AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2007 > October > 16 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFalcons’ flaws fully exposed
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Terence Moore
There were two objectives for the Falcons in this one. First, with much of the free world watching (at least the portion that gets ESPN), they didn’t want to get embarrassed on Monday Night Football. Second, with a flimsy group of peers in the NFC South, they actually had thoughts of resurrecting themselves from the dead in the division by winning the game.
Let’s just say the Georgia Dome was filled with more boos than bodies after the New York Giants exposed the Falcons as one of the NFL’s most dreadful teams.
Actually, the Falcons exposed themselves.
The receivers dropped six passes, including two by Alge Crumpler, who boldly announced after blasting his rookie NFL head coach last week that he was re-dedicating himself as a team leader. The defense was gashed by so many gigantic plays through the air that you would have thought this Manning named Eli was that other one named Peyton. Speaking of quarterbacks, the Falcons still don’t have one. Among other woes, Joey Harrington contributed to several of the Giants’ four sacks through indecisiveness.
One more thing: That fancy offense that Bobby Petrino was supposed to bring from college to the pros has produced one offensive touchdown in the last 10 quarters. This is the same Petrino who isn’t the people’s choice around the Falcons’ locker room for that and other reasons.
So, courtesy of a mostly self-inflicted beating of 31-10 at the hands of the Giants, Atlanta is 1-5 in the standings and counting.
Now what?
“We’ve said enough. It’s time for us to play, man,” said Crumpler, forcing a chuckle in a locker room that had a death-row feel — you know, right before somebody flips the switch. “Regardless of what’s going on with our feelings, we’ve just gotta cut it loose. It ain’t about one or two people. It’s about us. We spent the whole week trying to cut some of the tension and just trying to be positive. Just playing for each other.”
Some of that worked on the game’s opening drive, with the Falcons suggesting that they actually had a clue of how to control pass-rushing monsters Osi Umenyiora and Michael Strahan. It involved the employment of quick throws. So quick that those monsters didn’t have time to sink their fangs into the Falcons’ backup offensive tackles across the way.
The drive began at the Falcons’ 30-yard line and ended with Morten Andersen’s 47-yard field goal for a 3-0 lead and hope for the home team.
That hope was extended to the Falcons’ defense, with Rod Coleman and John Abraham doing much of the heavy lifting to make the Giants’ first drive quick and forgettable. Well, that was until the Falcons’ Demorrio Williams made it long and memorable by running into the punter. Just like that, Manning kept finding a variety of receivers in wide-open spaces, and that hope kept vanishing along the Giants’ easy path to the end zone.
The Giants used the same scenario on their next possession. And their next one. In fact, they sort of figured out early and often that the Falcons’ secondary had no concept on how to keep the Giants’ big three of Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer and Jeremy Shockey from catching Manning’s tosses with little resistance.
For the longest time, the Falcons’ biggest hope was represented by Jerious Norwood, owner of dramatically frantic legs that aren’t used frequently enough. Every game, there is talk from the Falcons’ coaching staff about using Norwood more. Every game, it only happens in spurts. None of those spurts was more impressive than when Norwood kept changing gears in the first quarter on his 67-yard sprint for a touchdown.
You’d have thought the Falcons would have featured the Norwood Offense after that.
You’d have thought.
Then again, you’d also have thought the Falcons would have been inspired in the third quarter on DeAngelo Hall’s interception return of 33 yards. Moments later, with Harrington scrambling to keep his limbs in tact, and with another receiver dropping a pass, and with the crowd hissing, the Falcons were punting. That was the only thing they perfected for the night.
Well, that and the art of looking absolutely dysfunctional.
Permalink | Comments (204) | Post your comment | Categories: Falcons / NFL, Terence Moore
Comments
By Billy
October 16, 2007 7:24 AM | Link to this
Sadly, not only have Alge Crumpler and Warrick Dunn hurt us with dropped passes and missed blocks resulting in sacks (both of which was quite evident Monday night), but their mouths have hurt us worse than that.
First, it is an obvious selfish act. It shows the “me” mentality that seems to be developing in the locker room. Secondly, they are not only hurting us now, but hurting us in the future. By openly bashing our coach, what free agents would ever want to come to such a hostile environment? Furthermore, what fan wants to go support a product, when the product itself is criticizing openly? “Being realistic”, I can appreciate. Selfish—-“this ain’t my fault”… I as a longtime fan cannot.
Thankfully perhaps up and coming stars like Boley and Norwood will look to leaders who submit to their authority, suit up, and go earn respect like Brooking and the likes therof.
Speaking of Norwood, Moore mentioned mentioned the Falcons should have ran him more… which I am sure we all would agree. But then… would’nt that have caused Dunn to cry even more? I am not a Ron Jaworski fan, but thank God he was willing to tell the country the truth about our “whiners”.
I appreciate all the “good works” Dunn does in the community. But he needs to know that his good works does not give him a right to pull down his team and this city of football fans with his mouth and poor performance.
I can wait on a program that is rebuilding. I will support a program that still needs some pieces and some time to get things together… even if it don’t come until next year. I CAN’T tolerate such a display of selfish disloyalty from those who purport themselves to be “men” and “leaders”.
By Atlanta-Home of semi pro football
October 16, 2007 7:26 AM | Link to this
The grim death march through the NFL season continues…
If last night’s game proves anything,its that Bobby Petrino is an excellent college football coach.Too bad the ‘birds can’t schedule Murray State…
By D Nice
October 16, 2007 7:28 AM | Link to this
If I’m Vick I don’t want to come back
By Dog The Man
October 16, 2007 7:37 AM | Link to this
I wonder.. The Falcons need to go to Oz and get some heart, brains and courage. I watched the entire game and was just appalled. The defense did not tackle and the offense is just abysmal. The bad thing is that they will draft a punter with the second overall pic..
By Captain Truth
October 16, 2007 7:37 AM | Link to this
DeAngelo Hall is horrible. Gets exposed every week.
