Sports Columnists

By Stu

July 18, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

I’ve waited for several years for Vick to become the player is supposed to be. He can make some great plays, but I’ve never been convinced that he is the quarterback to take the Falcons to the Super Bowl - and win.

I’ve been a fan since 1966 and believe me, it has been 40 years of wandering in the wilderness.

By John M. Dav is

July 18, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Arthur Blank needs to do the right thing for the team members and the franchise: FIRE VICK IMMEDIATELY!

By Lex Luthor

July 18, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

I used to think MV7 was too stupid to learn his plays. Not that’s confirmed.

By Spike

July 18, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

I will not support the Falcons again as long as Michael Vick is on the team. In my mind, he has proven once again that he is nothing more than a thug with a thug’s heart, mind and soul. Let D.J have the team.

By Grampus

July 18, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

People do stupid things all the time. I just wish I had his money to do them with.

By Redoubt

July 18, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

There are a lot of people who don’t now, and have never liked Michael Vick. This is something of a party for them.

Then there is the major, national sports media who have never liked Michael Vick or the Atlanta Falcons.

Finally, there is the public and Mr. John Average. If they were to have these very same charges brought against them, there would be no bold type or even any headlines at all. Their’s would be a case mostly ignored while the system of American justice, aka; ‘innocent until proven guilty’ was played out in a court of law.

Fair trial? You’ve got to be kidding! Most of the NFL booth apes and pud pounding media types have already convicted this guy.

Why do we even need a justice system? Because of people who write the garbage designed from the outset to try this case in the media.

…

By Mark

July 18, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

After reading the indictment, it is clear that Vick was involved in dog fighting. Read it, Vick lovers. Let’s see if Arthur can buy Vick’s way out of this one. Vick should be suspended until the trial is over. The Falcons are bad enough without having this inhumane dredge hanging over their heads.

By baloney

July 18, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

I want to be the first in the paper to say “Tom Brady or Peyton Manning probably would not have been indicted”. You know that is coming, just a matter of when and by whom. Also when Mora senior said Vick was a coach killer he was wrong. Long before allegedly killing dogs he was a receiver killer. Look at all the receivers that have come thru here. Coincidence that none could catch? Or a common denominator that they all had the same QB?

By Saddened Falcons Fan

July 18, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

It’s unfortunate that one of the founding principles of our judicial system, that anyone charged with a crime (even one as heinous as this) is deemed innocent until PROVEN guilty, seems to not apply to Michael Vick. It’s an even bigger shame that the city of Atlanta (and the South) have come so far in the past 50 years in the fight against racism, but we still have such a long way to go. Perhaps we should all ask ourselves if the hatred and the venom that so many spew in this town towards the Falcons quarterback would be the same if our play caller was a white man. If Vick is guilty of these horrible crimes, then he absolutely should pay the penalty. But until that guilt is determined, all of these small minded, hate filled, ignorant rednecks should crawl back under their white hoods and keep it to yourselves.

By J. Wheeler

July 18, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

This just goes to show…give an idiot a lot of money and he’s still an idiot…with a lot of money.

By JB

July 18, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Blank was the Falcons best hope. A winner in life with money and a Attitude of being the best. He’s trying. Firing coach’s etc….Guess what ? He’s gotta admit a big mistake and move on. It’ll get worse before it gets better. There are guys in that locker room who will stand by Vick, Even if they saw film. The next couple of years will be tough. It will be a house divided until the team weeds out the handful who will have their lip poked out about “THE MAN” taking their MAN out.

By Phil

July 18, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

I’d like to see Vick gone from the Falcons after all of this, assuming that he is found guilty. In the meantime, he might be facing suspension by the NFL. The Falcons should have kept Schaub, who in my opinion would have been a better QB than Vick anyway, had he played full-time for the Falcons.

By grilleth braums

July 18, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter one bit whether or not he gets convicted. His reputation and credibility are tarnished beyond all repair. He will forever be associated with this.

By warren

July 18, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Mark, In the list of people whom Vick has let down you omitted the loyal season ticket holder who has endured an increase in ticket prices every year that Vick has been here, hoping for at least a winning season.

By baloney

July 18, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

redoubt, do you realize how stupid your comments are?

By Mark

July 18, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Redoubt Have/can you read the entire indictment?

By Jumbo

July 18, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Innocent until proven guilty? Please! Vick’s name is not just sprinkled here and there in this indictment. It is all over the freakin place! And the feds have a 97% conviction rate when handing down an indictment meaning they don’t waste their time unless there is pretty convincing evidence. I am sickened by this report, not because we will lose a QB. I couldn’t give a rat’s a$$ about that. Think of the short lives these poor poor dogs had and their ultimate fate. Hung? Electrocuted? Shot? Slammed to the ground until dead? Drowned? Oh my G-d, this is just horrifying. I really hate these people with every fiber of my being.

