Sports Columnists

By BT

August 16, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Excellent story Mark. Although I believe he is guilty the whole situation is very sad.

By Dawgs2007

August 16, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Mark, don’t be such a cry baby. It is what is is and he gets what he deserves. He has ruined the Falcons.

By Don Keeballz

August 16, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

OH What a fun season we are in for. We have a career loser for a QB at the helm. Look out 8-8 here we come. At least I can watch UGA on Saturdays to get my football fix.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

As do I. I cheered and called my best friend when the Falcons traded for the rights to draft Vick. I had 2 Vick jerseys and a pair of Zoom Vick IIs. When everyone talked trash about him, I stood behind him, telling people why he was a good quarterback and how all the other mistakes he had made were just bad judgment.

No longer. When this came down, I was at first disappointed, but now I am angry. Angry and pis*ed off that he let down the fans (especially season-ticket holders), his teammates, coaches and owner, and the entire city of Atlanta.

What a jerk. If he could’ve just done the right thing (or not done some really wrong things), we’d be cheering for him in 11 days when we see the Bengals. Yes, he’ll be wearing a uniform that night. But instead of a red-and-black Falcons uniform, he’ll be clad in an orange jumpsuit.

Sad, it truly is. But anger is most of what I feel at this point.

Once the anger subsides, it’s time to focus on being optimistic about the future. It is indeed time to move on.

By Brooklyn Falcon

August 16, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Theres nothing worse in this world than wasted talent

By Wes

August 16, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Dude,

Feel sad for the dogs who were trained to kill each other, and when they didn’t, were killed at the hands of Vick and his “friends.”

Feel sad for the hundreds, probably thousands, of kids that look up to Vick, and have to wonder why their hero isn’t playing this season.

Feel sad for the parents who have to explain to those kids why, even though their hero is involved in it, dog fighting is illegal, and why they shouldn’t follow in their hero’s footsteps.

Feel sad for the coach and his entire staff who left good jobs for a chance to mold an incredible athelete into an incredible quarterback, only to find out that they will, most likely, never be on the same field with the guy.

Feel sad, yes, but feel sad for the right people.

By 101875

August 16, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Sadly it is a reality in that PEOPLE will let you down no matter WHO or WHAT they are. It is a indictment against our culture that kids and some adults make athletes their role model. When is the last time a DOCTOR or NURSE or SCIENTIST or SCHOOL TEACHER was the object of a kids affection as a hero?

By Charlie

August 16, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

I also am sad / disappointed at how this will probably turn out. He seemed like a nice guy and a great football player…too bad he had a hidden scummy/disgusting side that will over shadow all his talents. Hopefully when this is done he will crawl under a rock a go away

By Hasavior

August 16, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

This is the best article yet that has some human approach to this entire matter.

there is no speculation orlynch mob guilty until proven innocent verdicts.

No personal interjections or salivating verbal torture.

This was right on point.

By Football Fan

August 16, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

The only thing sad about this is what the dogs had to endure under his watch. Who cares what Vick is “going thru”. He shows no compassion and deserves absolutely the same in return.

By chad

August 16, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Your column yesterday was one of your best ever. It’s a shame that he has gotten himself in this sort of mess. He was about to get some quality coaching from a QB guy like Petrino and now we’ll never get to see what he truly could have been. While i’m not happy with what he has done to himself and the organization, I do feel sorry for him. I don’t get all the anger being directed at him from a lot of people. What he’s allegedly done is terrible but humans make mistakes and he will face the consequences. You have to eventually forgive the guy and try to help him.

By Hasavior

August 16, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

I beleive he is guilty in terms of being responsible for the property and house that was in his name.

It was not wise to purchse that property before he was drafted in 2001 and move straight to the ATL afterwards leaving those guys in the house knowing they from the hood.

I dont by the killing dogs and gross extent of illegal gambling. the co-defendants will account to all of the killed dogs and the activity at the house.

By fred

August 16, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Bradly - you weenie. You are backing up faster than Micheal Jackson on a cub scout. I am glad you have enjoyed swapping spit with Vick but try to remember this is a man who is guilty ( spare me the legal formalities and look at the facts ) of felonies. Not to mention just plain SICK. Vick is Sick.

By your phreaking daddy

August 16, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

oh yeah, i, too, am broken hearted over that thugs fall to earth….NOT

he is getting what he deserves for being a violence driven gangster wannabe and hanging around with same….

By Connie Lingous

August 16, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Mark Bradley - maybe it would liven your mood a little bit away from the sadness if you went back to wearing your hair poofy for a few days.

By King

August 16, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

They should’ve never gave him money!

By greg

August 16, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Vick is a liar and a thug,,,,makes no difference what color he is. He has destroyed the falcons salary cap, lied to his team mates Blank, and all of america. What was his excuse for flipping off “his” fans,or the excuse for the blunt smoking pick,,, or the excuse for the “Ron Mexico” scandle, and I guess if I kept my jewelry in a water bottle it would smell like weed too. Lets move on,,,,, Vick will enjoy prison,,, that is where he and his “possy” belong. They will be cool with there bandanas, tatoos, toothpicks. I’m ready for inercity kids, to have true roll modles, and get rid of these excuse making thugs. This hole ordeal is a joke,,,, get his a$$ out of the papers and off the tv; the gangbanger got caught, let him do his time,,,,,,,he’s a fake, let the Falcons heal, and let Vick fit into the society he want to be in.

