Sports Columnists

By Chris

July 26, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

its a shame that your predicting 5-11.

How was that? Good for a chuckle?

By Chris

July 26, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

I’m thinking 6-10. I think I’d be content with that.

Vick should do 1 year for every game we lose this year. Idiot.

By Spike007

July 26, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

I think 9-7, after Harrington loses 3 or 4 games DJ Shockley will let loose to save the day. GA to the rescue!

By Sum Dum Gye

July 26, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

My Falcons Pre-Season Prediction:

Marcus Vick will drive MV7’s WHITE FORD BRONCO in leading a massive police pursuit circling I-285 with Vick hanging out the back with a loaded gun in his mouth threatening suicide if he isn’t immediately cleared of all charges and re-instated as FALCONS quarterback for all the cops & cameras to see. Just as the BRONCO rolls over the Fulton County line, the vehicle suddenly hits a deep, infamous Fulton pothole. The gun discharges. BLAM!

Problem Solved.

Game Over.

Enjoy H@ll, Vick.

By Lerlene

July 26, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

I predict that the court will discover a record that Mike Vick gave those dogs Herpes and killed them in order to keep them quiet. You heard they found that rape-stand contraption at his house that he used on them dogs.

By Eugene

July 26, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

I am pretty sure that we are headed for a 4-12 season. We have a QB who needs a strong supporting cast. The lst time I checked we still hd Roddy White and Micheal Jenkins at wideout and a shaky O-Line and a suspect D-Line.. Let’s hope the season does not get to painful to quickly..

By Jimmy

July 26, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Harrington was one of the best college QB’s I’ve ever seen, and unfortunately, he’s never had an NFL opportunity until now. Please tell me who has ever succeeded at Detroit. That franchise could have ruined Manning’s career if he had of been drafted there. Miami, even Saban wanted to get out of there and Marino only went to one Super Bowl. No, this is Harrington’s first chance to have a team with talent, something Mike Vick was unable to feed on for the past 2 seasons. Remember 6-2 only to go 2-6 in 2004 and then last year, 5-3 to start but what 8-8 to finish. Mike was done long before this. Who wants to see 130 Million-Dollar man giving fans the finger, I’m sorry, both fingers?

By Rod

July 26, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Coach Bobby is a good quarterbacks coach, and Joey H was the #3 overall pick. I’m hoping that the Falcons come out with a chip on their shoulder, wanting to prove something. That being said, with part of our D hurt (Coleman and Williams), and no Kerney, I’m going 7-9.

By Carlton Powell

July 26, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

A real convoluted silver lining to the Vick saga may be that now, absent of any expectations for the upcoming season, the Falcons can begin to build a first-rate organization from the ground up. No gimmicks; no foolish hip hop stuff; but rather, the type of organization Dallas had with Tom Landry, San Francisco had with Bill Walsh, and Washington had with Gibbs I. Building such and organization will take time and PATIENCE. But, it can be done. Who knows, if such a change of attitude, and organization took place many of us who wrote the Falcons off many years ago might have their interest re-kindled. Sure couldn’t hurt anything. At best with Vick and a lot of breaks, the Falcons MIGHT have been a wild card,one playoff game selection, so there’s really not all THAT much more to lose.

By Eternal Optimist

July 26, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Probably 5 and 11. Though our offensive line has improved they don’t have any experience working as a unit and we will have some young guys on the line. On top of that Harrington is shell-shocked after years of getting beatin up in Detroit and he just doesn’t have the wheels that Vick has to evade the pressure. Add that to a young defense with a lot of holes and we ‘re in for a not-so-enjoyable season. Damn!Damn!Damn!!!!

By Honestly

July 26, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Honestly, I see at most 7 wins with this team. What you will see is better play calling and more consistency with everything. I just don’t think they can really get over this whole circus, but if they are going to do anything serious they do have the schedule to do so.

By UnHappyFan

July 26, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

I’d say 5 wins will be a great year or this team. We still don’t know what the fallout from the Vick mess is. Case in point- the Phoenix Sheriff says Vick is in his sights now.. Who knows where the mess created by the Face of the Falcons, the guy Blank worked for, will end up.

By Sam

July 26, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Whatever our record is will be acceptable to me as long as Vick is gone. With him, we were permanently limited by his inability to develop a passing game, for whatever reason. Now, at least we know we need a real NFL quarterback with a complete skill set. Whether Harrington is the answer, who knows. But we can only go up from here. I’m excited about the future.

By Singletary

July 26, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

This is going to be a long and painful season. I’m predicting 1 win against TB within our division and maybe three more otherwise. Most of our guys are just too new and all are working within a new system other than Chris.

I’d love to be surprised whether by a reappearance of Vick (to earn his way into a good trade after a plea bargain,) DJ stepping up, or the defense doing more than I think they can.

By falconfan

July 26, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

How about 3-13 with Harrington or 4-12 with Shockley.

By NCBravesFan

July 26, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

In one way, perhaps all this can work out for the long-term good. Petrino can come in and build his system from the ground up.

It’s not like the Falcons had really done much with Vick.

It’ll be painful to watch, but at least it’s starting over, instead of continuing with an obviously flawed person as the franchise “leader.”

So cut those ties Arthur B., and let’s set our sights on 2009. The signal it sends will have the Falcs playing their butts off this year … to a 7-9 record.

By Greg

July 26, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

With Vick 8-8. Without Vick 9-7. The reason being the recievers will be more involved because of the experience from last year. I think Petrino is the truth. Defense will be good. Offense will be ok. They will work hard and out hustle teams. This a trait of a Petrino team. No playoffs but we will have a winning season.

By Noodles is My Slave Name

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

Since you asked, Mark…..

I believe the team will go 10-6. Joey Harrington is not a great PRO quarterback, but at least he IS a quarterback. Vick was (Yes, was.) a great athlete but certainly not a PRO-caliber quarterback.

This team will be far more solid, if not “exciting,” without the cancerous Vick than it would have ever been with him.

p.s. I judged Vick on both his QB ‘skillz’ as well as the content of his charactr (or lack thereof) and found him….lacking in each department. Who will be today’s first hate-filled, illogical simpleton on here to brand me a “hater” and/or “racist” for simply stating a less-than-stellar opinion of Mike V?

ONWARD & UPWARD, FALCONS!

By Eternal Optimist

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

Jimmy, that sounds like some wishfull thinking to me. Dog Vick all you want, but he gave the Falcons what they didn’t have since the mid 90’s, “a chance to win and respectability”. I want defend what he may have done but the guy was a good player for the Falcons. And you even have to know that he wasn’t flippin off our fans, it was the visiting team. I was sitting right there. They were giving the guy a hard time, we got our a* kicked and I guess he lost it. It would be a mistake if we let this guy get away. If he doesn’t get any time he should be suspended for maybe 4 games and come back. This thing could still turn around. I know alot of you don’t want to hear this, but I think that if at all possible we should ride this thing out. This may be the life changing event that Vick needed to wake his a// up….

By caveman22

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

I’m thinking 12-4. Harrington gets a good start, fades in mid season, and DJ steps in a rolls the Falcons into the playoffs. It’s the feel good story of the season!!

Or I could be HIGH!!

By Wiley

July 26, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

The Falcon’s players will show their support of Vick at Harrington’s expense much the same as did when Johnson replaced the injured Vick several years ago. Make it 0-16.

By jay

July 26, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

I guess I’ll be the optimistic here……….Falcons will be 12-4 for the season

By Chrono

July 26, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Mark, I think Schaub is no better than Harrington. Schaub will appear to succeed because any improvement for the Texans will be labeled success. And I think Harrington will perform better than anyone thinks because he thankfully has Petrino and his staff coaching him/team instead of Mora and his staff.

With Vick I was predicting a 10-6 season. I thought the Falcons would be more than the sum of their parts. With Harrington, I’m predicting 8-8. I’d have said the same thing with Schaub. Regardless of how well Harrington plays, he can’t elevate the team (nor could Schaub). Vick was no leader, but players believed with Vick and his amazing legs in the game there’s always a chance to win. Can Harrington replace that with true leadership? Maybe, but only enough for 8-8.

By Willie Jacks

July 26, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Joey Harrington can throw the football, but needs to be protected. He also needs to make better decisions. Bill Musgrave is just the answer for his decision-making and I think our beefed up offensive line is going to make #7 wish he was on the field taking snaps instead of huddling with attorneys. Petrino will be up to the task in modifying his offensive system and we now have offensive weapons now in Jerious Norwood, Alge Crumpler, Joe Horn, and Laurent Robinson. Look for a breakout season on offense, point-wise.

The defense may be a little porous initially, but they will gel as the season progresses. Look for Grady Jackson, Keith Brooking, and Lawyer Milloy to set the tone on defense. My thoughts are that the Atlanta Falcons are going to be stunners by going 9-7. They will not, however, make it to the playoffs due to an upgraded NFC South (New Orleans, Tampa Bay, and Carolina have all made significant improvements over the offseason).

That’s my opinion and I’m stickin’ to it! Go Falcons!

By Jim

July 26, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

As unpredictable as the NFL is these days, who the heck knows? I mean honestly…who would have thought New Orleans would have been the juggernaut that they were last year…..and then have Pittsburg go in the pooper? I think the Falcons will be any where from dreadful to pretty dang good (10-6 maybe). Maybe Joey Harrington will finally get it together. We shall see. But I’m an avid deer hunter so I have better things to do in the Fall anyway…..I’ll only pay attention to the Falcons if they are competitive.

By Buck

July 26, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

If Vick is suspended for the season (minus due process) I sincerely hope the Falcons lose every game this year, including pre-season and as well as scrimmages, etc. Then all you Jethro-Bodines (see Freeman, Marvin) will finally get your wish.

By BCR

July 26, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

0-16

By dr soul

July 26, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

The first half of the season will be a struggle…new coach, new schemes, new people, prevailing cloud from media, etc.., but, I think with Petrino and Harrington (who has the skills and with a good coach and confidence) we may just see a turnaround in the second half and some jelling.. I am going to go with the 9-7..this is just the type of situation where there is more given from the team to show that everyone is wrong about them.. may be an anomaly to most people, but stranger things have happened.. there may be some who also want to show that this is really not a ‘one-man’ team.. let’s just sit back, enjoy, but also support this group.. lot of black clouds to play through and a great fan base is always good for an extra win or two…

By reebok

July 26, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

If we had the Dog Killer in the lineup, we’d go 7-9 and miss the playoffs. Without him, we’ll go 5-11 and miss the playoffs. Vick will never take another snap for the Falcons.

By Mark Bradley

July 26, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

So far we’ve got everything from 12-4 to 0-16. I’d call that a wide range of opinions. I haven’t seen 16-0 yet, though.

By Gary P

July 26, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

You’re right to assume that Vick is gone but your Falcons won’t be as good with or without your starting QB:

W/Vick - 7-9 same as last year. You’re right to assume there is more talent this year than last, but with Vick learning a new offense that depended more more on his decision making ability (gads!), I’d have to say your prediction of 9-7 seems generous.

w/o Vick - 3-13. This is a throwback to the year June Jones benched Jeff George doing the right thing and ultimately costing June his job (still love him for that). I always looked at that as a good life lesson: A man does the right thing knowing that it will cost him his job and ends up gainfully employed in Hawaii! We should all be so lucky.

By CJ2

July 26, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

3-13 with Harrington. 3-13 with Shockley. 3-13 with Marcus Vick. 3-13 with Dante Culpepper. 3-13 with Steve Bartkowski.

By sathefari

July 26, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

With Michael “I give up during games” Vick, the Falcons go 6-10.

With anyone else playing QB, the falcons go 9-7.

I really hope the falcons have a winning season so we can forget about this loser QB Vick.

By Falcon follower

July 26, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

It’s sad that people can’t answer a simple question without bashing Vick before hearing the defense. We live in a society where whatever the media says or allegations written it must be the gospel truth. Mark, I think we could win 7 or 8 games with Harrington because the NFC is not that great, however the defenses can blitz with ease now. Joey did win some in Miami. Having Vick I would say 10 or 11 games because the defenses still have to prepare for if he leaves the pocket. Petrino offense was going to be geared toward his throwing strength as was Dan Reeves offense. Under Dan’s offense we moved the ball more on offense from Vick’s arm strength going down field, bootlegs and power running aka Petrino.

By Lee

July 26, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Look, I am a DAWG fan… so this may seem impartial… but DJ played good in the preseason last year, and I could definitely be more excited about DJ than I could Harrington. Play DJ and win 8 games.

By Milton

July 26, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

With everything that has happen concerning Mike Vick and the spotlight that the whole Falcon’s organization is now facing. The Falcons Players and Coaches now know they have to step-up and show Atlanta and the rest of the league that Mike Vick is a player for the falcons but he’s not the team. Get your new starter at QB ready. I know Joey H. is a veteran, I would have chosen Shockley, because is hungry he know’s the system the players know him and he’s “Georgia”

By Bonnie

July 26, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Mark: I think you are very clever and I enjoy your column. But really, who gives a f—k about the Falcons and their record…

By John

July 26, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

When I first got the schedule, I thought 10-6. Now I’m more like 8-8. I wish Petrino would open up the QB competition and let DJ have a chance to win the job.

By tj

July 26, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

There is no way to know for sure, but I say the record will be better with Harrington than it would with Vick. And would be even better if we still had Matt Schaub. Boy did this outfit screw up. Hopefuuly we will now see something that looks like an NFL offence, not a gimmick, planned around a QB who was nothing more than a runner. The best thing I’ve heard from Petrino about Harrington is how jumps in and learns, and he is very intelligent. Now that is a big change.

By Donny Turnout

July 26, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

So Bradley you’re saying Vick gives us four wins all by himself? No way. Learn the game of football my friend, this is a team sport. MV’s failure to pass the ball, to get his guys involved, would mean LESS wins.

Harrington has already proven he’s better than Vick. More yards in less time. More TDs in 2004. He is a better fit for Petrino’s offense. Joey means better stats for the WRs and Alge. And last time Joey was in Atlanta - he beat Vick. Remember?

8-8 this year if the guys don’t listen to the many bashers like you, and allow it to affect team morale. Of course the same fans who made excuses for MV, will now pick on every mistake from Harrington. Go Falcons!!

By Rock

July 26, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

We will be 3 and 13 unless Vick comes back. I would love to see the reaction on Atlanta fans faces when Mike is found not guilty and he’s picked up by Tampa and ends up winning the super bowl.

By Morris

July 26, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are in complete disarray from the owner down with a huge funk hanging over their collective heads. They will be dogged - literally - everywhere they go this season. Some players feel Vick is being treated unfairly. Others think that Vick has let them down. Some want him back while others don’t. If he does come back then the atmosphere will only get worse. Forget the record. These guys have already been beaten for the year.

By Boots

July 26, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

From my perspective, it doesn’t matter whether Vick is guilty or innocent. His poor judgement has virtually decimated an NFL franchise.

For his stupidity, if for no other reason, he should be ditch —- and the team will go on. Whatever the record, it’s better without Vick.

By Willie Jacks

July 26, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

You know—I forgot about D.J. Shockley! If Harrington goes down or is incapable of leading early, D.J. will step in. Shock is mobile, has an arm, and has leadership skills to boot.

He could lead the team to some unlikely victories and I could see the team going 11-5 and actually making the playoffs as a wild card team. If this scenario were to play out, #7 would be done in Atlanta for sure.

By NASCARfan

July 26, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

I don’t get the love affair in the media and the fanbase with Matt FRAUD. What’s he ever accomplished on the field of football? Not a g-damn thing! Look, until the idictment, I was a Vick fan, now I hope he burns in hell. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to lose all common sense and jump on the Matt FRAUD bandwagon.

The guy did NOTHING!!! His one big game (a loss, by the way) was against the depleted Patriots defense, which was ranked 31st against the pass at that time. He’s never won a game he’s started, finished, or played in. He couldn’t beat the Eagles THIRD STRING DEFENSE, throwing two very bad passes which were interception, and had another two sure interceptions dropped by the third string safety.

Matt FRAUD was nothing. He’ll be a servicable NFL QB, I’m sure. He won’t be better than Trent Dilfer. He won’t be better than Trent Green. He won’t be better than Jeff Hostetler, or Brad Johnson, two more servicable QBs which won Super Bowls.

Matt FRAUD should be a QB along the lines of a Jon Kitna or a Don Majikowski or a Tommy Maddux. He won’t win his teams any games, and might actually lose his teams a few.

After watching Vick get sent to jail, my favorite part of this next football season will be watching Matt FRAUD get destroyed in Houston, watching and reading how all of you idiots in media and fandom try to explain how your Great White Hype could have been so overrated.

Joey Harrington is going to have a far better year than Matt FRAUD… book it!

By Bird Backer

July 26, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

10-6 with Vick 4-12 without - I think an 0-3 start will set the tone for the season. season starts with two road games (Minn & Jax) then Carolina. We might be able to beat Houston at home but you know how the Falcons fare in games they “should” win

By CL

July 26, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Without Vick, how about blacked out games on cable because they didn’t sell enough tickets. Yes ticket sales matter espically when it comes to sponsorship and TV ratings. Just be prepared to watch highlights or whatever they will be on sportscenter or at halftime during other games. without Vick 2-14 with 11-5

By sirlaughalot

July 26, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

i thank your write. his absense will have a affect on the team. i wood say 5-11 with Harrington or 7-9 with Shockley. its gonna be along season, but i can pass the time workin on my latest book.

By NASCARfan

July 26, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah, with Vick I say 11-5.

Without Vick I say either 10-6 ot 9-7, good enough for a wild card.

Matt FRAUD in Houston? 4-12, easy.

By Vic - Town

July 26, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

With Vic = 10-6 With Joey =6-10 Blank still has love for Vic and he will still be on this team b/c he keeps the seats full. The only other Falcon that kept the seats full was Prime Time. Money rules the world!!!!!!

By jp

July 26, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

With Vick, 11-5; without Vick, 8-8. Vick brings an element that forces defenses to make mistakes. As for being a good quarterback, he showed against both Cincinatti and Pitsburg (last season)that he can do it and do it well. With the weapons available to him now (joe horn & revamped offensive line), Vick would have had a monster season. Players also believe if they can keep it close, Vick can do something magical to pull off a win. I pray that despite being human that Vick gets his life together. I pray that people will stop being judgemental and allow due process for this member of our team.

By David

July 26, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

If Petrino is as brilliant as everyone thinks, he will recognize the talent, intelligence and character of D.J. Shockley and give him the chance he deserves. Shockley has a strong and accurate arm, swift feet, and he is smart enough to know which one to use. He also has the character and leadership needed by the Falcons in this time of crisis.

By g.g. mitchell

July 26, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

What message is Vick sending to young men still in school? He does the dog fighting for enjoyment and entertainment.killing dogs is fun for him. He is disgusting and should be kicked out of the NFL The Falcons will survive without him and gain the respect of the sporting world by standing up and having a spine to do what is right. Get rid of Vick now!!!

By Matt Yoder

July 26, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Actually, my optimistic gut feeling is that “NOW” the doors have finally been opened to real success on the part of the Falcons, now that this whole Hip Hop gangsta theme is GONE! Gone! Thank God! I knew things were going way to far when I saw Ludacris doing his thing “halftime” Falcons/Cowboys game in December.This is Football people! Nothing else! I am looking forward to a very good season, I think if Coach Petrino can put Louisville’s football program on the right track I feel he definitly has more than enough talent to get it done with this team. I am hoping that Shockley gets his chance through all of this! My prediction for this season 10-6… Go FALCONS!!!!

By jay

July 26, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

I do want to make a correction….Earlier I predicted a 12 and 4 record………My apologies, I thought we were talking about the NY GIANTS !!……..My bad.

By huh

July 26, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Yea your right Donny. Harrington also has thrown more interceptions than Vick in less time and lost more games than Vick oh he has also won less games than Vick so your argument is pointless. This team doesnt win no more than 6 games this year. I really dont get how people think all of a sudden Joey Harrington will be any good. This guy makes more bad decisions than Vick. Its only so long people can blame the Lions for his failures. It’s amazing to me that people are making up all kinds of excuses for Harringont but when people point out the bad o line terrible defense and horrible wr’s for Vick then they are just trying to cover for him. Say what you want but even with all the problems the Falcons have had Vick gave this team the best chance to win. Name the last person from the offensive line to make the pro bowl for the falcons? Who was the last wr to make the pro bowl for the falcons? I dont want to hear he cant pass crap because when he played for Reees guys like Trevor Gaylor had no problems catching the ball. In fact the no name lowly drafted wr’s Vick had when he played for Reeves caught the ball better than our first round picks. This team wont do anything this year and you can bet on it. The defense will be on the field all day because Joey will be constantly turning the ball over or running for his life because this line is not very good at pass blocking. I like our young guys on defense but I doubt this horrible pass defense will be much improved from last year. Jimmy Williams is adjusting to his new position so if Chris Crocker is back there you can bet on this team being gashed by big plays again. I hate to break it to the one blogger but the NFC south is strong. I think Tampa Bay and Carolina will be a lot better and its no need to talk about the Saints because they will be just as good as last year in my opinion. We will finish last in the NFC SOUTH.

