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

By Dave T

August 16, 2007 1:14 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 Football Fan

August 16, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

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!

If Poindexter was the local do nothing prosecuter they just might.

By Keeping it real !!!

August 16, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I have no problem with people severing time when they commit felonies . But I do have a problem after that person server his or her time full there record should be clean they paid there debit. after he or she does there time they should not be a convicted felon any more on most crime. sex offender is different. you should not have to pay for a crime your hold life after you done you time. Your record should clean and you should be able to vote after you do your time!

By Stimus

August 16, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Vick will NEVER play professional football again. Too many people of good conscience will picket every venue he plays in for starters and will do everything in our power, within legal channels, to make sure the NFL, fans and the public at large NEVER forget what Vick has done.

By Vick Hater

August 16, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

I was elated over the news that thug Vick finally was caught and brought up on charges. The thug makes me sick. Just what our society does not need is some thuggish football player with braids plastered all over the place. Get rid of him! While he’s in jail, set him up on a rape stand and let Bubba come and have their turn!!!!

By Chris

August 16, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

If I read this “He who is without sin…” crap any more I’m going to throw up. You people are ridiculous. Like you never look at a person doing wrong things and judge them to be wrong for doing it.

You yourself are actually judging the people who are judging Vick when you throw that comment out there. There should only be 2 entities every allowed to utter those words without being judgmental by doing so: Jesus and God (if you are a Christian).

If you’re not a Christian, say those words all you want, but they probably won’t mean much.

But if you are a Christian, shut up with that nonsense. Instead of judging those who are judging Vick, if you are truly Christians, shouldn’t you just shut your mouth and let God sort it out?

You’re morons. And clowns. And followers. Remember when someone on here said, “Due process!” and then all the other jock-sniffers start going around shouting the same thing.

A couple weeks later, here comes the, “He without sin…” nonsense and everyone grabs onto it and just repeats the same line. Are you idiots getting your talking points from Vick’s defense team?

God, I hope none of you people are actually in a position of authority, where you may actually have to one day judge whether someone’s actions were morally right or wrong.

I hope none of you people hold a position where thinking like an individual, instead of following what everyone else says, is an important part of job. You idiots have not 1 original thought in your brains. You’re spoon-fed from cradle to grave, never having to burden yourself with forming individual, rational thought patterns. Must be nice to go through life so ignorant.

By KPage

August 16, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

I immediately started writing letters against Vick (Goddell, Nike, etc.) when the story broke. I live in a rural part of Texas and see the results of dogfighting. It’s awful. The Vick case has almost been a good thing … it’s let the whole country know what thousands of people do for fun around here. And I will be glad if he does time.

That said, I do feel sorry for Mr. Vick … at least to the extent that he is waking up and understanding his crime. I believe that in greater and lesser ways, we are all stupid and horrible, and recognizing our bad acts is painful. The measure of any man is what he does after he accepts that he has erred, even hideously.

Mr. Vick … there are people out here who are glad you’re going down, but who are nonetheless hoping that you find your way back up.

By SM

August 16, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Vick made a calculated decision which demonstrated his lack of compassion for life. I don’t care what he is going through. All I know that what ever it is that he does “go through” will not be bad enough. A decent human being would not be involved in such a barbaric activity. He made his choices, now he has to deal with them.

By Sudanese

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

WHY DON’T PEOPLE SHOW THE SAME AMOUNT OF OUTRAGE AT THE THOUSANDS OF SUDANESE PEOPLE BEING KILLED BY ARABS??

SEEMS LIKE DOGS AND IRAQI’S ARE LOVED MUCH MORE THAN BLACK PEOPLE??

By NFLfan

August 16, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Hey terrell, the feds do NOT care who you are or where you are. Fighting dogs is now a federal felony. Tell your dog fighting thug friends to expect jail time. In a recent dog fighting case in Ohio, federal prosecutors secured a 47 count indictment involving nine “regular” people connected to a suspected dog fighting ring. Crimes, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Southern Ohio, ranged from dog fighting to drug and gun charges to the sale of stolen vehicles and illegal gambling.

By MV7 aka D.O.C. #1'MN1D10T

August 16, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

I be sorry, ya’ll!

By Dave T

August 16, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

well NYSE..welcome to the planet Earth. Based on your moronic comment I swear you must have come from another universe…… I’m glad your comment was only 2 lines; it tempers my comment to 3 +/- lines…. IDIOT

By Keeping it real !!!

August 16, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Dave t you are a pure hater. Its not the dog fighting is it? you and many other hate him if you tell the truth. Don’t hide behine the dogfighting man. vick need to to make a living . what have you done wrong that you could have gone to jail for don’t lie? I am sure you would want some forgiveness for what you have done that you just did not get caught doing. You are being a hater and hipocrite man!

By I hear you but...

August 16, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Yesterday, I heard Warrick Dunn say out of his own mouth that he did not say what the AJC printed. I heard that once he got word of what was said, he immediately tried to contact the paper and let them know that there was a misprint. He stated that “no one on the team is hoping that he (MV) DOES NOT COME BACK”. There is a difference in that statement. He also said that the teams knows that they have a football season to play and they have to move forward. He said that he believes that MV needs to concentrate on this case because this is about his life, not football. So I have to say, I hear you but am I supposed to believe you or Warrick Dunn.

By Brad

August 16, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Great article here on BlackAthlete.net. Scroll to the bottom for photo.

By Stimus

August 16, 2007 1:32 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.