By Rico
October 16, 2007 7:38 AM | Link to this
Coach Bobby Petrino has to be kicking himself silly for accepting this job and leaving Louisville.
By FALCON TRADITION
October 16, 2007 7:41 AM | Link to this
These ARE your fathers Falcons. The long tradition of losing continues. The long tradition of embarassment on National Television continues. The current Falcon organization is full of members that do not clearly understand their roles. You have an owner tht wants to be a GM. A GM with limited ability or willingness to stand up to the owner on important decisions. A coach that will be at LSU next year. Players that refuse to execute game plans.
Again………SAME FALCONS…..SAME LOSING TRADITION
I PLAN ON PURCHASING A BILLBOARD AND PLACING THE FOLLOWING HEADLINE……. “LOSING…..AN ATLANTA FALCON TRADITION”
Any other suggestions for a headline??
By fatz
October 16, 2007 7:45 AM | Link to this
maybe we should just save the water and shut the dome down for the season. arthur can collect ALL the bonuses and expand the salary cap. either start over next year if it rains or move the team to LA and finally give atlantans some peace.
By falconut
October 16, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this
I can’t see how people keep killing Joey. He’s not great, but he’s not the problem. He stood in there and took the hits to deliver the ball and he receivers, tight-ends and running back let him down by dropping the ball. His line doesn’t block very good, either. Also, the play calling isn’t helping. I’m so sick of seeing Dunn up the middle on 1st down for 2 yards. Sorry Crumpler, but I agree a youth movement is needed. Norwood needs to be the feature back and Dunn needs to be moved back to a 3rd down back. If Crumple can’t catch the ball, then lets try the others.
The defense played well in the begining. Again, they make a stop and a stupid penalty keeps the drive alive. How many times is somebody going to do this? But, they aren’t getting a pass rush at all. Apparently they only have 1 guy (Abraham) that can rush the passer.
It’s pretty bad now. But hey, the draft is about 6 months away. I’ll still watch every game and route for them, but come on. Better coaching and playing is needed.
By FALCON TRADITION
October 16, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this
Captain Truth,
I have to correct you on something….DeAngelo Hall had a good game…..if you understand schemes and coverages. He properly executed his responsibilities in the scheme. On the touchdown….D. Williams did not establish proper depth on his drop back.
As a matter of fact…he is Demarrio is the one that had an awful game. 1. roughing the kicker 2. gave up the touchdown in the first quarte. 3. took the wrong angle on another touchdown …late in the game. He is very talented, but is easy to scheme against.
By Brian Parkman
October 16, 2007 7:49 AM | Link to this
Norwood ran the ball 6 TIMES. That is a disgrace. Agree with you totally Terence. It’s stupid for Petrino to talk about how Norwood needs to get more touches and then he doesn’t give him that ball. He takes it to the end zone on one of his long runs, and then carries the ball a few more times the whole night. Does Petrino have a clue?
By AA
October 16, 2007 7:53 AM | Link to this
Although I could care less if the Falcons lose because my boy is not there, I kind of feel bad for Petrino because I know he is a good Coach, I cannot say the same for the GM. McKay got this good reputation in Tampa but it is awful here. On the bright side, Andre Woodson should be avaliable for you guys with the first pick in the draft, better yet take Dorsey from LSU, he is a beast on the D Line and Atlanta do not have any mean monsters that I can think of.
By The Ultimate Choptimist
October 16, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this
I am not a VIck fan at all..I never want him back in a Falcons unie ever. That said, I now believe that if he could survive behind that ridiculously pitiful O-Line and those stupid receivers, and still put up 8+ wins a year, he earned that money that Blank is trying to take back.
By chb
October 16, 2007 8:01 AM | Link to this
HARRIINGTON IS NOT THE PROBLEM! He was harrassed by the defense all night and had no time to set up to throw the ball. His receivers dropped numerous balls. The offensive line was truly dreadful and the defensive effort was uninspiring. Its very typical to blame the quarterback for a loss but in this case the sum of all the other parts accounts for this poor performance.
By FALCON TRADITION
October 16, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this
Simple fact……..This is the first 1 - 5 start for the team in five years. No suggestions or inferences…just a little fact for all of you to take in.
By JROD
October 16, 2007 8:16 AM | Link to this
The receivers have been bad for atleast three or four years, the defense is average at best, and JOEY HARRINGTON is a scrub. How many 18 for 39 are you going to allow him to get away with. He is not the sole problem by any means, but he is definitely not the solution. I cant believe they are this bad. I guess MV7 wasnt that bad as a qb.
By southern boy
October 16, 2007 8:27 AM | Link to this
you all got what you wanted,NOW LIVE WITH IT……THE EXCITMENT IS GONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!
By Eternal Optimist
October 16, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this
How far has Mike Vick set back the Atlanta franchise. I argue that the Atlanta franchise being set back has little to do with Vick. The Falcons have the same issues that they had when Vick has here. Poor offensive line play, poor pass catchers, inability to run the ball in the redzone, and a weak dline and middle lb. All of that can’t be laid at the feet of one player, even if he is the qb. When Vick has leading the team these issues were supposedly all on him, now that he’s not here to place the blame on all of a sudden everyone is looking for someone else to place the blame on. I personally don’t blame Joey. I mean he is what he always has been-mediocre at best. Bringing in another lumbering qb with a slow delivery in Leftwich was another bone headed impulsive idea. Our draft picks have yet to show up so you have to wonder will this team ever bring a championship to the great state of GA.
By JEL
October 16, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this
This team has never been able to win without Vick. There are only 3 players on the offensive side of the ball and 3 maybe 4 on the defense that belong in the NFL. I have yet to see Brooking make anything other then a rugby tackle 5-7 yards down the field. How he was ever nominated as a pro-bowl player is beyond me. This is a personnel problem folks not a coaching problem. So if you want to point fingers…start with McKay who’s responsible for assembling this lack of talent.