By Diogenes

July 18, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

This has become the proverbial Greek tragedy in many ways — the squandering of talent and riches by Vick, the burning of misplaced trust on the part of Blank, and just the latest blow to a long-suffering fan base that can’t seem to catch a break.

Blank (whom I really feel for) SHOULD either cut or suspend Vick for the season, but probably won’t, because his options are limited. But consider the alternative — protests outside and inside the Dome, inter-fan strife at the games with likely an ugly racial undertone, and loss of enthusiasm particularly from the ticket-buying suburban fan base.

So, will the NFL act instead? It SHOULD, for one simple reason — the NFL MUST take a stand amd make a statement against the growing anti-social, destructive, nihilistic thug-persona lifestyle adopted by too many of its young players. The NLF MUST make a statement that if THAT’S who you want to be and be like, you’re not playing in this League. Only then will the NFL sell a product which all of us can embrace.

By Thomas Cianfrogna

July 18, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

I travel every year from New York to Atlanta to watch a game. This year I have a trip planned for October 15th with a slew of my NY Giant’s friends. I certainly hope Harrington is starting. I WILL NOT support the team with a criminal at QB. Wasn’t his involvement, from the beginning, fairly obvious?

By baloney

July 18, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

redoubt, do you realize how stupid your comments are? The media hyped Vick so much and wanted him to succeed so bad to shed the stigma about a balck QB. They tried the same earlier with McNabb but when he got hurt they hitched their wagon to Vick. WHen it became so obvious he wasn’t going to lead the team anywhere they have dropped him.

By bob flor

July 18, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

There can be no question, both from a business standpoint and a sports perspective, that Michael Vick must be taken from the field.

Since his inception with the Falcons he has been a marginal player at best. At times very exciting to watch, but afterall, he was brought to the team to become a leader as the quarterback. That simply has not happened.

Businesswise he becomes a liability as the pressure continues to mount with the ongoing investigation, hearings, and ensuing trial. His on field performance will unquestionably be challenged. As his performance falls off, so will that of his teammates. And then we go from simply being a losing team to being an embarassment. (Let us not forget the 1998 super bowl fiasco).

From a sports and fan base, Michael has already stuck us in the face with his ego-centric self. His little stunt at the airport and who can forget him throwing his hometown fans the bird. A gentleman, an athlete, role model, team leader, and person with any human decency just doesn’t throw it in your face, as he has done.

Finally, consider that the investigating authorities did not rush to judgement on this one. This indictment has been in the making, with no less than three investigating bodies, for at least three months. There has to be significant data implicating him.

It’s a shame. This town loves football and especially winning teams. We all deserve someone willing to be part of this great team franchise. We’re not looking for Bart Starr or Tom Brady, but a Steve Young, Chris Chandler or Donovan McNabb would be great. Get that kind of man at the helm and everyone else will fall in line behind him. bob

By JJ Morley

July 18, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

The guy is a thug, and this isn’t the first time he’s shown that, it’s only the latest and worst example of his behavior. Suspend him immediately pending the outcome. And if he pleads guilty or is convicted of a felony-level offense, fire him and ban him from football forever.

By Maria

July 18, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

I am in hopes that the authorities will find that Vick is not guilty.

I also hope that people realize that no one is perfect and everyone has made one mistake or another, however foolish.

Sometimes in order for someone to be humble they must weather a storm in order to become the man or woman they are suppose to be.

We have so many issues taking place not only in this city, country but the entire world that should be in the headlines.

Although these are serious charges people lets not forgot the serious matters that are taking place with the war, our troops that want to come home, but have been deployed yet for a 3rd time, the gas prices and profit of the big companies, the people of Hurricane Katrina that are still not being helped, the prostitution of minors in Atlanta, but all over the US, the petifiles, the value of the US dollar in comparison to other countries-where is the US headed, illegal immigration, and the countless other issues that we should be debating and asking the news to debate daily for the people.

By libby

July 18, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

BYE BYE THUG!!!!!!!!! YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY, WITHOUT A DOUBT, REVOLTING !!!!!!!

By Northside Fan

July 18, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

This thug/hoodlum has never shown any character and obviously was proficient at filling the air with cheap talk - must be a family trait as his brother has also demonstrated. The gullable Falcon fans just slurped it up!! I still find humor in any Ron Mexico jokes. The Falcons and the NFL need to know that the fans are not interested in watching a bunch of prison thugs make a travesty of the sport. Both need to make a Loud statement and ban him from the game. If I want to watch a bunch if inmates play, I can rent either version of the Longest Yard.

