AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2006 > August > 12 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USA win and no injuries
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jeff Schultz
It’s the first series of the first exhibition, and there’s somebody hanging onto Michael Vick’s ankle. Oh joy. My kingdom for the bubblewrap.
“My first year I was here was the year after Mike got hurt [and missed most of the season], and I’d say that was the hardest preseason I’ve ever been through,” Falcons general manager Rich McKay said Friday night. “I knew how much it affected everybody in Atlanta. But I’m really not thinking about that now. At least I wasn’t. You may have just put them back in my head, actually.”
Vick and less significant Falcons made their exhibition debut Friday against New England. The game may forever be remembered for the loudest cheers ever heard for a fourth-string quarterback.
“I stopped during the break and thought, ‘Is that barking I hear?’ ” D.J. Shockley said later, and of course he knew the answer. Shockley, playing his third straight game in the Georgia Dome (SEC title game, Sugar Bowl, pro debut), led a late drive to a field goal in his practice pro unveiling in the Falcons’ 26-23 win over the Patriots.
Also, the Falcons stayed upright. Isn’t that always the primary objective in these things?
Run a few plays, don’t break a leg.
Try a few blitzes, don’t wreck a knee.
Return some punts, don’t crack a rib.
Win. Lose. Whatever.
McKay insists it’s slightly more significant than that in the eyes of an NFL general manager. But then, the man has to say something. His league still charges full retail for games that don’t count.
“The regular season is all about team and result and who wins the game,” he said. “The preseason is 50 percent that and 50 percent how individuals do, particularly the young guys. How do they react to the pressure? How do they react to being in the Dome and playing games? How do they play within our scheme? Do they play as well as they look in practice? And how do they match up against the opponent, because some of the young guys in practice are only going against our twos or our threes?”
Too many questions.
Try this one: Are they breathing?
The last time the Falcons were in the Dome, they looked like extras from “Dawn of the Dead.” Carolina plowed through them with a Winnebago, winning 44-11. The Falcons’ season ended with three straight losses and a 2-6 second half. Some were left questioning the fragility of the roster and the direction of the franchise.
So the initial objective against New England, other than maintaining clean X-rays, should have been to rebuild bridges with their fan base. In some areas, they succeeded. Others, not so good.
Rookie running back Jerious Norwood, who has been impressive in camp, was even better in a game. His 37-yard gain on a screen pass from Matt Schaub and 34-yard touchdown off a short toss from Bryan Randall gave more reason to believe T.J. Duckett should start packing his dishes.
Coach Jim Mora’s impression of Norwood: “He runs fast.”
Sometimes, deep analysis isn’t necessary.
Vick played only one series. He survived Mike Vrabel’s ankle-grab sack, completing three of four passes (26 yards), and added a 16-yard run on third down. But the Falcons were forced to settle for a field goal after having a first down at the Patriots 20.
The bad moments in NFL exhibitions often are more significant than the good ones. For example, it’s more significant that Duckett had a weak 1-yard carry against the Patriots’ No. 1 defense than the fact he had a 20-yarder against the No. 2 defense. While No. 2 receiver Michael Jenkins had a nice grab for a 21-yard touchdown in the first quarter, No. 1 receiver Roddy White had a drop on the first series and allowed cornerback Asante Samuel to knock the ball out of his hands on the second series.
Also not good: The supposedly upgraded run defense was dented for 82 yards in the first quarter. Pats rookie Laurence Maroney (55 yards on six attempts in the first quarter) was left with the impression that the NFL isn’t nearly as tough as the Big Ten.
“It’s not what you want, because [improving] the run defense is a priority of ours,” McKay said. “But when you’re not scheming against them in practice all week, it’s hard to judge a team’s success.”
Otherwise, Friday was a success. Everybody walked away.