By JEL
October 16, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this
This team has never been able to win without Vick. There are only 3 players on the offensive side of the ball and 3 maybe 4 on the defense that belong in the NFL. I have yet to see Brooking make anything other then a rugby tackle 5-7 yards down the field. How he was ever nominated as a pro-bowl player is beyond me. This is a personnel problem folks not a coaching problem. So if you want to point fingers…start with McKay who’s responsible for assembling this lack of talent.
By falconfan410
October 16, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this
our coaching staff is horrible!horrible!horrible! I cant understand the play calling nor the schemes. im ashamed to be a fan!
By GeorgiaYankeesFan
October 16, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this
This team needs to be imploded. On a Sunday where 44 yr old Vinny Testeverde can step on the field and lead his team to victory, it is clear the Falcs lack the talent, heart, desire and overall leadership to get the job done. Obviously something is rotten in Flowery Branch. I thought after all of the hardship this summer they would come together, but it is clear that this team is full of prima donnas. Say what you want about Petrino but he can’t step on the field and catch balls or cover receivers. After seeing D - Hall get lit up AGAIn, I think we make an example out of him and run him out of town. Now this week we will hear the calls for Byron Leftwich. But he will be plagued with what cost Vick and now Harrington players who are just not getting the job done.
By long time falcon
October 16, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this
Arthur Blank = Rankin Smith and family! The same problems that plagued the falcons during the Smith years is happening now. POOR DRAFTS! This team looks terrible not because of coaching but because we don’t have any talent. Our last two top draft picks are complete and total bust. My grandma could rush the Quarterback better than Jamal Anderson. Watch a game and just focus in on him and see how he gets totally dominated by average right tackles. He’s pathetic. Jimmy Williams is another in a long line of overrated VT players that mcKay has drafted. He certainly has athletic abilty but zero instincts in pass coverage. Until blank either sells the falcons or hires a capable GM and gets out of his way this will continue to be loserville USA. No sense in looking to next years draft with Richie Mckay at the helm because he will certainly screw it up. This team is sorry because of a total lack of overall talent.
By Billy
October 16, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this
Ok people. Please tell me that our fan base is not as ignorant as many of these comments read. HELLO! Petrino is not the one, missing blocks (which by the way- any intelligent fan could see that it was running backs, and tight ends (CRUMBLER) missing them as well as the offensive line). Petrino is not the one playing linebacker and missing the coverage. Petrino is not the one missing field goals. Petrino is not the one getting RIDICULOUS penalties costing us good defensive stands, or in some cases…the game itself. Petrino is not the one dropping passes for first downs. It would have been interesting to see what we could have produced had we not dropped all those first down passes. How can Petrino be responsible? How can you blame the scheme when he cannot even put a drive together due to men getting paid big bucks to do simple things, failing on their job—- and then griping about lack of play!? Maybe Norwood would have gotten the ball more, on the play that was coming AFTER OUR MOUTHY TIGHT END DROPPED YET ANOTHER PASS AND FAILED TO PICK UP THE FIRST DOWN. Come on fans. You have a right to complain, and there is much to complain about, but is really all you can say stuff about Vick and Petrino? If WE ignore the true problems, as it seems like SOME of the players are, we are guilty of the same defeatest mentality that will never remedy the problem. Unless we see that PLAYERS drop passes, PLAYERS miss blocks, PLAYERS miss kicks, PLAYERS are getting DUMB penalties, PLAYERS are pulling down the locker room by being CLASSLESS in their defense of THEIR poor play by blaming the coaches… then things will never get better. Yet, all I read is the fans falling for the very thing those same incapable players want you to do—- blame someone besides them. Everyone of US are held accountable for doing OUR job everyday… why are you not holding the PLAYERS accountable for not doing theirs? PLEASE don’t make the matter worse, with such poor, unintelligent commentary.
By Maurice
October 16, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this
I don’t agree with what Vick has done but why take back the 20 million? Just renegotiate his contract in favor of the salary cap and bring him back at some point. At least that gives the fans hope. We are about to loose Falcons fans for years to come! This place will be electrifying if he ever steps his feet on that field again!
By Matt
October 16, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this
JROD, If you were watching the game you would have noticed that there were about 6 dropped passes. 5 of them would have moved the chains… Take that in consideration Joey would have completed 24 of 33 passes for at the minimal 265 yards. Joey gives this team the best option to win. Some of the playcalling I don’t agree with, but I think it would be better if some of these whining veterans would execute. I like coach Petrino but I do not think he will be successful until this team is built solely on youth-enthusiasm-team spirit and respect for the coaching staff… Lets give this man a couple years to get the team that fits his style. I don’t think we will be dissapointed if we exercise a little patience! GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!
By fred
October 16, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this
VICKLESS FALCONS IS THE PROBLEM COACH PETRINO CAME HERE EXPECTING HIM. ARTHUR BLANK KNOW WITHOUT HIM THIS TEAM IS TERRIBLE AND IS TALENTLESS ALL PROBLEMS OF PREVIOUS YEARS GO FIGURE 1-15
By savethecityHAWKS
October 16, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this
i though d hall was a shutdown corner they wen at him like he was a rookie last nite drop passes missed tackles gettin beat on pass plays the falcons really stink and last nite they showed they whole country they stank
By RBattle
October 16, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this
I keep hearing it said that MeAngelo is a good cover corner. Can someone please explain it to because i’m confused!!!!!
By savethecityHAWKS
October 16, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this
yea number 98 is a bumm why did we waste a 1st round pick on this guy he doenst do anything cant wait for those blackouts to come
By GS
October 16, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this
So is this Mike Vick’s fault too?Free Mike Vick.
By savethecityHAWKS
October 16, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this
the falcons been horrible all the blame was on mv7 to play qb right get the receivers the ball we see why he couldt the line cant block the receivers cant catch the defense cant stop and coach cant coach. mora never had a 1-5 record
By SCOTT
October 16, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this
I’LL JUST LET OUT A BIG LAUGH AT YOU HATERS WHO WANTED MIKE VIKE OUT AS QB HE WAS THE TEAM BUT LOOK AT YOUR FALCONS NOW LMAO HAHHAHHAHHAHAHAHAH
By long time falcon
October 16, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this
Here are a couple defensive players drafted right after the falcons picked Anderson at #8.
