lions, my husband said if you guys could win just one game this year,he would be so happy. And you guys gave him ten—thank you for that.
By bigcrimson
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
brooking & milloy gone…take abe with you!!!! now you idiots still say he is better than J Allen, J Tuck, & Peppers
By Chad
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
1. Good season for the Falcon’s
2. Far exceeded expectations
3. The crowd was the difference
4. Layoff of Abraham…he’s hurt
5. Brooking does need to go
6. So does Vick Supporter2
By 9 in the box
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
Next Week… Cards: 3, Panthers: 71. HAHAHHAHaHHaHaHHHA! GOOD LUCK REHABILITATING, WARNER!
By brookingisanass
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
Vick is still a worthless piece of sh&T!!!
Dont blame Ryan, blame the worthless defense and especially Brooking-What an IDIOT!!!!! Falcon defense has sucked all year long and cost them three of their losses!!
By brookingisanass
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
Vick is still a worthless piece of sh&T!!!
Dont blame Ryan, blame the worthless defense and especially Brooking-What an IDIOT!!!!! Falcon defense has sucked all year long and cost them three of their losses!!
By brookingisanass
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
Vick is still a worthless piece of sh&T!!!
Dont blame Ryan, blame the worthless defense and especially Brooking-What an IDIOT!!!!! Falcon defense has sucked all year long and cost them three of their losses!!
By michael
January 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
I just want to say how proud I am that these guys represent my city. You played your hearts out all year - and the only thing I have to be sad about now is having to wait nine more months to see what you do next year.
Go Falcons. You lost a game, but won the hearts of Atlanta. See you in September.
By falcondawg
January 3, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this
Where in the hell did brooking learn to play football? oh yeah GT thanks buddy….. at least we know what to pick in the draft next year!!!
By Tyler
January 3, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this
I don’t want to hear any bs about “moral victories”. Call this what it is: A ridiculous playoff performance. Give Keith Brooking his walking papers immediate and put Lawyer Malloy out of his gd misery. Everything they accomplished this year doesn’t amount to sh—. You either win championships, or you’re a loser. Period. Falcons, once again, are LOSERS.
By Wes Durham
January 3, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this
Strike up the Band! Brooking just made the bone head play of the year!
By turkey
January 3, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this
I was told the Falcons were now on a different train, a different track than the one that always goes to Loserville. Nope, same train, same track, and same old bridge that is always out. Season over.
By Tommy Nobis
January 3, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this
Falcon GM will make this team better next year…Lofton and Nicholas should be the only LB’s kept…
Offensive line seemed tired, long season.
Great year Falcons, I’ve watched and enjoyed way more than I’ve been disappointed.
Can’t wait til next year…
By revscole
January 3, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this
After watching the game, it is aparent that the time has come to blow up the defense and rebuild. I love Brooking, yet he is old and showed it on the last meaningful play. Story of the game, no pass rush and no pass protection for Ryan. Due to Ryan, the future is still bright. Go Falcons!
By Ron E.
January 3, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this
That was a poor showing by the Falcons, but I can’t get too critical of them because my pre-season expectations were they would be a top 5 team in the lottery again after this year. With a few minor tweaks here and there, the team should be able to grab a top 2 seed next year and home field should make all the difference.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this
Despite the bad ending, this has been a good season for the Falcons.
But can we please, please, please dead the “Ryan is better than Vick” talk now. Please. It is just retarded. In his first playoff game, Vick was calm, composed, made the plays that needed to be made, and won against a much better team in a much more hostile environment.
Ryan has had a nice season, but he played poorly today. Straight up. He orchestrated two nice drives today, but otherwise played poorly. He was rattled by pressure, made a lot of inaccurate throws in crunch time, and didn’t make the plays that mattered most.
At some point in his career, assuming he continues to develop and grow, he will probably become as good as if not better than Vick at some point. But the revisionist history from fans and the media is misguided and annoying. Vick is a three time Pro Bowler who led a poorly coached team to the 2nd round in his first year as a starter and the NFC Championship Game in his 2nd year as a starter. Ryan is a zero-time Pro Bowler who led a well-coached team with the best running game in the league to a playoff loss in his first season as a starter. Of course it wasn’t entirely his fault — better defensive coaching and execution would have gone a long way towards winning this game — but he certainly didn’t play well enough to win either.
That’s nothing to be ashamed of, and he’s had a fine season for a rookie. But right now, he is nothing more than a talented player placed in a position to succeed by a very good coaching staff. He’s not better than Vick. Not yet.
By Matthew
January 3, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this
As much misery as us Atlantas have gone through over the years, the Falcons better win a Super Bowl within the next 5 years. You can make excuses this year, but starting next year there will no longer be any excuses for the Falcons. Lets face it, the Falcons are the only hope we have. The Braves are probably going to be the laughing stock of baseball the next few years, the Hawks are good but can’t compete with teams like the Lakers, Celtics, etc, and the Trashers are a joke.
By ATMDOG
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
56 needs to retire. Thanks Falcons for great season! Only one team will end the season with a win and the Falcons still need some players. The future looks bright.By Mitch
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
Well, for all of the people trashing individuals don’t forget this is a team game. The game should have never come down to a 3rd and 16 play. Turnovers killed us today. We lost the turnover battle, and and that lost the game.
By Realist
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
Well, the national audience got to see what the hype was all about…and found out, it was indeed….just hype.
By oldbird
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
Folks, we got a lot farther this year than any of us thought we would, and it certainly does suck to lose to a team that we would beat 99 out of a hundred times. However, I beleive in the track we are on, and the rest of you fans should too. We will continue to go to the playoffs, and we will win the Superbowl within five years. I don’t think that I have ever made that statement before with any real expectations before in my following of the Falcons over the last 37 years. Yes, today was very disappointing, but I truly believe we are on the right track. Actually, we are way ahead of schedule. Today’s loss still stinks bigtime.
By brewdawg
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
Hey VS you disappoint me bro. Your original prediction was No Vick= No playoffs. Not No Vick = No playoff wins.
I’m no fair weather fan. Props to the Cards. They deserved the win and they got it. Remember Falcons fans, we are young as hell. The future is still bright. I’m devastated right now, but I am a Falcon fan for life. Peace to you all.
By Jon
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
BROOKING YOU ARE DUMB AS HELL
By CDS
January 3, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this
Hey Vick Supporter,
We are probably going to do something next season that Vick couldn’t do, have a winning record in back to back seasons.
By william
January 3, 2009 7:56 PM | Link to this
Abraham needs to go to hes always hurt always has been even in NY and how many times do they have to jump the snap before you change the snap count falcons never did unreal
By Couldn't Overcome
January 3, 2009 7:56 PM | Link to this
Where do we start…
The Cards had the classic flea flicker (trick play), The Freak Play off the Turner fumble, There was a Matt Ryan INT that turned into a TD, oh yeah and the Safety…..we gave the Cardinals 23 of their 30 points. They put together one really good drive but thats about it. It’s hard to overcome the bad. There was definitely some good that came from the Falcons but you can’t expect to win a ball game when you’re not only going against another team, the crowd, THE REFS, and then YOURSELF. You can’t win! It was good to see the team fight, but its hard to win when you keep shooting yourself in the foot. Keith Brooking…what da hell were you doing man???? We’ve got to plug in some more pieces on defense going into this off-season and his position is one of em.
The Cardinals are not a good team and I wouldn’t be shocked to see them go to Carolina and get it handed to them. I think the Falcons are at least 10 points maybe 2 touchdowns better than this team. The ball just didn’t bounce our way today.
By jt
January 3, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this
How is this the coaches fault? Too many turnovers and, I believe, the Cardinals wanted it just a little bit more. It is hard to win a road game in the playoffs. Oh, and by the way, how many of you whiners would not have taken 11-5 and a playoff berth in September?…..Didn’t think so.
By JUST WAIT
January 3, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this
Everyone sees the improvements that Dimitroff made this past offseason…I have no doubt that he will get rid of Brooking and the other kinks in the system…have faith Falcons fans, were gonna be alright
By Keith Brooking = Pile Humper
January 3, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this
KB cost us the chance to see our great rookie QB have the biggest 4th quarter comeback in Falcon playoff history. That POS from Ga Tech couldn’t cover his grandma. Way to step up on that last play. I’ve never played football, but I do know the OLB assignment is to cover the TE on pass plays. Do us all a favor and retire. You are WORTHLESS to this team
By jimmyingainesville
January 3, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this
How many tackles did Abraham have …two. How many sacks? None. What was Turner’s average 2.3 yards per carry. Who really lost the game … the coaches blew it. How many sacks on AZ…none. Price of the game … continual frustration on behalf of Falcon fans. How long can we stand to be fired up to be let down? Please Mr. Smith … find some players who can win.
By T
January 3, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this
I please beg Thomas Dimitrof to remember the last defensive play. 3rd & 16 and Brooking bites on the qb and leaves his man wide open for the game clinching catch. We all know that Brooking is washed up. He had a bad year following a bad year last year. He is old and has no future in this league. PLEASE, PLEASE get a young LB on this team that has speed at the least. While Brooking defenders point to his tackles and leadership, I would be willing to bet that he made less than 5 tackles all season behind the line and 99.9% of his tackles were beyond 5 yds from the line of scrimmage. You want his leadership, make him a LB coach, but do not bring him back on this team.
You will lose fans if you do!!!!
By craig
January 3, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this
Turner did not run hard at all. He looked like he did not want to be there. Brooking, please pack your bags and do not return. Why did Norwood not get more touches? I think his speed would have worked much better than Turner. Why do the Falcons ever go in the huddle? Their no-huddle offense always works. Why do we blitz all do long and then on the last drive just let Warner have all day to throw? I think the coaches and players better learn a lot about playoff football if they ever want to get past the first round.
By dd
January 3, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this
We lost this one on the line of scrimmage and the play calling was a little suspect at times.
Would liked to have seen a few more passes to Norwood , but hey what a year by the Birds.
AB just needs to stay out of the way and let the guys he hired do their jobs, because they are GOOD!!!!
They worked a miracle this year. I was very impressed.
Looking forward to 2009.
By Darryl Roy
January 3, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this
The Falcons were out coached ! The run didn’t work . They stuck to it until it was too late. They should have gone for the first down in the first half instead of the field goal. Not enough rush against pro bowler…. 3rd and 16 and no rush. Take your time Kurt and nail them! OUT COACHED!
By drew
January 3, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this
Great season Falcons! Lots to look forward to. I have no doubt, based on this year, that management will go out and get what we need to fix our shortcomings. You dumbazzes can blame it on Brooking, but he wasn’t alone (although I agree, he’s done). Take away the freak fumble for 7, and it’s a different game. Yeah, it hurts losing to a mediocre team like the Cards (who will get their azzes handed to then next week), but we’ll be back.
“The future’s so bright, I have to wear shades…”
By RB
January 3, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this
Like the snowman on the commercial who didn’t get the cell phone call on time, THE ICE HAS MELTED!!!!!!!!!! It was still a good year for the Falcons!