By Boots

July 26, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Some of you guys are so freakin’ stupid or logic impaired that forming a rational statement is impossible ie. comparing Patrick Kerney with Michael Vick.

Vick is a millstone around the neck of this franchise and the sooner he is released the better for all concerned.

Coach killer, team killer, franchise killer!

By BCR

July 26, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

I predict that Atlanta won’t have a football team in 5 years. Forget Vick, Atlanta is going to be the downfall of the Falcons. Civil war, the “Hip-Hop” culture vs. the “Good Ol’ Boys”. What a shame. Now that is the real embarrassment of the city of Atlanta. Can’t we all just get along?

By Analog

July 26, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Let’s see:

Wins against Min, Jax, Car (x2), Hou, TB (x2), StL, NO, TB, and Arz Losses against Tenn, NYG, NO, Ind and Sea

Going 5-1 in the division gives the Birds a playoff birth if not the div title.

By Ron Roberts

July 26, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I think folks underestimate Joey Harrington, and given that this is a first-year situation for (another) new offense, I don’t think Harrington would be any more confused than Vick would’ve been. Vick not being allowed to camp is a blessing, as Joey will get the majority of snaps with the first-team offense.

Let’s not forget, though, that the T E A M is full of capable players on both sides of the ball. John Abraham, Rod Coleman, Keith Brooking, DeAngelo Hall, Grady Jackson, Lawyer Milloy, Demorrio Williams, and Jimmy Williams are a darn good place to start, defensively. Health and depth will be what matters more, here.

On offense, we’ve bulked up at the line, still feature two speedy backs in Warrick Dunn and Jerious Norwood, and will feature a full compliment of receivers, with Horn, Roddy White, Michael Jenkins (who I don’t think has gotten his due - he’s coming along nicely, if you ask me) and Alge Crumpler a the TE spot. The QB is the most important position on offense, and yeah, Harrington’s been awful, but he’s been awful on awful football teams, too, and let’s not forget a guy named Steve Young was awful once - on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

We hired a head coach who’s job it was year-in, year-out, to take inexperienced QBs and make ‘em good. He did that, time and again, and I don’t see why he wouldn’t be able to do that with a skilled Harrington, especially with the immensity of tools at their disposal.

Now the schedule; it’s favorable early, which could create a momentum effect for us. It’s important to get out to a good early start, frankly.

Week 1: at Minnesota———WINNABLE

Week 2: at Jacksonville—-TOSS UP

Week 3: CAROLINA—————TOSS UP

Week 4: HOUSTON——————WINNABLE

Week 5: at Tennessee———TOSS UP

Week 6: NY GIANTS—————-LOSS

Week 7: at New Orleans———LOSS

Week 8: SAN FRANCISCO———-WIN

Week 9: at Carolina————-LOSS

Week 10: TAMPA BAY—————WIN

Week 11: INDIANAPOLIS———-LOSS

Week 12: at St. Louis———-LOSS

Week 13: NEW ORLEANS————WIN

Week 14: at Tampa Bay———-WIN

Week 15: at Arizona————-LOSS

Week 16: SEATTLE——————LOSS

So I think we’re a 9-7 team, best-case scenario. The home losses I’m predicting to Seattle and the Giants aren’t games we can’t win, but those are loaded teams who’ll probably have plenty to play for, themselves. It’d be nice to upset ‘em, but snaring one would make us playoff-caliber.

I’ll make an optimistic 8-8 prediction.

FYI, I talked with former Falcons QB Bobby Hebert yesterday (we work in the same building) and he said that Falcons radio guy David Archer said Harrington looked pretty bad in mini-camp, though, so who knows. I think it’d be hard for any QB to look sharp in mini-camp in their first shot with a new team coming into the first year of a new head coaches’ scheme, too.

Like I said, Bobby Petrino, as a college coach, had to rebuild at key positions every season, so it’s not like he’s unfamiliar with it. And he’s taken mid-range college QBs and made ‘em good, and quick. Joey Harrington is a skilled thrower, and comes with a higher completion percentage than our last starting QB. If he can read defenses better and avoid stupid mistake-INTs, I don’t see why this team couldn’t excel.

By U predict

July 26, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

I predict Fal-Canned will get canned and post a 0-16 record…. VIck will never play for Fal-Canned again. Bring back Schaub. Petrino ain’t no Reaves. Petrino can’t even tell Vick to wipe his arse off.

By Tony

July 26, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

I think that Joey Harrington’s throwing stats are BETTER than Vicks. Not by much, but we might be better off with Harrington anyway. Vick was fun to watch, and certainly sold tickets, but we just could not get past over the hump. So, I say GO FALCONS and DUMP VICK. Whatever the record turns out to be, I will be watching every game, as always, and hoping for a win!

By 1mansopinion

July 26, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

After the WR start catching the righthanded spin of JH, the Offense is actually a potent weapon with Patrino’s imagination and with some help from the Defense and a soft schedule I say they can do 8-8. But I’m an optimist and the Ga Dome is still a morgue.

By Alex

July 26, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

The falcons will have a record of 3-13. Joey Harrington as the “declared” starter is the biggest joke ever. What happened to competing for the starting position? Blank and Petrino are showing everybody early on that they are out of touch with reality.

By No Dawgs Here

July 26, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

I agree with you on this one. 5-11 I like the Falcons. I like the new coach. However; new coach = new system. A new system that is being built while turmoil is going on. It just doesn’t look good. Too much adversity to overcome. Too many taleted teams in the NFL. Give the Falcons a few years to get the program together fans. They’ll be back.

By Mike-Tuscaloosa

July 26, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

9-7 with Vick

10-6 With Harrington

I think Harrington fits better with what Pertrino wants to do…He has the arm and accuracy when given time to throw…Obviously, I think he is more intelligent and will catch on our new system faster than Vick would have…

Peace

By Bushwacker

July 26, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

WITH VICK : 0-6 defenses have him figured out and even before the dogcrap hit the fan he has lost his teamates, replaced week 7 with a real QB, DJ finishes 10-0, for a 10-6 record.

Without Vick, 13-3 Harrington 0-3 DJ 13-0.

I know its alittle early in the day to be drinking but remember, that’s how we survived the first 35 years of the franchise!

By a fan

July 26, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

The falcons will go 3-13 without Vick! I dont know what most fans have been smoking/ snorting.....MV has been the reason Atlanta has had any kind off offensive cohesiveness last year. The guy gave his all each game and know we will see what happens without him....The offensive line will DESTROY Harrington! I sit here amazed that MV continues to get blamed for dropped passes and crappy defense! This is a defense where Carolina refused to pass against and still crucified the Falcons...yet MV got blamed for that....DJ Shock should be cautious...I wonder how long it will take before "attitudes" change about him? Fans that didnt want MV have their wish….now it`s time to DEAL with it! The Falcons are crap now and I hope they lose every game…….WITH AN EMPTY STADIUM! I wonder how many games will be blacked out on TV!

By BCR

July 26, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

You forgot a couple of things Boots, seat filler and money maker.

By LJ

July 26, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

For all you guys out there hoping and praying the falcons have a winning chance. Sorry to inform you without Vick you guys would not have a reason to even be discussing the falcons team. Take Vick out of the conversation it would probably go something like this. Does Atlanta still have a football team? Remember when the falcons never made tv. Stop kidding yourselfs.

By Deal

July 26, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

This may be the best thing that could have happened for the true Falcon fans. I say we ride on decent seasons for the next couple of years and do what we have to do for the #1 pick when Stafford comes out and see what Petrino can do with his cannon. And as long as the D holds their own Joey leads us to a 8-8 or a 7-9 season. And we get a chance at drafting Darren McFadden out of Arkansas and make that our new college of choice for a while instead of Beamer products that never fully let their past behind.

By Not Joey

July 26, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

If Vick did it he needs to burn in hell, but if he didn’t do it then we are already screwed for the year. I’d say 11-5 with Vick because of the overall upgrades and 6-10 with Joey because that was pretty much his record every where else he played. With Shockley I’d say 5-11, but he has a lot more up side in coming years then Joey.

By Freddy K.

July 26, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

With or without Vick doesn’t matter. They are all talented professionals. I think Vick’s law breaking behind should be band from professional sports. THe Falcon’s will be better off. I think they will have a winning season, just because the can and yes they are that damn good.

By The Very Essence of Taste and Sophistication

July 26, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

According to the Vick-heads, the Falcons must somehow find a way to carry on without a QB who is a combination of Joe Montana, Steve Young, Troy Aikman, Terry Bradshaw, and Martin Luther King, Jr.

Puh-lease.

In reality, Vick is/was the most overrated/overhyped player in recent NFL history. His team’s record over the last two seasons is a testament to his mediocrity.

The Vick-heads say: But our lord and savior won a playoff game at Lambeau!

I say: So did a team coached by Mike Tice.

The Vick-heads say: But our lord and savior is the winningest QB in Falcon history!

I say: Isn’t that kind of like being the world’s tallest midget?

Vick is/was a great runner, but a poor-to-mediocre passer. That combination may win a championship in the Big East, but it won’t get the job done in the NFL - despite the cries of the Vick-heads who ramble on and on about how their lord and savior is/was “changing the way QB is played in the NFL”.

Sorry, folks, but when it comes to QBing an NFL team, intelligence and leadership are MUCH more important than a fast time in the 40. (For proof, see Brady, Tom, and Manning, Peyton.)

Based on the past several seasons, no truly objective observer would describe Vick as being an intelligent player, or possessing any leadership qualities.

The bottom line is that the Vick-heads hitched their wagon to someone who is an average NFL QB and, according to the Federal government, a miserable human being. The fact that they are now deserting the Falcons reveals all you need to know about these sad, pathetic people.

BTW, Mark, to answer YOUR question, the Falcons will go 7-9.

P.S. What’s the over/under on how much time Vick will do IF he’s convicted? I say two years.

By Jay

July 26, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

I’m trying to find compassion for Vick, but we all make choices that demand we deal with the results. We live in days full of this stuff… bad…but I think there are a
good number of quality guys on the team…they need time to gel as a unit, but the new staff and draft makes me think 9-7, maybe playoffs. Go Falcons!

By DE Falcon Fan

July 26, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

It comes down to timing. Yeah, if this situation had gone down months ago, we could have drafted another QB, or traded for one. However, no one has any faith in Harrington. That is a shame. In his senior season at Oregon, he threw for 2,415 yards and 23 touchdowns, and he finished his college career with a 25-3 record.

Trust me, I know college ain’t the pros, but who here has not wondered if a college team could give Detroit a run for its money. He was thrown to the wolves as a Lion. The Dolphins situation was not much better. This is a different time.

I truly believe if the players and fans give him a chance, and back him up, Harrington will have a great year. He has made mistakes in the past. He has also done some really good things. Why don’t we try to back the team we have, and trust that the new coaching staff is not the old one, and they know what they are doing.

Sometimes, being a fan means having faith, even if you don’t know how you could. In this case, we have a QB with experience, learning the offense from the begining of training camp. He is not being tossed into a NFL camp out of college for the first time to save a frnachise. He is not replacing a starter midseason. He is the starter and will have the entire preseason to get it together.

If we all stop complaining, and start supporting, the Falcons go 11-5.

By rob2595

July 26, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

8-8

By wtf

July 26, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Can someone explain to me how we are going to be a better team with Joey Harrington? He has been horrible his whole career so now all of a sudden he will be good? WOW. To the person who went through the schedule and was predicting wins. Well your way off. We wont beat the Saints , San Fran, Tampa Bay , probably not the Vikings. We will win around 5 or 6 games. We still have a horrible pass defense and Joey Harringon will throw a lot of interceptions.

By HA HA WHO CARES

July 26, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

I HOPE ATLANTA GET THE QB THEY WANT AND I HOPE THEY LOSE ALL THEIR GAMES.

By me

July 26, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

This is funny. Last year, there were people upset about having a losing season. This season, a losing record is acceptable. Somebody please explain how that happens.

By John P

July 26, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Mark,

 I predict it will take the Falcons three to four years before becoming good enough again to reach the playoffs. Our new coach will find the NFL extremely difficult. He could very easily end up like Saban or Spurier and return to college coaching after losing so many games. The Falcons will win 3 to 5 games this year by default. A bottom feeder team is garanteed to hit the field in 07! Blank will be on the sidelines nursing wounds and mending broken hearts.

By Shep

July 26, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Let’s see…we won 7 games WITH Vick last year, so you figure his presence accounted for at least three of those wins so I’ll go with 4-12. Maybe it will be high enough to draft another QB.

By Who Cares

July 26, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

The Falcons weren’t too hot with Vick and they will definitely suck without him. Michael Vick is the reason people watched the Falcons play in the first place.

By nola

July 26, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

I would be happy with 7-9, however the reality is more like 6-10, and that is with very good coaching, and few injuries.

By Beethoven Underdog

July 26, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

I know the mini-cap has been a circus but keeping Vick away actually helps.

For Harrington, we know he hasn’t done that well BUT he played for a team that USC could have beat during his days there and WE ALL KNOW that. Plus he ran for his life with that terrible offensive line they had. So I am trying to keep positive spin on this and hopefully he could be a workingman’s Kurt Warner. One thing for sure he can read a defense better than Vick which is KEY for a QB in this league.

As for our defense we should be a lot better than we were last year. Chris Houston is either going to be very good or mediocre…I am going that he is going to be very good.

Running game will be improved with Norword getting more touches.

Petrino as you said will do a good job coaching…we will see how he makes adjustments during the half that will be a huge key on how well he does.

Don’t give up hope yet folks because look a the Rams back in ‘99 they won the Superbowl and the year before they were 4-12. IN the NFL anything can happen so let’s see and quit being so DOOM AND GLOOM

Go Falcons!

By fayncdawg

July 26, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Yo spike, as you can see by my name, I would definitely love a scenerio that involves DJ rescuing this team. As a matter of fact, that scenerio becoming reality is the only way this franchise does not become the laughing stock of the NFL (or the SEC or ACC for that matter!) This team is BAD and BORING, especially with the likelihood of Vick never playing a down for this team ever again! The W-L record is irrelevent! What matters is that 30,000 fools might actually show up to watch a BAD AND BORING TEAM. So I propose to all bloggers: forget predicting the W-L! Let’s predict what the average attendence will be. I submit my prediction; 29,450. Oh yeah my other prediction; GT’s average attendance will be higher than the Falcons! Heck Duke, Ole Miss, and Miss. State will probably have a higher average attendance than the Falcons!

By BCR

July 26, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Oh well, after this year I guess I will have to listen to the Falcons games on the radio, just like the good ol’ days. Now that’s the Falcons that I remember. Good luck Mike and I hope these allegations are far from the truth, but if they aren’t, who are we to judge you. He who is without sin……

By Casey

July 26, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

16-0, baby!!

By bucko

July 26, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

ENTERNAL OPTIMIST do you have the same morals that vick does it is not right to flip anyone off. vick is been nothing but an embarrsement and distraction to the falcons ever since he has been a falcons player. never playing for the falcons is welcome

By me

July 26, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

6-10 I think the real problem will be with the defense this year. I expect several high scoring games. I think it will be a better year, and more fun with out Vick and his element of fans.

By Hank

July 26, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Since Vick was next to last in QB to receiver receptions last year, whats to lose? He sure doen’ty play like one of the leagues highest paid players. Vick is grossly overrated but his crew likes the hip hop thug image, but then again, it’s his crew, what do you expect?

By Mr. Gilley

July 26, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Since the question for the blog is stated, I will follow the guidelines. Mark Bradley, you’re a very comical guy and thanks for being OBJECTIVE like a true journalist should at least in this blog. But I digress, I think the a revamped Vick with a chip on his shoulder and a reliable receiver would have gotten the Falcons to a 10-6 record. He probably would have missed a game or two as usual and it would have been the reason the Falcons were not in first in the NFC South. Since the city has turned on Mr. Vick and he is facing charges, I think the Falcons are doomed and I actually feel sorry for the players who fans don’t understand the importance of Vick at the center, despite his inaccurate throwing at times and his image. With JOEY HARRINGTON AT QB, I predict a 6 or 7 game season with the defense winning half of the games by scoring. Also, I predict the running game won’t be number one anymore, because Vick was the key reason we were number one anyway. So it’s gonna be a tough season guys and I am officially rooting for the Cowboys and Terrell Owens, another arrogant (clean record but hated) superstar who the media is waiting on to mess up.

By Josh44

July 26, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

HOW ABOUT THE FALCONS SHOULD LOSE OUT THIS YEAR AND NEXT YEAR IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE #1 OVERALL PICK IN 2009….THEN THEY CAN START ALL OVER FRESH WITH……..MATT STAFFORD!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Lifelong Falcons Fan

July 26, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

I have been a Falcons fan for since I was a child. Therefore the objective answers regardless of who was the quarterback should be 5-11.

There’s a new sheriff in town bring an new offense & defense. The team will need time to adjust to Petrino’s system as well as Zimmer’s.

Now look at the division they’re in - Saints, Bucs, & Panthers - they will be luck to win 2 games as there is a decent chance 2 or all 3 teams shuold be in the play off hunt this year.

Then they play from the AFC - - Jacksonville, Houston, Tennessee, and Indianapolis - - They will be lucky to win 2 games; more than likely only 1. Jax & Indy will be playoff type teams, Houston will be geeked up by Matt Schaub

Lastly their NFC games - Minnesota, NY Giants, San Francisco, St Louis, Arizona, & Seattle - - (3 of which are road games) should end up 2 wins there.

It isn’t gogin to be a pretty season to watch the 16 games season this year. At least they should have a decent draft slot for next year.

By midnite

July 26, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

The 2007 season is gonna be a thrilla. Because we no longer have #7 the coach killa.

12-4 I’d like to predict as poor li’l Mikey may become a convict.

8-0 will be the record at the Dome, as thousands of bandwagon fans stay home.

You had it made in Atlanta Ookie, this time you have really stepped in dookey.

The 2007 playoffs the Birds will make, as you plead with the feds to give you a break.

Over a year a fourth quarter pass not complete, now Joey and DJ have taken your seat.

Now on to a winning season coach Petrino and staff so the true Falcons fans may have the last laugh.

Just having some fun y’all!

By Juno1977

July 26, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Someone in here said Harrington is worst than Shaub. Shaub is an unproven back-up, and he’s not going to win in Houston. The price you pay of being a high pick is that you go to one of the worse teams. He is a good QB and I think this will be his first year to really prove that. The birds will go 9-7 make the playoffs and win a wildcard game before the season comes to an end.

By Eternal Optimist

July 26, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Bucko, Imagine me flipping you off right now. Hey, I didn’t say it was right, just that it happens. I guess you’ve never been in 5 oclock traffic huh!!!

By wesley

July 26, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

I’m saying 9-7. Harrington’s not a bad qb. Just been with the worst teams and bad coaches his whole career. Anybody remember Oregon??? The people wanting DJ to start are just die-hard UGA fans that don’t know the first thing about the NFL!

By TIFF

July 26, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Mr Bradley, 4 Wins for the Falcons this season, and that’s being generous. A lot of people are saying “If Arthur Blank keep Vick, the Falcons will lose my support”. You are all a bunch of lying hippocrites, you will come to as many games as you did last year “NONE”. So stop playing on the sympathy of Arthur Blank, he’s to smart for that. Someone posted yesterday that if the Falcons keep Vick they will never shop at Home Depot again. Get a life, because the one you got ain’t working. Vick was exciting and that’s why people packed the dome. I honestly love the whole Falcons team, but without Vick this team won’t be worth watching. So give the man his day in court, if he is guilty let him be punished, if not lets play some football.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Without VICK I really don’t care. No matter how hard I try to support the team the fans of Atlanta will find a way to drag down the team and everything around. Not to mention the lack of support from the media especially the AJC….

By mathusala

July 26, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

your an idiot

I will say 4-12

By Hamilton

July 26, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Yes, Harrington was the #3 overall pick, but that means NOTHING. Heck, Ryan Leaf was the #2 pick in his draft.