By J

July 18, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

So, with the indictment out there now… and who knows how long it’ll take to play out, but probably through much of the season…will there be protesters picketing stadiums, practice facilities, and team hotels all season long? Will there be news crews camping out in Flowery Branch and in the streets in front of Falcon Players’ homes waiting for team members to stick their heads out of the window for interviews?

Those are a couple of the questions that the Falcons front office will need to contemplate over the next few days / weeks. The embarrassment factor probably will have a lot to do with Michael Vick’s role on the team. If none of this happens, if there are no doggie plush toys being thrown at him in the stadiums, no Saturday Night Live skits, no constant media circus then Vick will surely play until the legal ship runs its course into either conviction / suspension or acquittal.

But if it’s all there, then how can they not say that it’s detrimental to the team?

By VickBeliever

July 18, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Can we please wait to hear Vick’s side of the story.

By KB

July 18, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

The presumption of innocence only exists to delay the gov. from taking away someone’s liberty. It does not apply to private business owners. Now is the time for Mr. Blank to show what he’s made of. I have always loved watching Vick play. Not only could I never cheer for him again, I would wish the worst for the Falcons as long as they associate with him. I don’t think I’m alone. My sons are with me (my 9 yr old put tape on his jersey to make a “17”). Do the right thing, Mr. Blank.

By warren

July 18, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

To the saddened Falcons Fan: You just couldn’t wait to play the race card could you? I’ve got news for you we’re all saddened but Vick is not being singled out because he is a black quarterback, he is being singled out because there is an 18 page Federal indictment against him for among other things animal cruelty. So the answer to your question is yes. A thug is a thug regardless of skin color. Get over it!

By lovelyliz

July 18, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

I will reserve judgment until the trial, but if convicted Michael Vick deserves the label of thug and cretin.

Dog fighting isn’t even a sport. It’s an illegal event around which illegal activities swirl: animal abuse, drugs/violence, gambling, tax evasion, etc. Sounds like racketeering.

Forget the NFL and the ASPCA, I’d be more worried about IRS.

By Pat

July 18, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Racism is real. Unfortunately for the blind fools defending Vick, it doesn’t apply here. Mr. Martin Luther King’s dream was that some day, black Americans would be judged not by skin color, but rather “the content of their character.” Yet again and again, murderers (OJ), cheats (Bonds), and a gallery of other sports thugs keep getting a pass from some blacks who simply can’t see that their heroes’ behavior has gotten them in the mess - not their skin color. Wake up guys. Defending these jerks just makes a mockery of those who are genuine victims of real racism.

By Redoubt

July 18, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Mark -

An indictment is not a conviction. Anyone can be indicted for any crime if a grand jury feels there is enough evidence to support a trial.

That is the thing here… a trail by a hury of peers. That’s how it’s done in America. If it were trial by media or trial by association or trial by weight of popular opinion, you and I might also be guilty of any of a number of crimes… including speaking our minds…

…

By Gene

July 18, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

If Vick did what he is accused of doing in the inditement, he is as sick as the whacko kid who was putting kittens in the microwave. Sports figures are out of control, and these horror stories will only stop when fans withdraw their support. Arthur Blank is just another facilitator. Vick really made a monkey out of him and the whole Falcons’ organization. It is too bad that Kennesaw Mountain Landis is not around to deal with these bums.

By Wendy

July 18, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

To the idiot who thinks the negative reaction is about race, did you happen to see the venom thrown Tom Glavine’s way when he left Atlanta for New York? I couldn’t care less about Michael Vick’s race. Read the indictment. If he was involved on any level, then he deserves ALL of the reaction that he’s getting.

In addition, he is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The court of public opinion has NEVER held such standards. Remember Mr. Rocker? Was he even charged with a crime (not that he didn’t get what he deserved)?

By libby

July 18, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Dear VickBeliever You have heard his side. He said he wasn’t involved. Read the the indictment. It’s pretty descriptive.

By rob

July 18, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

It is amazing that someone this much in the spotlight and this making as much money as he does would be anywhere near something like this. Whether he is guilty or not this is stupid. Just plain stupid.

By ex-vickville

July 18, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

I have been a Falcons Fan as long as I can remember. And as many of us have, gone down with the ship every other year it seems due to inconsistency and many losing seasons.

When Mike Vick was drafted I was overjoyed. Here I thought the Falcons had drafted the QB of the future that would take us to several playoff appearences and potentially a Super Bowl. Heck, I even adopted the nickname “Vickville” for a online Madden league I was running. Lame, but very catchy…

Vick lived up to mine, and many other Falcons fans expectations by helping take the team to the NFC Championship. (A team Dan Reeves built by the way). Falcons fans could not be happier with how things were going in Atlanta.