Amen to that NFLfan!

By bigeasy830

August 16, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Great article again Mr. Bradley. Don’t let the miserable people get you down on the article you wrote. I think that race is a factor in this case. And that race is the human race. I have seen dogs die. When I was young I saw a bigger dog break his chain and kill the smaller dogs in my neighborhood, it is one of the cruelist things I have ever witnessed, those smaller dogs wimpered like small children before they died. I also saw a neighborhood bully try to kill a puppy. Me and a couple of other smaller kids fought with him and saved the puppy, but the puppy was badly hurt and eventually died. But, I have more love for the human race. It saddens me more that Grady hospital will severely cut back its services, many poor people black,white or hispanic will suffer from that. The homeless situation here in Atlanta. Child abuse and neglect cases where the perpetrator is sometimes found guilty and still only gets a slap on the hand. Not to mention the suffering in the middle east, not only the suffering of our soldiers but the citizens of Iraq that have also lost their lives, innocent men, women and children. The living conditions in Mexico and other third world countries that will make a man or women risk their lives and leave their homes to seek a better life here in America to only be exploited by a socio-ecomnomic system that uses race to fuel fear in many good people to make them say, think and do foolish things, like vote for those so caled servants of the people, the politicians. That is why I say, it is only a dog. I read an atrticle on msn sports by Mark Kriegel, I understood his point as well. Hypocrisy, dog fighting is being used by the media and prosecution to make Mike Vick look like a terrible person. But, the dog fighting charge is only a misdemeanor, if they cared so much about the dogs they would have changed it to a felony way before they did, now they want to use the RICO act,against him as if he was Jimmy Hoffa or as if he ran the Medeline Drug cartell, that makes no since at all, Ok lets say he gambled on dogfighting, We gamble on football and the NFL, loves the fact tha we gamble on football,yes office pools is gambling, it sparks interest in their game and makes it more popular. So to all you people who take great joy in another mans agony, I believe you have some issues of your own. We all have skeletons in our closet. Some may say we all have a dark side. If one believe in the Christian faith, There was only one perfect man to walk the Earth, Oh,I am sorry, I forgot about the Divici Code, Some people even got pleasure from discrediting Jesus. Probably the same ones who call Michael Vick a Thug and only you know whats deeply in your hearts and what you mean when you say that. So, I will not demean myself in the name calling game. One race, One love. Peace

By Luv 2 Hate Me

August 16, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

What a crock of sh^t. Now your a human being! Do I feel sorry for you Mark. Hell to the Naw. Vick is a human being. A person who made a mistake. We all make mistakes. You didn’t have the facts and nobody knows the truth. Vicks only fault at this point is hanging with the wrong crowd of people. But you journalist put the rope around his neck & hung him from the tree before he was even charged. You judged him and the only being who has that right is the man above. Between you and Terrence (Oreo) Moore both of ya’ll can go to hell.

By terrell

August 16, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

BUSHWACKER, dogs are uthenized everyday in this country. Do you think they ENJOY doing that. Do you think they are SICK? I’ll tell you what’s sick. Those cops spankin R. Kings a* in broad daylight. I think they ENJOYED themselves, or those idoits throwing stones at Hosea during the march in Forsythe. They also looked to ENJOY what they were doing. NOW THATS SICK! One more thing, why is wife beater Bobby being praised for having the worst attitude in baseball history? Things that make you go hmmm.

By Hillbilly

August 16, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

My sympathies are with the Falcons for having to be associated with one player’s actions. Let’s not talk about upbringing, rags to riches, black or white. Let’s look at what transpired and what will probably come to be. Mary Winkler was mentioned several times and to the percieved lack of severity of her sentence. The woman was sexually and mentally abused. Three girls, the pressure of being expected to act a certain way as a preacher’s wife, it doesn’t make it right, but you have to look at it from her side. So let’s look at this from Mike Vick’s side. More wealth than you could ever imagine for 95% of the populice regardless of what background you came from. A talented athlete working for an owner who preaches image and community activism. Mike always reminded me of the spoiled baby of the family. The others are punished for their actions but you are halfway scolded and given pretty much a “boys will be boys” excuse to the public. Stealing a watch, wtf is up with that? Infecting a sexual partner with an uncurable STD..of course it takes two to tango, but that’s just not right. The water bottle, I think SNL handled that pretty well. Standing up Congress, I’m not convinced that isn’t why this investigation has been as hard nosed as it is. The dog fighting, the cruelty towards the animals is bad enough, but let’s step away from that and look at the implications and I’ll give my view on what it must be like to be Mike Vick right now. Three of my “friends” flipped on me. I have four people lined up to testify against me. I have the government breathing down my neck. If I take a plea bargain, I am going to have to give some powerful, shady figures up. If I don’t, I am going to be crucified and humiliated. Either way I am going to do prison time. If I don’t plea, then Friday a grand jury is going to level gambling charges on me. Roger Goodell will make me the Pete Rose of football, banned for life. If I do plea, if I do get a light sentence, if I do get to play football again, hope against hope, what’s to stop the government from opening another investigation concerning earnings. A few thousand dollars from gambling, isn’t that what finally got Al Capone tossed into prison? Tax evasion? This redefines a rock and a hard place. How do I feel if I’m Mike Vick? “I’m 27, I had it all, what have I done? Where has everyone gone?” Another illustration of not holding someone accountable for small things makes them feel immune to punishment for larger things. Life will go on, the sun will rise tomorrow, and it’s football season! Next season Mike Vick will not be a distant memory, but he will be overshadowed by the acquisition of Louisville’s QB. There’s really nothing left to say.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

To the people who say, “It was just dogs, man!”

