AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2007 > February > 21 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBlank doesn’t see character problems
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
Arthur Blank doesn’t feel his Falcons are careening down the same slippery slope as the Cincinnati Bengals, who had nine players arrested in nine months. “I wouldn’t compare us to the Bengals,” Blank said Wednesday. “I think all their players have been convicted. [Actually, not all have.] Michael [Vick] was never convicted of anything. Jonathan [Babineaux] hasn’t been convicted of anything.”
That said, two messy headlines — Vick investigated after the water-bottle incident in the Miami airport, and now Babineaux charged with felony cruelty to animals — in five weeks haven’t cast the rosiest of auras on Blank’s pride and joy. It was just last week that he spoke glowingly to the Atlanta Press Club of the charity work — more than any other team in the NFL, he claimed — his players do. Is there a disconnect between that gauzy image and a grimmer reality?
“Whenever there’s any kind of trouble, whether it’s perceived or real, it’s an issue for me,” Blank said. “These young men are role models.”
One thing Blank won’t do is cut Babineaux before the case has reached its disposition. “Most assuredly, no. There’s this thing called the legal process that’s even above the NFL and sports. Are we concerned? Yes, we are, and we’ll deal with the issue.”
But not, he emphasized, by making the defensive lineman a sacrifice to public opinion. “That would be the worst possible thing we could do,” Blank said. “It would be a slap in the face to the judicial system. Making the concession of throwing somebody on the fire would be the worst thing for our organization and the worst thing for Atlanta.”
Of Babineaux’s case, Blank said: “I don’t know what the facts are. He’s one player of a large number on our roster … I’ve known him for the last couple of years; he was a second-round draft pick. He’s very quiet. He has never been any trouble, and from what I understand he has a good relationship with the young woman [girlfriend Blair Anderson, whose pit bull Kilo wound up dead Sunday night].”
Nothing about these last five weeks, Blank said, should be seen as indictment of the Falcons’ screening process. “All of the players we draft or sign as free agents are graded on character on-field and off-the-field. That’s a unilateral feeling on the part of Bobby Petrino and Rich McKay and myself. And as [players] process through their NFL careers, we try to help them deal with issues … so they can go from being put on a pedestal to having a platform… . That’s true whether it’s No. 7 or No. 57 or No. 97.”
Regarding Vick and the Miami investigation: “Michael was cleared. I don’t think having a trick water bottle means we drafted poorly. Michael does not have a history of bad behavior.”
Earlier this month NFL commissioner Roger Goodell used his state-of-the-league address to lament the number of untoward incidents involving players. “We are raised to a higher standard in the NFL,” Goodell told reporters. “We must make sure the players are more accountable and our clubs are more accountable… . One incident is too many in my book. I think we need to re-evaluate all of our programs.”
Blank believes his franchise more than meets Goodell’s behavioral mandate. “I absolutely think we’re ahead of the curve. It’s an important part of the mission of our organization, and that starts with me… . I tell our players all the time that they’re going to be remembered as what kind of citizens they were when they were playing… . We’re dealing with young men who don’t always have positive experiences in their lives.”
And yes, since you asked, Arthur Blank is a lover of canines. “I’ve had dogs all my life,” he said, laughing. “I have a golden retriever named Shayna — it means ‘beautiful’ in Hebrew.”
Please return Thursday morning to add your comments.
Permalink | Comments (169) | Categories: Falcons / NFL, Mark Bradley
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By BUSHWACKER
February 21, 2007 07:21 PM | Link to this
“Michael does not have a history of bad behavior.” Flipping off the fans, smoking blunts on camera, sitting by himself pouting when things don’t go right.. What do you call bad behavior?
The fact Vick is too stupid to play quaterback is why you drafted poorly.
Mr Blank, if you know anything about football you know THE GREAT QUARTERBACKS still WIN when things are not going right, they figure out a way to get it done, they don’t pout on the sidelines and blame the coaches or the recivers or the linemen.
Vick is not a leader of men!!!!
By Larry
February 21, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this
Let’s see!
Vick has not one but two illegitimate children, gave herpes to an innocent, unknowing female who wasn’t told by him he was a carrier, lied about his name (Ron Mexico), was ticketed for driving without a license and insurance, made an obscene gesture in front of women and children, and tried to sneak through security a water bottle with a secret compartment designed to hide illegal drugs. And he’s only 26 years old!
Uh, Mr. Blank, either you are the most naive person in Atlanta, have no integrity, or you’re in complete denial? This, and a person who bashes the brains out of an innocent, trusting animal to get back at his girl?
Please don’t take us as fools!
By Marvin
February 21, 2007 07:24 PM | Link to this
GO Fal CONS!!
By Cruzin
February 21, 2007 07:25 PM | Link to this
Babineaux killed a pit bull. We should be congratulating him instead of arresting him!
By Dave
February 21, 2007 07:26 PM | Link to this
I am glad I only have to deal with high school students, but wait….that’s what these guys are acting like. Maybe we need to send thm to alternative school.
By catlady
February 21, 2007 07:26 PM | Link to this
IF this dog was killed and IF this man is found guilty, he should be dealt with in a very aggressive way, as were, at least initially, the young men charged with cooking the puppy. Cruelty to animals frequently presages cruelty to other living things, such as girlfriends, children, and the elderly.
By WhoCares
February 21, 2007 07:28 PM | Link to this
Pitbulls are a filthly beasts that routinely attack and kill children. Frankly I have no problem if Babineaux exterminated another one of these violent creatures and I will hereinafter call my section of the Dome the Dog Pound as an homage. That’s “Pound” as in, let’s pound the beejeezes out of these awful creatures.
By jc
February 21, 2007 07:34 PM | Link to this
90% of NFL players are nothing more than over payed thugs…….BOTTOM LINE
By Tony
February 21, 2007 07:37 PM | Link to this
Michael Vick is a good citizen…I don’t see smoking marijuana and having sex in your personal life as making you an evil guy. He hasn’t been convicted of anything. If this other guy really did committ cruelty to animals, then I hope he is cut but the facts have to come out. A pit bull is not like a poodle and there could have been extenuating circumstances.
By bravesfansince1966
February 21, 2007 07:41 PM | Link to this
Dump your tickets people…SEND A MESSAGE! GO Braves!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By JC
February 21, 2007 07:48 PM | Link to this
Why don’t they have a pro football team in Alabama?………….Because then the folks in Atlanta would want one
By gdg73
February 21, 2007 07:49 PM | Link to this
Let’s talk about the upcoming combine, free agency , and the draft.
Will we sign Kerney or will we let him walk? Will Demorrio replace Brooking at WLB?
Who will possibly take Schaub off our hands?
Will Griffith be re-signed?
Who does the team prefer Landry or Nelson?
Could we pick up Quentin Moses in the second round? What will the team do about the receiver position? Will Ojinnaka and Omiyale get a chance to play? What about Beck competing for the MLB spot? Will Jimmy start camp as our starting CB or FS? Will Norwood get more playing time?
Let the law worry about Babineaux for now, and you do your job and write an article about the FOOTBALL TEAM instead of a damn dead dog.
By chuck100d
February 21, 2007 07:53 PM | Link to this
Arthur, the behavior of some individuals on this team are making you look like a complete idiot. I doubt these folks would heve been accepted and protected when trying to grow Home Depot.
By wow
February 21, 2007 07:54 PM | Link to this
Great I always get a good laugh when Blank does something. I hope he deals with it as good as he delt with the Vick and his drugs in Miami incident, or the Ron Mexico incident.
By Mean D
February 21, 2007 07:54 PM | Link to this
So Michael “Ron Mexico” Vick doesn’t have a history of bad behavior, huh? Who does Blank brain thik he is fooling? This thug acting, bird flipping, dope smoking, herpes ridden IDIOT is the joke of the NFL. Hey Arty, what exactly do you consider GOOD behavior?
By D-Cider
February 21, 2007 07:57 PM | Link to this
Gee BUSHWACKER, I bet Blank wishes he knew as much about football as YOU do.lol. and LARRY, you have already proven yourself to be fool by your previous postings..you don’t have to be taken for one.
