Sports Columnists

By Loafer

March 22, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

We’ll live to regret this trade. And right after the season ticket deadline…good one Arthur. On to draft day….let’s get a good OT on the right side to protect our fragile $130M man. Please not another first round receiver!!

By gdawginkalamazoo

March 22, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

If the Falcons really thought Schaub was prime real estate, they wouldn’t be trading him.

They thought the same thing about Brett Favre too. I would probably rank the Falcons right behind Detroit (Matt Millen pathetic record 12-55 and re-signed as GM. Should draft CJ or a young QB but will get a lineman at #2 postion), and the Texans (passed on VY and Reggie Bush) as the most inept franchises in the modern day NFL.

Did I see somewhere they signed him for 8 mil a year? Damn smart guy that Schaub.

By socaldawg

March 22, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

We tend to elevate back up QB’s to savior status? Sorry, but what the heck are you talking about? I can’t think of any situation ever where a backup was seen as anything close to a savior. That’s just non-sense. I mean please could you explain what the heck you are thinking there and maybe give an example. Sorry to pick on one little thing, but i when you start off with a non-sense statement like that, it makes it hard to take you seriously the rest of the way.

By C.S

March 22, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Matt was not that good of a BACKUP. I watched several games he started and he did not do all that good. He did PLAYED well aganist the PATs. MV now understanding he must step-up and do the right thing as a leader. I just wish people in Georgia would stop hating and learn to give him a chance not just hate on him because he is BLACK.

By Birdbrain

March 22, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

This is a great deal for the Falcons. They badly need the best defensive help available in this draft and moving up two spots and getting the high second round pick will help do that.

What did we give up? Sure, maybe he’s the nest Brett Favre, or maybe he’s the next Doug Johnson. Let Houston roll the dice on that one!

By Rodney King

March 22, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

If I said it once, I’ll say it again….

Can’t we all just get along..?

By nunna yo biznezz

March 22, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Good trade..Good move.. Petrino saw enough in the game tapes that Matt does not fit his offense..A vertical game for a strong armed QB(like Vick)is what he is looking for..And,i knew this was coming when Petrino said he was more concerned about the hits Vick took in the pocket than outside.Letting it be known that he saw huge flaws in the O-line..And he was not one who blamed the season on one Mike Vick..

The yards lost in dropped passes were made up by the feet of this QB.. He has been handcuffed the last 3 years by an outcoached OC in Knapp..And,tell Mora Sr. the coach killer on this team was his own son..U have an OC that does not adjust to what the defense is doing when u see your plan is not working,u are doomed..And knapp took Mo jr. down with him..

Mike Vick is an attack weapon..He throws with accuracy when given time..And most days is the fastest player on the field when he plays.. Matt is only as good as he is,Vick will now shine..He is finally playing in an offense that is made and fit for him..And he finally has the coaches who are taking the leash off of him..

Go Falcons..Go Michael Vick!!!!

By Loafer

March 22, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Another draft option is at LB. I like Brookings at outside but not inside. He’s led the team 2 out of the last 3 years in tackles but isn’t a run stopper in the middle. Just don’t get us another Hartwell. Everyone knew he was injury prone. Like is buddy Abraham.

By what?

March 22, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

No QB controversy now? You do realize that the back-up QB (at this time) is one D.J. Shockley, whom is idolized by the immense Bulldog nation. Do you really think that Bulldog fans, who probably comprise 90% of the Georgia Dome on Sundays, won’t be screaming for Shockley to get in once Vick throws his inevitable arrays of interceptions? If anything, the QB controversy just got worse.

By Stephanie a Signle Mom

March 22, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

THAT JUST MEANS WHEN VICK GETS HURT THEN SHOCKLEY WILL STEUP UP AND SHOW OUT AND THEN WE WILL NOT HAVE VICK ANYMORE. THE SAME THING WHEN HE TOOK OVER, BUT SHOCKLEY CAN LEAD AND WILL NOT BE IN THE PRESS, DON’T GET ME WRONG VICK IS A GOOD GUY BUT I JUST THINK HIS TIME IS UP, TOO MUCH ON HIM RIGHT NOW.

By D-Man

March 22, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Jeff this article basically shows your hatred towards Vick and please don’t reply and lie, if you really feel different reread your article from a fan’s view!!!

Shaub is good but he could never be Vick he is his own talent which is also a good one. I wish Shaub the best because we definately got the best of the two.

By Loafer

March 22, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Hey CS…Shut up and talk football. Go to the Political Boards and cry racism. This is about winning football games.

By Moe DeSta DaSame

March 22, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Your column Jeff was right on EVERY point. This team needs help and depth at every position. As you said…”Trading Schaub doesn’t fix the problems, but it certainly creates opportunity.”

An opportunity for Vick to either put up or smoke up…er shut up. Its an opportunity for Rich McKay to get it (the draft) right this time.

It gives the new coach a chance to clean house and avoid the QB contrversy and focus on other issues.

If Vick does not produce this year (which I feel he will) then we’d forget about Matt Schaub, just like we forgot about: Doug Johnson, Kitna, Hebert, and all the other back ups that held the clipboard.

By Double Wing Deep Pass

March 22, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Great deal for the Falcons!

But…let’s make sure we go for a combination of the following with our first three picks: DE, S, OT.

Don’t use the 8 pick on the OT spot, go for DE and then S or OT.

Fill the needs!