10- Amobi okoye- 4 sacks, 1 forced fumble. This guy hasn’t even scratched the surface of his potential. Will play in multible pro bowls and could possibly become the best interior lineman in the league. 11- Patrick Willis- 50 tackles, 1 forced fumble. Go ahead and pencil him in for a trip to Hawaii for the next decade. Can you say mike singletary! 15- Darrel Revis- 42 tackles, 1 forced fumble. Starting as a rookie at one of the toughest positions in the league. Playing the corner position like a seasoned vet already. His ceiling is sky high.Reggie Nelson-FS- Picked in the low twenties. 16 tackles, 1 sack, 1 int, 1 forced fumble. Showing great ball insticts at the safety position just like he did when he was a big time SEC stud.
Any of these players would have helped the falcons porous defense but just like always we found the dud on draft day. I’m telling all falcon fans who will listen- OUR TEAM IS IN DISARRAY BECAUSE OF AWFUL PERSONNEL DECISIONS. Teams like the steelers go to the playoffs on a consistent basis because they draft very well. Bottom line.
By dredd_one
October 16, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this
On the Bobby Ball not working comment…I believe the current Patriots coach looked pretty bad in Cleveland until he went somewhere that bought into his system. Coach Petrino is still hamstrung by the sorry O-Line he inherited most of. Of which, paying lots of dollars to a QB who isn’t playing didn’t help. Coach also can’t block, catch balls, or release balls quicker. Coach also doesn’t isn’t the one making stupid penalties at big moments in the game to kill stops or drives. So when the blocking and catching starts (not the mouth-running) and the pentalties stop we will see about Bobby Ball. What he can do is stop running Warrick up the middle…that might helps some too.
By gatorhater
October 16, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this
Congats Bobby Petrino. You have single handily ruined the Falcons & Lousiville with one bad decision after another
By ro
October 16, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this
The Ultimate Choptimist and JROD. I agree with you, wholeheartedly. The problems that the Falcons have are not new. MV7 never had the “cradle” to pass down the field(Jaworski’s term). Defenses were on him within two counts. The receivers are still dropping critical passes. The defense still can not stop the run and the pass defense is not consistent. Many people on this blog pinned all the blame on MV7. While Joey Harrington is not a great quarterback, the problem isn’t his fault, either. Until the Falcons get a decent O-line, the passing will suffer and the run game will be non-existent. Warrick Dunn and Algie Crumpler miss the presence of MV7. It is time for an upgrade at both positions. Jerious Norwood should be given the nod over Dunn. I am sure that it is hard for Algie to get used to NOT being the primary target. Falcons also lost alot of time and money trading for Hartwell and I wonder if John Abraham is really worth the draft choices and money paid for him? I really think it may be time for the Falcons to go into the rebuilding process. There are too many areas to correct.
Just my opinion.
By BW
October 16, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Without Vick, you see how poorly this team plays with essentially the same people on offense. It is amazing he was able to generate 7 and 8 wins with this pathetic bunch. This team was much better when Dan Reeves was around, not great but better. They did go to Green Bay and win a play off game against the great Brett Favre. And the only reason Mora won in his 1st year was becasue he had someone else’s players. The falcons problems extend beyond the players on the field, though. It extends to the person who put together these players, namely McKay. Whose idea was it to draft Michael Jenkins and so far I don’t see much out of Jamaal Anderson. As long as Mckay is choosing the players, nothing is going to change. As for the ownership, Blank saw a great way to improve his investment by signing Vick to a long term deal to continue to reap the benefits of a sold out GA Dome, he too a risk by spending that much of his salary cap on one player, but i guess he had to do that to get anyone to play behind tht O-line. Now, if the Falcons do not get the money back from Vick, which they may not, the team will take salary cap hits for the next few several years. Can you blame Vick for this, by this I mean the owner’s greed, oh i mean investment risk. Again the problem is not so much on the field as it is upstairs, Mckay has to go and Blank needs to step aside a little.
By sharon
October 16, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this
The Ultimate Choptimist I agree with you 100%. At least with Vick they never looked pathetic. With Vick at the helm you knew there was a chance the Falcons could come back if they fell behind. He made the game so exciting. I had predicted a 4-12 season without him. I don’t see where they are going to get the other three wins.
By JROD
October 16, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this
Matt,
If Joey gives this team the best chance to win the season is over. I agree the receivers are pathetic but they have been pathetic for a long time. Plus I am into W’s not passing stats. I dont want joey as my qb because he cant make plays, he takes really bad sacks and he hurts the running game because they dont respect the pass. Also petrino is a fool for only running norwood six times. That was just stupid. Not only that i dont want to here about what is going to happen in two or three years, the future is now. I thought this was a veteran team? Now you are saying this team is allowed to nose dive for a couple of years just because vick isnt here? Boy have expectation dropped considerably
By jarrodmon
October 16, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this
When are you clowns going to accept that Vick committed a felony? It isn’t the Falcons or the fans fault that he did that. You can’t take felony offenses off the books because they are committed by a star football player.
Sure hope that Louisville QB Petrino will be taking with the #1 pick next year can play without an O line, because team management will never grasp the fact that you have to have one to compete in the NFL.
By coach e
October 16, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this
Brooking looked very bad. I know he is the home grown kid, team captain and ex-pro bowl player, evertheless, he looked very bad last night (and many times in the past). It’s time for Tony Taylor to move into the MLB position. coach e
By RP
October 16, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this
Well, it was the JV vs. the Varsity once again. Another embarrassing professional athletic performance by an Atl. sports francise. History continues to repeat itself: dropped passes, porous defense, poor offensive line,selection of over the hill veterans(Malloy, Horn) seeking one last “sucker” I mean contract before retiring, failure to have back to back winning seasons, no player in NFL Hall of fame. Welcome to the home of Loosersville,USA.