By The Man
February 21, 2007 08:00 PM | Link to this
“Who Cares” is a filty beast…we should take a bat to his head and spread his brains all over the sidewalk..people will thank us for doing so!!!!!!!!!
By Scott
February 21, 2007 08:02 PM | Link to this
Babineaux’s girlfriend is lucky she wasn’t home. Could you imagine if she was home, she would be the one that was hit. It is inexcusable to hit any animal. Pitbulls are only violent if you raise them that way people. The fact is that one of God’s creatures layed on the floor dying, unable to call 911 or defend himself from Babineaux. If Babineaux is guilty he should never be allowed to play on this team again. I know I won’t pay his salary by going to anymore games.
By ATL MOT
February 21, 2007 08:03 PM | Link to this
Actually, “Shayna” is the Yiddish word for beautiful, not Hebrew. Take it from me I’m the ATL MOT!
By dirrtybird
February 21, 2007 08:05 PM | Link to this
As stupid as athletes are… It’s funny to read how much stupider the fans are. Don’t believe everything you hear, before you hear all of the facts. The media will tell you anything so that you’ll keep watching and listening. They embellish stories as a matter of procedure. All of you idiots eat it right up. Who was there? Did this dog attack Babineaux or did Babineaux attack the dog? Unless you were there and know, just shut up. What time does the race start?
By ahsan
February 21, 2007 08:06 PM | Link to this
BUSHWACKER, with all due respect, I certainly do not care if he flipped off the fans, we’re notoriously one of the worst fan bases in ALL of sports. How would you like for fans to be on your bandwagon when everything is good, and when it starts going bad, all the “fans” jump off? True fans stick to their team like those of the Chicago Cubs or the Cleveland Browns.
By Ahsan
February 21, 2007 08:07 PM | Link to this
BUSHWACKER, with all due respect, I certainly do not care if he flipped off the fans, we’re notoriously one of the worst fan bases in ALL of sports. How would you like for fans to be on your bandwagon when everything is good, and when it starts going bad, all the “fans” jump off? True fans stick to their team like those of the Chicago Cubs or the Cleveland Browns.
By Hasavior
February 21, 2007 08:08 PM | Link to this
If the only thing you guys got out of this article is that one statement about Vick not haivng a history of bad behavior, goes to show how passionate you guys are to see his downfall as a professional and person.
You and i and Vick are not Christ, Allah, Yahweh or any higher power being. We all react in ways that might be favorable and other times not -definitely if there are non-professional fans like us critizing(sp) is every move and the details of his contract.
He’s no Pete Rose, He is no Crocker, He’s no T.O., He’s no Clinical Alcoholic, Never been jailed, bar fight, rape cases, etc… Flipping of the finger… Get over it.
My children have. I processed with them and they moved passed it thru adult processing… Get over it….
By ABlank
February 21, 2007 08:14 PM | Link to this
Hey I second that motion of taking a bat to the heads of “whocares” and “Cruzin” In addition to speading there brains all over the sidewalk, I say we smash their knee caps and let a Pit Bull come and gnaw at the stumps…LOL D*******!!
By D-Cider
February 21, 2007 08:14 PM | Link to this
Dan Le Batard, on more than one occasion, has made the comment that considering the violence in the game, we shouldn’t be alarmed about a violence off the field from NFL players. Although I don’t agree with his assessment of the game, his opinion certainly has more merit than most of the moronic posts that fill this blog.
By WhoCares
February 21, 2007 08:17 PM | Link to this
Hi WhoCares here to be back to say I am sorry if I offended anyone. It’s just that Pitt Bulls are really bad, you know? I saw that movie “ATL” and there was a guy feeding one and it was vicious! By the way, that was not a bad movie at all. It dort or reminded me of House Party meets Dazed and Confused.
Speaking of movies, has anyone reported the movie that Babineaux’s girlfriend went to see after their fight? That is an important piece of evidence here because it will tell a lot about her and her state of mind. For example, if she went to see a light hearted film like Borat she probably was not in a bad mood, but if she went to see The Queen or something like that there’s a good chance there were some REAL issues between her and Babineax.
By GMK
February 21, 2007 08:19 PM | Link to this
Mr Blank should do nothing until the police investigate and the legal process is completed. Mr Babineaux should recieve no special consideration because he is a Falcon. If he is found to have committed a crime and is convicted, he should recieve a harsh sentence. Animal cruelty is a heinous crime and should be punished accordingly.
By stereotypes
February 21, 2007 08:21 PM | Link to this
The negative label, “thug”, placed on 90% of NFL players is ludicrous (hint: JC). Poor choices should not equate to one being labeled a “thug”. We all have room for improvement in our personal lives irrespective of career (high profile or not). To everyone “hating” on Mike Vick - don’t be so quick to air out his laundry, I’m sure your laundry isn’t so clean.
By Cruzin
February 21, 2007 08:25 PM | Link to this
The people writing in appear far worse in moral character than the accused Falcon.
By lakeside
February 21, 2007 08:25 PM | Link to this
Good objective write up. I think Bushwacker & Larry had the best comments.
By Dustin from Dville
February 21, 2007 08:29 PM | Link to this
I am a true Falcons fan and always will be! While i dont think that smoking pot and having sex is bad i still dont think vick is anywhere smart enough to lead a team to a superbowl victory. I wanna like vick and i think hes good enough to lead us to the playoffs. But the fact is that in the playoffs at some point we will be loosing a game in the 4th quarter and need a comeback. 0-17 in 4th quarter comebacks says it all! I hope patrino will have the balls to put in schuab in the 4th if the falcons need a comeback. The falcons should use a 2 quartback system according to the situation! If the last coach had used this method we would of made the playoffs last year!!
By Jazzy-ez realamius
February 21, 2007 08:35 PM | Link to this
Killing a pitbull? That should be a law. See a pitbull, and kill it. Of course, Babineau probably bought the two beasts for his ho’. Typically, drug dealers and those with threatened egos have pitbulls.
By Judge Snales
February 21, 2007 08:40 PM | Link to this
I second the majority opinion.
Arthur, you sound like a delusional idiot whenever you try and portray Mike Vick as a model citizen.
We just ain’t buyin’ it!
By Matthew at the SLC
February 21, 2007 08:40 PM | Link to this
Wow, I love these articles, because it gives the idiots with hate in their hearts have a venue for what they want to say. But here’s the things guys like Larry and Bushwhacker will never get. People don’t pay attention to what you say when it is full of hate and judgment. Do you think when the Klan rallies, they are getting tons of new recruits? Yeah… NO! Klan members make their own recruits through idiot breeding. And I’m sure the Larry’s of the world spread their kind of hate the same way. I feel sorry for Larry and Bushwhacker’s kids. They never had a chance with fathers like that.
By Doglover
February 21, 2007 08:44 PM | Link to this
Hey Whocares, The fact that your harsh opinion of Pitbulls comes from the movie “ATL” is pathetic.
By Chris
February 21, 2007 08:45 PM | Link to this
Once again the Vick haters come out, hey if Vick never came to Atlanta, we would probably not have a team by now. It would probably be like the “Mississippi Falcons” or something of that nature. Listen Blank and Vick keep the seats filled on Sunday, stop hatin, hey if youdont like Vick then stop watching the Falcons and following there every move on this website haters. Bushwacker, you should become a colts fan because your probably a bandwagon jumper punk.
By Jazzy-ez realamius
February 21, 2007 08:54 PM | Link to this
Hey Doglover, check the news every once in a while, numbnuts. Every week a pitbull bites the face off of some innocent child. You’re the one that is pathetic.
Now tell me how sweet your cute little pitbull is. “Wouldn’t hurt fly! So good with children!”
By koolpoppa
February 21, 2007 09:00 PM | Link to this
I see the same fools that bash MV on the Falcons message boards have run over here to spread their venom. Hey why don’t y’all stand up…oops you can’t where’s my mongoose! Who needs a pitbuill!
By D from Dville
February 21, 2007 09:02 PM | Link to this
i agree….pple with pitbulls around kids are idiots! either u really dont love your kids or your just plain stupid!
