Sports Columnists

By ttaylor

October 25, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

Dennis Dixon for QB!

By nole2816

October 25, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

That’s fine. All the players should shut up and listen to the coach. Quit your yelling and play football. Petrino knows what he is doing and any player that doesn’t like it then leave. I’m sick of loosing and I want to be proud to be a Falcons fan again.

By Peedie

October 25, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

Hmmm lets see….we pay your salary…we selected you Bobby P as the man to lead us….I have employees,(players), who don’t want to play MY system…or be part of my team….how do you say “outtahere” to Hall, Crumpler and the other complainers…whine somewhere else.

By mark

October 25, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

dennis dixon our next qb. d hall shut up and play ball. way to go bobby p.

By Jimmy Etheridge

October 25, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

Well put, Mark. They should trade Hall and Crumpler to Miami or St. Louis.

By Uncommon Wisdom

October 25, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Why not call this what it is, we’re competing with the Jets, Dolphins, and Rams for the top pick in next year’s draft. While we’re at it, why not trade D-Fall for Chad Johnson (Bengals need to upgraded their secondary badly) or another top 10 draft pick, then we get our pick(s) of the top QB, RB, or OT in the draft.

By Realist

October 25, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

This would all make more sense if Petrino had thus far demonstrated in any reasonable fashion that he can be a winning coach in the NFL.

By Falcons Fan

October 25, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Petrino is going to do business his way. The players should realize that and play hard, for the Falcons, or their future team. They are still getting paid to play, each day (practice, and games), that is what we as fans expect them to do. I want the Falcons to remain competitive each game, but I also know we need a quarterback, middle linebacker, safety, and offensive lineman. Winning is not in the best interest this year, and maybe not next, but three seasons from now, when Petrino has this team the way he wants, we will be good for years. Want example’s, look at the Eagles, Patriots, Colts, Steelers. They all play big boy football, and don’t have babies in thier system. I want to win now, but know that when you break your leg, you have to relearn how to walk, before you can run.

By MV7 fan

October 25, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

We don’t want Petrino at LSU!

Excuse me, LSU know how to play football. The record and the numbers speak for itself.

Les Miles know how to coach.(period)(the end)

Look to me the Falcons need LSU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Jerry

October 25, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Who are you kidding, Mark? Petrino’s already got his bus ticket out of town for as soon as the season’s over.

By AFnPC

October 25, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Way to go Mark. This is exactly what I’ve been screaming ever since the news broke on Grady. Petrino will make this his team, and it will be made up of team players. Superstars come and go, role players win championships. Vick was not a team player. After a bad series, we wouldn’t see him on the sidelines talking to his offense, he would mope around and then Knapp would sit next to him and go over coverages and defensive schemes. Imagine if that was what a Manning or Brady did after a bad series…They wouldn’t be the leaders of great teams. Petrino knows how to win and the fans need to have a little faith in him that he can do the same here. If after three years we still have the same record, with the same problems, then I’d expect to see him go, but until then I’m thinking we have a damn good head coach, with a great offensive system that just needs a qb with an idea of how to run this offense. It’s obvious that it takes a little time for a qb to learn a completely new offense, so give these guys the time, or just draft Brian Brohm, he already knows it.

By Wink from Lithonia

October 25, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Well, Well, Bobby P is the man for the Falcons. That would explain the missing owner this year, not very visible. McKay is was the one who brought Jackson in to play nose tackle. He made an immediate impact and has been a steady performer in all games he suited up for. So it was the genius coach from LSU who let him go.

Let’s discuss this genius, the kid you coached at LSU ( the 19 year old nose tackle not playing for Houston) at my last count had 5 sacks that was the Houston game we managed to win, but your #1 pick DE Jamaal Anderson has not sniffed a sack thru 6 games. You or McKay refused to pay Kearney to stay; but Jackson has to go.

Now we talk about how much Jackson weights, thought you liked your lineman big, but this guy man’s his position every Sunday, litterally man’s his. Is it his fault you can’t find a way to score inside the RED ZONE.

Bobby P is quite the genius, if he gave it some thought or did some research maybe Jackson could have help score some points in the RED ZONE, dude was a 1000 yard rusher in High School, line him up in the back field.

Vick may have done an idiot thing, but this coach or management knee jerk reaction to losing is STUPID AND LACK DIRECTION; letting Jackson go was a misguided action and the cancer remains; possibly upstairs!!

By TommyGator

October 25, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Hall’s mouth is a symptom of the Falcon’s dismal failure at team discipline under the former coaching staff. And, yes, Arthur Blank was also a major contributor to that mindset. If the move by the front office is (really) to put the bit in Petrino’s mouth and let him be the voice of the franchise, that is a good move. Whether he succeeds or falls flat, at least, it shows that the inmates are no longer in charge of the asylum.

Some players think “team” means “This is Entirely About ME.” Hall is the remaining ringleader of that crowd. Send him packing. Now.

By Socrates

October 25, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

D’Angelo Hall’s ability to run his mouth far exceeds his ability to play football. I seriously doubt that Petrino will be around next year, but whoever coaches the Falcons needs to put Hall on a bus to Miami. The aging Falcons are moving from the good old days of Jim Mora to a disciplined environment. There is sure to be whining, particularly from Hall who has lost his homeboy, Mora.

By Future Looks Bright

October 25, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

I agree with Uncommon Wisdom, Trade D-Fall for a top-10 pick, then draft Jake Long and Darren McFadden. With so many good QB’s available in next year’s draft, let Leftwich play and draft a QB high in the 2nd round, less pressure, less money, same talent

By KD

October 25, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Good coaches can win with their own guys or someone else’s guys. The team doesn’t have to be to Petrino’s liking for him to win. He hasn’t won because he’s a mediocre coach who thinks his college system will work in the pro’s.

There are only so many Bill Bellichick’s in this world, by that I mean guys that can create a system or culture of consistent success. So be careful when you give carte blanche’ to a guy to remake your team. We did that with Mora and look what it got us.

By SC_Bird

October 25, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

If you are going to cut Grady due to performance, then let’s be fair across the board…How many passes has Roddy White dropped? Keith Brooking hasn’t been the best performer either..The same goes for Dunn, Crumpler, Lewis Sanders…If you are going to be hard, be hard across the board..That’s why I respect Roger Goddell, he’s hard, but hard across the board.

Blank will regret ever hiring McKay or Petrino.

By drkvc

October 25, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

hall is the most overrated corner in the history of the nfl. please, please trade him — many other teams might bite (although if you look at their game plans, it is obvious that they will attach hall early and often). you could at least get a 7th round pick for him, which would be better than cutting him. trade deadline is looming…

By kim smith

October 25, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

By KRS What’s wrong with cutting ties with a 34 year old lineman. They’re is no future in him and we aint going to the playoffs anyway. Time to rebuild with fresh players. Add them to the good vets. we have. And build this thing the right way like Parcells did with Dallas. Get hustlers, hitters, team players and winners on this team, and they’re will be a future.And get some damn lineman on that offence.

By Tim

October 25, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Bobby Petrino is a JOKE !!! He releases the most productive D’lineman that we have and calls it a football decision? He is just another one of those guys that thinks that he is so much smarter that eveyone else. If he was really that smart, He would understand that empty backfields almost never work in the NFL. But since ” King Arthur” has given the keys to the castle to this clown, you are stuck with him. As for me I refuse to continue to be attached to a management team that is so willing to crap all over this team, and city. Before this season is over, every player that anyone wants to be connected with will be gone. ** Everyone except ” Five Yard Tackle” Brooking!!

By Joe

October 25, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

We should get Donavan McNabb in the offseason and Trade for Chad Johnson!

By SeminoleWarrior

October 25, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

As a lifelong Falcon fan, I am glad that the tide is beginning to turn. This team once had pride and put out a decent effort but I feel this year like the bagged Saints fans of years past. With the first four picks in the draft next year, we need to take QB Andre Woodson, LT Chris Williams, LT/RT John Greco, and FS Quintin Demps. Do not trade picks away and build the team through the draft. Our free agent acquisitions for the most part have been not effective as the big name need players have spent more time on IR than on the field it seems. Give Petrino time to get his players in place; the tide will turn in a few years and we will enjoy a run similar to that of the Braves in the ’90s.

By SC_Bird

October 25, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Kim,

The same goes for a 32 year old MLB that doesn’t know the difference between Reggie Bush and his own teammate….No future in him either, so let’s cut him too!

By Rod

October 25, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

D. Hall is a worthless corner.

He gets burned more than a crack-ho with a pack of matches. He can cover the #2, 3 or 4 receiver, but ALL of the top receivers burn him every time. Dump him.

My only question is why couldn’t we have traded Jackson before the deadline and gotten a pick or two out of it?

By NS from Kennesaw

October 25, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Yep - let the coach build his team and those who are not on board need to be on board or else just go play else where. By the way, trade them off for 1st (or early) round draft pick would be a great idea.

About - QB. don’t forget DJS. I don’t know what coach BP thinks about him but I think he is not bad.

By toni

October 25, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

I think yo’re right players like Hall they had to go. He is the most overrated corner in the NFL and most overpaid whit big mouth. He is lucky whit me as a coach he was gone long time ago.

By Wes

October 25, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Yeah, great moves in giving Ovie the biggest fullback contract in history and pushing to sign Byron Leftwich. Our running game sucks and Byron is out with another injury…we’re definitely on the up and up now!

By LontimeATLien

October 25, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

yeah, this is his team. 1-6. very impressive.

bottom line it was a dumb move by a guy who doesn’t seem to have the support oh his team - you know, the guys who are supposed to be out there playing for him? you think Dungy or Belichick has this kinda dissension? and it’s not ‘cause they’re ruling with this ‘iron fist/my way or the highway’ BS y’all are talking about. if that was the case then The TUna would still be in Dallas

it’s obvious they’re maing a youth movement. but the timing’s all wrong. doing it in the midseason DOES look like you’re quiting on the year.

as big as he is, he gets penetration. they’re gonna be soory.

it’s his team alright. big whup. making boneheaded decisions in the name of “this is MY team”…

By Brian Hunt

October 25, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Even with Jackson, Carolina thought so much of the Falcons run defense that they took their QB off the field and ran the ball over 10 straight times. How many teams have piled up huge rushing performances against the Falcons this year? The answer to that question proves that Jackson was not indispensable.

By tricky kid

October 25, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Somethimes things have to get worse before they can get better. I am not a Falcons fan, but have been watching this team from afar in Boston since the Vick debacle exploded. While everyone hates the Patriots outside of New England, if I have any advice to offer it is that cancers like Vick and Hall and Crumpler do nothing but hurt the team. They are cancers that eat awat at the fabric of building a good team with solid character players who are more interested in winning than in the ancillary benefits of celebrity and wealth.

By Marvin

October 25, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Booby P is a joke for a coach. I think it was a bad decision to bring this guy from a non major program. His decision making is poor and will cost the Falcons in the long run. Blank would having been better off bringing back June Jones and Jeff George to qb. There was too many talented coaches in the league already to bring in this idiot. These are not young college students away from home for the first time. These are professionals that afford people like him a job.

By Robb Maag

October 25, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

The inmates have for too long, run the Falcon asylum. If they must endure a rebuilding period, they might as well start from the turf up and assemble a team rather than a collection of whining ego-maniacs. If the Falcons have been paying attention, they will resolve to be Vick-tims no more.

By Andre

October 25, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

It hurts to be this bad but why aren’t the most vocal players screaming at M Vick, he destroyed the season from the start.

Yes, the Falcons depended on him way to much but he hung them out to dry with his off the field issues.

Be tough go to work and do what your boss says, if his is not a good coach he won’t last anyway.

By boots

October 25, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

In my humble opinion, the Falcons need a remake—- A FIVE YEAR PLAN —- if they’re going to become an upper tier team.

Now, in order to accomplish that, they need someone who can effectively evaluate talent. That’s the first priority, someone who can evaluate and procure young talent in the skilled positions. Petrino and his staff can develop the talent once they have it.

In the meantime, the key word is patience.

Get rid of those who are a drag on the salary cap and start from the ground up. I’m old, but plan to be around to see this accomplished.

I hope they have the insight and stones to make those hard decisions!

By longgone

October 25, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Finally, someone is in control in Flowery Branch. Grady Jackson was never in shape to play quality minutes. Petrino made a business decision just like Grady made a business decision last year when he decided to sue the team. BYE BYE big boy! Petrino was hired to win games,not to coddle a bunch of over paid whiners. Some veterans, such as Hall and Crumpler, are not performing on the field and are causing disruption in the locker room. Don’t be surprised if several more players are released or traded in the offseason for draft picks. For several years this has been a losing team. Petrino and his staff have the guts to make the necessary changes to bring a winner to Atlanta. It’s about time there is a take charge person in Flowery Branch.

By AndyW

October 25, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

I don’t know if Petrino will be a good NFL coach or not. One thing I do know is that the Falcons have perhaps the least amount of talent of any NFL team.

There is a reason he’s going for a youth movement. For the most part, the veterans on this team are on the downside of their careers. You have an aging defense, few OL who would start for any other team, average WRs, below average QBs. Take away Crumpler, D.Hall, Norwood and Mughelli and you’re looking at an XFL-level team.

Jury is out on Petrino, but we really cannot make a judgement until he’s got talent to coach.

By gary

October 25, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Please, I’m in Washington, D.C., and this in-house stuff going on with the FALCONS need to stay in the house, the wide receivers who supposedly needed a quarterback who could throw to them and give them chances are the ones who are making Joey and Byron look bad (dropping passes, doing the tip drill for the opposing defenses, and making a routine catch, a touch down for the other team); maybe Vick was right to run and run and run some more. And, we know that Crumpler was the only sure out for passing situations for Vick and the FALCONS and anyone with knowledge of the FALCONS know it also. I’m sorry VICK screwed up and cost the FALCONS and us fans such a painful start to the season, but, the team need to meet and encourage each other rather pointing fingers at each other and the Coach or Coaches and Ownership. And D-Hall, I understand even his anger at the release of veterans, the military do it everyday because the mission change, be professional and do your job while you have one (Craig Hodges).

