Sports Columnists

By DCBird

December 31, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Jeff,

Thanks for the bolg.

The bottom line is that highly competitive athletes long for leadership. It very hard to lead effectively, if you are “one of the guys”. Coach Mora seemed to always be “one of the guys”. Think of all the great coaches in that particular league and you will not find any that were considered to be ‘one of the guys”.

Coach Mora blew his first shot as an NFL Coach.

By jarrodmon

December 31, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

It was nice to watch a half of football with a quarterback who could throw to receivers instead of them having to twist and gyrate to where the ball happened to be thrown. I’m guessing Schaub will be in the playoffs next year - and the Falcons won’t.

By kris

December 31, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

This team needed a Father figure-not a best friend. I wish him luck-he is best suited for the college game.

You have to discipline and sometimes call your players out-Mora did neither.

By JR

December 31, 2006 11:37 PM | Link to this

Mora is gone and the next coach won’t last any longer. The biggest problem with this team is that you can find out what Vick ate yesterday by checking Blanks nose.

By Tired of Falcons

December 31, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

What quality leader(coach) would take a chance on leading this bunch of sad sacks. What about Blank showing up on the side lines with more than 6 minutes left in the game? What top notch coach would put up with that? Blank needs to go back and take Owner 101 and learn what he is suppose not to do.

What coach would put up with Vick with the way Blank treats him. Would a strong coach be allowed to deal with Vick given Blanks affection for him.

I hate to say it, but the real root problem here is the owner. He passed on Saban and Smith for this turkey (Mora) and he meddles in the day-to-day running of the team.

This isn’t Home Depot Dapper Dan. There is a heck of a lot more to running a pro football team than to selling paint and hardware. Blank strikes me as the typical Corporate know-it-all exec. who can’t be told anything. Gosh, are we wishing for the Smith’s back as owners?

Just glad this nightmare is over for the next 7 months……

By Realist

December 31, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

Great analysis of today’s off-field play by the so called team leader. He obviously has no loyalty to his teammates, coaches or organization which angers many fans. He has got his ($$) and the hell with everyone else. He sounds like the Charlie Brown song, “Why is everybody picking on me?” See coments further below.

However, that does not excuse the total ineptitude of this coaching staff. They must all go!!!

Everyone should view the game photos, especially ## 10 & 11. I ask the following questions regarding Vick: 1) did he seem to be hurting badly while he was walking in the tunnel? and 2) why was he already in full street clothes sitting on the bench rather than on the sidelines supporting his teamamtes? Does he look excited for his teammates or just p$ssed and ready to go home?

I ask you (both the Haters and the Apologists)to use rational reasoning in your comments. In this case I think a picture (or two) is worth two thousand words.

By DexterDawg

December 31, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

We should bring back Dan Reeves, and let him finish what he started. He would be more of a mentor to Vick.Vick was coming along nicely under his guidence the first time. Let him take over where he left off!

By Jamaaliver

December 31, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

Man…..I’ve been a huge Mike Vick supporter for the past five years. But Vick’s statements and behavior this season have left me…..wanting.

Way to stand up for a guy who’s supported you (publically) through alot this year, Mike.

By Mothball

December 31, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

I agree completely. Successful managers in any field are not drinking buddies with subordinates. Problems always occur. Unfortunate, but true.

Hopefully, there is a Payton or Mangini out there with “Falcons” tattooed on his fanny. The talent is there (With the O-line being the exception), just not the leadership.

Go Birds!!

By Brad

December 31, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this

Vick might be a great athelete but he is by no means a leader. Seems to willing to fall into the background when the going gets tough. Get rid of Mora and Vick.

By tmorse

December 31, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

good riddance; I wonder if Blank will fire Deangelo Hall too. He’s the only idiot who’s taken up for Mora. I’d take up for him too if he never yelled at me for the types of things that Mr. FALL did. We need a coach with discipline. Then and only then will Deangelo shut up and play. As for Vick. He’s not a leader, but he’ll play hard for a leader, just like he did for Dan. Say goodbye to the college option, and the prevent defense on 3rd and 4. Say hello to your investment Mr. Blank. These players will give you a tremendous effort next year, I guarantee.

By Humbug

December 31, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

Did you notice the change in our receivers after Vick left the game? They actually ran routes and made effort to catch the ball. This didn’t happen when Vick was in there. The OL actually started offering some protection too. It shows that the OL and receivers can do a much better job than they normally do. Their lethargy reflects on Vick, Mora, Blank, and the team. Let them leave with Knapp.

By ;(

January 1, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

could we trade vick and maybe get a 1st, 2nd & 3rd round pick for him? remove the coaching staff and get real coaches to run the team.

By DawgFan

January 1, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

Bobo is more innovative than Donatell. Maybe Ed should get in fights in Normaltown. Jim keeps talking about a 3 year body of work but what’s the trendline since the peak? If Mora wants to be viewed like Bobby Cox, he should have displayed more humility sooner. It’s not just protecting the Players in the press and being a players coach/friend off the field. Also it’s more than carrying nuggets of knowledge in a briefcase, that doesn’t replace your sense of purpose. He’ll hopefully learn from this and get a shot again somewhere else…

By Beauvighn

January 1, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick is a cancer. He will be terminal for any coach. Every one of those players should be ashamed for not coming to the defense of the coaching staff. Regardless of how inept the play calling on both sides of the ball, players should be man enough to take responsibility for the performance of this season. Give me a team of Brookings and you can have all the vick’s you want.