By AKa
February 21, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this
Vick can’t lead a comeback? I think the Falcons not being able to comeback was more a coaching issue rather than Vick. The guy wasn’t allowed to audible, teams knew what the falcons were going to do….I think ppl forget the comebacks he had Mora’s first year or that Pittsburg game with Dan reeves which ended in a tie. If the right calls are made and then he is capable of doing something.
By Mean D
February 21, 2007 09:09 PM | Link to this
Vick is a JOKE. There fore he belongs with the Falcons because they are they joke of the NFL.
By Falcon Down on the Field
February 21, 2007 09:09 PM | Link to this
All I can say is, who the hell cares. The Falcons suck, on and off the field. If Babineaux killed this dog, then he should be given to animal control for euthanization. If Vick smokes weed, knocks up chicks and gives them the clap, what do you care, unless you’re a Republican and your daughter slept with Number 7. None of this would matter if the Falcons went 14-2 and won the Super Bowl, and you damned well know it.
By icing
February 21, 2007 09:11 PM | Link to this
Babineaux, should get 20 years just like the mulder brothers!
By Nick
February 21, 2007 09:12 PM | Link to this
What a shame. People pay good money and time to see these retards play football. They are paid WAY too much for what they do first of all and that allows them the freedom to do whatever the hell they want and with the idea that they’ll get away with it…like getting so p** off at your girlfriend that you and your dumb a* has to take it out on her dog…another living thing that has nothing to do with this idiot’s rage and immaturity. For shame…on Babineau and his fans. Wake up call….think about this retard’s treatment of an innocent animal AND his girlfriend due to his inability to control his own anger next time you buy a Falcons ticket or watch this sorry excuse on television.
By Michael
February 21, 2007 09:22 PM | Link to this
I hope Babineaux gets convicted of this…disgusting. What an awful coach to condone such behavior from one of its players…Banineaux deserves jail/prison time and needs to be kept away from girlfriends AND pittbulls for a very long time…what a complete and utter stupid a* he is.
By Earthmom
February 21, 2007 09:27 PM | Link to this
Once again, uninformed comments from morons who clearly know NOTHING about dogs. Pit bulls are no more dangerous than any other breed, but when they are the preferred breed of mental midgets to be used as guard dogs or thug accoutrements and are trained to be mean by starving, beating and mistreating them, and they respond to this cruelty by retaliating against humans, the entire breed is branded vicious. ANY – yes ANY - breed of dog – as well as humans - will eventually turn savage and dangerous if conditioned in this way. GET IT PEOPLE – it’s not the breed of dog that’s the problem.
As far as Jonathan Babineaux is concerned, he’s just another example of a borderline sociopathic personality who has no compunction about bashing in a defenseless creature’s head as a way to get back at someone. If his girlfriend doesn’t run like hell from this guy, her head will be next. The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior . . .
By Richard
February 21, 2007 09:28 PM | Link to this
Babineaux…you complete idiot. Why didn’t you just take a long walk to blow off steam…why beat your girlfriend’s dog to death? I have lost all respect for you. You are a disgrace.
By sickandtired
February 21, 2007 09:29 PM | Link to this
When you stupid a$$ people gonna stop using the vent to show your hatred? Can’t you stop hating for a day? This stuff is old. Find something else to hate about. Is your life okay? Ok, stupid question because obviously it’s not. Let me suggest something. Try God! Try anything but hating all the time! The whole thing boils down to them making a lot more money than you when you had as much of a chance as them. Get a life stupid. I’m surprised you even know how to logon a computer.
By Shea
February 21, 2007 09:30 PM | Link to this
Wow! These BLOG things are kinda dangerous. It’s hard to tell the pitbulls from the idiots….
By Devon
February 21, 2007 09:34 PM | Link to this
Dear sickandtired,
I’m sick and tired of overpaid atheletes getting away with MURDER. I know about God…I don’t beat to death an innocent animal. Yeah…that’s right…God wouldn’t condone that. Do I hate Babineaux…of course not. But justice needs to be served and killing something because you’re mad or p** off does not give you the “out of jail” or “free to pass” card. Sorry. But it doesn’t and it absolutely shouldn’t.
By David
February 21, 2007 09:36 PM | Link to this
“The whole thing boils down to them making a lot more money than you”?
Wrong!!!!
Its about animal cruelty! Profession doesn’t matter!!!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
February 21, 2007 09:45 PM | Link to this
Thank you Arthur Blank, for being a reasonable and sane human being. Too bad not everyone who blogs on ajc.com can say the same about themselves.
By Jesse Bee
February 21, 2007 09:51 PM | Link to this
Babinnooo should be castrated, so he can think about his murder for the rest of his black life. What do you expeck from a ThuG? It’s hard out there fo a pimp.
By SharonH
February 21, 2007 09:56 PM | Link to this
Nothing about these last five weeks, Blank said, should be seen as indictment of the Falcons’ screening process.
And why should it? Gee Mark, tell me: how exactly does one screen for a dog killer? How do you screen for a guy who gets stopped by some gung-ho TSA screener?
Mark, as a sportswriter you must be aware that bad behavior is by no means confined to the Falcons or are you going to pretend otherwise?
Are we going to be treated to 10 days of coverage over how this dog died like the way you crammed the nonissue/Michael Vick incident? I know the Hawks are boring but there must be something else in the sports world that ya’ll can find to write about instead of trying to whip your less tolerant fans into a foaming at the mouth frenzy every time one of the Falcons gets a parking ticket. Give it a rest, please.
I didn’t know that you and the rest of the AJC staff were so puritanical. Please try to stick to reporting the facts because punditry is not your strong suit. Enough already.
By cc
February 21, 2007 09:56 PM | Link to this
After reading these posts you would think that Vick was Pete Rose’s bookie. So much hate for a guy that’s not perfect but scutinized by the media because he can run fast. It’s hate highlighted by fear. So let me some it up for you guys. No, your son can’t be slow and play qb in the league when he’s older. Yes, your daughter does think Vick is cute and want’s a Black guy just like him. Yes, Vick will continue to start and sell tickets in Atlanta. No, there’s no great White Hope on the horizon. Yes, your wife is getting more attracted to Vick as you belittle him. Yes, your wife and daughter are surprisingly interested more in Atlanta sports since Vick’s arrival. No, your daughter isn’t attracted to the neighbor’s kid, she’s into sports! Yes, the women at your job do think you’re a racist idiot!
By Jazzy-ez realamius
February 21, 2007 09:57 PM | Link to this
Earthmoron, you use the same, tired, imbilcilic arguement all pitbull owners use. ANY BREED??? How about a chihuahua? That’s a breed. Funny, I haven’t heard about a chihuahua killing a little girl in Atlanta this week.
How about this. Every newborn gets their own cute, cuddly, precious pitbull right in the crib with them! Let’s make it a law!
By Steve
February 21, 2007 09:58 PM | Link to this
I think it’s sad if the guy really did kill the dog. It sounds like he just kicked it to death because he was mad at his girlfriend. He should definitely go to jail and have to donate $50,000 or so to the humane society.
By OddJob
February 21, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
I stay away from Falcons post for the most part now.There are good fans who communicate with some civility,but too many are punkish in their postings.As for Vick I’m just tired of the whole thing,it would suit me if he were traded just to have him removed as an issue.
By Bird Watcher
February 21, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
Another crap article by our columnists. Thank for wasting my time. Please AJC bring in some fresh writers. We are sick of hackneyed, Jerry Springer articles.
By drsoul
February 21, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this
Hmmmm…’sickandtired’….such anger in your heart…chill out…the pot calling the kettle black…!!!! we are beginning to see why Arthur was herded out of HD…as Bernie mentioned about bringing Nardelli in…Arthur had reached his limits and as to the Falcons, has jumped in way over his head…!!!!
By MJS
February 21, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this
Read the damn police report, Mr. Blank. Go talk to the Vet at the Emergency Clinic. Facts are there! Once again, the Falcons defend their thugs..
The American Psychiatric Association identifies cruelty to animals as one of the diagnostic criteria for conduct disorders, and the FBI uses reports of animal abuse in analyzing the threat potential of suspected and known criminals. Experts agree that it is the severity of the behavior-not the species of the victim.