By Theedge

August 16, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

What ever in the world does that mean? If he pleads guilty that means he did what ever the charges are he is pleading to. It is not about getting a lesser sentence by pleading guilty when you are innocent it is about pleading guilty when you know you are guilty to a lesser charge and getting lesser time by saving the time and money involved in a court case and taking responsibility for your actions. With the resources he has for anyone to think a guilty man is gonna plead guilty is foolish.

We have to see what charges he pleas to if he pleas

By Rick

August 16, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Have you noticed that the folks that defend vick cannot write or spell. they cannot construct a single sentence. It has to be wonderful going thru life that stupid. Too dumb to really know what is going on, ignorance is bliss.In the indictment, it said Mike retrieved a book bag with $23,000 to pay off for a lost bet. He was involved in gambling right there. Lifetime ban from the NFL for that act alone.Also, if you read the indictment, his dogs must have trained like he did because they lost a lot of fights, he could not even win at that.His “Crew” from the hood sure stood beside him. Took a whole week for them to roll over on him. What wonderful friends.

By Reggie

August 16, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Mark,

That was the truth. It really is sad. I am upset with him for putting himself in that situation but more upset that this allows all the “good southern gentleman” to crawl out from under their rocks.

By Karl R.

August 16, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Mr. Bradley, why do you feel sorry for someone who had the world by the tail … and then threw it away through sheer ignorance and arrogance?

Why do you like a “person” who, apparently, engaged in such barbaric activites?

Why do you - like the rest of the pathetic jock sniffers who worship at Vick’s throne - give No. 7 ALL of the credit for the team’s successes, and NONE of the blame for its failures?

Are you trying to show the bigots who support Vick that you’re down for the “the cause”? Are you auditioning for a position on the Democrats’ Presidential ticket?

If so, you must tell us: boxers, briefs … or Depends?

By Chris

August 16, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

At least when his contract gets voided, the Falcons will gain a lot of money under the salary cap. That should help us out for pursuing free agents the next couple of years.

Couple of good OL available in ‘08. Here’s the complete list:

http://www.footballsfuture.com/freeagents.html

Thanks, Mikey! Now we can spread the love around instead of having it all tied up in 1 player.

By Marcus

August 16, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

kudos, Mr. Bradley. No one wins from this. I believe that everyone involved learn from this sad episode, even as the defendants serve for their roles in the sordid affair. One can only hope that in time, those who participated and those who are so harsh in judgement will find solace in forgiveness and repentance.

By Brownthrasher

August 16, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

If Mary Winkler, who was convicted of manslaughter in the shotgun slaying of her minister husband was freed Tuesday after serving 67 days in custody, then Vick, who has no criminal record should be able to serve a year or less for his activity in the alledged dog fighting. HUMANS vs DOGS. Who should serve more time???????

By Dan Reeves

August 16, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

What did Arthur Blank know and when did he know it?

When Arthur Blank gave Michael Vick a ten year $130 MILLION DOLLAR contract, did he NOT know what kind of person Vick was? (Is that even possible?) Or DID Blank know what Vick did in his free time and pretended not to know?

This is a reasonable line of inquiry that should be pursued.

What did Arthur Blank know and when did he know it?

By Jason

August 16, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

The destination of bad choices is unwanted consequences. If he is found guilty or takes a plea deal, no pity. Hope price is bearable.

By Big Ed

August 16, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

I think at some point in time Michael started to believe that the guy who put a “Superman” tattoo on his body actually was Superman. No matter what he did in life would bounce off him. In his own words before all of this came out he said ” everybody all over the world loves Michael Vick.” I think that is why he has denied everything up to this point. I think he feels like the Michael Vick lovers would look the other way and the Michael Vick haters would bounce off of him. Well the Feds do not bounce off of anybody. The world would have been much quicker to forgive him if he would have come clean in the beginning. Now Superman is about to loose his power. It’s been reported that he is negotiating with the Feds and the NFL. If this is the case he still doesn’t get it. He should be worried about his life and his life only beause the Feds don’t care what you do for a living. This is the real world not fantasy.

By ToeKnee

August 16, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Well unlike a lot of people apparently, I actually liked your articles. I originally put “enjoyed” there, but as you stated, I cannot enjoy anything about this. I still think that Michael Vick really had no idea just how bad dogfighting was. If any informed person would have told him of these consequences, i doubt he would have done it, or at least distanced himself more from it. I think he really just thought of it pretty casually, as he always had growing up. He probably thought a fine maybe, and probably not from the NFL. This really is tragic. He should be in the prime of not just his career, but his LIFE! and instead he’s doomed to spend the rest of it recovering from this. Good luck Michael! If I were you, I’d pray, because at this point, that might be the only guy on your side. I really do hope that things turn out alright for you; as sad as it is what happened to those dogs, whats happening to you right now is much harder for me to watch. my heart goes out to you michael.

