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DEL.ICIO.USUnder Mora, no one-year wonders
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
Jim Mora says he doesn’t mention the Falcons’ history of frustration â€â€? in 39 years of trying, this franchise hasn’t yet had consecutive winning seasons â€â€? to his players, but sometimes that negative nugget arises on its own. And, rather tellingly, it gets dashed to smithereens.
“I was talking with Pat [Kerney, the defensive end] this week, and he said, ‘The heck with 9-7 â€â€? we want to win a championship,’ ” Mora said Wednesday. “We look at nine wins as something we’d pass on the way to 10 or 11.”
Or to the Super Bowl. The Falcons nearly got there last season, and more than halfway through preseason they look capable of going further this time. Yes, there are questions about the receivers â€â€? more about them in a moment â€â€? but there’s no doubting this team’s growing sense of self.
Little things have gone wrong, but little things go wrong everywhere. What’s notable about the Falcons is their grasp of the coach’s theme for this training camp. “We wanted to maintain and recapture that sense of urgency you have at the start of every project,” Mora said, “and the players have really embraced that. I really don’t even have to mention it.”
Billy Knight has spoken at length about the need to “change the culture” of the downtrodden Hawks. Mora uses the same word so often â€â€? “culture” â€â€? that he looked it up in the dictionary to make sure he was invoking it correctly. (He was. The irritating thing about Mora is that he tends to be right.) He didn’t come here from San Francisco to be part of a one-year wonder; he came here to win as big and as often as the 49ers used to win. And he’s on his way.
“You want an environment or a culture that’s conducive to winning,” he said. “A lot of that has to do with who you let in the door. It’s like the Braves or the Patriots: We’re looking for a certain kind of player, and we’re asking, ‘Do they fit what we want ourselves to be?’ … Last year we got rid of some guys who were slowing the boat down.”
Last year the Falcons were learning a new offense and a new defense and were acclimating themselves to a new coaching staff. They now know where to stand and what to do. With the mass substitution inherent in exhibition games, it’s hard to get a glimpse of any sort of continuity, but what you saw in the Falcons’ opening drive against Tennessee last week â€â€? a zippy march culminating in Michael Vick’s touchdown pass to Brian Finneran â€â€? seemed a sign of an offense beginning to find its stride.
“We’re less a West Coast offense and more â€â€? I don’t know â€â€? a Mike Vick movement offense,” Mora said. “Greg [Knapp, the offensive coordinator] is fitting our system to our players.”
Regarding players: Would Mora be comfortable starting the regular season with these wide receivers? “Yeah,” he said. “We’ve got a couple of young guys [Michael Jenkins and Roddy White] who are going to continue to get better, but Roddy [who has a bad ankle] has to get on the field. I think there’s been so much focus on the receivers that it’s gotten a little bit overblown. Think about Philadelphia’s success going to the NFC championship game: Before T.O. [Terrell Owens] got there last year, could you have named any of their wide receivers? What’s important is to be balanced and have the same strength we had in the running game.”
If you can run, you’ll be able to throw no matter how unassuming your wideouts might be. That’s basic football. The Falcons might not be the slickest crew in creation, but they’re getting pretty good at the basics. They don’t look like a team grown fat on sudden success. They look lean and hungry.
Permalink | Comments (25) | Categories: Falcons / NFL, Mark Bradley
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By William Kitchens
August 24, 2005 11:16 PM | Link to this
A great read Mark!
This is the coach and orgainization Atlanta has been waiting for. One to make us homers start looking good.
I think the fans (I know I am) are no longer just blindly optimistic about each coming season now, but actually optimistic about the birth of a winning dynasty. And without critics.
By Evan
August 25, 2005 02:07 AM | Link to this
I recall back in 1981 - although only 13 - that I was extremely positive about the Falcons chances following a great season. Injuries and whatever killed that season. Same with the June Jones era - I thought the team was heading up until it basically imploded. Yes, the Falcons have been unfortunate not to have back to back winning seasons or something remotely resembling a dynasty. However, that was primarily due to ownership and the culture it fostered - no question about that.
However, now we have ownership and an organization that I think most fans have a lot of faith in right now. I feel more confident than ever that the Falcons can keep winning.
The Media keeps bringing up the issue of the Falcons supposedly moribund franchise and lack of constistent winning. Personally, I’m over it. I like to look to the future and I know that future is bright. I only look to the past to reflect on the times and players that have brought me much joy.
I can’t wait for the whole back-to-back wining season deal to be over. I expect that will occur come December 2005.
GO FALCONS!!!
By Karl Bryant
August 25, 2005 10:29 AM | Link to this
I agree, this silly obstacle notion of back to back winning seasons is only a stepping stone that gets easily overcome when the players and coaches focus is on winning a championship. The Falcons are not focused on the past, but rather on the future. Imbedding the understanding, “we move in the direction of our thoughts,” I think the Falcons will have winning seasons the fan base will be proud of for many years to come.
