AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2007 > July > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USReason for optimism over Falcons
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
Conventional wisdom holds that the Falcons have had a debilitating offseason. From the water bottle in Miami to a dead dog named Kilo to the dogfighting investigation in Virginia, these have surely been eventful months. But will such “events” automatically make for a woeful autumn? Not necessarily. And here, since you asked, are the reasons why:
1. They have a better coach and a better plan. The last staff seemed a cobbled-together contraption, what with Greg Knapp and his West Coast offense, and with Alex Gibbs and his zone blocking, and with nobody who seemed to know how to optimize Michael Vick. The new man relishes the thought of coaching this quarterback. “That’s why we’re here,” Bobby Petrino has said, and he isn’t a guy who’ll let his coordinators hash things out. He knows what he wants and will settle for no less. You won’t be able to say of his team what became painfully apparent about Jim Mora’s: that it had no signature.
2. They had a bountiful draft. The Falcons helped themselves almost everywhere, from the defensive front (Jamaal Anderson and Trey Lewis, Rounds 1 and 6) to the offensive line (Justin Blalock and Doug Datish, Rounds 2 and 6) to the secondary (Chris Houston and David Irons, Rounds 2 and 6) to tight end (Martrez Milner, Round 4) to wide receiver (Laurent Robinson, Round 3) to linebacker (Stephen Nicholas, Round 4). That’s a lot of handy new pieces for this clever new staff to deploy.
3. Grady Jackson sued but didn’t leave. He’s a big man, literally and figuratively, for the Falcons. With Patrick Kerney gone and Rod Coleman hurt and Jonathan Babineaux facing an animal-abuse charge — and with Anderson being a rookie and with John Abraham being his brittle self — the D-line must have an anchor. With the lawsuit settled, Jackson still provides one.
4. Running back Jerious Norwood seems ready for his close-up. He’s one guy Petrino keeps mentioning, and he figures to get nearly as many touches as Warrick Dunn this season. More, if Norwood proves he can catch the ball. And Petrino’s quarterbacks are noted for utilizing every receiver.
5. Vick hasn’t been indicted and/or suspended — yet. If he’s indicted, he’ll be suspended. (Estimates vary, but four games is the most popular guess.) But absolutely nobody knows whether an indictment, which once seemed imminent, will be issued at all. If none is, will Roger Goodell still find cause to sanction Vick? If so, on what grounds? Having the wrong cousin?
6. Even if Vick is suspended, the Falcons have had a summer to prepare for his absence. This isn’t to say Petrino wants to start the season with Joey Harrington as his quarterback. (Would the Falcons have traded Matt Schaub if they had any idea this dogfighting thing was out there? Probably not.) But Petrino is smart enough to have formed a contingency plan by now, and Harrington, while no long-term answer, has at least been an NFL starting quarterback. He could win a game or two.
7. As unsavory as the off-the-field stuff has been, Vick seems to have rededicated himself to football. He has canceled public appearances — and he infamously skipped the breakfast with members of Congress — but the Falcons insist the quarterback has been an attentive student of the new system. And that’s the best news of a news-heavy offseason because, to put it bluntly, Vick hasn’t seemed as detail-oriented since he signed that $130 million contract in December 2004. He seems to believe this is the biggest year of his career, and it is.
Permalink | Comments (121) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons / NFL, Mark Bradley
Comments
By Ryder
July 5, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this
Before everyone else gets in here with their “kill Vick” posts, I’d just like to go on record as saying I like the direction that this team is going headed into the season. Even though there are a lot of “ifs” from QB to the secondary to answer, I believe Atlanta will have it all together before the first game against Minnesota, barring anymore injuries or indictments.
Vick has finally understood the mistakes he has made and their possible consequences. Perhaps that is why he is keeping a low profile, and that’s good. He needs to finally focus on football only. I like the draft and how this team has possibly 3 rookies in Houston, Anderson and Blalock who can step in right away and contribute.
In addition to Petrino, Joe Horn will provide much needed attitude in these soft-as-charmin receivers. Even if he only plays 10 games his presence and leadership is something Atlanta did not have in the Mora era.
Petrino has surprised me with his authoritative ways, I didn’t know he had it in him. That said, I think we’ll see the righting of the ship this year in Atlanta. Good times to be had by all!
By walter elrod
July 5, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this
I will not and everyone I have talked to will not support this team with someone that thinks its ok to watch or participate in animal cruelty as the leader of this team.It makes me sick to my stomach.He is just as guilty as O.J. and will probably get the same result . Hello Carolina Panthers
By Just the facts ma'am
July 5, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this
Walter,
STFU with that old news already. If there was hard evidence there would be hard charges. OJ was charged remember?
Don’t come back until you have something new to say, and can add to the discussion. In the corner with you.
By walter elrod
July 5, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this
O. J. was charged, you are correct,but 12 IDIOTS let him walk,we are talking about Vick,decent people that are falcon fans will not pull for this team until Vick is no longer on it. Plain and Simple
By Pro-tonix
July 6, 2007 7:35 AM | Link to this
Walter, don’t make a Passion Play out of football. Just watch it and enjoy and let the law take care of the rest.
By larry w.
July 6, 2007 8:02 AM | Link to this
I couldn’t agree more Mark! As bad as Mora and company were, the team still did not have a losing season under them. With a coaching staff in place that has a clue, I think this team is ready to become consistant winners. I also think the team can win a couple of games with Harrington at QB. I’m pretty sure that Harrington has gotten more reps with the first unit than he would normally have gotten. This can only help the overall good of the team. Consistency is the key with this team, and I think Petrino definitely will bring that!
By Adios Ron
July 6, 2007 8:07 AM | Link to this
Of course Vick is guilty. An innocent person would have sued ESPN for libel long ago. There is no indictment yet because the feds (not the incompetent pandering local d.a.) are taking their time meticulously building a case. Probably hoping to ‘turn’ Vick’s thug-cousin against him. mindless Vick loyalists need to prepare themselves when he is cut, which Blank must do to regain any respect in league circles. SI just named him one of the worst owners.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this
After 4 years on the waiting list, and with a dad and grandfather who have had Falcons tickets since day 1 (1966), my name has come up! I’ve waited 4 years, and now I don’t even know if I want season tickets. Vick has really put me off. Do I support my team no matter who is the QB, or do I withdraw my support for this SOB who can’t get things right and thinks fighting dogs is OK?