By Sly

August 16, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

You were obviously wrong, Mark. Your neighbor may be a serial killer, too. It happens.

But vick deserves a lot more than he’ll probably get. The fact that he’s ruined his life will have to suffice.

By Mr. Whistler

August 16, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Thank You Mike, God Bless you, Given a one year prison sentence Michael Vick will need to only serve half or less, on good behavior to be released. The guy clearly needs his head check out, and PR for this image (whats left) get a life, Apologize to Commissioner, NFL Players & Fan.And especially to the Atlanta Falcons. I feel for you guys and the owner. Hang in there.

By beth

August 16, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

this text will be bolded What do you know about dog fighting ? How do they condition these dogs to kill each other ?

The answer is that they “practice” them on smaller dogs who are likely to fight back - jack russells, cairns, other terriers. Once the dog is conditioned to shredding the smaller dog, then they can start them fighting on bigger opponents.

Where do these bait dogs come from ?

They are stolen, they are “free to a good home” and they come from strays and shelters.

It’s not just that a child’s sport hero has been fighting dogs - it’s that he has engaged in a “sport” in which this same child’s beloved pet was fed to the fighting dogs for practice.

By NASDAQ

August 16, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

I too was elated when I heard that the falcons were drafting Vick, and I still belive that he is the best player that I’ve ever seen in an Atlanta uniform. I feel sorry for the human life that was ruined because of a mistake. If Vick had say….. murdered his wife and child, perhaps I would feel the outrage that some of these dog lovers feel. I don’t condone fighting dogs, chickens, or any other animal, but when a man gets more criticism for dogfighting, than an athelete that murdered his family, there is a real problem in this country.

By WJ

August 16, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

It would be nice if everyone could just put race aside and deal with issues. I too am sorry and saddened by Vick’s situation. However, we must learn to let this thing go and let it move forward according to the schedules set forth by the NFL and the court system. None of us can do anything about the situation. It will be what it will be. I hope Vick has learned a great lesson and if given another shot at football that he will make different friends and different choices. He does have talent but I’m still not convinced of his ability to be a superbowl quarterback. Who knows?

By mountain jim

August 16, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

“I have never believed that, as a player, he was anything but a first-rate quarterback. And yes, I said a quarterback, as opposed to a glorified running back. I’ve seen him throw the ball too well too often to buy into that canard. I’ve seen him win too many games — as an NFL starter, last season was his first with a losing record, and I believe that was a function of lousy coaching — to consider himself anything but an on-field asset.”

Thanks for saying that. I agree, and I had so looked forward to seeing him prove his doubter’s wrong this year with this new staff.

Selfishly I know, I am sad for me that I don’t get to see him prove his abilities to the doubters and don’t get to revel in the excitement he brought to the games.

I am sad for him because I don’t believe he is as bad a person as the dog revelations make it appear he is, but he did bring this on himself.

I am sad because this has given many a racist around here a forum to beat on him mercilessly while acting so sanctimonious about protecting the rights of dogs, while these folks still kill animals (hunting in the fall) and eat animals(every freaking day) and fail to give those animals the same right they give for these fighting dogs. (I am a vegitarian myself).

I would like MV back if he makes this right and serves his time, and I would still like to see him prove to those who believe he sucked as a QB wrong.

I know no other Falcon who ever tried harder to will his defectively coached teams to win as Mike did last year.

By Kris G

August 16, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

This is exactly how I’ve seen this situation. A lot of the racial tension surrounding this case has come from watching people take such unadulterated joy in this man’s fall, and any sadness the black community has felt has led to attacks by the less sensitive mainstream. Followed by blame for the OJ and Kobe cases, and making that connection is where I see the racism start to show it’s head… No Robert Blake or Rodney King verdict connections are ever made when white guys get off. I fully believe that Vick should be punished according to the law in this case, and yes, I’m angry that he let so many people down. I’m angry he lied, I’m angry he hurt the Falcons. But I don’t have to jump on him and try to exacerbate the process to feel like I’ve done my part. The unfortunate thing is that everybody who has met Vick seems to have some amount of compassion for him, but so many people who have never met him have reduced everything he is to the “thug” racial epithet. His lack of comfort in front of cameras has translated, for most Americans, to making him a black stereotype. It’s very typical for people to fill in the blanks with their own baggage over time, and that more than anything is what has always made Vick divisive. The thing is, all celebrities who make mistakes have advocates, but when that celebrity is black, and those advocates are black, a vile dismissive attitude takes over, as if it’s our lack of sophistication rather than our connection with the figure that drives us. I can’t tell you how disappointed I am in the US and the city of Atlanta for that lack of understanding, after all this time, and all we’ve seen. This article, coming from you, has more validity with most than if Terrence Moore had been the compassionate columnist.

By Mr. B

August 16, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

I love Michael VicKKK!