By Orlando Rivera

October 25, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Thank you Seminole. It’s apparent that many of you forgot that the same thing happened when one Jimmy Johnson came over from Miami to coach the Cowboys. Everyone was upset at how he came in and immediately started weeding out the players who didn’t want to be there so they could rebuild for the future.

Personally, the whole Mora/Knapp/ Vick era was a joke and the Falcons were never going to be a serious threat. Vick was no leader by a long shot, and it’s time to cut ties with DHall and Crumpler as well, since they lost their drinking buddy and can’t handle a little discipline.

I like what Petrino is doing and I’m looking forward to when he is holding up the Lombardi Trophy.

By Charles

October 25, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

amen

Petrino, build your team and punt loud mouth and ungrateful thugs like Hall. The Falcons need leadership, Petrino is trying to apply it, and all those not in favor get the hell out of dodge.

By Hey Bradley

October 25, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

If what you say is true about a head coach jettisoning players to mold a team to fit his system, consolidating power, etc. The Falcons have been down that road once before. Remember? Dan Henning. How’d that one work out?

I agree with the earlier poster, who was paraphrasing Bear Bryant. A good coach can win with his players, or with yours.

By jack

October 25, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

I am impressed with most of the fans posting here. I am in the lot of fans who are for taking back control of the team and the players and dumping the loudmouths divisive chumps. Trade for picks, if you can or let those who know do what is “longterm” best for the team. Rotten apples truly do spoil the rest of the barrel. WAY TO GO PETRINO.

By TR

October 25, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

College Coach…..College moves… So Bobby Petrino knows what he is doing? What possible evidence do you see to support that theory? Once again we have an “Offensive” genius operating an Offense that is at it’s very best “Offensive” If you don’t like the words or actions of the veterans, that’s fine but don’t try to act like their an intelligent plan that is at work that those of us on the outside can’t comprehend. This “team” is in over their head and this is just the beginning……..

By ga_tech_92

October 25, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Clean house. Trade the whiners for draft picks. Make smart picks. Build for the future. It’s not an over night process. NO ONE SHOULD EXPECT WINS THIS YEAR. Jimmy Johnson…many other GREAT coaches went 1/15 the first year. You have to break a LOT of eggs to make a magnificent omelet. Do you think the Patriots would put up with whinny babies who cry the media and aren’t Team First guys? Hell no…there’s a reason…way to go Bobby P!!! Those of you who don’t like the Falcons now, just because your ‘boy’ is going to jail, you never were Falcons fans, you were THAT player’s fans………..drop your season tickets…there are plenty of us waiting in line to buy them. I’m not buying them on ebay either, I want them from the Falcons office, so I can renew them.

By vince

October 25, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

I am 72 years old. watched a lot of football. I laugh at these kids saying college coaches cant coach in the NFL. Where do you think the NFL coaches started. their not born to coach in the NFL, most started in high school went to college coaching. Unless your dad was a NFL coach. Like Wade Phillips.Good job Petrino and Zimmer.

By ga_tech_92

October 25, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

To those of you who say “why cut Jackson, he was getting tackles, you should have cut Brooking”. You are COMPLETELY missing the point. The point is…Petrino is not here to coddle these prim Dona’s, he is here to get rid of the whiners and keep the hard workers. Say what you want about Brooking, but the man brings his 110% effort EVERY moment and in practice. Jackson was regularly yelled at by the coaches for NOT doing what they demanded of him…and for loafing….so…yes Jackson got a lot of tackles and yes Brooking is run over sometimes………but right now this team needs an overhaul and it starts with attitude. You get rid of the complainers and keep the hard workers…at this point you draft well and create the consistent message that HARD WORK will keep your job and what everyone expects…whining and playing for stats is NOT ACCEPTABLE. Trade the whiners and stat guys for hard working draft picks…and on down the road (1-2-3-4 years) we might have a chance to be a meat and potatoes team like the Steelers, Patriots, etc…you don’t hear their guys whining or back talking the coaches do you? Coaches aren’t paid to be popular, that’s what Mora was, coaches are paid to kick peoples asses in line and demand consistency from all. It takes a lot of balls to stick to your beliefs in the face of loosing and whiny fans. I respect the hell out of Petrino for this alone. I can see what he is doing…and it’s no quick fix…either sell your tickets or get on board for the future.

By ga_tech_92

October 25, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

OH…and don’t EVER think they are going to trade Hall for 85……85 is a me-first prim Dona too. You are missing the point if you think that’s attractive.

By WLA

October 25, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again. Blank’s worst move was getting rid of Dan Reeves.

By Edgar

October 25, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Nice move. I’ll be there for every game now. Win or lose I like a coach that takes it as serious as he does. I had a few doubts until now. We’ll be back soon. Way to go Bobby.

By jack

October 25, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

The day Arthur gave Vick the “Blank Check” and then rolled him around in the wheel chair,(a move I am sure he regrets) the team began its downwards spiral, from the attitude standpoint. As Vicks popularity grew, jealously grew faster and the team began to divide. It will not get healed until the players look up and see that someone is truly in charge….And that someone appears to be Petrino. Arthur staying in the background shows his wisdom in assining the responsiblity to his mgr. and then having the b_ _ _ _ to let him do the job. I do not like to lose either, but We All should know, this has to be done for future success.

By Dee

October 25, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Petrino is the type of no-nonsense coach the Falcons have needed for a looooong time. No more kissing the players behinds in order to get them to perform. Bring in younger players that can follow orders and execute and, most importantly, that can keep their mouths shut!

By The Realist

October 25, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Does anyone around here care about winning…or are you okay with another season of “rebuilding?” I was born & raised here & CANNOT TAKE ANOTHER REBUILDING SEASON FROM ANY ATL TEAM! I mean, we had Mora, who instilled his system & it didn’t work so McKay blew it up. Now Petrino gets his chance to install a new system & after a couple of losing seasons, McKay will blow it up too. Then we’ll start all over & people will STILL be saying, “Well, it’s a new coach. Give him a chance to bring in his players & give them a chance to learn the system.” It’s a cycle! How can we win NOW?! Oh yeah, by dumping our defensive line’s lead tackler!!!

By A_Town_Down

October 25, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Bobby can do whatever he wants. If he doesn’t show some real prospects building a winning organization real soon. The cheers in the dome will become more hollow and distant. Arthur’s new suites will remain empty. Eventually, the writing will be on the wall and Bobby Petrino will be back in college coaching.

Mr. Bradley paints Petrino as a guy taking control of this organization. Yes, McKay and Blank have nearly disappeared this season, BUT Petrino has consistently made decision and taken actions without bringing to the team before he takes it to the media.

To me, this shows a lack of respect for his “adult” veteran players and a lack of courage in general. He has just about lost the lockeroom.

Because of Blank’s lack of backbone and foresight, we have thrown our franchise QB to the wolves so we already have to find another QB. We have D. Hall, Boley, McClure, Roddy White, Michael Jenkins, Babineux, and DMo in or coming up on contract years. Thus, it is important for Petrino to maintain the lockeroom. Otherwise, we could lose the entire nucleus of our team in two years.

With that said, Mr. Bradley can pat Petrino on the back all he wants because he and the rest of the AJC staff will be the first to barbecue Petrino if he doen’t amass some positive results (not wins just some hope) SOON.

So Mark Bradley is just basting this turkey for the hot coals.

By Jim P.

October 25, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I say we fire Bobby and pray for some Marty-ball! (If we can get him out of the Hawiian Islands!

LETS GET MARTY!!!

By Bob

October 25, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Deangelo Hall—-what a mouth on such an immature,uneducated,me-first jerk. If he werent a ggod athlete, he couldnt keep a job flippin burgers.

By D Ellis

October 25, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

THE WORST MOVE EVER WAS GETTING RID OF DAN REEVES AND BLANK BOUGHT THAT BULL CRAP OFFENSE MORE AND KNAPP WHERE PEDDLING AROUND THE LEAGUE TRYING TO SALE…AND WHAM THEY FOUND A SUCKER IN BLANK TO BUY THAT CRAP…It is about time they gut this team…welcome to the basement for a few years. Everything has to start from scratch for Bobby P. That means totally dismantling this team except for a few key pieces. I would trade HAll to a team desperate for a corner for a late first rounder or early second rounder…that would give us either 2 first rounders…1 obviously in the top 5….and another late first rounder maybe 23-30…or a high second to go along with the other 2 second rounders we have this year. Even with 1 first rounder and 3 second rounders you can add 4 quality players to your club with the frist 64 picks.

It is a good thing this team is going to get gutted. I have read in several publications that this teams locker room and attitude is full of me first players…and If I remember a source was quoted in ESPN in the football preview that the entire attitude was terrible and no one would want to coach that team much less win with them.

It started with Grady and it will continue with Hall being dealt on draft day or right before…he does have value…so we should take that value and bring in someone else.

Falcons fans have to decide….are you in this for the long haul…or are you year to year..this rebulding process is going to take 2/3 years.

Our team and our management are making serious roster moves and this was the first one to be made. Can you say cut Grady Jackson….and Draft Glen Dorsey!!!! I CAN SMELL IT…..Jump on or jump off…but get with Bobby P cause he ain’t going any where.

By A_Town_Down

October 25, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Rebuilding is a term that should be used only by the Steelers, Patriots, Ravens, Packers, and Bears. There are about a third of NFL teams the are ALWAYS rebuilding. Guess what my friends the Falcons are included. Unless you have excellent scouting and player evaluation, rebuilding is just a myth. If you don’t have excellent scouting and player evaluation, you have to hope that you draft a Franchise QB.

My friends there only about 4 franchise QBs calibre produced every ten years… just do the research and see for yourself. Since 1997, there has only been Vick, Brees, Big Ben, and Palmer. Honestly, none of these guys compare to Manning or Brady yet.

So my friends, even if you “luck-up” on a franchise QB… it will take another 5 to 10 years for the guy to payoff.

I’m not drinking this rebuilding Kool-Aid. Resign our core talent, D-Hall included. Bring Vick back or get McNabb or get another proven playoff QB and let’s win next year. Otherwise, the ticket and NFL-ticket money stays in the bank.

By HAHAHA

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

No matter what, they’re stillgonna stink!!! Petrino can’t turn it around, just like the others. He’ll be here for a minute, and then he’ll be gone too!!!!!!!! Maybe Atlanta should scrap the franchise altogether!!!!!!!! Yep, that’s it!!

By Chris

October 25, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

I really like this Petrino guy. He hits DHall for $100,000, fires an out-of-shape employee who sued his employer, and doesn’t discuss team matters through the media.

If one of my co-workers were fired, I wouldn’t expect my boss to gather up the office and explain to everyone what happened. You want to know what happened, ask the dude that got canned. If he doesn’t give you an honest answer, he didn’t need to be on the team in the first place.

No rides in Lamborghinis. No hugging your players and bumping chests after a good play. Just football, X’s and O’s. Great guy for this team. Right mindset to lead this organization. Finally, some discipline in Flowery Branch.

By Danny

October 25, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Sounds great, Mark, but what quality free agent is going to want to play for this team? Moreover, the salary cap problems will make it very difficult to bring in good players (even if the arbiter’s decision stands, there’s no way MV7 has $19M to return to the Falcons).

The comparisons to Jimmy Johnson and Bill Belichick are absurd. Sure, they both had losing records their first year as head coaches, but I don’t remember either one of them being screamed at by players on the sideline and/or derided by thier players in the media. Can any of you point to any coach that has overcome such circumstances?

This team is going to be bad for quite some time. If I were a free agent, I’d look elsewhere.

By Bo

October 25, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Another great job Mark. I’ve been saying it for weeks that Petrino is the Coach and if Hall and Alga don’t like it get the he#$ out of Dodge. There alot on players that would love to take their place. Maybe, Blank and McKay going to let a football man do his thing…it can’t get any worse. You go Patrino, More power to you.

By A_Town_Down

October 25, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Bob, please excuse D-Hall for having an opinion and expressing his honest, logical, honest, and articulate reaction. We live in America. D-Hall sacrifices body in a very violent game. Thus, he has every right to express himself.

If you disagree with DeAngelo, attack his arguement. If you disagree with how DeAngelo expresses himself at times, state that. But if you disagree with DHall having the freedom to express himself, you need to check yourself.

I disagree with Bradley’s assessment of this situation so I attacked several of his assertions and discussed why they had NO merit to the ultimate goal…WINNING.

By 2centsworth

October 25, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

It seems that since the late 60’s the Falcons were only a trade or a draft pick or a coaching change away from success. I always thought the failures were due to the Smith family ownership and their refusal to PAY for and KEEP top notch talent. I’ve seen a lot of players leave the Falcons and earn Super Bowl rings with other teams. When Mr. Blank bought the team it looked like it was his intention to have a winning team. Hopefully, Mr. Blank won’t blow his whole payroll on one player again. I’m not a football expert so I hope you experts out there will start offering suggested replacements for Rich McKay. Let him and the coach (whoever that may be) pick that one trade or draft pick or coach change away from a Falcon success. Like ‘boots’, I’m getting old. Please hurry!

By bk hawk

October 25, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Petrino’s Team? Its about Time. Givem %ell Coach.

By Brian O'Brien

October 25, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

I really don’t want to be in the position of defending some of the current malcontents on the Falcons roster. However, as has been stated by others, a good coach can win with your players or with theirs, and I have to wonder what Petrino will do if the next generation of Falcons players don’t result in a winning record? Sooner or later the responsibilty for a team’s success has to fall on the shoulders of the coaching staff. This is not the college game where you can revoke a kid’s scholarship. This is pro football, and a coach needs to be able to manage different personalities in addition to the X’s and O’s, that’s just the reality of pro football, and frankly any other management job. I’m not yet convinced Petrino is equipped to make the jump from the college ranks to the pros, and it may be a bit early to give him carte blanche to mold the franchise to suit his particular vision.