By Please

January 1, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Humbug, they were playing backups. The Eagles were in preseason mode. Plus Schaub only does that dink and dunk crap that looks good stat wise, but doesn’t reflect in the w-l column. Schaub is a nice peace that the Falcons should have traded in preseason to bolster the recieving corp and o-line. You can get a lot rent veteran to backup your QB. That created a problem of loyalty in the first place and division of the team and fan base. But he mostly only dinks and dunks to RB’s, Schaub doesn’t impress me with his throws over 15. Dunn may be the real problem, no longer appears to have burst. The Falcons aren’t that far away, heck a few catches here, a tackle there we would be in the wildcards are better. But Mora didn’t correct the little things last year are early this year when they got off to another decent start. Those things bit them again. The Falcons can go a long way next year, with the proper coaching change.

By Chris

January 1, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

The comments about Blank showing up on the sideline at the end of games are getting old and ridiculous. How is he changing the game in any way by standing on the sideline to watch the end? Who cares?

By DickClark

January 1, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

In Blank’s own words:

“We use a system that measures aspects of their character, as well as their football talent — before they’re ever asked to join the team. It’s called the “Falcons Filter” — and it’s helping us build a high-character, high integrity organization that can win the ultimate game — the “Super Bowl of Life,” as we like to call it.”

Vick was here before the filter was in place. Apply the filter now and replace Vick with a high-character player befitting the organization Blank wants to build.

By Real Bird Fan

January 1, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Wooowww. Schaub sucks he had a chance to win and he blew it! At this point all I can say is…………………………….. Go Art Blank!!!!

By Realist

January 1, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

Press Conferences: Otherwise, Vick is glad he has time to heal and wants to rush for 2000 yds next year so let’s go ahead a make him a RB, PR, & KR to fulfill his wish.

Mora is a joke praising his team’s work effort, character and comraderie. He is glad they don’t show up late. F#ck, who shows up late for recess.

Trade Vick (unless he converts to RB, PR and KR), get salary cap $$ and picks. Draft OL Joe Thomas, RB Adrian Peterson, & LB Paul Posluszny. Play our current 2nd & 3rd string QBs for one/two years while building OL/DL. Draft Brian Brohm/Trade Schaub next year. DJ Shockley will be a very good QB in a few (2) years.

Question: why do we need 4 TEs on this team?

By Steve

January 1, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Bill Cowher is mad at the Rooneys for his low ball contract and should be available this week.

NOTE to BLANK; Get BILL COWHER!

By jcdocpc

January 1, 2007 01:03 AM | Link to this

I still love the Falco…ns, oops, i fumbled. But I must say the coaches did not adapt well to the players or the system they created. All or most of the players we have are Mora’s A itty bitty lineman is not going to stop a behemath defensive lineman over an entire season. They will wear down. But what was most maddening for me was that the Offense was so inept, we had the most unimaginative plays I have ever seen. Any pro team can figure out your offense if you only have 15 plays. i realize Vick has limits, but his upside and determination can not be questioned. Vick can win if we get a coach that can utilize his gifts and not try to make him Be more than that.

And finally, about the defense…What defense?

By JB

January 1, 2007 01:05 AM | Link to this

Jim Mora, Sr. was right

By Peter

January 1, 2007 01:06 AM | Link to this

Right. I stronly agree. 1.Fire Mora 2.Trade Vick 3.Build OL/DL with 2 Back up QB. 4.Trade Schaub 5.Make Shockley the QB and leader.

Just do this 5 things and Falcons will win a few Super Bawl. Guarenteed.

By Realist

January 1, 2007 01:08 AM | Link to this

I admit to plagerizing this from Hertic on the official Falcons website blog. It is very telling.

Vick 2005 Qb rating in 4th quarters: 59.4, 3 Tds Vick 2006 Qb rating in 4th quarters: 53.3, no Tds Vick career record when trailing at halftime: 5-21-1 Vick career record when trailing at the end of 3rd quarter: 3-25-1 Total points scored in 4th quarter in the 8 losses: 3 points out of 25 drives Vick has not scored a TD in the 4th quarter in the last 21 games

The “Vick club” rules: - rule 1: you do not talk about “vick club” - rule 2: Vick wins games, team loses games - rule 3: good stats are to be used, bad stats are agenda-driven/wrong/biased - rule 4: bad stats which are not the above, are due to WR-Oline-coaches performances - rule 5: support and defend Vick, cause he is our starting QB. Do what you want with the other players

P.s. I don’t think Vick is the ONLY problem we have (OC-WRs- rCB-Dunn are some others) but he is going to be the most expensive one…

By BirdDawg

January 1, 2007 01:10 AM | Link to this

Y’all, I am consistantly amazed at the levels of ignorance displayed on these boards.

I am the first to come to Vick’s defense, but I have to agree with other posters who say that this team needs a leader as a coach, not a best friend, and that goes doubly for Mike.

Vick is human, guys. He’s frustrated that he’s been chained to a system that doesn’t let him do what other QB’s can do, which is you know, succeed because of audibles and innovation. The basic freedom to change a badly called play (just about every play Knapp calls is bad) into a play that can succeed.

130 million dollars doesn’t make a person less frustrated because of losses, in fact, it probably makes it more frustrating for him.

Jim Mora had a chance to save his job and fire Knapp either before the season or in the middle of the season, but didn’t. Knapp is his BFF. Jim can’t even control freaking MeAngelo Hall and his poor on-field behavior. He’d never fire his best friend.

Guess what? Brian Billick fired his best friend, and now is probably going to the Super Bowl because of it.

That’s the difference between a good coach and Mora.