By jt

July 26, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

no predictions here. My optimist side says we have brought in the best biggest fullback in football blocking for Norwood or Dunn. We have a quarterback with a higher lifetime rating than the one we lost. We finally have a good receiver in Horn. I think it is up to the offensive line and coaching. They could be a big surpise. ( or really suck )

By marc

July 26, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

The falcs might have had a terrible off-season. However, I don’t think we’re that bad of a shape. We have a great coaching on offense (Petrino & Jackson)…Jackson worked magic in Cincy w/ Ocho Cinco, TJ & Henry….he can make it work here. Zimmer on defense working with D Hall, Houston, Anderson, Abraham, Big Grady…we have weapons on both sides of the ball

With that said….I predict 9-7 w/ a playoff appearance; anything under that is a dissapointment.

By Jason

July 26, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

If the Falcons win more than 4 games this season I’ll be very surprised. Look at it this way: they have SIGNIFICANT question marks at EVERY position except 1) tight end; and 2) linebackers. Significant questions about the coaching staff too—I like Petrino, but the track record of college coaches in the NFL is shaky at best.

This has the makings of a long, long year.

By BCR

July 26, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Why do people keep bringing up Matt Stafford? Oh yeah, this is Bulldog country. I wonder how many games they are going to win this year?

By Brian

July 26, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Harrinton will finally live up to the potential of the #3 pick and lead the Falcons to a 11-5 record and NFC South championship. An offensive guru like Petrino and an excellent QB coach like Musgrave will turn Harrington into an excellent pocket passer. If Petrino and Musgrave were supposedly going to be able to turn Vick into a great QB imagine what they can do with a real QB. I think we will finally see it was not all the receivers fault. When the ball is thrown where it is supposed to be then it can be caught. As big of a UGA fan as I am, Shock is just ready to be an NFL QB.

By russ

July 26, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Actually, Julius Peppers went number two after David Carr…I thought 9-7 before and I think 6-10 now.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Harrington as the starter…be prepared Falcons fans, be prepared. As a transplant now living in the Atlanta area from metro-Detroit, I was once a Joey supporter. It’s true, he had no offensive line in Detroit but he did have a cast of some amazing recievers and a decent running back. in Miami he had a fantastic OL but still put up the same type numbers he did in Detroit.

Joey’s #1 problem, he doesn’t throw the ball more than 10 yards downfield because he’ll get picked off 4 out of 5 times. This won’t work with Bobby’s new offense which is more pass-oriented.

Just hope and pray something happens to him because if he stays the starter all season, they’ll be lucky to win 3 games.

By Adam

July 26, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I’m not going to call anyone a ‘hater’ or a ‘racist’. Instead, I’m going to point out a couple of moves that Petrino made before this mess went down. First Petrino signed Fonoti and drafted Blalock to play the guard spot. I don’t know what that means to you. To me, it’s an indication that Petrino felt the OG play was lacking last season. Before some of you get started, let me stop you now. Run blocking and pass blocking are two separate things. The Falcons are an excellent run blocking team. No doubt. On the flip side, pass protection is a perennial problem for them. Second, Petrino brought in Joe Horn to help mentor the young WRs. Clearly, he thought that the receivers were woefully undeveloped. He’s not ready to give up on them yet, so he brought in Horn. Finally, the Falcons’ record without Vick will not be pretty. Unless the Falcons’ OL vastly improves their pass blocking skills, I don’t see Shockley or Harrington faring much better. Plus the receivers must show me something. Otherwise, I will say 5-11. Maybe they will be 4-12 or worse.

By gmw

July 26, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I hope they loose every game under that loser Harrington. Hopefully the better quarterback (D.J. Shockley) will get his chance….My prediction is 4-12 will D.J. winning the final 3 games after Harrington disappoints. Different team, same lame fit the profile quarterback.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Stat of the day:

Vick - 55 career fumbles

Harrington - 25 career fumbles

By wtf

July 26, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

The hell a fullback has to do with anything? He was the fullback for Jamal Lewis last year too and Jamal did nothing. Horn is on his last leg this guy might be decent if he is healthy. Joey has a higher rating in what? He has more losses more interceptions and a lower winning percentage than the qb we just lost too. Im tired of people saying he played for a bad team in Detroit. How long will you people use that as his crutch. He seems to be a nice guy but he isnt a good qb. This Falcons team probably isnt better than the Miami team last year and they benched Joey near the end of the season because the guy makes way too many mistakes. This team wont come close to 9 wins. Hamilton thank you for making that point. Being the 3rd pick means nothing considering the number of high picks that have been bust so please bury that weak argument too people. Joey has been bad because he really isnt that good. It was reported a while back that he wasnt looking that shart at camp anyway. Its going to be a long long boring terrible season. The defense wont stop anybody and Joey will be on his back .

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Don’t call people “losers” if you can’t spell the word “lose.”

Loser.

By Harry

July 26, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Bradley- you’re teetering on reaching an all-time low. Not only can you not write, your content is even worse. You actually make T. Moore look like Dan Jenkins. Your columns are so lame that you now have resorted to pre-emptive barbs at your reader’s intelligence. What a joke. I think Mike Vick has a better chance of Mensa membership than you.

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Mark, your efforts to educate this rabble are laudable but you’re swimming against the tide here my friend.

I believe the Falcons will do pretty well this season. With Vick, the Falcons would have gone 5-11. As a quarterback he is undisciplined and ill prepared. The game agains the Cowboys, last season, was illustrative of vick’s entire career. In that game he was brilliant in the first half, throwing four touchdown passes and the Falcons went into the locker room leading 28-21. In the second half Vick could not put up a single point and the Falcons were defeated. In other games, many of them, Vick was simply awful. In seven of the nine losses, Vick could only put up an average of ten points. Last season, Vick threw eleven touchdowns in three of the games. In the other thirteen he threw nine. It was Vick’s inconsistency that accounted for the poor showing of the team. Mora was given the blame and shown the door but the fault truly lay with Vick and his sad performance. In the second game against the Panthers, he engineered the scoring of only three points and the Panthers won despite their lack of a quarterback, literally.

Joey Harrington, despite having been in the league one less year, has thrown one more touchdown than has Vick. His time in the NFL has, in some ways, been the inverse of Vick’s. Both have quarterbacked their respective teams to losing records and both have fallen short of expectations. Vick, however, has been touted as a star, while Harrington has been viewed as inept. There have been no excuses proffered for Harrington and nothing but for Vick. The fact of the matter is Joey has passed for right at one thousand yards more than Vick in one less year of service. I think the Falcons, with Harrington moving the football, will win ten games and lose six. They will be something with him that they never were with Vick, a team!

As for your efforts to help these ninnies, forget it! You can lead a horse to water but you can’t force him to bathe. These idiots remain unwashed.

By rlynn

July 26, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

If Vick can get back and step in on kick returns and maybe as a receiver on thirds downs he can help the Falcons. We’ve seen no development from Vick on the field, what worked in High School and College doesn’t cut it in the NFL. Was that the West Coast Offence that Mora was running with a QB who couldn’t read defences or audible? Vick is a terrible QB. Harrington is a definite upgrade

By qback

July 26, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

How many of you Vick haters ever played FOOTBALL, THROW A BALL OR HAVE BALLS you people need to get a life Atlanta Football will never be the same without Mike Vick and I hope he goes to another team and come back and Kick the Falcons A_ _ The season is over Deal with it!!!!!!!!!!!.

By ha ha

July 26, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

HA HA HA HA HA. People actually think Joey Harrington will all of a sudden become this great qb he was in college? HA HA HA . When this team is barely winning 5 games and Joey Harrington has more interceptions than touch downs and when this defense still cant stop anyone from passing on them I wonder how Mike Vick will get blamed.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Damn. Now I gotta change my name ‘cause there’s another Chris. Stop weezing on my juice, dude!

By Had enough

July 26, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Sum Dum gye. You are some dumb guy. Lerlene so are you. Bonnie if no one gives a f—k about the Falcons, why did you bother to comment? Everyone should give Harrington a chance, maybe this is what the Falcons need. We will just have to see.

By Jeff

July 26, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Mark, I believe 9-7 was a little bit of a long-shot. I was thinking MAYBE 7-9. As for now, the team needs to PLAY, unlike ‘03. This is a different situation in that Vick will probably not play at all. I say 6-10 will be a successful first year for Petrino, if there are no more devastating injuries or court cases. But I can see a 3 or 4 win season happening as well.

By O. Verit

July 26, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

The consensus seems to be 9-7 without Vick. It’s interesting that so many people think that Vick was somehow worth three or four wins, or that he could “give us a chance to win by keeping it close and doing something magical”. Isn’t it true that Ookie has failed to register a 4th quarter touchdown in something like, I don’t know, a year or two? How is that worth 3-4 games? The best QBs throughout history have always been known for their ability to bring a team back. I personally think the Falcons were capable of a 10-6 season last year without Vick, even if it meant running a no-QB offense like Arkansas.

By post this stat

July 26, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Chris can you post Harrington’s interceptions against Vick’s? And while your at it post their winning percentage. You guys are funny but yea post those stats too since your doing fumbles. Joey Harrington has thrown 25 more interceptions in his career than Michael Vick although Vick has been in the NFL longer. And add in the fact that Harrington has thrown the ball 460 times more than Vick. Yea I really ahve confidence in Harrington. WHAT A FREAKING JOKE. This team will be so freaking bad

By Ron Roberts

July 26, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Ok, why is it if somebody comes back to defend this franchise from an ignorant Vick supporter, their post gets deleted, but the ignorant post gets to stay?

By who care

July 26, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Vick may have made the city look bad or the talk of a card party. All of this over some DOGS What about all the horrible and disgusting things people do to children and people in general. I can care less about those dogs. Hell they will turn on you and kill you or disfigure you for life. Where the hell is PETA then. Who cares. All I have to say is if it was someone else other than Vick it would have been washed under the table. Along with the rape at Patrick house and that player that killed his girlfriends dog. Lose lose Falcons. I guess Vick will be the blame for them losing even though he will not be playing. WIN WIN VICK I hope he gets off move and play for another city and take them to the superbowl.

By All I Know is What I Know

July 26, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

12-4. The Falcons will finally be a team, versus sitting sround waiting for Vick to do something special. He was entertaining to watch, but frustrating from the point of providing cohesive, steady leadership.

The wide receivers will BLOSSOM. Joey Harrington will show everybody why he was a 1st rounder with this system.

The defense will be great. Solid contributions across the board.

The Falcons are now a team, that’s goo, not bad.

I believe in the power of positive thought. Envisioning bad things only increases the likelyhod of bad things happening. Fact.

Thoughts?

By Bridgett

July 26, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

2-14 Vick “is” the reason to watch the falcons.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Hey qback, you must’ve been absent from school on the day they tought punctuation, correct?

Question: Have you ever played in the NFL? What makes your opinion better than those of others?

The Falcons were here, oh, 35 years before Michael Vick ever put on an Atlanta jersey. They will be here long after Vick is nothing but a memory. You say Atlanta Football will never be the same without him?

Yeah, I hope you’re right. As in, maybe we’ll make the playoffs. Remember, we went to a Super Bowl with Chris Chandler. But without Vick, we’re doomed?

Moron.

By dredd_one

July 26, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Optimistically based on our talent level and schedule I see us going 7-9. You may laugh at that, but we have veterans at key positions (all pro ones at that). We have a coach that will game plan against opponents’ weakness and to our strengths. A system that will allow the quarterback to change the play. A system that will distribute the ball better and keep defenses off the QB. A bigger and better O-Line. A more than serviceable QB in both Shockley and Harrington which is all you need in Petrino’s schemes. And you have MEN not children who take a lot of pride in what they do. Don’t count our Birds out. I think we are going to be suprised. The south is up for grabs folks. New Orleans schedule will be tougher, if you double Smith Carolina can’t win, and Tampa Bay is a mess.

By popcornular

July 26, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Falcon’s fans, gotta love em. As primitive thinking as their former QB.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

WHY CAN’T PEOPLE LEARN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN “YOUR” AND “YOU’RE”?

Wasn’t this covered in like first grade or something? You are correct, Mark Bradley. God Bless government schools.

Hey post this stat, you can put up any statistics you like. I’m not going to do your work for you.

Here’s another stat, since you’re so fond of them:

Vick’s federal indictments - 1

Harrington’s federal indictments - 0

By VickDaMan

July 26, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

So let me get this straight…Vick every year keeps us playoff Contenders with the receiving and o line he has not to mention coaching and play calling were horrific he still manages to every make the Falcons playoff contenders….Harrington in Detroit had better O-Line WAY BETTER receivers and we all know his coaching staff stayed pretty much the same because lord forbid Detroit fire their coaches and Harrington still couldnt cut it…..oh yea…he will do wonders in ATLANTA where they are still re-building the o-line, new coaches…AGAIN….oh and lets not forget that his receiving corps is a definitely downgrade from Miami’s or Detroits…..but yet Harrington can save the day….get outta here…focusing just on Vick football wise…HE IS THE BEST THING TO HAPPEN TO ATLANTA ON SO MANY GROUNDS. He single handidly saved the franchise filling seats playoff berths WINS excitement…some of you people need not to post while intoxicated!

By jim

July 26, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Regarding Harrington being no Matt Schaub, I certainly hope that’s true. Schaub has a career qb rating of 69.2, threw as many ints as tds and NEVER won a game for the Falcons.

By The Ring Leader

July 26, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

The Falcons will probably be around 5-11, but I’m thinking we should be around 3-13. Then maybe Coach Petrino can go get his boy from Louisville, Brian Brohm, and build the offense around a guy who knows the playbook extremely well. Might as well, I really think this season is a wash. I don’t mean to disrespect the players and coaches and their efforts now and throughout the season, but I think 2008 may be the year that the Falcons finally succeed or at least get on the road to success under the leadership of a new quarterback….

By High School student

July 26, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Hey All, Mark thanks for giving me this time to post. Anyhow, I will support the Falcons 100% Red and Black all the way not matter what. PEACE BY INCHES_AL PACINO

LETS GO FALCONS AND GET THOSE INCHES

9-7 record this year PLAYOFFS OH YEAH!

By SC

July 26, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Mark, I’m looking forward to your lesson on mixed metaphors! LOL

I still think that you are underestimating the change in coaching. The key is how much Petrino can coach up Harrington. Remember that Harrington’s OC, Marty Mornhinweg, came from an o-line background, Remember that Marty once elected to kick-off in overtime against the Bears. I’m not sure anybody could have been successful under Saban in Miami. Nevertheless, Harrington must successfully spread the field vertically and sell the play-fake.

The defensive line holds more uncertainty than the quarterback situation. Can they stop the run this year?

I say we’ll do best against teams that can’t defend the pass and/or can’t run the ball so wins against the Vikes, Texans, Titans, Giants, and Bucs (once). I’m going to throw in coaching wins versus Panthers and Seattle. 7-9.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Should’ve been “taught” in earlier post. Whoops.

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Who Care, Vick will be on television today. Don’t miss him. He’ll be entering a plea to the two felonies he’s charged with. Be sure and tune that in. Soon, his plea deal will be worked out and he will be off to prison. In a couple of years you will see him exit prison. The one thing you will never see again is Vick on a football field!

By RJS

July 26, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Just an FYI to anyone who thinks Vick will be back in the NFL anytime soon for any team at all, Odell Thurman’s petition for reinstatement has been rejected by Roger Goodell. That means he gets a 2 year suspension for skipping a drug test and getting a DUI. Vick will not play anytime soon because all Goodell has to prove is that Vick should have known what was happening on his property (especially since there was no lease agreement so save the “renter analogy”)- drug dealing and dogfighting. If he’s found guilty- forget it. Time to move on. Oh yea,Falcons manage 7 wins and remain mediocre.

By Vick Supporter

July 26, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I hope we lose every game, not because Vick won’t be playing, but because of you ignorant Atlanta fans, black people included. Everyone has the right to believe what they want. It’s a shame that his own fans turned on him. If he’s found guilty, then it’s whatever you want to say. But think about this, are these so called witnesses credible? are they the guys from prison that were questioned? PRISON, folks. These guys will say anything to get their time shortened. No one wants to be in prison and will do anything to short his time or get out. Now, if the guys indicted with him turn on him and if their facts are true, we’re in trouble. Wee just have the courts do their job, but not us ignorant Americans, we go off of anything we here, true or not true. Vick, only God can help you. Tune out these CLOWNS who already have you guilty. We love you Vick.

By td

July 26, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Wow, I thought Falcons fans would be fans no matter who is QB. It is sad and really somewhat pathetic that there are those who are wishing that the team lose all of its games. What did the Falcons do wrong? How is this their fault? They’re not the one who embarrassed a team, a city, and a whole professional sports league with disgusting inhuman behavior. My prediction: the offensive and defensive lines struggle, the team battles the distraction of their former QB’s legal proceedings, as well as the vicious war of words between the few who still support the former QB and the many who don’t, and the squad ends up 4-12. And next April, Roger Goodell announces: “With the first pick in the 2008 NFL draft, the Atlanta Falcons select … quarterback Brian Brohm, from the University of Louisville.”

By Pitt Bull

July 26, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Look at the Falcons record the last 2 seasons with Ron Mexico under center…PATHETIC comes to mind. #7 does not have the intelligence nor accuracy to take the Falcons to the next level. King Arthur needs to fall on his sword and punt Vick. He can go play with the other thugs in Oakland. Who was the brain-o that traded Schaub? However, I will take Harrington over Ron Mexico anyday!! Also..I am a Brotha!!! So this is not a racist post.

By Brian O'Brien

July 26, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

I’m going with 4 and 12. I hope Petrino proves me wrong and does what no one else has been able to do, turn Joey “Happy Feet” Harrington into a successful NFL QB.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Do you idiots REALLY think that if Vick were white and this came about, that it would be a non-issue?

If you really think that, you’re an f-ing moron.

If you don’t really think that but say it anyway, you are a racist.

I wish we could put all you morons in a shuttle and fly your a—es to the damn moon. You don’t deserve to breathe the same air as sane, rational human beings.

By david

July 26, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

The jury haven’t spoken I don’t think. Are we still in America. The world isn’t coming to a end. Atlanta still have alot of football left. Give the man change. That the reason the Falcon drafted more than one Quarterback. Everything happen for a reason. End of season 10-6.

By dredd_one

July 26, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Bold: Rebuttal to “Post this Stat”

You said that Vick had less interceptions even though he threw the ball less and had been in the league the same amount of time. Throwing the ball more DOES affect the amount of opportunities a defense has to pick off your passes. It is simple math.

A better judge of their interception totals is percentage of interceptions to passes thrown.

Vick - career - 52 INT / 1730 PASS ATT = 3% pickoff rate

Harrington - career - 77 INT / 2190 PASS ATT = 3.5% pickoff rate

Not that much difference for folks who want to look at the facts.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

I can’t wait to go to the Dome and see all the black fans boo Joey Harrington. He hasn’t even played for the Falcons yet, and you people will boo him simply because he’s a white guy who has a job that used to belong to a black guy.

Don’t worry about skin color. Go ahead and boo Harrington. It’ll show your TRUE colors.

By Jake Bogartis

July 26, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what we’re all crying about.

Vick was more interested in his little housing-project-hip-hop games, than he was the game of football. He wasn’t intelligent enough, or dedicated enough, to be a consistent winner. Did he EVER master the entire playbook during ANY season he was around? NO, HE DID NOT! Would he ever? NO, HE WOULD NOT! Petrino has no earthly idea how lucky he is that this happened. AT LEAST, he will now have a quarterback who’s intelligent, dedicated, and who GIVES A DAMN! Vick is a sandlot quarterback; all he ever was, or would ever become! Now the full focus can be on football, and without the ridiculous hip-hop BS!!

It could be a rough season ahead for the Falcons, but you truly never know. If we’re able to acquire a REAL quarterback in next year’s draft, or via trade, we’ll be MUCH better off in the long haul.

I think THIS YEAR’S record will actually be better WITHOUT VICK! What Harrington lacks in physical skills will be more than compensated by BRAIN POWER, DEDICATION, and KNOWING MORE THAN PAGE ONE OF THE PLAYBOOK! He’ll see those second and third option receivers that Vick NEVER saw. He’ll be a MAN, and lead like a MAN, not some Hip-Hop CLOWN!

Harrington 9-7

Vick 6-10

Vick

By jp

July 26, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

The Very Essence of Taste and Sophistication, here are examples of average qb’s with superbowl rings: Trent Dilfer, McMahon, Plunket and Hostetler (remember, these are the ones that won there were more average qb’s that played in the superbowl). With that said, there is no reason to believe that Harrington cant lead this team to the playoffs and beyond however our chances would be better behind Vick.

By VickDaMan

July 26, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

how about thats 25 more times the other team gets the ball and score…..dumbest stat ever to id take 55 over 77 anyday dumba$$

By The Truth Comes Out

July 26, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons will go 8 and 8 this season if Harrington starts and maybe a little better if Shock gets a chance. Either way they will be better than with the Coach killer, Team killer, Game killer, Roach Killer, Brain cell killer, Dog killer, Gangsta rappa wanna be! One thing we do have to remember about Harringtons college stats is he played in the PAC 1+9 which has no competition. Give Sockley a chance! BYE BYE Ron Mexico HA HA HA !