By Cairo

August 16, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Mark,

I am glad somebody around the AJC has a set of balls! I felt the sincerity in clearing that up. This is a Human Being first. People forget that part and also who else can boast of only having one losing season as the starter of this once laughing stock on a team, but we seem to forget that because of what we READ and HEAR daily. I am sadden about this situation MV put himself in and I just hope we can forgive and move on. Everybody has their opinion like they NEVER did anything wrong. The only difference is he got caught up and most of us did not.

By jd

August 16, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

To the people that say he deserves what he gets for making dogs fight I say…..he who is with out sin cast the first stone! How ever you feel about the situation I put more energy into people than animals. It is funny even in the movies directors can kill the entire cast and no one cares, but kill lassie and everyone is upset? When did animals become more important than humans or human suffering?

By Darrin "The Vent King"

August 16, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Maybe you could teach that leech T. Moore this is why people are showing love for him, it’s called COMPASSION and FORGIVENESS, not “blind loyalty” as he likes to disrespect the African-American race in ATL with his sensationlistic way of describing it. I can’t believe that j*ckazz is black. Why it bothers him so that people have that “love” for Vick is beyond me. They feel bad for him, just like anyone who cared for something has done before. I guess to him, you’re only allowed to feel that way if it’s a direct relative or something. I’m sure everyone has messed up before, so to watch these judgemental, highly hypocritical, self-righteous fake dog-lovers rip Vick when they go home to their Meth and crack after work everyday is sickening. Half of the people criticizing KNOW they have bigger bones in their closet. To the TRUE animal lovers, what Vick did was dead wrong and he should and will pay. Vick will be justifibly, if guilty, punished. Only children would cheer this sad situation. It’s bad for the dogs, Vick and his family, the Falcon fans, Blank and Goodell. Making light of this with tasteless dog jokes and stating that you wish death on him makes you worse than what Vick has supposedly done.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

August 16, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Maybe you could teach that leech T. Moore this is why people are showing love for him, it’s called COMPASSION and FORGIVENESS, not “blind loyalty” as he likes to disrespect the African-American race in ATL with his sensationlistic way of describing it. I can’t believe that j*ckazz is black. Why it bothers him so that people have that “love” for Vick is beyond me. They feel bad for him, just like anyone who cared for something has done before. I guess to him, you’re only allowed to feel that way if it’s a direct relative or something. I’m sure everyone has messed up before, so to watch these judgemental, highly hypocritical, self-righteous fake dog-lovers rip Vick when they go home to their Meth and crack after work everyday is sickening. Half of the people criticizing KNOW they have bigger bones in their closet. To the TRUE animal lovers, what Vick did was dead wrong and he should and will pay. Vick will be justifibly, if guilty, punished. Only children would cheer this sad situation. It’s bad for the dogs, Vick and his family, the Falcon fans, Blank and Goodell. Making light of this with tasteless dog jokes and stating that you wish death on him makes you worse than what Vick has supposedly done.

By pam

August 16, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Yes, Poor Poor Vick…….His 130 million dollar contract, his endorsements…poor Vick. We should all feel so sorry for him. Give me a break! Let’s not waste our time worrying about the Falcon’s team, the coaches, the owner, the poor pits that were put to death. Let’s all close our eyes to Vick’s “rape stand”, the drownings, the beatings, the torture of helpless animals. Poor Poor Michael Vick.

By JB

August 16, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Excellent column, Mark! You summed up my feelings entirely!! Everyone that is close to him can’t believe he did all that is described in the indictment. Even Chris Mortenson said as much on talk radio yesterday. I don’t and won’t believe that Vick ordered the killing of dogs. The only proof that they have is the confession of lying career convicts and criminals. Which leads to the REAL crime that Michael committed: Not knowing when to cut bait on unsavory friends! I know it’s tough when these were the guys that took your fights, gave you money and generally watched your back while you were growing up(and for those that weren’t raised in that environment may not understand what was done). They kept you from a lot while you went to practice and kept the neighborhood thugs off of your back. But, if they REALLY love you they wouldn’t hound you after you get successful and drag you down to their level! It’s a tough lesson for Michael, but life is a marathon, not a sprint! Even though people are saying all types of disdainful things about him, if it’s for him to have another opportunity at becoming all that he can in the NFL it will happen. And, the really sad part about it, it will be much to the chagrin of elitist and self righteous morons that will not want him to have another chance! Thank God that they can’t stop it!!

By Art Gumeraser

August 16, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

There’ll always be a job for Mike at Guantánamo!

By Brownthrasher

August 16, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

The Falcons will be half a team without Vick. And Warrick Dunn, regardless of how you felt, you should NEVER have said the NO ONE WANTS TO SEE VICk BACK!!!! What is a TEAM for? If that’s the attitude of the players and you are speaking for the players, then shame on all of you for passing judgment. Babineaux???? Williams??? Let’s pray and hope that none of you do anything wrong. I hope he learns from this mistake, whether guilty or not, and realize that there is a greater lesson in all of this. He has to self examine himself, his friends, his decisions, and move forward. He won’t be the same man after this but that doesn’t mean that he can’t recover. I have sons in their 20s and they still make dumb choices. Life is about lessons and learning from them. I think Mike will be a better person for it all. If the Falcons don’t want you, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES. I will cheer you whereever your next destination takes you. Let’s hope that your career can rebound.