By Robert

March 22, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Say what you will. All I’ve ever wanted was back to back winning season’s. Once that is done, then think about SB’s. You have to be constant in winning, then think big. If all the energy was used this way then I’m sure we would have a SB, team in a few years. But lets have a few winning season’s first. It works for me. Then again, a winning season get you into the playoff’s…

By Buddy

March 22, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Well all I can say is Schaub is a smart man and got the money. Petrino did not like something about him for this offense so it was a done deal to get rid of him. I am an avid Football guy and I honestly in the long run think this is going to bit the Falcons bad in the long run. Vick is a glorified running back trying to play the QB position and it will show more now then ever.

Mark this down Schaub will be the other QB to haunt the Falcons as did Brett they thought the same of him and well we know the story on Brett. Once a loser always a loser are the Falcons and it has shown the past couple of years and it will now get even worse.

Falcons stink. Good job Schaub

By DbleD25

March 22, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Schaub couldn’t even beat out the ‘GOD -Awful’ Michael VIck for the QB job. Houston got robbed on so many levels its sad. Carr is far better than Schaub, and they will see that shortly.

By Ted

March 22, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Jeff your kidding right,, Trade Vick ! then you got to the money to build. Its been said now let it be written.

By UMJUSAYIN

March 22, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Thank God for Bobby Petrino! Matt Schaub was just more fuel for the Vick haters. He has NEVER produced. Hell he hasn’t even played since ‘05. This is Mike’s team, like it or not and its time to help him out on both sides of the ball. I agree that he needs to step his game up but I know that he is much better than Schaub. Brett Favre? More like Doug Johnson. Remember him?

By Coach Killer

March 22, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

And as you can see by “Stephanie a single mom’s” comments…

The NEXT QB controversy has begun EXCEPT now you will have Bulldog fans SREAMING for DJ.

And that will be much worse than the whole Schaub/Vick thing because most Bulldog fans don’t understand the pro game as well as they do the college game.

By Tradub1906

March 22, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

I do agree that this is the prefect setup for both QB’s. Matt gets to play @ Houston for good money and Vick doesn’t have thoughts of Matt taking is job. Coach is doing a fine job so far but the real deal has yet to been seen until the season gets up and going. We have several issues that needs to be addressed on both sides of the ball in the upcoming draft and I hope that we can @ least become a playoff contender. Finishing @ .500 or below will mean trouoble for this team. I love how Atlanta has become a football city.

By beachdog

March 22, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

I know jack squat about pro ball but I love DJ Shockley and I think he could be better than Vick.

By Jeff

March 22, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Great Trade for the birds. Shaub was in the square peg in a round hole situation. It absoultley made no sense to gear an offense around a mobile scrambling QB, then have his back up be a traditional drop back passer. Shaub will succeed where ever he goes thats for sure. Just not a good fit for the Falcons.

By D-Man

March 22, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

I think we need a FS with the 1st pick and a DE with the 39th pick and then CB’s and OT’s with our second round picks and there after.

By Bridbrain

March 22, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Double Wing Deep Pass you are right on with what they need (you must be a fellow Season Tix holder). And as far as that first spot, can we all agree that we’d score huge if Arkansas DE Jamaal Anderson is around and we can grab him there?! Jeff, do you agree to?

By bucko

March 22, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Way to go you stupid a— falcons you just don’t get it do you. vick is a coach and team killer. you are making the bed hard so you sleep on it. I’M NOW A N.O. FAN AFTER BEING A FALCON FAN EVERY SINCE THEY HAVE BEEN A TEAM. TRADE AWAY YOUN GOOD TALENT AND PICK UP OLD WASH OUT PRO BOWLERS. YOU WILL NEVER CHANGE

By Patrick Romano AKA "WAR DAMN EAGLE"

March 22, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

C.S. You are an idiot and haven’t a clue about posting anything of substance, IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT BEING A BLACK THING-get over yourself-you werenot enslaved were you! What it is about is not throwing your silly a* coach for years under the bus and having respect for the fans that help pay your salary! It’s also about being smart enough to understand more than 6 plays in the playbook and being able to adapt to the coverages/schemes thwrown at you once they learn the angles and tendencies you expose after 6 yrs. in the league trying to be a running a* QB!

**Loafer is so right, you do need to stay off football blogs with that nonsense asi thas no place. lLse the BLACK thing and understand if your feeble mind can that it’s about RISK TO REWARD and we have not been rewarded in the 6 yrs. MV has been here other than some human highlight films which don’t translate into V’s and championships & he has proven that just b/c you live in SugarLoaf CC and have all that $ it does not buy you class and I don’t think I will be going to MV’S new restaurant in the hood!!! I have a buddy at UPS that delivers to him in SugarLoaf and his neighbors can’t stand him b/c he leaves his yard trashed for days with 24” rims/dubs laying in the yard from his Hummer-how’s that for useless information-It has no place as well on football blog! Just a testament to what type of class Arthur Blank has at his disposal!

Back to football, Schaub may do a Brett Favre or a Doug Johnson but Houston is looking to be a pretty good move financially for him. Only time will tell for the Texans! Maybe a championship b/c I know Schaub knows more than 6 plays and has the intellect to think outside the box!

Peace, Patrick

By who cares

March 22, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Hey CS-Only Doug Williams has taken a team to athe Super Bowl with a Black QB. The problem is-the QB has not matured-he is a thug off the field with the rest of the thugs and he gave the finger to the fans. Real Class act. Just like his Basketbrawl buddies. Vick is not the answer and this season will show it- 8-8 at best.

By bk hawk

March 22, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Only time will tell if this was a good trade but it looks good for both teams at this point. Petrino is the new man on the block, give him a chance to build his on team and see what happens. Go Falcons!