Permalink | Comments (44) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons / NFL, Jeff Schultz
Comments
By Daniel
August 12, 2006 01:29 AM | Link to this
I know its only the first preseason game, But our run defense was just as TERRIBLEas last season. We have the likes of reggie Bush, Cadillac and Foster coming at us twice this season. there is no way we are going to be winning against these teams if we are giving up 150 to 200 yards a game with just them running at us. Why throw the ball at us, when it’s so easy to run at us.I like our offense alot. We better find a way to get Norwood the ball, That guy is for real. Our whole season is not about will Michael finally get the offense to his liking and be more comfortable with the play calling, will our wideout mature and run routes and adjust to michael’s throws. It will come down to one key element, Will the falcons stop the run???? How many 3rd down convertions of runs of 8, 15 and 25 are we going to see this season?this continues this will be a rerun of last season, and you can bet Coach Mora and his crew will be searching for new jobs come next season.
By A Thinking Fan
August 12, 2006 03:40 AM | Link to this
Let’s start this year out right - it’s M. Vick’s fault the run defense is bad! LOL!
By President
August 12, 2006 07:29 AM | Link to this
Great column Jeff. The Falcons looked good on balance. I think that we have some depth at QB, RB ,TE, LB and CB. for this we should give Rich McKay alot of credit. We should keep all of our QB and trade Duckett. We desperately need a wide body DT like Brensen Buckner to plug the run and help Shopshire develope (Lavalais should be cut, the guy just cant get his body in shape).I think that Jenkins is ready for primetime. White will be up and down. He will make a great catch and then drop an easy one. No other WR stood out. I think Rick Prohl would be a good fit. Keonen is solid. I just hope he does not burn-out or get tired. We should probably keep a K on the practice squad and use the extra roster spot for depth should we have injury problems elesewhere. I think the TE #89 is a good fit for the Falcons. He will make the roster.
By TD
August 12, 2006 07:52 AM | Link to this
nice summation. I couldn’t get the full view of the ankle grab on Vick until the replay. at least the ref blew a quick whistle.
Bothered me a lot that R. White failed to catch two passes right off the bat. M. Jenkins touchdown grab was pretty impressive as was the sideline grab from Vick. Can’t believe the Falcons replace over 30% of the defense and everyone agree it is an upgrade and they still can’t stop the run. I’m beginning to think it is coaching thing. Either they ain’t listening or someone isn’t doing their job. Converting on a 3rd and 16 on a draw. please. would have liked to seen Shockley and Norwood in the same backfield. Norwood and Dunn coming out of the backfield and catching passes should be a joy to watch this season.
By Vince
August 12, 2006 07:55 AM | Link to this
Fix the run defense and go get Brentson Buckner and plug him in the middle. If you stop the run you can rush the QB.
By TAJ
August 12, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this
The dropped balls by White doesn’t bother me. The runs by Norwood doesn’t impress me. Nor does the last minute drive and field goal or the win. But the run defense, or lack of, irritates me. I’m not willing to sit through another season and watch our defense get hung out to dry like a red neck’s underwear. Somebody needs to step up. Nuff said.
By Football Expert
August 12, 2006 08:47 AM | Link to this
I thought they looked pretty good overall. But the first exhibition doesn’t mean much. The real key to this season is whether or not Vick can get the job done. If he can the Falcons will be in the hunt all year, and if not, oh well!
By eddie
August 12, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this
If we don’t stuff the run this year, we will go 6-10 or worse…..the run defense looked AWFUL, while once again the offense did enough to allow us to win the game…sound familiar? I agree-get Brentsen Buckner-and it looks like TJ Jackson needs to start-he looked like a stud, while Lavalais looks like a bust-he looked lost when Cassel scampered past him for ANOTHER first down…..thank goodness this was pre-season and maybe we can fix our problems….Shockley looked as poised as ever….
By JB
August 12, 2006 09:45 AM | Link to this
First the run defense needs some more work. The O line gave some better pass protection. The RBS are fine the 3rd Qb will eventually be DJ.