Damn. Tough choice. Already got rid of both of my Vick jerseys. Is that enough?
By larry w.
July 6, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this
I stand corrected. The team was 7-9 last year, but that was still pretty good under the circumstances.
Walter…”decent people” will root for this team. Please take your political agenda elsewhere. Falcons fans are geared up for this coming season!
By Connie Lingous
July 6, 2007 8:17 AM | Link to this
Let me get this straight, Bradley. Your top two reasons for optimism are a coach who is “better” (in spite of never having been an NFL head coach) than his predecessor (how can you tell?), and the fact that the Falcons participated in the draft? Are you seriously citing 6th round draft choices as “handy” pieces? Or 3rd round picks, for that matter? We are going to have rookies starting all over our defense, which wasn’t very good to begin with.
And somehow you got 3 out of your seven positives to be about Vick and his negatives. And the final two big positives are apparently that guys who were here before are still here (Jackson and Norwood).
Wow.
By the way, I liked your hair better when it was poofy. Any chance you’ll change it back?
By Chris
July 6, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this
Hey Larry, Falcons were 7-9 last year. I would say that pretty much qualifies as a losing season.
By Hasavior
July 6, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this
Petrino brings a offensive scheme with interchangeable parts thru the running and passing plays. Those plays are drafts from the NFL used in a college setting. The offensive formatting will changes due to positioning on the scrimmage line.
This type of scheme will deter defending teams from having 8 or 9 in the box. Vick’s movement will compliment the game as a last option. You’ll see lots of passes to the flats to the full back, Norwood, and Dunn.
In fact, there were a lot of passes to Dunn in the flats, but not part of a play, Vick would scramble and there was Dunn.
Everyone sees the potential, yet we focus on negatives and human beings personal issues.
By destin
July 6, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this
Elrod — go cry to mommy and wet your bed — we don’t want pussys like you rooting for the Falcons anyway! Also, why don’t you move to a country where you’re guilty until proven innocent.
Anyhow, the top 5 things that need to go our way for us to be serious contenders:
Vick - with Petrino’s system and a new focus this might be a break-out year. If it goes the other way, it will be time to cut and run.
Wideouts - At least one of the two #1 picks (Jenkins,White) needs to step-up and show they are a true frontline receiver. Horn needs to stay healthy. Robinson could develope into a bigtime threat with his speed and hands.
Secondary - JWilliams, hopefully, will become the quality FS many project him to be and Houston shows he can ankor the other corner.
MLB - A lot of people are down on Brooking, but I think he will have a very solid year
DL - This could turn out very, very good or things could turn to sh**. Abe must stay healthy, Anderson needs to turn out the way we expect, and at UT Coleman needs to heal quickly and Babs needs to avoid being suspended.
By ladbaby
July 6, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this
This is going to be a better season for the Falcons. Stronger on both sides of the ball. Bradley is not usually this easy to agree with,something is got to be going on.
By GaBreed
July 6, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this
Blah Blah Blah, lynch mob. The problem I have with your constant whining and threats of not rooting for the Falcons because Vick hasn’t been kicked off, is because you fail to jump on your soapbox when there are issues of human atrocities around this world that far outweigh this accusation. Pick up the banner for genocide in Africa, sex slaves in SE Asia, homelessness anywhere, etc. In the meantime, I will spend my fall cheering my home team Atlanta Falcons back to the playoffs, while I continue to ponder solutions to these human issues. Don’t loose the point, I love animals too. But I don’t hear you picketting the animal shelters that euthanize daily or the hunters picking off white tails. So prioritize your values accordingly. GO FALCONS
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
This post was starting out great then comes the post from Chris and Walter Elrod. As a Falcon fan I will cheer for my team even when some of our players make mistakes nobody is perfect. Now we all know why the two of you make the comments toward Vick as you do but to avoid the same ole talk I will refrain from speaking on that. The one thing I would like to tell all you Vick haters is pay attention to Coach Petrino and his plan he realizes what he has in Vick and how to use him and all the weapons on offense. So don’t waste your time with your hidden agendas it is getting very close to kick off so get back on board and Support the team.
By The Falcons the team
July 6, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
we will win. Both side of the ball will attack this year. The sports writers the (Falcons haters)AJC Sports ESPN ,FOX SPORT, SI, all hate this team. That what will make it so sweet when we win and we will win. 12-4 seeing is believing . This is our year. I hear Houston can’t sell any tickets. They have there new quarter back why don’t they believe in him? AJC Sport and all the haters should buy tickets to see him play in Houston because they say we traded the the real QB. It’s seem Houston fans don’t believe you haters!
By Neverleftthebandwagon
July 6, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this
From reading these posts year in and year out, I’m going to be laughing up a storm when the Falcons finish 13-3 and are in the playoffs. Then I’ll bet no one will be talking about dog fights. People will have nothing but good things to say about Vick. Remember this and watch the people jump on the Vick bandwagon.
By masivatack
July 6, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
Whats funny is, the same people who are coming on here and talking crap about the team because Vick is still on it, will still be cheering for them this fall. Don’t be hypocrites. You really think that you are going to stop watching your local team play because one player is suspected of a crime. Gimme a break. And Dude, If you really are torn about buying your season tickets. Sell ‘em to someone who isn’t gonna b*** and moan while sitting in them. The only reason this is such a big deal, is because he is such a high-profile player that the media would love to pounce on. And I am not a lawyer, but seems to me that a libel suit wouldn’t be in order until the initial investigation is over (See Richard Jewell). I hope, but seriously doubt, the media will show that same fervor when apologizing to vick for all the hundreds of articles bashing him (That is, IF he isn’t charged).
By larry w.
July 6, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this
I saw the Japanese guy play in NFLE. He does not have what you might call “blazing speed” but he does change direction very well, does a great job of setting up his blocks, and can cut on a dime. Plus he is also a pretty reliable receiver. He just might give Rossum a run for his money.
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this
Finally someone speaks the truth, sort of. You said they probably would not have traded Schaub had they known about the dog fighting. They did not know about that, but they did know about all the opther crap,and it was just a matter of time before something popped up, that’s why RICH MCKAY should be FIRED for trading Schaub.