By Dr. Ball

March 22, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

You insecure morons crying racism should grow up and start thinking for yourselves instead of leaning on that race crutch. All anyone is interested in is wins… it don’t matter if Arnold the pig is QB, winning cures all ills. Stop being slaves to your own prejudice or you’re never going to be taken seriously.

By GaVaHokie

March 22, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

Matt Schaub will pass for 300 yards a game and will still lose… just like he did at UVa. Houston gave up way too much for him, what a horribly run franchise. They better hope Adrian Peterson falls in their lap at #10.

By EddieJ

March 22, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Most Bulldog fans do not understand anything but tailgating

By No VA Tech!

March 22, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Please, no more picks from VA Tech!!! All of the Hokie picks are just another sign that Vick has the executive staff in his back pocket. Every single one including D Hall has a mouth bigger than their play on the field. Petrino needs to set a new tone by letting MV know that he is down on the ladder and needs to step it up if he wants to stay with the team. Why coddle the 2nd highest paid player in the NFL when his stats barely fall in the top 10 of his position? Time for Vick to become accountable for what is expected from him. In the meantime….no more lackies from VA Tech!

By dirty byrd

March 22, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

with this trade if gives us more options in this and next yrs draft not bad for 3rd round pick with no game exp. now lets see if coach p and mr mckay make proper moves in draft to bring best players into the frey.GO YOU DIRTY BIRDS!!!!

By 82DAWG

March 22, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

I completely agree with Birdbrain. Great trade for the Falcons. I doubt Schaub is the next Favre, but he certainly could be the next Doug Johnson. Let Houston gamble on that. We can do a lot with a couple of extra 2nd round picks. Although, we need to do a better job using them.

By Repeating History

March 22, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

I’m framing this article and I’ll send it to Schaub when he is selected as MVP in the Superbowl his team wins. Great Timing Blank. A*******Hole

By Big Boy

March 22, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

C.S are you Terrance Moore in disguise?? Quit hiding behind these nick names Terrance.

By CS is Confused

March 22, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

CS- Vick haters don’t get on him for being black, they get on him for poor stats. If Vick would live up to half his hype, the haters would shut up.

By GaVaHokie

March 22, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

I love all the Schaub lovers who have ONLY seen him play since he’s been with the Falcons… those of us who saw him play in college are laughing. Rich McKay has pulled off the biggest con in professional sports, and all you Vick haters will be crawling under rocks when you watch this debacle unfold in Houston… if Brian Finneran had been healthy last year, this would have never been a discussion, just like it won’t be a discussion this year. Vick has three receivers now in Finneran, Crumpler and Horn… a bigger offensive line and three great running backs.

By James Holland

March 22, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

SHOCKLEY will now have his chance to shine; Vick is NOT a Quarterback. He is a FLASH. The real Quarterback is Dusty Bonner, but for now we have SHOCKLEY and he will outshine Vick once given the chance.

By GaVaHokie

March 22, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

And for you Georgia Bulldog fans… DJ Shockley will be the 3rd sting QB… there’s no controversy whatsoever. They’ll bring in a veteran backup. Then you can start complaining about how you want “insert name here” to start instead of Vick.

By Bob

March 22, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

The Falcons trading Schaub was because they are financially totally committed to Vick and can not afford to go with anyone other than Vick. This is not a result of their knowing that Schaub was not the answer. They had offered him over $2 million to be a back up. I think that shows a lot of respect for his abilities.

By Mike

March 22, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

It’s all set-up for Mike Vick. A new receiver who can actually catch, a coach who hopefully will help develop him further, and the elimination of any competition for the starting job. Last year Vick supporters were begging for changes in these areas since none of the offensive woes were Mike’s fault. Now Mike will have the opportunity to succeed or fail on his own. That’s all anyone can ask, to be given an opportunity. As a Falcons fan, I hope Mike succeeds. As a realist I have my doubts.

By GaVaHokie

March 22, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

No Va Tech fans? Only if the Bulldog fans go away.

This city doesn’t deserve Michael Vick… only a bunch of southern “yokuls” would want to get rid of the most electrifying player in the NFL for a 3rd round pocket passer who can’t make anything happen when the game breaksdown.

By BUSHWACKER

March 22, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

STUPID STUPID STUPID..Mike can run fast and throw it a mile…but he IS NOT A QUARTERBACK!!!

It ain’t about Schaub or Vick.

Thank God we still have a REAL QUARTERBACK on the rosetr.

My guess DJ will be staring before the 07 season is over!

By DKM

March 22, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

This was a good trade, but was a total set-up! Petrino was hired with the understanding that Vick is the QB because Blank tells him so. Petrino comes out two days ago with his “I am so impressed with Michael” quote and the trade gets done 24 hours later. I just hope this is not another Brett Favre deal! Vick is a drug user and a playboy and doesn’t work hard at his profession. His throwing mechanics deteriorate when he gets tired(see 0 comebacks when trailing at the end of the third quarter) but nothing was going to change because of his relationship with Blank and our stupidity in buying tickets to fill the Georgia Dome to watch them lose to the good teams. It is amazing how a team, whose spin doctors last year told us that they were close to a Super Bowl run now is telling us that they have a lot of holes to fill on their team and it may be a while for them to be a contender! I am through with this bull, you will see me at high school football games this fall enjoying the same level of football for a lot less money and the hot dogs are only a dollar!

By BUSHWACKER

March 22, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

CS…You are showing your true colors!!

It has nothing to do with Vick being black, he IS NOT A QUARTERBACK!!!

I’ll take DJ right now over Vick or Schaub so enough already with the race card!!!