As for Vick, he has been coddled, and a guy like Ron Riviera, Ken Whisenhunt, or Cam Cameron would be perfect to come in here and hold ALL of these guys accountable, especially MeAngelo Hall and his freaking idiotic personal foul penalties.

Also, all of you morons who keep saying Vick quit, well, I’d like to see you play with a groin pull or a high ankle sprain.

Ridiculous.

By Tim

January 1, 2007 01:10 AM | Link to this

In interviews after the Carolina game, Vick talked a lot about the records HE set, he more than once mentioned I set this record. I am sorry, but the last time I checked there was NO “I” in team, and that is a big problem with this team, it seems if there is a lot of I’s,or it may be that #7 is the “I” in team and the rest of the team knows it based on what some are writing about receivers trying to make catches when he left the game. As for a coaching change we all know it is most likely coming, Arthur while you are making changes why not go ahead and put #7 on the market and see what you can get for him, someone may take him.

By ja

January 1, 2007 01:21 AM | Link to this

3 years ago management should have thought harder about transforming Vick into a West Coast QB. Now that they know he is not one they will have no choice but to find a new offensive approach that compliments his skills. Hopefully better planning on the front end will avoid these type of mistakes for the future. It is time to make some tough choices, but it is not just the coach’s that need to go. I can think of a few players that did not pull their weight either.

By webhead

January 1, 2007 01:21 AM | Link to this

Hire Barry Switzer and run the Wishbone Vick will never be a passing threat Also fine 11 more Brookings i’m tired of watching ten other lasy players

By Jimbo

January 1, 2007 01:22 AM | Link to this

Too much salary cap tied up in too few non productive players. If you’re throwing around blame include Rich McKay. Abraham,Hartwell, D.Hall, Jenkins,White all McKays boys and all overpriced and under performers. Fineran and Duckett scored 12 Red Zone Touchdowns last year who did we replace them with?

By Realist

January 1, 2007 01:24 AM | Link to this

As the Beatles said, “and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” So here goes: F%ck you Mora, F%ck you Vick, F%ck you Blank - now gimme some love back.

By Realist

January 1, 2007 01:31 AM | Link to this

Bird Dawg, I agree with most of your opinion above - coaching is biggest problem. However, you should view the game photos, especially ## 10 & 11. I ask the following questions regarding Vick: 1) did he seem to be hurting badly while he was walking in the tunnel? and 2) why was he already in full street clothes sitting on the bench rather than on the sidelines supporting his teamamtes? Does he look excited for his teammates or just p$ssed and ready to go home? Is he really the leader this TEAM needs? What about what Dunn feels and Crumpler and Norwood or don’t they count. I feel bad for their efforts.

I ask you to stop being an Apologist for one minute and use your rational reasoning in your comments. In this case I think a picture (or two) is worth two thousand words.

By Jay

January 1, 2007 01:37 AM | Link to this

I refuse to believe the Eagles backups were better then our starters. So what does that leave when a THIRD-STRING qb tosses for more then 300 yards? Our coaches SUCK ad adjusting. Plain and simple. Our coaches NEVER adapted to the opponent.

Bye Take-a-Knapp. Your offense was the most inconsistent. Even Troy Aikman was making fun of your play designs. And not letting your qb audible…what is this, pee-wee?

Bye Dont-atell. You couldnt stop a team that throws 7 passes, couldnt stop the lions and browns, and now couldnt stop a third-string qb. Thats just inexcusable.

Bye Rossum. Your prodcutive returns were few and far between this year. Your coverage “skills” were AWFUL.

Bye Dunn. Even though you said you could run on goaline situations and short yard situations…you couldnt. You got absolutely contained for all but about four games.

Bye whoever our receiver coach is. We’ve seen little to no development in White and Jenkins. They were getting SHUT DOWN by the Eagle backups!

Bye Schuab. You’ll be a valuable 1st round pick. Best of luck to you.

Bye Moran. You humilated the Falcons time and time again. You are far too immature to be a head coach. Your team constantly quit on you, was unprepared, and had 2ndhalf meltdowns all year. 2-6 last year, 2-7 this year…just pathetic. Good riddance.

By xx

January 1, 2007 01:51 AM | Link to this

I wish we had more players with Milloy’s attitude.

By Reginald

January 1, 2007 01:59 AM | Link to this

Why put all the blame on coaching? Why not “catching”, as in plenty of dropped balls by those no. 1 draft pick receivers, Et al. BTW, Arthur Blank, keep your gluteus off the field, we have a mascot. Gotta get someone to get 8 yards at a time, to go with Warrick Dunn’s 2 at a time= 10 yards. Now you’re talkin!

By D-Man

January 1, 2007 02:01 AM | Link to this

Question: Why have some people on the Falcon Blogs referred to Vick as “Ron Mexico”? What does the term mean?

By Kirk

January 1, 2007 02:04 AM | Link to this

The biggest problem with this franchise is Arthur Blank. He gave Vick the 5 year deal with all the money, but now we are discovering he is a great runner, but a mediocre passer. Vick can not be traded because of his contract, this franchise, thanks to Blank, is stuck with him. Yo can fire Mora, but even Bill Walsh can make Vick an average QB.

By WST

January 1, 2007 02:04 AM | Link to this

Hey BirdDawg, what does BFF mean?