Then things seemed to get a bit loose and comfortable. Mike Vick seemed to imagine himself bigger than the team it seems with his off field activity and obviously putting himself in pretty bad company.

I mentioned going down with the ship every other year. I believe it’s time for the Falcons inactivate Mike Vick for the upcoming season for the “Football Clubs” sake. No doubt Mike Vick deserves his day in court. But it will be a circus all season long as long as he takes the field for the Atlanta Falcons. The Atlanta Falcons need to move forward this season without him and take the 14 plus million dollar cap hit in 08 and trade him after this season.

Not a Vick hater here guys. Just a fan who chooses to put the organization first. Time for the club to wash their hands and move forward. Even if it means taking a step or two backwards first.

By Mark

July 18, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

vickbeliever Noone will believe what Vick has to say. Read the indictment. His side of the story will be yet another lie.

By Ambrae

July 18, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

I am disgusted by the charges, dogs can’t speak they are defensless and trusting. For any human being to slam a dog into the ground or electricute a dog for not winning a fight is beyond sick. This is typical behavior of people who are mentally unstable and think because they have money they are GODS. I will pray he gets justice, though I would consider justice getting back what he gave, only a coward could harm animals. Doesn’t matter if this guy plays football, his actions should not be overlooked. The fact he could look at the dogs eyes and hear his crys when he was killing them and not feel that it was wrong and continued to do it only proves he is waste of sperm and talent. Again, I will pray he gets what he deserves and moreso that one day he can’t stand to look at himself for what he did to those dogs.

By R

July 18, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

“Perhaps we should all ask ourselves if the hatred and the venom that so many spew in this town towards the Falcons quarterback would be the same if our play caller was a white man.”

Failure to win the super bowl, flipping off the fans, the ron mexico incident….Yep, I would say that the hatred and venom would be the same. What is being missed here is that Vick gets attacked by people because of two things. 1. His actions and failures 2. Being a celebrity I think people that people that cry racism in this situation do not realize that anyone who is famous will have detractors. It’s all a part of the publicity game. Not everyone will love you. As an object in the media working in entertainment (sport is entertainment), Vick is open to be scrutinized. That is the price one pays for celebrity. Race has nothing to do with it. If it does, would someone please explain to me why would all of these racist fans help pay for the salaries of so many minority athletes through watching commericals, buying tickets, buying concessions, and buying memorbillia.

By Redoubt

July 18, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Someone once said, “… all it takes is a mob, partially informed, fully angry and equipped with a rope to make for a good lynching.”

That describes this issue and this mob to a point of certainty.

…

By Morris

July 18, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

I’d say he’ll get off with a slap on the wrist like Ray Lewis, but Lewis had the benefit of being prosecuted for homicide by an incompetent local district attorney. For killing dogs poor Vick has to contend with Federal prosecutors and the FBI.

Word to the wise for you young mischief makers out there: Do your killing of any kind right here in Fulton County. Don’t take it elsewhere because it is just going cause you problems in the end.

By Mark

July 18, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Now that Michael Vick has been collared by the Feds, he is in the dog-fight of his life. That is Bad Newz for the Atlanta Falcons. In the dog-eat-dog world of public relations, Vick and the NFL will find themselves in the dog-house, and certainly this time, the media will not be muzzled. We all fear the NFL has gone to the dogs, and Commissioner Goodell will not be able to shed his responsibilities. To prove his bark is not worse than his bite, this time he must throw the Fans a bone. We will not accept another dog and pony show for such transgressions, and such players must be kept on a short leash.

By Proud Dawg

July 18, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Just know this, the Feds have a 95% conviction rate. They do not indict unless they have a strong case. Mr. Vick your career is over!

By Alan

July 18, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Thisis NOT a black-and-white issue, and anyone who claims it is is either a liar or stupid or both. Mark Bradley has explained very clearly the meaning of an indictment. Michael Vick has been charged, and - unless some kind of legal settlement is reached - he will have his day(s) in court. Yes, like everyone else (white, black, red, yellow) who is charged, he must be presumed innocent until he has his day(s) in court. Meanwhile, of course, the dreaded “court of public opinion” is wide open for business - and that’s just the way it is in this free country of ours. Especially with celebrities - whatever their race, religion or sexual preference. Eventually the truth will emerge. Why don’t we wait and let it happen? That’s likely what the Falcons and the NFL will do, don’t you think?

By libby

July 18, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

Dear VickBeliever We have heard his side of the story. He said he didn’t do it. Read the indictment. It’s pretty descriptive.