No, it’s not just dogs, it’s a felony.

Lots of people smoke pot. It’s pretty culturally acceptable these days. But if you get busted with a pound of marijuana, you’re going to jail.

“Come on, man! It’s just weed! Crack is worse!”

This is true. But it’s still a felony, so you’re going to jail.

By Dave T

August 16, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

I would want forgiveness for answering to your stupid moronic post Keeping it Real. That piece of trash was making a living throwing the pigskin around and he wasn’t even very good at that. Take your preaching BS somewhere else, I don’t have time for you

By Mr. D

August 16, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Well said Mark, It’s amazing how the majority of the Anti Vick fans wanted this to be true before they even knew all of the facts in this case (this is also true for some AJC staff as well). I’m definately dissappointed that Vick put himself in this situation, but I also hope that he can get through this and returns to the Falcons (although I do realize that is not likely). And Mark thanks for also pointing out the fact that Vick is actually a really good QB, and a successful one at that. with Vick as our starting QB we have only had one losing season and two playoff runs, and if you have been following the Falcons for a long time then you know that losing seasons were a regular occurence before Vick. But even with one of the most dangerous weapons in the NFL Football is still a team sport, and it takes a great team and great coaching staff to make it to the superbowl, not just one great player. For those of you that think Vick will not play in the NFL again are crazy, The NFL is a business first and Vick sells out stadiums and gains great ratings and thats the bottom line $$$. If Vick cops a plea and is suspended for the year, I hope Blank can ignore the short term pressure and keep Vick on the team, but if he doesn’t this will set the franchise back for at least 3 years and saddening to a true fan like myself

By outside lookin' in

August 16, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

yep…made the same point aboout DUNN’s statement yesterday.

also heard WYCHE on ESPN FIRST TAKE yesterday ‘MISREPRESENT’ what was written yesterday in the AJC and how he spun the written article on tv. it was really a joke!!! did he read the same paper i read??? sensationalize it then try to back-track???!!! what a paper!!!!!

By Brad

August 16, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Luv2Hate Me! “Vicks only fault at this point is hanging with the wrong crowd of people.” You gotta be high. Have you read the indictment? The feds had multiple EYEWITNESSES even before his friends proved they were MEN and admitted their guilt. Quit blaming others for Vick’s ignorance.

Your racist b.s. post shows you as ignorant. With Vick, it’s clearly not the black, it’s the stupid.

By Dave T

August 16, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Thank you bigeasy830 for dumping ALL your issues that ever affected you in your ENTIRE life on this article. I’m sure you feel better now don’t you?…

By SharonH

August 16, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

You are lying. You, Schultz and Moore along with the rest of the AJC have reported on What Michael Vick Did with an appalling glee, boring us with every detail, rumor and maybe long before the indictment. I have never seen 3 people so glad to report on someone’s downfall before so don’t try to backtrack now and claim that it makes you sad. Additionally you continue to report on this story with a fervor that defies explanation; as so-called sports columnists you should have been covering the underworld of dogfighting long ago but you didn’t care until you saw the opportunity to use it to hang a quarterback you never felt comfortable with in the first place. You can stick your alleged sad feelings up your butt!

By Ken Strickland

August 16, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

MICHEAL BRADLY, thanks for at least attempting to explain the intent of your last article. Remember, you are receiving some of the flack caused by the AJC and Terrence(Clarence Thomas)Moore. Personally, I thought the republican party had outdone itself when it came up with Clarence Thomas(the true definition of an OREO, or token). The AJC has proven me wrong by locating another OREO mentality in Terrence Moore.

For the record, this is a much bigger issue for Blacks than just MVick and dogfighting. If you forget your history, you will be doomed to repeat it. And that applies to everyone, by the way. Blacks realize that a lot of the comments, embellishment and overreation to MVicks actions are motivated by irrational, judgemental, and emotionally charged biases. These same feelings and attitudes caused incidents like Rosewood, Tulsa, Ok and the riot in Atlanta back in the 20’s. These incidents caused a great deal of death and destruction among Blacks at the hand of Whites.

I also remember an incident in Boston where a White man shot and killed his pregnant wife and claimed Blacks did it. With no other information other than his statement, Boston police went on a crusade through the Black neighborhoods(showing no regard for civil and legal rights) searching for this fictious individual. A simular incident happened in North GA when a man claim a Black man kidnapped and murdered his child while he was temporarily away from his car. I bet you can imagine the overaction and uproar that caused. In both cases it was found that the accuser was the culprit.

How many Blacks have been hung by angry Whites who were quick to give in to their prejudices and biases and not give a damn about due process or innocent until proven guilty. Blacks are still being hung, especially in jails around the south, and especially in Miss. How long ago was it that a group of White Texans chained a Black man to a pickup truck and dragged him to a merciless death. These are some of the same sick trash that is serving in judgement of Blacks on various juries around the country.

A few yrs ago, a young man picked up a women in a bar and took her to his Florida estate and had sex with her. The next day she filed rape charges against this individual. He was found not guilty because there was no physical evidence that proved a rape occurred, nor were their any witnesses.