By Billy
October 16, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this
OK- never mind the insistence on intelligence from the typical Atlanta fan. Not only do you use these current dilemmas to insert an asanine comment about Mike Vick… YOU CAN’T EVEN SPELL WHILE DOING IT. Pardon me for even assuming we could have intelligent dialogue with you all. Surely you have some answers for this team beyond comments about Vick.
By MikeJones
October 16, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this
MEangelo has one value for this team… PUNT RETURNER. I guess Eli didn’t get the memo that MEangelo is a “shut down corner”. Alot of QBs will hear this and not really test him during a game. Well all Eli was a small DB about 5 yards off the receiver so he went at him again, and again, and again, and again. If I have to see that stupid little waist towel fly up in the air one more time as MEangelo gives up another 15 yard pass I’m seriously gonna puke. He is HORRIBLE. He made one play on a long bomb that was underthrown and then showed his only talent that he has told Bobby P he will not do for this team as he ran it back 33 yards looking like could be an elite punt returner. This boy is what is wrong with the falcons. Overpaid primma-donnas (mostly form VT) who think they r good gift to football WITH NOTHING TO BACK IT UP. I feel fairly confident well let him walk or sign and trade him but with McKay you never know. I don’t see this team getting much more then maybe 2 more wins. Will Miami pass on Andre Woodson???
By Mark
October 16, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
Now you guys see why Michael Vick meant soo much to this team, Warrick Dunn now looks like an old man, Crumpler is compaining, an the O-line still sucks. Look man, I’m for change but for the good not the worst. LET’S HOPE MICHAEL VICK IS ABLE TO COME BACK IN THE FUTURE,and the 1 good thing you have on this team is NORWOOD and he can’t even get more than 6 touches in a game. PETRINO, do us a favor quit trying to coach and give the FANS what they want. YOUR STYLE OF PLAY IS NOT EXITING AT ALL, EVEN WHEN WE WIN IT”S STILL BORING TO WATCH!!!!!!!!!!!
By Scott?
October 16, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this
Scott, your ignorance shows loudly. “You Haters” What does that mean? You think we “wanted” this? We hate that Mike Vick was stupid enough to disgrace the Falcons organization and city by committing a felony dogfighting offense. We hate the so-called Vick supporters chanting, “Free Mike Vick.” Free him from what? We also hate that our Pro Bowl TE along with WR Roddy White and Michael Jenkins can’t catch a pass!
The Falcons would be just as awful if #7 was the quarterback.
By Billy
October 16, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this
Excellent commentary dredd_one. Finally- another educated truth teller.
By dredd_one
October 16, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this
Hey SCOTT,
Obviously a Vick fan and not a Falcons fan, but we’ll address your point anyway. The problem with the offense is the same it has been for the last several years. We spent too much money in other areas and not enough on offensive linemen. This is why Vick had to “one thousand one…one thousand run”. That is also the reason why he gave us a better chance to win. ONly a mobile (not the best quarterback…just the most mobile) gave us a chance to win on Sundays. He had to run and had the capability to do so. Any other quarterback with this line would die a quick death. Harrington can be a serviceable QB, but not on his back. If you notice, Manning, Vick, Rothlesberger, and even the vaunted Brady can’t complete passes on their back or to people who can’t catch them.
By no_id
October 16, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this
no teams fear the falcons now..teams see the schedule and chalk it up as a win when they play us..warrick dunn please do us all a favor and just retire cause your golden years are gone and the reason behind your 1000 yard seasons was cause of vick..good person off the field but past your prime..why are they not using norwood more than dunn? ..norwood is like the only playmaker on this team since the other play maker we have is currently preparing to serve his time..the whole franchise is at blame..players, coaches, gm, owner, etc….dont just blame vick..everyone should have stepped up like the said they would.
By Nigel
October 16, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this
I watched how horrible, the team that Mr. Blank and Mr. McKay has put together. I’m amazed at how sub par we are at every phase of the game (except Linebacking which I think is decent). Receiving Game (Questionable), Passing Game (Decent)…I know that sounds oxymoronic… but the Number 13 does put the ball where its supposed to be WHEN he has time. The key word is time. The reason why time is so important is because… You just dont realize how bad our offensive line is until… you reflect on how many busted plays Number 7 turned into first downs and +10 yard runs.
We should have known how bad they (the offensive line) were when were bragging about leading the league in rushing… and I now I realize that I had a quarterback who rushed for a thousand yards because he was back there running for his life.
Forget what you heard…. Mr. Blank… I want Number “7” BACK. If not I see us going back to the days until June Jones and Marion Campbell (yeah, I’m old school) Yes, Mike Vick is not a choir boy. Yes, Mike Vick needs some mentoring (a whole lot actually), but he’s OUR quarterback. He is not the QB of some organization in VA dictating to world with no accountability for their actions. We’ll leave the quarterbacking of their organzation to their Executive Director (due repect Ms. Newkirk). Football is a game of consistency…. which needs a combination of skilled athletes and nasty personalities.
We’ve seen New England sign Randy Moss. We’ve seen Dallas sign TO and Tank. Character is good…. Character is healthy… When you are on the golf course. When are we going to get our “Nasties” to love…and only we love? Philly has had them …. New York has had them. Oakland has had them. LA has had them (thats the Rams and Raiders for you New Schooler’s). Hmmm… Winning organizations. (ya’ think)
Mr. Blank…. I know you are a man of character. I know you are a man of substance. We promise not to let the peronality of a nasty football team “reflect” on you… or should I say hold you accountable to grown’s men’s behavior.
But I can undoubtedly tell you that a LOSING football team will reflect on you. I’m a native…. Ask the “Insurance Folks” (the Smiths)
We, the City of Atlanta fanfare want our quarterback back. And we want our NASTIES. Forget what 680 says …. forget what 790 says. We want football players not choir boys. There is a reason why the game is played on Sunday.
Bring back Alex Gibbs. Bring Back back Number 7, Sign us some Big Nasties. We appreciate it.
Signed….
A season ticket holder.