PS, I got $1000 that says something else will happen before the season starts becuase just like Crapman or Pacman, idiots cannot stya out of trouble!!!
But I blame where we are on BLANK, he should admit he should have never fires Dan Reeves.
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
I don’t care if they win the super bowl with Vick, I have lost all respect for VICK,MCKAY AND BLANK and I will not be watching as long as that punk is the QB.
But we all know the Falcons will not win the super bowl with Vick, not becuase he is a thug and low life, but because he is TOO STUPID to play QB in the NFL!!!
By mountain jim
July 6, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Hey good riddance to you as a fan, Bushwacker - McKay and Blank really care about your ‘respect’, and if Dan Reeves had drafted and GM’ed as good as he coached there would have been no need to fire him.
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
Bushwacker there is no room here for your Confederate mentality. Who cares if you watch the game or not the season will still take place with you are without you. So just go ahead and spend your fall weekends at your hatred rallies. Let’s see who have more fun. Furthermore, he can’t be to stupid with a 100 million in the bank. Something about you people and your hate for a Black man with money who does not fit your description as a good &&(&%.
By bobby
July 6, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
You know bobby Cox did not receive this much hate for beating his wife. I guess many of the Vick haters treasure their dogs over their wife. I have nothing against animal rights activist as I like animals also, but lets be fare. How about protesting horse racing and how they shoot the horses up so they can race even though the horse may have a broken hip - see the episode of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. Maybe because that is the “Gentlemans Sport”, and maybe because it is the sport of the rich, famous and “not of color”. They can not even race those horses over seas because they are gassed up so much. Don’t nit-pic. If you go after Vick, go after all with the same fury!
By bobby
July 6, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
Any White person that calls Vick a “THUG” is a “Racist”! A Thug is a person that has assaulted someone, look it up the definition! You white people only call blacks thugs but when a white rock star crashes hotel rooms and gets in fights “Tommy Lee”, that word is never attached to their name. How about some of the actors “Tom Sizemore” who always has assault charges? He never gets called a Thug! If I were goimng in an alley and needed a “Thug” for help, I would not call Mike Vick, I would call one of those other “white” guys!
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this
I see on the front page of the ajc the feds are at vicks house again looking for dogs,have fun in jail vick
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
To Vick believer, I know you thing I am a honky racist, but what do you say when I tell you I want to see DJ as the QB, HUH???
oh by the way, the feds are at the property looking for dead dogs today,
And one other thing I don’t give a damn what you think about me!!!
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this
hey bobby, I do treasure my dog more than my wife,dont every good ole boy? and vick is a thug,white guys are not thugs ,there as&%*holes, jerks, not thugs, I will spend my time this fall watching nascar and the DAWGS, screw the fal coons and vick
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this
Bushwacker as I mention earlier Vick does not fit your good ole boy type. So for you to say you would like to see any other QB that is unproven further proves my point about you. By the way Aurthur Blank and Vick can care less about what you think. Face it you are a undercover racist and the topic of Vick brings it out of you and all of the other country rednecks. Face it man its 2007 and we are here so deal with us are be like hotrod and go watch NASCAR where I am sure you will fit in.
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this
hey vickbeliver,, you think just because he make a lot of money he cant be stupid??? are you kidding me??? in 5 years he will be broke lost it all ,dont know where it went,my good friends at ESPN will do a show on it called why is vick broke living under a bridge in norfolk va, cant wait to see that and get on here and see what you got to say to defend him then. you dont get it,I dont care what race he is a fool is a fool, I call them both ways. point out some white guy that did something stupid and I will be glad to agree with you
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
pacman, tank johnson, vick, all fools who cannot stay out of trouble and act like adults,
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this
Hotrod talk that crap to someone else but you can’t fool me. Anyone that will get on these blogs and will not support or attend games because he has been accused of dog fighting. I say you people are the fools. You probably voted for Bush and he has our youg people over there getting killed daily. You racist people need to let it go. Furthermore, you don’t know nothing about Vick except but what you see on TV. How could you say he will be broke in 5 years when you know NOTHING about him. Please this is to you and all the other RACIST on this board GO AWAY and support NASCAR, Horse Racing,Deer Hunting and Tobacco spitting events. While we get ready for the 2007 season whether it is a good season or not.
By walterelrod
July 6, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
this post started with the headline “reason for optimism” by our friend mark,I have not read anything to get my optimism up for the nfl team in atlanta,so I guess I was right,nobody that lives north of I-285 will care what they do.
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
HotRod this comment from you further proves my point (
July 6, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
pacman, tank johnson, vick, all fools who cannot stay out of trouble and act like adults,)Its sad man that you share those views I will pray for you and others like you.
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this
vickbeliver im not a racist just a realist,you automatically defend him because he is black,you know im right. If a white guy is wrong I call him out, you cant do that, I dont know why.If you owned a dog that you cared about like I do you would understand,there just like my child,and I know other people that are the same way.I dont support horse racing thats gambling, im smart with my money so I wont end up under a bridge with vick. I dont chew tobacco either, thats gross,I did not accuse you of being a crackhead so lay off the stereotypes falcons 6-10 thats what you should be worried about
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this
you better pray for these guys going to strip clubs and buying guns and gambling at dog fights, if you defend these actions you are a hippocrite,vickbeliver,you better start believing they are all guilty
By Chris
July 6, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
Hey GAbreed, I don’t have season tickets to any African or SE Asian sporting events. I don’t really follow 3rd world athletics.
Talk about a soapbox? Listen to you preach.
It’s like people who cheer for Barry Bonds in San Francisco. They know he’s a sh—head, but they cheer anyway. Am I willing to be such a hypocrite when it comes to the Falcons? What takes precedence: supporting your team or standing up for personal beliefs?
Put that in your bong and smoke it.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
And if anyone thinks I’m a “hater” or I’m down on Vick because he’s black, then you are truly the ones with the racial issues, not myself.
Let’s run through the list: Flippin off fans; the infamous Miami water bottle incident; admitting he gave up in the Carolina game at the end of the 05 season; not showing up to meet with Congress; breeding and raising dogs to maim and kill each other; the “Ron Mexico” incident; and how many others?
This is about a guy who is a waste of space. To be sure, he is a phenomenal athlete who can change the course of the game in 1 play. Is his physical prowess enough to overcome is off-the-field issues, as well as his overall lack of good judgment and leadership qualities? Come on, people.