By BuckeyeDave

July 18, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I find dog fighting to be an absolute abomination!!! Anyone that would do so is nothing more than a piece of cow crap. They are the lowest of the low not worthy of being called a human being! They are Neanderthals, morons who’s brains haven’t developed beyond base functioning. Anyone found to be doing this should be hog tied and thrown in to the middle of the pit and let the dogs exact their own justice!!!

As far as Vick’s in the league is concerned, he should be suspended immediately and made to give this years income to the SPCA and other dog welfare associations.

By deez

July 18, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

I am not from Atlanta and have no loyalty to the falcons, but I was curious to know what you guys think about something -

How would you feel about Dante Culpepper in a Falcons uniform?

By slinger

July 18, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

First off, Maria, “…everyone has made one mistake or another”? Ookie was doing this over a period of several years. That isn’t a one-time mistake-that is a pattern of disgusting behavior. Have you ever owned a dog? How someone could execute a dog in such ways is just sickening. After all of the torture inflicted on those dogs, I find it hillariously ironic that authorities were lead to this crime by the actions of a dog. Vick, get bent!

By Fred

July 18, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Who let the dogs out?

By Murph

July 18, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

I echo your sentiments JB. This is not a black/white thing. For that matter the idea of innocent until proven guilty is out the window. This boils down to the fact that as a Falcon Fan and furthermore a Virginia Tech Alum I am embarrassed for the way Mr. Vick has portrayed himself. The “idea” that he is involved in such a heinous act is enough to make me cringe. My mother told me a long time ago an old adage “perception is 9/10 reality”. Whether or not Mr. Vick is proven to be innocent of these charges or not there is a perception that he is guilty. This is not the kind of attention I want to be showered upon My Falcons and to a lesser extent the Virginia Tech community.

By Mark

July 18, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

I was just as excited about Vick coming to Atlanta as anyone else and I supported him from day one but as the seasons wore on I started having more and more doubts about him as a NFL QB. He just couldn’t put it all together for whatever reason. It was one good game followed by another bad game but the worst thing in my eyes was that he would never accept any responsibility for the teams struggles. To a certain extent I could live with that. It’s nothing new to see an athelete that thinks they are above criticism. This I can’t stand though. It’s disgusting. End of story and I don’t see how anyone can defend Vick now. I know he is innocent until proven guilty but the Feds don’t indict people if they don’t have a really good case. Their conviction rate is 95% or better. Also, a Not-Guilty verdict does not mean you are innocent. As far as I am concerned, I will not be supporting the Falcons as long as Vick is under center. Arthur Blank has to know that this WILL affect his pocket book.

By Blaney

July 18, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Mike needs to get on the same legal plan as that Brian Nichols guy who killed all those people down at the courthouse. That way the case will never make it to trial and the taxpayers pick up the tab for his legal fees. Just a nice way for all us to show our appreciation.

By 4-12

July 18, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

4-12….next words from the commish…with the first pick in the 2008 draft the falcons select….???

By Hasavior

July 18, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

MICHAEL VICK

IS NO RAY CARRUTH

NO DUI

NO FIREARM WEAPON CHARGES

NO CHARGE OF MURDER

NO CHARGE OF RAPE

NO CONTRIBUTION TO THE DELINUENCY OF A MINOR

NO MOLESTATION

NO BAR FIGHTS OR STRIP CLUB INCIDENTS

NO DOMESTIC ABUSE

NO CHILD PORN OR CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT

NO VEHICULAR SPEEDING OR HOMICIDE

I am trying to undertand why the intense heat and hatered for this man.

What has he done so, to cause such an posturing hate and discord with anyone.

What offenses has he done to warrant such impeeding hate?

By Jonny

July 18, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

For those that have little faith in Vick, I’m in partial agreement. Personally, I think this is greatly the fault of Arthur Blank. Blank gave this guy the impetus and encouragement to thug it up. Vick would have behaved far different if he didn’t think he had Daddy Warbucks to bail him out of any situation. What did Blank say? “It’s pretty clear I work for Michael Vick.” I believe that is a direct quote. Blank is a fool for giving that sort of power to an immature and unintelligent man like Vick. And now we see the consequences. Should Vick be fired? Maybe. But only after Blank fires himself.

By reza

July 18, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

If Vick is the role model of our children in this comunity we are in deep truble. Get rid of him immediately.One bad apple could destroy the entie crop.

By BJohnDawg

July 18, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Killing dogs is serious and vile offense. And if true the MVick should be punished.But one has to wonder why the federal government became involved in this mess and why federal charges were bought. And please do not tell me it was because a dog(s) was bought and then carried across state lines. That is a pure BS if someone says that is the reason. Much more serious things have happened across state lines and the feds sit on their collective asses.