By James

July 26, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

With Vick : 11-5 Super bowl Champions

Without Vick: who cares

Dogfighting is a moral issue. I depise dogfighting, but I also despise deer hunting, rabbit hunting, elephant hunting, UFC, Pride fighting, and the death penalty. Of those I fighting dogs bred to fight is the worst. Don’t blow me. Killing a horse is okay if his ankle is broken and he has lost his value. Tom Brady is into internet porn according to Tom Brady. That is a moral issue. Ray Lewis was involve in a Human killing. The next season he helped his team win the Super Bowl. Jonathan Babineaux allegedly killed his girlfriend’s dog, a matter that is still being resolved, but he is on the team and in training camp today. I am disappointed Mr. Blank is not showing Mike the support he deserves. Like all other idiots, or many people, Mr. Blank has been brainwashed by the media’s propaganda. I do not understand why a “White” celebrity can maintain his child hood friends, but a “Black” celebrity has to abandon his friends and adopt new “White” friends or corporate american friends. If Vick was caucasian this would be a none issue. If the NFL bans Vick from the league I will no longer follow football. If the Falcons, which use to be “my Falcons”, cut ties with Vick then cursed be the Falcons. I hope they fold under. Atlanta will no longer need a football team. Michael Vick is the best FOOTBALL player in the NFL. God bless Michael Vick.

Others this has happened to: Micheal Jordan, Michael Jackson, Michael Tyson, Muhammad Ali, O.J. Simpson, Kobe Bryant, Hank Aaron, Barry Bonds, Jackie Robinson. I let you draw the comparisons.

By fayncdawg

July 26, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Pitt Bull; Vick needs to be knocked over the head BIG TIME! But then again I dare say at least TEN NFL players will need to be knocked over the head (yes I believe that many will stand accused of high-stakes betting involving dog fights). That being said, let us make one thing clear. Anybody who would take a 4-win/season white QB over Vick is stupid!! You might be black, but you are a dumb-behind-negro!!!

By James Adams

July 26, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

W/Vick-5-11 WO/Vick- 3-13

This team has NO depth, and both lines are VERY suspect. Why I wrote; Since when are the freaking Giants the next coming of the 80’s 49ers???? Eli Manning is THE most overrated quarterback in the league. People LOVE bashing Vick for his completion percentage, but who has the second lowest in the league the last 2 years? Elijah. He doesn’t have legs to cover up for his errant arm, either. Tiki Barber made this team and he’s gone. Move back to Long Island, please.

By brewdawg

July 26, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Mark,

11-5 and NFC South Champs with Vick. (NFC is going to be wide open, so I can’t really make a prediction of how the Birds would have done in the playoffs). Without Vick= 4-12… which brings me to something I can’t understand: At what point this year when it is apparent that we are going to be drafting in the top five do we let Shockley play some? I mean, the offense was designed for Vick, and Shockley is the closest thing skill-wise to Vick this side of Vince Young. Harrington has proven he is a back-up at best in this league, and heck, maybe DJ is too… but I’d sure like to see him be given a chance. Not to mention you’d have no worries of the off-the-field issues that we had with Vick. Thoughts?

By Byte Me

July 26, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Found this AP story in Richmond Times

Phoenix sheriff investigating to see if Vick has involvement in Arizona dog fighting

July 26, 2007 11:49 AM By The Associated Press

The sheriff in Phoenix says his office is investigating to see if Michael Vick may have any involvement in dog fighting operations in Arizona.

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio tells Phoenix radio station KTAR that the Atlanta Falcons quarterback is a “person of interest regarding pit bull fighting,” but adds that he’s not “talking about a case.”

Arpaio says Vick’s name has been “very familiar” to his office since “a while back.”

By Skinny Pimp

July 26, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

FALCONS WILL GO 2-14…GET READY TO LOSE…A LOT! IT IS GOING TO GET DARN RIGHT UGLY YALL.

By Gene

July 26, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

There are strong cosmic forces working against the Falcons. There is no question that Vick is gone—hopefully to prison. Blank is due a great deal of blame for the Falcons’ demise. First, Dan Reeves was a proven coach and a fine man. Blank dumped him and hired Mora who was only slightly more mature and ethical than Vick. In spite of Vick’s constant behavior problems, Blank had the nerve to state this week that he always believed Vick was really a good person. Was Blank unaware that Billy Johnson was paying off one Vick transgression after another? Did this include the vanishing water bottle? So Vick is gone and even removed from the highlight reels, but Blank is still running the show. I have no confidence in him. Bobby Petrino was not the answer to Vick’s bad behavior, and he will jump ship at the first opportunity. What Blank needed was someone like the team-hired thug who followed Ty Cobb around and beat the hell out of him whenever Cobb got out of line. In spite of everything, the Falcons may just step up and play some good football, winning six or seven games.

By JRS

July 26, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Patrino’s offense is QB friendly, so any QB under center is going to ‘succeed’. Wait - that was in college - playing against Big East and C-USA schools.

Regardless, this is a great opportunity for Patrino and the Falcons to start building a franchise that can compete. The Vick fiasco gives Patrino a couple years before he is expected to make the playoffs. Quite a few of the legacy players need to hit the sidewalk - Roddy, MJenkins, JHorn, most of the OL, etc. and start bringing in new, hungry talent. I really hope the Falcons instill a ‘team first’ mentality similar to the Pats, because it has proven to be successful. I think they’ll win 4-5 games this year, but it will be nothing to write home about. Let’s start rebuilding…

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

James, I wish you were a horse and your ankle was broken.

You will stop following football if the Falcons cut Vick? I am positive you would not have the same opinion if this were Keith Brooking involved in this mess.

Stop watching football. Stop following the Falcons. They don’t need you.

And put the pipe down, man. Have your teeth and nails started turning yellow yet, or just fallen out altogetehr?

By a chick who knows her football...

July 26, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Okay everybody, settle down…Let’s consider the positives here…The team has a real opportunity to rise above the chaos everyone else is putting on them, and showing the rest of the league that they can rise above diversity. No, its not an ideal scenario, but Harrington will have the entire league’s attention during pre-season to prove himself, finally, without all the preceding excuses,—and let’s say he whips a$$—won’t then the naysayers be silent…from there we gain momentum, the offensive line does their job and Harrington shows us his real ability. Then, won’t you believe? This is a new day for the Falcons, similar to the city’s rising from the ashes of it’s yesteryear ancestry. Let’s give these guys our support, before they’ve even played their first down, rather than impart our unsubstantiated crap-filled estimations. Could you not hope for more and then be quite surprised when they supercede all of our estimations and appaer as a contender at the Superbowl? Geez, YOU’RE so quick to judge, based on nothing, yet.

By BCR

July 26, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

WHAT THE HELL DOES HIP-HOP HAVE TO DO WITH ANYTHING?????????????? If you don’t like it, turn the channel or station. If yu have a problem because it was in the dome, don’t go to the games. My God, get over it. By the way, I can only presume what you think Hip-Hop is, sangin pants, doo rags, drug dealing, killing, degrading women. Am I right? Let me school the ignorant people, that is not Hip-Hop. Hip-Hop died in the early 90’s. What you are refering to is Gansta Rap BS. So get it right.

By peter

July 26, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

looks like you need to add to and too to the list. wow, some people haven’t a clue. oh yeah, the falcons will be 3-13. shoulda, coulda, woulda - (oh to have matt and have drafted calvin). that would have provided a playoff team.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Brewdawg, this offense was designed for Vick. Petrino has run this offense for years, and he showed at Louisville that he can do it with either a scrambling or pocket QB. Do you actually watch football?

By JoeyHPimp

July 26, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Only in Atlanta would people predict a QB in a new system (that never performed in 3 years under his old system), under a new coach will perform in what is perhaps the most competitive conference in the NFC…Let’s breakdown, in our division with Vick at the helm, we maybe would’ve split our division games (3-3)…with Harrington, maybe we win one of those against Tampa Bay. The remaining games against the competitive AFC South and upgraded teams in the NFC makes for perhaps a 3-13 season!!! If you think they will do better than that, please offer some in-depth opinions based on actual football matchups, other than the “I hate Ron Mexico, Dog-killer” crap that’s rampant on this message board…Can anyone tell me their reasoning behind us beating anyone in our division or a breakdown of the other matchups that we face….I’m waiting…Better yet humor me and give me your predicition on fan capacity at the games (70/80%) whatever…I love the Falcons being a native of Georgia, but over 60% of Falcon fans are Mike Vick fans

By Keith from Chatt

July 26, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

I think we will go 7-9 with some luck. Joey Harrington is Awful. Mike Vick will end up with either Miami, Tampa Bay or Minnesota after the Falcons let him loose and he will lead one of those teams to the playoffs.

By All for one and one for all

July 26, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

I would like to make an apology to the Atlanta Falcons players. You guys are willing to bust your buts for each other on every play. The city of Atlanta wants to divide you. Some in this city want a black quarterback no matter what. Some in this city want a white quaterback no matter what. Hey why stop at quarterback. I can hear the conversation now. Well Keith even though you are an all pro linebacker the city has spoken and we just don’t want a white person at that position anymore. Or how about hey D. Hall sorry man but the city doesn’t want black all pro cornerback. Ya just gotta go. Atlanta is showing the rest of the world just how ignorant some people can be. It is sickening. I hope people like Warrick Dunn don’t waste their time reading this garbage. He and the rest of the team deserve better from us.

By Jimmi

July 26, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Now that Vick has been in the pros for 5 years, he is no longer a mystery and most teams have figured out his weaknesses and how to stop him. He is a one dimensionnal QB with zero leadership capabilities or ability to execute a complex offense. I was expecting the Falcons with Vick to beat some bad teams and lose to most good teams. Probably would have been 5 and 11. By year end Petrino would have been fed up with Vick’s inability to execute the offense and tired of his selfish play.

With Joey Harrington, I expect a marginal improvement by having a QB capable of executing an offense. Joey is not great, so I’ll say 7 and 9 with Joey.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Correction: this offense was NOT designed for Vick. My bad.

By peter

July 26, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

James, Did you ever take an English class? Dude, you need some serious help. I know, as you stated regarding the Falcons without Vick, who cares?

By Buc"s fan

July 26, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

with Vick 11-5- with out 4-12 . you people you are the worst fan in history. Vick please come to the buc’s.

By suzangrace

July 26, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

michael vick should be banned from the nfl! what he has done is reprehensible. maiming, torturing, and killing animals is unforgiveable. get rid of this piece of trash and get on your knees to cleveland and beg for brady quinn.

i will never supportthe falcons, nike or home dept again if actions are not taken against him (as in banning him and firing him from his nike contract). NEVER!!!- there’s always lowe’s and avia, and besides, i like the steelers better.

By reza

July 26, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I think Falcons will win 10 games ,go to playoff and lose.I also think vick was a great running quarterback and lousy NFL pro quarterback. He specificly woud be a bad team leader and the worse roll model for our kids.

By Bill Heller

July 26, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

With Vick 7-9, considering all the additions and subtractions I did not see them being better than last year. Without Vick 4-12, and I anticipate seeing Shockley call audibles by November.

By Pit Bulls suck

July 26, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

With Vick, 5-3 first half then 0-8 second half = 5-11.

With Harrington, 5-3 first half, then 5-3 second half = 10-6 and a playoff birth.

Football takes more than a great athlete to lead a team…they also have to be smart which Vick is obviously not at all. Vick is probably one of the dumbest athlete’s to ever play a sport. good riddance! His running skills will dfeinitely help him avoid gang rape in the showers though :)

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Vick isn’t going to lead anything. Rather, he’ll be led off in handcuffs and leg irons once he’s convicted. Vick is going to face more charges and a lot of time in jail. He’s a stone criminal and he’s going to have to do the time because he definitely did the crimes. he will never play for any team in the NFL again!

By ATLfalcons

July 26, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Joey H could turn out to be a good QB for the Falcons. Although he doesn’t have an impressive resume, he is certainly SMARTER than MV. Think about that, a Falcons QB with a brain!!

However, the media circus following MV will affect the players, coaching staff, and fan participation this year.

With Vick (IF he wasn’t on trial for murdering dogs) 8-8 , without, 7-9.

This will be good for the Falcons in the long haul. I believe they would only be average, and at best, above average with MV. Now without him, the Falcons have a chance to be a GREAT FOOTBALL TEAM.

I’m glad to see him go!

By Dr. Doom

July 26, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Keith from Chatt,

Vick might as well lead another team to the playoffs since he wasn’t doing it here.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

JoeyHPimp, why don’t you break down for us the reasons that the Falcons will lose 13 games?

I will patiently await your dissertation on the Falcons’ doomed ‘07 season.

By Paul

July 26, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

With all the other problems this team has, I think 7-9 to 5-11 sounds about right. But then again it could be one of those years that leads to “And with the first pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Flacons pick Darren McFadden, running back, University of Arkansas…”

By BLACKWATCH

July 26, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Hola Mark: Dave Archer already said that Joey Harrington sucked at the mini-camps. Just like in 2003 the rest of team, the core remains the same, will tank. I predict 4-12.

By BCR

July 26, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Wow, Atlanta is full of omniscient people.

By Savage in Florida

July 26, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

It’s a sad, dark season. Its my opinion that this will be the worse season of my life. Fortunately, I have hope. I believe in what I see on paper … perfectly comparable professional athletes. I never wanted Vick in ATL … now I have my chance to see what that would be like. I have only one request … play DJ first. See if he can prove himself. Joey’s had his chance.

By jp

July 26, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

One last comment from me:

After reading these blogs, I realize that Atlanta fans are bizarre at best. They dont really support the team. Case and point is when you have fans who hope that we lose every game due to one player. A second case and point is the fact that Vick was never really well received by certain people in Atlanta. Since he was never received by a certain faction of people, anything he did that was questionable, made him an easy target for their hatred. Third point and I dont know if this is a matter of intellect and understanding but some fans (mostly the ones that dont support Vick because of who he is) seem to think indicted means guilty. DNA has freed a lot of people who were indicted and later found guilty who spent years in prison. Public pressure lead to some of these people being falsly imprisoned. Right now, public pressure has made an owner publicly turn his back in part on a member of our falcon family. Right now, the only crime Vick is guilty of, is allowing himself to be in situation(s) that could not only jettison him out of our family but jeapordize his career. If this is Vicks’ last days as a falcon family member, I would like to thank him for helping to keep football here in Atlanta. I followed the falcons since I was old enough to comprehend football and I can tell you that our attendance and quality of football was enough to hurt the most prideful fan. The falcons seemed bound to be headed to another city. Outside the “Grits Blitz”, it took the likes of Deion Sanders, J. Anderson and especially Mike Vick to make the Falcons a little more than a footnote and make fans excited enough to come out to watch them. Days of the blackout seem to be headed back to Atlanta and so is the days of lack luster excitement. The bizarre fans wont have a novelty to come see anymore and they will go back to being luke warm fans who will help usher in our team leaving Atlanta. *Question to all: If a Thrasher kills another Thrasher , should the city have been as outraged as a Falcon is *alleged to have ties to dog fighting?

Bizarre fans.

By UnderDog

July 26, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see Mike Vick try that $#@! with ME.

A T L, yo!

By BCR

July 26, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank, isn’t the Montgomery Falcons sounding really good right about now?

By NativeBird

July 26, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

FAIR WEATHER HAS NO COLOR

While everyone has nothing but negative things to say about the Atlanta Falcons, Aurthur Blank, or even our city (Atlanta) being divided down racial lines on the issue of Michael Vick. I submit the following different view and focus to the citizens of this great city. If you just moved here or do not care about this city, then you need not read any further.

We all liked Michael Vick when he was winning, black, white, or whatever. Yes there were some who never liked his style even when we were winning on the ground, not through the air. Mike Vick will go to court today in Virginia because of actions and decisions he made outside of his team commitments to the Falcons. He will not and should not play this year for the Falcons and may not ever again. He is innocent until proven guilty, but needs to focus on his defense, and the rest of his life. I wish him well, and I think that he has the most incredible amount of total football talent that I have ever seen in a human being. OK, now that that’s over. Let’s move on Atlanta and let Mike and his defense team deal with Mike Vick.

We still have a NFL team in Flowery Branch with an owner who has worked tirelessly to bring us a winning home team. Be grateful. Arthur Blank got in town last Thursday and did not make formal comments until Tuesday because he was doing his due diligence on the issue just like he does with every major issue. He too loved and trusted Mike Vick but just like us fans, he is surprised and stunned by the allegations (and that’s all they are at this point).

However, the Falcons drafted a defensive end, cornerback, etc., and have made several acquisitions (Joe Horn being one). Let’s support this team behind Joey Harrington. I lived in Seattle when he played at Oregon, and he made highlight film after highlight film. He was great in college but has played for some horrible NFL teams (at that time) Detroit and Miami. Besides, I think D.J. Shockley could be a starter in the NFL and would give us the mobility that we have become accustomed to under our former quarterback. He is also a quick learner, and a smart kid who has stayed out of trouble. We still have D. Hall, Brooking, Jimmy Williams, Alge Crumpler, Jerious Norwood, Michael Jenkins, Grady Jackson, Jamal Anderson (rookie draft pick), Joe Horn, and John Abraham. We can still have a good season. What if Mike got hurt, would we be in any different position? I say that it is the same, minus the PETA protesters. Let’s move forward.

If you love the Falcons like I do, you support them if they win or lose. If all you can do is attack this franchise for the actions of one man doing something that they did not condone, you are a FAIR WEATHER FAN, PERIOD, and FAIR WEATHER HAS NO COLOR. This situation is simply not their fault and they have acted quickly and prudently in response. Their hands are now tied by the NFL Commissioner and they will do whatever they can to cooperate. Let’s help them rebuild this city and our teams reputation by supporting the Atlanta Falcon’s Franchise. I wish our former quarterback well, I will support him receiving due process of the law and I hope that he can resume his career at some point whether here or somewhere else. He is such a talent, but reality is that he may never play for us again. That, again, is his fault, not Arthur’s. 9-7 in 2007, GO FALCONS!

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Excellent point, reza.

You people who want Vick on the team: are you going to take your children to the Dome and allow them to root for Michael Vick? Do you want your child idolizing that man?

If so, God help us as well as the next generation.

By Stalin

July 26, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

whats the big deal, they are only dogs, not people. Screw the mutts, let Vick play.

By Adam

July 26, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

How many times did the Falcons change their offense when Vick was the quarterback? I count it at 3 times. His intelligence had little to do with his ability to grasp the playbook. I’d like to see some of you try having to learn a new offense over and over again. Aren’t NFL playbooks like the size of War & Peace? One of the keys to winning is continuity. The Falcons franchise nor its fans seem to grasp that concept. Changing coaches over and over again defeats their chances at continuity. With that being said, Vick has made some poor decisions over the span of his NFL career. It’s obvious that he hasn’t learned from the previous experiences. For that reason, I would consider him a fool.

By Pit Bulls suck

July 26, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

to JP - horrible comparison.

1 was a mistake/accident and the other was intentional murder

By Greg from Marietta

July 26, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Despite all the negative nay-sayers the Falcons, both the players and the coaches, will surpass all expectations. Mark my prediction come December 2007 - Falcons 10&6 and a Playoff berth. You heard it here first….

By Midnight

July 26, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Some of you people are crazy as @#$%!. I won’t even give a prediction with a number over 4 wins. All the fools that have wanted Vick gone even before this dog mess finally got your wish. Make sure you enjoy the prime time games we have this year, because the guy who who got us those 3 games (off of a 7-9 season no less) is gone and we won’t see anymore for a long, long time. Let’s give a shout out to the empty Dome and blacked out home games, they will soon be back again!!!!! BTW, all these people who are poking their chest’s out (all of a sudden) on their soapbox about dog fighting, make sure those chests are poked out just as far when it comes to the brutallity that happens to humans here and abroad. I have a feeling it won’t be that way.

By George

July 26, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Let’s digress a bit more. I’m fed up with sports announcers constantly using double subjects: “Michael Vick, he,” The Falcons, they,” “Bob Horner, he,” and on and on.

These high salaried folks should be made to pass a basic eighth grade English test before being allowed on the air.

And the Falcons will not make the playoffs with or without Vick.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Savage, I hope you weren’t attempting to correctly show the difference between “it’s” and “its.”

If so, you failed.

By tired of it

July 26, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

As an Auburn fan I know what Petrino brings as far as offense. I was excited for Vick to be in this offense instead of the Greg Knapp foolishness. That dream is gone but I will give Harrington a break and see what actually happens. Every year I feel it is possible to win it all. Even with all this surrounding the team I stilll have to believe. As a season ticket holder I don’t care if the games are blacked out. A true fan supports his team and not just one player. Those are true fair-weather fans that only care about one player.