It’s not about race. It’s about being the face of a franchise and an ambassador for the city of Atlanta and the state of Georgia. I’m from Atlanta. Michael Vick is an embarrassment. I don’t want the face of Atlanta to be a—hole, lying (the water bottle was for jewelry, huh?) criminal. Plain and simple.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this
“Confederate mentality”? Oh, I forgot. If you happen to be white, and you happen to criticize a person who happens to be black, FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER, you are racist, right?
“Confederate mentality”? How about if someone spoke of an “African,” “Inner-city” or “Ghetto” mentality? Would that be as OK as you saying “Confederate”?
Find some other place to spew your hate.
People, it not OK do dislike a black person, because he raises dogs to kill each other, or because he doesn’t take responsibility for his actions, or because he is a straight-up liar. This is not permitted. If someone happens to be black, you may not criticize that person in any way. Remember that. It’ll come in handy down in the Dirty South.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this
Hey Bobby, an alternate definition of “thug” at dictionary.com: “a cutthroat or ruffian; a hoodlum”
definition of “ruffian”: “a tough, lawless person; roughneck; bully”
“roughneck”: uncouth person
So, if a white person calls Vick a “thug,” he is “racist,” correct?
You believe that racism is defined by referring to someone as a “thug,” when the definitions of thug and the words that define it contain no mention of race. Interesting…So who is the racist here?
By gary
July 6, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this
why is mark bradley being positive? it sounds forced and he seems miserable when he does this. not to mention, he’s wong. the falcons are a joke. they have absolutely no defense, whatsoever; vick is a dogfighting thug with the mental capacity of a fire hydrant; the running back core consists of two mini-me’s; etc.; etc.; etc.;
stay away from covering the falocons, bradley. just have terrence moore write about how everyone is racist instead.
By 2LiveStu
July 6, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
The Washington Redskins once had the “Over the Hill Gang.”
The 2007 Atlanta Falcons will have the “CHAIN GANG.”
Can get a “WOOF! WOOF!” from all the red & black dogs and poodles out there ?
Holla!
By Cedric
July 6, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
Why in the shadows of this Vick investigation has no one mentioned DJ Shockley? I certainly do not want to lose Vick for no games, but if so I would rather see now in preseason what he can do playing the whole game or most of it. He gives us more flexibility than Harrington. I think if we have to depend on our run game more so than anything else it will help whoever is behind center. Also it will help our defense stay off the field and rested. Sounds good but we will just have to see if those FEDS find anything on our main man Vick. They probably will plant something in his backyard just to make an example out of him.
By john white
July 6, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
numerous studies have statistically shown that black people are mentally inferior. if you talk to one (and they don’t try to rob you), it is clear that they lack intellect, manners, and civility. mike vick is no different. the falcons are better suited to win with a white quarterback. black athletes are only effective when their decision making skills (or lack thereof) are kept to a minimum. instead of “put in schaub” i’m now going to have to chant “put in harrington.” that is, if the criminal vick doesn’t go to jail for being a fool.
By David Duke
July 6, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
Mark is being overly optimistic when he mentions a four game suspension for vick. He’s under investigation by the Feds and they searched his property again today. This is not juust being done out of curiosity. They’re intending to bring him up on some very serious charges and to make their case stick. If they succeed, and I think they will, Mike vick will never play in the NFL again!
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
Hey you Vick haters this is for you especailly Chris and Walter Elrod: I wonder why I concern about what YOU haters think? Why do WE Falcons fan continue to respond to these idiots who post the same ignorant comments. The underlying theme is always the same. They can’t embrace the Falcons with Vick at QB, so their confederate mentalities want him moved to the traditional skill positions they feel are reserved for his kind(WR,CB,RB). This entire argument reminds me of the movie THE GREAT WHITE HOPE. They want to see Schaub or someone 6’5 and blue eyes assume his rightful place as the brains and leader of the Falcons. They don’t need to know if Schaub or whoever else can win a SB for this team. They don’t mind losing as long as tradition is upheld. The fact that only one QB has led the Falcons to a SB, in the history of this franchise, doesn’t matter. All of those QB’s were traditional and met the confederate minded standard for acceptance. To try and prove to everyone, especially themselves, race and/or color doesn’t matter, they mention Shockey as an option. They see Shockey as a local UGA boy, that is more plantation friendly than the more talented finger flipping Vick. They don’t care if Schaub can’t lead the Falcons to a SB, or that he’s winless, as long as their confederate minded tradition is in place. If Vick is to be the Falcons QB, he MUST lead us to a SB win. Anything less requires he be replaced by a smarter(traditional) QB or moved to one of the traditional position for his kind. Being the winningest QB in Falcons history, and having only 1 losing season as a starter, doesn’t matter to them as much as their sick traditional values. Leave these morons to themselves, and let’s discuss the Falcons with a 21st century mentality.
By David Duke
July 6, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this
Schaub has been traded. He’s no longer here. Chris Chandler is the only quarterback to ever take the Falcons to a Superbowl. I don’t want Vick moved to another position. I want him moved to prison, where he belongs!
By Chris
July 6, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Why can’t you get it through your head that people don’t like Vick because of his behavior, not because of his skin tone? You, my friend, are the true racist here. You defend him because he is black; therefore, you feel that anyone who does not like him likewise does so because Vick is black.
You did not refute one single point I made in my earlier posts. He is a liar; he (judging by lots of, at this point circumstantial, evidence) raised dogs to fight and kill each other, and bet money on it; and several more things I already listed but will not again list for you.
The 21st Century mentality you speak of does not involve race. You are so absorbed in your own racism that you can not think that anyone would disagree with a black person for any reason other than the color of that person’s skin. I truly feel sorry for you.
When you want to join the rest of us in the 21st Century and learn to judge a man by the content of his character and by his actions, rather than by the color of his skin, feel free to do so. Until then, wallow in your own hatred. It must be lonely down there in all that bullsh—.
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
Vickbeliever you cannot be as dumb as you sound, do you know the DJ Shockley is black???
Also I have no problem with any other blacks on the team, only the one who is an embarrassment to Atlanta.
You my friend are the racist!!!!