By Mike in Woodstock
February 21, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
I don’t get it. You’re making more in a few short years than most people make in a lifetime. All that’s asked of you is to act like a professional on and off the field during that time. It’s not rocket science. Your girlfriend p** you off? So what? Break up with her and get a new one. SHEEZZ. You want to spoke weed? Wait til you get home and do it.
By dorrel
February 21, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
Hell, I hope the falcons show the same rage against opponents as they do against their fans and pitbulls! People should be licensed to own any type of “potentially lethal” animals. Unfortunately, pitbulls appeal to people whom themselves should be euthanised. Yeah, i’m speaking to lowlife thugs and dealers and their “stank ho’s”
By Bye
February 21, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
Babineaux is nothing more than a coward. What kind of a human being would kill a dog to get back at someone.
I’ve had it. You people that think the Super bowl is so important that these kind of things can happen over and over can have the sport. I’m through. Enough already.
By Jerome
February 21, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
This has nothing to do with MV and people are still involving him. Why aren’t you guys all over Tom Brady knocking up his former girlfriend…oh, I forgot, he’s white.
By Jerome
February 21, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
This issue has nothing to do with MV and some seem to still taake shots at him. Why aren’t you guys all over Tom Brady for knocking up his girlriend……oh I forgot’ he’s light skinned
By sugarlee
February 21, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
Reading all comments on here makes it easy to see why so many innocent men are put away. Most of the people who comment here seem to be eager to hang anybody. Especially Michael Vick. Vick I like you man, but you might be a lot happier winning for someplace else. You really don’t have to take all this. Go somewhere like Tampa and come back here and kill us.
By dorrel
February 21, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this
If the unibomber, sadam hussein and adolf hitler made up the most dominant line in NFL history and brought a Dynasty to the ATL. I would still support my Falcons! Bring us a damn superbowl! You herpes infested, dog killing, hooker soliciting (Eugene Robinson)animals. Who care whom they bring in. I sure as hell don’t. Let he who has not sinned cast the first stone!
By Dog
February 21, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
I don’t know about what happened to the dog, but the line from the neighbors is that the argument Babs had with his girl was about him being gay. Dude is a homo and she found out. After what happened with the NBA guy, Babs could not afford for word to get out. My guess is he freaked out and butchered the dog. Sending him to jail will be like doing him a favor.
By Bullwinkle
February 21, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
From reading these posts, I know racism and bigotry is alive and well the the metro area. People, can’t we all just a get along??
By me
February 21, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this
Blank cannot say anything about anyone’s behavior. He cheated several times on his first wife. At the time of his divorce, it was the largest settlement in Georgia history. Now he has a trophy wife. There was a sexual complaint against him by the accounting department of the Falcons when he first bought the team. How much did he pay them off to stop talking?
By Ga.Sofan#1
February 21, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this
P. Manning has who to throw it to? 2 #1’s. Palmer has 85, Henry, and Whosyourmamma. Bolger has Big Game and Bruce. Jake Dahommie has Smith and Johnson. Don’t even think about Brees. When Pep had Moss is was amazing. Joe to Rice; Young to Rice. Mr. Chunky soup had T.0. that year and what a difference he made before the saga. Golden Boy Brady and That burger guy in PA had super bowl MVP type WRs. Someone please tell me why Vick is compared to these guys when he NEVER had a TRUE #1. Even D. Carr has Johnson WTF!
By trilltalk
February 21, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this
LETS SEE,MOST OF THE PEOPLE IN HOLLYWOOD ARE F-UP,BASKETBALL PLAYERS ARE OUT OF CONTROL,EVERYBODY IN POLITICS ARE DIRTY,PRESIDENT IS JUST——- SO I THINK THAT ALL IN ALL THE NFL HAS IT GOING ON
By blue
February 21, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this
Larry at 7:22 do you no how stupid you sound look up the meaning of illgitimate before you use it mike sends alot of time with his kids and pays more child support than you make. Do you know the facts about the herps case are you just talking stupid again. and i know you have never fliped the bird to anyone
By IraqDawg
February 21, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this
Trade Vick for 1 round picks over next 2-3 years and Let Schaub take us to the superbowl!!!!!!!!
By peacemaker
February 21, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this
WOW, I CANNOT BELIEVE ALL THE SAINTS THAT POSTED ON THIS BLOG. HAHAHAHAHA THE DEVIL IS A LIE!!!
By peacemaker
February 21, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this
DO YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPEN INSIDE OF THE HOME? DO ANYONE KNOW WHAT HAPPEN INSIDE OF THE HOME? OR ARE YOU BASING YOU ANSWER BY WHAT THE MEDIA IS REPORTING??
By Andrea
February 21, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this
The kids are going to jail and Babineaux should go to. The necropsy will tell exactly that puppy died. All animal lovers should Boycott the FALCONS.
By abc
February 21, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this
Man, no wonder the players are such a***** these days. Look at the fans, as represented on this blog. I haven’t watched pro ball since they went on strike in the 80’s, when they went on strike, and you’ve reinforced the reasons I don’t watch. Thank you!
By peacemaker
February 21, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this
THE POSTING ON THIS BLOG IS SOOO DISGUSTING. ALOT OF YOU PEOPLE THAT POSTED ON THIS IS VERY IGNORANT & STUPID. AND YOU HAVE THE NERVES TO COMMENT OVER SOMEONE ELSE LIFE/SITUATION AS IF YOU NEVER DONE OR SAID ANYTHING CARELESS. PLEASE BELIEVE YOU ARE NO BETTER THAN THESE GUYS YOU ALL ARE RIPPING TO PIECES WITH YOUR CHILDESS COMMENTS. WHY IS MIKE VICK STILL AN ISSUE????? THE CASE HAS BEEN SOLVED & CLOSED. GET OVER IT. GO AND SOLVE & CLOSED SOME ISSUES IN YOUR ON LIVES AND PRACTICE LOVE. PEACE OUT IDIOTS!!!
By Thomas
February 21, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this
Even if Babineaux did nothing to the dog, what type of cold person calls the girlfriend and tells her she needs to take the animal to the vet hospital? No matter what he may feel toward her at the time, time was of the essence and he should have taken the animal for care without calling. But, that would not have ruined her evening, would it?
Good call on bringing Tom Brady’s bad behavior out. He probably is a low life. And, what about his hack actor girlfriend? Did she think this would get her the attention to get more parts? Well, at least she did not abort the child. Oh, wait, then she would not have a paternity suit.
Here is another guy - Danny Heatley. He effing kills his buddy by driving his $100K Ferrari too fast for Lenox Road. That low life bastard should have been put in jail for 15 years. Instead, he gets special treatment. Any other person is doing time for vehicular homicide.
And, good point about Blank. He probably is looking the other way because he is just a low life with money. Bernie Marcus was the brains behind Home Depot anyway, Blank was just an accountant.
The problem with Vick is that he has not had any positive male role models telling him what is and is not good behavior. Like Anna Nicole, he is surrounded by enablers who tell him, its okay. Your a victim. Your being worngly criticized. He needs a strong coach, a strong GM and a strong owner who will read him the riot act when he messes up. Also, remember, the guy became one of the highest paid NFL players with only two years in college and a scum bag coach like Beamer. No wonder he has been screwing up off field.
And, who is really the racist here anyway? Blank, who could have hired Lovie Smith but did not and who soft peddles it when his African American players self-destruct or the fans angry about these antics?
Its all a mess and pro sports really are not worth it.
By abc
February 21, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this
Yet another example.
I figure if the fans are such azzholes why should the players not be so? The part I wonder about it why such azzholes can afford the dayum tickets.
Same with the dayum Braves. Who needs ‘em. I’d rather go see the Rome Braves, or the Macon Music, any day. Case in point, I’ve NEVER been to Turner Field. And NEVER will.
By bucko
February 22, 2007 06:29 AM | Link to this
VICK AS Q.B. AND A COLLEGE COACH SO FANS HERE WE GO AGAIN WITH ANOTHER SCREWED UP YEAR. DO NOT FIGHT FOR KERNEY HE IS TO OLD AND WASH UP AND OVER RATED. MOST OF HIS SACKS CAME WHEN THE Q.B. HELD THE BALL TO LONG.