By Juan Paxety
August 25, 2005 10:41 AM | Link to this
As a near-geezer, I’ve been waiting for the future since the Falcon’s first attempted kick-off against the Philadelphia Eagles back in 1966. I say attempted kick-off because Wade Traynam missed the ball. Maybe this is finally the coach and management to bring the players who will be winners. After all, in 1990, who would have thought the Braves were on the verge of winning?
By falcon guy
August 25, 2005 11:34 AM | Link to this
A season of at least 9-7 is a foregone conclusion given one stipulation. Vick does not miss more than 5 games due to injury. Schaub is pretty good, but I think it would be stretching it to get 9 wins if Matt has to start more than 5 games. Vick has shown that he wins wherever he is. But we want to advance further than we did last season. To do that, Atlanta has to win home field advantage and force the Eagles (or whoever) to come to the Dome for the NFC Champ. game. Can you imagine the intensity there would be in the Dome? I get goosebumps thinking about it.
By Philip
August 25, 2005 12:18 PM | Link to this
Nice article Mark. As much as I would like to share your optimism about the upcoming season I see some problems. First, our offensive line is pathetic. Second, our defensive line can’t stop the run. Third, our secondary is horrific…teams will pass all over us. And fourth, our schedule is extremely tough this year.
All that said I think this team could actually improve and grow, but end up with a worse record at the end of the season that last year’s 9-7 mark. I just wish they would address the line on both sides of the ball and stop overpaying mediocre players.
By Philip
August 25, 2005 12:40 PM | Link to this
Nice article Mark. I wish that I could share your optimism about the Falcons for 2005. There are a number of problems and obstacles from my perspective that will limit this team’s success. First, the offensive line is pathetic. Second, the defensive line can’t stop the run. Third, the secondary has more holes than Swiss cheese. And lastly, this year’s schedule is extremely tough. All that said, I think it’s highly probable that this team could grow and improve, but still end up with a worse record than the previous year’s mark of 9-7.
I agree that the current owner, coaching staff, and front office that Atlanta has today is a tremendous improvement over years past. However, I just wish they would concentrate on improving the line on both sides of the ball. And please stop overpaying mediocre players…we barely can maneuver under the salary cap because of Price, Dunn, and Webster…just to name a few. Vick isn’t mediocre, but he isn’t worth $100+ million on the field either. Off the field is where the team will recoup the money in merchandising.
By Andy
August 25, 2005 01:21 PM | Link to this
Sorry guys, I am not over it. I will watch the next pre-season games hoping for no injuries and will pop bubbly when the team gets win No. 9. Too many years of losing to forget. Thank goodness for Arthur and Co.
By Al Gore
August 25, 2005 02:24 PM | Link to this
Al Gore invented the Falcons.
By mike rodriguez
August 25, 2005 03:04 PM | Link to this
being a falcon-s fan since ‘77 and now leaving abroad has not stopped me from ever being a true fan. i know, and no longer “i hope” this will be an enlighten season for all. the falcons will have continuos success , they are built for success and with out a doubt will reach the post season with success. all owner ship and management moves show where they are heading. let us all believe that the dinasty is in place.
By Lazy
August 25, 2005 06:45 PM | Link to this
mike, what country are you from? Your spelling is horrible. English is obviously your second language. :-)
By Joe Roman
August 25, 2005 07:34 PM | Link to this
The Falcons are consistently entertaining. That’s news in itself. They are unique in the league too, thanks to Mora and Vick.
Speaking in the context of the Braves shows me Mora has the right concept and context in mind. My only gripe is all this has happened since I left Atlanta.
By Ryan
August 26, 2005 06:31 AM | Link to this
Based on what do you say teh d-line can’t stop the run? THAts absurd. THey were tenth against the run last year. 3.9 YPC. If you take out one ckansas city game where theyre were significant injuried to the line and which, based on the rest of the season, was obviously an abberation… then it drops to 3.66 YPC. THis preseason they seem to have controlled the line quite adequately.
SO what in the heck are you making a judgement of “Defensive Line can’t stop the run’? Did you actually WATCH any games, or even read about them?
By Dave
August 26, 2005 06:53 AM | Link to this
GOt ‘bout 2600 rushing. Gave about 1600. I’d say they contriolled the line well enough.
By wes
August 26, 2005 10:10 AM | Link to this
The comment about the LOS was pretty ignorant. In case any has forgotten so quickly; the Falcons lead the NFL in sacks last year with 48!
By Kenneth Smith
August 26, 2005 12:30 PM | Link to this
The ESPN commentators were quick to point out during last night’s game that the Atlanta Defense was one of the league’s best last year. If the boys in black and red can stay healthy, then our chances of returning to the post season look very good. Chad Lavalais looked very good last night too.