Now, fast forward a few yrs. Another man, in Indiana, was accused of rape by a beauty contestant. She caught a cab to his hotel, wearing nothing but an overcoat over her PJ’s, and spent the night. She waited several days, and participated in several events, (until it was confirmed she wouldn’t win), before crying rape. Like the above incident, there were no witnesses, or physical evidence that proved a rape actually occurred. Yet, Mike Tyson was found guilty and sent to prison, while Mr Kennedy was found not guilty. HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN LEGALLY FINDING A PERSON GUILTY OF RAPE, OR ANY CRIME, WHEN IT CAN’T BE ESTABLISHED THAT A RAPE, OR CRIME, ACTUALLY OCCURRED? To answer that question, just read the comments of the irrational, judgemental, and biased MVick haters. They’re more interested in satisfying their personal feelings, preconceived notions and biases, than following or accepting the rules of law.

By Joshua

August 16, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

I loved Michael. I defended him at every turn. Since I live in Denver, that was a lot. I lost a lot respect for him when he gave the fans the finger. My 6 year old daughter is a HUGE Michael Vick fan. She loves four men… Daddy, Michael Vick, Jesus and Bobby Lashley (who lives a couple blocks from us, so we see him all the time). Pretty much in that order.

She saw him give the finger to the fans, and couldn’t understand why he would “do such a naughty thing to people who love him”. I had to explain that to her…

Now this. I had to explain to a 6 year old little girl why her hero and idol is being mean to dogs (since we have three dogs, it confused her as to how someone could be so mean to something so sweet). She cried when I tried so hard to explain it. But she understood when we took her posters down, and she gave me his jersey. She’s mad at him.

He didn’t just let down the team. He didn’t just let down fans. He let down children. And parents all across the country have to explain this to their kids. And for THAT alone… I say screw him. Let him start a new movie “The longest yard II” feat. Rae Carruth. He can burn in hell for all I care. If he EVER suits up in a NFL jersey again, I will stop watching football all together.

I hope that he enjoys knowing that the people who cared the most, have been destroyed by his greed.

By dogsrus

August 16, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

You have got to be kidding me, Mr. Bradley. Oh, poor, poor Michael Vick. He has shown NO remorse at all for what he did to those poor dogs. And you feel sorry for him? Where are your values, or do you just throw all values and morals out the window when it comes to football players.

By Jon

August 16, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe anyone of even modest intelligence would feel sorry for this worthless disgrace of a man. Comparing this to Jamal Lewis’ drug charges is preposterous; Lewis never TORTURED anything. Losers like “sj” who say the “outrage” is “theatrical” because we’ll turn around and eat eggs shouldn’t make assumptions. I don’t touch meat, eggs, dairy, leather, or anything made from animal-derived ingredients. I don’t expect all people to live this way, but I DO expect them to be compassionate toward animals that are tortured and abused for the FUN and ENTERTAINMENT of some spoiled, rich celebrity. Anyone who defends Vick at this point should be subjected to the same conditions as those poor creatures in whose pain he took so much pleasure.

You people make me sick.

And for those of you thinking Vick will only serve “half” of whatever sentence he receives due to “good behavior”, think again. There’s no such thing as parole for federal prisoners, and they have to serve at least 85% of their sentences. He won’t get nearly what he deserves.

By Jimmy Etheridge

August 16, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

The only ones I feel sad for in this situation are the dogs.

By 1-and-outfromNYC

August 16, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Hey, people of ATL!…..get a life & MOVE ON!…..this used to be a good e-sports-news source.

By Bob

August 16, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

I can’t see someone that would do what Michael Vick did, as being anything but a really sick individual and mean spirited . If I liked him as a person, I would really start questioning my own value judgment of people. I hope he rots in hell someday, and has dogs keeping him from escaping.

By terrell

August 16, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Football fan, he made the mistake of getting himself involved in this shi. Since when did the word mistake, ah forget it. Not even worth arguing about.

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, that was a great article. I’ve been waiting for some kind of compassion on this deal because despite what’s said on this blog, I always believed that there always some people with compassion at least. This Vick thing has hurt me, and I really feel sorry for him. Yes folks, despite him having everything he ever wanted and all the other advantages. Just imagine if you had 130 million dollars+, how would you act? I bet his “friends” hyped him up so badly he probably began to think he was invincible. Money can do that to people. I really don’t believe he’s a bad guy and I’ve seen him do so much for others. People forget, he’s still a young man, and there’s alot of people who have sons in there twenties and still do dumb things. He’s human. I believe that he didn’t think dogfighting was a serious crime. Dogfighting is a common thing in our country. I grew up in Oklahoma, and it was very common, as it was when I served in the Navy in Virginia. I’m glad to see some compassion from some people on this blog for a change instead of all the hate. We’re praying for you Mike Vick.

By NFL fan

August 16, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Mike Vick is the same man who set up the Michael Vick foundation to support afterschool programs for boys and girls. Mike Vick is the same man who would give money to people he did not know at Christmastime. Mike Vick, like all of us who have sinned, can find redemption. Mike, I ask you to stand up and tell America dog fighting was wrong. Tell us you will work to help turn kids away from it across the country. Show us you are sincere about using this terrible experience to help clean up our neighborhoods, you name, and professional sports.