By gary
August 12, 2006 10:12 AM | Link to this
“DJ will outVick Mr.Vick”,and I think Mr. Vick is starting to sense it. When DJ is at the helm, Mr. Vick dispenses with his clowning around and becomes very pensive, almost nervous. Maybe he hears the footsteps of DJ easing up behind him. Oh well, some good old fashioned competition is good for a player and the team.PEACE!!!!
By Brian Hunt
August 12, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this
The run defense is horrid. This team is just not physical enough. Why play Coleman on 1rst down at all? He’s a sittuational pass rusher. Get me some widebodies now!
By GTIronman
August 12, 2006 10:42 AM | Link to this
Shockley’s got a gun! Norwood can run, and Knapp calls … well he called an off tackle run with 2 minutes to go that blew a timeout, didn’t have a play to call before the 2 minute warning, and there was general confusion until the not quite dirty on astroturf birds called a timeout to kick a clutch field goal by Cannon Koenen. Sure, some of it’s on Shockley as a rookie, but Knapp doesn’t look like he’s receptive to coaching or learned mucho over the off season.
By Shock and Awe
August 12, 2006 10:50 AM | Link to this
Just wanted to say that it was nice to hear all the barking in the Georgia Dome last night. Hopefully, Shockley will start a trend of drafting UGA players to give some of the home town fans a rooting interest. I’m often torn between supporting the Falcons and some of the other teams they often play who have several Georgia players on the roster. Off the top of my head, New England’s got Ben Watson and Richard Seymour (I don’t know if Patrick Pass is still on their team or not). In any case, the Falcons look like they’re on the right track if they can just get their rush defense figured out. Also, did anyone else notice how much zip DJ put on the ball compared to Randall? With the exception of one bad throw, he had a very impressive NFL debut.
By Shock and Awe
August 12, 2006 10:56 AM | Link to this
Oh, one other thing - that ball fake to start Shockley’s first drive was vintage Mark Richt. If there’s one thing that Richt coaches better than anyone else, it’s the quarterback ball fake. Go Dawgs!
By Ken Strickland
August 12, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this
It was good to see some exciting football for a change. The part that impressed me was how well the 2nd and 3rd teams performed. A weak and inexperienced bench prevented us from overcoming injuries and fatigue last yr and caused our second half collapse. The 2nd teams front 7 was made up of a number of last yrs starters. The overall depth, balance and quality of our reserves is the most exciting part of this team to me. Last yr Lavalais was our starting DT, but this yr, with Jackson’s performance, he might end up #3. And our 3rd and 4th string QB’s seem to have as much, if not more, talent than a lot of 2nd string QB’s. Although our run DEF will improve, we won’t likely shut down most teams running attack, but we should be able to limit the damage. I’d be satisfied with 82yds a game instead of last nights 82yds in the 1st quarter. If our OFF can score points early and control the clock, teams will likely do more passing than running. We have 3 more games to correct any problems, then we will find out early how good we are. GO FALCONS!!!!
By GUmby
August 12, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
I really wonder how people can watch such a different game then the rest of us. “Norwood’s runs don’t impress me”??? Um, alright, no, a guy with good vision, great balance, and excellent quickness, nothing impressive about that at all. Have you seen him in practice? “DJ Shockley is bearing down on Mike Vick”?? That’s hilarious.
By gary
August 12, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this
Keep laughing Mr. Gumby. I sure hope you won’t take it personally if I’m right about DJ,and will just be happy for his success.PEACE!!!!
By ewalk80
August 12, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this
I wish that UGA had a top flight football school like OHIO STATE. Then maybe when a player finally makes it to the pros. You guys would not act like it is the second coming. SHUT UP ABOUT D.J. he is a third stringer at BEST.
By Wayne
August 12, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this
Brookins, Brookins, Brookins…I’m sorry, but I don’t like his play at all. I don’t ever remember him hitting a player one on one and the player was stopped for a loss or at least no gain. He can’t cover anyone and on replays, he is always out of position. If the Falcons want to win, they better play Williams, Hartwell and Boley at LB.
By Wayne
August 12, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this
I left the “g” off of Brookings, sorry about that.