By jerry
February 22, 2007 06:30 AM | Link to this
I’m sorry but I have no sympathy for the girl friend. Pit bulls harm more children than child molesters and they should definetly be outlawed. Anyone owning one should have to wear a big red “S” on their forehead—for stupid.
By Steve
February 22, 2007 07:05 AM | Link to this
Well that certainly is a selling point for the character and personal integrity of the members of the football team - at least I have two players who havent been in jail! Well lets call for sainthood! Folks its so simple - just vote with your pocketbook as to whether you condone and support this type of behavior.
By Charles
February 22, 2007 07:10 AM | Link to this
Thank you GDG73….People it is a dog and we don’t know the whole story….It amazes me when all of you can cast the first stone because you live in a glass house.
What are the off season plans? DO we plan on drafting another running back what do you think they are going to do with Patrick Kerney?
Let’s talk football!!!! Go Dirty Birds!!!!
By myconju
February 22, 2007 07:23 AM | Link to this
This article should never have mentioned Vick. He was never arrested for anything. The Miami police may not have arrested him had they found one little particle of mj. However, the league would have dealt with him, and so would the Atlanta Falcons.
On the other hand, whether you like animals or not, or whether you like Pit Bulls or not, cruelty to animals is cruelty to animals. Babineaux has been arrested and charged. If found guilty he should pay the price. Hopefully, this young man did not hurt his animal and will be vindicated.
By Corey
February 22, 2007 07:35 AM | Link to this
Whatever happened with the allegations about spousal abuse cmplaints surrounding Bobby Cox? I remember somewhere back in the nineties it was reported that Mrs. Cox called the police and reported that Bobby Cox got rough with her. What? Now all of you Vick haters have amnesia? Is Bobby Cox really a wife beater? Don’t believe this was reported? Go the AJC archives and look it up.
By Kevin
February 22, 2007 07:35 AM | Link to this
Instead of worry over a dog blank n the rest of owners n Players a*. leader.Should have health care for players who have injurys after football n owners n comms. of football pay for the retired players med,plans!Come on upshaw league has more money and should pay if players knees bad from playin n stuff like campbell of oilers…..WE forget those players i see
By cecile
February 22, 2007 07:36 AM | Link to this
You people who are calling pit bulls “filthy beast” are mislead. Do you know that more people get bitten by “sweet” little cocker spaniels, Labs, Golden etc.. every year than by pits. Don’t get me wrong, Pit bulls are strong animals but they are not filthy beast. I have a pit and a toy poodle and my poodle is meaner and will bite way before my pit will. Ask RESPONSIBLE pit owners and you will see that we find them a joy to have. Babineaux should be kicked off of the team and sent to hell. As far as VICK, he is a bum and not too intelligent but then again how many football players are?
By Jack
February 22, 2007 07:41 AM | Link to this
Mr. Blank finds himself with some overpaid kids. Think that the Falcons are in for a long, frustrating slide. Vick has lost a lot of credibility with the community at large, and there may come a time when they are going to have to pay half way decent players more than they are worth just to get them to sign with Atlanta. Folks want to be on a winning team — not a bunch of useless ‘one man shows’! Why are we not hearing from the Coach? Has Mr. Blank become Jerry Jones in disguise?
By scott
February 22, 2007 07:41 AM | Link to this
Mr. Blank, please stop mistaking us as fools. Yes, the judicial system should be the one to take care of the dog killer but you, sir, must suffer from cranial rectal inversion if you think Michael Vick has no history of trouble. If you want to treat owning the Falcons as a business you better recognize, and quickly, that there is a recall coming soon on the product if things do not change!
By Pat
February 22, 2007 07:44 AM | Link to this
If Babineaux, is found guilty, he should be fired, and sentenced. Hopefully, his girlfriend, has the sense to run for her life, as she’ll be the next to get her head bashed in, if she goes back to him. What (except the threat to your own life) would posess anyone to beat an animal to death?
By Pop
February 22, 2007 07:49 AM | Link to this
You Vick bashers aren’t season ticket holders anyway, so who CARES what you think!!
By Rick
February 22, 2007 07:53 AM | Link to this
Most of you hillbillies are just upset that the “All American QB” Tom Brady is going to be a chic’s “Baby Daddy”…lolol
By Fal Canned
February 22, 2007 07:54 AM | Link to this
Mr. Blank, IF you think that your players are not a problem, you are a MORON. Vick does not produce and Babineaux is an animal killer. Pitbull or not, torturing an animal exhibits a sadistic and dark side of a person. What a MORON Blank is.
By Russell
February 22, 2007 08:03 AM | Link to this
Amazing, guy kills an attack dog, uproar, outrageous, cruelty, lets fry his butt. Guy kills another guy…Aww, it was an accident, it’s ok, it’s not really murder, he probably didn’t do it..let him go… Values, morals, human ethics are all twisted and misplaced.
It wasn’t a defenseless poodle…
By CM
February 22, 2007 08:06 AM | Link to this
Typical NFL player…overpayed and boring sport!
By greg
February 22, 2007 08:06 AM | Link to this
Why dont you good ol boys say what you really want to say up front.You hate the fact that a young Black man is making more money in one game than you will make in your whole little life. People make mistakes Brady, Farve ,Clinton,Bush,C.Jones,As soon as you understand that a Black man can have a more privilage life than yours,you will be ok.I would be willing to bet that if we cleaned your closet, there would be a whole of questionable things to come out. So just stick to your trailers and ride the wave. peace, Mr. Mexico
By LOWES
February 22, 2007 08:06 AM | Link to this
Thanks, again, Arthur.
By Eric
February 22, 2007 08:19 AM | Link to this
Dogs are a reflection of their owners. If a pitbull is mean, it’s not in their genes, it’s a direct result of the way they’ve been treated by their humans. It’s not brain surgery. You and make a poodle mean if you work at it. Some people shouldn’t have guns and some people shouldn’t have pitbulls. And Jonathan Babineaux should be cut from the team.
By Darrel
February 22, 2007 08:22 AM | Link to this
More and more it sounds as if Mr. Blank owns a gang of thugs rather than a “professional” football team. And he is a “proud” owner of this bunch of thugs? Not much to be proud of Mr. Blank, not much at all. I, for one, really thought you had more class than what is beginning to show. Who is in control of this “gang”? Sure doesn’t seem to be Arthur.
By Lady T
February 22, 2007 08:25 AM | Link to this
Greg…I LOVE YOU!!
By heather
February 22, 2007 08:25 AM | Link to this
How bout we not turn this into a pit bull bashing? I own 2 pit bulls and they are the best dogs I’ve ever had. They live with my 9 year old daughter, a cat and a bunny and we’re all still alive and well. If this guy beat in a dogs head, I don’t care if it was a poodle or a pit bull…what he did was wrong and he should be punished. He didn’t do this because he was being attacked by the dog! If that was the case, he would have rushed out to announce that to the public as his defense.
By MAF
February 22, 2007 08:37 AM | Link to this
Hey, J—K OFF Jermone, the people in Boston are all over TB, not because he’s white, but for what he did. Racism will go away when we all stop trying to make everything white or black.
By ATLIEN
February 22, 2007 08:41 AM | Link to this
Carlton Powell WE DO NOT CARE BECAUSE YOU ARE A REDSKINS FAN.
By EW
February 22, 2007 08:47 AM | Link to this
You’re much more likely to be car jacked or asaulted by a young male wearing an Atlanta Falcons number 7 jersey than you are a young male wearing a Colts number 18 jersey. When I see a young male in Atlanta, especailly DeKalb where I live, wearing a number 7 Falcons jersey, I lock the doors of the car and lock and load. Some of you can call it racism, whatever you wish to, I call it reality.
By REAL FALCON FAN
February 22, 2007 08:49 AM | Link to this
Ed chew on this: A thug A person, usually a man, who has taken to a life of violent crime. Usually raised in a hostile, deprived environment. They could be hanging with gangs on street corners. They differ from gangsters in the respect that hey are not into organising crime. A thug could graduate into a gangster and may work for one, while still doing spontaneous muggings or dealing. When in gangs they can be proprietary about their turf.