By KSZ

August 16, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

It disappoints me to see that in both your column today and yesterday you ignore the plight of the poor animals who were tortured and killed at the hands of Michael Vick and his associates. How must they have felt as they were beaten, electrocuted, raped, and drowned? Do you feel sad for them as you should? You have plenty of compassion for a privileged athelete who had the world at his finger tips and full control over his destiny but display none for the innocent animals who suffered under his domination and control. Michael Vick had options, he had choices and he made the wrong ones. He must and should be forced to live with the consequences. The dogs he tortured had no choices and they suffered greatly from the choices Vick so poorly made. So yes, feel sad - but feel sad for the dogs, feel sad for the children that looked up to this fool, and feel sorry for the people who continue to defend a severely disturbed man who brought his own world crashing down around him.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

People say it’s wrong to judge Vick, but they’re judging the judges. “He who is without sin” indeed…

By Peggy Green

August 16, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Is it me or is there something wrong in the United States when a women can kill her husband and spend 67 days in jail but someone who fights and kills some dogs are facing real jail time?

By sj

August 16, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t like MV. Never will. But this mass display of righteous outrage is pure theatrical crap. Next time anyone eats an egg look up how the average caged hens are treated during their brief exploited life. Neither the hen nor dogs have a choice and neither is aware that there is an event called death.

MV better plead. The human component of the justice system in this country consists of clock-watching, lazy, opinionated prosecutors, judges, and officers and is a joke. Local, state and federal law representatives routinely invent, plant, and adjust ‘evidence’ and testimony, esp. in highly visible cases. Their job is to keep their job, and if criminals are incarcerated in the process, it is coincidence.

And in case I don’t have time to respond to the offended, self-righteous readers of my opinions, I will do it now. Screw you.

By bee

August 16, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Although what Vick was involved was wrong and cruel, the post and nasty things about him are just as wrong.Supposely the one’s writing hateful things are perfect in their live. Let him serve his time in jail if he goes and let’s all move. The bigger problem why this is such a problem is that he have to stop making athletes our heroes. They are human which means they will make mistakes get caught up things they shouldn’t and make bad choices. If he serves his time he deseves a second chance without nasty things being written about him by people who claim they are fair and do no wrong. Some of you are just jumping on the bandwagon of hatred for what someone did. He should serve time but the things people are saying I can’t believe. It’s amazing that a man can beat his wife, not pay child support, be caught up in muder cases and no one is picking outside stadiums and causing an uproar like they do for this Michael Vick situation. Yes the dog couldn’t defend themselves but dog fighting is not new. I am simple saying if we are going to be an uproar about this lets me in upproar over other things also. And please let’s start making our kids look up to the people in our community who are making a difference everyday. I am a big sports fan who never has look up to celerbritys as role models. I was taught a long time ago that before a kid hears about someone famous, they see what is going on around them.

By Singletary

August 16, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Re Chris’ comments about having room under the salary cap when Vick’s salary is voided… I didn’t think that was possible under the NFL’s so-called Bengals Rule. I thought it was part of making the teams somewhat responsible for the players they hire and their conduct on and off the field.

Please correct me… I’d like to be wrong on this.

By Keeping it real !!!

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

It is sad to see him fall . and Vick was wrong and now he must pay. But there are people on this blog are full of joy to see him fall. Some at AJC has joy in seeing Vick fall. Let get this straight Vick was wrong as hell but the media jump on to speed thing up. all the talking head on ESPN, fox, Si, and our wonderful AJC sport who haters and the lie they tell it just the story which is a lie they had a agenda. All help feed the red meat to the haters. when you do wrong you must pay. For all the black kid and young men this show how the system will take you down. Look at the jails you see you are the cash cow for the jail system you young black men are making, lawyer, judges , paroled office the jail complex people who do work for the jail system money. I know the system is mess up . when you get a felony charge for most black men that is a death sentence. no good paying job will hire you. you have a bran for life “it says not for use” . black men this is the facts like it or not. we as a people have to clean our act up it is time we make a change. you can’t blame the white man when we are doing wrong. You have a history of how they feel about black men and how the use the law to cut you down. when you at a felony as a black man “case close” your life is limited. Vick I for give you man but you let a lot of us down black and white. The haters are full of joy. I feel as if I have failed. This is happen far to often. we as a people have to do better. We need to network to see that our young men don’t fail. man this hurt so bad. And as a black man we are losing because we are doing something wrong. we as a people need to look into our hearts and make a change now. parents time to do a gut check . Vick God has been talking to you now you will have time to listen repent and change your way. he will for give you if man don’t. next time you will be better for it . You can’t please a angry God when you have p** him off. repent and change your ways turn from evil mike vick and he will make you shine like the noon day sun and your enemy will be you foot stool . Just get it right with Jesus and then and only then you will shine and have peace. Black america if my people who call my name would turn from there evil ways and repent he would heal the land. Time to listen to a angry God!