By roland
January 3, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this
BROOKING SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NEED A SECONDARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NEED ANOTHER PASS RUSHER, GET RID OF ANDERSON AND HOUSTON AND OF COURSE BROOKING!!!!!!!!
THANKS MATT RYAN!!!!!!!!!! YOU SHUT UP THE DOUBTERS TODAY, IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT THAT TURNER AND THE LINE WERE OUT OF SYNC!!!! ANY MISTAKE MADE WAS A ROOKIE MISTAKE WHICH YOU ARE ALLOWED!!!!!
By Cory B
January 3, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this
Still need work on the O-line…they didn’t show up to play today…the splits on that forced fumble that resulted in the TD made all the difference. Did u see Wiener (I think it was) grabbing the guy who got past him to get a safety? Mike Turner disappeared again…I know it was a tough week for him personally on a couple of front but he has not produced on the road most of the season.
The whole defense needs to be changed up, starting with the line…but I guess that’s why Dimitroff is here…he’s supposed to be able to pick good talent from the draft…we will need plenty on the defense for next year.
The Falcons had a great year but it leaves a bad taste for it to end the way it has.
By Kyle
January 3, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this
Arizona’s defense line dominated the game. Usually happens when you get the crazed home fans into the game early like they did. The NFL’s rule of the division leader hosting a home playoff must end immediately. A 9-7 team should never host a 11-5 team. I am 100% convinced that Arizona cannot win on the road and would have been and will be obliterated when they have to leave Phoenix. Atlanta had the better year and the better team, but the crowd noise flustered the Falcons offensive line and was the culprit in the biggest play of the game(the Turner fumble for score). Their line, Bertrand Berry in particular, got off the ball quick, often times too quick with no penalty flags and dominated Atlanta’s offensive line. Matt Ryan played well, but looked like a rookie early. Keith Brooking continues to be the weak link in the defense. I pray someone other than me notices that after watching the film of this year. All in all this was a great year and the future looks bright. Just had higher hopes than to lose to the worst playoff team in NFL history, but oh well.
By JJ
January 3, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this
I don’t give a rip about Vick / Ryan comparisons……but for the love of all things pure and holy someone CUT THAT FREAKING LOSER KEITH BROOKING>
He’s washed up and completely overratted. He missed tackles, missed an easy int and then had the inexcusable bonehead play at the end that cost the Birds at least a CHANCE to take a late lead.
Make the bum walk home. Freaking loser.
By Anderson
January 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this
Turnovers (3,-2) FINALLY caught up with the Falcons. Throw in the safety though that really turned out to be a non factor. It was already 28-17. Two tds was still needed to win the game.
Merrill Hodge from ESPN in his post-game analysis stated that the vertical passing game is Matt Ryan’s current weakness. Hodge did state it was also Peyton Manning’s early in his career. Ryan has room to gain 10-15 pounds which would improve his arm strength.
MR also needs to work on getting rid of the ball faster inside the red zone. MR missed Roddy White early in the game. Remember the Green Bay goal line INT.
MR will only get better. He has the talent and work ethic.
By ShawnB
January 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this
Great season for the Falcons….can’t wait for next year. MATTY ICE IS STILL THE MAN, AND WILL BE GREAT FOR MANY SEASONS TO COME FOR THE FALCONS. Need to focus on defense and O-line depth in the offseason.
By MikeP
January 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this
I promise you this managament group willsee no sentimenatl reason to keep a middle linebacker that has consistantly been 3 steps too slow for the past three years…u need your playmakers to make plays….I challenge anyone to tell me the last time this dud has made a play that wasnt 10 yds down the field…simply pathetic…we need a middle linebacker and defensive end…albert haynesworth we need you
By Jack
January 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this
Well, that sucked a big one. 13 years of blowing big games for big-time area sports teams and counting. Glad the Falcons made the playoffs but this is pretty disappointing, especially with the way the team ended the first half. What a downer..first Georgia’s disappointment, now this, and the Braves are going to suck this year too.
CAN SOMEONE WIN A BIG GAME AGAIN?! PLEASE?
By roger
January 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this
VICK Supporter, what the Hell did MV win???? A playoff game in his 3rd year?? And maybe another? Ryan is a rookie and will have a few more chances than Vick ever will! You were saying the same crap about Peyton before he won a Superbowl and much Vick was a better qb, what a f*cking joke MV is!
By Sly Ty
January 3, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this
This was a great season, and we should all be thankful about the big turnaround. There will be some changes made through free agency/draft, but we are in alot better situation than we were last year, and many of the other contenders for next season. Go Falcons, and all of you Vick Supporters, let it go dude. He desserted us for his thug cousins.
By ST
January 3, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this
SuperSI$$Ys did it again. Congrats!!
By the professor
January 3, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this
This was a wonderful game that had an appropriate ending. Looking forward to next year. LOL
By kj
January 3, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this
unbelievable! u guys are such turncoats! the defense has come up huge for us all season and now because of a bad game you want to revamp the whole squad?! ridiculous ! we do need a couple of upgrades but lets be real the ofense let us down just as much as the d nd I don’t hear anyone calling for their heads. and im out
By GeorgeW
January 3, 2009 8:02 PM | Link to this
Let it go people. The defense was banged up and it showed. Brooking did cover the wrong guy on that last conversion though. To say anything bad about Ryan merely illuminates the racism that the V.S.’s barely even try and contain at this point. The offense played a good game and scored enough to win a ballgame if the defense could have stepped up.
By ATL4LIFE
January 3, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this
Hey Dallas Terry… “HOW ‘BOUT THEM COWBOYS!” WAAAHAHHAHahaHaHaHaHa!
By crabapplejoe
January 3, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this
All you fools who are blaming Brooking obviously didn’t watch the game. Did Brooking fumble the ball for a Cardinal touchdown to start the second hald….no, that would be Michael Turner with the game changing play. Did Brooking drop how many passes that Roddy White dropped today?… Did Keith Brooking get beat like a rented mule for two touchdowns like Lawyer Milloy did today?…Did Keith Brooking walk out of bounds on a reception when he should have walked into the endzone like Michael Jenkins die?…Did Keith Brooking throw two interceptions like Matt Ryan did today?…Did Keith Brooking not show up like Abraham did today? Both Lofton and Brooking came up on that third down pass….why just Brooking gets the blame…because he’s white. Turner lost this game for us on the fumble…get over your Brooking bashing.
By General Zod
January 3, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this
To quote Chris Collinsworth
“Keith Brooking??? What is he doing?????!!!!”
By I HATE #56
January 3, 2009 8:04 PM | Link to this
I HATE KEITH BROOKING, HOW BOUT YOU.
By Keith Brooking = Pile Humper
January 3, 2009 8:04 PM | Link to this
How do you spell release?
B-R-O-O-K-I-N-G
He did such a great job on that last play to make sure the Cards didnt get a 5 yard gain. Get your worthless POS tech azz out of here.
By Cujo
January 3, 2009 8:04 PM | Link to this
PLEASE CUT KEITH BROOKING! He couldn’t cover Fat Albert. He ALWAYS makes a tackle AFTER the runner has the first down. BONEHEAD play of the year cost the offense a chance to win the game at the end. Again, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE CUT KEITH BROOKING LOOSE NOW!!!
By General Zod
January 3, 2009 8:04 PM | Link to this
To quote Chris Collinsworth
“Keith Brooking??? What is he doing?????!!!!”
By Cujo
January 3, 2009 8:05 PM | Link to this
PLEASE CUT KEITH BROOKING! He couldn’t cover Fat Albert. He ALWAYS makes a tackle AFTER the runner has the first down. BONEHEAD play of the year cost the offense a chance to win the game at the end. Again, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE CUT KEITH BROOKING LOOSE NOW!!!
By George
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
Congrats, AJC. It took you 3 hours to post an article about the Falcons last win. But you were all over this loss. Pulitzer Prize winning coverage. You should be embarrased. You’re “Breaking News” email message to subscribers told us everything we need to know about AJC commitment to Falcons football. We can only hope that the next round of buyouts and layoffs are focused in the sports department.
By HJ
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
The Bottomline
Disappointing lost considering the Falcons (at least on paper) are a better team. Matt Ryan had a decent game, but had some key rookie mistakes. You can’t fault him for the loss though. Michael Turner didn’t show up. The veteran defensive players (Brooking, Milloy, Abraham) didn’t step up and that was the difference in my opinion.
The Falcons were overachievers this season. Anybody who believes their record was a good indicator of this team’s talent is delusional. A big part of Matt Ryan’s succes was because Michael Turner had a breakout season, but don’t expect Turner to be a perennial 1500 yd rusher. I think Ryan and White will continue to improve and become the centerpiece of this team, but the Falcons have to continue to make bold personnel moves to get to the next level.
The defense needs to be overhauled and I can’t for the life of me understand why the Falcons kept Keith Brooking and got rid of players like Crumpler and Warrick Dunn. Even though Dunn was beyond his prime, I thought he gave this team heart.
I hope the front office doesn’t settle for winning seasons. The Falcons’ fans are long overdue a Super Bowl title, but that won’t happen unless Blanks is willing to make bold roster moves.
By welikebaseball2
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
Needs for next season: 1) Shutdown CB 2) Pass-rushing DE (or DT) 3) Offensive tackle that’ll stay healthy 4) Playmaking outside linebacker
By GoGaBulldawgs
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
Regardless of all of the negative comments on this post, I can’t believe that anyone here actually thought that we would go to a playoff game. It has been a hell of a season, and I’m looking forward to the next one. I, for one, am very proud of this team. Remember the 2007 season? GO FALCONS!
By dave
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
Brookings time to go. Vick at running back in 2010, after nfl suspension, and new defensive coordinator. 2012, 10-6.
By PUTTING ON THE FOIL
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
Hey Vick Supporter and VS2. * EVEN A BROKEN CLOCK IS RIGHT TWICE A DAY. Great season Falcons. No one can take anything away from that. You guys are right on track for another great season next year. I now enjoy football in the ATL once again. Props to the coaches, GM, ownership and all the players who laid it out every week. Something that can’t be said about the past teams of recent years. *GREAT SEASON BIRDS.
By jim
January 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
well leave it to 2 former georgia tech players to screw this thing up for us! Whisenhunt, a overrated tech quarterback coaching against us and brooking a undersized, slow, over-rated linebacker blew the game for us. I could have sworn that was willie martinez coaching the defense for the falcons. By the way dog fans, you just lost your best defensive coach to the vols for the D/C position. But you still got that idiot martinez to keep your competition a step ahead. Hey arthur, get off the sidelines its not about you, and by the way take jimmy johnson wanna be with you. Coaching stunk today, Van Gorder the Horder stunk it up again with his high school defense. Go Panthers, time to kick some Cardinal a*.
By Pat
January 3, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this
What a freakin dissappointment…should have known better.