I enjoy watching MVick run around NFL defenses, but never thought he is the type of complete QB that can take a team to the SuperBowl and win it.

If MVick indeed did do the things mentioned in the indictment then he needs to be punished by the criminal court system and suspended as well by the NFL.And dont be suprised to see Vick and the Falcons part ways….. But Federal charges still make you wonder.

By Buck

July 18, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Vick is nothing but a thug. It runs in the family. I precict him and his brother will wind up in prison at some time. He is indicative of some of the problems that society does not want to address. Mr. Blank, release Michael Vick immediately and get someone with integrity and a good heart. We don”t need this no character thug on the team.

By villa rica fan

July 18, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

This is a perfect time for Arthur Blank to separate himself from Michael Vick. Vick was only a 7-9 quarterback anyway. Don’t worry about salary cap implications and poor attendance, the Falcons are going to lose money anyway from corporate sponsors if they don’t punish Vick.

By lovelyliz

July 18, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

We’ve heard Vick’s side of the story, what about the dogs’?

By Kirby

July 18, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

The most overrated QB in the NFL is also the most stupid person alive to waste away that kind of money. Second to the title of Most Stupid is his boss and mentor, Blank.

By DisgruntledFan

July 18, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Redoubt, Dont be a moron.
This isnt a race issue. Its just about someone being an idiot much like yourself. Its sad when you cant look past skin color. Vick should be suspended this season whether he is found guilty or not.

By larry

July 18, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Michael Vick is a cruel sadistic individual with football talent. How sad that a role model for the black community has exhibited behavior of a savage barbarian. Always making excuses for these people does not change behavior. Blank and all this Home Depot money cannot buy him out of this one.

By guy

July 18, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

hello hypocrites. did you eat meat today? did you wear leather today? have you ever gone hunting? have you ever bet on a horse race? get off of your moral ant-hill, you animal killers. losing our star QB hurts the falcons. i don’t know why everyone seems to be gloating about it.

By LMH

July 18, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

I am a dog owner and lover. This has nothing to do with race. If Dale Murphy had done this, I would still be sickened. BUT, innocent until proven guilty still applies. We shall see.

By Charlie

July 18, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

“We will not accept another dog and pony show for such transgressions, and such players must be kept on a short leash.”

Bravo Mark! Best post yet.

By reza

July 18, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

If convicted, Miceal vick should be executed exactly the same way he did to the poor losing dog. Slam on the ground put water on him and elect…. I can not even say it. How could any body be so cruel and discusting.

By chris

July 18, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

As ususal ‘race card’ apologists are viewing this as a black and white issue with Vick as the victim. Those race card sycophants ignore the many African American athletes in professional sports who are idolized (MJ, Shaq, too many to mention) who are not subject to any of the scrutiny M. Vick has brought on him self through thuggery and stupidity. Of course there is ugly racism in our society but those who continually excuse bad behavior as the result of white racism are also a part of the race problem in this country. They have no credibility.

By snellville falcon

July 18, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Whetre Michael Vick is guilty or not, he is in a hard situation as how could he not know what was going on on his property especially when relatives were living there.

The Falcons are in a hard position. Does the team send a loud message and cut him or condone acts of this type and keep him around. And then wait for the next player to mess up.

I expect he will be kept and the fan base harmed. My belief is to send him packing nad see what respect the team gets.

By Akagi

July 18, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

For all those that were obviously miseducated in government schools the concept of “innocent until proven guilty” only applies to the government which must prove someone is guility in a court of law before that person’s life or liberty are deprived. No such standard applies to the public or the media which have no legal power to deprive Vick or anyone else of their life, liberty or property.

And yes, in my view Vick is 100% guilty of the charges and I am under no obligation to consider him innocent until proven guilty.

Please note that the eight members of the 1919 Chicago White Sox that were banned for life by baseball comissioner Kennesaw Mountain Landis were never convicted of anything in a court of law.

By Georgai still racist

July 18, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

It’s not surprising all the WHITE people in Georgia coming out against Vick. They been against him from day one. Georgia is the most RACIST state in America.

By The Truth

July 18, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY, YOU IDIOTS. Did the Lakers fire Kobe before he was convicted of Rape? Did Baltimore fire Ray Lewis before he was convicted of Murder? Of course not because people are charged with crimes that they don’t commit everyday. Mike Vick deserves a chance to defend himself before any action should be take by the Falcons. I can’t wait to read your crying responses when he is cleared of any charges. If the Falcons fire Vick before he is proven guilty in the court of law, then i will never support this organization again. But I doubt that happens.

By Mark

July 18, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

Knon

Way to keep those racial fires burning!!