By terrell

August 16, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

fred, since when did committing a felony make you a SICK person. Everyone makes mistakes man. Where was the hostility for Heatley,(dui,manslaughter) Larussa,(dui) Tank Johnson,(weapons charges) Jamal Lewis(conspiracy to purchase cocaine), etc…ALL FELONIES. You guys act like you’re perfect. Let Mike learn from this tragedy and try to become a better person because of it.

By Football Fan

August 16, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

JB. You wanna bet “they” can’t stop it. Any team even remotely considering signing him will have a fan backlash like they’ve never seen before. He’s done.

By bushwacker

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

Time to move on folks, I have a prediction and I’ve only had 2 drinks so far today. BRAVES win World Series this year, followed by the FALCONS, HAWKS and THRASHERS all winning championships in 2008.

WOOO HOOO, GO JOEY!!!

Bartender makes the next one a double!

By Chris

August 16, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

Don’t ANYONE blame this on the people Vick was hanging out with.

He’s a damn 27-year-old man. He makes his own decisions. He chose to be involved with criminals and criminal activities. This isn’t something one of his boys just happened to fall into and Vick got dragged along.

He’s an adult. He obviously never had any kind of discipline in his life. He had great role models in Frank Beamer and Arthur Blank from whom he could’ve learned much. He chose to ignore the positive influences in his life, and he chose to follow the negative ones.

But you can’t blame this on negative influences. Michael Vick made his own decisions. He has his own morality; his own sense of right and wrong. Either he didn’t believe that what he was doing was wrong, or he knew that it was, yet continued down the path. Either way, it shows a tremendous lack of character and judgment.

He deserves what is coming his way, because at any point in time he could have decided to change his lifestyle and to live on the right side of the law. He chose not to do this.

Life is full of choices, and every choice is followed by 1 of 3 possible outcomes: Reward, consequence, or a combination of the two. Michael Vick made very, very bad choices, and he will now have to deal with the consequences.

By FELIX

August 16, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

I am sorry to see this happen however you can’t call his supporters biggots. It was stupid for him to do this but . We will see how the justice system plays out and see if he gets a stronger sentence than other people who committed this same crime .

By bushwacker

August 16, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Terrell, let’s look at what he did , not if it was illegal or nor, there is no doubt these guys enjoyed killing the dogs themselves, that IS SICK!!!

By Boots

August 16, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

I’m genuinely saddened by the demise of Michael Vick. But, I will be more saddened if he doesn’t cop the plea.

The Feds reiterated in the indictment just enough information to get a true bill from the Grand Jury. There is more…much more including additional charges —- including, probable RICO charges.

It will truly be a sad day for Michael if he opts out of the plea and goes to trial.

By gdg73

August 16, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Maybe you can give Jeff Schitz and Uncle Terrence Moore some pointers on how to created a decent column. In regards, to T. Moore, why is he trying to suck up to the same people that really hate his guts? The same people that applaud is “I Hate Mike Vick” column will chime in and call him an ape, gorilla, or the n-word whenever he writes anything semi-negative, but realistic about the Braves’ playoff chances, or a blog about the lack of diversity in the NFL coaching ranks. I guess its just a case of the slave trying to gain full acceptance from massa by doing or saying anything. The old slave mentality at its worst!

By Falcon 4 Life

August 16, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Thank you Bradley for a great piece. You are the only reason why I continue to read the sports page of the AJC.

By David Lee

August 16, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Man-up you little puss

By AFL

August 16, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

There is no excuse for electrocuting—or allowing or condoning the electrocuting—of dogs. I speak as someone who opposes the death penalty, who believed O.J. Simpson was innocent, who believes bad conduct often results from mental problems, who believes in redemption. I cannot, nevertheless, see how there can be any explanation for what Vick did. It is not a sickness. As to discussions of a plea bargain under which he could still play football—perhaps in Canada—dog lovers won’t let it happen. They have two images: Rescue dogs at the Twin Towers after 9/11 (some of whom developed respiratory complications as a result, and some died); and Vick’s scarred, chained dogs rescued and the exhumed remains of executed dogs.

By Football Fan

August 16, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Terrell. Your “mistake” is not knowing the definition of the word. A mistake is when you accidently do something you didn’t intend to do. None of what you mentioned is a “mistake”. They did exactly what they intended to do. Mistake my a$$.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Vick is in a really bad spot.

If he pleads guilty, and that means he lied to Goodell when he told him he knew nothing about the dogfighting, Goodell could choose to suspend him for a very long time. I guess it’s possible he could even toss him from the league, though that might be a stretch.

If he goes to trial, however, and is convicted of anything involving gambling, he most certainly would be banned from the NFL for life. Under the conduct policy, players involved in gambling or players associating with gamblers face a possible lifetime ban.