By PreyDawg
August 26, 2005 12:54 PM | Link to this
Juan, Evan, and William,
As a die hard since 1976, I love your optimism. Here’s to all us long term fans. And here’s hoping your optimism is right. We all deserve it.
I am feeling better than ever as well. But am very concerned about the number of passing yards we are giving up. All our stops this preseason seem to be in the red zone.
By Pete
August 27, 2005 08:07 AM | Link to this
The Falcons will win 9 or more every season they have Vick. Crediting Mora for their success is rather humorous to me.
I’m also a bit alarmed Mora cites the “Braves and Patriots” in the same breath as standards to shoot for. Please, Coach, don’t emulate the Braves! We don’t need frist round home playoff swan dives!
By Ed
August 27, 2005 11:04 PM | Link to this
“don’t emulate the Braves!” You have got to be kidding me. The Braves have won more consecutive division championships than any other team in pro sports history. The Falcons could only hope to do as well. These “fans” who can’t appreciate what the Braves have done either have a short memory or weren’t around for the 1970’s teams. Every other team in the NL would trade their last decade for the Braves’ accomplishments in the last ten years… So would the Falcons.
By Pete
August 28, 2005 10:59 AM | Link to this
My point is simply that I don’t want the Falcons to aspire to first round home playoff swan dives, which seem to content the Braves. That’s all.
This is not meant as a challenge, simply an expression of my opinion.
By Ed
August 28, 2005 09:32 PM | Link to this
I understand that we are posting our opinions here…and my opinion is that if the Falcons win their division every year for 13 consecutive years I will be more than satisfied, considering they have never had a winning record 2 years in a row. If the Falcons accomplish over the next 13 years what the Braves did over the last 13 years then I will be ecstatic.
By Ronald
August 28, 2005 10:24 PM | Link to this
Last season wasn’t the out-of-nowhere season the “experts” said it was. Atlanta went 9-6-1 in 2002, 3-1 (with Vick) in ‘03, and 11-5 with Vick in ‘04. There was nothing surprising about the Falcons’ success to those who really follow the team and the game from more than an on-paper standpoint.
While I have some remaining doubts about Jim Mora, Jr., overall, this man is a fine coach. (I think he and Dan Reeves are exact opposites when it comes to their individual strengths and weaknesses.) I like how Mora stresses a winning, professional atmosphere and shows the door to anyone who is unwilling to adhere to it. (I’ve heard he listens to Snoop Dogg, though, and I really have to wonder if he’s just trying to come across as “cool” to the players. If so, don’t do that. Besides, Snoop’s so-called music isn’t any good anyway.)
FINALLY, FINALLY, we’re seeing the departure of the West-Coast Offense!!!!! It might not be as accelerated as I’d like, but at least it’s there. This offensive system might be good for the Jeff Garcias of the world, but not for Michael Vick. I’m thrilled to see it leaving, as it was doing nothing more than impeding number seven.
By Philip
August 30, 2005 12:10 PM | Link to this
Ryan and Dave:
I don’t claim to be an expert, but yes I watched almost every game possible last season. This just happens to be my opinion.
Look who the Falcons played last year and then talk to me about the stopping the run. This year’s the schedule is tougher. Plus, our divisional opponents are better by virtue of their running attacks….the Saints have a healthy Deuce back, the Bucs have Cadillac, and the Panthers have a healthy Stephen Davis backed by Foster, Goings, and Shelton. Anyone that thinks the Falcons have a balanced defensive line is smoking crack. Sure they can rush the passer, but they’re too small to consistently stop a good running attack. When was the last time the Falcons actually drafted a good defensive tackle that started for this team?
As for the offensive line and the 2600+ yards on the ground. Unfortunately run blocking is only half the battle and it’s the easiest type of blocking. On the other side of the coin the Falcons’ offensive line is horrible at pass blocking. They could all be All-Pro matadors with all the “olays” they do every game. Maybe Vick wouldn’t have to dance around so much in the backfield if the offensive line actually gave him some time to throw. If the Falcons had had any other quarterback other than Vick they would be dead right now from the pounding he would have endured.
Y’all can throw out last year’s numbers, stats, and excuses all you want, but the fact is that this organization hasn’t done anything positive to address the problems on the offensive and defensive line in years. And sure the secondary is pitiful, but a good defensive front can make an average secondary look really good.
By Ryan
August 30, 2005 03:23 PM | Link to this
. .RIght.
Ignore the facts and what actually happens, and pay attention to your conjectures?
I think you need to watch the games again if you still hold that opinion. .but I can see that no argument coudl possibly sway you anyhow, as you are utterly convinced of your own genius.
By Dee
August 31, 2005 04:51 PM | Link to this
I believe the falcon will have an O.K. season this year but, the offensive line has to hold up to give Vick a chance to throw. That’s the first problem!!! Second the secondary need to stick to the Wideout and quit getting burnt on every possible takeoff. Other than that, If Vick can’t pass in the pocket and his line holds up he still can run which could destabilize the opposing team defense.