By Idiot
August 12, 2006 11:54 AM | Link to this
There is no “s” either, moron.
By Wayne
August 12, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this
I’m a moron because I misspelled a player’s name. IDIOT is very appropriate for you.
By BirdDawg
August 12, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this
ewalk, you have got to be kidding me, right?
I mean, this Ohio State you talk about has had like, one good NFL players in the last 15 years. A running back or something, right? Finished his career washed-up with the Cowboys?
The Dawgs have sent copious ammounts of good NFL players, and even some absolute superstars into the NFL in the last 10 years.
We’re talking Richard Seymore, Terrell Davis, Randy McMichael, Hines Ward, Kendrell Bell, Champ Bailey, Boss Bailey, Ben Watson, Odell Thurmond, and Thomas Davis just to name a very few.
Who was the last Ohio State player who was supposed to make any kind of an impact? Andy Katzenmoyer?
Whatever happened to the Big Kat once he left the confines of the unathletic and slow Big 10?
Oh yeah, he was a BUST! Just like your over-hyped AJ Hawk is about to become.
By GARY
August 12, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this
I loved the Falcons playing hard for 60 minutes. Preseason OK but winning was what was on D.J.Shockley’s mind. Two minute drill; first NFL game against one of the top teams in the league and all he does is roll, run and pass the team down the field for the WINNING field with time expiring. BARK, BARK BARK. Norwood was so fast with dips and dives and fakes all the way to the end zone. What a steal in the draft. John Abraham was really great as a pash rusher. The Falcons have to figure out a way to stop the run. At times they looked beyond bad. Roddy White not catching passes that should have been caught is a real problem and this guy at this point is a busted first round pick. However, there were so many positives including a win for a team that needed a win bad, I’ll wait until next week to worry about the things they did not do well. By the way Michael Vick looked really good too, especially on that 16 yd run for a first down. They played hard for for 60 minutes, good coaching. Congrats on the win. BARK, BARK, AND BARK.
By BirdDawg
August 12, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this
How is he a busted first round pick, Gary… do you know nothing about football?
Most widerecievers take about 3 years to adjust to the NFL before they break out. EVERYONE knows this. The Randy Moss’s of the world are few and far between.
Even that moron TO, a mid to low round pick, was thought of as a guy who choked until he caught that pass from Young in the playoffs to beat the Packers… in his THIRD year.
Give White some time. This is Jenkins third year, and he will come on. If White can break out this year, all the better. But he deserves three years in the league to prove himself.
By chichi
August 12, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this
Overall i thought the falcons performance was expected for the first pre season game yes the run d didnt look great but you only have 4 guys from last year who actually started on this team hartwell was hurt and the rest are new i think the d will get better as the preseason wears on plus its preseason most of the plays are vanilla anyways
By Falconsbeliever
August 12, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this
After last night’s performance against the run, McKay will bring in Buckner or Grady Jackson. Bet on it!! I look for one of the two (or maybe another veteran DL) to be signed this week.
Also, Jenkins looked great. I really was surprised. If he remains as aggressive as he was last night, he’ll be good. White, however, is showing that he still isn’t dependable. Although he puts himself in excellent position, he can’t seem to hold on to the ball.
I know we only saw him for one series, but Vick seemed much more cofident in the pocket. He even seemed under control on his roll-outs. The OL looked better against the pass. Maybe old Wayne Gandy will have a nice impact.
Duckett was in the game much more than I anticipated. It appeared as if Mora was putting Duckett on display for other teams. Duckett maybe traded soon.
Jimmy Williams is one cocky fella! He’s may be pretty good. Webster better fight through his injury. Otherwise, Williams will bet starting game one.
By Shock and Awe
August 12, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this
Ewalk is just another typical Big Ten fan who runs his mouth so no one notices his lack of brains. I can’t even remember the last time Georgia lost to a Big Ten team and as a matter of fact, when UGA last played Ohio State, the Dawgs knocked the snot out of them. I guess if I had an artificial sense of worth about my team due to playing other slow and lumbering Big Ten schools, I might be pointlessly arrogant as well. If you check the facts, the SEC, including UGA, has a long history of putting more players into the NFL than any other conference by far.