By Gritty
January 3, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this
Another playoff game another LOSS!! This gets old folks. I see Mutt Ryan continue to get beat up real bad in games and have a bartkowski type career in Atlanta. The killer instinct is just not in Atlanta teams of any sport. Granted the Braves got lucky one year but NO KILLER INSTINCT!!!! We have known Brooking can’t cut it but they have had him around for the last kajillion years. Once again another year another playoff LOSS!!! tHEY UOGHT TO HAVE TO RIDE BACK HOME ON HORSES FOR THE EFFORT THAT SHOWN TODAY.
By getaclue
January 3, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this
I guess these Vick supporters are talking about him being the best at dog fighting because on the field Matt Ryan is already twice the quarterback Vick was or will ever be! Okay, he could run, but that got us where? Watch what Ryan will accomplish over the next few years and get a clue vick supporters!
By arm24jeff
January 3, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this
Wow, if only KB had not bit on that play, Matt Ryan was guaranteed to throw a TD! Last I checked, there were plenty of mistakes out there, KB just happened to make the last one. MR threw two picks, both of which were terrible. The O-line got manhandled and allowed that game-changing fumble by Turner. They also made it near impossible for Turner to get going out of the backfield. But it is all KB’s fault, no one else. Face it, the better team won today, and KB was not the only one that was out-manned. I think every player on our team was out-manned today. They showed up ready, and we were on our heels. That’s okay, I’m ready for next year, and very thankful for a wonderful season. Thanks Falcons, and come quickly September!
By Gritty
January 3, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this
Another playoff game another LOSS!! This gets old folks. I see Mutt Ryan continue to get beat up real bad in games and have a bartkowski type career in Atlanta. The killer instinct is just not in Atlanta teams of any sport. Granted the Braves got lucky one year but NO KILLER INSTINCT!!!! We have known Brooking can’t cut it but they have had him around for the last kajillion years. Once again another year another playoff LOSS!!! tHEY UOGHT TO HAVE TO RIDE BACK HOME ON HORSES FOR THE EFFORT THAT SHOWN TODAY.
By SeaAtl
January 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this
First of all - GREAT SEASON! Nothing that happened today should - or will - take away from an amazing season by the entire team. BUT……Turner didn’t even show up; Milloy was not even a factor; Abraham was manhandled without even being double-teamed once; and Keith Brooking played awfully. Ryan was either awful or terrible, nothing in between. Bottom line is this - the Falcons just got embarrassed by the worst team in the playoffs. But the future looks bright for Atlanta still. Just a terrible, terrible, awful game to watch.
By keep it real
January 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this
great season falcons. totally unexpected. However, the defense must be addressed particularly the secondary if we expect to go to the next level. Offense will be fine. Thanks for the ride!!
By roger
January 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this
First Round: defensive tackle Second Round: inside linebacker Third Round: cornerback Fourth Round: tight end
Address those in draft or free agency, and maybe a safety or OL, and we will be fine for years.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this
“Both Lofton and Brooking came up on that third down pass….why just Brooking gets the blame…because he’s white.”
Ah, yes. I was waiting for this.
Could it possibly have been because Lofton is a rookie who is expected to make rookie mistakes, while Brooking is a supposedly smart veteran, according to people like you? But no, Cris Collinsworth is a racist, that’s why he criticized Brooking more than Lofton. Of course.
For the record, I don’t think Brooking is a bad player. A little overrated, but not bad.
I do however think you are the biggest f-cking idiot on this blog. Yeah, there’s a vast anti-white conspiracy among fans and the media. Sure. Give me a f-cking break.
By GeorgeW
January 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this
Let it go people. The defense was banged up and it showed. Brooking did cover the wrong guy on that last conversion though. To say anything bad about Ryan merely illuminates the racism that the V.S.’s barely even try and contain at this point. The offense played a good game and scored enough to win a ballgame if the defense could have stepped up.
By Andy
January 3, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this
Man, this stinks. Two big plays in the 1st half—-otherwise we dominated the first two periods. THEN a amazing screw up on the hand off—-crazy space between the guard and right tackle. Boom the third period was was dominated by the cards—-the fourth was even till the booking let the tight end run straight down the field. Except for three big plays the falcons played alot better than the cards. man o man this stinks esp. when it feels like the falcons gave them the game. GREAT YEAR THOUGH!!!!! Draft is coming soon.
By Kyle
January 3, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this
Next Week Arizona won’t score 10 points and that is the difference when you have hetrosexuals playing in a playoff game and what we have in Atlanta.
By adam
January 3, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this
Why do people keep saying the future looks bright ? Just because Matt Ryan had a pretty good year ? I’m sure Dolphins fans were saying they had a bright future too when Marino first started. But as we all know, they never won a SB. So, it’s gonna take a lot more than a good qb to win the SB.
By Big MIKE
January 3, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this
O.k., let’s get straight to the point,ARZ beat us, not because of Abraham,they beat us because we lack a true safety since Coleman is out. We have no Defensive end opposite Abraham [ANDERSON is truly a bust at this point] our tackles can’t get a upfield rush[Warner had all day to throw],and we lack that killer instict. This Offseason should be focued on building speed on the defense.We need A Taylor Mays type safety, and a Brandon Spikes type backer. Anyway congrats coach on a good year, and build upon it. You Vick lovers, please let it go. A.Blank has 72 million invested in this kid, he had a great year, and did the city some good.I’m Black, and I’m telling you to let go of your prejustices, and embrace not just a good Q.B., but a good young man.Don’t get me wrong,I hope Vick doe’s great in New York,Chicago, or San Francisco,and that he comes back strong, but he made the big mistake of trying to keep the same crew [Remember you can take em out the ghetto, but you can’t take the ghetto out of them]and it got him burned. Good Luck Falcons, Good luck M.Vick and good bye you bandwagon jumpers! If you hurry the ARZ wagon will be pullin out soon.
By Big MIKE
January 3, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this
O.k., let’s get straight to the point,ARZ beat us, not because of Abraham,they beat us because we lack a true safety since Coleman is out. We have no Defensive end opposite Abraham [ANDERSON is truly a bust at this point] our tackles can’t get a upfield rush[Warner had all day to throw],and we lack that killer instict. This Offseason should be focued on building speed on the defense.We need A Taylor Mays type safety, and a Brandon Spikes type backer. Anyway congrats coach on a good year, and build upon it. You Vick lovers, please let it go. A.Blank has 72 million invested in this kid, he had a great year, and did the city some good.I’m Black, and I’m telling you to let go of your prejustices, and embrace not just a good Q.B., but a good young man.Don’t get me wrong,I hope Vick doe’s great in New York,Chicago, or San Francisco,and that he comes back strong, but he made the big mistake of trying to keep the same crew [Remember you can take em out the ghetto, but you can’t take the ghetto out of them]and it got him burned. Good Luck Falcons, Good luck M.Vick and good bye you bandwagon jumpers! If you hurry the ARZ wagon will be pullin out soon.
By nc_falcon_fan
January 3, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this
Thanks Falcons for a tremendous year. Let’s pray 4 & 12 next year isn’t “part of the process”.
By Biggerthanbigdawg
January 3, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this
The Falcons football season is over and compared to the past few years it was a dandy! Anybody up for watching dog fighting on channel 7? Or we could pack fudge until next season.
By Tom Davis
January 3, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING IS AN IDIOT AND COST THE FALCONS THE GAME
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this
Also, I think it’s LAUGHABLE that you people blame Brooking for the season. You fans are losers blaming everything on Brooking…..just like you did Vick…. you people always have to find a “fall guy”……What it comes down to is that you FANS are just the worse in the country…..You people tuned on the falcons just that quickly…..Roddy went back to being the “drop master”, the falcons’s O-Line went back to the REAL FALCONS O-line…..couldn’t block. Jenkins gave his usual 3 catches. All in all, same ol falcons, minus Vick, (by his own doing I say again). It was a good run, but i guess Ya’ll ran out of “Ice”,lol. Vick 09. Redemption is near……..it will happen……… Sorry, Falcons fans, ITS OVER…..=)
By crabapplejoe's balls
January 3, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this
Joe: Watch the frigging game! He’s a joke! Why would you want to kill your team ( He could make millions as an Engineer ) ( oops, sorry!) The money he’s made could buy Coweta County. RETIRE OR RELEASE NOW!
By ToccoaBird
January 3, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this
All and all a very good season. A strong foundation has been set.
By ej
January 3, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this
A real disappointing effort at the end but that’s football -
Thanks Falcons and look forward to next year!
By roger
January 3, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this
You Falcon fans know how many other NFL cities would love to be us right now??? Look at our future and get a clue! First year QB, coach, GM, etc….
By roland
January 3, 2009 8:15 PM | Link to this
OUR DEFENSE WAS OUR MAIN WEAKNESS ALL SEASON. ABE AND A COUPLE OTHERS MANAGED TO SAVE US FROM OUR SECONDARY AND #56.
OUR SPECIAL TEAMS IF YOU HEARD IS OUTSTANDING!!!
TURNER DID NOT HAVE IS HEAD IN THE GAME BUT STILL EXCELLENT!!!
WHITE WILL GET BETTER, GET RID OF JENKINS NORWOOD HAS SAVED THIS TEAM TIME AGAIN!!!
AND OF COURSE MATT RYAN SHOWED TREMONDOUS PROMISE!!! GOOD JOB FALCONS LOOK FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR!!!
By De-Iced
January 3, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this
The Vick lovers can go to hell. Ryan didn’t cost us this game the defense did.
By GT Guy
January 3, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this
Hey what a great season. Matt made some rookie mistakes but that is to be expected. Man the future looks great for this organization.
Didn’t expect to go that far in the playoffs, we still need a few more pieces especially on the D and O line.
Go Falcons & THWG
By welikebaseball2
January 3, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this
Leave it up to crabapplejoe, to play the racecard! LOL. Brooking is getting ripped because he’s a liability on defense…period. Are people not allowed to criticize a player that happens to be white? What about the white people calling for his release? They doing it because he’s white too? LOL. Wow. LOL. Must be some complex you got there. Hey, when you get out of your black/white world of paranoia, you might want to ask somebody about a dissapointing day by our Falcons. By the way, that’s what all this fuss is about. Don’t worry, we’ll catch you up. LOL.
By daniel
January 3, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this
Judging by the entire Falcons history, the chances of the Falcons having another winning season next year is about 0% .
By adon
January 3, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this
We had a great season this year. I was a big Vick fan and I still am. Matt Ryan has been awesome all year. People, you have to give him credit for that. The Cards came ready for us. They had the same guy on Turner all day and had Abraham covered on both sides. For the first time all season, we were just out coached. Hats off to our ATLANTA FALCONS!!!
By crabapplejoe
January 3, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this
George W wrote: “Brooking did cover the wrong guy on that last conversion though” Just curious, did you not notice that both Lofton and Brooking came up on the short receiver on that play. How do you know that Brooking, the twelve year veteran, blew the assignment rather than Lofton the Rookie. Do you have a copy of the Falcons defensive play book?