By mart

July 26, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

The Vick fiasco gives Petrino an extra year’s grace period. I’m not sold on his coaching regardless of the qb. I’ll just guess that the Falcons w/o Vick would win 7-8 games with Mora still the coach, and will win around 6 games with Petrino.

By Paul

July 26, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Any of y’all remember the ‘89 (maybe ‘90, but I think ‘89)Falcons? I think they went 1-15, and even had at least one player die on them. Everything imploded. That’s what could happen to this team.

By fayncdawg

July 26, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Buc’s Fan: I truly believe that we are going to find out that dog fighting is very common-place in Va. and countless other states. And the love of dog fighting is very likely not restricted to wanna-be thugs. To cut through it all, Vick will be your QB in 2008. Hope he will learn his lesson!

By Chris

July 26, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Big D, did you really just refer to white people as “tobacco chewing (sic) country hicks”?

What if someone referred to you as a gun-totin’, crack smokin’ n-word?

And you think WE are the racists? Take your own advice and look in a mirror.

Make sure you turn the light on first, though.

By Greg from Marietta

July 26, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

NativeBird - That had to be one of the BEST responses that I have ever read. If you are not a professional writer, then you should be. Maybe the AJC could find a space for someone with your insight and eloquence. P.S. I agree with every word!!!

By Manger Borne

July 26, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

A N O P E N L E T T E R

July 25, 2007

NBA Commissioner, ATTN: David (“Goliath”) Stern 645 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10022

             RE:    Does ‘White Privilege’ Make 
                       Donaghy-gate, “Isolated?”

Dear Commissioner Stern:

How on earth can you try to relegate the instance of an umpteen-year, professional level referee’s unethical, public trust violation, and illegal activity as an “isolated” incident? I know we are in the Bush-II/Republican era of “Skull & Bones” cover-ups, but you may have “Dumbya” beat on this try. 

You looked as foolish as he does, trying to convince people who “attack” us in return, every, let’s say, ten years, is as dangerous as our own government—“man’s inhumanity, to man?” “Bush-onomics” attacks the poor, primarily, daily, in a number of openly, and covertly manners. 

With the rank and files Tim Donaghy has gone through to reach this NBA level of refereeing, and the multiple games, teams, coaches, and fans he has impacted, how could this possibly be an isolated item. I understand the rules of damage control, but you are doing nothing more than manifesting the problem. For years, we have been inquiring as to why your office does not protect Afrikan-Athletes from the harassing, envious, and paparazzi type media, the way it does the white players, and your office remained silent. Now, the chickens of moral atonement and retribution are coming home to roost.

Is there some protective clause for sporting industry elites that keep them from hearing such lambastes as:

1) “He’s a virus, with no inoculation!

2) He’s caused a pandemic—this could reverberate internationally!

3) If he could have been doing it, what other refs couldn’t be refs involved? 2 of 4

4) An unethical white, male authority figure, but that’s blasphemy!

5) He should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We don’t have to wait for the (all white?) jury, he’s already confessed!

6) Upon turning himself, and receiving death threats from the organized criminals, he should be considered a ‘terrorist’ to the integrity and ethics of the sporting industry!

7) He’s affected the entire infrastructure of even the gambling spectrum of sports and entertainment!

8) How do we know the High School level, Collegiate, WNBA, International, and Olympic authorities aren’t ‘compromised/appropriated,’ also?

9) Tim Donaghy has, unfortunately, exposed a virus…no…pandemic in the industry!”

An ESPN2 sporting analyst took the hood off the head of the sporting industry last week, when he stated G.W. Bush, Jr. said he would ‘make Barry (“Bury”) Bonds the poster boy of MLB, whereby ending steroid usage in it.’ Not that the pre-celebratory “homerun king” has been convicted of one thing—even Victor Conte denies ever issuing Bonds any “clear”—still, the white privileged public and media wants to lynch his name, homerun record, and innate (Melanin-given) ability.

Just as the protection of the NFL and MLB commissioners (Goodell, Bud Selig) exercise zero intolerance to protect the A-A players, as well, they too will experience embarrassing endeavors in their games. Incidents and illegalities that will forever tarnish their careers and shame the white public in general. A public, that while trying to “asterisk” Barry’s heroics, fails to remember to [*] the fact that their heroes all feared, and segregated sports, so they didn’t have to compete against the best, of the best. Black players.

You had the audacity to stand before the mike, just like a “good old…” Bush-ite does, claiming “Al-Qaida” is more dangerous to Americans than the money spent on making weapons; starting wars; being the number one transporter of murderous arms—the world over; supporting corporate crimes; worrying more about the better-off ‘classes’ than the “least of these” class (lowest-income); keeping the majority of citizens under-covered (HealthCare wise) to fatten the pockets of pharmaceutical and Medical establishments; and under employing the majority. Likewise, falsehood was written all over your face.  

In reality, there’s no telling how many other referees, coaches, owners, GM’s, CEO’s, or political officials are in on this Donaghy-gate! I mention political officials for their fervent stance, lately, on jumping into the pit to defend teams, while trying to shame and denounce A-A, ball players. It’s highly suspicious, to say the least. When have you ever jumped before

3 of 4

the microphone to so quickly and uninformatively, stop the shame being deployed to Black athletes, by the predominantly white press. Even news shows get their two-cents in on denigrating A-A players—whereas who controls the media but the CIA/government.

Until the real issue of the Browning of America, and the repercussions of forced integration are addressed, the steady shame and fall of white supremacy will be more lethal, than it has to be. The treatment of Black players, after the physically and reproductively insecure media sets the tone on how to “feel about” them is as obvious as the lynch mobs, slave blocks, justice system, and plantations of just, yesteryear. 

Nevertheless, your efforts at infestation-isolation (Donaghy-gate) will be useless. If the books (O.J., Bonds, etc), daily talk, and commentaries by the “gay-friendly’” at ESPN don’t forever mention this illegality to the utmost, the rebuking will reign supreme, on the white supreme sporting leadership. All of Mr. Donaghy’s games need to be revisited, from his earliest to his latest. If this were a Black referee…!

Somehow, it has even leaked-out that the whole [current] indictment of Michael Vick, and the [formerly ousted] re-established indictment of Barry Bonds had to do with a premeditated aim at distracting the public from Donaghy-gate? It would make sense, though.  And definitely would fall into the modern day aims of preservation of this democratic institution at any/all costs, you call “capitalism.” What better way to keep the heat and spotlight off of the faults and quirks of being falsely accused of ‘supremacy,’ than to keep the recent tides of Black “inferiority” and “selfishness” going?

Did you realize the 1974 MLB Commissioner Bowie Kuhn refused to appear at the game when Hank Aaron broke George Herman “Babe” Ruth’s—sheep hormone induced—homerun record? Now look at Tagliabue’s struggle to not bow to the new—Black—king of swing? The NBA and MLB are going to extensive lengths to convince the public, ‘Hey, these A-A players don’t respect or appreciate the game. Therefore, we’re going to go to foreign lands to recruit players; let alone, reducing the number of these criminal behavioral, [out-spoken] unappreciative players.’ Whereas, the real reason is the newly selected recruits don’t damage or remove the level of white supremacy from the game, as directly and ‘damagingly’ as A-A players do. It really all comes down to, white preservation. 

And the white sportswriters are on full alert to keep the Black negativity alive, while, as best they can, nullify the aftershocks and ripple effects of Donaghy-gate. Remember, they’re on the payroll of the government as much as the TV stations.  

Sports (and Revolutionary speakers/leadership) has long been the Blackman’s avenue to bragging-rights, motivating and putting pride in our race; hence the law enforcement and lynch mob tactics to humiliate, shame and run to foreign lands if necessary, our Boxing, acting, singing, Revolutionary, outspoken greats. Push come to shove, if the power of the pen can’t function as a sniper’s round into the Black Superstars, we’ll have to use the real thing;

4 of 4

or, some other “Black Operations, Freumention,” equality squelching, diversionary and subjugational maneuver.

I just can’t imagine the rhetoric, slang, (white) hate lingo, steadfast continuum of the subject, and call for heads to roll—not just Donaghy’s—if it were Black players at the forefront of this investigation. Incident. Unprofessionalism. Breach of trust. It wouldn’t dare be considered an isolated occurrence, regardless of its negative impact on the sport at hand; it would be used as a measuring stick, to justify A-A outage of league athletes. In other words, it would be better used as a tool of preserving the [unsacred, segregated] records of white history and Americanism, before calling it an isolated, one-person act. EVEN PRIOR TO THE INVESTIGATION BEING CLOSED! 

By the way, I even got wind that you and the FBI (right!) have imposed a gag order on the other league refs. Yet, when an A-A player is accused to the least degree, all his teammates, other team’s players, his coaches, trainers, the cheerleaders…all people are at the media’s disposal to join in on the shame-game. Maybe now, you and all the other leagues owners, coaches, commissioners and front office personnel will learn what it means to directly get on the front lines—whereby protecting your most vulnerable, yet prosperous assets. The ball players. 

The most unswerving show that this is a personal attempt to preserve white, segregated records, is the factor that when these A-A athletes begin to break such records—that they’d probably have anyway, had they been allowed to compete, back when—is the constant death threats they endure. Why would whites have to be so angry, envious, and jealous of the records of some simple games—unless they take them as marks of their [psyched-out] superiority? If these threats and signs were going from Blacks to white athletes, Congress and the Supreme Court would probably get involved.

Good-luck smoothing this one over, Commissioner “Goliath.” You’re going to have to be as big and powerful as Goliath to even vaguely concentrate the effects of this NBA earthquake at the feet of one person. I don’t care what the final, FBI tally determines. We all know, when it comes to capitalism and Western democracy, anything can be bought. Even a clean slate for the entire rest of the referees, GM’s, CEO’s, owners, former games refereed, coaches, and league offices. Oh, pardon my velocity Commissioner Goliath, I almost forgot, word has it your office had first hand knowledge of Mr. Donaghy’s gambling habit, before the story broke. Could that be another reason to regulate this whole occurrence to a one-man operation?

Mr. Joe Blough 1234 Anywhere St. Usay, USA 20016

By truthteller

July 26, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

All you dawg fans hoping to see Shockley at QB need a dose of reality. He really wasn’t “great” at uga, and was only drafted by the Falcons as a throwaway pick since local writers and dawg fans were complaining that Falcons never drafted dawgs. I doubt they ever seriously considered playing him.

I don’t really understand the big concern over “dawg man Vick” not playing this year. Unless everyone has a bad memory, we are talking about a qb who has been pretty bad the last few years…unable to see over the line, not competent to call audibles, missing wide open receivers, throwing uncatchable balls with no touch, fumbles, interceptions…how bad can it be to lose a qb like that? I don’t know what the record will be, but it will probably be about the same as it would have been with Vick.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

So Midnight, if there is brutality against humans somewhere in the world, we shouldn’t worry about dogfighting because there are worse things, correct?

Well, I guess we shouldn’t worry about things like theft, drugs, rape, or any other crime. As you say, there are human atrocities going on all over the world. Right?

Yay! Now we don’t need police any more!

Fool.

By midnite

July 26, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

To all the Vick apologists. You clowns sound like you would give your life for him. Y’all need to understand that you are a big part of his problems. Y’all keep telling him everything he does is cool. Understand this if your limited learning capacity will allow it. Mick Vick doesnt give a rip about you losers. He has shown time and time again that he only cares about himself. He doesn’t care about his teammates, Mr. Blank, and the city. So keep on supporting his low class self. Why don’t y’all support classey people such as Tiger Woods, Tony Dungy, Warrick Dunn, and Robin Roberts. I guess they’re not “ghetto or gangsta” enough. Vicks type of play should make him #1 on the prison yard team.

By Busta Nut

July 26, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Harrington starts the season with little success and the underDAWG comes on to save the season…..GIVE D.J. THE BALL AND LET THEM PLAY!!!

By WAREAGLE

July 26, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Typical Falcon’s fans, to love Vick when he’s good, and hate ‘em when he’s indicted. A month ago, every person writing a comment on this story was pumped about Falcon’s ‘07 season. Why don’t you all go cheer for the Patriots you fair weather fans.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Take a look at Rex Grossman’s stats compared to Harrington’s.

If I remember correctly, I believe the Bears reached the Big Game with Grossman under center. And the Falcons can’t do it with Harrington? Please.

By RIP

July 26, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

At least the Falcons will get the first pick in the draft. Once again why is Schaub being brought up? He didn’t produce any wins either, and plus it’s not like Mora is still the coach. And speaking of Coach, no coach coming from college has ever done well in their first year. Everyone wants to bring up Brunell, but he was throwing 5 yard passes to Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell. The Falcons only have Crumpler( I like Joe Horn but will he be healthy). So everyone should look forward to next year and drafting Jon David Booty.

By Busta Nut

July 26, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Truthteller, put the crack pipe down and back away from the keyboard! DJ is class act and lost only one game his senior year. He has more integrity in his thumbnail than Vick has in his whole body! Who was Tony Romo before last season? Give DJ the ball and let him play!

By Mark Bradley

July 26, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

I just took a tour of the scene outside the Falcons camp at Flowery Branch. I’ve seen a few things in my professional life, but I’ve never seen anything like the PETA people chanting, “Sack Michael Vick!” and a dozen or so Vick supporters chanting back. I can only imagine how surreal this tableau would have been if Vick had been here instead of in Richmond.

By you don't scare me

July 26, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

why don’t you racist go to a braves game? or a thrashers game. you don’t attend hawks games becaus its too black. iknow, i know. “thug” is the new code word for n**r. How about go to UGA game. you should feel right at home there. Just admit it. Dodfighting is just a reason to get done what you guys wanted from day one. You want your white qb, period. I know it, you know it. “…but what about D.J. Shockely? ” Please. He is nothing more to you guys than the “acceptable negro.” Only because he let you guys shaft him for three years at UGA. Don’t give me that crap about David Greene and his winning %.What was Jim Kelly’s winning % ? Talk to me about championships. Not conference titles. I work with a closet racist who actually said to me when I brought up Bobby Cox’s sparring bout with his wife, that dogfighting is worse than any other crime, save for offenses against children.Wow. As you might assume, he was imediately tuned out. Maybe the whole O.J. thing still stings a little bit. Are you mad the dome is 75% black every sunday since Vick was drafted? Do you long for the days of Fulton Co. stadium when white representation was more prevelent? How many of you actually have a home address that reads Atlanta? Very few. You run into the city, work, then run home and call us out our names like cowards. Hey thats how this country was founded. By cowards who claimed things that were not theirs to begin with. Oh yeah, I’m rollin baby.You say, “what choice does the dog have in the fight?” I say what choice did that deer you have that is mounted on your hypicritical wall have? Oh, one is against the law right? Who wrote the law? Of course it’s going to protect your double standard mindset. Cookie cutter response.Maybe it’s the way he dresses and wears his hair/hat. Too much hip-hop right? Lets go to a braves game and count how many pairs of khake shorts, vintage shirts and flip flops, hats with the brim bent down. That represents you guys since of style. Vick represents his people since of style, but he’s a thug.I’m not even going to start with Danny Heatley…Grow a pair AJC. Post this. Vick forever.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

You’re a fair-weather fan if you look down on someone for being indicted for running a dogfighting ring? Seriously?

By jp

July 26, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Pit Bulls suck, you are right. One is an accident and one is alleged. The alleged is dispicable. The taking of an animals life for pleasure is horrible. Albeit by the drug called alcohol, the life of another human being lost was accepted without the same furor. On the surface we are comparing an accident to a willful decision (alledged) but below the surface it is drugs(alcohol in this case) versus willful decision.

My appologies are not tongue and cheek, it is sincere. The only purpose was to really ask; has human life taken a back seat to animal life or is the racial element that seems to be in abundance here, truly the driving force of these blogs?

If you ever lose someone to alcohol induced accident then you may very well look at this matter at hand and say that perhaps this matter is fueled by the latter.

Like I said before, on the surface, you are right, there is no comparison. For that I appologise, however, please understand what I was trying to convey.

By Mr. Gilley

July 26, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

GREAT POST JP…EVERYONE READ JP at 2:31PM!!!

By Non-Fairweather Fan

July 26, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

As a season ticket holder, I suspect the falcons will go 8-8 w/o Vick. Hopefully Vick plays. I support Vick and am not a wagon-rider or ambulance chaser. Vick has NOT BEEN CONVICTED. Everyone has assumed his guilt. I don’t know if he is guilty or not. I hate you people who blast a person prematurely. I remember vividly all the negative statements/presumptions on his MARIJUANA possession and secret compartment at the airport….. Oh we’re sorry, this isn’t marijuana but an herbal supplement and this bottle didn’t have a secret compartment but was made specifically for storing supplements, said the police. So I will wait until concrete facts come out as oppose to “ALLEGATIONS and ASSUMPTIONS” which are other words for “opinions and hypothesis”. SO GIVE THE GUY A CHANCE BECAUSE AT THIS POINT NONE OF YOU KNOW IF HE IS GUILTY OR NOT!!!!! It’s only your OPINION, and the everyone knows the BUTTHOLE saying…

By Bear

July 26, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

10-6…..Harrington has a breakout year. Will be the 5th best QB in the league in 2007……behind Manning, Brady, Brees, and Palmer. Go Falcons!

By Black Panther

July 26, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

I posted earlier and told THE TRUTH about this whole Vick thing being about white southerners that don’t like black qbs. The AJC removed my blog because of this comment. But I have read where white bigots have blogged in and called blacks everything from “jigs” to “boy”, and their comments remained posted. We will lose all 16 games this year because of that same good ol boy way of thinking. Bobby Cox gets drunk and beats his wife (repeatedly!!) and nothing happens. Patrick Kerney and his friends gang rape a woman at his house and nothing happens. But as soon as Vick’s cousins fight some dogs on his property, it makes front page news and dominates the headlines. Don’t you get it?? Whites control the media along with this stupid newspaper!!! They control what the people read and hear. I hope Vick moves out of the south and goes to a team that cares about football and not race!!

By RickB

July 26, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

You Vick bashers are nothing but racist and know nothing about Atlanta Falcons football. What part of no blackouts and exciting football do you not understand. That’s gone for a long time, maybe forever. You think all of a sudden, we can pass protect, have good receivers and can stop the run. Joey was signed as a backup for a reason and that’s iffy because no one else was knocking his door down. I’ll miss Vick, because he made the Falcons exciting to watch. Now, it’s the sos falcons. Dam you Vick !!!!!!!!!!!!

By brewdawg

July 26, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Chris,

Yes, any QB can thrive (at least in college) in Petrino’s system, but he came here to coach Vick, not Harrington. If you think he didn’t have a nice portion of his playbook specifically designed for Vick you are kidding yourself. My point is that Harrington won’t be able to perform those plays, but Shockley might. Obviously there are plenty of other plays designed for any QB, but we all know we’re gonna lose with Harrington. Why not lose while seeing how Shockley progresses? Is that not a valid observation? Or do you still want me to go watch some NFL network, since I apparently am not up to your guru-like standards? :)

By JH

July 26, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

I was already dreading this season just because of the usual fall-out with a new coach. I figured them for 7-9 at best.

Now, I’m thinking 6, maybe 5 wins. And this isn’t really to do with Harrington. I believe he is capable, but now, thanks to Vick, the Falcons will have this hanging over their heads all season and I think it will wear them down. Plus, their offense has now just changed for the 2nd time. Originally it was being tailored for Vick’s style (run first, throw second and too the first receiver you look at and hard as crap even if he is 2 yards away) and now it will be changed to suit Harrington.

Poor Joey, he goes to Detroit where they draft WR after WR with their 1st pick only to get a bunch of lemons. Now, he inherits a team that has drafted a bunch of WR’s with their 1st picks only to find that they have bricks for hands.

By Ron

July 26, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

I feel the receivers will improve the team and with a better offensive scheme I believe Joey will also perform better than he’s had opportunity to do in the past. I expect the Falcons to still go 8-8 because he’ll be more teachable than Vick.

By Bushwacker

July 26, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

TO By you don’t scare me , so what your saying is the only acceptable black athletes are the ones only black people like, if honky likes him, he must be toonice to reallly be black, do you have ay idea and stupid and racist you sound.

Probably not on the stupid but I’m sure its obvious even to a punk like you that you hate white people, PATHETIC!

By midnite

July 26, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

That should be Mike not Mick, my bad. Oh, and please don’t confuse me with the uninformed and short-sighted Midnight character. Go Falcons!