By Elmo

March 22, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Yes. We do remember Vick’s Posse throwing garbage and racial hatred toward Chandler’s Family. The only racial divide was the posse’s sanctioned hatred toward well meaning and innocent people. Tell the Truth Jeff and it will set you free.

By kingfish

March 22, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

This is a great day for Matt Schaub; he deserves a starting job. He was not a loser at UVA, take another look at the record there and his stats. The loser may well turn out to be the Atlanta Falcons. 2007 will be just like 2006; Petrino or anyone else will not change anything. There will be another QB controversy; the fans will be screaming for DJ after the first couple of games in the season BUT there won’t be the race issue, that will help the situation. Schaub is one fortunate player to get out of this mess. Keep your fingers crossed that Vick can keep his act together for the next several months; that is not a gimme, you know.

By GaVaHokie

March 22, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Wow… now you guys are trying to pump up an undrafted QB in Shockley to start over Michael Vick… that’s just plain laughable.

By Cap

March 22, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

D.J. Shockley better than Michael Vick?!? First it was Matt Schaub, but D.J. SHOCKLEY BETTER THAN MICHAEL VICK?!? I actually like Shockley; watched him play since high school. BUT D.J. SHOCKLEY BETTER THAN MICHAEL VICK?!? What can you say to that without making reference to crack being smoked?

By Mike

March 22, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Laughable? What’s laughable is that Mike Vick still learning his craft after six years in the league. There should not be a QB controversy. Mike should have established his position as a leader and exceeded expectations by now. The fact that there is an issue with Vick shows you there is a problem. I agree with you GaVaHokie - trying to pump up an undrafted QB is plain laughable, but shows the depth of the frustration with Mike Vick.

By Cap

March 22, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Hey GaVaHokie - I think the following comment from this post encapsulates anyone who has the audacity to believe the third-stringer is automatically now better than Vick:

By beachdog

March 22, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

I know jack squat about pro ball but I love DJ Shockley and I think he could be better than Vick.

So the issue was never that anyone really thought Schaub was better than Vick. It is just hatin’ on Vick. So why don’t all the haters pack up and move to Wisconsin since they miss Brett Favre so much.

By D-Man

March 22, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Dr. Ball, I can respect what you say…just don’t say it often and at the wrong time someone might get a different perspective.

I hope Vick does proves the nasayers wrong and have a breakout season this year, and I also hope Shaub has a stellar season as well, I support them both!

By wardamneaglemya$$

March 22, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

MR ROMANO YOU ARE AN EMBARRASSMENT TO ALL OF US TRUE AUBURN TIGERS OUT HERE - YOU PROBABLY COULDNT FIND HALEY CENTER WITH A MAP - SO STOP MISUSING OUR RALLYING CRY AND KEEP YOUR SHALLOW RACIST RANTS TO YOURSELF BECAUSE WE DONT WANT TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH YOUR MONKEY BUTT - IN THE MEANTIME THE SAME PETRINO WHO CRAFTED ONE OF AU’S MOST PROLIFIC OFFENSES IS RUNNING THE SHOW IN FLOWERY BRANCH AND HE IS GOING TO SUCCEED THERE JUST LIKE HE HAS EVERYWHERE ELSE HE HAS BEEN

By Cap

March 22, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

GaVaHokie:

I’m from VA (Portsmouth) and I’ve been trying to beat that dead horse for years. These uncle toms and hillbillies don’t know anything about football and most certainly haven’t watched Schaub play at UVa. If they had they would remember him getting benched for Marques Hagans and they would remember the only quality win he EVER had in college was ONE win against Virginia Tech when the Hokies were on the slide. Schaub put up all of his numbers against the Carolina teams and the D1-AA patsies and got rolled by all other quality teams UVa played. And for all these D.J. Shockley fans, apparently I’ve watched him more than they have been watching him since his days at North Clayton High) because if he couldn’t beat out David Greene outright (who is third-string in Seattle behind Seneca Wallace) then he sure as heck ain’t gonna beat out Vick!

By Phildo

March 22, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Time will tell if trading Schaub is a good deal, but it’ll probably be a wash. If the Falcons had any sense at all, they would trade Vick while some teams may still be dumb enough to think that they are getting a deal. One more year of ineptitude is going to further erode his marketabilty. He’s a great athlete and a lousy QB. His immaturity off the field exemplifies his poor decisions on the field. Bobby, he has already helped to “kill” one coach. Will you be next?

By Monday Morning QB

March 22, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

In a perfect world the Falcons wouldn’t have a maxed out salary cap

Since they couldn’t afford to keep Matt Schaub this was a good deal.

The real bad decision was to lock up your money in a young, enigmatic quarterback for whom — at the time — you could not predict would be a boom or bust.

They have needs at numerous positions. This move will help fill those needs.

The personnel decisions alone were bad enough. Add the financial aspect — massive overpaying of players — and you can argue that the general manager should be shipped out as well or at least make this his last shot to prove he deserves the job.

This team/organization isn’t just one great QB away from a Super Bowl. Green Bay was successful as an organization not only because they recognized Favre’s talent but also in their other personnel decisions. Remember these guys? Mike Holmgren, Sterling Sharpe, Reggie White, Javon Walker, Ahman Green and others? Makes you wonder who’s really steering the ship for the Falcons organization and what level of talent we have in the front office.