By Sam
January 3, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this
Najeh Davenpoop , Keith Brooking was solely responsible on that 3rd and long play. Lofton is the MLB and keith is the OLB. Lofton was supposed to cover the RB and Brooking was supposed to cover the TE!!!!!! Keith clearly bit on the playaction and played the RB! It was all Brooking and nothing to do with racism. Know your football before you talk.
By adon
January 3, 2009 8:20 PM | Link to this
We had a great season this year. I was a big Vick fan and I still am. Matt Ryan has been awesome all year. People, you have to give him credit for that. The Cards came ready for us. They had the same guy on Turner all day and had Abraham covered on both sides. For the first time all season, we were just out coached. Hats off to our ATLANTA FALCONS!!!
By Traver
January 3, 2009 8:20 PM | Link to this
Van Gorder sux. Off season priority number one - sign Mularky. Priority number two - fire dumbass Van Gorder. No emotion on defense. Couldn’t stop the run aagainst my sons 6 and under team. No adjustments. He ruined Georgia Southern and he ruined the Falcons today. The turnovers didn’t help but despite all of that, we could have still won the game if the defense had a coordinator that could find a way to stop one of the worst run offenses in the league and a 97 year old QB. Pathetic. 3rd and 16 - What in the hell are we doing letting the tight end run in between the LBs and the safeties and more importantly past the sticks WIDE OPEN for the first down. I am royally p**. Just awful. The Cardinals are terrible and we laid down for them.
By General Zod
January 3, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this
Zod says great season Falcons.
But this Keith Brooking is nothing of a kind. He’s garbage, therefore he will “kneel before Zod”! ZOD!!!
By Da Real Real
January 3, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this
We got out coached? Are you kiddin’ me??? The coach doesn’t turn the football over. The Cardinals beat us off turnovers. It would be hard for somebody to prove to me how exactly Ken out coached Mike today because it just didn’t happen. Do you think coach told Keith Brooking to jump the underneath route? Doubt it.
And then to crabapplejoe with this comment: Both Lofton and Brooking came up on that third down pass….why just Brooking gets the blame…because he’s white. Turner lost this game for us on the fumble…get over your Brooking bashing
First off Turner didn’t lose the game for us. Last I checked this was a team sport. Secondly…….Keith Brooking (as the strong side linebacker) had responsibility for the tight end on the play and it looked like he was going to get help over the top from the strong safety. Lofton (the middle linebacker) was responsible for covering the middle. The running back came across the middle which Lofton rightfully covered. Brooking hopped off his man like an idiot for an underneath route on a 3rd and long play. You just dont do that. So its only fair that people come on here and bash Brooking for a mistake that caused the Falcons not to have a chance to get the ball back. If he sticks with his man there’s a chance that Kurt doesn’t throw it to the tight end…or he bats the ball down. Then again, with the way Keith played today the tight end probably would have still made the play.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this
All my negative comments and pro-Vick posts aside, I will say this — if you are a true Falcons fan you really shouldn’t be complaining right now. The Falcons had a very good season, exceeded expectations in nearly every regard, and if the coaching staff and front office remains intact and they continue to upgrade the roster they look to have a bright future. You can’t blame an overachieving team for coming back down to earth — it’s pretty much inevitable that will happen eventually.
By stendec
January 3, 2009 8:23 PM | Link to this
I have posted the truth about Keith “Dumb As Dirt” Brooking all season! Glad he was finally exposed as the fraud he is for everyone to see. Cheap bestard only trails plays to make touch stops to get assists. Explains inflated tackle and assist totals. Trade him! Cut him! Shoot him! Just get him the Hell out of Atlanta! Worthless oxygen waste. That one was for you Crabswithanapple! Defend the undefendable. Loser! I see why Chargers sent Turner packing. Damn fumbling fool!
By T
January 3, 2009 8:23 PM | Link to this
Davenpoop and every other Brooking supporter-
The sentiment against Brooking has nothing to do with the color of his skin. I am white, but not blind. If you realistically look at KB’s last 2-3 years, he has progressively gotten worse. He has lost one maybe two steps in his cover skills and consistently makes tackles at least 5+ yds down field. Brooking was a good player, but not in the last 3-5 years. It’s time for him to go and allow the Falcons to pay tribute to him. The last play defined the problem with KB. Lofton is a rookie and probably expected KB to cover his man…
This defense has many problems that need to be addressed in the off-season. But, not having KB is a glaring move that is obvious to anyone who knows anything about playing defense in the NFL. period.
By Hopeful
January 3, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this
It’s really a shame that such a fine season came down to such a horribly missed assignment. It’s questionable whether the Falcons could have driven the length of the field with a little less than 2:00 and no time outs, but it would’ve been nice to have had that chance. Keith Brooking is a pro and a stand-up guy, didn’t lose the game all by himself and will probably be the first guy to admit he blew that assignment. But, for a “wily veteran” to make such a miserably stupid, rookie mistake on a 3rd and 16 - yeesh - it just doesn’t get any worse than that. No one need comment that the guy is way too slow to play effectively any more - that’s been painfully obvious watching him chase after guys from behind all season - and I’m pretty confident that Mr. Dimitroff has that noted for off-season consideration. But, after the utterly depressing debacle of 2007, let’s be thankful that the Falcons have Matt Ryan rather than Glen Dorsey, that the classless coward Petrino left town (Sooey Pig THIS, you punk!), that there is a competent and professional coaching staff in place now, and that the team has a core of very talented young players who will only improve. Let’s not lose sight of how great 2008 was and what we have to look forward to next season when this team will be ready to hit the ground running.
By crabapplejoe
January 3, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this
Welikebaseball2 wrote: “What about the white people calling for his release?” White self-loathers are the worst. Michael Turner lost this game for us, not Brooking. Yet, you will see post after post about Brooking. Abraham did not show up…Milloy was beaten for two touchdowns…Lofton a critical facemask penalty….Roddy dropping pass after pass…Jenkins walking out of bounds insted of to the endzone…but its all Brookings fault. How many plays did Lofton make tonight?
By william
January 3, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this
The way the NFL is now your not going to get to the playoffs very often they blew there chance dont think the Falcons will even be in the playoffs next year things went there way this year to get them there and they blew there chance oh well now we can watch the rest play for it all
By Paul Johnson
January 3, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this
Brooking deserves a raise now, just like me before the LSU game. It”s not easy being this smart and athletically challenged, but I do enjoy the easy access parking at WalMart in Newnan.
By Hurricane
January 3, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this
While I’m disappointed in the loss to the Cardinals, I’m happpy in what the Falcons accomplished, unexpectedly. Once they get a few pieces on defense and cut Keith Brooking, they will be just fine next year.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this
“Najeh Davenpoop , Keith Brooking was solely responsible on that 3rd and long play. Lofton is the MLB and keith is the OLB. Lofton was supposed to cover the RB and Brooking was supposed to cover the TE!!!!!! Keith clearly bit on the playaction and played the RB! It was all Brooking and nothing to do with racism. Know your football before you talk.”
Sam… I agree with everything you said. I was responding to crabapplejoe, who was the one who brought up race. When I include something in quotes in my post it’s because someone else said it and I’m responding to it.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this
getaclue’s comment: “I guess these Vick supporters are talking about him being the best at dog fighting because on the field Matt Ryan is already twice the quarterback Vick was or will ever be! Okay, he could run, but that got us where?
LMAO!!!!!!!!! The bottom line is…..REGARDLESS of the dogfighting..Vick won in the PLAYOFFS….. Regardless if you’re a rookie or starting your 2nd year (which is pretty much a rookie, like Vick did) HE WON MATTHEW RYAN LOST. Thats all there is to it. “Ice” has a bright future…..but you can go ahead and take that crown off of his head and get that “dynasty”,LMAO, word out of your mouths. Let the man (Ryan) prove himself, (like Vick did, A WINNER) then you can talk. 09 is gonna be a MFer. OH yes…………….
By thefalconfish
January 3, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this
Well, I’ve been an AVID fan of the Falcons for 38 years. Hard to believe I haven’t given up YEARS ago! I was SO EXCITED about this game after watching the Falcons play last Sunday. Thought for SURE we could beat the lowly Cardinals after seeing how we played last Sunday. Sadly, once again, I have to wait another year and HOPE that the Falcons can do better. I hope we ALL live long enough to see the Falcons have a winning season and a Super Bowl victory. Sadly, I believe everyone is right about Brooking. He needs to retire and become a coach! Come to think about it - the poor War Eagles need a good coach! Brooking is a good candidate for the defensive coaching job! Oh well, except for the remaining college bowl games, football season is over! Looking forward to September!!!!
But… thanks for the encouragement, Falcons. Sorry you didn’t have it in you to deliver.
By Hurricane
January 3, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this
While I’m disappointed in the loss to the Cardinals, I’m happpy in what the Falcons accomplished, unexpectedly. Once they get a few pieces on defense and cut Keith Brooking, they will be just fine next year.
By Max
January 3, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this
Brooking’s failure on that one last play was no more important than Turner’s fumble, Ryan’s interceptions, the o-line’s blocking problems, the d-line’s inability to stop the Cardinals or pressure Warner consistently, or our secondary’s many breakdowns. In short, they lost as a team- not because of any one player. Why don’t we just salute the success they had and how far they came, (which NO ONE expected this year) and look forward to next season.
By gdg73
January 3, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this
Draft list: Rey Maluaga, LB Brown, DE, FSU Best available UT Pass Catching TE Eric Berry, CB, Tenn. and a safety to play in coverage
By neckville Falcon
January 3, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this
matt Ice is a punk under pressure. smart as a rock. The NFL gave this clown a free paas . . The press made Matt Rayan a superman they wanted this guy to look good.. For real Brooking needs to go as the AJC is good at saying about a player. Joe flakco will win his play off game . He plays better under pressure. Mike Vick still the best QB with a poor team. Blank is jixed. Now they will blame Brooking ;he did not lose the game Matt Ice did what a punk when you don’t give him a gift. Like I said on draft Day get offense line men not a 75 million dollar bust. They still could have got a good QB no no they want a face and a loser. The last five game they unwrap the gift and put pressure on Ice water. Even with the NFL helping him look good by not putting pressure on at frist to show what he really was as a QB. AJC,si,ESPn, all the media pushed this clown. Tunner you punk out with the ofense line as well as our punk defense is weak as pond water . Matt is so smart what a loser ,smart is a rock!!!!! ACC. Mr. Gm what bust will you draft next year. news flash defense and offense lineman . Baker the other 1TH rounder is a weak punk too they beat the brake off him all day !!!
By bigb95ss
January 3, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this
Its time to send brookings a* packing. how can u be so stupid that bone head play cost us the chance to come back.
By mixxo
January 3, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this
Fairweather fans: You’re right! This is the end of the world.
Now move along and let us “real” fans pay homage to a good football team with loads of promise and a solid nucleus for the future. We’ll learn from this and succeed ….more likely sooner than later.