By Kirk

January 1, 2007 02:11 AM | Link to this

Correction to above: You can fire Mora, but even Bill Walsh can’t make Vick become at least an average QB

By webhead

January 1, 2007 02:11 AM | Link to this

looks like Mora Sr. was right Vick is a coach killer

By Mothball

January 1, 2007 02:14 AM | Link to this

Unfortunately, Vick has been rather cavalier in his personal life and formulated the nighttime alias of Ron Mexico to get on with the ladies. He reputedly infected a lady with herpes while using this alias.

It’s a pity really; I just want a Falcon’s championship. Don’t much care about Vick’s personal issues. Besides, herpes isn’t as alien as most people believe. It’s generally a function of hormones and ignorance.

Go Birds and Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!

By Confused fan

January 1, 2007 02:20 AM | Link to this

This team is a mess from top to bottom. They have talent, but no clue in how to use it on a consistent basis. They are the most confusing team I’ve ever seen in Atlanta in all the years they’ve been here and I’ve seen them all. In the past you could identify where their obvious weaknesses were, but now that’s not the case. Sometimes they can catch, sometimes they cannot. Sometimes Vick looks like he has a grasp on what’s going on, sometimes he looks totally lost. Sometimes the defense plays stellar; sometimes they look like they couldn’t stop a blind two legged dog. Sometimes the coaches look like they have a plan, sometimes they look like they just woke up from a weeklong nap. I don’t know how to figure this team. I think it’s going to take more than replacing coaches. They need leadership. Right now every game reminds me of Picket’s charge at Gettysburg.

By PSack

January 1, 2007 02:22 AM | Link to this

JUST CLEAN HOUSE

Players and Coaches…I don’t htink we should sack Mora unless we can get a quality replacement. I am concerned that he does not lead his coordinators when making game time adjustments. The falcons were horrible making game time adjustments. UNACCEPTABLE

VICK IS JUST TO SMALL TO SEE OVER THE DL. HE HAS RESORTED TO THROWING A “MOONBALL” DESCUISED AS A DEEP BALL.

Vince Young will be outplaying him next year. Schaub will be the next Bret Farve we trade..all he needs is some snaps…he will be a pro bowl quarterback one day

By Steve T

January 1, 2007 02:24 AM | Link to this

Did you notice the change in our receivers after Vick left the game? They actually ran routes and made effort to catch the ball. This didn’t happen when Vick was in there. The OL actually started offering some protection too. It shows that the OL and receivers can do a much better job than they normally do. Their lethargy reflects on Vick, Mora, Blank, and the team. Let them leave with Knapp.

I can tell that you never play a down of football. The O line looked better because they did not have to face a blitz. The eagles stopped blitzing because Matt has not won a game. The teams in the NFL do not have a book on him yet, so it was like beat us if you can. They knew that sooner or later they would get a pick.

By Myron Cope

January 1, 2007 03:00 AM | Link to this

Hey, idiot, yes, you, the one that claimed Rooney “low-balled” Cowher, want to talk numbers? Cowher makes $4.5 million now. He was offered $6.5 million to extend his contract. He refused. This is “lowball” only when compared to Mike Holmgren’s $8.5 million. And, it’s not just about money. Cowher wants to be able to spend time —a lot time — with his wife and young’un in Raleigh. The Rooneys are kind of set on having their coach actually live in the city where he works. Raleigh, BTW, is nearly 400 miles from Atlanta. So, if Blank can stomach that, is willing to pay $8 million per year AND compensate the Steelers for the year that Cowher is still under contract, Art might just get himself a new head coach.

By Im thru with em

January 1, 2007 03:02 AM | Link to this

Fire em all. Trade Vick. Take the hip-hop Rap crap attitude somewhere else. I’m sick and tired of this garbage and I refuse to give them my hard earned money or my precious time. I’m even going to Lowe’s to buy my trade supplies. I’m fed up with all of it. (Former) FANS UNITE - FIRE THE WHOLE DAMN TEAM. BOYCOTT ANYTHING FALCONS.

By theedge

January 1, 2007 03:05 AM | Link to this

Vick said “It wouldn’t be tough for me to learn a new system”. I say, Bull crap, he can’t learn ANY system. He DOES NOT have the intelligence. Vick sucks under any “system”. Face folks, he only has (at best) 2 or 3 more “good” years left in him. TRADE him, you idiots.

By theedge

January 1, 2007 03:11 AM | Link to this

Hey, Ron Mexico (aks MV), take another “toke” or two. You can use it to relax during the off season after know ing that you “killed” yet another coach. You freak’n moron. It must be nice to know that you can make $130M ($130,000,000 for those who don’t know what the “M” stands for) without shouldering the blame from your “brothern”.

By Clint

January 1, 2007 03:11 AM | Link to this

I’m tired of paying more every year for 2 tickets; so that I can go watch a mediocre (at best) team…

This team has made going to the games a chore instead of fun. If 8-8 wasn’t good enough what is 7-9?

It was amazing to see this team go from running all over Carolina and Tampa Bay in the 2 first games, to a team that couldn’t stop Carolina from running all over them.

If you expect me to pay anymore next year, go ahead and tell the next guy on your waiting list that his ticket is available…

The tradition continues…..

“THE FALCONS SUCK!!”

By Brownthrasher

January 1, 2007 03:14 AM | Link to this

Fair weather fans… that’s what we have here in Atlanta. We complain, find fault and never really stand behind our team. The Falcons had nothing to play for today so I question why Vick was playing at all. It’s not Vick;s fault that Mora has made a jackass out of himself this year. It’s not Vick;s fault that his receivers didn’t catch balls. It;s not Vick;s fault that those lousy short yardages were NEVER made. It’s not Vick;s fault that he makes the big bucks. It’s certainly not Vick;s fault that we have drafted poorly, made the wrong trades and invested big dollars in mediocre players like Price, Hartwell, and Abraham. Regardless of what happens to the Falcons it’s always Vick’s fault.