By reggie

August 16, 2007 1:55 PM | 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. Where is the outrage for teh six teen age students in Jena Louisiana who is facing 20 years in prision for fighting at school because thy wanted to sit under a tree where normally white students sit. 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 Dupreee

August 16, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

I want to agree wholeheartedly with you on two fronts. First, the more likely it seems that the Beloved 7 may not come out of this unscathed and more likely he may never be the quarterback of this franchise, I think even his biggest detractors of years past has to somehow empathize with this young man. To a person, I’ve yet to hear any media type say anything other than he is or seems to be a good guy. I read it best when it was stated that, “he is a good guy in a bad situation.” Regardless of how he has gotten here, I hoped his fate would be better. He has learned an invaluable lesson, and he’ll have a chance at redemption. Secondly, I don’t really think that this young man ever really knew how much he meant to a LOT of people here in Atlanta. He just knew that he was Mike Vick, superstar quarterback. Unfortunately, once he took his position under center versus the Miami Dolphins backing up in relief of Chris Chandler, he probably unknowingly took a far greater position as a symbol of hope and pride amongst a community of people who in the last ten years have gained more symbols. But, here in Atlanta, he shined the brightest for us. We criticized and defended him the same, but ultimately, he was like one of your sons. He just couldn’t do enough wrong to write him out the will. Even today, I still hold out hope that he’ll return home. Thanks to all for the forum.

By midnite

August 16, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

What does all of the wrongs going on in the world today have to do with this case? You dolts just keep dredging up inane misdeeds. You hoodrats just don’t have any respect for laws of our country. “Just don’t get caught” is your mantra. Quoting Scripture when you don’t submit to God is very dangerous. That school of thought is the very reason y’all wont pull yourselves up out of the miry clay of the ghetto, and the cycle continues. Simpletons

By EBHorton

August 16, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

As for me, I will always be a Vick fan no matter what the out come is. In his short time with the Falcons he have brought excitement. I am not saying that he is not guilty, but he do deserves another chance. This type of things have been going on for years and nothing have been done about it. I love and care about the lives of all living things, but I feel this is a chance to make an example out of someone that is well off and they are going all out for that chance. I will be praying that he make it through this and find a way to continue his career, cuz he will not be the only or last person to do something wrong if he is guilty. There is no one out there and I mean no one out there that is prefect.

By Rod

August 16, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Thank heaven for college football. The falcons and the NFL are pathetic. The NFL has become so corperate and image concious and politically correct it makes me want to puke. On another note, Im not a Vick support but the human side of me wants to see what Vick would with a second chance only because I think his heart is better than some people that have had second chances, Ray Lewis, O.J. Simpson, that Lewis running back for the ravens guy.

By jawh

August 16, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

I feel that Vick made a terrible mistake and really did not know that dog fighting is worse than murdering a human. While I am disguisted by the allegations I fee that Vick is a very talented football player and I would like to see him play again.

By GW

August 16, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Great job Mark. Your parent distilled the right values in you. Only the man above is able to judge. These bigots doing all of this jaw jacking will get what they truly deserve.a lot sooner than most of them realize. This is sad for the Falcons only because the man filled the dome and that’s not going to happen this year. Vick will be alright because the man has more money than everyone commenting today a few millions time over. If he’s allowed to play again I would definitely pay to watch him do his thing. The falcons will be lucky to win 4 games without him.

By EBHorton

August 16, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Thanks again Mark for your arictle on Vick. Jesus Christ is the only Perfect Being in the Universe. EBHorton

By sj

August 16, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Hi Jon. I anticipated you, my self-righteous, no animal product friend. The last two words in my post were for you.

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

I thought you would be banned from the NFL if you bet on the game. I’m sure NFL players have been to casinos. Pete Rose bet on the game of baseball, which is why he was banned for life. Vick didn’t bet on the game.

By Patrick

August 16, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

what a bunch of idiots! There are about 10 rational sports fans on this blog. The rest of you are freakin’ crazy.

By Jon

August 16, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

“Vick Supporter”, whether or not he knew it was “a serious crime” is wholly irrelevant. It’s CRUEL, and that’s far more important than the criminality of his actions. It takes a truly pitiful excuse for a human being to defend the activity in which he participated, or even to be angry that he “hurt” a SPORTS TEAM, rather than being angry that he TORTURED living creatures. Talk about twisted priorities.

By Wahoo

August 16, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Good gosh Mark Bradley, I finally thought you were getting a backbone then you write this because it looks like some people may be upset with you.

You feel sad for Vick?

You are feeling sorry for the wrong person.

Unless Vick was somehow completely unaware of anything happening on his property or with his friends or in his presence… he is guilty.

Note to some: In this country we are not-guilty until proven guilty. We use the term innocent for not-guilty when they actually are very different. Innocent means you didn’t do it. Not-guilty means you didn’t get convicted.

Anyway, Vick isn’t the one to feel sorry for. He blew it himself. He CHOSE to be this way.

So if you want to feel sad for someone… make it his fans or those who saw him and looked up to him for his character. Make it be the Falcons organization for counting on him. Make it the NFL and the sponsors for believing he was worth idolizing. Make it the animals who were mistreated.

There are plenty to feel sad for … I’m just not sure MV is one of them.

By Old school Al

August 16, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

To Vick Supporter: He didn’t have to bet on a game. He was perfectly capable of losing with his “natural” ability!

By Judge Lance Ito

August 16, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Did anybody else see this unbelievably assinine comment by a prominent member of Vick’s Legal Dream Team: “Mike is a good kid caught in a bad situation.” What planet is THIS moron living on?