By Jay
August 12, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this
Better fix the defense or Vick will have to be on the field too long…you know what that means,,,another 8-8 or worst.
Better hang on to those QB’s and kicker to make some games interesting!
By ricky-retardo
August 12, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this
the dawgs have sent alot of awesome players to the nfl…however kendrell bell is not one of them he sucks!
By ricky-retardo
August 12, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this
the dawgs have sent alot of awesome players to the nfl…however kendrell bell is not one of them he sucks!
By ewalk80
August 12, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this
When was the last time the puppies won a national championship???? shock Are you trying to say that uga is even close to the type of program that ohio st. is.9 densive starters from last years team was drafted that is more than UGA in the past 5 years. You must know that UGA sucks because you have to drag the rest of the sec teams in and big ten teams in this. I have a lot of respect for other teams and other confrence but UGA is not a top tier program which explains why you guys think a third string quarterback is god
By Ken Strickland
August 12, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this
Come on fellas, this blog is for PRO FOOTBALL, THE FALCONS, not college football. Neither team has an unblemished history to be proud of. Ohio State fans should remember how the school covered for Woody Hayes until he made a fool of himself , and the school, on national tv by attacking an opposing player in the field of play. Also, consider the Earl Bruce scandal before pointing fingers. Georgia fans should remember the Developmental Studies Program setup and put in place, by Vince Dooley, to keep athletes eligible to play sports, not graduate. When Jan Kemp exposed the unethical practice, the school was forced to remove him as head coach. UGA then showed just how committed it was to higher education by making Dooley the AD, and firing the whistle blower, Jan Kemp. President Adams knew Dooley’s history, and lack of concern for the student part of student/athlete, and forced him out. So, let it rest. Both schools also have a lot to be proud of as well.
By Shock and Awe
August 12, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
It appears that ewalk can’t own up to the fact that were Ohio State to play in the SEC East, they would be battling South Carolina for fourth place. However, I think Ken’s right, it’s not worth the time debating someone who obviously has the intellect of a chimpanzee and can’t grasp the concept of a google search to verify facts before posting them. Just so everyone’s clear, Georgia’s had 33 players drafted into the NFL in the last five years. For future reference ewalk, people will take you more seriously if your contentions aren’t so ridiculous and have some basis in reality.
By dirrtybird
August 12, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this
ummmmm,isn’t there a Bulldogs blog somewhere on this site? It’s different than arguing about you know who I guess. Have we signed Brentson Buckner yet? Have we cut Lavalais yet? Have we traded Duckett yet? We should bring in a punter and let Koenen do the place kicking. Jerious Norwood to return kicks anyone?
By Wink from Lithonia
August 12, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this
The falcons escape this game injury free, which is very good. They won the game at the end with DJ Shockley guiding 3rd & 4th string guys. Enjoyed all the quarterbacks play. Order of best play, Randall, Shockley, Schwab, Vick. It’s preseason and jobs have to be won on play, at least it should be that way. If this team is built around Vick, then the back ups should be similar ie Randall & Shockley. I also like Schwab, but he has value and should possibly be moved for a nose tackle or first round pick. Of course, this would never happen, but Schwab is not going to spend his career as Vick’s back up. We should get something for him before he becomes FA.
Defense very week in the middle, we need that big nose tackle and any line backer to be in the vicinity of a running back coming up the middle. When will Hartwell show up.
Some of the rookies were impressive, Norwood looked real good, like the tightend Fells, & Jennings. Roddy White needs to step it up or number 17 could sneak in. Turnbull is nasty, but a long shot. Entertaining game, but it just preseason.
Enough about the game,what’s up with this cattle mentality at the dome. Just trying to get into the place was crazy. Fans now have to walk miles around barricade obstacle course. Then they stop the flow of fans to allow cars to come through, while hundreds of fans pile up to get across.