By Tim

October 25, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

It is crazy to think that Petrino is looking for guys that are all about buying into his system! To say that this is about getting rid of “me” guys is just as crazy. Bobby P. is the biggest me guy in town! My team, My players, My system. Me, Me, Me, My,My,My. If you want to build around your system, Then MAN UP! Come out and say that this is what you are doing. Don’t hide behind a lie and say it was footbal related. Everyone can respect you more if you just say what it is you are doing and jerk the fans around. If this is what you wanted to do, you should have started in the offseason.

By THE TRUTH

October 25, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Marc Bradley your feeble attempt of kissing Petrino”s ss is sickning. You lost all credability as a serious sports reporter with this article. Petrinos recent antics further proves he’s only a college coach. Because he’s making college level decisions. But yet and still you’re enjoying a buffet of a meal on Petrino’s *ss. Petrino has not proven one damn thing to me or nobody else that he deserves to be the HEAD coach of any NFL football team. How do you cut the second most productive defensive player on the team IN THE MIDDLE OF AN AWFUL SEASON !! Now let’s sit back and watch other teams running backs go through the inside of the line like it’s Ga. 400 Until recently i have given Petrino the benefit of the doubt considering the cluster**k he inherited. But the crap he’s doing now is of his own doing. Petrino has no place in the NFL, not even as an asst. coach. I know coaches in the arena league that would be a better Head coach than Petrino. You will noticed that I haven’t addressed Petrino as Coach Petrino not one time during this entire posting. That’s because he’s not a coach. A coach has the ability to teach, motivate, and enspire his team to perform under any circumstance. Mr. Blank, you owe us season ticket holders a better coach than the one you’ve let “Richie” Rich McCay trick you into hiring. Get rid of McCay, hire a GM that’s capable of turning this capsized ship of a team around. Rich McCay is not capable of doing the job. Listen to us Mr. Blank, the season ticket holders, we will not tolerate the mess that is the Atlanta Falcons.

By josh

October 25, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

D-Hall And wish he was krunker crumpler are just mad b/c their buddy is gone. It’s a pal thing more than anything. go cry on each other’s shoulders whiners or go play football

By T.C

October 25, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

well the dome will be empty again and the visiting crowd will cheer louder.get ready fowlks….

By TROTTINGHOMETUDD

October 25, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

D. Reeves had his time, now gone, won’t be back.

Petrino will be a WINNER, not a WHINNER.

WE will draft a QB and a safety.

Petrino will not be going back to college coaching.

Falcon’s will not let all you armchair QB’s dictate how the team will progress.

Petrino will challenge New England in two years.

M. VICK is history as far as playing as a FALCON.

Petrino will never satisfy the chronic, ignorant and whinning bloggers, but he will make you sit quietly in your own SHET and STEW for the next 8 or 9 years. LOL

This franchise will become an ELITE member of the NFL.

B. Petrino will be in the NFL HALL of FAME for a good reason.

By Chris

October 25, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

Yes, Tim, Petrino should only care about himself. He’s the boss. You don’t like it, he’ll find someone else to do your job for you. Period. Have fun somewhere else.

By Space Mountain

October 25, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

I think shaking things up is just what the doctor ordered. If Petrino is committed to the Falcons, then he needs to implement that players that he feels are the best he has. If Grady wasnt getting it done in the coaches eye then hes gone. But the Falcons are now realizing that the head coach calls the shots not the players, the gm, or the owner. It takes a helluva lot of sand to make that call right now and I respect that. Good luck coach. Get rid of all the dead weight on this team. And get some dedicated, team oriented, motivated, winners on this team. Players who are proud to wear the Falcon uniform and will stop at nothing to win the Super Bowl. Field a team so fierce that when the opposing team sees the Falcons on the other side of the field they are going to think to themselve ” we are in for a long day”.

By kick start

October 25, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Petrino please slap Hall with another fine and trade his VT butt to someone else for draft pick. Time someone stops the Bulls*H#T.

By Cincy Falcon

October 25, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Come’on guys did you really expect this season to be a good one? Petrino is in this for the long haul and his moves supports that. Don’t be surprised to see more “youth” movements coming as he turns this team into “his”. While the jury may be out on his ability to coach in the NFL, I most certainly appreciate the way he’s handled himself too date. I do believe this team will be a force in a couple years!

Go Falcons!

By OpinionsAreLike

October 25, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Good to see a house cleaning! Bobby may not be the answer, no one knows yet, no, not even you! However he will be here next year and time will tell if he can get it done. Remember the Saints last year? They totally cleaned house the year before and had a respectable season. What we have not is not working so get em out!

By gdawgfan

October 25, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Imagine,,, D Hall complaining! Well so what? What has D Hall done lately other than be a selfish idoit and lose a game to Carolina. I like what Petrino is doing. Get the players in who want to be apart of your system and kick the rest of them out! Crumpler, D Hall and anyone else not willing to get with the program should leave and stop complaining, especially after those hefty checks are deposited into thier accounts. It’s something about those V Tech players that makes me wonder what kind of program beamer is running there. D Hall is conceited and selfish and in my opinion an overratted corner back. Look at the games against the good receivers, they burn him all the time P Burress b*** slapped D Hall all over the place on Nation tv. So welcome in Matt Ryan with the second pick, get rid of hall and crumpler for some draft picks, say thanks but no thanks to dunn, draft choice from gtech to fill that position. Draft some LB from Ohio State, they always seem to turn out good. Get some solid offensive lineman and defensive lineman in the draft. We will be fine in 2 years maybe even next year.

By Chris

October 25, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Man, I thought hi-def on a 60-inch was going to be awesome. Then I saw the back of Grady’s legs jiggling and bouncing around in all their hideous glory.

So there, my friends, is your argument when people ask why you haven’t yet upgraded your entertainment system. Blame it all on Gravy. I mean, Grady.

By Soryu

October 25, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

The best thing would be if at the end Petrino was fired at the end of the season followed by the Falcons being sold to some interest in say LA or Yellowknife or Medicine Hat who would move them there. And then maybe at some point in the future Atlanta could get a real NFL franchise instead of the semi-pro team and college coach they have now.

Going to be a long dark season and the same after that and after that.

Petrino will quit sooner or later and limp back to the college ranks and the Falcons will pick another loser as head coach and the cycle will begin anew—kinda like the Phoenix. Maybe you should change your name to that—the Atlanta Phoenix—it rises and then crashes and burns, only to rise and crash and burn again.

By 2centsworth

October 25, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Maybe if they change those black jerseys and helments that came in under - oh, motorcycle/Elvis coach (where is he? college?) and went back to red. I liked red better.

Maybe bring in Steve Bartkowski as qb coach. He was always fun to watch.

Where is the Gritz Blitz?

Oh…the humanity! Flames like the Hindenburg.

By Tim

October 25, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Hey Chris, What are you thinking? The game is won and lost with the players! Don’t beleive me, Ask the coach in New England how well he did in Clevland. Ask Parcells how he did with the Jets.Players make coaches it is NEVER the other way around!

By Jim P.

October 25, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

If we are going to rebuild, let rebuild with Marty S.! Its Marty-ball time!!!

By LeeB

October 25, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Message to Falcons fans. You have a very bad team and it will take several years and players to improve. Got it?

By oldschool

October 25, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Falcon Battle Cry “Wait ‘til next year”

By Ron Devine

October 25, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

I’m going to end this discussion if if Petrino is the man for the job right here with two words. Any discusion beyond them is just so much hot air.

Matt Prater

By bebann

October 25, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Petrino appears to not have a clue as to what he is doing. What worked in college (Spurrier; Sabin) is not working in the NFL. His personnel decisions and communication skills seem to show a coach that is in way over his head.

Offensive genius; you’ve got to be kidding. Offensive could be a description of a coach that instead of using the talents of the players he has available to get the most out of them, rams down their throat a system that is counter productive to the program and their abilities.

In 2 years Petrino won’t be a Johnson or Belichick but will instead be back coaching college where he belongs.

By Jazzy J

October 25, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

I’m always amazed at you guys who purport to be lovers of democracy but turn around and want to silence any form of vocal dissent when it comes to professional athletes. Excuse me, they live in America too and just like you, when they are completely disgusted at the direction that their company or organization is headed, right or wrong, they have a right to voice their displeasure. Does freedom of speech and democracy not allowed because a person is paid millions of dollars to play sports.

By Georga Blanda

October 25, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Matt Prater. Yeah that move was a winner. And that reminds me of a fact I did not know until Rob Bironas set the new record for field goals in a game … the previous record was held by Billy Cundiff.

Yeah, that Me-trino guy’s a real smart one.

By Chris

October 25, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Well, Tim, if that’s the case, why did the Cowboys go from a 5-win team in 2002 to 10 wins in 2003 when Parcells arrived in town? They had essentially the same team; you telling me Parcells made no difference?

Tampa Bay wins a Super Bowl the year Jon Gruden shows up. They were a 9-win team the previous year. Jon Gruden had nothing to do with it?

If coaches didn’t make a difference, genius, then why are you and I not coaching in the NFL?

By Chris

October 25, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

You have to have players that fit your system. Would Warrick Dunn have done anything in Pittsburgh? No, because they are a power-running team.

Petrino’s offense requires a big back and big guys up front to block. His offense won’t work with undersized RBs and OL. He has to get his type of players in here to run his offense.

That’s why the 49ers were so great in the 80s. Montana didn’t have a great arm, Rice didn’t burn people with his speed, but they fit very well into the West-Coast offense that Bill Walsh was running. 2 other players would not have had the success those guys did.

A coach has a system. A system needs the right bodies, or it’s not a system, just a philosophy. This will be fixed in the upcoming drafts and via free agency.

Cincinnati was once the laughingstock of the NFL (and may be again this year). San Diego as well. But they turned things around by getting the right bodies in the right places at the right times. This can be fixed. It’s not all doom-and-gloom.

By Scott

October 25, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Issue 1: This team has been in a slow decline for 3+ yrs because of soft coaches/no discipline. Petrino is right on target with his actions. This team is 1-6 and going nowhere - NOBODY’s job is guaranteed! The only reason they managed to win 8 and 7 games the last 2 yrs is because of Vick’s athletic ability - just masked how poor the OLine was/is. GOTTA REBUILD THE TEAM, STARTING NOW. Issue 2: Falcons were carrying one add’l DLineman spot waiting on Rod C to heal - now one is expendable…why do you think Grady was fired: overweight, lazy in practice, took plays off during games, bad attitude, too expensive for productivity, getting old, AND…HE SUED THE TEAM!!! Issue 3: D Hall wants out, and he is just positioning himself for a trade. Falcons should comply before next draft: DHall should bring a first-rounder in return, and his attitude is a cancer. I like Crumpler, but he’s yapping too much this year, is overweight, has bad knees (gee, do you think carrying extra lbs. might contribute to that?). Alge might bring good return in an off-season trade as well. Remember, we’re rebuilding - nobody is untouchable. Issue 4: Norwood needs to get 20 to 25 touches per game going forward - we need to find out if he’s an every-down back. If so, we don’t need to draft McFadden or Hart. Issue 5: give the ball occasionally to Ovie…why did we pay so much to a blocker? They could’ve moved Blakely into the backfield at fullback if you’re not going to utilize your fullback for short-yardage situations. Issue 5: Falcons will have a top 3 pick next draft…do they get their franchise QB (Brohm, Ryan, Woodson, Ainge…?) who will not be productive for a couple of years? OR draft a franchise, pro-bowl caliber left tackle (if available)…gotta fix the OLine first. Remember how far Brady Quinn dropped in last year’s draft: teams did not NEED to draft QB’s, so Falcons can wait and still pick up a great QB later in the first round or even 2nd. OR, consider that Derek Anderson of the Browns will likely be available…options do exist. Harrington will likely stay as the back-up (that was his intention when he came here, and also to Miami) once the new QB is ready to go. Finally: draft/free agent needs for the Falcons: OLine, big running back, OLine, DBacks (especially safety…by the way what is wrong with Jimmy Williams - what a bust!), kicker, and, oh yeah…OLINE!!!

By Chris

October 25, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Jazzy J, we don’t live in a “democracy.” We live in a Constitutional Republic.

“Democracy” can be best put as “Mob rule.” Well, I don’t like mob rule. The mob is often wrong and/or unintelligent.

Yes, it’s America, and you can say whatever you like so long as you don’t infringe upon the rights of another. But in America, we have this crazy thing called “free enterprise.” There are 2 different groups at work here: employers and employees.

Now, if you blasted your boss in the media, you would probably be considered subordinate and would summarily be relieved of your position. This isn’t DeAngelo’s team. He is merely a hired hand.

So, yeah, say whatever you want. But you’ll end up looking foolish and may run yourself out of town. Open mouth, insert foot.

By jon

October 25, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Wink from Lavonia…Petrino coached at LOUISVILLE (U of L)not LSU. Moron. Grady Jackson…Individual play is fine, but the truly great team players make those around them much better. As I understand it, you did not hustle or show leadership in practice, why should we have expected it in games? What you have accomplished is due to the fact that you are 350lbs, not because of good technique or innate sense of how to play the position. You are “good” but you are not GREAT! You have the ability to be great right now but, at 35, how long were we supposed to wait. Go ahead, stay in the division. We will know exactly how to block you. We will know your work ethic. We will know your character. File a complaint against another team for stating the obvious…you are a myocardial infarction (no that is not a football term) waiting to happen.

By alcoholic

October 25, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

wink! Your an idiot

By Football Fanatic

October 25, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Looks like with Petrino it’s going to be my way or the highway which is how it should be. All the players who have been (running) the team under Mora had better pack their bags! Build us a moraly sound great team Petrino!

By Chris

October 25, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Well said, Scott. I agree on nearly every point you made. I would, however, draft a franchise QB if possible. I must admit, after being at Bobby Dodd and watching Ryan rip my Jackets, I have developed somewhat of a man-crush for him. Dude’s the truth.