By Chris

August 16, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

No, Vick Supporter. The NFL code of conduct states specifically that a player can be banned for life for gambling or for being involved with gamblers. It has nothing to do with betting on football; the issue is that if somehow you get in deep with gamblers, either owing them money or them having dirt on you because they know you’re breaking the rules, you could jeopardize your team on the field. If you’re trying to protect your arse, you may let one pass sail to high, or you may run out of bounds instead of going for that extra yardage, or you may miss a tackle, or whatever.

So, in response, what you thought was wrong. Then again, almost everything you think is wrong, so that’s no big surprise, now, is it?

By Jon

August 16, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

And those two words obviously demonstrated the extent of your inexcusably limited vocabulary, “sj”, as does your inability to conjure a more appropriate term than “self-righteous” in your response. Back to grade school with you, son. You anticipated nothing, as evidenced by your asinine assumption.

And for the record, “sj”, I am the furthest thing from your “friend”.

By DJISTHEGREATESTFOOTBALLPLAYERINTHEHISTORYOFFOOTBALL

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

Sad for what? He’s a thug. He’s getting what he deserves. That what happens to crooks

By Bradley Colvin

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

plea bargain—1 year jail time,$100,000 fine and 500 hrs. community service with animal rights people. nfl— 3 yr. suspension. based basically on the gambling.unfotunate that these law officials did not handle the o.j. case. wizzywins

By Joshua

August 16, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

“Only God can judge someone”? Tell that to the courts. And I am pretty sure that God has judged him… just hasn’t come time for the punishment yet.

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Jon Why so much hate? Are you perfect? I’m sure you’ve sniffed a line or 2 of Meth.

By Den

August 16, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Vick is pure evil and must be held accountable for his actions. He knew the score, but thought he was above it. In and out of prison, he should be shunned by every man, woman, child, company and NFL team with a conscience. Good riddance.

By Amanda

August 16, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

I don’t feel sorry for a second for this sadistic you know what. He MURDERED ANIMALS FOR FUN! How much sicker can you get? And he DID THESE CRIMES FOR YEARS! This wasn’t a 1 time only little boo-boo. He is a criminal first. The only thing I’m sad about are all his dogs that will immediately be put to death when his trial is over, and all the poor dogs that are going to be killed by his blind fans who want to be “like Vick” and make money dog fighting. “Be like Mike” was so wonderful. “Be like Vick” is a death sentence for millions of Pit Bulls. So sad. And Vick isn’t sorry about anything except getting caught. If he ever plays NFL again on any team, I will be there protesting against him.

By Joshua

August 16, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter - I see why you are a Vick supporter… You’re class all the way. Just like Vick.

• Peace. I’m out. -

By David Duke

August 16, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Well, all the Vick supporters and supporters of the black and lawless have pulled their Saturday Night Specials and fired off a volley at Mark. What a joke! Mark didn’t engage in illegal dogfighting. Vick did! Mark didn’t choke, beat, shoot, drown or electrocute any dogs. Vick did! Mark didn’t meet with Goodell and look him in the eye and deliver a damnable lie. Vick did! Mark didn’t go to dogfights and bet large sums of money on the outcome. Vick did! Mark has only reported and given his feelings. He can’t be held responsible for any of the criminal actions of Vick. Get a clue black folk! Mike Vick is just another sooty criminal who has tried to blame others for his actions and it’s not working. He will be put into prison and he will never play another down in the NFL. JUSTICE!

By Olskool

August 16, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I got what you were saying the first time Mark. When someone goes through something like this is easy for some people to pile on and wish the worst for that person. Most of the comments after your first column were like that. I don’t defend what Vick did but i think it speaks to the lack of character for people to wish the worst for someone. From Don Imus to the NBA ref to Mike Vick - people should pay for their mistakes but we should also pray that they learn from their mistakes and become better people.

By July Jones

August 16, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I have no love for Vick. I never felt he would get us to the SuperBowl. None-the-less, the situation is tragic in a classical sense.

At this point, Blank will have to release him and recoup whatever money he hasn’t paid on his contract. Then we can get a quality quarterback and start winning some games again.

My prediction is that the Falcons will do no worse this year than last and that the receivers are going to magically learn how to catch the ball now that Vick is gone.

We’ll see.

By Richmond Girl

August 16, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

I believe that people are directing their anger at the PERSON and not the act itself. Yes, it was Michael Vick and that’s really unfortunate. Have you ever searched news archives or talked to your local SPCA? Michael Vick is not someone who created this despicable act, he merely participated. And for that he must pay. But if you really want to be angry about something- stand up for the animals who have no choice. Donate your free time to helping re-home abandoned animals. Foster an animal. Stop being “armchair quarterbacks”.

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Amanda, please get on a treadmill. I know who you are and I’ve always wanted to tell you that. Lose some weight before you talk about someone.

By midnite

August 16, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Hey athletic supporter er, uh, I mean vick supporter when did Vick ever play pro baseball? You are one filthy mouthed, pitiful character, but not as ignorant as Vick. …well on second thought…

By Beantown

August 16, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

I didn’t like Vick as a QB. But I do feel sorry for him. But not for you Falcon fans. GO New England Patriots,Red Sox, and Celtics. If this city needs some classes in character- The New England Patriots is holding class. We are the only team that can probably change Vick and make him useful. Off to the Super Bowl I go, enjoy 5-11. One Luv

By sj

August 16, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Hi Jon. It has been verified that your soap-box is constructed with animal derived glue products. Maybe you should quietly step off before your self-credibility is injured. My last two words are still active, friend.