By Voice of Reason

March 22, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

Whomever said that we offered Schaub 2 million because we valued him doesn’t understand the system. Schaub did a radio interview in his hometown and all but said that he wasn’t gonna do another 1 year deal with the Falcons after this year. So he was guaranteed to be gone in 08. The 2 million was to guarantee that if someone signed him to an offer sheet, we’d get a 1st round pick. That scares folks off from trying to sign him away for a fraction more than we’d offer. Secondly, why aren’t people evaluating this trade based on Schaub’s performance and attributes and not all the perpetual Mike Vick shortcomings. “This is a bad trade because Vick sucks” isn’t a good argument. Don’t be so ready to lash out on the organization. Does anyone in GA know that the Dolphins who hold the #9 pick are also considering Laron Landry with their pick. Do you want to move up to #8 now? I think this is probably one of the best moves that McKay has made simply because we got a lot for for a player that was probably going to leave us this year. Lastly, for those folks who continue to refer to the Brett Farve situation. Does history normally repeat itself in such magnitude. Has baseball seen another Babe Ruth type trade. Has the NBA seen another Kareem Abdul Jabbar trade. Leave the conjecture off the message boards. Lets support our team!

By MTS

March 22, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Writing from Houston…..Thanks for Schaub. Your system wasn’t geared for his skills but he fits Kubiak’s system perfectly. Did you know that he is rated as a five-star QB? Lot’s of potential there that we will tap.

Hopefully, both teams are better because of the trade

I think we play you at some point next season, we can resume this conversation then.

Unitl then, thanks again.

By James Adams

March 22, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

This article was spot-on. This is what I’ve been waiting on. If in two years, Vick hasn’t produced or improved, it may be time to move on. I say two years because this is his THIRD offensive system in 7 years. As far as Schaub goes, I respect the guy. Len Pasquerelli (sic) did however call him, “this years Rob Johnson”.

By Atl-to-Sea

March 22, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

As a former Atlantan who follows the Falcons very closely, this whole QB thing is very interesting. At the time that Atlanta drafted MV, I was somewhat disappointed because his whole college rep was based on 1 game: VT vs Florida State. He did not have a Vince Young or Matt Leinart type of college career. As a pro he seems to be unable to pick up the nuances of the pro game where everyone on the field is a great athlete. Given a week to prepare, pro coaches like Mike Holmgren, Tony Dungy, Lovie Smith et al, can come up with a plan to shut down any offense, especially an offense as one dimensional as the Falcons. Mike Vick is too limited in his view of the game: when was the last time that he threw to his 3rd option on a passing down? How can all the receivers that have played with Vick be bad except Alge Crumpler? Watch Matt Hasselback, Steve McNair, Tom Brady and of course, Payton Manning, they find open receivers who catch passes all of the time. Vick always seems to be running around either trying to scramble or set up a run. I’ve never seen a successful team with a quarterback who plays the way that Vick does. Just some thoughts from a guy that spent 20 years as a rabid Atlanta fan who still has a soft spot in his heart for the Falcons!

By edward

March 22, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Some idiot in the vent wrote, “And thus begins the demise of the lowly Falcons”. I have to ask…Umm..what makes trading a backup Qb who has never won a game the beginning of a demise? I seem to remember we have a pretty darn good Qb already. With the new coaching staff, Vick finally has a clear direction and more control on field. The one time he audibilized all of last season it resulted in a TD. I don’t know about anyone else, but when I am totally constricted to one thing, my productivity lessens. I think athletes are pretty much the same. The only thing Mora ever opened up was Vicks running plays. We had too many head coach wannabes last year and Mora wouldn’t take control. Petrino will not let anyone take his control of this team away from him. I like Shockley as the backup. He outright won the job as 3rd last year and he did wait 3 years at UGA to start and look what he did then. If Shockley was ever going to fold it would have been his year as the starter at UGA. I think we should draft a QB with the last pick and maybe use him as bait for someone a little better. Maybe throw in a 5th round pick for next year. If not, then I have no problem with these 2 Qb’s now. Atlanta fans are the worst fans in the world sometimes. I am saying that as someone from Valdosta too. I think Vick will really shine with a coach who isn’t going to baby him anymore. Remeber, Petrino said Vick is the quarterback as of today when he got hired. He never said anything past this year. If Vick can’t do anything or gives less than 100% this year, I think Petrino will try to trade him.

By SUPERMAN 34

March 22, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Great trade guys……MV, time to be a leader. All this talk about Shockley possibly being better than or replacing Vick is nonsense. We have alot of holes to fill and picks in the draft are the way to go. We can’t lay or hopes on a guy that’s only shown a flash of goodness in the preseason. Get Vick a O-line and watch this guy do amazing things. Get those wide receivers to catch a few balls and Vick will look like a Pro-Bowl QB…..As fans, get behind the team that we have….

By GHunt

March 22, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

The trade of Matt Schaub for the draft picks was the Brinks’ job of the 21st century. However, I am concerned that Rich Mckay, with his less than stella talent evaluation, may blow this tremendous opportunity to greatly improve the Falcons. Since we have many needs, the best talent available at #8,39 and 44 would be a good way to open the draft.

By Dumbing Down

March 22, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Wow… now we have to keep the “FRANCHISE KILLA” and live and die with him. KILLA will scramble, get hurt and then what? Vick now is in the restaurant business…KILLA needs to be studying the plays instad of the menus! Who is making these idiotic decisions? Rankin Smith?