By Supe

October 25, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Give Coach P time. It is painfully obvious that Arthur Blank and Rich McKay couldn’t pick out a ripe apple in a trash dump. Couple of years, clean house, regroup, back him up and give him time. I have a feeling Coach P is here for a long, long time.

By To Chris

October 25, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Everything you describe Bobby Petrino needing to do is exactly what Dan Henning did. His reign was the worst in Falcons history in my opinion.

The following example is college. Brian Van Gorder goes to Georgia Southern and tries to put the triple option players in his pro style offense. Result 3-8 and he bails to join the Falcons. Chris Hatcher takes Van Gorder’s old job and he has a system, high-powered passing game. He still has triple option players, so he adjusts, for now, and the team has rushed for 300, 400, 500 yards in games and is 5-2. One guy, considered a good coach, tries to put square pegs in round holes and loses. Another guy, also considered a good coach looks at what he’s got and designs a offense he can win with until he gets the players for his system. Who’s the better coach? In my opinion its the one who adjusts to the personnel he has.

By Soryu

October 25, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Tim:

What are you talking about?

Parcells made the AFC Championship with the Jets and 12-4 and yes he went 8-8 the next year and was out of the playoffs but when your starting QB blows out his achilles tendon in the opening game, 8-8 isn’t that bad.

Think the current head of the burning birds is going to go 8-8? Just have to go 7-2 is all.

By Ron Devine

October 25, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

This season and the next game comes first, not implementing a system in hopes of winning later. Good coaches win with what they have until they get what they want. The rest of you are just apologists for poor coaching.

By Supe

October 25, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Give Coach P time. It is painfully obvious that Arthur Blank and Rich McKay couldn’t pick out a ripe apple in a trash dump. Couple of years, clean house, regroup, back him up and give him time. I have a feeling Coach P is here for a long, long time.

By shane

October 25, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

“So it was the genius coach from LSU who let him go.”

PETRINO is his name and he came from LOUISVILLE.

I can not read this anymore you are making my head hurt. Making statments without knowledge is the definition of stupidity.

By Nolan School

October 25, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

DeAngelo Hall and Bobby Petrino. One will still be playing in the NFL while the other guy will be lucky to be coaching the offense for the Tusculum Pioneers.

Petrino may or may not have lost the locker room, but the fans are beginning to develop a pathological hatred for ol’ Louisville Bob. I just wish he’d quit picking his nose every time the camera goes tight on him.

What a POS.

By Manny

October 25, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Yep, it’ll be Petrino’s team. The problem is that no one will want to play for him.

And Crumpler and D. Hall will go somewhere and win their Super Bowl rings, and we’ll be left with a group of young players and an O-line that will be under development for at least another 5 years.

Didn’t we play this song earlier? Remember when Dan Reeves and the front office let go a bunch of veterans? Remember how bad the team played? Oh, and remember that it took a draft pick by the name of Michael Vick to put butts back in the seats?

Where’s the next Micheal Vick playing football right now in college? Where’s that next exciting player that people can latch their hopes around?

The reasoning behind this whole column is flawed, because when Alge Crumpler and Warrick Dunn starts to question your thinking, no veteran will play for you.

Think about it: Alge Crumpler. The poster boy for what Roger Goodell is looking for in an NFL player. Crumpler- you know, the guy that just entertained the troops in Iraq.

Oh, and Warrick Dunn. The guy who gives away a house to single moms. And fundraises. And took folks into his own house during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

THESE are the guys questioning the coach! That’s a problem. A huge problem!

By Chris

October 25, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

OK, if coaching doesn’t make a difference, why has Lousiville already lost 4 games with almost the same team that lost only 1 game for Petrino a year ago? Coaching doesn’t matter, right? Riiiiiiight…….

By Chris

October 25, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Bobby Petrino is the boss; the players are his employees. I don’t like my boss. In fact, he’s a prick. But when he tells me to do something, I have a choice to make. Either a) I do what he says and I keep my job or b) I don’t do what he tells me to do and I get fired.

DeAngelo Hall said that last year was all about him. He said it was all about making the Pro Bowl, and said he was coming into this season focused and ready to help the team. Blasting the coach in the media? Yeah, that’s really helping the team there, genius.

Problem is, everybody on this team was buddy-buddy with the last coach. Everything was fun. Now, it’s work. Well, guess what? It’s your job. This is your boss, deal with him and play his game, and eventually, you will win. This team has lacked discipline for so long that they don’t know how to deal with it when it’s presented to them. Let half the team go. I’d rather have character guys on my team than a bunch of “me’s.”

By ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

October 25, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

I have been a football fan for years and I have seen division in a locker room, but never with such a disregard and lack of respect for their coach. These “professionals” need to accept there is new leadership and go out and do the job that they get paid millions to do. The nature of the gmae that these men have the privilege of playing has an expiration date, and in most cases before the time that most want to accept. This is a business and the smart thing to do, since this season is obviously a wash, would be to cultivate the young talent and allow the veterans to mentor these young players (just as they were, when they entered into the league and took someone elses’s place). This business is not measured on ability alone, but whether a younger guy with more longevity and a smaller pay check can do the same job as a veteran making ridiculous money and fewer years left to play. I am a woman and I understand that. We have all been the victims of a change of administation or new management and as a professional, one deals with it. It is very sad that these men will enter the “real world”soon with no grasp of reality. Coach Petrino has a lot on his plate…more than any new boss should have to come in and clean up upon entering a new position, but he has handled it like a professional. He has made smart decisions for the future of this organization. The three ring circus that surrounded the disappointment of Michael Vick and the embarassment to this organization has been the subject of much debate, but this team wasn’t a winning organization with Michael Vick in the pocket. The problem with this team is they do not want to accept change and are acting like spoiled brats who are used to getting their way. The comment was made that they are not being treated like “men”, but men suck it up and do their job and don’t utilize an outside forum to discuss issues in management that should be handled in house. This is a sad situation and even worse because the youngest of football fans see such behavior as the way one handles adversity and are watching their heros (Michael Vick and other falcons make poor decision on several levels)and the three ring circus that adults create around such issues… (1) Michael Vick was arrested, charged, and indicted on federal charges because he BROKE THE LAW (not because he is black.) (2) Michael Vick let children, fans, Mr. Blank, and his teammates down because he only thought of himself. (3) Bill Belichick did not get a more severe punishment from the commisioner than Michael Vick because he did not break the law, but broke a NFL rule. (not because he is white) (4) Dog-fighting is illegal because it is barbaric, and if you disagree then write your senators and vote. (5) The veterans on the falcons and every other professional sport are getting phased out becuase their time is just about up and it is the nature of this business. (6) Coach Petrino calls the shots because this is his team. (7) Rich McKay is in place because he can balance the business aspect and protect the interest of the owner, as well as create a winning team as he did in Tampa. (8) Arthur Blank micromanages his investment because it is his money!!!!! (9) THE PROBLEM IS THIS TEAM LACKS LEADERSHIP, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND HUMILITY.

LIFE IS LARGER THAN FOOTBALL!!!!

By SC_Bird

October 25, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Chris,

Funny you said you wouldn’t want a bunch of me’s on your team. I guess you would want Farve, huh? A guy who is way past his prime and should of been out of the league 4 years ago, but stays to break a record. If you don’t believe me, just watch and see if he doesn’t retire after this season. Yet, he’s a hero and Hall is such a menace. Funny who some of you see what you want to see.

By Que

October 25, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

You guys no nothing about football. The coach hasnt proved anything at the Pro level. College coaches do not make outstanding Pro coaches. Just ask head ball coach who’s at South Carolina. This organiztion is doomed for years

By Dannotdan

October 25, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Mark

If you think that Petrino is here for the long haul our owner is more useless than I give him credit for and frankly I doubt that is possible.

He will never make it to the end of three seasons and I would not be surprised if he does not makes it beyond a second season. The Michigan’s, LSU’s and Auburn’s all have better coaches now and can all do much better than Petrino if they do make a change.

Everyone knows that Blank is all about star building to fill seats. winning is not only optional here it is not a very high priority. Mora and Petrino were hand picked to be sideline puppets for Blank and Atlanta is the only place either would be allowed to front a NFL franchise.

Look for a long time NFL coordinator to assume the pole of Puppet III and for Petrino to find his way back to Conferance USA where he belongs.

By Chris

October 25, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Brett Favre completes 65% of his passes and has a 1.5-1 TD-INT ratio. He is the ONLY reason the Packers are winning. He’s also not disruptive in the locker room; the team rallies AROUND him, not IN SPITE of him.

Nice try. Next, please.

By lamac66

October 25, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

TO CHRIS, yes coaching does make a difference. That’s why your best playmaker, Norewood can’t even carry the ball more than an average 6x per game.

That’s idiotic to me.

By Tommy Maddox

October 25, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Petrino is the boss. Let’s let him be the boss.

As for D-Hall, it is obvious that he watches his mouth about as well as he watches opposing receivers.

By Dannotdan

October 25, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Enough is Enough

I agree with the spirit of what you say but Petrino is the new “Coach”, not the new “Leader” there is absolutely no leadership with the Falcons.

You have a systemic problem, the players are sulking children, the coaches are fine for low D-1 programs but no way ready for the NFL, and the owner is an overbearing joke.

By SC_Bird

October 25, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

He’s the main reason they are winning so far this year. What has he or the Packers done in the past couple years?

By The Grinch

October 25, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Have all of you calling for Norwood to be an every-down back noticed that every time he even comes in contact with a defender’s outstretched arm he flies backward as if shot? Yeah, he’s over 200 pounds but he’s high cut. He’s even less of a power back than Dunn, who can at least get low and push. Norwood’s an explosive change of pace back, nothing more. Petrino knows exactly what he’s doing and when he trades or cuts the dead weight around here and assembles a team capable of running his offense we’ll finally have winning football in Atlanta. Thank god Blank doesn’t listen to half you idiots; he learned from Mora and Vick to shut up and let someone who knows what they’re doing run the show.

By kentucky jefferson

October 25, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Sometimes I wonder about football fan’s memories. Petrino took U of L to the Orange Bowl last year and won and finished with a 12-1 record. This year U of L is 4-4 without him. He instilled TEAM into the players so much that Bohmn stayed with his teammates instead of going for sure NFL$$$. Atlanta fans need to just wait for the pieces to fall into place because Coach Petrino will get the job done. As a U of L, Kentucky, and Steelers fan, I have seen good and bad coaches come and go, but TEAM first is the only way to go in the long run. I joined the Falcons’ bandwagon this year because the long road Coach Petrino is on will led to the playoffs for many years to come. Join me on the wagon because it has left and the past behind us, and the bandwagon is headed to winning seasonS, and not with not whinning players holding the wagon back.

By Sirius Black

October 25, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

OH HELL YES!! ROCK ON COACH PETRINO!! SO LONG BIG STUPE HALL AND ANY OTHER STUPE HALL SUPPORTERS. LET THEM DO YET ANOTHER REMAKE OF THE LONGEST YARD WITH VICK. EM

By ScoobySnacks

October 25, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

can anyone tell me exactly which one of Petrino’s hand pick guys have done a darn thing to help this franchise win a game? Jamal Anderson, Ovie, Houston, anybody?. People are coming out saying way to go Coach! Do it your way! Has he even proven he has a real plan, system? You guys are backing this coach as if he were the Tuna or something. He hadn’t done squat. Neither have any of the players he has brought here. Don’t look for my Falcons to be anything but losers for the next few years. In the meantime, the veterans who are actually in the locker room watching this tem go to crap are being told to shut up. What a crock!

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 25, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I agree with Mark Bradley — Petrino’s putting his stamp on the team and washing the team of the stench of Mora. The quicker he can release Mora’s players, the quicker this team can rebuild.

Of course, if the Falcons decide to change their minds and bring back Vick when he finishes his prison sentence, the rebuilding process will be that much faster.

By mark

October 25, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

I saw an analogy of Mora, and Petrino earlier.. ARE YOU STUPID? MOra hasn’t half the brains of Petrino. The Falcons will be leaps and bounds better next year.. Petrino knows what he is dong, and all you nay sayers will eat your words next year..

By punk stile Redneck

October 25, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Petino is no coach and this team in going down hill. All who want D. hall gone who are you going to get in his place? DB are hard to find. The rednecks in this town no nothing about football. D sander talk junk too and the rednecks wanted him gone to. Black player know football and play the best football in the world. The arm chair fans in Atlanta are clueless. Petiro and our Gm will take this team deeped in the clown show. He is going to bring in his players and still lose watch and see. Rednecks in charge they know how to f-ck up a flood watch and see! MCkay is a real JOKE!! Look at who he has pick fire him and fast!!

By Ron Roberts

October 25, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

I, too, like Dennis Dixon at Oregon. But is he a “Petrino-style” quarterback?

He’s more a “Vick-style” quarterback, and if he comes with a clean slate, a great attitude, and lacks a gaggle of close-knit criminal minds for companions, then I’m all for him in red and black, next year, too.

*Dear Coach Petrino,

Since you’re apparently calling all the shots, now, can I, as a long-suffering and faithful Falcons ask you to make one MORE change?

Can we please get back our REAL uniforms and return the rocka-wear-style FUBU gear to whomever we bought them from?

Faithfully a Falcon….

…Ron*

By Karl

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

The team is 1-6 give me a break, the best season was what 9-6 an dno better than 8-8 with Vick and his band of losers. Bobby build the team the way you like and lets end the discussion on where we are going with the Falcons. The season was over before it began, the best player was gone before the season began. How could anyone in this town have expected a winning season..DUH!!! Get on with the rebuilding.

By josh

October 25, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

couldn’t have said it better myself Ron,

Thank you

By Alex

October 25, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Falcons fans, just remember two things:

1. The 1989 Dallas Cowboys went 1–15 in Jimmy Johnson’s first season as head coach. However, Johnson’s rebuilding of the team soon took off. He won two Super Bowls.