By The Truth
July 6, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this
Michael Vick is a no-talent retarded punk like his brother who would as soon slit your throat as to look at you. His classless sub-human relatives wished injury to Chris Chandler in front of Chandlers relatives so MV could start. Hopefully he will have a career ending leg fracture with some dog chewing on his knarly bone.
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
I am with you Cedric, let’s see DJ get a shot at leading the team,he’s a winner, a leader and a good person. He deserves a chance for being a loyal teamate, oh yea and he is a QUARTERBACK, not an athelete playing QB.
One other thing,former GEORGIA QB DJ SHOCKLEY will put more people in the seats than that punk from VA TECH.
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYBODY!
By The Truth
July 6, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
Is it me or does Mark Bradley have some kind of man-crush on Bobby Petrino, or perhaps, is he trying to suck-up for future favorable treatment?
By Chris
July 6, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
Just listening to 680 and Kincaid has kind of a man crush on Petrino, too. They’ve had access to the man. Hopefully they’ve seen something they like and that inspires them to think the team will succeed under Petrino.
If those aren’t the reasons for the crush, then it’s just weird.
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
You people are not slick hiding behind the fact you would like Shockley to QB. Give me a break that is your way of trying to prove you are not a racist. To all of you who think I defend Vick because he is black is ludacris. I defend him because he has never had the chance to prove his worth. No coaching everyone wants to call him a athelete like that is a negative. Just watch you morons what Petrino does with the athelete. Then I like to see what you racist will come up with next to hate on him.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
According to ESPN, this was in the court documents filed befor ethe search at Vick’s property today:
“Fights would end when one dog died or the surrender of the losing dog, which was sometimes put to death by drowning, strangulation, hanging, gun shot, electrocution or some other method, according to the documents.”
Are you f-ing kidding me?
It also says these fights have been going on since at least 2002, with participants coming form as far away as Texas.
5 years, thousands and thousands of dollars and hundreds and hundreds of dogs going through this house. And Michael Vick knew nothing about it?
When he gets indicted on charges, how will you apologists feel about him then?
By Chris
July 6, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
Dude, it’s “ludicrous,” not “ludacris.” My God, you learned how to spell from a rapper…
That’s awesome…
By Chris
July 6, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
What we “will come up with next to hate on him”? What the hell do you mean? Like we just “came up” with this whole dogfighting thing?
Let’s see. In your world, a white guy probably planted that water bottle with the hidden “jewelry” compartment on Michael Vick at the Miami airport, right?
When Vick wasn’t at HIS house in Virginia, a white guy snuck in, staged a lot of dog fights, and buried carcasses (that’s bodies, by the way) in the back yard, right?
When Vick didn’t make it to his appointment with Congress, a white guy probably cut him off in traffic causing him to miss his plane, right?
A white guy made him so mad he flipped off the Dome crowd, right?
A white guy probably planted that Rolex on Vick’s buddy that got busted for stealing at the airport, right?
Take responsibility for your own actions. If someone is “hating on you,” you most likely did something to deserve that disapproval. It’s not because you’re black. It’s because you’re an idiot and an embarrassment.
By The Truth
July 6, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
Of course Vick, didn’t know what was going on at his own house over a number of years. And O.J. didn’t do it either. This proves Prick, er Vick is either a liar or really stupid. I’m voting for both.
By The dirty Bird
July 6, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this
Ok Ok I have herd enough. Some of you are just like O.J. Watchers you all talk crap but if Vick were to come to your house to chill you would jump up and down like you won the lotto. Lets be real. There is no crying in football. If you want to change teams or jump the wagon then do so but after sitting through a season like last year as a fan any spot light is nice. Killing dogs bad no inditment with new faces new attitudes and better coaching is good get it. If you were ever a fan of real football you should see my point. All of this has nothing to do with a true fan on a sunday enjoying cold bear hot wing and your team winning a game. Love him or hate him you don’t really know him. Enjoy the show on sundays and leave the game like it should be. Football…. not courts not laws not personal. Just Football.
By The dirty Bird
July 6, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this
Ok Ok I have herd enough. Some of you are just like O.J. Watchers you all talk crap but if Vick were to come to your house to chill you would jump up and down like you won the lotto. Lets be real. There is no crying in football. If you want to change teams or jump the wagon then do so but after sitting through a season like last year as a fan any spot light is nice. Killing dogs bad no inditment with new faces new attitudes and better coaching is good get it. If you were ever a fan of real football you should see my point. All of this has nothing to do with a true fan on a sunday enjoying cold bear hot wing and your team winning a game. Love him or hate him you don’t really know him. Enjoy the show on sundays and leave the game like it should be. Football…. not courts not laws not personal. Just Football.
By Jay Black
July 6, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry. If Vick ends up broke, he will pawn his Super Bowl rings.
By Ted Red
July 6, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this
Jay Black,
From whom did Vick steal those Super Bowl rings?
The players who were talented and dedicated enough to EARN them probably want them back.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
It’s just football…I get it.
Here is the problem: the money I am paying to support the team directly goes to support someone who I deem to have very poor character. He’s not just a football player; he’s a guy getting my money. He’s the face of the franchise, the franchise my family has supported since the first day they took the field. He’s an ambassador for the city of Atlanta and the state of Georgia, places I am happy to call my home.
Come on, man. You’re telling me that you can’t be critical of someone simply because he plays for your team?
I’m loyal to myself, my city and my team. Michael Vick has not returned the loyalty or support the city of Atlanta has shown him for 7 years. He has done nothing to keep himself out of trouble.
You want me to be loyal to Vick; how about Vick being loyal to and respectful of the people who have stood by him for so long?
By WSB Listener
July 6, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this
Mike Vick gave dogs Herpes on a rape-stand and then shot and strangled them to keep them quiet?!?!?
By Laquisha the Inarticulate
July 6, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this
Buncha suckaz yall best quit yo hate of vick. Yall buncha racists! Hiding Bhine keebords insted white sheeets. SHOW YO HOODZ! SHOW YO HOODZ!
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this
Fights would end when one dog died or the surrender of the losing dog, which was sometimes put to death by drowning, strangulation, hanging, gun shot, electrocution or some other method, according to the documents.
thats what they should do with the dog owners!!!!
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
vickbeliever your the one that will be eating his words after we see even with a real coach Vick is just too stupid to get it done!