By REAL FALCON FAN
February 22, 2007 08:49 AM | Link to this
Ed chew on this: A thug A person, usually a man, who has taken to a life of violent crime. Usually raised in a hostile, deprived environment. They could be hanging with gangs on street corners. They differ from gangsters in the respect that hey are not into organising crime. A thug could graduate into a gangster and may work for one, while still doing spontaneous muggings or dealing. When in gangs they can be proprietary about their turf.
By ATLIEN
February 22, 2007 08:50 AM | Link to this
Carlton Powell WE DO NOT CARE BECAUSE YOU ARE A REDSKINS FAN.
By marbo
February 22, 2007 08:51 AM | Link to this
Some of you people are some of the most full of s**, hypocrticrtical, judgemental, SOB’s i have ever heard make a comment in my life. “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” Some of you on here are pedophiles, liars, cheats, thieves, and everything else i could name, but you contiune to pass your racially motivated judgement on through these blogs on a daily basis. You need to worry about your own life because some of you are going to bust HELL wide open.
By Rebecca
February 22, 2007 08:54 AM | Link to this
THE COMMENTS ABOUT KILLING AN ANIMAL..IS DISGUSTING and YOU ARE A POOR EXCUSE FOR A HUMAN BEING… THIS POOR DOG DID NOTHING. IT WAS A PIT MIX, and anyone who has half a brain knows dogs are man’s best friend for a reason. Are you that miserable with your own existence that you say such harsh and disgusting things about a poor defenseless soul… YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED.. ghetto trash..
By Darrin "The Vent King"
February 22, 2007 09:01 AM | Link to this
Bushwacker and Larry: Oh, I’m sure it’s easy for you to sit behind your little laptops at your local Starbuck’s and act holier than thou, but I know you two are no better no matter what you post. I guess it’s a tension relief for you to crab about someone else’s mistakes and judge them like you nose has always been clean. I also suppose because you’re not famous and made millions it’s okay for you to screw up like most people who are not so do. Your neighboor, your boss, the cop who gave you ticket, ALL of us were born into sin. So kill that cynical judgemental criticism before the Lord strikes you down for being no better than the person you throw stones at with your perfect azz.
GO FALCONS
By dirteebirdee
February 22, 2007 09:04 AM | Link to this
“THE GREAT QUARTERBACKS still WIN when things are not going right, they figure out a way to get it done, they don’t pout on the sidelines and blame the coaches or the receivers or the linemen”
you seem to forget about (1) Peyton Manning… I’ll cut you some slack he did finally win a big game and he blamed a kicker! :)
By Harry
February 22, 2007 09:07 AM | Link to this
Pit bulls are just like any other dog; they are what their trainers make them. This jerk killed his girlfriends pet! He did it for spite during a domestic dispute. That makes it domestic violence and Terrorist Threats and Acts, also a felony in Georgia.
By Amy
February 22, 2007 09:12 AM | Link to this
EW,
Do you lock your door and “Lock & Load”, when you are in the surburbs around your Meth using, child molesting cannibal neighbors?
By JAW JACKBIRD
February 22, 2007 09:13 AM | Link to this
Hey EW DID YOU GET THOSE #7 JERSEY CRIME STATS FROM. YOU GENIUS. YOU SHOULD JUST MOVE TO MAYBERRY BECAUSE YOU ARE SMALL MINDED.
By Ed
February 22, 2007 09:14 AM | Link to this
I say it again and again, Vick and the Falcons are a total THUG team. Always have been always will be. Who cares about the Falcons anyway, the only press they get is for criminal behavior, not for the playoffs or winning games. The NFL is all about one guy and one guy only, number 18, MANNING, the face of the NFL.
By ladilovely
February 22, 2007 09:16 AM | Link to this
As soon as a Vick start winning. All you RACIST will be cheering him and trying to get his autograph. You are just mad because he makes more than your whole family and HE IS ONLY 26 YEARS OLD
By JAW JACK BIRD
February 22, 2007 09:22 AM | Link to this
ED YOU ARE A THUG YOURSELF. A TOTAL THUG TEAM? WHAT IN THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT? YOU REALLY LOVE #7 TELL THE TRUTH ED & EW.
By Jay
February 22, 2007 09:22 AM | Link to this
Thugs are so predictable. I knew before I even read the story about Babineaux that the dog involved was a pit bull. How? Because it’s thug protocol to have (or give your girlfriend) a pit bull, not for companionship but for image. I’m sure he also drives a “tricked out” SUV with chrome rims, one of his favorite movies is Scarface, and has a child/children out of wedlock.
We get it, dude: You’re macho.
Why don’t you jump off the overcrowded commercial hip-hop bandwagon and think for yourself?
By FalconDawg/UGA
February 22, 2007 09:28 AM | Link to this
Will somebody give EW a banjo so he can “SHUT UP”! Now I can go put on my
4 Favre jersey and jack some mofos.By Dale Jr. #3
February 22, 2007 09:32 AM | Link to this
JAY REAL HIP_HOP IS NOT COMMERCIAL. KNOW BEFORE YOU WRITE.
By JAW JACKBIRD
February 22, 2007 09:35 AM | Link to this
I agree with Mr. Case about the myspace page and jersey.
By Mr. Blank
February 22, 2007 09:37 AM | Link to this
We all know the new N-Word = Thug!! So as long as you peckerwoods continue to use it in your posts, race will always be the subject!! The sad part is you are the first to cry/whine about folks using the race card…lol If you didn’t deal the deck..it wouldn’t get played!! HYPOCRITS!!
By bill gillispee
February 22, 2007 09:38 AM | Link to this
Wow, Mr. blank, What would of happened if one of your managers were arrested at home depot, I’m sure they would of been gone. Your Falcons are loaded with thugs. Get rid of them, the biggest thug is Vick.
By animal lover
February 22, 2007 09:44 AM | Link to this
I think that if the facts come out and he’s guilty, they really should sentence him like they did the 2 teens who tortured and baked that puppy to death. it is time to show people, no matter your job, status or wealth, that cruelty to animals is a CRIME and should be treated as such. People who get convicted of battery (whether it be a punch in the face to someone WHO CAN PRESS CHARGES)can be put in jail but only get a lousy fine when they beat a HELPLESS animal.
also, i’ve been bit by not one but two dogs…not by a pit (and my brother has 2 who are sweet and lovable and have NEVER once growled or snapped at ANY family member includng the children)….but i’ve been bit by a shih tzu and also a bichon.
i think this article says it best in regards to the “most dangerous canine breeds” out there….
http://dogpolitics.typepad.com/myweblog/2006/02/top10mostdan.html
By Wade
February 22, 2007 09:48 AM | Link to this
Killing a dog (any type) out of anger at someone else is the act of a coward, and a criminal. How long would it have been until he killed his girlfriend. Would his “character” have been “poor” then?
By bonee
February 22, 2007 09:57 AM | Link to this
Wow, a thug QB and now an animal killer. They say the worst killers start with animals then move to people. Glad to see the Fal-CONS going down the right path in killing terms anyway.
By Tee
February 22, 2007 09:58 AM | Link to this
Will somebody PLEASE tell me what the definition of a “Thug” is? If you’ve NEVER been arrested, can you be called a “thug”? Last I checked your “all american QB Matt Schaub” has an arrest record….then again he is white, so that doesn’t count…lol Let’s hear the excuses about how “young” he was….I didn’t hear those excuses for Marcus Vick and he was only 19 yrs old when he was getting into trouble.
Same thing with Andy Reid’s sons…all of you klansmen had excuses for them, saying that the reason that they are CRIMINALS, is because Andy was busy coaching and wasn’t at home. Probably 60% of the guys in the NFL/NBA’s fathers aren’t at home…..do you say the same about them? Oh yeah, and those guys in the NFL/NBA didn’t go to private schools and live in a gated community!!