By BULL

July 26, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Mark this fiasco is truly a damper on the upcomming 2007-2008 NFL season. The falcons record will be 4 wins and 12 losses. I am a die hard falcon fan and we all know of the bumbling mistakes in the past and the present. This situation does not surprise because it seems to me that Mike Vick has taken on the dark side like Darth Vader but the fans and falcon ownership have to move on. Mike Vick is not the chosen one. Joey Harrington is a descent back - up but not at the top of my list to lead the face of the organization so that leaves D.J Shockley, 3rd string quarterback. Give D.J a shot and let’s see what will happens. If that ship sinks, then let’s get ready for the next years draft and make preparation to secure the right “person” or better yet the right personality with good morals and attitude to match as the quarterback of the ATLANTA FALCONS.

By Optimistic

July 26, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Bradley, I think at least 6-10 and maybe 7-9. But please don’t go overboard on the English lessons.

By alex

July 26, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Innocent until proven guilty regardless of what you think about the guy, if he is found innocent he will be abjured from any sanction.

By Bushwacker

July 26, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

THE TRUTH IS FINALLY OUT, This is not about us white people hating on blacks, because we come right and say we like DJ so we are not the racist,the truth is people like ( By you don’t scare me ) are blacks that hate white people.

You man enough to admit, punk!

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Mark, you are correct when you describe the sights and sounds out at Flowery Branch as bizarre. You are right, as well, when you conjevture as to how much worse it would be if vick were there. However, that tableau does not compare to the images I have of Vick electrocuting or hanging a non-competitive dog. Those images are truly frighteningly surreal. Apparently, if the indictment is accurate, those things really happened. The truly confounding thing is how could someone be of such low character as to engage in this sort of animal murder? How could someone be so arrogant as to think they could engage in this sort of activity with impugnity? Further, how could someone jeopardize the sort of lifestyle Vick has enjoyed? Now, that’s surreal!

By Mark

July 26, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

I was figuring on Atlanta going 9-7 with Vick also but given how Harrington and Schaub are both basically drop back passers and with an improved defense this year I think the Falcons will go 10-6 and be a wild card this year

By tired of it

July 26, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Black Panther, You are a fool.

By Chris

July 26, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

If you’re worried about blackout, just do what the rest of us REAL Falcons fans do: buy tickets.

By midnite

July 26, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Hey Black Panther, did yo momma fail to give you your meds today? I do agree with you though, Mike Vick should move to out of the south. Take a chill pill and relax your paranoia is getting the best of you.

By fayncdawg

July 26, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

JP for Georgia Governor! Heck, JP for PRESIDENT!

By you don't scare me

July 26, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Bring it.ROOF,ROOF.

By Bushwacker

July 26, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

You guys need to move on becuase VICK will NEVER wear a falcons uniform again, there is no way Blank will ever let Vick make him look like a fool again, it’s just too bad it took this for everyone to realize what kind of person Vick, and if you still don’t believe just look at he expression on his face as he walks in the courthouse, I think says it all.

By Former Falcons Fan

July 26, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

I sure hope Ron Mexico didn’t give those dogs herpes when he had them in that rape stand.

By bigeasy830

July 26, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

If you do not want Michael Vick on your team and you think he is such a terrble Quaterback, then do not blame him if the team sucks. I say the falcons will be competitive unless they give up on the season. Petrino has been the best coaching canididate for a few years for a good reason. He can coach. The falcons have very good young talent on this team but the early injuries may be more of the reason for some early bad losses. With Vick we were a play-off team without him 7-8,8-8, without the injuries to coleman etc. With those injuries and no Vick,7-8,6-10. You can’t have it both ways people either you wanted the man to be a falcon or you do not, either you want to be proud of a winning team or be happy with a losing team that you claim you can be proud of. This is professional sports a business, and we should be inthe business of winning.

By Bushwacker

July 26, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

I knew it, you are not only a punk but too gutless to admit the obvious.

Enjoy what time you have left on the outside!!!

By Dale

July 26, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

First of all, if I may speak for all clear-thinking black folks, Black Panther you are a Fool!!!!

Moving on to the Falcons…my prediction 4-12 at best. If I’m Mckay, I putting Abraham, Dunn, Coleman, on the trading block for some future draft pics. I doesn’t make sence to have one of the highest team salaries in the league and not win 5 games. TIME TO REBUILD

By RIP

July 26, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Didn’t Petrino coach a UL team against FSU that gave up eight sacks to Alonzo Jackson in one game. And the fans are looking forward to him. Call Jerry Glanville or Dan Reeves its only to Hawaii and Americus.

By CDS

July 26, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Whether we had Vick or not, this team still wouldn’t finish with more than 7 wins. That mostly has to do with our lack of defense. But there have been QBs in this league who have come back to have great careers. This lack of faith for a guy who didn’t have any playmakers or pro-bowlers around him in Detroit or Miami is sickening. I honestly believe Harrington will shock the world this season, and be much better than most of you think he will.

By YOUR, YOU'RE and YOUR'S

July 26, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

6-10 seems about right. I’m worried about the offensive line, worried about the defensive line, worried about linebacker, worried about cornerback, worried about quarterback, worried about our receiver corps.

Make that 5-11.

Or 4-12.

Oh yeah. The black cloud over the team after Babineaux and Vick’s criminal endeavours.

Mark me down as 3-13, Mark.

Your welcome.

By M-PIMP

July 26, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

F the Falcons and Ron Mexico! HAIL TO THE REDSKINS, HAIL VICTORY, BRAVES ON THE WARPATH, FIGHT FOR ‘OL DC……..

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

The Federal Government will be filing additional charges against Vick!

By Jim Levenstein

July 26, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Calm down, Bushwacker. I think he’s gone. The point that ‘You Don’t Scare Me’ was trying to make is that a black person who doesn’t present, behave and speak like a ‘white person’ is considered a thug. Does it make what he’s saying right? No. Is it a hatred of white people? Maybe so. But if that’s how he sees things, should we be surprised? Frankly, I like khaki shorts and wearing my hat with the brim bent down. Oh well. There’s no pleasing everyone, I guess.

By SPEAKING AS A FOOTBALL FAN

July 26, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

First of all, I am not a fan of the Atlanta Falcons.

I am a football fan, a fan of the NFL as an organization, and, in particular, a fan of the San Francisco 49ers.

Winning football games in the NFL does not depend on having the absolute best athlete at any particular position. Teams win games with inferior athletes all the time, just as teams lose games with superior athletes all the time. What’s important is developing the game skills of athletes, and preparing them week-to-week for their rivals across the line of scrimmage.

Michael Vick is no more important to the Atlanta Falcons as who the water boy is. What’s important is preparedness. The teams with the best coaches are better prepared for each game, and will win more. To think believe the Falcons will perform any better or worse, depending on if Joey Harrington or Michael Vick play the quarterback position is to be ignorant of how the NFL really works.

Jerry Rice, the greatest receiver to ever play the game, was not that great of an “athlete”, that is, he wasn’t particularly fast for his position. But he had a drive to win, and great coaches and resources to be prepared to win games. These coaches and resources is what made both Joe Montana and Steve Young great quarterbacks - it’s no “fluke” that the 49ers had 2 of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game on the same team. They were the best to play the game BECAUSE they were on the same team, a team that exemplified winning in the NFL.

The Falcons success this year depends on how well Petrino is able to break the long tradition of losing in the organization - it all depends on if Petrino is able to make himself bigger than the attitude of the franchise, and if he is able to pull together a coaching staff that prepares his team week-in-and-week-out to win football games.

The organization makes the difference, not the players.

By JEFF LAUE

July 26, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Ron Mexico gave me herpes too…..

By you don't scare me

July 26, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Hey Bushwacker…..bite me.

By Ury

July 26, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

I had been thinking 7-9 before this whole thing started.

Now I’m thinking 2-3 wins.

Just wait until you see how the defensive ends we play this year attack our “transitional” o-line now that they don’t have to worry about Vick escaping the pocket.

Dwight Freeney, Julius Peppers, Charles Grant, Will Smith, etc…

By RIP

July 26, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

After the Falcons cut Vick, he is going to end up with the Raiders. You heard it here first.

By DOGS ARE COLORBLIND

July 26, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

With Vick: 6-10 and 85 dead pit bulls in 2007.

Without Vick: 5-11 and a Dog Show at halftime of the Super Bowl.

By tony316

July 26, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

3-13, arthur blank sells after 2yrs. blackout local because not enough tickets sold. history repeating itself let’s go braves

By Tim

July 26, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

You people make me sick. This team talent wise is better than the team of the last 2 years.

Joey Harrington is gonna take the Falcons to the playoffs with 11 wins this year. I believe Harrington is more than capable of playing like he did against Detroit last year week in and week out.

The hell with Vick. Who needs him? The Falcons sure don’t.

By Austin Bailey

July 26, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons can go 10-6 with Harrington. I know im one of Vicks biggest fans theres no doubt i travel from Omaha to Atlanta to watch Vick/Falcons play. As much as people hate to admit it’s the Falcons D thats gong to be the make or break for this team. The offense has some talent in place and Harrington just needs to get the ball into the hands of the play makers which shouldn’t be to hard for him. With Vick i say 12-4 under this new scheme. Harringtons inability to escape the rush will cost them two games maybe.

By Rick

July 26, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

I said months ago this team was closer to 4-12 than it was to 12-4 and a serious run at the Super bowl. My prediction still stands. Until this team learns to place at the head of the team people like Dunn, Brooking, and Crumpler, they will be mired in mediocrity or worse. Unfortunately Blank has allowe dthe Vick’s and Hall’s to take center stage and teh determemtn of an otherwise solid team with much to build upon. One thing is for sure, Harrington may not have the raw athleticism of Vick but I am guessing he has the intelligence and leadership to not underachieve the way Vick has for the past two seasons.

By Brian

July 26, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Oh man … bet Blank is kicking himself for letting Schaub go.

But in truth, maybe this is a blessing. Vick was always a disappointment anyway, and the team relied on his “earth-shattering ability” (which never really materialized) too much.

Maybe the Falcons can now move forward and become a balanced football team rather than a showcase for an overrated scrambling QB.

By Darrell Robinson

July 26, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

The falcons will not win no more than 4 or 5 games and i won’t be 1 of the people watching those 4 or 5 …you could take 1 of the best great white hopes in the nfl peyton manning put him on the falcons with the team they have and they still wouldn’t win over 6 games ……the falcons running game is very misleading they get those yards because of the threat of vick running ……but on the other hand you put vick on the colts and they still would be a contender ..easily with those hall of fame recievers

By 28 Sweep Pass

July 26, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

When the schedule came out (pre-Vick problems) I predicted to my friends an 8-8 season with 9-7 possible if Seattle “rested” in the season finale.

Now I say that we go 5-11 and build for the future.

No matter what though I’ve been a Falcon fan since ‘66 and will be throughout ‘07!

By KB

July 26, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Damn shame, I hope Vick leaves Atlanta and goes to the Dallas Cowboys. Atlanta is like Cleveland a bunch of sorry losers that don’t know how to win and run every valued athlete out of their city except those that keep quiet and take all of their BS like Hank Aaron. Atlanta doesnt deserve any professional team at all. Let them continue to cry for all those losing seasons to come. Funny Babineaux SHOT his dog and we heard not much about it and he is in training camp now. Atlanta’s not ready for the pro teams let them keep their college teams.

By Silver Fox

July 26, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

As a Carolina Panthers fan, I’ve always respected Vick’s athleticism, particularly his running ability. As I look at the 2007 Atlanta Falcons, I think their defense will have to carry the team, at least during the first half of the season, because a new offense is being installed. The key for the D is to stay healthy.

Norwood will have to run effectively to set up play action and to buy time/pass protection for Harrington. As a Georgia Bulldogs fan, I understand the excitement about D.J. Shockley, but Harrington is experienced and Petrino will create high-percentage passing plays.

With Vick, the Falcons looked like a 7-9 to 9-7 team. If the defense stays healthy and keeps the team in the game in the 4th quarter, 7-9 to 9-7 is still reachable in our mediocre NFC conference.

By bill

July 26, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

I can see 4 wins: Minn because it is early in the season and they have a rookie QB; Houston because they are Houston; Tampa Bay at home because the Falcons have to win at least one division game; and Arizona because they are the Cardinals. So the best we can hope for is tops six wins—my guess is 5 & 11 like Mark.

By genius

July 26, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

With Vick I would say 8 and 8, with Harrington 7 and 9. If we still had Schaub, probably 11 and 5 and the play-offs.

By Bushwacker

July 26, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

“Hey Bushwacker…..bite me”. is that the best you can do (don’t scare me)? LMAO

you must have went to school with Vick

By herb

July 26, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

WONDER IF JIM MORA HAS SENT MR BLANK A THANK YOU NOTE YET? THINK ABOUT IT, HE GOT FIRED JUST FOR JOKING ABOUT LEAVING AND MIKE THE DOG KILLER, BY THE WAY I AM AN AVID BULLDOG FAN, KILLS INNOCENT ANIMALS AND JUST GET 4 WEEKS SUSPENSION BY THE FALCONS? SOMETHING BE WRONG WITH DAT PICTURE. MIKE GOTTA GO AND LET THE TEAM REBUILD.

By Joseph Allen McWhorter

July 26, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, this is one time that I disagree with you. I personally feel that the Atlanta Falcons will do just fine this year without Michael Vick playing one single down. Even with Vick playing the past two seasons, the Falcons still didn’t make the playoffs and went from 8-8 in 2005 to 7-9 in 2006. Michael Vick is no longer God’s gift to the Atlanta Falcons. Michael Vick has never progressed into a truly pure NFL quarterback. Anybody in their right mind would take Peyton Manning in a heartbeat over Vick. And may I add that that Manning guy has a ring on his finger. And more importantly, Manning knows how to stay out of trouble off the field. And furthermore, who said that Petrino had to start Joey Harrington at quarterback anyway. I truly like D.J. Shockley. He has great potential to be an effective quarterback if just given the chance to play. I just don’t like Michael Vick anymore. He has let the entire city of Atlanta down. The Falcons have a new coach and thus a new philosophy and sense of direction! I think they will do just fine. Go Bobby Petrino!!

By Jack

July 26, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

With Vick 6-10 Without Vick 10-6

Bottom line——Who cares

By are you serious

July 26, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Chris are you really this dumb? Yea Grossman got to the Superbowl but last time I checked Chicago had a great defense. Nothing about the Falcons defense says great to me. In fact the defense has been the problem with this team. The Falcons easily make the playoffs the last 2 years if it wasnt for this sorry defense. I saw them give up lead after lead but hey I guess that’s the qb’s fault too. That sorry defense cost us probably 2 or 3 wins last year. We drafted some guys but didn’t add a superstar defensive player. In fact we lost one of our best defenders in Kerney, although he was overrated. So please explain to me people how we will have more wins than last year with a harder schedule and almost no significant improvements on the defensive side of the ball. I like Anderson and Houston but I seriously doubt they will make that much of a difference. With Vick this team was a 9 or 10 win team just because of VIck but with Harrington here I just dont see that type of element. You brought up Vick fumbles but when someone brought up the 20 more interceptions that Harrington had your comeback was childish. We still dont have a #1 receiver and some key guys on defense are either hurt, signed somewhere else, rookies, and learning another position. It’s ok to have faith in this team but some of youo guys are really fooling yourselves in thinking we will win more than 5 or 6 games. It’s very easy to see that a lot of people on here don’t like Vick so that is why they are coming up with these ridiculous number of wins. We will be lucky to win 2 games in our own division.

By Northern Yankee

July 26, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

The Falcons were looking at 5-11 with Vick. Without him, 4-12 or 3-11. They’ll probably start off the year 0-5.

You folks down South got suckered in by Vick’s talents. If you had kept Dan Reeves, you had a shot at reforming Vick and making him a gentleman and also a good QB. Instead, Blank (great name) decided that Vick should be coddled and protected.

And no, Vick will never play in the NFL anymore than OJ Simpson would make another “Naked Gun” movie or be a broadcaster after he was found not guilty on butchering his wife. Vick is guilty and he is finished. He may beat the rap but his next stop will be to enjoy the millions he was lucky to save. Maybe the CFL can use him.

By DbleD25

July 26, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

3-13 for this year and the next three because they never bothred to surround Vick with REAL talent, just crap like Brooking and Dunn. 10-6 with Vick.

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

This is a great day for Atlanta and for the NFL. A criminal is being brought before the bar of justice and he’s going to receive what he so richly desreves-many years in prison. So long Vick and do be careful with that soap.

By Mark's Cousin

July 26, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

I just can not comprehend the illiteracy of venters on this blog. I’m like Mark Bradley, it’s you’re, not your. Learn how to spell or stay off this blog!

By LB

July 26, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Who won the super bowl last year and the year before that and the year before……? If my memory serves me correctly, Vick was not on those teams and they did very well. So what’s different about the Falcons?

By Fred

July 26, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

This will be Harrington’s breakout year. He’s with a much better team and coaching staff than with previous teams. Remember Chris Chandler? Falcons win the divison without Vick and go 11 and 5. Vick couldn’t win by himself. It takes a team. If the Falcons play as a team, they will win. In fact, they have something to prove. My prediction is that they will prove many people wrong. If Garcia could take an Eagles team to the playoffs, I see no reason why Harrington, with a good supporting cast, cannot do he same. Harrignton could not save the Lions by himself and apparently Vick couldn’t do the same in Atlanta. Oh, who was the quarterback of the Lions when they beat the Falcons under Mora’s watch?

By Randall

July 26, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Without Vick I’m thinking 9-7, with Vick .500 at best. Everyone is better off if they trade his massive warrantless contract to the only man who would care, that being Al Davis at Oakland. Heck he wants everybodys troublemaker and problem child. Frankly I am thrilled that Vick may never suit up for the Falcons again!

By A FAN OF THE NFL

July 26, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

Here’s my breakdown:

at Minnesota LOSS (possible WIN)

at Jacksonville LOSS

Carolina LOSS

Houston LOSS (possible WIN)

at Tennessee WIN (possible WIN)

NY Giants LOSS

at New Orleans LOSS

San Francisco LOSS

at Carolina LOSS

Tampa Bay LOSS

Indianapolis LOSS

at St. Louis LOSS

New Orleans LOSS

at Tampa Bay LOSS

at Arizona WIN

Seattle LOSS

The Falcons have it bad - their out of conference and division schedule is brutal, of the 10 games, 7 are contenders for the playoffs this year, and one of them won the Super Bowl last year! The Falcons may “luck up” and bean the Vikings and/or the Titans and/or Texans, but that’s not going to help much. What’s the difference between going 2-14 and 5-11?

With an much improved NFC South, and an out of division/conference schedule like they have, the Falcons are going to find it hard, especially if the team is demoralized by the situation their starting quarterback(s) are in, whether it be Joey Harrington or Michael Vick himself - either way, there’s a cloud that hangs over the team, and that’s not a good thing in the National Football League.

By MARY

July 26, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

I PLEDGE ALLEGANCE TO MIKE VICK AND UN-UNITED STATE OF AMERICA, SCREW THE REPUBLICANS WITH A WHITE MAN HAND.ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Hey, Are You Stupid, you predict the Falcons will wion only two games in the division without Vick. You are aware they won just three with him last season, aren’t you? The team will be far better without this felon. If you are dreaming of a day when he returns to the Falcons, better wake up and apologize. He’s done for. The Federal Government is about to file more charges against him. In short, he is going to be charged under RICO statutes pertaining to organized crime, which is what he was engaged in. Wish all you want but know it’s not going to happen. The Falcons will cut him loose within the next three weeks!

By Richard

July 26, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

When do the Falcon #12 Brian Brohm jerseys go on sale?

By Wes

July 26, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

With Vick: 6 - 10

Without Vick: 10 - 6

By RxDawg

July 26, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Puhhhhhlease. Shockley is going to lead us to the superbowl. Just wait and see.

By jeanE

July 26, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

I was thinking 8-8 before Vick went down in flames & now I smell 5-11 if we’re LUCKY. It could even be worse than that b/c no matter what party line the team parrots, this is HUGE. And not good huge, either. I don’t care that Vick has pled not guilty, the damage has been done. He can never play here again. I just despise him for what he’s done to Atlanta and the Falcons. He makes me sick. Good riddance. And I don’t care what color he is either, that is irrelevant to ME.

By KenFromCalifornia

July 26, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

joey harrington will still have his matt millen “jones” going on… he won’t be able to shake it, especially if he suffers 3 or 4 sacks during an early-season game. only if yoda coaches the wide receivers can they “unlearn what they have learned” from their dismal play last year. another losing record, and definitely no more than a 20% renewal rate for season tickets next year.

By Shawn

July 26, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

Mark you are probably my favorite columnist for ajc. You have remained nuetral in this case and I applaud you for that. I give the falcons 4-12,5-11 at best without Vick(assuming he doesnt play). With him I give them 10-6, 12-4 at best. Love those Birds.