By jon
January 3, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this
Well all the negative attitude a-holes are out in force tonight. Must be hell to live in a world where everything is so much gloom and doom and where they spend their day, hoping the Flacons lose so that they can go online and trash the team. Or maybe if the Falcons win, they go on the opposing team’s blog and trash that team. Sad, really. They will really hate to read this, but:
THE FALCONS HAD A GREAT YEAR!!!!!
They won 11 games. They almost won their division (lost it by 3 points). They went on the road and played a division champion and lost by 6 points. That division champion had three fluke touchdowns and the benefit of some strange officiating (Turner breaks into the open and whistles start blowing - I didn’t know you could call a timeout in the middle of a play, but today Arizona did).
Great job Falcons! Great job Matt, Coach Smith, Big John, Norwood.
And all you negative a-holes can bite a great big one, because this is the team of the future.
By PUTTING ON THE FOIL
January 3, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this
Man, it’s amazing the fair weather losers that come out of the woodwork when the Falcons lose. VS and VS2 must be letting them type on their computers tonight. GREAT SEASON FALCONS I’m one proud Falcon fan tonight for the great year.
By joe slave
January 3, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this
Jeff schultz you still suck you redneck punk get a real job, you are not a sport writer!!
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this
@getaclue
Also, it got us a playoof win, which RYan couldn’t deliver. I’m waitin for you people to start making the “Matt Ryan is a rookie excuse”, just like I predicted. Go ahead falcons fans, I’m waiting. I’m also waiting for the racial comments also, like I EXPECT. Note: If you read my posts, you see no racial terms that are used in my posts.
By Sam
January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this
Najeh Davenpoop, my apologies
By Lesa
January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe all the childish, negative comments on this blog. How old are you people? Anyway, I want to take the opportunity to thank the Falcons for the amazing season they put together this year. We have a lot of young talent, a great GM and a fantastic coaching staff. I am confident the Falcons will be competitive for years to come. I want to preface my next comment by saying I was as big a Vick fan as you’ll ever meet. I believed him when he lied, and defended him over and over until I could no longer condone or defend his actions. He’s paying his debt to society and will get a second chance elsewhere — more power to him. Now, I’ll say MATTY ICE IS THE MAN!!!! All you dolts who are criticizing him so mercilessly are idiots!!!! He is just a rookie and is only going to get better. We have a true superstar playing QB for the Falcons — mark my words! Again, THANK YOU FALCONS! I AM SO PROUD OF YOU ALL!!!!!
By jc_atl
January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this
Poor team effort and a lot of plays that make you realize this team is pretty good but not quite playoff caliber yet. Ryan forced too many throws (our receivers were not very open all day), our O-line played poorly and our defense was just horrible. The Turner fumble was just a dang good defensive play. Officiating was bad for both teams so that’s a wash. It really just looked like a team that was a bit dazed to be on the playoff stage and sort of choked. Still, from the Vick disaster of last year to this season, it’s hard to complain very much. I give Dimitroff, Smith, Ryan and others a lot of credit for actually taking the Falcons as far as they did in a season that was supposed to be a rebuilding year.
By R
January 3, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this
Booking needs to go. I defended him the last 2 years and I had have enough of him. Houston needs to go to. I never see him making good plays. He never turns his head around. He’s a D Hall without the mouth. Typical Falcons, gets your hopes up and then rips out you hear and stomps on it.
By Dirt Dobber
January 3, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this
This was not a one man show by the Falcons.It was a sorry a* show of the whole team.Hey Falcons were was the effort? We the Falcons fan deserve better effort than we saw today.Eather the game is rigged or this team was poorly coached.To be 11-5 and lose to a team at9-7.I went to the tampa game this year this don’t even look like the same team.I will never go back. Sorry effort by a so call pro team.
By crabapplejoe
January 3, 2009 8:37 PM | Link to this
Da Real Real wrote: “First off Turner didn’t lose the game for us. Last I checked this was a team sport. Secondly…….Keith Brooking (as the strong side linebacker) had responsibility for the tight end on the play and it looked like he was going to get help over the top from the strong safety. Lofton (the middle linebacker) was responsible for covering the middle. The running back came across the middle which Lofton rightfully covered. Brooking hopped off his man like an idiot for an underneath route on a 3rd and long play. You just dont do that
First of all, Keith Brooking is our weak-side LB, so I will take the rest of your brilliant football analysis for what it is worth (BS). How come its a team sport when Turner fumbles away the game changing play. But the loss is all Brookings fault when either he or Lofton made the wrong adjustment. And I ain’t relying on you to tell me which one since you don’t even know what postions they play. ROTFLMAO
By Phil
January 3, 2009 8:38 PM | Link to this
Brooking is total moron! What is he doing letting the tight end go right by him? We get a stop there and we get the ball back with 2 minutes to go. We saw what Ryan did against the Bears in the last 2 minutes. We had a chance but that idiot Brooking blows it. That moron does not need to be on this team next season, period. Brooking couldn’t cover my grandmother out of the backfield. He also dropped an easy interception in the first half.
Turner was bobbled up all day, I thought we should have used Norwood more, I don’t understand why we didn’t.
Ryan made some mistakes as well, it just wasn’t our day. But Brooking takes the cake on this day.
By Disappointed
January 3, 2009 8:38 PM | Link to this
How do you spell owned?
L-A-W-Y-E-R M-A-L-L-O-Y
By monty
January 3, 2009 8:39 PM | Link to this
Almost everything went wrong thst could have, and we only lost by 7. THeir crowd was really into it and was like the 12th man. Still we hung in there, but in the end just too many mistakes. Great year, maybe next year we get the homefield advantage.
By Matty Ice
January 3, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
@Vick Supporter Are you a dumba$$ all the time or just on this blog?
By Miss Kitty
January 3, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
the play-offs seemed improbable a year ago. a loss in the first round to aizona seemed improbable a week ago. go figure. at the end of the day, this team never stops disappointing its fans. i’m done and they have lost my support and my money. it takes too much emotion to deal with this team.
By David Lee
January 3, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
I would like to punch Keith Brooking in the face.
By Najeh Davenpoop
January 3, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
One more thing before I get outta here: there’s another exciting, young, almost certainly playoff bound team in Atlanta, by the way. The Falcons’ season might be over, but the Hawks still have plenty of games left. It’s not too late to jump on that bandwagon.
By ESPN
January 3, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this
Matt Ice needs 911 under pressure. 75 Million dollar bust!! He will get Killed next year . They have found him out!!!
By dd
January 3, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this
Folks that try to lay a loss on one play or player are not real fans and don’t understand sports.
There are a lot of foolish comments here.
I’m glad I don’t have to work beside any of these people.
It’s scary
By dd
January 3, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this
Folks that try to lay a loss on one play or player are not real fans and don’t understand sports.
There are a lot of foolish comments here.
I’m glad I don’t have to work beside any of these people.
It’s scary
By Great Falconi
January 3, 2009 8:42 PM | Link to this
How do you spell Lawyer Milloy?
Don’t ask Disappointed.
By jack
January 3, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this
First off,,, Steve and all those others that seem to think that the Refs were trying to help out the Falcons ?????? Are you serious ????? Not calling a dozen off sides calls against the Cards,,,,Letting Warner ditch the ball 3 times while in the grasp,, when Ryan does it,, the call the play ??? The Cards finally get called off sides, and when Ryan has a receiver wide open in the End Zone, they whistle the play dead, instead of the Falcons getting the usual free play ?? Not blaming the entire loss on the Men in Stripes,, but good lordy mercy,,, there had to have been at LEAST 12 calls that went against us.
As for the rest of the game,,,, every team has off days,,,, I really do wish they would have played more to Norwood. It was obvious that Turner just didnt have it today. His Grandmother just died,, he got in town late,, he just wasnt there today. Almost every time Norwood touched the ball,,, he smoked the Cards,,,,, Ryan played pretty good,, obvious nerves in the beginning,, but for a Rookie,, he played a good game.
HOW IN THE WORLD DID RODDY DROP THAT PASS ????????
All in all,,, 11 and 5,,, playoff game after the expectations in the preseason,,, I’ll take it,, and look forward to next year. A new, fresh Linebacker,,,,,Brooking has been good, but he needs to hang it up,,,,, Someone,, ANYONE to play opposite of Abraham,,, I mean really,,,,, 1 sack in 2 years,,,, Anderson is a complete BUST !!!!
Good year Birds,,,, looking forward to what lies ahead
By Keith Brooking = Pile Humper
January 3, 2009 8:44 PM | Link to this
How many f ups did Roddy have today? Dropping easy catches, going right through his hands. On Ryan’s second INT, it was totally Roddy’s fault. He didn’t fight for the ball AT ALL
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this
Jon’s comment: “Well all the negative attitude a-holes are out in force tonight. Must be hell to live in a world where everything is so much gloom and doom and where they spend their day, hoping the Flacons lose so that they can go online and trash the team
Are you serious? People have been trashing Vick as a qb all year…… Take it like a man/woman, FALCON FANS If you would have won, it would be the “Hate Vick Blog times 2 and you know it”. Can you at least be some stand up fans and admit that the Falcons got their asses beat? Cmon!!! You people are supposed to have so much class……… so much more than us Black folks…. Lets see some class….. you folks are supposed to know how to be gracious losers alos, since ya’ll do everything else perfect
By William
January 3, 2009 8:47 PM | Link to this
The falcons was over their heads thinking they was going to beat Kurt Warner.Kurt already know how to beat the falcons and his career against the falcons were 7-1 and now 8-1.I am a falcon fan and now it is time to upgrade the defense and a couples of offensive linemen.We need another DE to help out Abraham.We need to get all three new good linebackers because the falcons don’t have any.Matt had a great season with the falcons and his offensive line that give him a chance today.The offensive line played similar to when Mike Vick was at quarterback.The whole defense suck and we seen it with our own eyes.The falcons just haven’t played a good passing team all season long.I think the falcons should have taken their chances with alot of blitzes to Warner.A good season and some needed improvements for this up coming season.
By TalentScoutInc
January 3, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this
Opinions are like well, you know. As a life long Atlantian, I could not be prouder of the Falcons from the front office to the field. The city of Atlanta is a unique animal, full of transients, and full of opinions. You have to laugh at the comments pro and con on the falcons. I believe jump at the opportunity when someone stumbles. In this case Atlanta had no legs the last two years and just walked into the play offs. What a miracle. I have been at every game over the last 8 years, concerned the last 3-5 years due to front office decisions. We finally got it right, well done Arthur blank, well done. An expected 2-14 season turned into an 11-5 season and playoff birth, well done coaches and players well done. Atlanta fans, get used to the opinions from transient Atlanta fans and transient Atlantians who pull for their native teams. No matter what, Atlanta is paying their bills, so our city is doing something right.
To one of the most remarkable turnarounds in any franchises history. To Matt Ryan breaking NFL rookie records during regular season and his first post season game. To the burner turner who took the pressure off of him to do so. To the O and D line, help is on the way in the draft. Hang in there, depth in coming.
Looking at Atlanta schedule next year, compared to the rest of the league..10-6 wild card, then will win the south, lose the NFC title game.