By Tom Pridemore
February 22, 2007 09:59 AM | Link to this
Pit bull in the crib named Kilo. Lovers’ spat, dog ends up dead from being smashed in the head. Even with money and fame a thug’s gonna be a thug.
By Pat
February 22, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this
Anybody remember over in Augusta within the last year, a Jack Russell Terrier chewing the foot off of a newborn while Mom slept … that didn’t stay in the news long. Once again, we’re off topic … it’s not about the dog, it’s about the jock and Mr. Blank’s need for a reality check! Money don’t buy good sense … Bless his heart.
By DEEMAC
February 22, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
All of this hate is funny to me. People are jealous over the fact that these guys make this amount of money. Because they don’t hold certain standards that YOU try to place on them. This is sad..
By Bob Glazebrook
February 22, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this
Pit bull in the crib named Kilo. Lovers’ spat, dog ends up dead from being smashed in the head. Even with money and fame a ruffian’s gonna be a ruffian.
Happy now?
A thug, as best as I can tell from the hip hop artists who popularized the term’s use is: A roughneck. A non-thinker, whose main focus is pleasures of the flesh, with little regard to whether those fall within the confines of the law. And yes, Andy Reids sons seem to be thugs.
By Jay
February 22, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
“If you’ve NEVER been arrested, can you be called a “thug”?”
Yes. The same way a rapper can call himself a “gansta” without having been a gang member or a “pimp” without having managed prostitutes.
By GHunt
February 22, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
All of the players in the NFL have baggage of some type or another. MV and JB are no better and no worse than any of their peers. Mr. Blank is correct in his assessment of his team. In our great system of justice, “YOU ARE INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY”.
By Pat
February 22, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
Thank you Harry, Bill Gillespie, Wade and Animal Lover. And, by the way, Webster defines a thug as a “brutal ruffian or assassin.” Don’t think that defines anything that can be even remotely construed as racist. Killing a dog, any dog, any animal, to get back at someone … there’s just no justification. He’s a thug, a coward, or if you prefer, ruffian. Don’t care if he’s white, black, purple or blue.
By Tom
February 22, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this
Jay, just make sure you add Matt Schaub to your “thug” list!! He’s the #1 thug on the team..with his arrest and violent tendencies.
By Clarence Thomas
February 22, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this
Tee, Greg and Amy…you have made a lot of those pale faces turn red with your TRUE statements…I LOVE IT!!
By CJ
February 22, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
Blank, stop defending people like this. If you want your team to be a success, recruit some of the other great talent in America and get rid of these losers. They think they are untouchable… it’s time for a wake-up call!
By ADRIAN
February 22, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this
THE DISGUSTING MANNER IN WHICH THE AJC ALLOWS THESE RACIST COMMENTS TO BE POSTED IS THE REAL ISSUE, OVER AND OVER AGAIN. I FIND IT FUNNY HOW ANY ISSUE WITH ANY BLACK FALCONS PLAYER(MAINLY VICK) IS BLOW WAY OUT OF PROPORTION. THOSE WHO CLASSIFY ANY BLACK ATHLETE AS BEING A THUG WHEN THEIR NAME APPEARS IN ANY TYPE OF ALLEGED CONTROVERSY SHOULD BE BANNED FROM EVER MAKING ANY KNOWLEDGEABLE COMMENT/POST AGAIN. PLEASE, YOU COWARDS NEED TO GET A LIFE. WAIT A MINUTE, NOW THAT I THINK ABOUT, I GUESS THAT’S WHY YOU RACIST IDIOTS CONTINUE TO MAKE THESE ASININE COMMENTS. JUST MOVE ON…
By Corey
February 22, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this
So the cowardly Vick haters dare not touch the Bobby Cox incident? We Southerners may be known for our manners, but I think being hypocrites is sadly a southern trait.
By Earthmom
February 22, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
Right back atcha, Jazzy-Ignoramus. You really DON’T get it, do you? First of all, I’m not a pit bull owner. Second, chihuahuas aren’t usually the type of breed owned by drug dealers looking for protection or people trying to make a statement about their masculinity (or lack thereof). Therefore, they won’t normally be found tied up on short ropes in back yards where they’re more likely to get loose and attack unsupervised children. The kind of people who own VICIOUS pits are NOT responsible pet owners. And just for the record, Cecile and Animal Lover have it right – people are bitten by EVERY breed of dog. Pit bulls don’t have a corner on this market.
I would have no problem having a pit bull around my children. Thousands of decent, intellingent, pet-loving families do. Pits that haven’t been abused, forced to participate in dog fights, or starved, beaten and neglected to make them mean make loving, affectionate, loyal companions, just like other dog breeds. Just because you’ve never been exposed to this type of situation doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
To those people who keep saying that some of us are just jealous because these players make a lot of money – give me a break. It’s YOUR priorities that are misplaced, not ours. We judge people by their actions, not their incomes. And by the way, a reminder for those zeros who keep saying, “It’s just a dog” – if I’m not mistaken, dogs were created by God too. Correct me if I’m wrong on that . . .
By "Pit-Bull" Owner
February 22, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
just so morons like “who cares” have all the facts: There are many “bully” breeds (Bull Mastiffs, American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, British Bull Terrier, etc.) The term “pit bull” was coined by the media and the cowardly sub-humans who breed and train dogs for fighting. Be that as it may, “Pit Bulls” do not “routinely attack children”. In fact, Cocker Spaniels attack more children than any other breed. When raised and treated properly, the breeds often referred to as “pit bulls” are excellent family pets, and you would be hard pressed to find a vet, dog handler, or canine behavior specialist who would disagree. Unfortunately, whenever there is a fatal dog attack, the press usually ID’s the dog as a “pit bull” when in fact, many of these “mixed breed” animals have little or no Pit Bull Terrier or Staffordshire Terrier in their bloodlines. If Jonathan Babineaux did kill this animal (to get back at his girlfriend), he should go to jail. If he killed the animal in self-defense, that’s another story. Let the police and the court determine the facts. As for ignorance of fools like “who cares”… who cares?
By Devon
February 22, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
I am so sick of everything being a race issue. Or money issue. Or class issue. What’s wrong it wrong. Somebody gets mad at their girlfriend and beats her dog to death. WRONG. And that’s a fact whether you like it or not. Deny it if you want and keep on saying we’re upset because “he makes more money than us.” For the love of God, that’s NOT what this is about. Get over it. It’s about cruelty. This guy needs to face the consequences…pure and simple.
By bill gillispee
February 22, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
Number 1 racist, Adrian, no class at all. Thug being, Al Capone, etc. Your not to bright, oh well you must be souther???
By Dee
February 22, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this
It amazes me how Vick continues to be the bad guy. I hope all you dumb Vick haters know that all your hate is what keeps him motivated. I have never seen anything as ridiculous as all the negative comments continuously made about this man. Most of you probably don’t have anything else going on in your life and are jealous of his life. The bottom line is this: Vick will continue to grow in the NFL whether he is in Atlanta or somewhere else. That decision has been made by a higher power and you dummies cannot change it no matter how much you cry and complain about it. Find someone else to hate on or more matter of factly, get a life and stay the hell out of his. Vick, I wish you all the best and look forward to watching you in the upcoming season.
By Ed
February 22, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this
I buy my home material from Lowes and I support the Colts. I’d rather crap barbwire than be thought of as a Falcons fan. And to the idiot who says we’re jealous of their money, you fool they won’t have a dime in ten years. The only gray matter these thugs have is yesterdays underwear. You cannot change peoples perception, so don’t try. We know they’re thugs.
By ruben
February 22, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this
For ByWhoCares: Pit Bulls are animals. They are not animals that deserve to be killed. Maybe YOU should be extinguished and then you will know how dumb your comment was!
By Alex
February 22, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
And in other falcons news…the coward Ashley Ambrose beats up his wife with the help of his brother, while their kids are alseep in a room upstairs.
Anyways, I’m waiting for the spin doctors to turn it into a racial thing…you know, you say something about it, you are a dirty “racist”, you “ignore it” and say “who has never sinned, cast the first stone”…you are not a racist.