By coastal jim
October 16, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this
1-D. Williams, can you really be that stupid. 2-D. Hall, Amani Toomer is old enough to be your dad, and I’m as close to him as you were all night. 3-Alge, WTF. 4-Dunn appears done. 5-Mike Zimmer, at some point you MIGHT try some corner/safety blitzes, and/or press coverage to get them out of their pitch and catch mode. 6-I’ll bet Billy Cundiff can kick a football 48 yards. 7-Offensive line, please hit somebody. 8-I wish Rich McKay had gotten the commissioner’s job. 9-Bobby Petrino, have fun at Auburn, or whereever you’re having your next cup of coffee. 10-Arthur Blank, if you want to revitalize your fan base, you MUST hire people who have a clue, and you ABSOLUTELY MUST build an OUTDOOR stadium. That thing you call a stadium was a morgue last night. Both Steve Young and Jimmy Kimmel were talking about how few people were in the stands, and how quiet it was.
P.S.-I’m available. You can contact me by e-mail.
By Paul
October 16, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this
Was the game yesterday for real? I saw only one NFL team out there playing, I think they are the Giants!
C’mon, whether you like or don’t like D.Hall, he played a good game. I was looking for the much touted Petrino spread offense sports casters were talking about. I must have dozed off (not hard to do) off when the Petrino spread offense was on the field. Does anyone know where I can find some clips?
With receivers dropping passes, offensive line breaking down, running Dunn up the middle for 1 and 2 yards for 1st and 2nd downs, it doesn’t matter who the QB is, he is going to be the scapegoat. Does anyone out there think Peyton Manning, Tom Brady or Brett Favre( 3 best in the business) could have won the game yesterday?
This coaching staff seems to expect a different result by doing the same thing week after week, some wise man once said it is the sign of insanity.
Moreover, this coaching staff has lost the heart and soul of the players and I do hope Petrino and gang moves on to LSU. No reason for wasting 3 or 4 years trying to rebuild this team with this cast characters.
Mr. Blank, if and when this cast of coaching comedians leave, please go hire an experienced NFL coach with a winning record. You don’t have an organization for experimenting with Asst. Coaches and College coaches, you tried it with Moron and Peteredout. Learn from your mistakes.
By the way to those hallucinating about MV, he is gone forever from this team and from the NFL period. He ain’t playing nomor!
Stop hallucinating or stop talking after taking whatever you’ll taking.
By arichey
October 16, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this
the season was lost when vick was convicted.i wonder where all the peta football fans are.there are plenty of seats in the dome.again leonard little kills a human drunk driving and vick is suppose to pay for his mistake as well as the dogfighting that is still going on that he is not part of.8 games suspension for offing a human life kill a dog and they banish you from the planet.thank peta for your help in stopping all the other dog fighting still going strong.hey where the hell are you now???????is vick all you wanted?????sure looks like it from my view i have not heard from you idiots in a while but oopps!!!!i just stepped on an ant i beeter run before i get life in prison!!!!!!!
By Paul
October 16, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this
Terrence,
Nice write-up on the pitifully pathetic performance last night.
Was that a professionals playing or impersonators. I coudn’t tell, could you?
By Herb
October 16, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
Vick is gone. Get over it and move on. Good teams have built their offensive line to their quarterback. Look at Green Bay, Indianapolis and NYG. Give Joey Harrington good protection, receivers that can catch and you are as good as the aforementioned teams.
Defensively if every player played as hard at Brookings, Abraham, Coleman they would be as good as anyone in this league.
Overall give this coaching staff time. They inherited a sewer stinking mess. They will make this team respectable.
By CDS
October 16, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this
Between that town hall meeting, and this game, ESPN has been a source of embarrassment for the Falcons. And to think they’ll be down here on the same day that Vick goes to jail.
But some of these idiots almost 4 months later cannot seem to understand that the Falcons and the fans that disliked Vick weren’t the problem. Vick committed a felony, and he will go to jail. So get over it.
And will someone please tell Byron Leftwich to shut it? He somehow believes he is the saving grace for this team. Out of the QB’s we have, Joey is our best option. He doesn’t turn the ball over that much.
I see this team as the result of poor decisions by Rich McKay and Arthur Blank. They bet the farm on a thug, and never brought in the talent to help him. This will not be a successful team for years to come. It will take at least 3-4 seasons to rebuild this team. If you want to place the blame, blame McKay, Blank, and Vick.
By georgiadawgg
October 16, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this
falcons lose again next week.saints will stomp them.but harrington, is our quarterback says dumbass petrino. why does atlanta pick up all the rejects from other teams. mckay needs to be given a one way ticket out of town. and blank you suck as a owner.
By Jim Rome
October 16, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this
Please keep telling yourselves Joey Harrington is not the problem…..this guy has never won anywhere (except Oregon) he’s been. He’s a back-up (at best) in the NFL. He DOES NOT give you the best chance to win. Can’t Norwood play QB? Good luck with Joey “Blue-Skies” the rest of the year….. From Detroit.
By Cairo
October 16, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this
Uncle T,
Why didn’t you have a follow up to your article yesterday about #56 “Brooking consistent through ups and downs?” He is consistently getting run over, through and around. He got trucked on that first touchdown run straight up the gut. I am sick people sugarcoating this guys NON existent game. He sucks and you have the nerve to focus on this offense. This defense with #56 as the leader sucks. Get a grip!
By Buck up boys!
October 16, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this
Turned fifty this year and have been a fan of this team since day one. I have to laugh at you weenies because let me tell you something.
THIS AIN’T CLOSE TO THE WORST FALCON TEAM!
This is however a more typical team. It has been a bigger drop because the ownership is better but the players acquired are just as bad.
Teams are winning games with FG’s over 50yrds. McKay hasn’t even really attempted to solve this problem. Same in the defensive backfield and both lines. Hot knife through butter guys.
As far as taking a QB first (lets be honest we need 22 first round picks) who’s to say whomever we pick won’t be another bust? I mean Joey was the third player picked.