By bobby

July 26, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Joey Harrington is not Matt Schaub……Who is Matt Schaub really? You guys swear Matt would lead us to the promise land. Maybe he could have, or maybe he could have lead us like Doug Johnson. You do remember Doug Johnson, the guy everyone wanted to replace Vick..how did that go? Matter of fact Joey may prove to be a better starter that Matt. A lot of QB’s look great off the bench..Doug Johnson but then when they are given the keys on a permanent basis..who knows. I’m rolling with Joey for now regardless and if our defense can put it together maybe we can be somewhat like the bears. We have more talent on offense and the first of the last two years we looked like monsters. If we can carry the first half all the way through we may have a good year.

By ha ha

July 26, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

You Joey Harrington supporters were probably the guys calling for Doug Johnson. Last year in one game Joey Harrington had a passer rating of 0. A BIG FAT ZERO CERO 0. If you think this guy is better than Vick then I have some beach front property in Oklahoma I would love to sell to you at a good price.

By MYA_Benefits

July 26, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

I PLEDGE ALLEGANCE TO MIKE VICK AND UN-UNITED STATE OF AMERICA, SCREW THE REPUBLICANS WITH A WHITE MAN HAND.ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. GO CELEBRATE WITH ANDREW SPEAKER WITH TB FOR EVERBODY WITH A PICKET SIGN

By bobby

July 26, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

Hey JeanE, How about boycotting the braves as Bobby Cox did beat his wife. That should make you more sick. Regardless if she dropped the charges…he beat her!

By rlynn

July 26, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

This season was Vick’s last chance in Atlanta anyways and in his next stop he would a backup. It’s just saved the Falcon’s a wasted season and a chance to move on after the Vick fiasco. $130 million for nice cornrows, cute mustache, big ego, and an empty head.

By Peerless' Mama

July 26, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

I’ll take 8-8. I would have taken that last year but the team imploded.

AND THEN BLANK RAISES TICKET PRICES AGAIN???

Since Blank took over my tickets have doubled in price. I have one friend that had to let his go after 28 years. That’s sad.

Everyone is Pro-Vick or Anti-Vick?…

I’m anti Blank if anything.

Ya’ll be nice!

“Peerless’ Mama”

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

The Falcons are going to cut Vick and no team will take him. No team could take him. He’ll be suspended by Goodell and that suspension, though identified only as indefinite, will be for life.

By Randy

July 26, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

With Vick 9-7. With Harrington 8-8. Harrington had 6-10 and 5-11 seasons with horrible Lions teams. Why wouldn’t he win a couple more games with a very good rushing team, a better defense, and this coach? I think we’ll be surprised how little the drop off will be at QB. Different? For sure. Less efficient? I’m not so sure there will be a huge difference. If Harrington is more efficient on 3rd down, he may even be an improvement. I don’t know why people can’t remember how “un-watchable” the Vick-led Falcons were at times. Unable to move the chains on 3rd and 6….

By will

July 26, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

Before I read or listened to any press I read the 86 count indictment. Vick is done. Won’t step onto an NFL field again. When he gets his passport back he can suit up for an overseas bush league. Falcons would be just as worse off with him. Every other team would aim for his knees and take the 15 yards if even a referee would toss a flag. He deserves due process however it is tough to believe Feds or State prosecutors would pursue this case if it were not stone cold, lights out for Vick. There won’t be mistaken identities by witnesses, there will be celtel records proving his attendance, he will fold for a six month low security federal incarceration. Blank gets back his blank check almost entirely. Or I may be wrong, wanna bet ?

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Mya, you seem somewhat embittered my negro. Get used to it homes. Vick is a former NFL player and a future inmate in a Federal facility. word to ya mammy boy.

By Blind Homer

July 26, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

I predict they’ll go 7-9 with MV in 2006. Oh they already did that. Then I predict they would have gone 7-9 with him this year and will now go 8-8. Most people think back to 03 or 04 and forget how many games he lost the last two years, missing wide open receivers, fumbling in scoring position, getting sacked to take us out of field goal range, etc. I also predict Harrington will have lots more passing yards and fewer fumbles than MV did last year. Good riddance!

By smh

July 26, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Blind I guess you missed when the defense cost us a good 4 games 2 years ago and probably 3 this past season. In your world everything was Vick’s fault. Im happy he wont be playing for this sorry a* fanbase this year so they can find someone else to blame for this mess. It doesn’t matter that Harrington has thrown more interceptions , lost more games, and makes just as many if not more mistakes than Vick just as long as Vick is not playing is how a lot of people feel which is sad. Someone even pointed out that this guy had a game where he had a zero passer rating and people still think he is a better choice. WOW ATLANTA HAS SOME DUMB FANS. I hope Vick is found innocent and goes to another team and simply destroys this sorry a* franchise each time he plays them.

By Pray

July 26, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

777 Mark of the Beast!!! This world is full of evil but one thing I must leave with you all Judge not, that ye be not judged. Mat 7:2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. Acts 16:31

By Mike T.

July 26, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

0-16 with Harrington is better than 16-0 with Sick. It sad that blacks(not all) are mollycaudling this dude.Im white and I would be just as upset if this had been Peyton Manning doing this.Cruelty to animals goes beyond race and color.

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

smh, Leavenworth isn’t on the Falcons’ schedule.

By Mymomisacrackwhore

July 26, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

The evil white man is holding down a brother again! Let the man go and put food on table for his family. If Vick don’t play his momma will go hungry.

It is shame after the black man has taken over so much of this city, that mayor Franklin won’t do nothing!

Bring back our savior!

By Greg

July 26, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

9-7. Maybe Harrington will learn Petrino better than MV would, given MV’s probable marijuana use (Now I’m beginning to question ALL the various allegations/denials we’ve seen against MV). Something seemed amiss when MV was lukewarm in his stance on his younger brother’s legal troubles. That fits. And it’s a shame, too. Imagine what MV would be at 100%. I’m afraid we won’t see him as our quarterback again.

By the way, it struck me as odd when I heard someone describe dogfighting as barbarian (which it is), but, truth be told, football is quite a barbarian sport, is it not? Not that I don’t love it. There is some kind of perverse consistency between football and dogfighting. Must be some sort of primieval instinct.

By blackwingnut

July 26, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

8-8 with DJ Shockley this year, 10-6 next year… he is somewhat mobile… decent passer… and will draw fans.

By Bumblebee Tuna

July 26, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

I think that our record will have nothing to do with Vick, even though a crappy record will be easy to blame on his absence. For every time he broke a huge run or threw a nice pass, there were 3-4 times he got hit behind the line of scrimmage while trying to scramble after a broken down pass play, fumbled the ball without getting hit, or threw a wildly errant pass. Harrington is no worse a passer than Vick. He won’t need to run his rump off if he can get rid of the ball in less than 6-10 seconds, a feat Vick seemed to have problems accomplishing.

By John R

July 26, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

I’m guessing the Falcons will do about the same as they usually do.

With Vick: 8 to 10 wins With Harrington/Shockley: 5 to 7 wins

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

Blackwingnut, all shockley will ever draw is flies! word to your maternal figure my brother.

By Rich D

July 26, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

The Vegas over/under before Vick got caught killing helpless dogs was 8 1/2. It is now 7 1/2. The experts figure that the team was one game better with Vick and no turmoil than it is will whomever and a swirling media firestorm hanging over their heads all season. Enough said on that subject.

By Cosmic Wisdom

July 26, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

The Falcons will be a better team this year without Vick, and I predict 7-7. Vick will have additional charges and instances of involvement as the truth comes out and more unknowns become known. Vick will never play another NFL game and the few fans that now support Vick will disappear as more of the truth completes this grim picture.

By Tim S in McDonough

July 26, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

I’ll buy 5-11 without Vick but I wouldn’t buy 9-7 with him. The camera shot that I believe says it all about Michael Vick and his lack of dedication to football is that sideline shot where the Falcon’s defense is on the field, the offensive coordinator is diagramming plays to beat the band and Michael Vick is staring off into space and completely ignoring the coach. You don’t remember seeing it? You could look it up. Even without the current brouhaha the Falcons would never win anything important with Michael Vick. Do I get extra credit for spelling brouhaha correctly?

By op

July 26, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

It could be worse. The Falcons could have signed Reggie Ball.

By steve-o

July 26, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Harrington broke all of Dan Fouts’ records at Oregon. He went to a dismal Lions team that (shudder) had a worse offensive line at the time than the Falcons, and was essentially mutilated. The joy of handing off to runners than actually can run now (Norwood, i.e.) should perk him up a bit.

Here are ten reasons why the Falcons will go 9-7:

1. No Vick
2. No Vick
3. No Vick
4. Norwood starts the season over the injured Dunn
5. The O-line will show improvement with the new rookie, not a mean feat considering how well the team has rushed the past few years
6. A quarterback will be present who thinks pass first on pass plays, and when he throws it, it will not be a knuckleball to the middle of the defensive secondary while he is falling down after juking around for a couple of minutes
7. Jamaal Anderson will make people say “Patrick who?”
8. The Vick circus will die down, if the media doesn’t continue to inflame the PETA morons. (I always thought that PETA stood for People Eating Tasty Animals anyway)
9. Bobby Petrino
10. No VICK

We Atlanta Falcon fans may now see the development of a real NFL franchise, not some ‘see Mike run’ circus like we’ve had the past few years.

thank you

By REGGIE BALL

July 26, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

When’s the last time I was indicted on Federal charges?

By Dee

July 26, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

Shouldn’t that read “Schaub is no Harrington”? This media infatuation with Matt Schaub is hilarious, especially since he’s never accomplished anything worth speaking of.

Anyway, my prediction is Harrington surprises everyone: Falcons go 9-7

By Pitt Bull

July 26, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Hey GAYNCDAWG..you are obviously the dumb-azz brotha. You are only supporting that FOOL VICK because he is black. Homey ain’t playing that trick. He has embarrassed blacks, whites, Puerto Ricans, and even ILLEGAL MEXICANS who live in Atlanta. He is nothing but a PUNK THUG and that must be how you can relate to him. Give me an honest white QB anyday over a thug like Ron Mexico! Tell me what the Falcons record has been the last 2 years with that punk as the QB???? He ain’t S—T and neither are you Brotha!!

By tony316

July 26, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

arthur give me my money back… maybe PETA will fund your program… ur a rich who is starting to look dumb… a public defender can see there is no real evidence, no real times, dna matches for dogs found nothing but a thug claims… sit back and watch MVick go to the Raiders and kick the falcons in the nuts each time oohh i forgot u would have sold the team by then.

By Jay

July 26, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

With Vick, we still werent much better personnel-wise. I was think 6-10 worst case, 9-7 best case.

Without Vick, its over. 4-12. At least we’ll be cheering for Brohm or McFadden next year.

By LL

July 26, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

The falcon will be 0-5 right out the gate. These sorry falcons fans need to remember who got them to the top of the division and put them on Monday night football three times. The Falcons would have lost half there games if it wasn’t for Vick. Mr Blanks will see that nobody wants to see Joey harrington or DJ. The falcons will be like the rest of the atlanta sports teams “Sorry As Hell”.

By kbrab

July 26, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

I’m betting on 2 - 14, and it won’t even be that pretty.

By A-ville Ranger

July 26, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

The record without Vick—-one with integrity——with Vick—— one of shame.

By Gazoo

July 26, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

Nothing makes me more ill than the arrogance of someone that points to another person’s grammatical errors to infer that the person must be stupid.

That is a much more ignorant position that someone that missed a keystroke or may not have graduated from high school due to any wide variety of reasons that may not have been the person’s own making.

The fact is, some were provided a proper education and many grew up in blighted areas and did not get the same shake right out of the gate as some of us.

To imply becuase someone possibly was not given the same opportunities as you at an education and look down your nose at them sickens me.

Bradley, you suck.

By A-ville Ranger

July 26, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Greg Your observation that there’s something primevil about both football and dog fighting manages to be true,simple minded and amoral all at once. Bradley… I don’t think you’re an idiot,just painfully wrong headed and unimaginative.

By scope

July 26, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

OK, yes I’m an optimist, but I really think when expectations are low, the Falcons seem to do much better (and the other way around of course). I think Harrington will be mature, and I think Petrino will be cautious, yet add enough wrinkles to get the most out of this offense. Who knows what to expect defensively, but if they get lucky with injuries, I’d say this is a .500 team with a chance at the wild card.

Petrino was dealing with talent that was a step below the big schools and he fared well. I expect he’s in a similar situation here to when he took over L’ville. Yeah, its the pros, not college, but with the pro experience he has, I’d say football is football and he’s proved he can coach.

Oh, and Gazoo, I think you completely went overboard with you’re comment.

By UNDERDOG

July 26, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

I’ll kick your @$$, Mike Vick !

By RY

July 26, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

HEY DAVID DUKE, I see you are back with your big tough TYPING skills. I wonder how long it took you to come up with your very CREATIVE tag name. What are u a backyard wrestler? DumbA$$

By Terrence0258

July 26, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Keeping it short and sweet. No offensive playmakers, an average defense and a special teams unit that was horrible a year ago = 3-13 (4-12 if Petrino is as good as the masses claims he is)

By j

July 26, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

To those Joey harrington fans who thinks he’ll be good because of what he did at Oregon five years ago you must crazy. The PAC-10 doesn’t count they don’t play anybody. If he were that good he would have played in the REAL conferences( SEC,ACC,OR BIG TEN.)

By Don Turnout

July 26, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Let me tell y’all a few things about Joey Harrington. Pocket passer yeah but a good athlete, can move a bit. Does not take sacks. This guy can throw the coconut on a rope 50 yards. Tightest ball in the league said one WR. Threw a TD his first pass in Miami last year, pre season. BAM! Now this is what gets him in trouble, trying to fire the ball into tight spaces. Very confident QB. But if these WR’s can catch, the delivery is fast and the ball is coming at you!!

Now lets support this TEAM. He did not come here to take Michael’s job away. Musgrave the QB Coach, is also a former Duck. Hue Jackson worked with Palmer in Cincy, another Pac-10 QB who is pretty decent. Bonus- you may see Joey around town, he likes to get involved in the community. Pre Season: Joey is motivated to beat Jets and Bills. I am still predicting 8-8.

By dr. elsbree

July 26, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Please support your local animal shelter and police departments:

We have to take a stand for justice so our streets will be safer: Ron Artest, Jamaal Lewis, Latrell Spreewell, Pacman Jones, MICHAEL VICK and his brother Marcus, Chris Henry, Tank Johnson, Ray Lewis, OJ Simpson, Kobe Bryant, Mike Tyson……… “

Lets see… All above are respectable law abiding citizens who are educated, great leaders, good speakers in public, great dad’s, and wonderful role models for kids,

OR

A: Thugs, B: gangster heros C: pieces of human garbage D: drug users with STD’s or E: ALL THE ABOVE

By Jock Ewing

July 26, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Arthur looks like a complete fool for what the 10th time?!!?!

His siding with Vick and subsequent firing of Dan Reeves started the Vick downfall.

The hiring of Jim Mora was simply atrocious and Arthurs self admitted dreams about Rich McKay make me question not only his intelligence but his sexual preference as well.

I will take Taylor Smith over that sorry, stupid, but luckly Arthur Blank that did nothing but ride Bernie Marcus’ coattails anyway!!

Go to hell Arthur and Vick!!

By Chip

July 26, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

To those who say ‘LET VICK PLAY,” I really feel for you. If you truly believe that animals are mere items to possess and Vick should play because he didn’t hurt people, my goodness, I will pray for you dearly. It scares me to think that there are people in society who are this ignorant. Do you truly feel that it is okay for him to play because it didn’t involve people? Ignorance astounds me. I’m guessing some of you are the same who fought to keep the 1956 flag as our state flag, not even knowing that it wasn’t the first state flag. Please, get an education.

By word

July 26, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

Anyone else think we need to start calling out McKay…everyone thought he was a genius in Tampa and Dungy was holding them back…please!! Look at the Colts then look at this team….McKay, not Blank, is to fault for the makeup of this team….lets start calling him out…are you listneing Bradley, Moore, Schultz…etc

By cooper

July 26, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Hey Chip ..thanks for the enlightment about the state flag and all and now son why dont you come closer, say ahhh and have a mouthful of DEEZ!

By antonio

July 26, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

i think the falcons record will be better than many people think 8 and 8 or better.wonna bet?

By Timothy

July 26, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

With Mike the falcons make the playoffs.(11-5)With Joey the falcons will lose alot of games and the Georgia Dome will be empty.Afterward,most of the games will be blocked from tv because the dome isn’t selling out.The falcons will fall so far down hill that eventually Blank will sell the team.Thanks to these sorry a;s unforgiving,selfish,lowering than low fake dog loving SOB.My falcons are history.Go Cowboys!

By RDM

July 26, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

I’m predicting that the falcons will go 9-7 and All you racist haters to get another dose of the superior african american athlete after D.J. replaces Harrington to right the ship after a dismal 0-4 start. Let’s be honest this current situation goes alot deeper than dog fighting,A city once labeled “too busy to hate or be racist” never warmed to the idea it had a black quarterback leading its beloved Falcons. All of you sheetwearers better get prepared to start cheering black quarterbacks or stop watching NFL football altogether,because the tide is turning just like in other sports and you can’t stop the cream from rising to the top.Michael Vick already has multiple NfL records that will never be duplicated and he created a buzz never thought possible with the falcons,even then you wanted him ran out of town.There’s been many cases involving dogfights but none has ever been blown out of perspective as this one. At least be big enough to really admit why you A**holes want this guy gone. Just because he’s white Matt Schaub was not the answer either,Joey Harrington ? Get Real !!!

By Lori

July 26, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

I believe that Michael Vick is completely innocent of all charges that have been or will be brought against him. Think about this: When would he have time to dog fight? During seasons he has games, practices, and team related PR work. During off season he has practices, camps, and other related PR work. That means he would have little to no time to dog fight. However, I understand that it is ignorant for me to say that he is innocent. But isn’t that better and more mature of me than to go ahead a convict the man? I think so. I hope that the Falcon’s and Roger Goodell will allow him to play the regular season because Kobe Bryant was allowed to play during his criminal rape charges a few years back. It is INNOCENT until PROVEN GUILTY. Not the other way around.

Now about the season I feel that under Vick we will go 13-3, under Harrington we will sadly go 9-7 and if Shockley gets to play then maybe we will go 10-6. I just hope by some miracle that Vick is allowed to play. I hope he is cleared of these charges. As a Falcon fan or a fan of football in general I hope those of you out there feel the same as I do. Wouldn’t you hate to know you supported someone that committed these types of henious crimes? I definitely would.

Thanks for reading my rant and/or rave.

By hj

July 26, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

u white peaple got your quarterback. and the dome will be filled.ha!hA!

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Ry, hey foo. How’s everything on the other side of the tracks? Mad because yo boy gittin throed outa football? Too bad! Not only is he being thrown out of football, he’s going to prison KY. I’m elated to see this criminal be exposed for what he is and to have to suffer the consequences of his despicable actions. Blame the white man all you want but it was vick who engaged in dogfighting and he’s solely to blame for the position he finds himself in. The Federal prosecutor is going to bring more charges against him soon KY. The RICO statutes, against organized crime, will be applied to this case. Vick will spend years in prison. Believe me KY, Vick’s career in the NFL is toast! Now be gone foo!

By rlynn

July 26, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

RDM you’re a pathetic racist and it’s hard to believe that you actually saw the dunce play. How hard do think it was to defence the Falcons during last season’s playoff drive or was it the drive for Mikey’s meaningless record? If you lined up Tomlinson behind the center he would have got 2500 yards but how many games would the team have won? Remember it’s a TEAM.

By David Duke

July 26, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

Hey (R)eal (D)umb (M)ofo, superior African American athlete? Shockley will be cut before the season starts. He’s not a bonafide quarterback. He’s a University of Georgia loser whose talent is marginal at best. You are a marginal human being at best. Take a seat and shut yo mouth boy!

By crw

July 26, 2007 11:11 PM | Link to this

7 wins would be about right

Add 2 or 3 more to that number if the ‘organization’ had kept their quarterback of the future Schaub

Blame the Falcon owner and his management for putting the organization in this mess

I have never coached a football game in my life, and could see we were going nowhere with Vick—-he had his opporunity and never got any better—-of course he was a great runner, but running quarterbacks don’t take you to the Super Bowl

We need to move on and try to put this sorry mess behind us.

By logic

July 26, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

RDM,

Cream rising to the top…superior black athletes…sheet wearing racists….

These are deep thoughts aren’t they? Did you come up with these on your own?

Do you have the superior white boss continually ordering you to put more fries in the cooker…

Go ahead and live vicariously (look it up at Webster online) through Mikey Vickie with that chip on your shoulder.