2. The New England Patriots went 5-11 in Bill Belichick’s first season with the Patriots. Before Belichick arrived, Sportswriter Michael Holley, author of Patriots Reign describes the situation: “As bad as the contract situation appeared to be, there was something worse. The Patriots were a divided team, a tiny nation of fiefdoms. That was true of the locker room, and it was true of the coach-general manager relationship. Pete Carroll and Bobby Grier did not present a united front, and the players knew it. If some of them couldn’t get what they wanted from Carroll, they were not above turning to Grier to see what he thought. The Patriots lacked leadership and knew nothing of meritocracy. Theirs was a culture of entitlement and preferential treatment.” Belichick has won three Super Bowls.

Any of this sound familiar at the moment?

By mark

October 25, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Punk style redneck, get a clue pal.. And quit being racist.. If you really had any foresight you’d see what is going on with the falcons.. The past three years they have had a buddy instead of a coach.. Petrino is cleaning house, and if D-Hall’s ego is to big then his mediodcre butt can go elsewhere..

By 1eyedJack

October 25, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Time to clean house. Get rid of anyone not on board with the program. Can’t win in the NFL unless everyone is pulling in the same direction. Team chemistry and so forth. How many draft picks can we get for DHall and Alge? While we’re at it we can throw in some high salaried vets (Brooking, Dunn, Milloy, etc.) and clear up some cap room to sign some free agents who want to be here and play in this system. With all the buzzards circling MV7 I’m not sure we will recover any of that money.

By Falcons Fan

October 25, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

All of these overpaid players on the Falcons should be worry about keeping their job and shut up and play like their worth. If they don’t like what Coach P is doing, then go find another coach or Team what will kiss your “Axx”.

MeAngelo and MeCrumpler needs to be cut or trade and get someone who wants to play football and win. These two whiners will not be in the NFL for long.

By The Realist

October 25, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Question: How is getting rid of the “outspoken,” yet proven (check the stats) performers going to help us stop the run or the deep ball? Funny how we prefer “nice guys who keep their mouths shut” instead of playmakers who give us at least some chance to win. Guess we’d prefer a losing season w/ quiet, boring players to a losing season w/ “loudmouths.”

By ghost rider

October 25, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if Petrino is going to become a good NFL coach. I don’t think anyone else here does either. He was a good coach at Louisville..But, one can look at Steve Spurrier and his college coaching career vs his NFL career. No comparison! One can also look at Dennis Erickson’s college career vs his NFL career. Again no comparison. Some coaches just seem to thrive in the college game. Where some are better in the NFL. Go figure. Only time will tell.

By Michael M

October 25, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

Who made Bobby P a genius? As a nation we have gotten into a bad habit of following people who seemingly are in way over the head. If 1 + 1 = 2 and your boss tells you it equals 7 how would you respond?

By Jim P.

October 25, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

MARTY-BALL!! MARTY-BALL!! MARTY-BALL!!

By josh

October 25, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

what is stile? and what rednecks?

By mark

October 25, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

LOud mouths isn’t the problem.. It’s loud mouths that don’t produce.. We are yet again one of the Nfl’s worst against the pass.. So who is stopping the deep ball guy?? Yeah i’ll give Jackson being a questionable release, but maybe there should have been more.. Petrino is building a future, as did Shoerholtz.. I’ll sacrifice a season, or two to get a successful franchise for the future.. You all are all about instant gratification.. Get a grip thats not how you build a successful future. Maybe if you guys weren’t such moma’s boys who always got what they wanted you’d be in touch with reality.

By jeff

October 25, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

vick didn’t get “run out of town” he was an ignorant thug that ran an illegal ring. no one is crying for that felon now that harrington is our qb. he’s way better than vick, anyway. vick doesn’t deserve another chance. he should just live in a cage like the animal he is. all of them.

By punk stile Redneck FANS

October 25, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Vick went to the NFC champship , and Dan took this team to the super bowl no one has done better. We have true clowns for so call Fans.. Go and deer hunt because you no nothing about the game most have never played!

By Manny

October 25, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Uh, Jeff-

Leftwich is our quarterback. Harrington is 2nd string on the depth chart.

(Ok, now keep going with your ‘Vick is an animal’ racist rant.)

By josh

October 25, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

dude, what the heck are you talking about? Deer hunting? how does this relate to the falcons and football?

By A-ville Ranger

October 25, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

I agree 100% on this one.If Hall,Crumpler and any other player stands in the way of this team pulling together..cull them out.I think the smart thing would be to keep quite and get fair value after the season.I still believe,if given the latitude Petrino will build a winner.If Blank does any less than give him unqualified support for at least three years he deserves the chaos he sows.I’m watching the BC-VT game tonight,the BC QB Matt Ryan may well be the on field leader of this team’s resurgence.

By Ryder

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

Trent Dilfer, Kurt Warner, Mark Rypien, Matt Hasselbeck, Chris Chandler. What do these QBs all have in common? These are QBs that were on other TEAMS when they took them to the Super Bowl. In other words, Atlanta should not put all their eggs in a QB unless there’s a once in a lifetime player out there (like Peyton Manning, and there’s no one like him coming out). Petrino wants to build a TEAM, something that Atlanta brass has failed to do.

They’ve got an up-and-coming WR in Roddy White, a playmaker RB in Jerious Norwood, and they have a QB (Leftwich) who is a winner when he’s not being knocked to the ground because of an inept line.

He needs to continue putting the best players in place and do what got the Falcons to the ‘99 SB: Build a TEAM. This franchise got burned before and is now having to build with players who are here to win.

By no wonder atlanta is known as a loser town

October 25, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

People on here love bringing up something with no facts backing their weak argument. Actually under Vick they won 11 games and went to the NFC championship game, to the loser who doesn’t even know the record…One day some of the silly fans on here will have to stop blaming Vick. Last time I checked he is not playing this year. Atlanta is known for turning on their players and runnin them out of town. Deangelo is next. He will go to a better team with better fans and win a ring. You might not like his attitude but the guy produces and is the best corner the Falcons have and no cb coming out in the next draft will be as good. This team is a good 5 years away from being decent but knowing the Falcons that 5 will turn into 10….. You can call the Mora and Vick regime a joke all you want but I guarantee you that Mora will end up having more wins as a Falcon coach than BP. This guy will not be here longer than two years. Bet on that…. It is no need in having high draft picks if ol boy Rich Mc nugget is going to blow it like he has the last few years.

By new clown coach in charg

October 25, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

We have redneck ball in atlanta with Petino . I am in charge. The rednecks love it! But you will still lose watch and see! Players know a leader not a task master! The new clown show in atlanta sponsered by the rednecks! Players will give there heart soul and mind to a coach this a leader and wants to win not a task master!

By Rock

October 25, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Yes, the players are professionals and they are paid very well. That said, you cannot treat pros like college players who, in reality, are attempting to get drafted by the NFL. The Grady Jackson cut was a poor decision. Although the direction of this team is to go young, who will pay to watch the product? They are unbearable now, what will they be like in 2 weeks or next season for that matter? What free agents will want to come to Atlanta and play for a dictator? I am all for discipline but do we need another Tom Coughlin? As far as D Hall is concerned, I commend him for speaking out on the record about his feelings about the situation. it takes testicular fortitude, not stupidity or selfishness to speak up against an obvious wrong. By the way, the Falcons still have a problem: they are going to take a substantial hit for the Vick signing bonus.

By june_baby

October 25, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

the first person on the outta here bus, should be brooking. followed by koenen, anderson, mckay, petrino, coaching staff and scouting department, front office.

By jamaal

October 25, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Petrino sucks! The play calling is horrible, and now he’s making stupid transactions. Hall and Crump are our best players on team. If he was so good, so smart, immediately after losing Vick he would have realized we needed a QB, not 2 months later after the Joey experieces failed inevitably.

By t-man

October 25, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Arthur Blank did not help build Home Depot by being stupid. He made a mistake in being buddies with the players, ie Vick and hiring a player friendly coach in Mora.

Every year the Patriots cut some good player with some tread left, like Lawyer Milloy, yet still get better. I hope Blank stays the course.

By Bklyn Ran

October 25, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Dee Hall need to keep quiet and play ball. It seems like being that the team is not as good as it looks on paper Dee might be trying to find a way out. Let the players play and let the coaches coach. End of story

By The Realist

October 25, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

mark, first of all, If you had even a clue, you’d notice that the safeties have been at fault for most of the deep ball completions. Next, tell me how getting rid of Hall doesn’t make us even worse against the pass. Better yet, tell me w/ a straight face that D. Hall isn’t a productive player. No, no, tell me how you justify keeping all the “non-loudmouths” that are producing even less. By the way, you don’t get to be a pro bowl corner by “not producing.” Also, it’s obvious to me you haven’t been a Falcons fan very long. Otherwise, you’d realize how long we’ve been “sacrificing seasons” around here.

By KrisG

October 25, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Alge Crumpler is NOT a cancer. I cannot believe you fools keep calling him that, for one comment about a coach who clearly is not in sync with his players. But you don’t think he’s got a point, he’s just a cancer? So Dunn’s a cancer now too, huh?

Disagreeing with a coach does not constitute being a cancer. No one calls Harrington a cancer for blowing off steam. Why is that? We’re the only fans on earth who spend all of our time defending Joey Harrington for terrible play, and on top of it, you give him a pass whereas longtime Falcon leader Alge Crumpler lets off a little steam, now he’s a cancer.

Alge has earned the right to speak up. All of you guys who think he’s a “thug” or a “cancer”, it’s more about you than him. You people make me sick with your biased name-calling. Just keep protecting Joey’s image. That’s all that matters to you guys.

By Dan O'Connell

October 25, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

The most telling image from the Giants game recently was DeAngelo Hall on his knees in the middle of the field,having intercepted a pass, arms uplifted as if awaiting coronation by the adoring fans.The Falcons were down three touchdowns and he is celebrating one interception.Another in a long line of egoistic defensive backs with no loyalty to anyone but themselves.Shut up and make some plays. Dan O’Connell

By KrisG

October 25, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

And I know Joey Harrington is not the center of the Falcons problems… I only know when Vick had a better record with those problems, he took all the blame. Now, it’s this “it’s not Joey’s fault” mantra, over and over, and he’s got more credibility than longtime players. I clearly have been far too hopeful about America’s racial attitudes… we really HAVEN’T changed.

By Ric Horton

October 25, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

look i have been watching the falcons since i was a lil kid, if u going to cut one man because of his prformace, then all of our WR need to be gone except for the rookie. Also i like keith B, but he needs to go to so does D-HALL A.K.A “BIG PLAY RAY”. And let mckay go also. And im speaking for the fans when i say this we need to win NOW. If you going to make changes then make all the changes not just one. So do anyone think hall is good enough to moth off to the head coach and only get benched for the first qtr or half? ummmmmmmmmmmm NO….. come on Petrino get it together, bring in winners not whiners.

By someone help

October 25, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

How can the Falcons afford to cut anyone with such a jacked up record??? They need all the help they can get. With the way things are going, before the end of the year Petrino will be playing on the offensive line. Is Bill Parcells or Bill Cowher still willing to coach?? I think we have seen enough of these unsuccessful college coaches in the pro ranks. Can the Falcons put enough sense together and get a “seasoned” “professional football” coach to come and teach the Falcons how to win, and instill discipline???? What the heck does cutting Jackson do when your O line cant block or pass protect minnie mouse?????? Oops, seems like I just saw a fort-niner run by!

By Dooner Combs

October 25, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

Another home run. I guess you are good because you are from Kentucky. Let’s get rid of D. Hall as soon as possible. He is a parasite. Has anyone seen a successfull team made up of a bunch of loud mouths.

By woodie

October 25, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

I’ll bet Rossum is glad he’s out of here

By CDS

October 25, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

You’re kidding yourself if you think Petrino isn’t out of here either at the end of this season or next season. You cannot be the coach of a team when the team doesn’t respect you. Ask Bill Callahan and Mike Martz about that.

One of two things has to happen:

1. McKay, Blank, and Petrino has to blow up the entire team, and just rebuild for a couple of years.

2. Petrino needs to go, and they hire a coach with NFL head coaching experience (Marty Schotenhiemer, Steve Mariucci, Jeff Fassell, etc).

What makes Petrino so damned qualified for this job anyway? Louisville still has a great offense without him. Petrino should know better than to not discuss this move with the players. That strains the already thin trust or respect they had in him. I honestly would not be surprised to see this team go 1-15 or 2-14. That is why there is no heart or emotion shown on the field. They do not want to play for this guy.

By Shamus Thacker

October 25, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

The Cowboys went 1-15 their first season under Jimmy Johnson.

By Me

October 25, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

Ten years from now when the Falcons are going through yet another rebuilding phase nobody will even remember this.

By The Realist

October 25, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Well said, KrisG!

Dan, so, now D. Hall is wrong for his actions after a pic? Proves my theory that we prefer non-playmaking emotionless bodies for this wreck of a team.

By FatAlbert

October 25, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

Dennis Dixon for QB??? There’s an idea. Maybe we can pick him up in the seventh or eighth round and also get Pat White to play WR. When MV7 gets out of the pokey that will solve out kick returner problems too. Bye Bye Grady and I hope Dunn and Brooking are close behind!

By Sirreal

October 25, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Did I really hear someone say Petrino will be in the hall of fame?…. Wow!

By Dumbing Down

October 25, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Shamus said it all… Jimmy Johnson was 1-15 and remember he came after a legend… Tom Landry. They (Cowboy fans) were ready to burn his house down that year!

Do something Arthur… stop hiding… the organization needs a united front!

By A.Richey

October 25, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Petrino is not an nfl coach,and getting rid of jackson made no football sense at all.the owner and gm are not football savy,bring in a bill parcells or dan reeves back to get a players respect.college coaches will never garner the respect of pro athletes.and why didnt the ownwer stand behind vick in his time of trouble,he is a screwup for sure but he gave you all he had on the field.ray lewis was backed up by his team during a double murder trial and leonard little rams front office stayed with him after running someone over and killing that person while drunk.i know vick did something stupid but where is any help for a lost young man?????????and worst than all this the nfl billion dollar power folds to peta.and you now wonder why atlanta fans dont respect ownership.