And over these years I’ve learned one thing…if there is the wrong player or coach to be picked then god knows he’ll be an Atlanta Falcon.
By JROD
October 16, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this
Billy,
The reason why people bring up vick when talking about how bad the falcons are this year is because vick received all the blame the last two years when the team wasnt a playoff team, however w/out him as qb the team is even worse. Also the only reason this team is even remotely relevant is because of the vick years. Let me also say i know what vick did was wrong and I realize he is going to jail. That said I hope he gets an opportunity to qb this team again because I believe he is a great talent who plays hard. And atleast when vick was here we demanded excellence from the team. That is not the case anymore. Lastly, i agree that the spelling of individuals need to improve but it is clear you was aiming to belittle them not offer constructive criticism
By Airfalcon
October 16, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this
Last year this team had spirit and fight. I don’t see it this year so something has obviously changed. Where is the player leadership from last year. This coaching staff seems to have lost the players. Can’t blame that on VICK.
By BigBirdFan
October 16, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this
This season is over unless the players can get together off the field. The team is better on paper than on the field. They have to many off field issues. They are going to have to work together as a team and find better leaders. Their hearts are not in the games. They are playing like a high school team. The veterans seems to be the biggest problem, they are blaming others for their mistakes.
I don’t agree with a lot of the play calls and I can understand why some players will have a problem with the coaching staff. How can you have 5 and 3 turnovers and still lose the game?
There is a serious disconnect with this team.
By georgiadawgg
October 16, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this
why post your comments, the communist AJC newspaper want post them. you suck AJC.
By Section 137
October 16, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this
Why is there no backlash against on Rich McKay and Arthur Blank for assembling this awful team. Even when Mike “I love puppies” Vick was here, the Birds were not very good. This administration has done nothing to make it better. McKay has to go! I’ve never seen a team as bad in all three phases of the game — offense, defense and special teams. The best player on the team is a kicker who is getting AARP subscriptions!
By Chris
October 16, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this
Guess Algernon won’t have much to say the rest of the season.
CATCH THE DAMN BALL AND SHUT YOUR DAMN MOUTH!!! DID COACH PETRINO’S YOUNG’UNS MAKE YOU DROP THOSE PASSES?
I guess I’m a sucker. I’m a season ticket holder, and I actually thought they could turn it around. Boy, was I wrong.
Anyone need some tickets?
By Steve Hatchett
October 16, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this
It’s all part of Dan Reeves diabolical plan to return to power. Wake up Atlanta!
By Chris
October 16, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this
Is it really possible that the Hawks could be the best Atlanta team this year?
By Billy
October 16, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
JROD,
Not trying to belittle anyone… just drawing the obvious comparisons between their lack of spelling properly and their constant banter about problems other than the reality. For the record I was a huge Vick fan, and too hope he gets well and gets back. I would support seeing #7 again- HOWEVER- there are more obvious problems going on and once again you submit a commentary on everything but. If Vick comes back (and yet I doubt he will)- but if he comes back to this team with its CURRENT problems- face it- we have many new problems, from faces that were not problems before, then Vick would not be able to solve them either. Alge Crumpler may have been just forcasting what NEEDS to be done… look at the attitude of some of the young guys. Thankful, gracious, and productive (Jamal Anderson lacking the last but in time…). We’re losing and have to be subjected to poor play AND poor character. Atlanta, its owner and the REST of the team, deserves better. Surely we see middle ground on such.
By Carmine
October 16, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
Note to Atlanta, forget about Mike Vick, it’s over, move on. Enough already with him, it was a good time at the Dome, but the organization has made it clear (and they really don’t have much of a choice) that the #7 in the GA Dome is finished.
Why some people are surprised by this start makes no sense to me. What has Joey Harrington ever shown in the past that would lead to the conclusion of some “sports people” (The Sports Guy)and fans to think they had any chance of being a decent team?
Now, if you’re not drinking the corporate Kool-Aid, a 3-13 season can’t be the worse situation here.
What we are forgetting is this type of offence requires a decent QB to run it!You bring in a kid like Brian Brohm (who’s played in it at Louisville) to run “Petrino Ball” and then maybe you got something.
Otherwise, what does 8-8 do for a team that needs to get themselves another franchise QB and begin the post-Vick era. As the old saying goes, sometimes you have to take a step back to take a few steps forward.
And finally, allow me to supply a map to everyone who is lost. 3-13 is not a bad thing Falcons fans!
By Nigel
October 16, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
that was funny!!!!!!!!!
By GS
October 16, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
Stop blaming Vick. The commissioner decided to suspend him this season. You all keep saying Felony offense, like it really is that serious what he was involved in. Come on, you all wish the penalty wouldn’t have been what it was called so that he could continue playing. Thank the powers that be for making it a FELONY offense level, to satisfy some (2) interest groups. Now the most exciting player is not playing. Dof fighting is not worth calling a Felony and certainly not worth anyone losing their career. I don’t care who has been penalized in the past. But he’s still not to blame for what is going on with the Falcon’s; they had since 1st day Training camp, to start with NO DISTRACTIONS, they should be focused by now. Play for their own salary. But what you see is lack of talent. I’m sure the players wish that he was still here. Looking over the entire situation, it wasn’t as serious as they pumped it up. Come on, we all wish he was still playing. At least with this team the watching was exciting, now it’s just boring watching good guy losers play. So much for good character and nice guys. Maybe all QB’s should have Peyton mannings personality, all teams would be at the Superbowl, huh?
Ever wish we could go back to leaving players off the field actions off the field, and focus in on the talent, for which they were hired for show? Let’s just go and get some preachers to play QB. Then you’ll have a more purified league, NFL.
Signed, season ticket holder.
By Paul
October 16, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
Jim Rom
Please go look at the QB stats and NFLdotcom.
Harrington has better rating than Jason Campbell of Redskins behind the Falcons Offensive Line.
Give Harrington semi decent offensive line and let us see what happens. He can’t throw the ball when there is no one open and always playing to get 8 and 9 yards on third downs with no running game period.