Go ahead, I’m waiting…
By King JEC IV
February 22, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
Tom Brady’s ex-girlfriend’s having his baby and they’re not married. Matt Leinart had a baby with a woman, who he’s not married to either. I don’t see you throwing any animosity their way. What about Andy Reid’s sons? They are thugs too! If you’re gonna b*tch and complain about the black players, you better bring the same for the white players when they screw up. You show your racist hypocritical self when you blast black athletes but are surprisingly quiet about the white players. And for my final question- Can you walk on water? Can you turn water into wine? If the answer is no, you need to quit throwing stones in a glass room. Nobody’s perfect. Some of you posters here have screwed up sometime somewhere. The only difference is the size of your mistakes.
By Loafer
February 22, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
The conversation has turned to thugs so I thought I’d weigh in…If you think our Thugs are any different than Cincy your crazy. Same street filth!!
Anybody follow the Big Play Ray and Ashley Ambrose stories lately?? Even the ex-Falcons are following the thug behavior of the current players.
Arthur hasn’t improved anything since he’s taken over except the ticket prices….the game day experience is the same. except we lose more now. What happened to your higher-morale community oriented team Arthur? The only good guy you’ve brought in is Dunn. Yes, he’s black and a good football player who trys to win. Doesn’t quit like Vick and his thug posse.
It’ll be interesting to see our the draft and free agent deals turn out.
I’m still a season ticket holder for some strange reason…guess I like watching a train wreck. Human nature.
By mzkm06
February 22, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this
This is for ByWhoCares. You should be the one to leave this earth and take your bad attitude with you. An animal is a living thing no matter what and just because there has been some bad press about this breed doesn’t mean they are all bad. Pit bulls are just dogs and all dogs can bite even poodles(who by the way have a really bad temperment) If this player could kill a dog with his bare hands then what else could he do… Lock him up with those dog bakers and lose the key.
By The Other Foot
February 22, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this
It is unfortunate that a dog has been killed. Let the law fine the truth. Then let Blank do the right thing at that time. If Babineaux is found guilty. Then let part of his punishment be a massive contribution to prevent animal abuse. Also, have him pay for the burial of animals that were abused to death. As well as, dig the graves and the placing of the dead abused animals into a cemetery.
Again, not all Pit Bulls are bad. Dogs behaviors are a product of the environment and owners.
By King JEC IV
February 22, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
As for Vick’s leadership skills, it’s amazing how some of the posters lack analytical skills. Football is a team game. There are 10 OTHER PEOPLE on the field!! Can you name one Falcons offensive lineman that played in the Pro Bowl since Vick’s arrival? How often do the commentators comment on the excellent blocking skills of the Falcons? Have the Falcons had any receiver go to the Pro Bowl or be called an All-Pro? Um, that’s a no again! Vick can only do so much with what he has to work with. This is why Atlanta’s sports teams suck! You guys don’t know what you’re talking about and neither does your teams’ management. You’re kidding yourself if you think Vick’s the problem. Vick should leave this town, maybe then you would open your eyes and see how sorry the Falcons really are!! Without the black man to kick around, you would see that the line is trash and the WRs suck a!!!**
By Keep It clean
February 22, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this
Please somebody list all the non African-Americans Falcon members that have been in trouble with the law.
By John
February 22, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
Everyone is so quick to throw Mike under the bus. Have you mentioned the charty work perform: Public appearances to schools, Habitat for Humanity projects, Feeding the hungry. If you mention one mention the other also and weigh the two
By Loafer
February 22, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
Hey King JEC….you were doing fine until the “Black Man” comment. Its about winning stupid. The QB is the leader and when you lose he should get the heat.
as far as your post…how did vick throw for a record number of TD’s if he didn’t have an O line protecting him??? it’s about making the right decision at the right time and winning. Our QB doesn’t do any of those right. Not on the field and not in his personal life…..he’s a quitter, let’s move on.
By Who's Your Daddy
February 22, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
“If” he is proven guilty Babineaux needs to go. Anything less than that and Arthur is a hypocrite. And for ByWhoCares; Unfortunetly some Pit Bulls are turned into bad animals by the garbage that “owns” them. You beat any dog and deprive him enough he will become something else. No animal deserves that kind of treatment and they don’t deserve to be murdered.
By That's why
February 22, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
Do you people won’t to know why race keeps coming up in these blogs. Look at Dr, Doom’s comment. We are in the south where a good percentage of white people are raised to think that anybody who is different from them are inferior. Many people of color are raised to not trust the white man. Based on Dr, Doom’s comment, can you really blame a non-white person for thinking everything a white peson says has something to do with race. Put your egos aside and think about that for a second. I know that non-white people are portrayed in a very negative light in the media (some warranted), but that doesn’t mean that everytime a non-white person does something, they are evil or a thug.
By ahhh
February 22, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this
If Babineaux is found guilty, he needs to be kicked out of football totally and serve time. I don’t care whether you like the breed or not, animal cruelty is animal cruelty - this was murder. To bad the other dog can’t testify.
By That's why
February 22, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this
People make mistakes, it’s human. If he killed that dog, then yes he needs to be punished to the fullest extent of the law, but nobody on this blog was there. People, please wait for the judicial system (which is not all that great) to do their job before you pass judgement. Mistakes are made, just look at the women who fingered the wrong man in that rape case.
By blah, blah, blah
February 22, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
King and Dr. Doom are both morons displaying the same old ugly bigotry that needs to go from both sides of the equation. This is about a man who is accused of killing a dog, it’s not about color people - WAKE UP!
By The Truth
February 22, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this
the people on here that think its ok to kill a ptbull are complete idiots…hey Dumb asses not all pitbulls are killers who live to kill children perhaps about 1% of the pitbull population are like that….should we kill all illegal mexicans because a few have killed and raped our woman? Any idiot that thinks its ok to bash in the heaed of a innocent dog should be strung upwith Babineaux and smacked around a few times with a bat
By msteven
February 22, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this
Ok As the proud owner of four purebred german shepherds, I really would like to hear all the facts before I pass judgement. As a dog owner although I dislike pit bulls, why do I have the feeling that he was mad at his girl and took it out on something she loves? I dont know. I dont know anything about Pit bulls so its hard to say. Only thing I can come up with is he was arguing with his girl infront of her a dog..a no no. which may have caused the dog to snarl at him, which he took as a threat. Being already angry with her,hmmmm. Anyway, If he was that damn upset with his girl I would have said, “you need to take your dogs with you because I aint watching them!”. Still, I could never harm a dog, even a Pit bull whom I am not fond of. It wasent the dogs fault him and his lover had a disagreement. We will see, but I bet he just took it out on her dog, the frustertions with her instead of just saying..he I think we need to call it quits, this aint working. Dont harm an animal for something a human is to blame for.
By You Wake Up
February 22, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
When it come to public opinion, things in this world will always be about race, class, and/or religion. This is a very unforturnate certainty. Think about it, in this world, just about anything you can think of, there is some way that one of those three categories is going to be thrown in the equation. It sucks, but it is the truth and as soon as some people realize that, maybe we can save humanity, because at this rate, we don’t have much longer as a human race.
By Sheila
February 22, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
Once again, there is nothing the Falcons players have done compared to stupid az Dany Heatley who intentionally KILLED Dan Snyder and got probabation. AND HE IS STILL PLAYING HOCKEY.
Please give me your season tickets if you don’t want to see the thugs play football because I do!!!
By Loafer
February 22, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
That’s Why….your comment about southerners demonstrates your own ignorance. most everyone in the south, certainly in the ATL, is from up north. We don’t care about race. We care about your actions and relative to this blog…winning football games.
The problem is not with your race…ie. warrick dunn…..it’s with your hip-hop, volent thug natured culture. if you walk around dressed like a thug and talk like a thug then have run ins with the law…guess what…your a thug!!
Also, I can’t belive you’re sticking up for the judicial system.. Does OJ come to mind? How about all the poor blacks wrongly accused….to steal a phrase..if the glove fits you must acquit. That guy beat that dog to death!!
By BUSHWACKER
February 22, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this
D cider, you may laugh tell me what I said is wrong about the great ones getting it done even on days when the team is playing bad, you idiot!!!