We forget that he did not have Finneran to go to this year, that the fools in the front office traded Duckett, that Knapp and Donatell should have been let go LAST YEAR. Under Dan Reeves, Vick was Superman. The Falcons problems ARE a result of POOR COACHING and that starts with MORA. He is NOT the man for this team We dont need a friend in the sidelines, we need aa coach that will get in these players face and SCREAM.

By the way, was it Vick’s fault that Matt tripped over his own feet in the Red ZOne. I think not.

I love the Falcons, win or lose. I say fire Mora, staff and Rick McKay.

By d

January 1, 2007 03:20 AM | Link to this

Lets see… with Vick for a half we scored 10 points & with Schaub for a half we scored 7.

If Vick had tripped over his own feet with a reciever wide open(like Schaub did) you idiots would be blasting him for it. If Vick had thrown behind the open reciever so the defender could break it up you’d probably be pointing that out too(Schaub did that). And that was on just two Schaub plays at the end of the game(the last two plays).

Vick has taken this team to the playoffs with two different coaches. He is not the problem!!!

By thug bird

January 1, 2007 04:21 AM | Link to this

Vick is a coach killer. Vick only cares about himself, quitting at the end of games (Deion Sanders just called him out the other week for quitting), and being sued for spreading certain viruses to woman. Mora is a players coach and that is what you need in an NFL coach. NFL coaches must play the “players game” to get the most out of them. Lets face it, NFL players are over paid and soft. I would like to see any of them work a whole week at the Home Depot. They would not last five minutes without questioning their manager’s intent before quitting.

By TonyG

January 1, 2007 04:38 AM | Link to this

Anyone who tries to blame Arthur Blank for this mess is a complete idiot!! He’s done so much for this team!!He leaves the FOOTBALL decisions up to people who are supposed to know football. Maybe those people don’t know what they’re doing, but Arthur Blank has been a gift to the city of Atlanta. I wish he owned the Braves too!

By PoliticalMan

January 1, 2007 04:55 AM | Link to this

I’ve said it time and again, Vick is a cancer. I say go back to your thug culture.

Schaub showed some rust, but gosh he looked like a NFL QB. Maybe Knapp would be fine without Vick.

I say trade Vick for what you can get. Dunn can go too. Mora is not a NFL head coach.

By Dave

January 1, 2007 05:06 AM | Link to this

Green Bay fan here. It looks like the HOF quarterback you guys gave us fifteen years ago may be hanging them up at last. How about letting us have Matt Schaub to replace him? We’ll make a similar deal just like last time.

Keep on defending and hanging on to that overpaid china-doll quitter, Vick. He’s the most overrated, worthless nothing I’ve ever seen. He can run, no question. And he’s run all over my guys more than once. But he’s a lousy passer, a faker and quitter who leaves the game if you blow on him, and he’s a low life thug with sexual diseases to boot.

My late father was a Falcon fan. My brother is a Falcon fan. I’ve always rooted for Atlanta when they weren’t playing my guys, but the Falcons used to be represented by classy men like Dan Reeves, Chris Chandler, Whiteshoes Johnson, Tim Dwight, Jeff Van Note, Steve Bartkowski, Gerald Riggs, Mike Kenn, Alfred Jenkins, William Andrews, Tim Mazzetti….. Get the picture?

Now the Falcons have changed their bird logo and feature as the team’s public faces a walking free clinic, a goofy owner who adores the overhyped walking free clinic, and a big mouthed coach who was dumb enough to hire our worthless, former Green Bay defensive coordinator, whose claim to fame was blowing a 4th and 26 to lose a crucial playoff game in Philly.

Green Bay just finished with a better record than the Falcons, and with about a third the talent and nowhere near the payroll. That is pathetic. Send Mora and Vick packing. Dump them now and get back to being the classy Falcons that may not have always won, but they didn’t make us want to puke.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 1, 2007 06:43 AM | Link to this

Realist, Mora said in his post-game conference that Vick suffered a high ankle sprain. These usually take 1-2 weeks to heal, and the more severe ones take 4-6 weeks. Maybe he didn’t “look” hurt to you, but apparently the team physician thought otherwise.

Vick has two major problems, one of which he needs to get fixed, and the other he can’t do anything about. He is very short, and he doesn’t have what they call “media savvy”. Obviously there is no Cialis for the entire body, so his height is something he has to work around. But every week, I hear him say things during his press conferences that make me shake my head — I can understand what he really means, but I can also understand when people think he’s not taking responsibility, throwing people under the bus, etc. because he certainly doesn’t do himself any favors with his press conferences. And sometimes I don’t even think he realizes it. For example, a few weeks ago when he made the remark about “overcoming coaching”, he basically repeated something Knapp said in practice, and he didn’t realize how it sounded to the media until they started laughing. I think Dan Reeves hired a “speech coach” when he was here — the next head coach should seriously consider doing the same.

But as for his abilities as a passer — if you look at the game tape for this entire season, you will see pretty clearly that the playcalling directly affects his passing ability. When the play calls for him to stay in the pocket, he usually does well. When the play calls for him to move out of the pocket on a designed bootleg, scramble, etc., he usually loses yards or throws an incompletion. Unfortunately, these coaches game plan around Vick’s feet instead of his cannon of an arm, which causes most of Vick’s inconsistency.