By NOT A FALCON FAN

July 18, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

I grew up in Atlanta, moved away long ago, am not a Falcons fan, don’t know all the history, etc with Michael Vick, and really don’t care. What I do know is that he has put himself, the city, the Falcons and the NFL into a place they should never have been, and that the Falcons need to follow the lead of the Chicago Bears handling of Tank Johnson-cut him loose, NOW, because he is a detriment to the city, the team and the league. If he is found innocent, which appears to be a very remote possibility, then he can resume his career with whoever will have him. The simple fact is that he, like Tank Johnson, is a thug, who cannot understand basic behavior norms, and who apparently looks at anyone who accepts his word as simply a “mark”. A thug is a thug, no matter how good an athlete he happens to be. Sports history is filled with examples, Vick is simply the latest.

By Roswell Ed

July 18, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

A jury of his peers. Sorry.

Firing Reeves was a mistake.

Mora tried to treat these guys as buddies. These young men are not your buddies Jim.

It’s like having a child. You want your child to love and respect you and if he likes you it’s a bonus.

By EB

July 18, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

I’m forever amazed at how NFL owners, who are by-and-large very successful businessmen making important personnel decisions daily seem to lose their senses when it comes to athletes. Michael Vick is a thug. Surely Mr. Blank must have had some inkling about his character before he signed him to that HUGE contract. I mean, he’s smart and not going to drop that kind of money without some background research, right? Vick has been a poor investment for Mr. Blank and the Falcons and the returns will only diminish from here. I would think it is time for Mr. Blank to make the smart business decision and cut all affiliations with Mr. Vick. But, as I said earlier, NFL owners don’t always do the smart thing in these cases.

By jeffc

July 18, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Come on people! Racisim-give me a break!!!!!!

The media wanting to sell papers and airtime-yes this is where the problem lies. Calling Vick an idiot at this time, before he has been tried and convicted of anything is idiotic!!!

For the last three months Vick has been tried and found guilty by most of the media. Why? To get our attention, time, and to make $$$. Just two weeks ago the media changed their tune and started reporting that Vick was pretty much out of the woods and asking questions to the public such as “would Vick now change for the good after surviving a close call”. An ESPN NFL insider started reporting this. Yes a very good “football reporter”, but not someone who has much understanding of the legal system. Now the media is pushing the public back in the other direction suggesting his guilt. Guess what? The public is buying. I don’t know if Vick is guilty, and neither does anyone in the media. We don’t even know if this will get to trial, but we must let the legal system run its course. Only then should we judge Mike Vick fairly and publicly!

By Regular Guy

July 18, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

This has nothing to do with race. It has to do with one individual breaking the law. If Vick were white, he would be treated exactly the same. If he were not a celebrity, he would be treated the same. The entire story is just getting more media coverage because he is a celebrity, though. Stop trying to play the race card all the time. It’s a tactic that is getting old.

By A Fan

July 18, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

I am sad to read some of the comments, I’ve read about Vick’s indictment. Then again I’m not because there are so many racist pricks in this world. What happened to innocent until proven guilty. I hope those who have used the word thug loosely understands it isn’t color. True enough I think Vick is crazy for not selling the property once he moved out of Virginia instead of allowing family members and friends to stay on the property. If Vick is guilty he deserves to be put away but UNTIL he’s proven guilty give the man some slack. The white race is so ready to jump on one of ours when someone alleges a black man/women to be guilty of a crime.

By Rose

July 18, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

I am sad to read some of the comments, I’ve read about Vick’s indictment. Then again I’m not because there are so many racist pricks in this world. What happened to innocent until proven guilty. I hope those who have used the word thug loosely understands it isn’t color. True enough I think Vick is crazy for not selling the property once he moved out of Virginia instead of allowing family members and friends to stay on the property. If Vick is guilty he deserves to be put away but UNTIL he’s proven guilty give the man some slack. The white race is so ready to jump on one of ours when someone alleges a black man/women to be guilty of a crime.

By Rose

July 18, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

I am sad to read some of the comments, I’ve read about Vick’s indictment. Then again I’m not because there are so many racist pricks in this world. What happened to innocent until proven guilty. I hope those who have used the word thug loosely understands it isn’t color. True enough I think Vick is crazy for not selling the property once he moved out of Virginia instead of allowing family members and friends to stay on the property. If Vick is guilty he deserves to be put away but UNTIL he’s proven guilty give the man some slack. The white race is so ready to jump on one of ours when someone alleges a black man/women to be guilty of a crime.

By Rose

July 18, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Roswell Ed, are you talking about rednecks?

By Free Vick

July 18, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Replace Mike with Marcus!