Go Dirty Birds
By Tyler
January 3, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this
FALCONS SUCK
By drewbear
January 3, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this
The Falcons did not do ANYTHING different on O or D this game. If you do not change what you do in the playoffs, you go home. Period.
By tom
January 3, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this
Thanks for a great season Falcons. Would have loved to see them get the ball one more time, but Arizona came to play and made the big plays when they had to this game. Some mistakes all over, but some bright spots also. We had a great halftime party here.
Abraham on the sideline at the end of the game ready for tears said it all for me. These guys are a team and hopefully some of the holes will be filled this next year. Dimetroff and Smith are smart and I am already looking forward to the draft.
Go Falcons and thanks again for all the excitement.
By Da Real Real
January 3, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this
crabapplejoe you really are a true idiot. I’m pretty sure Keith Brooking, on that last play, was lined up on the strong side of the play. Yeah, he may show on the depth chart as a weakside linebacker but he was playing on the strong side on that play so guess what…he was the strong side linebacker that play. Oh and I’m sure Keith will be the first one to admit and tell you joe, that he blew the coverage on that play. Everybody could see it but you joe because you’re the “smart one” right? It’s kind of hard to be that when more fans and even Chris Collinsworth (who I rarely agree with) pointed out that Keith missed his assignment.
I don’t recall saying Keith lost the game for the Falcons. As I said in my first few sentences, the Falcons lost this game as a team. Now I’m done entertaining you and your comments joe.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 8:52 PM | Link to this
Hey VS2, LMAO….THEY ALREADY BLAMING RODDY, LMAO, JUST LIKE WE PREDICTED These fans are straight up losers. They just loved Roddy last week,lol.
By Danny G
January 3, 2009 8:54 PM | Link to this
Arizona wanted it more. Next year, Blank will get us a few more key players and we will be back. Thanks for the hope this year Falcons!
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this
Let me guess…..Roddy White is a bust now,LMAO. Thats what Ryan gets for locking onto one reciever. Montana never did that, LMAO!!!!!!
By dave
January 3, 2009 8:57 PM | Link to this
I guess I read this blog just to remind me what a bunch on loser the Falcons have for fans. Sure, they lost the game, but this TEAM are winners. More than can be said of many of you!
By WILL
January 3, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this
IWILL NEVER SUPPORT A FRANCHISE IN ATLANTA EVER IWILL BURN MY HAT NOW , THE REFEREES WON THE POINT SPREAD WAS ATLANTA -3 WOUND UP ATLANTA PLUS 2 THE REFEREES MADE MONEY TODAY, BECAUSE THE ONLY THING THAT BEAT THE FALCONS WAS THE REFEREES.
By Sarah Palin
January 3, 2009 8:59 PM | Link to this
Most of you idiots claimed Matt Ryan was the ONLY reason this team made it to the playoffs…NOW you want to blame everybody else for this lost.
Football is a TEAM sport!!
By Ralphie
January 3, 2009 9:01 PM | Link to this
It’s the Falcons. Would you expect anything else. They have, will and will always SUCK!
By william cranman
January 3, 2009 9:02 PM | Link to this
Man, no football for 8 months. That’s why these games hurt so much. The off season is so long. Hawks with a heartbreaker last night and folding again tonight. Garner looking like he is going to UT.Talk about depressing.
By Judy
January 3, 2009 9:02 PM | Link to this
Great season Falcons! Next season will be even better.
By Vick Supporter
January 3, 2009 9:03 PM | Link to this
@RYAN SUPPORTER 2
I appreciate you noticing that I predicted that Edgerin James would have a good game. I support Vick, but Ryan will be a great QB too.
By Mike Vick
January 3, 2009 9:07 PM | Link to this
Please STOP mentioning my name on this blog. I’ve been bashed enough over the last 2 years.
I NEVER had a Mike Turner in my backfield, I never had a decent O-Line and my defense sucked. Roddy White and Michael Jenkins couldn’t catch a cold when I was behind center.
Again, please STOP with the comparisons and let me serve my time.
By onedawg
January 3, 2009 9:08 PM | Link to this
Vick is gone. Get over it.
By ed
January 3, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this
Can’t turn the ball over in the playoffs simple as that 2 int 1 fumble = LIMA two horrible ints and fumble Roddy white is still Sorrrrrrrry can’t make that big time catch like the great receivers do.
By Stu
January 3, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this
Looks like Arthur pulled the trigger a little to quickly on raising the ticket prices!!! While the Falcons are improved and nice to see them playing hard, they have shown that they are still a ways away from competing with the elite. Because of the great record, there will be no Raiders, Chiefs, Lions, and Rams next year. They also needed alot of luck to win other games althought it is nice to see the ball bounce the Falcons way for a change. So they gain a tougher schedule, and now will draft further down. The Falcons still need a lot of good football players to be good on a consistent basis. With Arthur’s greediness, it is going to still be a tough sell to fill seats next year! My wish for the new year is that Arthur continues to develop as an NFL owner
By John
January 3, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this
Terrell Suggs I beleve will be a free agent next season. Hey guy, how about Suggs for Brooking??????? Makes sense!!!
By Prof
January 3, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this
**CUT KEITH BROOKING NOW!!! How can you let the tight end run right by you? Don’t you get the defensive assignments? Are the calls not piped into your helmet headset? Are you not a captain on the team? How then, do you miss your assignment on literally the most important play of the game?!?!?!?! This has been typical of your play ALL SEASON! So what if the running back caught the ball! He would not have gotten the first down. Thanks a lot!
Let’s hope he is walking home from Arizona right now. Better yet, let’s hope he never got on the plane.**
By CJDawg
January 3, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this
I want to say thanks to the Falcons for making this a year to remember. I’ve ben a fan since the mid Bartkowski years and I always will be. I look forward to seeing what we can do next year. Just think, next year, the falcons should be better with our front office having more time to pick and choose their type of players. I hope we can find a quality pass catching TE and a dominant LB. Again, thanks to all the falcons players and coaches. I enjoyed the ride.
By The Truth
January 3, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this
WHY DIDN’T WE CUT THAT DANG NERD FIVE YEARS AGO! HE COST US A CHANCE TO WIN THE GAME!!! WHO JUMPS A RUN ON THIRD AND 16?
AND I THOUGHT NERDS WERE SUPPOSED TO BE SMART!!!
By Stu
January 3, 2009 9:15 PM | Link to this
Looks like Arthur pulled the trigger a little to quickly on raising the ticket prices!!! While the Falcons are improved and nice to see them playing hard, they have shown that they are still a ways away from competing with the elite. Because of the great record, there will be no Raiders, Chiefs, Lions, and Rams next year. They also needed alot of luck to win other games althought it is nice to see the ball bounce the Falcons way for a change. So they gain a tougher schedule, and now will draft further down. The Falcons still need a lot of good football players to be good on a consistent basis. With Arthur’s greediness, it is going to still be a tough sell to fill seats next year! My wish for the new year is that Arthur continues to develop as an NFL owner
By Longtimer
January 3, 2009 9:15 PM | Link to this
OK…Sorry it’s over, but a far better year than expected after trying to overcome a backfired coaching hire(Petrino) and a franchise face who turned out to be an overated, dog-killing, lying piece of human waste(MV7). I look forward to “the process” continuing with a staff that seems to get the concept of NFL success. What we learned today: 1. KB56 has been done for years…too slow 2. The O line was not yet ready for prime time, lots of players with little big game experience (P.S. why was Baker getting long minutes coming off an injury, when Weiner was steady & has playoff experience?) The fumbled handoff in the backfield, which was the difference in this game, was purely on the o-line. 3. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not let C. Houston23 be our starting corner next year. The first overated AZ score was cause 23 couldn’t get his hips turned without stumbling (check the replay). 4. AZ will get STOMPED in either Carolina or NY. 5. Hopefully VS & VS2 will find some other cause to trumpet, or be in jail for general idiocy, and be gone from the blogs next season. BTW…the schedule for 09 is frigging BRUTAL…check it. See you TRUE fans in August…
By falcon21
January 3, 2009 9:16 PM | Link to this
fu vs and vs2, Ryan played his a* off but he cannot play D and also catch the f###king ball!!!
By falconsince78
January 3, 2009 9:16 PM | Link to this
This hurts. The 3 turnovers hurt, but the biggest hurt was Keith and Curtis blowing the coverage that clinched the game for the Cardinals. I’m proud of these boys, how expected 11-5 and a trip to the playoffs. Like the true fans, I would have loved to see Matt come up w/under 2 minutes to play and have to drive 80+ yards w/o timeouts. All you Vick posers need to get a life. Vick would’ve had Atlanta still at 4-12 this year. Wake up!!!!! Why can’t you idiots see this. I have been a fan forever and knew this after Ryan’s first pass play against Detroit. Mr. Dimitroff, please fix the D. I think all we need is a MLB, corner, safety, OL, TE, and reserve DL. I looked at our schedule, 8-0 at the dome in 2009!
By john
January 3, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this
Terrell Suggs, I beleve will be a free agent next season. Hey , how about Brooking fro Suggs??? Make Sense!!!!
By Former Season Ticket Holder
January 3, 2009 9:18 PM | Link to this
I’m willing to bet that 95% of you guys on this blog aren’t season ticket holders…..put your money where your mouth is punks!
Arthur Blank will be filing bankruptcy by 2010….he spent most of his money this season buying tickets…..and the Dome still had thousands of empty seats…lol
You MV haters can hate all you want, but this fact still remains…there were THOUSANDS of fans on the waiting list for season tickets during his era…..where are they now??
Mike Vick kept the lights on at Flowery Branch and at the Georgia Dome….deal with it!!
By The Truth
January 3, 2009 9:21 PM | Link to this
I am BLACK and I was one of the BIGGEST Vick fans in the world. I have a Vick Jersey and his autographed picture up in my office. However, EVERYONE HOLDING ON NEEDS TO LET IT GO! The feds made an example out of him and we have moved past it. It is time for everyone else to move past it too.
By Chuck
January 3, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking should have been cut years ago…he probably makes (1) one big play per season…..However, he’s a home grown good ole boy, so he has NOTHING to worry about!!
You get rid of a probowler like Alge Crumpler but keep a Keith Brooking…..this organization gets what they deserve!!
By HJ
January 3, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this
GeorgeW, did you really say to criticize Matt Ryan is racist? Let’s get something straight here…I was a Vick supporter, but my support of him had nothing to do with race. I thought he was an exceptional football player and brought excitement to the team and city. He made some bad decisions that I can’t excuse…END OF STORY!
I think Ryan had a great season as a rookie and came back after a slow start tonight, but he made some bad rookie mistakes…that’s fair game for criticism. I wouldn’t blame the loss on his performance though.
By FREEDOG
January 3, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this
For the love of the Falcons, Brooking please retire. You’re a good guy and were a great player but your time has passed.