By VickBeliever
July 6, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this
VickBeliever is on his knees and waiting for you, Michael. I just bought some new Chap*Stick, too.
By Bushwacker
July 6, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
If Vick showed up at my house I’d kick his slimy a* to the curb!
By The truth
July 6, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
Typical reaction from many Vick apologists - call someone racist. Black people need to learn the race card has been dealt so often and without reason it’s losing all it’s meaning. Truth is blacks are much more racist than whites and define 95% of who they are by their color. What a pathetic way to go through life.
By Me
July 6, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
These are the Falcons. They’ll find some way to screw things up.
By Varon
July 6, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this
Its about time that we got to talking about"OPTOMISM" concerning the Falcons. NO CHARGES!! Its about time for this “wichhunt” to end. MV should get an apology from the AJC…especially Terrence Moore and Shcultz!!! straight hacks with no talent except sensational stories of “what ifs” and “maybes". If you dont like Vick as QB, dont watch...you arent fans anyway…to all of you bloggers who won`t support The Team….I and several others need for you to PLEASE… turn in your season tickets… there is STILL a waiting list and I NEED TICKETS!!!!!
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this
Sorry Haters
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2927560
Maybe next time
By Jeff
July 6, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this
This punk Vick and the SADISTIC PIGS he refers to as friends belong in maximum security jails. Apparently these sub-human wannabe Nazis tortured the dogs that “lost” the fights before killing them; how bankrupt one must be to derive pleasure from the torture of animals. Like I said before: Most serial killers tortured and killed animals before turning their attention to other human beings.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this
See you all at the Dome with your #7 jerseys on this fall… . .
By Chris
July 6, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this
Because 1 unidentified source says Vick is not likely to be indicted on the first charges to be brought up, you give him a pass?
How could you, as a competent human being, own and periodically visit a property for over 5 years and have no knowledge of an official gambling ring?
And if you’re so big on unnamed sources, how about the multiple individuals who have come forward to say that Vick not only knew about the dogfighting, but supported it both in time and in finances?
How about the unnamed sources who claim that Vick has wagered thousands on dog fights on several occasions dating back to his days at Virginia Tech?
You think we’re haters? No, we are reasonable people who can connect the dots. But, then again, if we’re white, we’re racists, right?
By HistoryProf
July 6, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this
“Fights would end when one dog died or the surrender of the losing dog, which was sometimes put to death by drowning, strangulation, hanging, gun shot, electrocution or some other method, according to the documents.”
Is it just me, or has Vick been doing to the puppies what the Nazis and KKK used to do to the defenseless.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this
Hey Just the facts, here are some facts for you:
66 dogs found on the property in april, including 55 pit bulls.
7 carcasses removed from the property in a June raid.
15 officers at the property today, and we don’t know yet what they recovered.
A rape stand. Bloody pits. Tracks. Thousands of dollars in betting and hundreds of dogs’ lives lost to satisy some pathetic losers’ thirsts for excitement and money.
And a house deed with Michael Vick’s name on it.
Those are some facts for you.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this
Those unnamed sources were not Federal Law Enforcement Officials. They were uncredible sources looking to have their own sentences reduced. We’ll see you all at the Dome on Sundays. God Bless and Good Night.
I don’t care what color you are. I’m not black either. Doesn’t change the fact that MV7 will be Quarterbacking this team in the fall and winter.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
I misspoke when I said “gambling” ring. I had just been reading another story about gambling and my brain crossed the 2. I meant “dogfighting” ring. But you knew what I meant.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
66 dogs? Turns out there was only 53 dogs according to official paperwork. Don’t believe everything you hear in the media. The earth used to be flat remember? Pluto used to be a planet. Smoking used to be good for you. There used to be Weapons of Mass Destruction in Iraq. Duke students used to be rapists. People are still sheep that are eager to be led to slaughter.
To the Dome!!!!
Where my dogs at??
You rednecks get so angry,yet you’re the ones who invented dog figthing.
Monkee See, Monkey Do?
By PeaceLoveDope
July 6, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this
Chris,
The THUGZ gambled on the dogfighting, so either term applies.
Sunburn in H@ll, Vick, you diseased, dog-killing, woman-abusing, inarticulate, unintelligent, future jailhouse sodomite!
By Malcolm Xstein
July 6, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this
You can’t say that, Just the Facts! That’s racist!
What exactly is a “RALLY MONKEY” in sports, anyway?
Is that what Rainbow-PUSH was wanting the Braves to get more of?
By Chris
July 6, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this
How can you call someone credible or uncredible (which is actually a misspelling of “incredible,” but we’ll let that slide for now.
And Federal Law Enforcement Officials did not say that Vick will not be indicted. That was attributed to unnamed “sources” that told Chris Mortensen.
How do you if these sources are credible or “uncredible?”
Since you all about just the facts, I thought you would actually get some facts correct in your argument. Whoops. Big presumption there.
If you want to talk about facts, produce some, not speculation or conjecture.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this
When all else fails, resort to name calling. The last rule in the player haters hand book.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this
What the hell are you talking about a flat Earth, Pluto or WMD?
It was 53 PIT BULLS among the TOTAL OF 66 DOGS. Don’t believe everything you hear in the media? How about that little fact for you?
You seem to be decent at writing. How can you be so while also being unable to read?
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this
Fact:
Atlanta Falcons Starting QB:Michael Vick
By Chris
July 6, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this
George Bush hasn’t been indicted on any charges, so why everybody be hatin’ on him all the time? He hasn’t been convicted of anything, yet people have an easy time judging him.
So if Michael Vick is not to be criticized until he is found guilty in a court of law, the same applies for the president.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this
It’s my suttle way of telling you that the media will tell you ANYTHING just as long as you keep watching. Most of you are part of an eager and gullible media audience that will believe anything you see on a television screen. Remember the Duke boys. Not Bo and Luke.
It’s really entertaining that you all care more about athletes than presidents, congressmen, preachers, mayors, and people who actually have influence on our lives.
The media owes M. Vick and apology if no charges are brought. What do they care? They’re off to sensationalize and embellish the next tid bit of a story involving someone famous that can sell newspapers and television advertising time.
Sheep being led to slaughter by the media.
Where my dogs at?
By George Bush
July 6, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this
People have an easy time judging whomever because most people are stupid and want to concentrate on anything but correcting their own sorry lives.