Falcons finish 7-9 as a team!

By Najeh Davenpoop

July 26, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

I thought 8-8 was a realistic goal with Vick in uniform. Despite having the worst coaching staff in the league last year, the Falcons went 7-9 and were in playoff contention until the last two weeks of the season. The talent level on this year’s roster is about the same, if anything marginally better, but the new coaching staff is a huge upgrade. The main reason I didn’t think better than 8-8 was realistic is because it would take a while for the team as a whole to master the new system on both sides of the ball.

Without Vick, though, 5-11 seems like a more realistic target. I don’t think Harrington will be bad in this system. It’s not too much to expect him to provide a better QB rating than Schaub (69.2). But replacing Vick with Harrington not only means your passing attack is more limited, it also means you lose nearly half your rushing attack. Dunn, Norwood, and the defense (particularly the D-line) is going to have to play out of their minds in order for this team to have a shot at playoff contention.

By jarrodmon

July 27, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

I think no black person has EVER broken the law. Vick? Never! M. Jackson? K Bryant? O.J. Simpson? Never! It’s all a big conspiracy.

Love to see the black community supporting their worst element. It would be like us getting all weepy over the treatment of Timothy McVeigh.

With Mike “What’s a pocket pass?” Vick: 6-10

With a poor, but real, QB like Harrington: 8-8

By SCALD DAWG

July 27, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this

THE ORGAN GRINDER HAS HIS MONKEY SET UP FOR NOVEMBER TRIAL. THIS ACT OF VENGENCE THRU KANGAROO COURT IS VOLATILE & VINDICTIVE. THESE THREE V’S REPRESENT THE # OF WINS THAT THE FALCOONS WILL ACHIEVE THIS BOGUS SEASON. CONSIDERING THEIR DISMAL HISTORY, THREE WINS AIN’T BAD FOR THE FALCOONS. AMAZING THAT AMERICA FACES SUCH HUGE CHALLENGES ALL OVER THE WORLD & YET WE CHOOSE TO SPEND A BILLION DOLLARS BUSTING BLANK’S MONKEY.MONKEY MIKEY NEEDS TO SUMMON THE RACE CARD & PLAY IT LIKE REV JESSE DOING THE DIRTY BIRD. BAD FOREBODING IN FLOWERY BRANCH FOR SURE. SOMEBODY SAID THERE WAS NO SUCH THING AS BAD PUBLICITY BUT THE ORGAN GRINDER BEGS TO DIFFER.PETRINO IS SLICK ENOUGH TO RISE ABOVE THE STINK BUT HE DAMN SURE BETTER BE HOUDINI AND ESCAPE THIS FRANCHISE BEFORE IT BLOWS IT’S ON FOOT & HEAD OFF VIGOROUSLY & REPEATEDLY. ONCE AGAIN THE OLD TIME FALCON FANS HAVE BEEN KICKED IN THE KAHUNAS UNTIL WE ACTUALLY GET A THRILL OUT OF WATCHING IDIOTS MANAGE TO MARE THE REPUTATION OF THE WORST MANAGED FRANCHISE IN THE HISTORY OF ANY SPORTS FRANCHISE.DON’T FEEL SORRY FOR THE ORGAN GRINDER BECAUSE HE PULLED THE PLUG AND SLIT THE MONKEYS THROAT & IS RICHER THAN ALL THE FALCON FANS PUT TOGETHER. HARD TO FEEL BAD FOR THE MONKEY BECAUSE OF HIS MEDIA FRENZIED PORTRAYAL & HIS ZILLION DOLLARS AS WELL. IN THE LONG RUN,LET’S NOT SPEND A BILLION DOLLARS CONVICTING VICK. LET THE FALCONS WAIVE HIM & LET HIM SIT OUT A YEAR & WORK WITH DISABLED & ABANDONED ANIMALS. THEN HE CAN COME BACK & FIND A NEW ORGAN GRINDER. DAVIS IN OAKLAND JUST RELEASED HIS VERSION OF WHO LET THE DOGS OUT & IS KNOWN HAS ORGAN MASTER THE WORLD OVER.

By riiiii

July 27, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

So for some wild reason of a lot of peoples imaginations Joey Harrington will all of a sudden become a good qb and lead this team to the playoffs? Dang I must be in the twilight zone. This team will be so bad this year that it isnt funny. The defense sucked last year and they added two rookies so they probably wont be any better. The special teams made no improvments and they were horrible last year. We still have no good pass blocking lineman. The fact that Joey Harrington makes more bad decisions than the guy you dumb fans wanted out lets me know that this defense will stay on the field which means they wont be able to stop anybody. 5 WINS TOP.

By Ron Mexico

July 27, 2007 2:11 AM | Link to this

Eyes Mike V, and Eyes gets respected. If little doggies bleed, eyes wonts lets ‘em gets infected.

Blanks a foo, but he treats me like a sun. Unlike with Ole Yeller, eyes didnt use no gun.

Eyes dance on the sidelines in my tight white pantz. Shakin’ my booty like its covered in antz.

Yalls cheer for number 7, wis all my skillz. Eyes gets paid lots o’ money, So I can pay dem billz.

Blank will go broke withouts Mike Vicks. With no MV7, the Falcons wont win mo’ than 6!

By drew

July 27, 2007 6:50 AM | Link to this

With Vick’s departure the Falcons have become a better TEAM. He never was (and now, he never will be) a pro-calibur quarterback.

It’s like Christmas in July! The dogfighting scandal is probably the ONLY WAY the Falcons would have been able to rid themselve’s of this no-class, piece of scum, thug.

I don’t care if the Falcons go 0-16 this year, in the long run they will be a better TEAM without the albatross named Mike Vick.

Prediction: 7-9

By DOG LOVER

July 27, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

If I ever came across a bunch of STUPID people it’s here in Atlanta and across the stupid USA. for example place yourself in a position of being accused of any crime, are you guilty once someone name you for a crime? GUILTY you STUPID people in Atlanta and across the stupid USA. I bet if any one of you stupid people had any one accused you of a crime you would do what? claim your innocents, no that is not how it works in this land of prejudiced. Joey H. can’t carry Mick Vick plastic water bottle. he is a bust and has always been a bust. I will not watch a falcon game on TV this year without Vick, I will not attend any games because there is no Mike Vick. Falcons football and Joey H. get real, start D.J. he’s way better than than this bust Joey. oh, my bad, the prejudiced people and the stupid, across america want this. PLEASE, when Vick is cleared of this horrible crime, I hear some a holes talk that he will never suit up for another NFL team. GET REAL PEOPLE, VICK IS THE MAN. if he never plays for ATLANTA AGAIN, I WILL NEVER BECOME A FALCON FAN, AFTER BEING A FALCON FAN ALL MY LIFE . IF VICK ISN’T GOING TO PLAY AGAIN FOR THE DIRTY BIRDS, THERE ARE PLENTY OF NFL TEAMS THAT WOULD TAKE HIM, BELIEVE THAT , ONE MORE THING, I HOPE Joey GET SACKED SO MANY TIMES HE GETS INJURED WITH HIS NON PRODUCTIVE BEHIND FOR THE YEAR. IT HURTS TO TALK ABOUT MY USE TO BE TEAM THIS WAY , BUT YOU STUPID PEOPLE ACROSS AMERICA AND STUPID PEOPLE IN ATLANTA. DOG BITE VICK’S AZZ.

By Dee

July 27, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

It’s sad. You racist posters are pathetic, emotionally-stunted human garbage. The realization in knowing that you have to post your drivel anonymously due to the fact that you’d get killed out in the real world must be mentally castrating to you and your children. Keep dreaming, you “brave” souls.

By Nique

July 27, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

First off all of you people on Matt Schaub’s joke, you all will ALL get see how overrated he is this year, (but of course you’ll have an excuse as to why he wasn’t successful) 2cnd Vick WILL PLAY AGAIN IN THE NFL, anyone who thinks that he won’t is not naive! (he’ll get convicted of conspiracy & let off on trafficking across stat lines. Which means he’ll get 18 months probation, close to the largest fine he can get, & he’ll get a 8 game suspension from the league) Then lastly the falcons would have went 11-5 with Vick this year & will go 8-8 without him. Harrington is better than people think he is, he was just in bad situations before (I actually have more confidence in him than i did in Matt Schaub) but in reality the teams best option would be to let D.J. Shockley have a honest chance to beat out Joey (which i believe that he could or at least be really competitive with him) This would do a number of things, 1. Unite the city behind the QB position, provide strong support for the team from the city again, allow the Qb who i see as the eventual Qb of the future for this franchise (Unfortunately, since it should be Vick unless he’s indicted, but the city of Atl doesn’t want him, never did & never will)to go ahead & evolve sooner than later, & lastly give the falcons the best chance to win this year, by allowing Petrino to implement a large variety of the playbook that he came to Atl to display, (DJ’s not Mike, BUT THEN AGAIN NO ONE IS!) He however is the same style of Qb, only more willing to throw & reads defenses better.

By Vick SHALL Return

July 27, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

Vick WILL Return to the NFL, Fools!

You all will surely know it is him when you seez him on Sunday at the Dome in his clean, new uniform and hear him say:

“Bud-wei-ser! Get yo’ Bud-wei-ser! “

ConVICKted felons can still peddle alcohol once they serve their time, right?

By Vick = The KKK of Animals

July 27, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this

Dee, what are you going to do, POP A CAP in anyone who disagrees with your [ ahem ] “superior” intellect?

By Dee

July 27, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

KKK, I’m not a violent or intolerant person, I just love pointing out the ones that preach it. Like they say, “a hit dog will holler”.

By Chrissie

July 27, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

why are we even talking about the falcons record after vick? as a fan, the falcons have never had a really stellar record that i can recall. vick, the 130 million dollar man, has simply never delivered. 8-8 is mediocre at best. i think this new qb has a lot of potential and is also willing to be part of a team. something vick never could handle. i think this could be a very cohesive unit with petrino at the helm.

i’d say expect 8-8 if not better.

By Boots

July 27, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Being retired and having time to waste on this drivel, I’m concerned about the ‘07 Falcons, but not obsessed by them.

My greater concern is with the educational system in this city , state and country that turns out kids that cannot form logical syllogisms and construct simple sentences with appropriate grammar.

NO WONDER WE HAVE WHAT APPEARS TO BE A PERMANENT UNDERCLASS!

Go Falcons and do your best. That’s all that can be expected.

By WhoFlungDung

July 27, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Here’s hoping Petrino (the midnight flyer who tried to stab Tubberville in the back) goes 0-16 this season. Here’s also hoping that Vick gets put under the jail for a long, long time.

By UnHappyFan

July 27, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Said by someone :NO WONDER WE HAVE WHAT APPEARS TO BE A PERMANENT UNDERCLASS!

Who do you think the target audience for Falcon football is? You don’t think Blank was calculated do you?

I’m not one who agrees race with respect to charges around Vick. But.. Who else is struck funny by this Arthur/Vick combo? What in the HELL could the two have in common…

Years from now, after all the dust settles, it could be the ownership of the Falcons now looks unethical. The movie ‘trading places’ comes to mind.

By Jim P.

July 27, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Lets see, I would like to be the optimist, but the I realize and am planning for a 4-12 or 5-11 season. I am afraid that Arizona, Tampa and Detriot will have better records than us this year. BUT… the optimist side says IF the Top picks like Joey, the WR’s Roddy and Jenkins can jell with the help of Joe Horn and Alge Crumpler, I see a better record. If Joey can get confidence early in the season, and the O line can keep sacks to a minimum, we can go 8-8, and maybe as high ans 10-6. I know, I know, maybe its a pipe dream, but there is a better chance of a 10-6 season, than there is for Vick in a Falcons Uniform this year.

By Jim P.

July 27, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Nearing the end of Last season, I wrote more than once, Trade Vick and keep Mora. Well, after further review, Letting Mora go, may have been a good thing. Trading Vick….I was right about that!

Good Luck Bobby and Joey! I will support you both even if we are 0-16 or 1-15.

By Boots

July 27, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

UnHappyFan: Based on 40 years of experience working with “at-risk” families, those who can least afford it buy into brand consciousness and waste their meager assets on over-priced athletic shoes, jerseys, rims of junk automobiles, necklaces, fast food, CD’s, DVD’s and electronic mind numbing games. **Pro athletes and raptsters are idolized by this constituency because they are able to amass “stuff”.

I sure wish these youngsters could choose worthy role models to emulate, but after 40 years must admit to only marginal success. They are drawn to the gangster and thug image, ignore the importance of education and preparation and are doomed to idolize from afar while continuing to live on the margins.

The social ramifications of these choices are far-reaching and frightening.

Nothing is more pathetic than a fallen hero.

By Jim A.

July 27, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

I am confused about the Vick case and how it got to its present state.

When and why did this case metamorphose from initially a drug investigation to dog fighting investigation at a county level to an interstate federal investigation?

I was surprised when the Feds entered the case and aggressively, as detailed in the indictment, identified participants, locales, and intimate details of the purported crime.

What prompted the Feds to intercede in this situation and how did they gather so much detail in what seemed to have been a sleepy case where the local DA could properly get or execute a search warrant. Why weren’t the local authorities and the Feds working together?

May I respectfully suggest that AJC reporters do some investigative work and desist with the personalization of the news? I am just like Will Rogers: “All I know is what I read in newspapers”.

By Tom

July 27, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

I think with Vick, the Falcons go 7-9. The only team in our division that hasn’t figured him out are the Panthers. They over pursue on the line creating running lanes for him. Everyone else clogs up running lanes and waits for his poor decisions to alter the game. I think the Patrick Ewing theory from Sports Illustrated will happen, and the Falcons go 9-7 and make the playoffs. After that, hopefully the reprobate and his thug supporters never come to the Dome again!

By Al Davis

July 27, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

7-9 without Vick….6-10 with Vick…Vick would not have played all the games this year anyway. Amidst all the discussion about the dog fighting, people forget Vick was on his way out anyway. He will not be convicted, yet he will never play again. This is because he is simply not good enough.

By hotrod

July 27, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

vick 0-16 harrington 8-8 shockley 9-7

By David Duke

July 27, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Yesterday was a wonderful day. Vick entered a plea of not guilty but that will change shortly. His co-defendants will roll over on him to save their own felonious skins. The Feds are going to, sooner rather than later, add more serious charges to his indictment. Those charges will concern organized crime, which is what Vick was involved in. Under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act Vick could be looking at a decade in prison. The Falcons will terminate his contract in the next few weeks because they don’t want to pay the felon for sitting behind bars. I love it! The Falcons will go 10-6 and make the playoffs with Joey. Go Joey! You are the white man for the job.

By Dubya

July 27, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Well Mark,

That really works for me. With Brees, Bush, and co. in New Orleans there’s absolutely NO WAY the birds will win the South, better yet, win the wildcard, go the playoffs at all. I think that the best thing we can hope for, regardless of how bad it sounds, is to hope for a bad record and a high draft picks. With two 2nd rounders, we could trade to get two 1st rounders. What’s to say we can’t land a Brian Brohm/Jake Long/Darren McFadden with a top pick, then trade up to get Chad Henne/Sam Baker/DeSean Jackson? In my mind, that’s what we need the most. I don’t think we’ll the the #1 pick, but top five is just as good. Dear God, look what we did with the last #1 pick we had…….

Harrington is overrated, always was- always is, always will be. He’s good for clean up duty, and a quality backup. THAT’S IT!

By Curious George

July 27, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Are all you VICK SUPPORTERS going to get all mad, riot and steal a bunch of ‘throwback’ football jerseys and TV sets when (not ‘if’, WHEN) your “god” Mike Vick is convickted and sent to federal, pound-me-in-the-AZZZZ prison?

By David Duke

July 27, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Curious George, you are absolutely correct. Vick’s loyal fans don’t adhere to the laws any more than their hero does. When he signs his plea deal and heads off to the confines of the Federal pokey his fans are going to raise hell and claim racism. Hell, they’re doing that now but it’s not going to work. He will never play in the NFL again. One thing they’ve failed to consider is that there are witnesses who have provided tons of information on Vick’s criminal activity. One of those witnesses is Davon Boddie, Vick’s cousin. The Feds could not have presented their charges with such specificity without his help. Bye Vick. Cry big ole tears and rob and demonstrate rabble.

By David Duke

July 27, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

I remember when Vick first came into the league and all you ‘true’ Falcons’ fans cheered for Chandler to be hurt so vick could play. This is payback suckers!

By Word

July 27, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

HAHA…good point Curious George…what are the odds if Vick is convicted that his “supporters” take to the streets and riot? I’ll take that bet…and the funny thing is they do it in their own neighborhoods…

By Slinky

July 27, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

I am not worries about blackouts, the season is soldout by the huggers and the real fans will support the team in coming years.

By Grazzzzzhoper

July 27, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

I hate ALL YALL white people! Yall gave Mike Vick all that money and kept puttin all them timtations to break yalls STUPID WHITE MAN laws in front of him until he gave in and then yall stabbed him in the back. Leave the man alone!!!! Buncha racists ALL YALL!!!!!!!! Yall needs to feel the rage of the VICK NATION!!!!! Yall will be sorry!!!!!!!

FREE VICK !!!!!!!!!!

By Boots

July 27, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Vick will probably face additional federal charges, very possibly the RICO charges which will confiscate everything they deem to be derived from ill-gotten gain.

I doubt Algonquin J. Calhoun, the DA of Surry county will do anything,* but the wrath of the Almighty will fall on him when the Internal Revenue gets through with him for tax evasion.*

By David Duke

July 27, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Hopper, he will be freed, on parole, in ten years or so. Keep hatin’ Snowball!

By Grazzzzzhoper

July 27, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

AAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

July 27, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

My Honer, my clyent, the party of the furs part, proclame his innosense an thro hisself on de murcy o de court. De tru culprit o all dis mess is Mr. Atrer Blanks. He give my clyent milliuns of dollar to makes a foo o hissef.

By Jake Bogartis

July 27, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

Hip-Hop, Gangsta Rap, who cares if there’s a difference? Nobody who matters gives a damn!

All EITHER amounts to is a platform to justify being unemployed, hang’n on street corners, being on welfare, selling drugs, and pretty much being a societal loser…

Oh yeah, and dog fighting!!

By Rutuger

July 27, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

::Blessing in Disguise::

Finally, all of the bandwagoneer Vick fans will vanish, and the actual Falcon fans will remain and come home to roost.

(See comments of the following type: “who care VICK is man he gon see Soopa bowl then i go bye that jersee instead .Hope falcon lose all there game!!! haterzz”)

We’re gald to finally see you leave… Now true fans of this team won’t suffer any further embarrassment from your fairweatherism and lack of football knowledge!

GO FALCONS!!!

By Rutuger

July 27, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

These “Vick can do no wrong” people are the exact same clueless bafoons cheering and screaming in the Dome when we’re on offense.

Good riddance!

By David Duke

July 27, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

It’s all over for Ookie now! Nike and Reebok have dropped him and they’re not going to pay the fool anymore. A few weeks ago, when the summary of the investigation was issued without a direct reference to Vick, you fools started talking all that innocent garbage. Because his name wasn’t mentioned, you got on here and crowed about how he would not be indicted. Wrong! He’s been charged with two Federal felonies and other Federal felony charges will soon be added. He will be cut from the Falcons shortly and he’s going to cut a deal with the Fedsw which will give him about 5-10 years to serve. Yo boy is thru!

By David Duke

July 27, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

Here’s a shocker: Tony Taylor, a member of Vick’s crew and also one of his co-defendants is entering into a plea deal with the government. He’ll be back in court on Monday. You can bet he’ll be a star witness against Vick if he’s stupid enough to gut this out and go to trial. Told ya so!

By Mr T

July 27, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

Maybe if Mike would have layed of the pot and have put forth some effort the last couple of years, this whole scandal would have went away. I can’t imagine if the Falcons went 12-4 and 13-3 with a Super bowl berth the last two years this would be as big of a deal. It would have been payed of like the water bottle Miami airpot incident, which is obvious. What kind of idiot would fight dogs for a $22,000 purse after signing a over $100 million dollar contract?? It must be the pot!

By David Duke

July 28, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

Mark, a record with Vick now becomes moot. He will not be available to play for several years and the Falcons are going to release him soon to save money and sanity. this will be the best thing for the team. They will realize that it’s one for all and not all for one any longer. I see this team coming together and giving it everything and winding up with an 11-5 record. Initially, I ventured a 10-6 record but I have the feeling they’ll be a bit better than that. No one expects much from them, so they have nothing to lose, and everything to gain, by putting it into hyper-drive right out of the parking lot. I think they will be a team and they’ve not been that since an ugly presence materialized here some six years ago. Go Falcons!!!!!