By Cap

March 22, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Mike, who says that Vick hasn’t learned his craft after six years? The departed coaching regime conceded that Vick ALWAYS graded out well in practice. When Steve Young was Vick’s age, he had overwhelmingly worse career numbers than Vick’s now, which actually are pretty good. But funny how Young left Tampa Bay and went to a winning organization and became a Hall of Fame QB. So it is not Vick, it is Atlanta, an organization that has NEVER posted back-to-back winning seasons that is the problem. So the Falcons finally did the right thing. Instead of getting rid of Vick to watch him win championships elsewhere while Matt Schaub became the next Vinny Testeverde or Craig Erickson, they got rid of Schaub for much more than he is worth to build an actual team around a QB that has not even reached his prime (I still don’t understand the “lack of sufficient progress after six years” argument that the haters keep trotting out. Vick lead the team to an NFC Championship game until the team ultimately collapsed because all the high round picks the Falcons drafted in the three years prior to Vick were all busts while it is usually these players that make up the young core of other franchises).

By King JEC IV

March 22, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Vick needs an offensive line and better receivers. Obviously Petrino can see that Vick has no help. I’m not sure what the rest of you so-called Falcons fans are watching. How many Falcons’ offensive linemen have been to the Pro Bowl lately? ZERO!!! Petrino sees the Falcons’ number 1 problem. If you’re such avid football fans, why can’t you see that?? It doesn’t matter who plays QB when the line plays like a Spanish matador against opposing defensive lines. Here’s a helpful hitn for the OL: You’re supposed to block him, not let him run right by ya!!! With that being said, just admit you don’t like him personally and you just want him gone. As for the glorified RB trying to play QB, he wouldn’t be running so much if you had a line!!! Fix the line, then comment on Vick’s ability.

By Jerome

March 22, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

*By socaldawg

March 22, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

We tend to elevate back up QB’s to savior status? Sorry, but what the heck are you talking about? I can’t think of any situation ever where a backup was seen as anything close to a savior. That’s just non-sense. I mean please could you explain what the heck you are thinking there and maybe give an example. Sorry to pick on one little thing, but i when you start off with a non-sense statement like that, it makes it hard to take you seriously the rest of the way.*

In response to this idiot, do you not remember how much everyone thought of Doug Johnson. He turned out to be a giant dud. I remember hearing for at least a year that DJ could be a starter for a bunch of NFL teams and when he got his chance his choked. I love proving people wrong. Do some research before you respond next time dumba**.

By In the round 1980

March 22, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Matt Schaub is the real winner in this case because the man gets a chance to prove himself and some damn good money to boot. The “Birds” will screw it all up anyway, as they have since I’ve been watching them, and given history, Authur Blank will morf into Rankin Smith before our very eyes. The only permanent thing about the Falcons are their fans. Thank whatever God you choose for the University of Georgia and the Georgia Institute of Technology for without them there would be no football in this state worth the price of the ticket.

By curtfitz

March 22, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

VICK, 130 MILLION, 6 YEARS EXPERIENCE!!! NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME!!!

SCHUAB, 48 MILLION, NO PLAYOFFS, 2 GAMES EXPERIENCE!!! GOOD LUCK MATT!!!

The look on all you redneck vick haterS faces, “PRICELESS!!!”

By O. Verit

March 22, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

The posts on this blog point out one interesting thing: isn’t the QB controversy involving Schaub (a serviceable player who has only played in two games) perhaps the greatest indictment of Vick? How many of you even know who Peyton Manning’s or Tom Brady’s backup is (well, some of you probably do, but most of us don’t have a clue). Yet everyone (and not just Atlanta fans) knows who Vick’s backup is, and now the third string QB (DJ). The fact that people can even suggest that Shock can take over from Vick shows just how precarious his position is. I believe Vick has really just this season to prove he can mature into a top-tier QB…if he shows the immaturity and poor decision-making on the field he showed last season, Petrino will cut him, cap or no cap. I’d like to see MV prove me wrong, but I sincerely doubt it…it’s almost as if he’s daring the team to cut him. I’ll miss blogging about MV!

By lil_charles01

March 22, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Great trade!!!! Will everybody please realize that we don’t have to fill every need via the draft. So what we loose a couple of picks to get CJ. We will only loose the picks we got from Houston, We can still fill the needs of the team via free agents. They didn’t build rome in a day. We need another playmaker. Teams will double team crumpler and CJ and that would prevent teams from staking 7 guys on the line. People don’t forget, one of the reasons why vick wasn’t so successful is because teams practiced specifically against vick scrambling. They put their fastest guys in at qb during practice to simulate Vick scrambling. It’s hard playing a team that know your next move.

Sign a back veteran qb and let Shockley get in there and throw some deep passes with Fred Gibson like they did a UGA

Go Dawgs and Falcons!!!!!!!!!

By Weagle

March 22, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Superman, now it is time to take advantage of draft picks and with the amount of picks we have, we should be able to find an OT to protect Vick, as well as a DE to replace Kerney. As every season, I am excited and have hopes that this is the year we make a run, and as much as we all like to speculate and critisize our off-season moves, it ultimatly comes down to Sundays and no ones knows what the outcome will be.

By Cap

March 22, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Voice of reason, thanks for being “the voice of reason”. ATL-to-sea: you seem like a nice enough person and I sincerely feel bad for you because you’ve suffered with the Falcons for twenty years, but I must say your comments are exceedingly uninformed. For example:

“At the time that Atlanta drafted MV, I was somewhat disappointed because his whole college rep was based on 1 game: VT vs Florida State. He did not have a Vince Young or Matt Leinart type of college career.”

UM, THAT IS BECAUSE VINCE YOUNG AND MATT LEINART WERE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL; THEY HADN’T “HAPPENED” YET. VICK CAN’T SEE THE FUTURE. BUT LEADING YOUR COLLEGE TEAM TO THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME AS A REDSHIRT FRESHMEN WITH MEDIOCRE TALENT ISN’T A BAD THING.