By celawjr
July 6, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this
Why is it that when the people see things going their way the facts are good and are credible. When the “darth vader” guy came on espn saying that Mike was involved everyone said well its credible even though he was an unnamed source. Now that federal authorities have informed the NFL and the Falcons camp that they will not indict Vick the “unnamed” sources are less credible. I’m glad this junk is almost over with, and I’m glad the ones who supported vick turned out to be right. I’m Happy to know that true Falcons fan can move forward because they know that even when the best investigation teams in the nation sought to find proof to put MV behind bars they concluded there was NO PROOF to BE FOUND because there was no REASON to FIND any against HIM. Now on to the matter at hand, FALCONS LETS GET FOCUSED ON TAKING THE DIVISION AND CONFERENCE, and whenever all the rest of ya’ll get through sulking come on over to section 121 and celebrate the BIRDS w/the REAL FALCONS FANS!
By Jeff
July 6, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this
Mr. Vick won’t be the starting QB for long. I’m sure Mr. Blank is looking for a loophole in Vick’s contract so he can rid himself of the Michael Vick cancer. Nobody in their right mind would deed responsibility of an NFL team to a low life thug who takes pleasure in the sadistic torture of animals.
By DanCFrom NJ
July 6, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this
Chris very well said.
You atlanta a holes who stood up for that piece of trash vick , how are you feeling about things now?
Like Mike
If we were all going to prison , Like Mike.
Burn in Hell Vick
Arthur blank cut his black arse!!
By George Bush
July 6, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
DanCFrom NJ,
I’m feeling pretty damn good. Just found out that my boy M. Vick can’t be tied to this dog fighting operation and that the people who are actually involved will be going down shortly. That makes me feel pretty good, that the Feds actually took the time to figure out who was involved. The Feds don’t just give athletes a pass. Turns out there wasn’t any evidence to tie him to it. I feel great!
How do you feel knowing that you have to defend against the M. Vick led Falcons twice again this year? What is Carolina’s record when they face a M. Vick led team again? Pretty sorry. How does that feel?
By Chris
July 6, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this
“It’s really entertaining that you all care more about athletes than presidents, congressmen, preachers, mayors, and people who actually have influence on our lives.”
No how do you know this? Do you spend time with any of the people on this forum?
And if everyone else on here cares more about athletes than they do about these other people, what does that make you? You spend time on here arguing, as do the rest of us.
Just the facts for ya there.
And as for the ones that supported Vick turning out to be right?
This mess is a long way from over. Federal dogfighting cases typically take over a year just to make it to the trial phase. If you are upset with people for rushing to judgment about Vick, perhaps you yourself shouldn’t rush to judgment about people on this board until the case is settled and the dust has cleared.
By the way, justthefacts, I noticed you did not refute any of the FACTS I posted for you earlier. Perhaps you need to look up the definition of the word “fact” before using it so strongly.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
Arthur Blank doesn’t need a loophole. He could just cut him. NFL contracts aren’t guaranteed as you obviously know.
But I’m sure that somewhere Arthur Blank is saying “How can I find a way to make sure that merchandise sales drop WAY off, and that the Dome will be half empty every sunday like it was for 40 years? How can I make sure that our team is not exciting to watch, and that we are bound to 5-11 seasons for the next decade”
By celawjr
July 6, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this
Haven’t you all heard the news Jeff, Chris, DanC HE IS NOT being indicted becasue there is no evidence of anything, the same as with the WATER BOTTLE I’m so tired of ya’ll calling people thugs and being unable to justify it. What makes any of you so righteous that you can judge another man. You all cast those words around so ruthlessly and heartlessly. Even NOW AFTER the FEDS have SAID they are NOT even INDICTING HIM which means they are not even going to have a HEARING to see if he SHOULD be CHARGED, YA’LL still call him these names It is sickening and saddening to know that there are so many people out there that try to shroud themselves under the guise that they are interested in sports when all they are actually interested in is being angry, and jaded and hurtful. Why is it that you can only hear the parts that YOU WANT TO HEAR and not everything that is said. WAKE THE HELL UP ATLANTA, there is more to life than being angry about the quarterback you have, and if you are angry about it don’t let the fact that you don’t like a person as an athlete mutate into something MUCH MUCH MORE INSIDIOUS.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this
He can’t just cut him. The salary cap ramifications would be enormous. The NFL does have a salary cap “as you obviously know.”
By Chris
July 6, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this
Want someone to justify using the word “thug”? Look several posts above, when I defined the word “thug” as well as the words included in that definition.
Look, you guys think that people who THINK Vick are guilty of something actually WANT him to be guilty.
I HOPE Vick is cleared of any wrongdoing. I THINK he will get into trouble.
How many times to you have to see smoke before you know that something is on fire?
By David Duke
July 6, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this
Bad Newz, Vick will soon be indicted for dog fighting and for much more. he’s been engaged in a criminal enterprise, conducted clandestinely and that brings the RICO statutes into play here. Vick will never play in the NFL again! Praise be to Jesus.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 6, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this
Chris,
Sorry. I can’t respond to every idiotic posting that’s made. Please highlight your most important ones next time.
David Duke,
How’s the re-election going?
“And starting QB for the Atlanta Falcons, from Virginia Tech, #7, Michael Vick”
By celawjr
July 6, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
Chris I understand your perspective and your concerns, however if the FEDS are saying to the NFL and ATLANTA FALCONS that MICHAEL VICK has NOTHING to do with the smoke as far as their concerned then why should you anticipate that he is in any trouble. They are in the process of preparing for grand jury trial and he is not one of the parties to be indicted. If he is not indicted then he can’t be charged with anything. Do you think the NFL or Atlanta Falcons would have released that info if they believed it to be inaccurate info. If this stands and he is not indicted by the FEDS, will you then back off your stance that he is a thug?
By Chris
July 6, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Like I said, I backed the guy until this whole dogfighting thing came out. Through all the other nonsense, I stood behind him. When people chanted for Schaub to come in, I told them they were idiots and Vick gives you the best chance to win.
Then the dogfighting thing came up. I really, really hope he isn’t involved. But when something is going on on your property for 5 years, how can you seriously have no idea?
At worst, he’s guilty and going to jail. At best, he’s an idiot who can’t keep up with what happens on his own property. Either way, he is awfully foolish.