The problem on this team is not Vick, it’s not the pass blocking, and even the WRs would be more consistent with better coaching. The offensive linemen are not great but they do a decent job overall as long as they are not power run blocking. The defense is loaded with talent. The problem is the coaching staff and their idiotic schemes and playcalling. Too passive defensively, too gimmicky offensively. With less gimmicks on offense and more aggressiveness on defense, this team is a playoff team.

Happy New Year.

http://www.geocities.com/firejimmora/

By Beretverde

January 1, 2007 07:12 AM | Link to this

Ron Mexico is not just a “Coach-Killa” he’s a “Team-Quitta.” An overpaid boondoggle that needs to go as well. They will never win with a “Killa-Quitta.”

By SJ

January 1, 2007 07:17 AM | Link to this

I too am very dissapointed with the season and support the need for accountability from all participants. The nay sayers are quick with the knife for Mora & staff but then what? Who is the “upgrade”? Another coordinator promotion or retread? How bout a college coach, their NFL track record has been strong uh? If Detroit & Cleveland would have been “W’s” would we be having this blog? What about the dropped passes, injuries, and strong “leadership” from Vick? Where is Rich McKay’s responsibility in this train wreck? Lets be honest, as dynamic as Vick is, he will NEVER play nor win a Superbowl. He is there to fill seats, not win championships. Bottom line is there are many targets for blame as this organization. Members of the coaching staff have track records of superbowls & championships. Vick and many of the players do not. Firing the coaching staff is a political move by Blank to continue filling seats with and very average team. Selective, surgical changes within the coaching staff coupled with key player trades and acquisitions in the off season is not a crowd pleaser but the means to becoming a winner.

By steve

January 1, 2007 07:34 AM | Link to this

the whole organization needs to take a really hard look at itself; and quit drafting only hokie db’s

By RA

January 1, 2007 08:09 AM | Link to this

Honestly, I think that if you don’t lose guys like Mathis, Kerney,Webster, and Heartwell for long stretches of the season, things would have been different. However, there is simply no excuse for some of the play calling that occurred this season and the lackluster effort exhibited in big games. Pathetic! Heads need to roll.

By cliff w

January 1, 2007 08:18 AM | Link to this

The falcons will improve alot around 6p.m. when blank fires mora & staff. AS for Schaub he’s the best preseason, playing against 2nd & 3rd stringers QB i’ve ever seen. Please someone get a clue schuab is the next doug johnson of the falcons.

By Matt Yoder

January 1, 2007 08:22 AM | Link to this

I tried to be optimistic at the start of this year but yesterday pretty much summed it up. You have a coach who is still praising his team after a lack luster effort and you have “Mike Vick” making a comment that he is one of the best QB’s in the league!!!!! Can you believe that? He is a great athlete but I feel strongly that he is a coach killer just like Mora Sr. said and Matt Shaub proved on very limited playing time who the best QB on the team is and he happens to be playing backup! For that fact alone we need a new head coach!

By jerry

January 1, 2007 08:24 AM | Link to this

Any owner with an ounce of pride would have fired this little p** ant on the spot after the radio interview. And think or the message it would have sent to all concerned. Firing him now, (and fire him he must or lose all credibility} will not have the same emphasis.

By dan

January 1, 2007 08:24 AM | Link to this

Jeff, stop coming to Mora’s defense. He blows. His lack of fire and tough mentality does not work here in the NFL. Vick isn’t a coach-killer; Mora is a QB-killer. He has stunted the growth of Mike Vick as well as the entire Falcons team by chaining Vick in an offense that doesn’t suit him and by hiring an inept coaching staff composed of friends rather than hard-working football people. After such a promising start to a career by Vick in this “new era” of falcons football, I feel sick to see someone like Mora come and ruin it for us.

By joejoe

January 1, 2007 08:31 AM | Link to this

I would love to be Blank this morning!! I would fire the entire coaching staff! but my biggest accomplishment today is I would put candy a* Vick on the trading block! He is a coach and team killer. He has no heart! He is not smart enough to hit his hot reads and is always checking down to Crumpler. His passes look like wounded ducks. I will admit he does have a cannon but so does my 13 year old son when i am standing right in front of him!

By Bulldog Mike

January 1, 2007 08:37 AM | Link to this

Every time that another team applies pressure to this Falcons team they fold like a cheap card table. We have failed as a team because we have asked Mike Vick to do far too much. Everyone expects him to somehow rescue the team no matter how badly the other players play. While I agree that it seems that a total coaching change is due, I worry that this will result in another 3 years of frustration.
If we do change the coaching staff we must get a proven coach in here.

By Eddie (aka "Falcon 1")

January 1, 2007 08:39 AM | Link to this

The time has come for us (the “Falcon Nation”) to stop kidding ourselves and face reality. Michael Vick is a leader and capable of leading this team. It would be a gross mistake to even entertain the idea of trading him. What we need is a tough minded coach and staff to get us where we need to be. Here is my list of coaches that should be interviewed this week: Jimmy Johnson, Jim Tressel, Ron Rivera, Doug Plank, Jeff Fischer, Bill Cowher, and Donnie Henderson. As far as trades, I think that Michael Jenkins, Ashley Lelie, Matt Schaub, Allen Rossum, Jason Webster, and Chris Crocker are definitely done in Atlanta. Schaub is gone because he is a talent, and it is time for him to lead his own team. The other guys are performance issues. Roddy White was on my list, but his work ethic has increased and you could see that on the field. Mora, Knapp, Donatell, and Stewart are all a hinderance to the future progress of our franchise.