By Dan
January 3, 2009 9:31 PM | Link to this
C’mon guys - can’t we all get along? The Cards played the perfect game, stopped Turner, we gave them 2 TDs - 1 on a lucky fluke play and their punting was perfect. No running game equals too much pressure on the QB yet Ryan almost pulled it out. This was a dream year after all what has happened. Let’s build on it and keep getting better. Maybe its time for Brooking to move on. I love what he’s done but he seems to have lapses. Three more seconds and we would have had home field and a bye week. A great year - none the less.
By 3 and out!
January 3, 2009 9:31 PM | Link to this
Great Year for the Falcons… but they need to blame the loss on the following folks.
Matt Ryan - his play has been horrible in the last 4 games. INT’s = Loss… no way around it. Afraid to run, we need that because his receivers could not separate themselves quickly. Vick had that covered for sure. Poor judgement on too many throws.
Mr. Mularley- the Offensive Coordinator. Play calling has been as boring as the Business news on PBS. 1st down run, 2nd down run, 3rd down pass…4th down punt. Very lame play calling, no heart, no creativity, no instictive plays that catch the other team off guard. My 63 year Mother In Law asked why they tried the same BS run plays over and over again when they weren’t working. He needs to go.
Mike Smith - Had the heart to go for a 4th down when their back was against the wall but poor clock management has killed them. Where was the hurry up offense in the 4th quarter? Where were the short throws to the sidelines so the receivers could get out of bounds to stop the clock? Where was commitment to the passing game after the Cardinals shut down M. Turner and the run game.
Look at the last few games, some crappy teams exposed the Falcons and their weaknesses and he did nothing to overcome them. They lost to Denver, The Rams came in and made them look bad and they almost lost to the Vikings who did everything they could to give them the game. The decline started weeks ago and he did not fix it.
I hope this does not carry over into the 09 season. Now I feel like a Cubs fan…We’ll get em NEXT year.
By hahaha
January 3, 2009 9:32 PM | Link to this
ENOUGH with “oh well we had a great year.”…..HOG WASH!! All of you nitwits thought the falcons would beat the cardinals and possibly make it to the superbowl….NOT!! hahaha
By Tim
January 3, 2009 9:37 PM | Link to this
No doubt, this loss is painful. Still, the season was tremendous and far exceeded anyone’s expectations. I am a season ticket holder and have been for many years. I’ve seen a lot of bad Falcons teams. I can honestly say, that I am more optimistic about where the team is and its prospects for the future than I’ve ever been. Now, as sports fans in Atlanta maybe folks should turn their attention to the Hawks. If you haven’t noticed, they’re doing pretty well this year. Remarkably well actually. And like the Falcons, they have some young players and there’s plenty of reason to be optimistic about their potential down the road too. As for the Falcons, this loss will not overshadow the great season the team gave us. Yes, there are things that need to be addressed, but the team has some key people to build around going forward. I like Dimitroff and Smitty. They will make us proud for years to come. Keep the faith. Support the Hawks too. As for the Braves, we better pray a little. Or a lot.
By AtlMike
January 3, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this
KEITH BROOKING LOST THIS GAME! Does Brooking have pictures of Arthur Blank or something? Why, why do you waste your money and keep this guy? Why can’t you see what we see every game from Brooking which is nothing!!! Let him go!
By roger
January 3, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this
“by 3 and out”, take a valium and go to bed, you don’t have a clue. Arizona just came ready to play more than the Falcons. I will take the Falcons over any other team in the next few years with the great, young core players we have. They had a great season with the QB and 1st year coach. Many NFL cities would love to be in our shoes next year.
By Falcons should Move
January 3, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this
The F-A-L-C-O-N-S are pathetic.
It’s time Atlanta got a new football team. The Falcons need to move out of they ciy of Atlanta and to some place like Lawrenceville or Duluth.
The Falcons need to drop Keith Brooking, this guy is out of shape, tired and old. He has never been an ATLANTA standout. He’s riding on his ATLANTA roots, and the roots have dried up…
It’s time to send Keith Brooking packing.
The Falcons will never win a super bowl. I hope the Falcons move to Austell, Doraville, Sandy Springs, Macon or even Rome, Ga.
By PMC
January 3, 2009 9:46 PM | Link to this
Well, that was depressing. Schultz if you can manage it please have Bradley hold of on the almost expected fluff positive piece I know he’s got in the tank for this. We need to learn how to sulk as a city and look at the negative. This is awful. 11-5 and our Falcons lose to a team that hasn’t won at home since 1947. I respect that it’s a process, but who knows when we’ll be back again. We can be positive again in April at the draft. Everyone is hopeful of course and proud of the year, just not now. This one hurt.
By BosnianBaller
January 3, 2009 9:51 PM | Link to this
If you think your going to build on this next year good luck.because the nfl does not work like that.I have a feeling we are going to suck again next year.remember no back to back winning seasons in the history of the franchise
By MV POS
January 3, 2009 9:51 PM | Link to this
MV = Arena league star. Oh, sorry, that league folded. Maybe MV should just go with the league. Piece of sh*t that he is.
By Get A Grip!
January 3, 2009 9:51 PM | Link to this
Does anyone else besides me wonder..wtf is NBC thinking in hiring MATT MILLEN to provide commentary on these games???????? WTF does he know about football? Can you say Detroit Lions???????????? He couldn’t anaylize a receipe.
PS: Get OFF the FALCONS back! They did a FREAKIN GREAT Job in 2008!Thanks!
By Kurt
January 3, 2009 9:52 PM | Link to this
The fact is, you guys kind of had to play the short pass on the throw to Spach, because if the Cardinals completed something underneath that put us in field goal range, we could have put the Falcons down by 9, which with no timeouts left you’re basically out of it. I wonder why nobody has mentioned that anywhere. Forcing the longer throw was not a bad idea, it just didn’t pan out this time.
By Maria
January 3, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this
Nice job, Falcons!!! I’m pound of everyone - from Mr. Blank to the ticket-takers. Total class!!!! Can’t wait unitl next season. GO FALCONS!!!
By Scooter
January 3, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this
Great year Atlanta. Yeah, we’re sad that you did couldn’t pull off yet another win, but man, what a year. Who would have ever thought after coming off of a 4 win season, could a team come back from that. Though out the “vick” years, I wasn’t too proud of Atlanta. This group of players brought class and professionalism to Atlanta that has been missing for several years now. I can’t hardly wait for next season.
By Sarah H.
January 3, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this
Drop Keith Brooking and move the Falcons.
* Atlanta needs a REAL football team, b/c the Falcons are a bad joke. I hope the Falcons move out of Atlanta.*
Drop Keith Brooking
The Falcons are an embarrasment to Atlanta.
I hope the Falcons move to Brunswick, Georgia.
Drop Keith Brooking.
By Maria
January 3, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this
Seriously - Matt Millen? He has a lot of nerve.
By Lisa
January 3, 2009 10:00 PM | Link to this
It’s truly laughable reading all of these comments from the football “experts”. You all can solve all the problems. But, I don’t see you on the sidelines or wearing a Falcons uniform. Most of ya’ll never even played football and you are telling professionals how to do their job. Pathetic. You fat, overweight, slobs couldn’t even run 50 yards without puking…much less last 4 quarters in an NFL game. And Vick Supporter….you said “you people”. Can you imagine if a white person said “you people”….it would be Al and Jesse time in Atlanta.
By New Staff...Same Mistakes!
January 3, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this
Why is it no matter who’s coaching, they ALWAYS FORGET about Norwood in the big games. Hey guys…if you’re not going to use him, trade him for talent you will use! How many huge plays has he broken at just the right time this year, to get 2 rushes and one pass thrown his way is unbelievable!
By drewbear
January 3, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this
No imagination on the Falcons part. they did not put any wrinkles in their gameplan AT ALL SOS gets you the SOS.
By BosnianBaller
January 3, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this
THIS CITY IS CURSED IN SPORTS THE SOONER YOU REALIZE IT THE EASIER IT IS TO ACCEPT THAT WE SUCK.WE SUCK WE SUCK.NAME A SPORT AND WE SUCK.F***
By Eric C.
January 3, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this
Jack…I’ve wondered the same thing, why wasn’t Norwood utilized more? Turner looked slow and Norwood’s speed seemed to affect the Cardinals defense more.
This loss hurts right now…but it was still a great season for the Falcons.
I agree about Matt needing a stronger arm…it has hurt him a few times.
By Glanville
January 3, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this
Questions/thoughts for next year:
By monty
January 3, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this
Does anyone remember last year?!! Just let it go people. It was a great year and hopefully a stepping stone.
By Tim
January 3, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this
Hey, Sarah H. - What does the H. stand for? Hor, perhaps? Or maybe, Hopelessly as in hopelessly retarded? ESAD.
By ME
January 3, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this
Dear Lisa, dude, and I mean as in MALE, why do you need a female name? Just feel better in panties?
By Julie A Former Falcon Fan
January 3, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this
No wonder we were a wild card.
Where was Keith Brooking? I didn’t see him in this game? He had his head in the sand the whole game.
The whole game.
By WhereisHarryCarry'sHONESTY?
January 3, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this
pathetic!
By WhereisHarryCarry'sHONESTY?
January 3, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this
pathetic!
By Sarah B
January 3, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this
Oh Well, this season was a great ride. Ryan, Roddy and Turner did not suck today - you guys kill me. The truth is props to Fitzgerald and the refs and also the ARI D. They will be killed on the road to either Carolina or he Giants. See you in OTA’s, spring training, camp and the pre-season and the rest of the year from 342 row 6… Great ride Falcons and Brooking is done… draft more D this year…
By Sarah B
January 3, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this
Oh Well, this season was a great ride. Ryan, Roddy and Turner did not suck today - you guys kill me. The truth is props to Fitzgerald and the refs and also the ARI D. They will be killed on the road to either Carolina or he Giants. See you in OTA’s, spring training, camp and the pre-season and the rest of the year from 342 row 6… Great ride Falcons and Brooking is done… draft more D this year…
By Phill
January 3, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this
The Falcons have never had two winning seasons in a row look forward to a Loosing season next year
By Jerry Glanville
January 3, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this
Roddy “I got it” White has dropped more wide open balls than anyone in NFL history. He turned the momentum of this game and many others with his drops. I’ll never forget his wide open drop when Vick put it right into his hands on national TV. Tonight he drops 3, one that a third grader would have caught. WHY won’t they give the ball to Norwood? He always produces and ran with confiction tonight, unlike Turner who went down like Dunn used to when anyone got near him. TRADE WHITE, retire Brooking (who had a great career), get a big time wide reciever, the middle linebacker we drafted is a BUST, we need 2 new linebackers that can HIT. And make Norwood the starting back, bring Turner in after defense has gotten tired. Season grade is a B+. REMEMBER, THE ATLANAT FALCONS HAVE NEVER MADE THE PLAYOFFS 2 YEARS STRAIGHT IN HISTORY!Next year we must break the curse.
By Sarah H.
January 3, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this
I agree Julie. Keith Brooking needs to get his head out of the sand and wake up.
Drop Keith Brooking.
Brooking was totally missing in that game. But what’s new?
We can only hope that the Falcons will move out of Atlanta next year and the city can get a real team.