By steve

October 25, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

bobby petrino can go straight to hell.To hell with him i say. You sir are really f*** up one thing that i truly love.Leave.Please don’t look back.

By Barry

October 25, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

For all those who say cutting Jackson made no sense…I don’t get it. Jackson has been poison in the locker room. He certainly showed no respect or loyalty to the club during the past year. His performance has been ok on a team as bad as the Falcons…and that isn’t saying much. He was on his way out of Atlanta anyway. Might as well stop paying his fat…contract now and open the door to develop a younger player.

Let’s not kid ourselves. This year is lost. It was lost before the season began. Our O-Line is not suited to the system Petrino runs. We knew that before the season began. We were going to be using a retread QB. We knew that before the season began. Our defense looked suspect too…Jackson or no Jackson. Why shouldn’t he develop young talent? We’re only playing to lose the top draft pick anyway.

Why should Petrino keep guys around who are going to continue to poison the locker room and to criticize him relentlessly? It is pretty ignorant of Atlanta fans to think that he or any other leader would want to put up with that when the season is lost anyway.

By Barry

October 25, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons should trade DeAngelo and Alge next season. If they can’t trade them…fine them for conduct detrimental to the them every time they open their mouths. If they don’t play as expected…bench them. These spoiled over pampered children don’t deserve to play the game they are priviledged to play.

By no_id

October 25, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Hey, we should just name this season “As The Falcons Turn”, cause this is definitely a soap opera season.

By ARealFalconFan

October 25, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

You good ole boys still have that plantation mentality. If someone speaks up they are a cancer huh? Seems to me like Alge and DeAngelo are more committed to winning than Brooking who says nothing or Petrino who does nothing, well nothing smart anyway. Some of you cross-burners would have made great slave masters. Do you dummies actually think another team is going to give you a high draft pick when they KNOW you are trying to get rid of a player? The Raiders got a 6th round pick for Randy Moss and now he is leading the NFL in touchdowns and receiving yards. I’m sure if he had the same stats and was playing for the Falcons you hillbillies would want him traded too. The Raiders were anxious to get rid of him too because he was a “cancer” well he’s with New England now and tearing up the league. Same story with Terrell Owens tearing up the NFC and on the odds on favorite team to make to the Super Bowl out of the NFC. Atlanta loves players like Keith Brooking, Chipper Jones, Jeff Francoeur, etc. They put up decent numbers, no flash, no leadership, no production in the clutch and most importantly no championships. This city loves em! Notice you never hear Bradley, Schultz or Moore take a shot at them for not producing. However they will blast a player that does especially one of color. You can call it racist if you want but look at how they have belittle Andruw Jones one of the few players in Atlanta that has actually came through in the clutch. They belittle Hall and Grady Jackson two of the better players on the Falcons. As for all of this non-sense comparing Bobby Petrino to Jimmy Johnson in the words of Hall it is asinine. Johnson actually won a national championship what did Petrino win Conference USA? Players win championships not lame, racist, cross bred writers or coaches.

By Ed

October 25, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Guys and Gals, you can say whatever you want about Jackson being overweight, but he has been the Falcons most consistent defensive lineman. Abraham and Coleman are known to miss games because of injuries. We are starting a rookie at the other DE position, and who that leaves playing nose tackle! You got it (Grady Jackson). I challenge anyone to compare our rushing defense with Jackson, and without Jackson. The numbers will definitely surprise you. I read some of the comments and some of you said that he is too old, but I have seen Brooking miss a great deal of key tackles. If a person can still perform at their position, then their age should not matter, (Ex. Brett Favre, Teddy B., ). According to Espn, Jackson led the league last year for tackles for a loss. THE FALCONS ARE THROWING AWAY THIS SEASON ANYWAY SO THEY CAN GET INTO THE BROHM ,WOODSON, AND RYAN SWEEPSTAKES. Happy Losing Falcons!

By Mark Bradley

October 25, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

There’s a theory in firing and hiring coaches: The new guy should be almost diametrically different from the old guy (who, if he’d been a raging success, wouldn’t have gotten fired in the first place). Petrino, as has been noted, is diametrically different from Jim Mora. We can disagree as to whether Petrino’s way will work in the NFL — I believe it will — but we can’t disagree that Mora’s way only had a shelf life of 26 games. And one thing more: If all these guys are quitting on Petrino already, why have six of the seven games been close? Wouldn’t a quitting team be getting beat 48-0? (That could happen soon enough, but it hasn’t yet. Which says something for the players — and the coaches.)

By The Realist

October 25, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

Barry…wow…now Crumpler’s conduct is “detrimental to the team?” Can someone please tell me the difference (in principal) between Crumpler’s one series of statements to the media & Harrington voicing his disagreement w/ being pulled? Oh yeah, different standards for different folks…

By GW

October 25, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

MR Grinch you must be a Warrick Dunn homer. The dude is old and runs like a sissy. NORWOOD is more explosive stronger and younger. He fits this offense if he would only get the ball more Im sure he can carry the load. Petrino is stubborn or his hands are tied when it comes to Dunn. LET NORWOOD RUN FREE at least to see if the dude is the future. We all know there are other issues at hand for the reason of this dismal season. But this Dunn and Norwood issue is old and everyone knows DUNN is DONE!!!!!!

By Schlep

October 25, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

Grady Jackson is lazy, he doesn’t practice hard, and he has a bad attitude. Let’s not forget that he sued the team for the release of medical records. DHall needs to shut his mouth. All he is doing is creating more tension for the team. Kick him off the team as well unless he can get his act straight. It’s about time that someone came in here and shook things up.

By Arealfalconfan

October 25, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

C’mon Bradley Mora was the wrong hire and so was Petrino. If Blank had hired Lovie Smith we wouldn’t be in this mess now. He makes it worse by hiring a guy that has never won a national championship or even played for one. Didn’t he sign a 10 year contract with Louisville and leave when the Falcons job became available? Didn’t he try to torpedo Tommy Tubberville at Auburn and get his job? This weasel isn’t fit to be the compass for what is best for the team. Some dummies on here are saying the me guys need to go, well shouldn’t that start with Petrino? Bradley’s comments are more evidence of AJC’s love for mediocrity. His reasoning is Petrino is a good fit because they aren’t really losing too bad. Look at the 1-6 record man!!! The margin of defeat doesn’t mean a thing. I say a 1-6 record says more about the players and coaches than the margin of defeat.

By DR

October 25, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

If memory serves correct, didn’t Dan Reeves take this team to super bowl in his second year as Falcons Coach in 1998?

One hell of rebuilding one year.

June Jones was the coach before Reeves.

By GT81

October 25, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

I’m amazed how many of you guys are ready to throw Crumpler, our go to playmaker for years, under the bus, just because of a couple of comments that probably were correct.

I’m willing to give Bo Pet the benefit of the doubt, but I am a bit concerned that his youth movement is being led by a #8 pick who seems, so far at least, to be worse than several guys who went later than he did.

By Barry

October 25, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Realist,

Alge was out of line…he just helped spread the fire on a sinking ship. Yes, he comments, even though only “one series” as you say, were publicly critical of coaching decisions when the team didn’t need such ridicule and distractions. That is conduct detrimental to the team.

Note I didn’t say he should be traded just for that one interview. He obviously is not happy when he’s not the focus of the offense. He was not happy with coaching decisions. If he’s not happy he should be traded while we still have a chance to get something in return.

If we can’t get something of value for him, he should be required to play out his contract without any more selfish outbursts or be fined for them.

By Henry

October 25, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

I hope your words ring true Mark, because I am tired of DeAngelo’s mouth and it has nothing to do with color or race because I am of the same color and race as DeAngelo. This kind of bahavior cannot be good for any team, much more one that is struggling and with a new staff. I am not too surprised by his behavior, in light of what Steve Smith told the press that he was saying to him during the game here against The Panthers, but I was most surprised that Algie, someone I respected so much who is a leader on this team did what he did. His behavior may have given root to DeAngelo’s courage. Coach Petrino should begin scouting for a replacement back and see what we can get for him in a trade. I am of the old school and behavior like this was not tolerated even in my black home.

By Barry

October 25, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

The difference between what Crump said and what Harrington said was like night and day. Crump was complaining about the coaches run the team…on the plays that are called, etc. (I think because he wasn’t getting the ball as much as he wanted) and Harrington was commenting on being pulled from a game. He didn’t make it sound like it was a conspiracy to replace veterans or that the coaches were incompetent.

By Trill Phil

October 25, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

WoW! KrisG & ARealFalconFan said it all y’all..especially for me b/c “you people” know how I feel about this already..double standards tsk tsk tsk ;-(..

(“You all” better) Hope this Bobby ain’t HUMPIN’ AROUND until he gets a NCAA job!

By Henry

October 25, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Cutting Grady and exposing Trey Lewis is a brilliant move, we were not going any place as a team with or without Grady, and he may have been a cancer in the locker room. D Hall is a good corner, but not so good as to cause a problem in the locker room, therefore I appeal to Bobby, Rich and Arthur to get rid of him and any other. i did not know that I would say this about Algie who has been one of my all time favorite Falcon, but what he did as a team captain and Veteran on this team is inexcusable, therefore he too needs to go. Bellichek,Shula, Parcels,Jimmy J,Holmgren,Walsh,and any of the other successful coaches would never tolerate this sort of behavior,and if we want to be successful neither should we.

By Shamus Thacker

October 25, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Maybe we should have a seance and ask Rankin what to do…

He’d prolly wan to hire Marion again, but he’s even deader now than when he coached.

By A-ville Ranger

October 25, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

ChrisG and others The coach isn’t always right… he is always the boss,at least on real teams.Any player who would undercut a new coach in this situation is a cancer on the team.If Crumpler wants to play for the Falcons he needs to shut his mouth except to support what Petrino’s trying to do.If he doesn’t want to be a Falcon…accommodate him.Petrino doesn’t make silly demands like players can’t sit on their helmets, nor is he anal about small things like how socks are worn.He is the coach though and he does(as he should)demand his players do as told.If you don’t think that’s right you don’t have the first clue about team play.

By jc

October 25, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

I am really trying to except Petrino but it’s hard. I do like the fact that he is and let’s keep in real about to clean house with the veterans and some do need to go but it’s the play calling it’s the with less than 2 minutes in the game punt cause we have 3 time outs and we can get the ball back knowing our defence can’t get the job done it’s switching quarterbacks the way he does and thinking Leftwich was the answer it’s having Dunn up the middle and getting no where and not putting Norwood out there instead so I am sorry I just don’t see how this man can make a difference and maybe that is why the players are lashing out the way they are because it seems to me Petrino is the type that he does not give a you know what on what anyone thinks it’s his way or no way even when his way is not the right way.

By Burger Brian

October 25, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

EVERYONE is “shell shocked”! Vick was into Petrino’s QB friendly system and there were great expectations. You know the rest of the story ~ Plan B has become Plan C and D and so on. Yes ~ it is clear that the decision has been made ~ blow the whole thing up an start over. They will trade Hall and anyone else they can get value for. Will Petrino be successful? no one knows whether he will be a Jimmy Johnson or a Spurrier. Guess who has the most to lose? Art Blank does! Clearly he is learning some very expensive lessons ~ otherwise he wouldn’t be spending time with Kraft. He has SIGNIFICANT motivation to get this turned around sooner than later ~ ego aside ~ the NFL can move you from billionaire to millionaire very quickly. Falcon fans need to make a statement with their wallets! The man that built Home Depot is facing the bigest challenge of his life! Dear Arthur, this WILL be your legacy!

By Mr. D

October 25, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

ARE YOU GUYS KIDDING? Petrino cuts one of the few players on defense that is actually playing well, and you idiots are praising him for it. We cut a guy a week after the trade deadline and get nothing for him. Chicago, Indy, and Tampa would easily give up a late round draft pick for big Grady. Do you realize we still have to pay this guy even though he is not playing for us? And this is helping us How? If you want to play the rookie more then you have the two split time or you just start the rookie and bring Grady in during certain situations. Cutting Grady accomplishes nothing. Whats wrong with having depth at a position, if the rookie gets hurt next week then who will replace him. This decision makes absolutely no sense. Petrino has officially lost this team and rightfully so.

By Eruditess

October 25, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Someone up the line makes the comment that Brooking hasn’t been playing that well this season. I take exception to that remark. He is the one of a very few on the team who HAS been playing! No, Keith hasn’t been scoring sacks the way he usually does, but he can’t be the entire defense AND sack the QB. I agree with the poster in that Dunn, Crumpler and others are flagging, but how many years can any player, no matter how good, be expected to carry a team. As for D. Hall (and any of the other gabbers), quityerbitchin’, put on your big girl panties and earn your inflated paycheck.

By Eruditess

October 25, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Someone up the line makes the comment that Brooking hasn’t been playing that well this season. I take exception to that remark. He is the one of a very few on the team who HAS been playing! No, Keith hasn’t been scoring sacks the way he usually does, but he can’t be the entire defense AND sack the QB. I agree with the poster in that Dunn, Crumpler and others are flagging, but how many years can any player, no matter how good, be expected to carry a team. As for D. Hall (and any of the other gabbers), quityerbitchin’, put on your big girl panties and earn your inflated paycheck.

By Blackbird

October 25, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Way to go Bobby, Brooking does not have the talent, he may be the worse MLB in Football at the NFL level. But he makes up for his lack of talent with hustle, and been a team player.