These next 20 hours are so are likely going to decide Vick’s fate. I think his only chance is a hung jury, but when the facts are presented, they may be so gruesome that no rational person may be able to enter a verdict of “Not guilty.” This is going to be very interesting.

By NASDAQ

August 16, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Pam*, do you realized that the “rape-stand” that you are referring to is commonly called a breeding stand, and they are used by the majority of dog breeders who breed pit bulls? So if you have a pit bull and it is a pure breed, chances are your dog came from the use of one of these stands. The first time I’ve every heard of this device referred to as a “rape-stand” was in Mike Vick’s situation. Educate yourself, beleive me you will see a lot more when you open your eyes.

By NYSE

August 16, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Even if Vick pleads guilty, it is due to the pressure of the white community. Vick is innocent as he has said in court, to the commissioner and Mr. Blank. End of story.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Since everyone wants to talk about this “67 days” nonsense, every crime is different from the others, as is the sentencing and release of prisoners as well as a number of factors surrounding each crime.

So, I guess I could say, “Well, there’s a rapist in jail for 3 years, but he didn’t kill anybody! Shouldn’t he be released? At least no one’s dead!”

Your tired argument doesn’t work. Try using things like logic and reason, not rhetoric and hyperbole (look it up).

One case has nothing to do with another. Stop comparing apples to oranges.

Is it just me, or is there something wrong in this country when people don’t think criminals should serve time for committing felonies?

By terrell

August 16, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Ed, the Feds do care what you do for a living. Do you think if you and I were fighting dogs they would be involved. PLEASE!

By J

August 16, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Hey Rick…Have you noticed that people who make fun of people’s spelling…spell “through” like Ronald McDonald

By linda

August 16, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

You must really need publicity to even consider Vicks state of mind. How about thinking about all the dogs he tortured and killed? Vick wasnt a great quarterback period. Even if he was the best quarteback in history no one with any morals would do what he did. Hes a first rate coward. Every player in the nfl should have stood up and refused to play with Vick. Almost everyone owns a dog and to think Vick could have taken your dog and tortured it. Vick is garbage. Hes a total con. Hes right there with OJ. Vick has hurt more than the image of football. Can you imagine Walter Peyton doing something like dog fighting. never. Players like Peyton make football not a coward like Vick.

By Delow

August 16, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

I am amazed that nobody mentioned the fact that being able to play football or not is the deciding factor in guilt. (If he pleads guilty he wants to know if he can play, if he can’t play he will plead innocent and go to trial) I for one would have a lot more respect for the guy if he had come clean the first time time around. Instead of negotiating when all his friends turned canary. What did he expect? He stands there with a million dollar legal team and they have Chico’s bail bonds.. errr

By terrell

August 16, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Thats BULLSHI. Beth, where do you get your info? oh let me guess. THE INTERNET. Have you ever raised pits to fight. If not please shut up. I know plenty of guys who use to fight dogs and they never trained them with anyother dogs but pits. IDIOT

By Chris

August 16, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Apparently the feds have 4 Falcons, 2 former and 2 current, lined up to testify against Vick. DeAngelo Hall is supposedly 1 of the current players.

Already 8 testifying against him, and now they add in his teammates? Ouch. Dude is going down.

Better cop that damn plea and save your arse some jail time. Screw the NFL. Just save you arse, man.

By terrell

August 16, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Thats BULLSHI. Beth, where do you get your info? oh let me guess. THE INTERNET. Have you ever raised pits to fight. If not please shut up. I know plenty of guys who use to fight dogs and they never trained them with any other dogs but pits. IDIOT

By statement

August 16, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

what a bunch of white washed A-holes. many of you hide behind your keyboards and surround yourselves with the biggest gangsters & murderers who ever lived. your kind makes me sick. remember, you are the original thieves — you are the original killers — you are the original destroyers of everything you have ever come to know (except dogs). Mankind as we know it is a disaster because of you. The things you value are foolish and meaningless. Anything you can’t control, you hate!

By arthur

August 16, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

bradley, u feel sorry for vick? ha ha ha, what kind of fool are u? vick is a thug, why do u hv the stupid compassion for him? instead u should compassion for the unlucky dogs who was killed and tortured by him and his ” family member and team “. he is a thug a criminal, through and through. u know what is his true color underneath the fancy salary and uniform? he is a BEAST, yes, that is him. he should get NO plea bargain, and he should get the maximum jail time, heavy fine,bar from EVER play professional football and get raped in jail everyday. our society is naive, sportwriter glorify thug football players all the time, so the foolish youngers ” look up” at those thugs, they ll imitate his behavior when they grow up, and it is UR fault too.SHAME ON U.

By sonnyliv

August 16, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

vick will need all his speed in prison, i bet they will draw straws to see who goes first—or trade smokes.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Remember when this blog shuts down in about 3 minutes, you can always go to the Fan Blog.

By jjpaulkitty

August 16, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

In order to feel as a human being one must be a human being. Vick, if found guilty of the accusations, is not human.

By LoWanda

August 16, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

The American public need a reality check on compassion and the the rights under the Constitution. We are all innocent until proven guilty. If that doesn’t do it then in the words of the Greatest leader of all time, Let thee without sin cast the first stone.