By p

January 1, 2007 08:39 AM | Link to this

Jeff,

Good column. I see you’ve come 180 since the season started, and rightly so.

The next Falcons coach, if there is one, must start cleaning house as soon as possible. Start with Vick. He is a loser. It took Shaub, who is not that hot, about 5 minutes to do what Vick hadn’t done in over 20 straight games - throw a TD pass in the 4th quarter. Vick’s lack of ability is only matched by his lack of character. Mr. “winner” turned out to be Mr. underachiever, again. Thanks, Mike for averaging LESS than 14 points per game.

By Wes

January 1, 2007 08:43 AM | Link to this

TRADE VICK, KEEP MORA

Vick is a mediocre QB at best, and certainly not a man that you can build a team around from a leadership perspective.

By Go Falcons, and take the Braves and Hawks with you, too!

January 1, 2007 08:46 AM | Link to this

The Atlanta sporting press blew it! No surprise there, but that’s another issue for another time. The guys that SHOULD have been interviewed first were the Falcons medical staff for an accurate diagnosis of the infamous Vick “sprained ankle.” There is a long list of guys in the league that play EVERY WEEK with far worse injuries. This is another glaring, gutless example this loser could care less as long as his income isn’t jeopardized!

By p

January 1, 2007 08:47 AM | Link to this

birddawg, you have long been the biggest idiot on this site, but your post above, elevates you to a new level of lunacy, where few people dare to tread.

By EEJAY

January 1, 2007 08:50 AM | Link to this

A. Blank should look in the mirror before he looks anywhere else. Jim Mora is only a reflection of him. If he allowed his coaches to have REAL control Vick would and should have been watching a few games from the sidelines. It’s Blank that hosts the “feel good” dinners at his house with Vick at the head of the table. It’s Blank that has to be the Jerry Jones look alike on the sidelines. It’s Blank that is more intersted in putting number 7 jerseys on every little kid in Atlanta than winning games. Mora’s hands are tied when it comes to Michael Vick. Troy Aikman hit the nail on the head yesterday. Until Vick completes passes on a consistant basis the Falcons are going nowhere. It took Matt Schaub to throw a the first touchdown pass in the fourth quarter this year. The next coach that comes to Atlanta will not have any more success.

By spotman

January 1, 2007 08:50 AM | Link to this

Hey Dave William Andrews is in jail.

By Larry

January 1, 2007 08:52 AM | Link to this

“Remember the Green Bay game!”

Do you remember my quote from last season after the Falcon’s horrid effort at home against Green Bay? I followed this with another quote: “this team is poorly coached (Mora) and poorly led (Vick).” Some agreed and many disagreed. Now you know who is the real expert on football matters!

And, “Dave,” the Green Bay Packer fan, you’ve already saved me many, many sentences. The Georgia Dome has become infested with this smelly hip hop, gansta, degenerate following of the Vick and MeAngelo Hall culture, sapping the life and spirit out of football purist. As a native and long time Falcon season ticket holder, this is the first time ever I lost interest in attending games because I did not want to expose my wife and daughters to such filth and vulgarity. Here Vick is a 26 year old man, 6th year NFL veteran, multi-millionaire and he looks and dresses like a junior high ghetto bum. I mean he just absolutely looks STUPID wearing a baseball cap at a 90 degrees angle while conducting a professional interview! It’s more important for this 26 year old man to attempt to look cool than reasonably professional and confident!

This team has lost its window of opportunity, which in the NFL is about 3-5 years. Reeves had the team primed for another run starting in 2001-2002 but now many of the key veterans are sneaking past their prime (Brooking) or losing a step (Rossum). It is time for a professional, classy, proven championship coach to come in and build the next Champion. It is time for JIM TRESSEL!

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

January 1, 2007 08:53 AM | Link to this

-When you refr to the Phily’s 3rd strng QB- realize that AJ Feeley has plenty of NFL game exp.

• Schaub did the “dinking and dunking” b/c the West Coast offense is a horizontal 8-15 passing offense. Not the Norv Turner- Raider Vertical Offense.

• Fire Knapp, and Teenage Mutant Ninga Turtle DC, Fire Vick.

• Keep Mora promote Musgrave to OC and let Schaub run this WC offense with his college OC as his pro OC.

HNY!

By Boots

January 1, 2007 08:54 AM | Link to this

Vick rushed for 1000 yards and the team finished 7 and 9. His personal accomplishments are worth no more than a cup of warm spit. As a matter of fact, if one gauges success in football by winning, the 2006 version of the Falcons is no better than any of those losing teams of the past 40 years. Losing is losing! But with Vick, it’s all about him and if it’s not about him, it’s not important —- thus his remarks during the post-game interview. This character flaw has cost Vick his leadship on the field and will doom the Falcons for the duration of his contract!

By Bob

January 1, 2007 08:57 AM | Link to this

I used to think that I wanted Arthur Blank to buy the Braves, but no longer. His heart is in the right place, but this sideline act is getting old. Can you imagine Arthur in the dugout next to Bobby Cox starting in the 8th inning? Gosh, Cox would start looking like Leo in the first seven innings, rockin back and forth….or he would get fired for punching out the owner.

I have no idea how good Matt Schaub is going to be, but why do I have this dreadful feeling that his departure will come back to haunt us? Mike Vick is a terrific talent but he has the maturity level of a sixth grader. Having just finished serving 30 years in the Army I have a fairly good idea of what a leader looks like. Mike Vick doesn’t even remotely resemble a leader.