If there is a case and Vick is not involved, I will support him. But, my God, how many times can you get into trouble and come up with an excuse? How many times can you blame other people? It’s getting ridiculous at this point.
By celawjr
July 6, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
I guess you’d be surprised how easy it would be to not know. The FEDS evidently can see how easy it would be to not know, based on the evidence or lack thereof that they have gathered.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
I would still find him to be of very questionable character. Whether I would drop my assertion of him as a thug, time will tell. I pretty much felt he possessed thuggish qualities before this issue, but I still supported him. This took away that support.
And remember, the ESPN reported quotes an unnamed source as saying that federal officials said those things to the NFL and Falcons. I’ll need to see what’s in the actual indictment before rushing to judgment.
But I mean, come on, man. 5 years and no idea what was going on? Really? Really? That’s almost unbelievable.
Now, unbelievable and under indictment are certainly 2 different things.
By David Duke
July 6, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
Vick is going to be indicted and tried. He won’t be quarterbacking in the NFL again. Too bad if you don’t like it. Lump it!
By celawjr
July 6, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
Chris you said he was a liar but what did you base that on. So far his word rings true. And although you have openly stated that you are not one of the people that dislike Mike Vick for reasons that are racially motivated, don’t think that there aren’t people on here that don’t fall squarely into that category. I sincerely believe that there are people on here that don’t even care about falcons football but just don’t like the idea of Michael Vick, the man, being the face of anything. I think some are unable to see this because they can not relate to it, they can not identify with it, they can not understand it. People say that African Americans on here “play the race” card, I say that’s a BS way to describe what is truly happening, because racism is not a DAMN GAME! As for this particular matter, black or not his name has been dragged through the mud by AJC, ESPN, and other news outlets, people including Congressmen have called for his head, T MOORE, J. Schultz but through all of that there is nothing that’s sticking. The question we all have to ask ourselves is Why is it that no one wanted to allow Michael Vick due process? Perhaps the answer is not as simple as blatant racism, maybe it is. I don’t know the answer, but what I do know is that with the help of the media, a water bottle “incident”, and a dog fighting allegation for which he will not be charged HE in the EYES of many Will still be a THUG and nothing can ever change that for them. that’s the part that Many people look at as racist, the fact that outside of flipping people off like {JAKE PLUMMER or Adam Morrison) and personal sexual matters (to which 1 in 4 people can attest) He really hasn’t done anything thuggish, but in your eyes he was already “thuggish”. And you are not even a racist person, but for the rest of the people what is it? Even if it seems unbelievable that he didn’t know the FEDS BELIEVE it. He hasn’t robbed, maimed, or assaulted anyone but he is a thug in your eyes? What makes you think to characterize him as a thug? I don’t defend anything he has done wrong (if he has done anything wrong) I defend his right to not be looked upon as a bad person until it is proven that he is a bad person. I think some people have already made up their minds.
By falCON #7
July 6, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
hooray! everyone give mike vick a hand. he was barely smart enough to cover his tracks from his OBVIOUS involvement in the dogfighting ring. but he’s not out of the woods yet: there’s still random drug tests for him to fail and more women he can give herpes to and more airport security checks to get busted at. something’s gonna give, because he’s too stupid. not to mention, even if he by some miracle does get to play, he’ll screw it up. petrino has him calling audibles! do you see this guy reading a defense? ha!
By David Duke
July 6, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
How much do you need to see? He’s a thug and he’s going to get appropriate punishent.
By Chris
July 6, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
There certainly are people out there who dislike Vick because of the color of his skin. However, it’s wrong and horribly judgmental to assume that anyone with a grievance against Michael Vick feels the way they do simply because he is black.
Yes, there are those people. But to resort to such base-level attacks against others screams itself of racism.
He’s a liar because he said he couldn’t catch a plane to D.C. Airtran, his sponsor, flatly said this was false. He was also dropped by them shortly thereafter.
That’s enough for tonight. I’m done with work now. Time to go think happy thoughts.
By hotrod
July 6, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this
gave herpes to a woman, flipped of the fans, picture of him holding dope, fake waterbottle to hide dope, admitted quitting in a game, owned a house where dogfighting took place,
Im ashamed he is our quaterback
By tylerdee
July 6, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this
This Blog is ridiculous to Read I wish the AJC would filter out half of this scrap, if it has nothing to do with the subject. This world is just messed up. We can’t have a decent blog without the subject of RACE. God Bless you all with the name calling and judging. Let’s not use this forum for that kind of stuff. Thanks
By David Duke
July 6, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this
Racially insensitive comments have been at a minimum, so far as I can tell. People criticize and don’t care for Vick because of his actions and poor play. I don’t think that everyone who dislikes him is a racist. Many who do like him, however, see color as being his most salient, and desirable, quality. You one of those Tylerdee?
By tylerdee
July 6, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this
David Duke….I won’t go there. I’m not getting caught up in that..I’m just a home team sports fan.
By falcon80
July 7, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this
Wow, barely a mention here of the future of the Falcons, with or without Vick. The AJC has finally, truly, brainwashed every reader into believing that every issue is a racial issue!
By celawjr
July 7, 2007 2:00 AM | Link to this
If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you But make allowance for their doubting too, If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies, Or being hated, don’t give way to hating, And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream—and not make dreams your master, If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build ‘em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breath a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on!”
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with kings—nor lose the common touch, If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you; If all men count with you, but none too much, If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it, And—which is more—you’ll be a Man, my son!
—Rudyard Kipling
By SpecTater
July 7, 2007 2:06 AM | Link to this
Forget Football! I’d pay good money to see our local CHAMPION Mike Vick one-on-one in a “Steel Cage Match” with a healthy, angry pit bull.
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( However, I think it should be a pit bull that already has Herpes, so that it won’t get it from Vick’s bodily fluids that get spilled. )
( Vick should also have a raw pork chop in his jock for the match. )
Yes, sir. Give the fans what they want!
By Chris
July 7, 2007 2:16 AM | Link to this
Ummm…you really expect anyone to read that whole thing? I didn’t even like “The Jungle Book,” dude.
By Just the facts ma'am
July 7, 2007 3:41 AM | Link to this
But instead of all that nonsense, Mike Vick will be the starting QB for the Atlanta Falcons in September. Imagine that?