Drop Keith Brooking.
By dan
January 3, 2009 10:32 PM | Link to this
The city of Atlanta is just cursed when it comes to sports. How many other cities have 4 major sports teams but only 1 title to show for it ? And how in the world did the Braves only win 1 world series between 1991 and 2005 ? Even the freaking Marlins won 2 in that time span.
By Sarah B
January 3, 2009 10:33 PM | Link to this
Oh well, it was a great ride - Thanks Falcons for a great season. Ryan, Roddy and Turner did not suck, props to Fitzgerald, the refs and the ARI D to step it up. But seriously the game should have been here the better record should host regardless…. oh and draft more D and I agree Brooking is done… See you next year section 342 row 6. I’ll be back.
Sarah B and Sarah H you are full of it!
By stendec
January 3, 2009 10:36 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking is to the Falcons what Kari Letemin is to the Loseland Toiletlids (Thrashers). A big fat liability! I hate both the untalented sons of betches.
By jon
January 3, 2009 10:38 PM | Link to this
By David Lee
January 3, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
I would like to punch Keith Brooking in the face.<<
Mr. Lee, I would pay to see that.
He’s not that hard to find. Go do it.
Or are you just an 18-25 male who’s a little pumped up on himself? Go ahead, punk! Find Keith Brooking. Take one of your homeys with you to video the whole thing. Hit him. Post the video on You Tube - just don’t stop the video too soon.
By Ravens fan in the ATL
January 3, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this
I like ATL’s chances in the next 3 to 4 years. Top RB’s, good OL, improved DL, and an excellent staff. Need new blood for LB’s and DB’s but that will come. Home field advantage in the next three years.
By Sue-Ella
January 3, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this
Okay, I just have to ask.
Did anyone else take advantage of the holiday sales?
I bought a great Ralph Lauren shirt for J.R. and Bobby for 75 percent off retail, this morning.
By Sam
January 3, 2009 10:43 PM | Link to this
Look at the Falcons history following a winning season. Does anyone honestly think that’ll change. I hope so. Time’ll tell.
By Sara-Lee
January 3, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking does look a little chunky.
By Sara Lee
January 3, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this
Keith Brooking does look a little chunky.
By TheOriginalCardsFan
January 3, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this
This loss shouldn’t be a shock. After all, ATL was favored by a measly 2 points, which meant that even the booksmakers thought this game would’ve gone either way. The Cards were known for their powerful offense, but the only thing that was known nationally was their major losses at the end of the season (since the Cards had nothing to play for by wrapping up the NFC West early). It’s amazing how fast the national sports media buries a team when all they see are highlights (or lowlights) of a team losing. No wonder the Cards got such a bad rap at the end of the regular season - but obviously these same folks who thought the Cards would lose to ATL didn’t see or remember what they did to DAL and BUF earlier in the season (when each team was either 4-0 or 4-1). And people forget to that the Cards were rushing quite well in the beginning of the season but got away from running the ball because the air offense was that good.
It was a good game, but the fact is, the better team won this year, despite their records, and no, it wasn’t luck the Cards won. (I know Matt Ryan is good, but I’ll take a super-bowl mvp at QB in the playoffs then any star rookie.. no matter how good he may be.) I’m sure ATL will be back in the playoffs next year, and so will AZ.. so let’s hope to see each other again real soon - the game was fun.
By Sarah B
January 3, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this
Sarah H - yeah right Brunswick??? Why would we want to move to the swamp??? Oh yeah lots of people down there - HA HA
By callmeguf
January 3, 2009 10:58 PM | Link to this
I’ve spent the last few days reading your hillbilly rag, poor excuse for a paper by the way, and really enjoyed all the negitive and ugly commentary written by the in-bred reporters and welfare cheese eating fans. I really enjoyed yesterdays semi-headline, “God let us play football in Janurary against the hapless Cardinals in the desert”, wow, bet ya’ll didn’t see this one comming!! Your over-rated group of booger eatin’ morons put on a wonderful display of “at least we won more than the Lions” style of professional wannabes. Out played, out coached and out of the play-offs. Your organization is by far, hick. I now understand why Vick “went to the dogs”, they are much tougher, have more pride, know how to compete and fight to win !! Thanks for all the ugly print on a very solid team, I know it helped spark the desire to win. I live in and love Phoenix, it’s everything Snotlanta isn’t and will never be, beautiful, hot, happy and home to an advancing pro football team. GO CARDINALS!!! Love to all, Guf.
By jonaltmann
January 3, 2009 10:58 PM | Link to this
First off good season for the Falcons. Way to go Atlanta. We lost to a better team. I dont blame the refs becuase our DB’s were holding and interfering with the Cards recievers on every play. Especially Fitzgerald.
I blame the local media for not letting us know how good Arizona was and setting us up for a disappointing loss. Who the heck watches Arizona games anyway. I forget they even have a team sometimes. But I do expect the local media to give some real insight on them. (I dont expect anything from national media cuz its just one big Manning bros PR team.)
I dont think any ATL sports writers even watched Arizona games to let us know they were way better than us. They just kicked our butts despite the refs keeping us in the game by ignoring. They are tougher on both lines than us and kicked us around.
Since Arizona plays in the lowsy division they clinched the title like halfway through the season. i think they held players out and didnt use their packages after they clinched and saved it all for the playoffs.
At least we can start to concentrate on the draft. Unfair thing is Arizona is so good they are going to go to the NFC champ game and still have a higher draft pick than ATL. Because they dogged it after they clinched and won that crap division with a 9-7 record they are going to have like the #15 pick in the draft and sign free agents. Not fair.
By Moxie
January 3, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this
Very painful loss. Micheal Turner did not show up but who can blame him? A domestic dispute and a death in the family in one week is too much for even the most level headed person. I LOVE MATT RYAN! So he did have 2 int but he kept this team in the game. For the first time all season the offense was the reason why we lost. Hopefully they resign Foxy and get quality players to help us win the divison and make it deep in the playoffs. I really hope that history or the curse of being a team in atl doesnt come into effect next season. I hope we defy all odds and win it all next season! -Moxie
By Great Falconi
January 3, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this
jonaltmann,
The Cards will not have a better pick than the Falcons. The regular season record does not factor into draft positions for playoff teams. The Falcons will have a higher pick in the draft because they lost to Arizona.
By Dirt Dobber
January 3, 2009 11:12 PM | Link to this
I have been a fan since 1966 and this is the way it has been for 40 something years.Now i am becomeing and old man wateing for the Falcons to win thier first superbowl or back to back winning seasons. It just an’t gonna happen.Its been one disapointment after another.It don’t matter who buys the team or who coach’es the team.We just can’t get over the hump.
By Dane
January 3, 2009 11:31 PM | Link to this
Sure could have used Glenn Dorsey TODAY!!! Just maybe we could have stopped E. James a bit. Offense sells tickets, Defense wins Championships!!!! Oh well we will never know about this year. Draft defense/free agent defense. Go FALCONS 2009!!!
By REDBIRDRAGE
January 3, 2009 11:56 PM | Link to this
YOU GOT BEAT BY THE ARIZONA CARDINALS, HOW DOES THAT FEEL- THE CARDINALS, YOUR FALCONS COULDN’T EVEN BEAT THE CARDINALS!
THANKS FOR TAKING US LIGHTLY
By Dixie Dawg
January 4, 2009 12:02 AM | Link to this
You can always tell the fair weather fans from the real ones.
MR2 didn’t have his best game and some people on here are ready to crucify him. This sounds like a New York Times blog or something.
The fans are rough in here. I was disappointed in the loss too, and we could have done some things differently. But, we made it this far.
I am proud of my team, I am proud of the way Arthur Blank, Thomas Dimitroff, and Mike Smith have come in here and gave us a good football team.
I am also STILL proud of Matt Ryan and his amazing abilities. Sure, he had some “rookie” moments, but he still played with heart.
People, please don’t give up on these boys. They shouldn’t hang their heads and neither should we. Sure, it sucks and all, but think about what we have overcome. I’ll leave it at that.
By Niiik the Panther
January 4, 2009 12:07 AM | Link to this
i blame NBC, Chris Collisworth and his creepiness, the man with the woman eyelashes next to him, and last but defiently not least…. THE OFFICALS!!!!! You guessed it! It is impossible for a game to go by w/o the officals not throwing their flags…..i saw at least 5 offsides that went uncalled and that damn fumble return for td was a offside too! I have come up with the conclusion that the NFL is scripted and that only the officals know it…..I HATE THE CARDINALS!!!!!! The Panthers or Giants will handle that and more. Please dont assume the Cards are a good team. the falcons had distractons. The cards will show their true ever sucking colors and be victimized hopefully by the panthers!!!! OUT!
By REDBIRDRAGE
January 4, 2009 12:23 AM | Link to this
* Niiik the Panther - You are a jack-hole! Whhaaaaaa, the ref’s cost us the game…Are you kidding me?*
There were misses calls all game on both sides, AZ made more plays-period.
By Getaway
January 4, 2009 2:02 AM | Link to this
All Ariz needed to do was pick up 10 yds to get back in field goal range and put the game away. Maybe Brooking was out of position maybe not. I’m not jumping on him because Collinsworth decided to point Brooking out. Where was the Safety? Is the WSLB really supposed to be 22 yrds downfield when a field goal can put the game away?
By 35YearBravesFan
January 4, 2009 7:55 AM | Link to this
What a great season for us fans!!!! We are proud of our team once again. Next year will be a contiuation and improvement I have no doubt.
GO FALCONS!!
By Falcon in JAX
January 4, 2009 12:02 PM | Link to this
CUT BRooking over rated butt!!! but falcons will be ready next seasons. GO FALCONS!!!!!
By X Fan
January 4, 2009 1:00 PM | Link to this
Good morning Bloggers——And now to the point.TO HELL WITH WiTH THE FALCONS.
By Elliott Wienstroer
January 4, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this
I think it’s time for #56 to throw in the towel. Let’s face it, he’s not what he use to be. The Falcons need to focus highly on the linebacker position in the upcoming draft. James Laurinaitis out of Ohio State looks like a really good catch if he’s available.
By crabapplejoe
January 4, 2009 8:54 PM | Link to this
AtlMike wrote: “KEITH BROOKING LOST THIS GAME! Does Brooking have pictures of Arthur Blank or something?” Darn, you must have been watching another game. You see, Keith Brooking didn’t get beat for two long touchdowns….that would be the great “defensive leader” Lawyer Milloy. Keith Brooking put more pressure on Kurt Warner than the mighty John (2 tackles, no sacks) Abraham. Keith Brooking sure as heck didn’t fumble the ball that lost us the game. That would be Michael “I ain’t takin’ responsibilty” Turner. And Brooking didn’t walk out of bounds instead on into the endzone like Mr. Jenkins did. And Mr. Brooking didn’t drop more passes than a good looking girl at the bar like Roddy “pro-bowl” White did. But you just selected Keith Brooking to diss. Did he steal your girlfriend or do you just not like Caucasian players?