By GaDawgs7

January 1, 2007 08:58 AM | Link to this

Vick has proven Jim Mora, SR. right…he is a coach killer! A great athlete but a terrible quarterback…and an even worse leader. Schaub shows a lot of potential, and would love to see him get a shot, and for the Falcons to trade Vick (there would be takers that would give up plenty). This team will never make a Super Bowl run with Vick as the quarterback. The other thing I’m sick of hearing from Vick is how everyone else has to step up their game, but have yet to hear him accept any of the blame. This is the same quarterback that led us to 3 whole points against a Carolina team that had been dreadful…This is the same quarterback that threw an interception on a ball he was trying to thow away out of bounds.,,the same QB that fumbled in the red zone against Cleveland in the final couple of minutes and blamed the play call, the same QB that hasn’t thrown a 4th Quarter TD in the last 18 games (longest active streak in the NFL). Yet, EVERYONE ELSE needs to step it up….I’m really tired of his arrogance. I will spend no more money on going to Falcons game, bother watching them on TV, or even so much as to buy a Falcons shirt or hat until major changes are made.

By firedawg

January 1, 2007 09:00 AM | Link to this

I have said this all year. Michael Vick is probably the best athlete on the field. However, I don’t believe that he his even an average quarterback. It is probably beneath Vick, but I think he should be used as a WR, Slot Back, PR, KR or something where he can use his speed and agility to an even greater advantage. I believe that the Falcon’s need a quarterback who can lead on the field. Vick has shown moments of shear stupidity, like when he threw an interception to a blitzing line backer and made a half hearted attempt to keep him from scoring, he didn’t even run after him. I believe in winning and self sacrifice. Do what you have to do to stop the other team from scoring. What happened to the Ron Jawarski, Dan Fouts and the Terry Bradshaw type of quarterbacks who showed leadership, performed well and worked hard. How about Doug Flutie who even though he was shorter than most was able to work magic on the field to get his team a notch in the W Column. For Vick to be considered one of the greats, he will have to find some of the qualities of the legendary QB’s to be considered a legend himself.

ON anther note, the coaching has been lack luster this year as well. If Mora is allowed to stay he needs to really reevaluate his style and come up with a better program. There were way too many 4 and outs on offense this year and the defense looked like a colander trying to hold water. The Falcons have a lot to work on during the off season and that work needs to begin next week.

Go Falcons.

By chuck

January 1, 2007 09:01 AM | Link to this

PLESE - Can someone who has real knowledge of the salary cap help me out? I’m not saying getting rid of Vick is part of the answer, but we must at least consider all “reasonable” options. What exactly are the ramifications of either trading or releasing Vick? I always thought the remainder of the pro-rated bonus money would come due all at once. How, and for how long would our salary cap be affected?
Also, it’s time to get serious about what available coach is capable of leading us to the Super Bowl. We cannot afford another mistake. If it looks like it may take a while for the “right” candidate to become available, then maybe we should consider an interim coach for a while (like Dan Reeves} instead of making a hurried decision. But please someone let me know if moving Vick is even feasible.

By Former Player

January 1, 2007 09:07 AM | Link to this

Here is the botoom line. Schaub played against the Eagles 3rd string and lead the team to 7 points. WOW. That is tremendous. Schaub just showed you what is wrong with the West Coast offense. High completions, no big plays, no points. If Schaub were so great, he would be starting or teams would have made a huge offer for him. Does Vick say things that sometimes leave you scratching your head? Yes. Is he the problem on the field? No. 20 TDs, 2500 yards passing and 1000 yards rushing. Does that sound like a problem to you? If I put those stats next to someone else, what would you say. Two years ago when Vick and the Falcons were winning, everyone killed him on hs stats. Now everyone says his stats don’t matter. Let’s ne honest. This is really a hidden KKK blog, right? Our backup played against the Eagles back-ups, all of them and produced 7 points and a pick. You people need to stop writing and study the game. Oh, that would not be possible with all your KLAN meetings you all attend.

By firedawg

January 1, 2007 09:08 AM | Link to this

I have said this all year. Michael Vick is probably the best athlete on the field. However, I don’t believe that he his even an average quarterback. It is probably beneath Vick, but I think he should be used as a WR, Slot Back, PR, KR or something where he can use his speed and agility to an even greater advantage. I believe that the Falcon’s need a quarterback who can lead on the field. Vick has shown moments of shear stupidity, like when he threw an interception to a blitzing line backer and made a half hearted attempt to keep him from scoring, he didn’t even run after him. I believe in winning and self sacrifice. Do what you have to do to stop the other team from scoring. What happened to the Ron Jawarski, Dan Fouts and the Terry Bradshaw type of quarterbacks who showed leadership, performed well and worked hard. How about Doug Flutie who even though he was shorter than most was able to work magic on the field to get his team a notch in the W Column. For Vick to be considered one of the greats, he will have to find some of the qualities of the legendary QB’s to be considered a legend himself.

ON anther note, the coaching has been lack luster this year as well. If Mora is allowed to stay he needs to really reevaluate his style and come up with a better program. There were way too many 4 and outs on offense this year and the defense looked like a colander trying to hold water. The Falcons have a lot to work on during the off season and that work needs to begin next week.

Go Falcons.

By chuck

January 1, 2007 09:09 AM | Link to this

PLESE - Can someone who has real knowledge of the salary cap help me out? I’m not saying getting rid of Vick is part of the answer, but we must at least consider all “reasonable” options. What exactly are the ramifications of either trading or releasing Vick? I always thought the remainder of the pro-rated bonus money would come due all at once. How, and for how long would our salary cap be affected?
Also, it’s time to get serious about what ava