Problems are many on this team and the least important of all is Harrington. Like some one mentioned, Falcons need 22 players, let us make it 21 and let us go get them, then worry about the 22nd being the QB!
By Rob johnson
October 16, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this
Sad, I was there when the stadium was built in 1965, attended the first pre-season game againsit the charges; the game last night reminded me of the year 1966 and every year afterward. Around 1982 or 1983 the team started to improve, later Arthur purchased the team, Vick was the answer; I never thought I would say this, but, Billy has is right. We need to await sentencing on 10 Dec and hope Mike is available in two or three years, he will still be a young man. Vinny just provied that this weekend. Of all the young talent from the college ranks, we continue to overlook the intelligent players, how does one play line backer and get beat on every other play, williams should have been gone lone ago. This defense is the same as past defenses, sad, very sad. At least when vick was there we always had a chance. Leftwich, forget it.
By Money
October 16, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this
Let’s take a look at the Falcons remaining schedule:
7 @New Orleans 8 BYE 9 San Francisco 10 @Carolina 11 Tampa Bay 12 Indianapolis 13 @St. Louis 14 New Orleans 15 @Tampa Bay 16 @Arizona 17 Seattle
Why fight it, just start now making sure we lose out and try for the #1 pick. The only thing that could stop us is Miami, who looks worse than we do.
On a side note, how bad is the week 13 game @St. Louis going to be? It could be a matchup of two teams at a combined 1-23.
By A_Town_Down
October 16, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
Mr. Blank, I hope that you realize the PETA members nor racists (white and black) don’t buy tickets. I’m sure you realize that its hard to sell those club suites when your product sucks.
The essential ingredient to your product was Michael Vick. Unfortunately, you forgot that you were in the football business… not a public interest non profit organization. You backed down to 26 PETA protesters at Flowery Branch, 31 PETA protesters at NFL headquarters, racist around this nations, and men in cheap suits.
Mr Blank, I hope that you can learn from mistakes. But we still got love for you.
By A_Town_Down
October 16, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
Only about 30% of these posters have any credibility. If you even hint at the release of a Crumpler (pro-bowl TE) or a DeAngelo (pro-bowl CB), you start to sound crazy. Saying that they played a bad game is fair criticism.
If you state that Scott Case was “good” NFL defensive back, you should take one-way trip to Siberia.
By Naydean
October 16, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
Listen guys. I am a New Yorker who use to watch the Falcons because of MV7. Since he is no longer able to play due to his own doing don’t blame each other. Good people do bad things and Michael Vick is no exception. What he did was wrong but forgiveness is also a possibility. Arthur Blank and the entire Falcon organization is hurting, the fans are hurting and so is Michael Vick and his family.Stop tearing each other down because we can all learn from our mistakes.Keep the faith and anything is possible. What happens if Mike Vick is given probation instead of prison time then the Falcons will need to make the decision of what to do with Mike Vick. Michael Vick need prayer, love and understanding and you Southerners are other refer to as God loving fearing people. Remember you are all in it together so you all need to pull in the same direction. Don’t give up on the Falcons everything happens for a reason.
By Tommy
October 16, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
WHY?
Why isn’t Norwood getting more touches?
Why aren’t they using Ovie Mughelli more, considering he is one of the best blocking backs in the league and the Falcons could clearly use more pass protection and more blocking on runs?
Why is Michael Jenkins still on this team and why do they keep throwing to him?
WHY do I keep watching this train wreck?????
By h_charles
October 16, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this
First, you people supporting Harrington need to get a clue.
In Detroit, it was the team around him. Then in Miami, it wasn’t Harrington — must have been the team around him. Now its Atlanta, and people STILL think Harrington isn’t a problem. Wake up people. Harrignton is a HEAD CASE. Always has been. Put zero pressure on him, and like ANY NFL QB he can make plays. Once he is pressured, he loses composure. He loses mechanics. He panics. In the NFL pressure will come. Joey can’t adjust.
As to Norwood, he does need more touches. The reason he doesn’t get them, however, is that he cannot block. Teams will continue to blitz us, and until Norwood figures out at least how to slow down a linebacker, his plays will be limited.
At this point, it may just be time to roll with him, despite his poor blocking. We are getting sacked no matter who is in there, and at least Norwood gives us a shot at the endzone.
By Opinions are like
October 16, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this
We need nasties? What a brilliant insight! Oh by the way both Super Bowl teams last year were built on integrity with Godly coaches and our “nasty” is headed to prison.
By willdave
October 16, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this
I wish the NFL would allow the Falcons to forfeit the rest of their games this season. Just mark them down for a 1-15 season and send them all home. See who they can get from the draft and free agency during the off season. Then come back next year. Last night I finally couldn’t stomach any more of their ineptitude, which has characterized this franchise for most of their 42 seasons now. I saw the Birds recover a fumble deep in Giant territory when the score was still 14-10. I got a real bad feeling when the home team failed to get a first down in three tries. I already knew when Old Man Andersen trotted on the field that he would miss the field goal. The Falcons rely on his 47-year-old leg entirely too much in my opinion. So he was bound to miss. And he did. The Giants, unlike the Falcons, then capitalized on their momentum and marched the ball right down the field to score a quick touchdown, making the score 21-10. That’s when I turned away. Although it was still early in the game, I’d seen enough of this team over the years to know that they wouldn’t come back. Sure enough, the Falcons ended up not scoring another point the rest of the way but gave up ten more to the Giants en route to their fifth loss already this season. As embarrassing as that loss before a prime-time national audience was, just imagine how much worse Eli’s brother Peyton and the Colts will carve up these birds on Thanksgiving night. I just cannot stand to watch any more of this crap.
By j
October 16, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
OK. Vets shut your mouths and start to play. This team stinks and the attitudes of the players who were coddled for 2 years by a nanny can’t respond to a real coach who does not change their diaper every time they are whining. The COACH IS NOT THE PROBLEM! with time and draft picks, free agency and releasing some of the old wood we will get better.