By Surprised

October 25, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Mark B. putting a spin on a team that is throwing in the towel at the half way point. In a weak NFC South were a three game win streak puts you right in the hunt. Other than the Colts the schedule doesn’t look to be that rough. Now with Leftwich out I can understand them thinking its over, but Grady played good ball and that is all that matters. A team can’t publicly speak of rebuilding until they are officially eliminated from the hunt and even sitting with one win in this sorry division anything is possible. This is a 8-8 maybe 9 win division winner. The Saint game was a death blow but Petrino’s goal line play-calling and decision to punt reeks of someone tanking it. The guy hates Joey H. and doesn’t hide it, can’t say I don’t agree but what a farce to season ticket holders. Do the Falcons really believe they have built that much leverage with there 20,000 fan base. The other 30k comes with corporate tickets and 15k of those usually root for the other team. The rest is charity and people who just want to get out of the house. The other tickets went to scalpers and people who wanted to experience the Vick experience. That so called waiting list will get put to the test next spring. Expect good seats cheap and bargain packages like the Hawks have, who by the way have taken their lumps but may finally break through this year. Whew, 15years after the Nique debacle. Make goodwill with Vick, help him become a better man and bring him back. If Blank is as savvy as I think he is, Vick will be back. No way does Blank miss out on that pay day and let the Raiders, Tampa or Redskins take what is his only chance to really get that new stadium he wants. Or he can always tank it and move to LA or build that great big stadium in Hall county. Then the demograhics can be like they really want it, win over those Georgia Dawgs fans.

By Steve T

October 25, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

I thought Bobby was a good coach, but now I am not sure. This is the NFL and people must want to play for you. Great coaches can use the talent around him to win and slowly put his system in places.

This guy seems to be I don’t like this player so he is gone. This will not work in the NFL.

By jc

October 25, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe I am hearing that with Lefwich out you can see the season being over..give me a break he played 3 quarters and he did nothing that Harrington did not do let’s not forget our receiver’s dropped half the balls Harrington threw and the O-line did not protect him just like they did not protect Leftwich who once again like with Jacksonville is hurt so please Atlanta stop putting this on Harrington..John Madden said it the best…”If you don’t have an O-Line you have nothing…end of story!!!

By hitwriter

October 25, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Bobby “Punt It Away” Petrino is a player killer… At least Hall cares about winning. Those wanting to trade him away are gonna be missing him in the coming seasons while Petrino runs this team further into the ground.

By petrinonoway

October 25, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

I’m going to miss Grady J. noway his fault I love the falcons always will, you say this is his team then he need to get player in here and play, don’t bring in someone that you pay a forture and hardly play him as for D hall just play but he’s not overrated can’t blame Vick for this on going bull s—-. the falcons is a mess and the whole league know’s it

By cb

October 26, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

D.Hall needs to be traded. His act has gotten old. When was the last time you heard such insubordination within a WINNING ORGANIZATION. It doesn’t happen because respect is given to the position of head coach by the players because it is EXPECTED. As professionals the players are EXPECTED to perform at a certain level EVERY WEEK because it is their JOB and they are well compensated for doing so. If they do not perform to the level that is EXPECTED of them then they should EXPECT to meet Grady’s fate. This team needed a wake up call to the realization that it is no longer business as usual. We as fans deserve better. Bravo Petrino. GO FALCONS!!!

By Larry

October 26, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

Mark,

Any thoughts as to whether this “youth movement” was part of the plan prior to the Vick fiasco?

By Tim

October 26, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

This team needs some overhauling. There is no quick fix if they want to win and win consistently. It is time to get rid of older, whiny players who are used to being pampered and coddled by young coaches who would rather have players like them than do the things necessary to win (like asserting authority). Speaking of future roster improvements: MATT RYAN sure would look nice in a Falcons uniform next year. In response to Hall, he can go for any 1st round pick the Falcons can get for him. He refuses to get any better; he is what he is and he will get no better on the field or off.

By Texans Fan

October 26, 2007 4:35 AM | Link to this

So you cut a player in the middle of the season ?….I think he was wrong,wrong,wrong…..The least he could have done was cut him at the start of the season or use him for back up……….As for hall I am sure he will not be back next year and I hope he come to Houston……..We allready got your best QB…ha,ha,ha……I would say for grady J to come to Houston but we have got some good D linesmen

By A Few Words

October 26, 2007 7:59 AM | Link to this

Man, do most of you think that drafting the next best qb is that simple and easy………….Remember the Falcons has always struggled with ascessing talent, so what makes you think that all of a sudden thats going to change? Just look at the performance thus of the last draft picks, and that should be your answer.

By T.C

October 26, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

yall can say what you want about cutting hall or crump or any other vet.truth is this team is not going anywhere no time soon.you got 2 choices,1.keep the vets you have and work ego’s out,bring in other vet help and be competitive.2.start completely over bringing in the players of your liking(clean house)so we(us fans)can were paper bags over our heads for 10 years.you people gotta understand you cant tear a man down for speaking out because he want to win,this is football not the church witnessing team! yall so called fans disturb me.

By Dumbing Down

October 26, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

this is a “snake-bitten” organization. With this in mind, it will take several years of player changes to be competitive week in and week out.

The eventually the buck starts and stops at the top.

The ghost of Rankin Smith is laughing!

By Muhammed

October 26, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

Is Blank another version of the Smith-Clampet Regime?

Getting a new owner is the start of solution to this franchise’s debacle!

Draft Ted Turner!

By Dawggy Style

October 26, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Suppose Grady Jackson is stubborn, out of shape, and consistently refuses to follow instructions from his coach? Solution - Trade him or cut him.

Suppose DeAngelo Hall is the greatest one-man defensive TEAM that the NFL has ever seen? He’s not and you still need 11 players pulling in the same direction to have a CHANCE to be successful! Solution - Trade him or cut him.

Suppose Alge Crumpler has a bum knee and his most productive years are behind him? Suppose his frustration at losing his buddy MV7 has finally gotten the best of him and he now has no respect for the new coaching regime? Solution - Trade him or cut him.

Suppose guys like Michael Boley, Todd McClure, Keith Brooking, Lawyer Milloy and even the often maligned Roddy White go out and show an honest effort every Sunday, all the while keeping their divisive opinions to themselves because they understand that they are players and not coaches? Solution - Build your TEAM around these guys and add to them via the draft, trades and free agency as soon as possible.

I really can’t make it any simpler for those of you that wish to remain simple minded!

By MCA

October 26, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

McKay has been a flop,four years under his leadership and the franchise can’t make a 38 yard field goal, or block for the quarterback of the week. The lack of an offensive line also makes it impossible to set up and throw to our hard handed wide receivers. Why can they not see this???? What quarterback is not 50% more accurate when he does not have a defensive end hanging on his throwing arm? Even Leftwich (6 million $ mistake) might produce with a line. We suck and Mckay is responsible!!!!!

By yellowblood

October 26, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Trade the entire team for the draft rights to Matt Ryan.

By Kelley

October 26, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

CAN I HELP D HALL PACK?

The sooner he is gone the better.

Bout time the Falcons have a coach who wants to be a leader rather than a buddy.

By VickBeliever

October 26, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

Attention to all black atheletes in Atlanta if you speak your mind regardless if you are right or wrong you will be labeled in this city as a trouble maker. So here’s my advice to you guys Crumpler, Vick, Hall. I am a Falcon fan but don’t be the man’s puppet.

By Soryu

October 26, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

The reason the Falcons haven’t been losing 48-0 is because they have been playing pretty poor teams (Saints) or teams that had a very bad day and were lucky to win (Jacksonville, Tennessee). How many teams win 48-0 with five turnovers? How many teams win with five turnovers?

The Falcons lost by 21 to an average team. If the Falcons lose to the Colts 48-0 it will only be because the Colts were having a bad day. The one bright spot on this so-called team was the defense, I am sure that genius from Loser..I mean Louisville has now totally demoralized the one unit that was at least playing average. Expect massive bloodshed from here on out. The Falcons have reached the last trench and the generals are shooting their own men…it’s about to get very ugly.

By fatz

October 26, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

if you were petrino and you lost your cornerstone player and had an inept GM above you, what would you do? you would do exactly what he’s doing. this season is toast, why would anybody expect more. we have no offense. i feel sorry for the defensive players because they are credible, but they aren’t the story here, in fact the NFL is basically about building an offense that can beat a blitz (the main requirement to win) and then putting a credible defense next to it. we aren’t there. so we need to garner salary cap, make the right choices on draft day, spend free agent money wisely- not too much $ on any one player at this state…… and without question- get rid of ANY player who is a malcontent and soils the locker room. this team will get real young next year and it will be made in petrino’s image. Mark’s right- Blank has figured out he needs to stay in his office and make paper airplanes- his biggest decision will be the role of the GM and who should be there

By T.C

October 26, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

jc why are you still talking about harrington? when the falcons release him you wont hear of him being in the NFL again.he’s had too many years on too many teams to prove himself.as a Q.B(harrington)you have been in the nfl too long to not know when your getting blitzed.what ever happened to 1-2 throw and 1-2-3 steps then throw or just throw the ball away not fold up like a blanket.betcha he didnt get this much support for being sorry in detroit or miami.HE SUCKS……..

By fatz

October 26, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

and …. leftwich is just a smoke screen to keep the fans from starting fires in the upper deck out of frustration. he can’t stay on the field- never has been able to, and unfortunately lived up to billing in less than one game. so we rolled the dice on him and came up with snake eyes. we won’t do it twice.

By Wesley

October 26, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Is this a joke. Joe Petrino is an idiot if he cut Grady Jackson. I dont know who did it but i do know that he has the most tackles for a loss this year and was our best lineman last year. Petrino has now p** of Warrick and Alge who have been the strength of our offense for quite some time now. Petrino sucks and should go back to college. Without Vick we still have great players and should have a great team but suddenly everyone is angry and we suck. O and our huge Full back that we never ever ever use except for blocking. How about on third and short we run him up the middle for any easy first down everytime? he can carry 4 men on his back for two yards. This year is screwed and in my opinion Petrino is just gonna turn into another Spurrier/Saban!!!

By Wesley

October 26, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Is this a joke. Joe Petrino is an idiot if he cut Grady Jackson. I dont know who did it but i do know that he has the most tackles for a loss this year and was our best lineman last year. Petrino has now p** of Warrick and Alge who have been the strength of our offense for quite some time now. Petrino sucks and should go back to college. Without Vick we still have great players and should have a great team but suddenly everyone is angry and we suck. O and our huge Full back that we never ever ever use except for blocking. How about on third and short we run him up the middle for any easy first down everytime? he can carry 4 men on his back for two yards. This year is screwed and in my opinion Petrino is just gonna turn into another Spurrier/Saban!!!

By JBL

October 26, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

ok so,d.hall select the players,sign the checks,block,throw the ball,catch the ball,call the plays,create the plays,ect….please yall d.hall haters.out of all the crap going on with this organization the only thing yall can come up with is trade or cut hall! i guess 1 player make the team.

By Soryu

October 26, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Surpised:

Vick is never going to play for the Falcons again. Please try to accept this. The fan base would never accept it. Sure you’d have the Nation of Islam branch of the Falcons loving it who only care if the Falcons have a black QB, but that’s not enough to build a fan base with.

Can you see the protests, death and bomb threats and the like every game he played..talk about a PR nightmare from hell.

By T.C

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

so if spurrier is a better coach than patrino,what that says about the birds top man incharge.glanville said it right! “this is the NFL which stands for Not For Long when you call chicken BEEEEEEEEEP!plays and decisions like that”.were done for another 10-15years.

By July Jones

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

D’Hall is not the reason this team is in the tank right now. The number 1 reason is Petrino and his mis-management on and off the field. (Do you know he originally told the players not to talk during pregame meals !!!!! - WTF does he think? Is the Pop Warner league?)

The number 2 reason is McKay / Blank - for sinking all of their resources into a bubble-head like Micahel Vick and not building a more balanced team.

If they wanted a coach who was going to be the face of the franchise and to serve as their spokesman to the media, they should have never fired Dan Reeves.

This fish is rotting from the head down, not from the tail up.

By Fears

October 26, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

D. Hall is a premadonna just like Mike Vick that Jim Mora and his staff sucked up to. And now Petrino has to clean up Mora’s mess. Remember, when Blank hired Petrino he said he wanted someone who would instill some discipline. Thus, he is letting Petrino do what he was hired to do. D. Hall, Crumpler, Dunn, and any other whiners need to be outta here in 2008!

By July Jones

October 26, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Soryu - right on.

Vick is gone. He’s soon to be in jail. His house is up for sale. He isn’t coming back.

I don’t give a crap if the Falcon’s get another black QB or not. Let’s just get one that can distribute the ball and move the chains.

By GE

October 26, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

The importance of the NFL coach is over blown.That’s why they are fired every year. Players win games ..not coaches. Placing a Petrino stamp on the Falcons does not make them good if they have no confidence in him. Cutting Grady Jackson does not show that Petrino is smart. It shows that he is petty. He is looking out for numero uno..himself. DHall and Crump are not barking for no reason. Belicheck does not make New England good(except for cheating). It is the quality of the playes. Jimmy the Greek got it right when he said that the only secure job for white men in the NFL is as coach(although the league is trying to bring back the slow footed drop back quarterback.We all know the deal..don’t we?

If the Falcons had an offensive line like the Patriots and the Colts, Vick would never have set a record for rushing as a QB and Byron would not be injured.

By Cary

October 26, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Petrino is a great coach. He is very good at assessing talent, and not only can coach in his own right, but surrounds himself with other good coaches. The team he inherited stank to begin with, and only Vick kept the wins coming due to his ability to run. I don’t understand how people can complain about Petrino giving up on the season. What season? It’s not like the team is going to even sniff the playoffs. It is obvious from reading all the posts against Petrino that these people are not true fans. A true fan wants the team to play well, not individual players.

Petrino is no-nonsense. If you don’t follow the rules you are gone. His players at Louisville respected him, but did not necessarily like him. They consistently won with him coaching. If you want to question Petrino’s ability to win, look at what happened to Louisville when Petrino left. It is obvious that many Falcon players are not used to respecting their coach, or owner for that matter.