“Given a week to prepare, pro coaches like Mike Holmgren, Tony Dungy, Lovie Smith et al, can come up with a plan to shut down any offense, especially an offense as one dimensional as the Falcons.”

THAT IS WHY THEY (ALONG WITH BILL COWHER) HAVE COACHED THE LAST FOUR TEAMS TO APPEAR IN THE SUPER BOWL. NO LESS THAN 27 STARTING QBS WOULD LOVE TO PLAY FOR THOSE TEAMS (I THINK TOM BRADY WILL ALSO STAND PAT).

“when was the last time that he threw to his 3rd option on a passing down?”

I THINK THE LAST TIME WAS WHEN VICK WASN’T RUNNING FOR HIS LIFE OR BEING DRIVEN INTO THE TURF BECAUSE TODD WEINER’S MAN CAME OFF THE BLOCK CLEAN AS A WHISTLE.

“How can all the receivers that have played with Vick be bad except Alge Crumpler?”

ASK TRENT DILFER AND SHAUN KING. RICK MCKAY DRAFTED THEIR RECEIVERS TOO. JACQUEZ GREEN AND REIDEL ANTHONY DIDN’T EXACTLY INSPIRE FEAR IN THE HEARTS OF DBS. AND UNBELIEVABLY, THE FALCONS RECEIVING CORPS WAS ACTUALLY WORSE THAN THEY WERE.

I’ve never seen a successful team with a quarterback who plays the way that Vick does.

THAT IS BECAUSE NO QB HAS EVER PLAYED THE WAY VICK DOES. BUT DON’T FORGET THE FALCONS MADE A COUPLE OF PLAYOFF RUNS WITH VICK. HOWEVER, VICK HAS BEEN ONLY ABLE TO MAKE A REALLY BAD TEAM MEDIOCRE. IF THE FALCONS WANT ANYMORE MILEAGE OUT OF VICK THEY ARE GOING TO HAVE TO UPGRADE THE TALENT. THAT IS WHY YOU TRADE YOUR LITTLE-USED BACKUP FOR MORE (AND BETTER) DRAFT PICKS.

IF YOU PARTICIPATE ON THE BLOG PLEASE WATCH SOME OF THE FOOTBALL YOU ARE CRITICIZING FIRST.

By John

March 22, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

C.S. wrote:

“I just wish people in Georgia would stop hating and learn to give him a chance not just hate on him because he is BLACK.”

Hey clown, the majority of the starting Falcons are black, as is the case in the entire NFL. A lot of people have problems with Vick because, simply put, he is not a star NFL QB and never will be. He’s mostly fluff and no stuff. When will your type ever tire of making lame excuses based on race?

By NASDAQ

March 22, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

**VICK IS OUR QB, SHAUB IS NOT! I’M what you call a true falcons fan, not like you fair weather idiots that post hateful messages to my teams QB. I don’t care if my QB is black, white, chinese, indian, or any other race as long as he gives 100% and thats what Vick does (just ask his teammates). Cut the negativity, get your idiot selves in the stands and cheer for my beloved birds. Go Falcons, just Go!

By Tiffany

March 22, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

The Falcons created opportunities with this trade. They can keep the draft picks and improve the team with a couple of really great guys, or they can trade those picks to Detroit or Cleveland to get Calvin. No matter what they do, they control the draft board for the next month. Smart move McKay!

By Luv 2 Hate Me

March 22, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I can’t wait until we win the division this year and all you ” This deal is going to bite the falcons” is going to bite ya’ll in the a$$. Just be man enough to admit it come Dec 07.

By vickisick

March 22, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

obviously it was wise to trade a guy who would walk next season with no compensation. ATL couldn’t afford to keep schaub after this season, so getting two 2nd round picks will help petrino get two more bodies to compete for starting jobs. 2nd round picks are the best value because they won’t get a huge contract, but still be a solid player.

By GaVaHokie

March 22, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Atl-at-Sea… Vick was phenomenal in college. It wasn’t just the National Championship Game with Florida State, which by the way, he almost won single-handedly. We had several players injured such as Ken Oxendine (former Falcon) and Andre Davis, our star receiver. And lets look at the game that got them there, the win over West Virginia (Bulger was their QB at the time). Vicks long scramble to put Shane Graham in Field Goal range was what got them to the National Championship.

Vick displayed the same talents in his first year with the Falcons, if you’ll recall his single-handed winning touchdown against the Vikings in the playoffs. He’s the only player I know that can single-handedly take over a football game, I can’t even say the same for Tomlinson or Bush… if you allow him to be in that situation, which he hasn’t been since Alex Gibbs came on board. Stop putting him in conventional situations and let him do his thing… Frank Beamer knew how to do it, lets see if Petrino knows how.

By Lord Doom

March 22, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Chris,

I know exactlly what will happen if I say that on the street: You will get lynched!!

By Billy Joe Tolliver

March 22, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I knew Bobby Hebert. You, Matt Schaub are no Bobby Hebert.

And he’s no Charles Schwaub, either, but that fat contract will make them best friends.

By NASDAQ

March 22, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

VICK IS OUR QB, SHAUB IS NOT! I’M what you call a true falcons fan, not like you fair weather idiots that post hateful messages to my teams QB. I don’t care if my QB is black, white, chinese, indian, or any other race as long as he gives 100% and thats what Vick does (just ask his teammates). Cut the negativity, get your idiot selves in the stands and cheer for my beloved birds. Go Falcons, just Go!

By Ryan Leaf

March 22, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Schaub’s value as a solid backup was outweighed by the crap his presence stirred up among the fan base.

By the way, I can be had. Cheap. I’ve learned my lesson.