Suggestion - if they are going for crowd control, route the car traffic away from the fans crossing. It was bad before the game and after the game it was worst, with cops with attitude.
I also don’t think it smarter to ride Marta either.
Yes, it preseason, but glad to have football back on the sports calendar…Go Braves…really go!
By Jerry Nichols
August 12, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this
Its the same old story with the Falcons’ run defense! The birds’ defense still plays very timid against the run. That rookie on the Pats ripped the defense a new one. The sorry play of run D will not be good enough against the tough runners in the NFC south. Once again this proves that Rick McKay doesn’t recognize the importance stopping the run. Milloy is old and washed up, Hartwell is overrated, and Crocker was never that good. Pass rush doesn’t matter when the opponent averages 5 yards a carry. ATL fans get ready for another long and disappointing season.
By Shock and Awe
August 12, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this
You’re right dirrtybird and I apologize to the other posters here for taking the focus off the Falcons. Please realize though that it’s hard to sit idly by when some idiot publicy tries to slander your alma mater.
By delton
August 12, 2006 05:55 PM | Link to this
The Falcons dominated the patiots yestterday. The score could have easily been 45 - 16 with a few breaks here and there. Look for a superbowl appearance!
By Ken Strickland
August 12, 2006 06:19 PM | Link to this
JERRY NICHOLS, you are right. If the Falcons can’t stop the run, it will be a long season. However, there are several issues to consider before predicting doom and gloom for the season. First, it’s very premature for anyone to base the outcome of a regular season on just one preseason game. Secondly, even with the poor run DEF, we won the game. How many times did that happen last yr? Thirdly, let’s see how our run DEF progresses over the next 3 games, before making premature projections after only 1 game. Lastly, the fact that the Falcons stopped the run in the red zone shows they are capable. The most important thing to remember is not how the DEF starts out in preseason, but how it progresses and ultimately finishes. GP FALCONS!!!!
By ewalk80
August 12, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this
Shock your alma mater enough said! I to would like to apologize but I am sick of hearing about UGA on this site.So if we all could just talk about the falcons it would be great.
By Hunk Erdown
August 12, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this
All this talk about Shockley being a threat to Vick is a joke. Anyone that seriously believes that needs to go back on their medication. There’s only one way I see DJ making the team and thats if Schaub or Randall get traded. Which is possible, both looked great last night. Randall especially… I can see some other team wanting him as much as Schaub, and for less in trade. I love DJ but he has to dethrone Randall to have a job and Randall didn’t look like he was ready to lay down. From a marketing standpoint, it may be good to find a way to keep DJ, but not if my fellow Dawgs are gonna be so rabid that it becomes a destraction. It has already become a carnival sideshow… people acting like he can come in as a rookie and kick Vick to the curb. Time to call the mothership and get yourself beamed back to whatever degree of reality your planet has ‘cause this is getting laughable.
As so many others have pointed out, none of it matters if we don’t get some meat to stop the run. Abraham was great in pass rush, but why would anyone pass on us?
By gary
August 13, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this
If DJ wasn’t a threat to displace someone on the Falcons roster, then there would be no reason for all the hate being spewed about a seemingly talented athlete. The haters have become scared of DJ for some reason. All I saw him do in the game was his job and have yet to hear him or any member of his family espouse any inappropriate comments.Knowing the press in this town, they were probably given every opportunity to. After all hate makes headlines. PEACE!!!!
By BarkinDog
August 13, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this
Wow - Wink from Lithonia and Ken Strickland are nailing it! I had a few comments, but they said it for me in a better way… nice comments guys. You’re both right about this being a Falcons blog (my name should tell ya I love the Dogs, but enough about them here). The Birds did their job! In an exciting way! It was a great game to watch, especially for preseason. How ‘bout their KICKING GAME! Wasn’t that what everyone was worried about? “Starter” contest OVER! Now we have a shot in every game at the end. That’s all. WOOF!!