By Justice 4 All

August 16, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

I like Vick too and if my family and friends abandoned me every time I did something stupid and out of character I wouldn’t have a friend in the world I’m sure most of you here are perfect angels who have never broken a single law and you guys have a right to throw stones because you’ve never done Anything wrong and your perfect but for us people who make mistakes hopefully you can forgive us like our real family and friends do and live and learn and hopeful we might can work our way up to perfect so we too can be the judge of you!

By Jon

August 16, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

“Vick Supporter”, the only “hate” I have is for anyone who would torture or abuse living creatures and those who defend them. Nope, I don’t even approach perfect, but I’ve never inflicted harm upon a person or animal for sport. Despite your adorable little fantasy about me and my personal life, my girlfriend and I share a home in Charlotte, NC. I don’t have to “try” to “sound smart”; unlike you, I just am, you pathetic, homophobic bigot.

Look at you, sniveling like a bratty little child and losing your temper, launching into a profanity-filled meltdown on a web site. You’re a joke, and not even a funny one.

By Larry

August 16, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Vick “surpassing grace? This is why no one takes Mark Bradley seriously. He is just a spineless little dweeb now trying sound sweeter than yesterday.

Have some courage, Mark, for once in your life hang with the truth! There’s absolutely nothing graceful that Vick is or does and to say he surpassed grace—how does one surpass GRACE?—is beyond puffing! This is blatant, unabashed idiocy!

By hedidit

August 16, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

He didn’t fall, he jumped. I don’t know how he feels right now, but stupid comes to mind.

By Lucius

August 16, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

You want to know how Vick feels? Vick feels media that cry crocodile tears when dogs bite each other, jump for joy when dogs are ordered to bite Blacks that seek civil rights and justice around the world. See this issue through the eyes of Black women and children bitten by dogs owneed by racists from colonial times, to Jim Crow times until this very day. There are other views about Blacks and dogs that the media refuses to explore or report on. We look at dog situations differently than organizations seeking to generate revenue for their own salaries. There’s good and bad in everything including dogs. What is diferent between euthanization of dogs and drowning dogs? Dead dogs are dead!

By VickStinks

August 16, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

“The greatness of a nation and it’s moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” -Gandhi

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Jon, everyone knows you’re lying. Girlfriend? pffffffffffff

By Jon

August 16, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Your last two words, “sj”, eloquent as they may be, mean very little as you sit there and enjoy - nay, cling to - your anonymity. You’re simply one more functionally illiterate coward who seems to be feeling even more inadequate today than usual.

By DJ

August 16, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Thanks Mark,

Yesterday I accused you of piling on and kicking Mike Vick when he was down. Today it seems you have come to your senses and acknowledged that this is just a sad tragedy for this city. Despite inadequate coaching, it’s hard to argue that he didn’t give 100% effort during his short career here. This whole thing is a huge setback for this city and exposed a lot of the ugliness that still exists between everyday people, black & white in this city.

By RA

August 16, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

You know it doesn’t take a very large person to kick at someone when they’re down, but it does take a big man to clarify his position when he doesn’t have to. Mr. Bradley, for what it’s worth, you’ve earned a great deal of respect from me for what you wrote today.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Justice 4 All, you need “Phonics 4 All.” Ever heard of punctuation? Or did only about 50% of the people on this board advance beyond second grade? You people are pathetic. I’d love to read some of your job applications for a good laugh.

“I wanna be a casheir becuz i am good with monee an i like talkin 2 peepul and i keeps it reel an stuff”

By Joshua

August 16, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

What is diferent between euthanization of dogs and drowning dogs? - The difference is whether the dog suffers while it is happening. That’s kind of a BIG difference.

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Chris!! Oh my God!! You’re so funny dude!! That reply rocked dude!!! That was totally awesome. You’re the coolest most gnarly dude i’ve ever talked too! Awesome!!!!

By midnite

August 16, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

We are forced to euthanize animals because animals like you, Lucifer are not responsible enough to take care of them. Just ask any inner city animal control officer. That entire post of yours is total dog squeeze.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Are you serious, Lucius? The media?

“Oh, look out! Here comes the media! Hide the women and children! Put chains on your wallets!”

The media reports about the people who commit crimes. I’m sure if Vick goes to trial, they will definitely introduce to the court evidence that the media conspired to bring down Michael Vick.

You’re an f-ing retard. Go take a nap.

By Don Eyemus

August 16, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

mountain jim, Yeah you are a vegetarian. YOU CANT EVEN SPELL IT, LMAO.

By Fan of Atlanta

August 16, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Good article and I too feel sad for Vick. I feel sad for Atlanta and the dogs that died, for I am a dog lover too. But Vick is not vile or disgusting and I hate the Hypocracy of it all. Until we start showing the same outrage towards crimes against HUMAN F—-ng Beings, toward all the wildlife we shoot year round for SPORT not out of necessity but for food(last I check there is plenty at Kroger and wherever else you shop) then stop acting like this guy is Hitler or something of the like. He did a favorite pastime of his thats illegal and he will pay for it. I am sure he is sorry and deserves forgiveness like any other criminal out there providing he cops a plea. Hopefully when he is freed, if he gets to play again(he should be allowed since so many other dui killers and ex drug dealers are allowed to) he can concentrate on football and a SB ring, minus any lucrative endorsements and get on with his life. He may have committed a crime but Damn we all make mistakes. Hey may have let us true, notice I did say TRUE, fans down but hey he did put the ATL on the map and if it wasnt for him who would even care about the falcons. Example?….who is Babineaux again?