By Magneto

March 22, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Vick actually went before the media and with a straight face said that he used his water bottle to carry his jewelry. You gotta love this animal.

By GT Guy

March 22, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Kearny, now Schaub? 6 years of Mike Vick and what do we have to show? Nothing. This time next year it will still be nothing with the exception of a few more MV off the field escapades. Glad I finally came to my senses and quit financially supporting this organization. I dumped my season tickets last year and with every bone head move this group continues to make, the smarter they make me look.

By north

March 22, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Traded Schaub away to keep a known liar, and self absorbed jackass at qb with perhaps the most overrated backup qb in football now backing him up. yeah the falcons have quality management.(that would be sarcasm to you vick a** kissers)

By ha ha

March 22, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Hey Magneto, its Mary Jane, do you know how many people do that kind of stuff, while you are on here calling him an animal, where are your kids, ha ha hope they get caught, I’LL CALL THEM AN ANIMAL TOO!!! OH AND WAIT TILL THEY GO TO COLLEGE, LOL DOESN’T MATTER WHERE BABY AND I WONDER WHO ARE THE REAL POP HEADS LOL, YOU PEOPLE JUST CALL NAMES FREQUENTLY, SO STUPID!

By Ignatius

March 22, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

You ignorant racists make me see why Yankees laugh at us. You are in the heart os SEC country, you should all know it’s all about the football. Life begins in August and goes into hibernation in February. It ain’t color, it ain’t heritage, it’s skill. Go VOLS!!! Go DAWGS!!! Go everybody but Gators!!!! Go FALCONS!!!!

By Pago Pago

March 22, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Better order your Super Bowl tkts now.

By Matt Schaub

March 22, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Now Mr. North, how can you say I am overrated, if anything I feel like I am underated, lol but i think that I will be fine in Houston soakin up the #1 spot, I feel so Luda Like but I will miss Atlanta. I do come back for a game against you guys, please don’t kill me too bad with this O-line we got over here, and lastly how could you even mentioned me in an underated qb, I haven’t proven myself yet but in practice I don’t know guy if I had my choice the most underated backup qb would be JEFF GARCIA, I gotta prove myself first fellow but I appreciate your hating of one of my closest friends in Mike Vick, an outstanding athlete but I am doing this for me Mr. North not any of you Mike Vick haters and I am personally glad to get out of Atlanta cause who knows what would’ve happen, MV7 Goes down in pre season and I complete the season for us at 4 - 12, woah, just glad to get out of Atlanta, maybe you all would’ve chumped me next, fan dedtication here sucks, I’m going where the record says 5 - 11 but they still fill up the stands and stay dedicated, but see you in Sept, maybe October, oh what the hell see you soon and don’t forget to wash my En u t’s for me!

By Cuz

March 22, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

The way Vick moves around, I think it is inevitable that he gets hurt. He plays at such a high speed. If he does go down, DJ should be capable of running the team. As a Dawg fan, I still do not think that DJ takes it away from the franchise. Only if the franchise gets injured.

By Chuck

March 22, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

It’s obvious the best defensive player is Landry…if the Falcons don’t pick the defensive back from LSU (Landry) it will come back to haunt them just like not picking KC’s 8-time all pro Tight End (Gonzalez) that we passed on for some obscure player that I can’t even remember at this point. Come on Petrino….prove me wrong and pick Landry.

By kvegas

March 22, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

I am a transplant from NY but been a Falcons season ticket holder for past 6 years and you have to chuckle that folks think Matt was the 2nd coming of Brett Farve or Bart Starr? please the game vs New England the Patriots defense wasn’t clicking on all fronts early in the season and no denying folks were screaming how great it was that then no#2 QB Doug Johnson was getting a shot? I remember that well.lol Hey Carr was once consdier a mobile QB too but try getting sack 241 times? lol Falcons got the better of this deal point blank!

By BUSHWACKER

March 22, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget DJ was back up to the WINNINGEST QB IN COLLEGE FOOTBALL HISTORY!!!!

That does not mean DJ could not have started for vistually every other college in the country if had left.

Loyalty is something Vick knows nothing about!

By ha ha

March 22, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

It’s me magneto, don’t do quick pumpers like ya boy Matt Schaub and I’m DUMB, HA you take what I say and think with your penis so I am assuming that is where your football brain is, hope you don’t ever QB, so lame, so look, I’ma let you know like this, yes I am a female Mary Jane, probably seen more falcons games than you seen BOOTY, so i’ll try and educate you here okay, listening sweetie, alright just go and buy your boy Matt Schaub a couple of pads cause he’s going to need em in Houston and you should go too, its a duche bag waiting for you!

By ED FR0M ELLIJAY

March 22, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

STUPID TRADE. WHY NOT TRADE VICK!!!!!!!!!! THE ONLY GOOD THING NOW IS THAT SHOCKLEY WILL START SOON AFTER HERPES, DOPE HEAD VICK FALTERS AGAIN!!!

By Schaub is a loser!!!!!

March 22, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Yea Schaub is gone Yea Schaub is gone U necks think that Vick is a drug user,and that he is running back who plays QB..No!!!He is a QB who happens to be the best runner on the field every game he is in.. I guess u forgot how Schaub and his white thug buddies beat up a guy outside a bar..And how Pat Kerney paid off someone to say he was not with the group of men whom,came into his house and raped a young female.. If Kerney had nothing to do with it,why is it that no one questions the people he hangs around??Police found no evidence that drugs were in Vicks bottle and Mr.Schultz,and u find no reason to not believe the female that said Kerney had no part in the rape..LMAO…U are funny