By Luigi

August 16, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Hey, Mark, nobody wants to hear your whimpering about how nice a guy Vick is. What he did was monstrous, heinous and disgraceful. You should be ashamed of yourself for even remotely defending this scumbag.

By Luigi

August 16, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Hey, Mark, nobody wants to hear your whimpering about how nice a guy Vick is. What he did was monstrous, heinous and disgraceful. You should be ashamed of yourself for even remotely defending this scumbag.

By NFLfan

August 16, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I’d like to thank Mike Vick. He’s opened our eyes to a serious problem that needs to be thrown in the dust bin of history like bear baiting and freak shows. A decade ago dog fighting was thought to be an isolated animal abuse problem. Today it has grown to support serious crimes in communities across America. Dog fighters are not just wealthy Hip Hop artists or professional athletes. They are often heavily involved in organized crime, racketeering, drug distribution, or gangs. Even seasoned law enforcement people are appalled by the acceptance of horrific treatment to animals before, during, and after dog fights. Kids exposed to this level of violence are conditioned to believe that it is normal, making it easier to become criminalized. Time for all of America to stop tacit acceptance. Dog fighting is bad for sports, bad for kids, and bad for our neighborhoods.

By midnite

August 16, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Oh, OK you loving, caring, commpassionate individuals that told Vick everything he did was OK. He is a grown a$$ man and made his own choices again and again. Y’all told him he was Superman, y’all loved him “pushing the envelope” with his ghetto gangster antics. Shall I list his transgressions for you? Anyone with half a brain knows he is guilty of the charges. Why is he trying to plead out you dolts? If I break the law I know what the consequences are, and I expect to be punished. His arrogant demeanor, inability to accept any responsibility for his mistakes on or off the field, and his Superman attitude have done him in. He should have come clean in the beginning, but the gangsta way is to lie and deny. His “crew” and you few supporters have fed him kryptonite and BS and he gobbled it up. It is a truly sad story. Well written article Bradley.

By SICOFUVICKHATRS

August 16, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Good story Mark I believe if people focused on their on lives which is filled with sin; i.e. marital affairs, gambling, hating, prejudice and so on. Vick is negotiating a plea deal because there is so much and so many people are against him and it is hard plea innocent when people are given the opportunity save there on skin so they put the blame on someone else to make it seem as if they had any parts of it. Such as rape cases when people are sent to jail and falsely accused.

By Kevin

August 16, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Well I guess Jim Mora, Sr. was wrong. Michael Vick is not a coach killer. He’s a dog killer. This will cripple the Falcon’s franchise because it gave up some much to get Michael Vick and soon they will have nothing to show for it. I hate to see this happen, but we all must stand up and face the consequences for our actions. If he doesn’t have to explain his actions now, he will one day before God. I hope he has asked him for forgiveness.

By Dave T

August 16, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

OMG… Please sir do NOT speak for us all. I for one do not feel diminished by this sicko’s actions. The man knew what he was doing, knew that it was against NFL policy and now this trash is very likely going to plea bargain his way to a lesser sentence. The only thing that is going to be diminished is the justice system after his lighter than deserved sentencing. As for his desire to play in the NFL again …?? pullleeze, If Goodell has any spine at all he should ban MV for life. Half of the punishment for violating the code of conduct and the other half for making Goodell look like an idiot on draft weekend…..

By Dave T

August 16, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

OMG… Please sir do NOT speak for us all. I for one do not feel diminished by this sicko’s actions. The man knew what he was doing, knew that it was against NFL policy and now this trash is very likely going to plea bargain his way to a lesser sentence. The only thing that is going to be diminished is the justice system after his lighter than deserved sentencing. As for his desire to play in the NFL again …?? pullleeze, If Goodell has any spine at all he should ban MV for life. Half of the punishment for violating the code of conduct and the other half for making Goodell look like an idiot on draft weekend…..

By outside lookin' in

August 16, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

i appreciate you clearin’ your point from yesterday’s article and your stance in general. well said!! it’s ashame that others can’t stop the hate. like i said before, for those that sit down and consume meat daily at their dining room table, continue on a daily basis, to contribute to the needless slaughter of animals. and just because they can’t fetch a frisbee does not mean their life is any less valuable. open your eyes people and STOP bein’ hypocrites and haters when it relates to this MV case.

and MB, like you, i am sad for MV and the dogs. VICK’s sad lessen is realizin’ now that those really WEREN’T his boyz nor crew!!! they end up bein’ nothin’ but leechers protectin’ their own!!!!what a wake-up call!!!!

and if MV is found guilty or pleads then he’ll get what he deserves. but this is where i hope GBUSH steps in and decides the punishment is too great for the crime. afterall, dogfightin’ vs national security…a no brainer right????!!!!

By Sudanese

August 16, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

How bout protesting and showing OUTRAGE over the thousands of sudanees people that are being killed by arabs in SUDAN.

“sigh” I suppose dogs are held in higher esteem than black people

That is too bad…..dogs rule