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I agree with you 100% DJ That’s what people don’t understand. No matter who it is, it’s a sad situation that has now totally divided this city. I can’t stand the sight just “them” like they can’t stand the sight of blacks. Guess it will be like this forever….

By mountain jim

August 16, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

**I wonder how many folks commenting daily here at the AJC have never even watched a Falcons Football game and are just here because they are PETA folks piling on the outrage now that they finally have a national figure’s scalp over which to crow.

That describe you, Jon?**

By midnite

August 16, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Hey athletic supporter does the librarian know you are talking like that on a public computer? Why do the ignorant and uninformed always resort to cursing and vulgarity when confronted? You are one lame character. Vick will be broke and wearing orange in less than thirty days. You heard it here first.

By colonial times

August 16, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Why stop there? Vick’s behavior is acceptable in this premise back to the original civilizations. Why should he be held to the standards of modern civilized society when he can run a 4.3?

By Don Eyemus

August 16, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

To all who say back off Vick unless you are without sin i say bs. If my brother was part of a dog fighting ring and got caught i would say HE GOT WHAT HE DESERVES. And if my brother was a role model, say like a preacher, and hung out with criminals and spread sexual diseases and flipped the finger at the congregation, i would say HE IS A SLEAZEBAG WHO GOT WHAT HE DESERVES.

If Peyton Manning had done the things Vick has done i would say he is a redneck hillbilly piece of garbage.

SO DONT COME AROUND HERE TALKING UR SH.T ABOUT RACISM. GOT IT?

By B L

August 16, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Thank you for saying what many of us have been thinking. I used to be one of those that defended Vick, that said that if he was in a system that emphasized his talents (medium- and long-range passes, running ability) instead of being forced into a West Coast offense, he would be a great QB. I wanted to see Vick excel, I wanted him to shut up those that said he could never be a signal-caller.

But when I started to hear about the house in Surry County, it disgusted me. As it looked more and more like Vick was involved, I realized that I couldn’t root for him if he was found to be involved.

Now, it looks like he was. I’m angry and sad, not because of what happens to Vick, but because he took away our chance to see just how good he could have been.

By Chris

August 16, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

When people hunt deep for sport, it is helping to control the population of these wild animals. Without hunting them, they would overrun their habitats, destroying them for other creatures and altering the entire ecology of their habitat.

These animals are wild. They are not bred. Their population must be controlled.

Breeding an animal for the specific purpose of pitting it in a death match against another animal is nowhere close to hunting.

Comparing breeding an animal for death to LEGALLY hunting other animals for food, population control and sport is RIDICULOUS.

You people need to stop watching so much TV. This is reality, where real actions have real consequences.

By mountain jim

August 16, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

You can’t edit your typos here Eyemus - but when I saw it appear I knew your comment was coming. Just because I mistyped a word does not change the fact that I have not eaten meat for 30 years, or about how long I have been a Falcons fan. Many here on this blog have never been a Falcons fan, and eat meat every day yet decry dog-fighting. You can LMAO all you want, but that’s Hypocrisy.

By Keeping it real !!!

August 16, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Larry why are you so hateful. If this was your son, brother, friend would you feel the same way? I don’t think so.

By B L

August 16, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Re: Fan of Atlanta

Until we start showing the same outrage towards crimes against HUMAN F—-ng Beings, toward all the wildlife we shoot year round for SPORT not out of necessity but for food(last I check there is plenty at Kroger and wherever else you shop) then stop acting like this guy is Hitler or something of the like.

We prosecute crimes against HUMAN F—ng Beings. As far as the food I shop for — when you show me a turkey that breaks out of the farm and mauls a child nearly to death, I’ll concede your point that dogfighting and using animals for food are morally equivalent.

By David Duke

August 16, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Poor Vick! oh, what to do/ does he plea and go directly to jail or does he tough it out and go to trial, having to face even more serious charges? If he takes a plea deal he’s still at the mercy of Judge Hudson who is not bound to accept government reccomendations. He can hand down a maximum sentence and that’s what he’s known for. If Vick goes to trial, and is found guilty on RICO violations, he could get ten or more years in prison. Also, he will face dogfighting and animal cruelty charges in Virginia. in addition, anybody remember Davon Boddie? he’s talking to the feds about Vick’s involvement in the sale of narcotics. Vick is so done! He will never be on a football field again, unless it’s one in the joint. I’m lovin’ it!

By Traceman

August 16, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Mark, I (for one) really appreciate you taking the time to write this blog to clarify your position on the Mike Vick situation. After I read your column yesterday, I felt that you were jabbing Vick with the proverbial needle (I can tell that many others did too based on the comments to the article).

The thoughts you articulated above are right in line with my thoughts on the situation. It is sad indeed and unfortunately, Mike has only himself to blame for being in this situation.

At any rate, THANK YOU for clarifying your thoughts. You certainly didn’t have to do so but I appreciate it.

By ExVickFan

August 16, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

EXCELLENT POINT, BETH. People who fight pitbulls use strays and other dogs for practice. It is horrible that any dog has to suffer but if ANYONE ever stole my dog Scout and used him as a bait dog and I knew who it was, that would be the last thing that person ever did because I would hunt them down and punish them that they would wish they had never been born. People that abuse dogs need to be punished and no one should EVER feel sorry for them. Feel sorry for the poor dogs.

By Vick Supporter

August 16, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Wow. Mountain Jim… You make some interesting comments. You have a good point.