By The Truth Comes Out

July 18, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

He is an inhumane non passing poor excuse for a human or a quarterback. Face it Vick lovers your hero is a loser plain and simple. If karma has any justce Vick will be reincarnated as a fire hydrant!

By Regular Guy

July 18, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

No, idiot. Not ALL white people are against Vick. You can ask everyone I know and they know I have been sticking up for him since day 1. I am white. I think he could be the greatest quarterback ever. Will be, though? The bottom line is that there appears to be evidence that he has been breaking the law. Cruelty to animals is against the law; gambling on dogfights is against the law. Plain and simple. If he was involved, he’s going to be punished for it.

By Bushwacker

July 18, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

I think you have it exactly right, the whole good kid impression that was shiwn to the public was all an act, heis now and always has been just another punk thug that had everyone fooled, he’s scum and if he’s convicted I hope he gets the same treatment as the dogs, hose him down and electricute his sorry butt.

By Bushwacker

July 18, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

I think you have it exactly right, the whole good kid impression that was shiwn to the public was all an act, heis now and always has been just another punk thug that had everyone fooled, he’s scum and if he’s convicted I hope he gets the same treatment as the dogs, hose him down and electricute his sorry butt.

By R

July 18, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

The only thing that is making me laugh about this horrible act is that the people who are trying to defend Vick becuase they believe that this charge placed against him is caused by racist Federal Prosectors don’t realize that if the shoe was on the other foot, Vick wouldn’t give a d#mn about them. For all those looking to stop racism, than might I suggest looking for and standing up for real people out in this world that need your support that truly are affected by racism and not multi-million dollar celebrities that can afford to go without your help. Stop wasting your time defending these rich idiots and go out and try to help those that need all the help they can get.

By Georgia still racist

July 18, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

You white people care more about dogs then the Iraqi and Afghan civillians being killed by the American military.

By Birddawg

July 18, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

I said it 2 years ago when he was drafted, but I thought it would come to be not because of Vick legal troubles but because he’s a better QB—-not better athlete—-better QB, than Vick: all this buzz about Culpepper is nuts. Atlanta has a great talent and Petrino/Blank/McKay are fools if they don’t see what they have in DJ Shockley, and DJ Shockley as starter=rear-ends in seats. Mark it down, DJ Shocley is starting for the Birds by the end of the season. If not, it will only be because of the Atlanta Brain Trust’s stupidity.

By Johnnie Cochran

July 18, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Damn. I sure wish I wasn’t dead.

By Falcon

July 18, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Michael Vick a potential criminal? Who didn’t see that coming? Michael/Marcus Vick are a bunch of thugs. If Arthur Blank couldn’t see that, what a terrible judge of character. I would be sincerely surprised if Blank didn’t think that something of this nature was bound to happen.

If Blank did know it, then it was all about selling tickets. Either way, Blank is an idiot for sticking with this guy. Yes, he sold tickets, and he could run like hell, but everyone knew that Michael Vick was only good enough to get us to the playoffs.

Whatever happens, I’m just glad that we’ll end up with another QB.

And thank you Arthur Blank for embarrassing the franchise and the city…and yourself.

By Roger

July 18, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank and Falcons officials,

As a former Atlanta resident, football fan and human being, I ask that you consider removing Michael Vick from the team. Although he has not yet been proven guilty, there is more than enough evidence at this point to suggest that he at least condoned - and observed - activities that are not only illegal, but abhorrent and contrary to human decency.

I realize that Vick represents a substantial investment. He is one of the league’s most recognizable faces. His departure would most likely mean a season of rebuilding.

All of these are valid points. However, when compared to animal cruelty that includes electrocution of a dog, none of those points matter. You cannot reconcile the murder of dozens of animals by pointing to the fact that you might lose millions of dollars.

Michael Vick must go. To keep him on the team would condone some of the most repellent animal abuse imaginable. It would signal to children - and adults - everywhere that there are no consequences for wanton cruelty.

It would make the Atlanta Falcons not only a laughingstock. but a symbol of all that’s wrong in professional sports. I have confidence, Mr. Blank, that you don’t want your valued organization to become one of the most reviled sports teams of all time.

Please do the right thing. Cut Michael Vick and show the world that integrity is more important than money.

By grilleth braums

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

Maria, without a doubt, your blog is got to be the most thoughtless and ignorant posting I have ever read in my life! Your logic astounds me. I’m glad that the rest of the citizens of planet Earth think differently.

Now correct me if I’m wrong, but did I read it correctly? Are you really suggesting that Michael Vick should not be held accountable simply because he has been humbled by the experience and because we are all imperfect humans? Regardless of guilt, if you had your way, would you really set him free? Perhaps we should apply your logic to other cases. I’m sure th