No amount of veteran help will solve the Falcon’s current problem because the veterans do not appear to be leaders. New leaders must be established, and the poison on the team needs to be eliminated.

By Fat Daddy

October 26, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

To Trill Phil:

You are an idiot, making this thing into what you are insinuating. You are everything that’s wrong with the world today.

By FootballFemme

October 26, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

I’ll throw in my two cents:

1)It’s far too early to tell what kind of NFL coach Petrino will be. However, let’s be honest - he was brought in to a bad situation that virtually guaranteed a losing season. Let’s give him at least another full season before we start praising or damning him.

2)The Falcons need to rebuild their lines, both on offense and defense. Regardless of whatever offensive/defensive schemes the new coach is cooking up, it’s hard to argue that we have one of the weakest O-lines in the league, and our defense is undersized. Every team in the NFL knows this and exploits these weaknesses.

3)D’Angelo Hall’s mouth is inversely proportional to his level of talent. He’s not nearly as good as he thinks/says he his, and his whining is getting worse. Sure, he’s got a right to speak his mind, but maybe we could ignore it more if he were able to control his temper and match up with the top WR’s in the NFL. He doesn’t, so let’s get him gone. I’m sure he’d be much happier somewhere else anyway.

4)Let’s not waste precious $$ on a top QB draft pick. That didn’t work out too well the last time around, remember? Let’s focus on getting good, young, talented *core * players (linesman, safeties, etc). My beloved OSU Buckeyes turn out great linebackers and linemen every year. How ‘bout we bring Laurinitis down here?

5)The entire organization needs an attitude adjustment. I’m sick of the divisiveness and whining and finger pointing, from the front office on down. What I’d really like is for this organization to stop airing it’s dirty laundry in the media and focus on FOOTBALL. It takes a team to win a game, and it takes a team to lose a game. Falcons, quit whining to the press and play with some pride and respect.

By Bo

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

I agree with enough is enough ,Chris and Mark very good reason for support of Petrino and team. Hall don’t let the door hit you in the a*& on the way out.

By Joe Mitchell

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

MV7 fan:

LSU lost to Kentucky!!!!!!!!!1

Miles got out coached and LSU was outplayed!!!!!!

Blew the opportunity for a championship……

By love mike vick

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

List of NFL records and milestones In 2006, Vick became the only quarterback in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards during the regular season. In 2006, Vick set the NFL record for most yards per carry in a season, at 8.4. When Vick and RB Jerious Norwood both ran for over 100 yards in Week 4 of the 2006 season, the Falcons became the only NFL team to ever record two games in a franchise’s history where both the quarterback and a running back on the same team surpassed the 100-yard mark in the same game. (Vick and Warrick Dunn both eclipsed 100 yards in Week 2 of the same season.) Vick (1,039 yards) and Dunn (1,140) became the first QB/RB tandem in NFL history to each go over the 1,000-yard rushing mark in the same season. They also became the fourth set of teammates in league history to each have 1,000 or more yards. The last set of teammates to accomplish the feat were Cleveland RBs Kevin Mack (1,104 yards) and Earnest Byner (1,002) in 1985. Earned his second consecutive and third overall Pro Bowl nod in 2005 as he passed for 2,412 yards and 16 touchdowns in addition to leading all NFL quarterbacks with 597 rushing yards and six scores. Named to the second Pro Bowl of his career after leading the Falcons to their third division title in team history and breaking numerous NFL and team records in 2004. Set an NFL postseason record for a quarterback with 119 rushing yards in the 2004 NFC Divisional Playoff win against the Rams. Became the first quarterback to ever throw for more than 250 yards and rush for over 100 yards in the same game at the Broncos (October 31, 2004). Named to the 2002 Pro Bowl, becoming the seventh quarterback to be voted to the NFL All-Star game in his first year as a starter since 1970, joining Dan Marino of the Miami Dolphins (1983), Brett Favre of the Green Bay Packers (1992), Kurt Warner of the St. Louis Rams (1999), Daunte Culpepper of the Minnesota Vikings (2000), Donovan McNabb of the Philadelphia Eagles (2000), and Tom Brady of the New England Patriots (2001). This group would later include Marc Bulger of the St. Louis Rams (2003), Philip Rivers of the San Diego Chargers (2006), and Tony Romo of the Dallas Cowboys (2006). Top overall NFL draft choice in 2001 after a celebrated college career at Virginia Tech. Was the fourth Falcons #1 overall pick in club history (Tommy Nobis in 1966, Steve Bartkowski in 1975, Aundray Bruce in 1988) THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER ONE. AND EVERYONE KNOWS IT.

By FootballFemme

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

Hey “love mike vick”, something tells me that you’d love to be his cell mate in the Federal pen. Guess we better warn him not to drop the soap in your presence.

In all seriousness, though, Vick had talent. We know that. What he lacked was a sense of personal responsibility and good decision-making skills. Thus, he’s now a convicted felon who will probably not play in the NFL again. Sad but true. And for all of his individual achievements, he wasn’t able to bring a championship to Atlanta. Facts are facts.

By Chad Johnson

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

I keep listening to everyone rant and rave about how sorry D. Hall is. Besides Deion Sanders, D. Hall is the best cornerback Atlanta has ever had. He hasnt given up that many TD’s. Every corner is going to give up TD’s. Champ Bailey, Charles woodson. So if Atlanta gives up D. Hall, Who is going to play his position? Everyone keeps talkn about what the Falcons need to do like the Falcons have always been a winning franchise. Just accept the fact that Atlanta will never win games.

By aziatikstadik

October 26, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Petrino’s First Year Mid-Term: C+

Pros: 1) The offense can move the ball between the 20s, due to a real passing game. 2) The team has competed every Sunday. 3) The coaching staff has not been afraid to make tough decisions (coaches do NOT answer to players).

Cons: 1) The best coaches fit the scheme to suit the talent. We don’t have the talent to play “Petrino-ball” yet. Hence, our running game has gone into the toilet. There should be more use of the “zone” scheme of recent years, to take advantage of Dunn and Norwood’s style of running. 2) Slow response to D. Hall’s initial outburst. Should have sent a strong message the first time. It may have prevented Episode #2. 3) Better communication w/ players. While he doesn’t answer to them, they are the ones following his lead. They need to be able to trust him. The Jackson episode cold have been handled better.

Outlook: Publicly, Petrino is sticking to his guns, but privately, he is probably getting an education of a lifetime. He’s done a decent job given the tough circumstances, but starting next year, he will need to have a better grasp of handling players at this level. Take a book from Teddy Roosevelt: Be gentle but carry a big stick.

By casual observer

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

A few quick observations;

1.) Crumpler is a vet that has earned the right to say what he feels about the direction of the team.

2.) D-Hall is more talk than play BUT he is your best corner and probably better than 90% of the corners in the league.

3.) Big Grady will have a very minumum Salary Cap hit. Remember Football is a business you can’t just cut whomever you don’t like because they aren’t what fits into your little narrow-minded views.

4.) Give Petrino time. He is playing poker with a very bad hand. He’s folding and preparing for the next hand (smart move).

5.) McKay is stealing money.

By Darrell

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

I love it. It’s about time that a coach took control of this team and turned it into we instead of me. I believe that this is the beginning of more major changes; maybe D Hall who knows but i like what I am seeing. Put up or shut up. Get with the plan.

By DAP

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

Lets get real.

1. Petrino was handed a team without a quarterback. Hard to win in a transition year.

2. Bad apples have to go. This is standard business no matter what type of business.

3. Grady suead the team, hence a bad apple. He would have been let go earlier if Coleman was ready to play. As soon as Coleman came back, he was let go. That is the real story.

By DAP

October 26, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Lets get real.

1. Petrino was handed a team without a quarterback. Hard to win in a transition year.

2. Bad apples have to go. This is standard business no matter what type of business.

3. Grady suead the team, hence a bad apple. He would have been let go earlier if Coleman was ready to play. As soon as Coleman came back, he was let go. That is the real story.

By T.C

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

for everyone that comments and think they have a solution, heres one for you. the falcons are going to be sorry with patrino now(if he’s still here and dont fold up his tent and head back to the college ranks)and how ever long he’s allowed to stay.yall think cleaning house if going to change something with this franchise your dreaming.very little college coaches servived in the NFL coming strait from college.sure you can name a few who did survive but you cant compare patrino to them.when the time come when he’s sent packing i gotta see what all you AJC fake masterminds have to say then.im a fan but the falcons sucked since 1968.

By cedward

October 26, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

This is the most ridiculous thing I haver heard! BP has no idea of how to manage a pro team. I’d rather see D Hall and Alge all go elsewhere and win instead of wasting their time with a college coach that coached in a weak conference and still couldn’t go undefeated and only won a bowl game! This was a good team. Even with the loss of Vick, this was still a good team. They have no offensive gameplan at all. Somebody needs to tell Petrino that those weak college plays won’t work at this level. I’ll bet he couldn’t even win in the SEC!

By Thomas

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

I would have preferred Amobi Okoye from Louisville to fix the middle of the defensive line. Anderson has played OK, but he has not provided any sort of pass rush. I think the Falcons are a team made up big names, with big paychecks who do not produce at the level they get paid. I was a huge Patrick Kearney fan, but we simply could not afford him. Abraham is not playing like a Top 5 or 10 DE. D-Hall is the wrong player for the organization we are trying to build, nor is he a true shut-down corner like we need. I love Keith Brooking and he is still playing well, but his contract is going to be too much soon. Ditto for Warrick Dunn and Rod Coleman (if he ever gets healthy). Our team has some nice parts to it, with Roddy White looking like a #1 receiver (to an extent) and Norwood being a real talent (but maybe not a full-time back) and I think we had our first good top-to-bottom draft in years. I like Petrino. I loved him at U of L and I think he is a man who can build a solid, winning foundation here. We just need to calm down and give him some time. We are the Atlanta Falcons and we have never had back to back winning seasons, so relax before you start calling for him to be fired. And what is Crumpler’s deal? No, he has not been thrown to that much and I do think he is one of the best TE’s in the NFL, but he is not here every week. As far as our QB play, Harrington has been OK considering he has to run for his life on every play behind a work in progress O-Line. I went to undergrad at Marshall University and I dont know about Leftwich’s health, but I can tell you that he is a leader that doesn’t understand the word “quit”. As much as I loved Mike Vick and I would have NEVER admitted this if he was still our QB, but it was east to tell when he had given up. I would be ok with Harrington or Leftwich at QB (behind a good line and with a running game) while we draft a youngster in the second round next year.

By Theedge

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

Dixon is maybe the 5th or 6th best QB in the draft why are you guys clammoring for that. The best is what the Falcons need and that tackle from Mich. Go out and secure the O-Line and Get a accurate QB. If you got to trade Meangelo D-Fall to do it then so be it. Get rid of him while he still has trade value.

By bg

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

Fist of all, I will agree that the coach should be the one calling the shots, selecting the players to fit his system. But at the same time he needs to go and talk to his players and tell them what his plan is. First of all Mike Vick was the offense, if you can’t see that now, then you are more confussed than I thought, he was such a good player that he covered up alot of holes that this team has on offense and defense. It is sad that they didn’t realize that, or didn’t care. The offense line sucks thats why Mike ran so much, no team should give up 13 sacks in 2 games, thats crazy. But to give the coach credit he said we need to improve the offensive line, look how much time Brady has in NEW ENGLAND, a good team has a good line, if you don’t have that, then it dosen’t matter who you draft or have a QB or running back. But I would admit we do need to get ride of the dead wieght, but that dose not include D-Hall, or Crumpler, they are just fustrated, and they where made to turn their back on a friend and teammate in a point in his life when he needed them. But most of you don’t know the meaning of loyalty, and I wouldn’t expect you to, most of you have never played sports, or been apart of anything bigger than yourself. You don’t know what loyalty, team, family is. In a family you forgive, allow one to make-up for their faults, and you stand by them, pat them on the butt and say keep your head up, learn from your faults, get better and don’t do it again.

By Chris

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

I’m at a lost for words to describe what feel for the falcons. I have been a fan all my life and never have I been so disappointed that I forgot this was a bye week. Neither the X generation nor the Echo boomers are interested in a my way or the high way system. As a fan, I would like to see an organization that had some backbone, that wasn’t afraid to back its players when they make mistakes and screw up. The falcons seem clueless as to what direction they should be going. Its nice to see that people are finally seeing K Brooking for the joke he really is. I watch this crap on sunday and theres absolutely nothing to cheer for except for the fact that they lost and may get a good draft pick, but behind the decisions they are currently making, whats the use. My advise, get rid of the tyrant that wants to treat grown men like kids, get rid of the joke at MLB, keep D Hall, it will take a decade to find another 1/2 decent corner, maybe he has a point with his comlplaints. How stupid was it to get rid of Grady with Brooking standing behind him. Forget 5 yard Brooking, he’ll be diving at angles about 15-20 yards now, hopefully, he’ll pick the opposite teams angles. What a 9 year JOKE!!! Get rid of Harrington NOW!!!. Start a safety or something at QB, another joke. When is the NFL going to realize that Joey was a mistake. Keep Roddy, Jenkins and Horn, they have Heart at least. I love you Dunn, but you is washed up. I’m tired of watching you bounce around in the hole on your head. And last, hire me as a consultant, or if you don’t get help here, get some help somewhere, the Vick incident should have showed that as an organization you are out-of-touch with your players, if not Vick, your other biggests names are trying to tell you something, so WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!

By Soryu

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

Cary:

I’m a Bronco fan, but I can tell when someone is better suited for the sticks of Louisville than the NFL. You don’t cut without anything in return one of the few people on the team doing anything. You don’t demoralize the only unit even playing at the average level, you don’t get rid of a player and have the players have to find out about it from the media. Talk about amateurish.

IS he trying to lose on purpose? At least that would be logical, if not, his moves defy all logic and reason.

By JB

October 26, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

AS A FALCON FAN I’M SARTING TO QUESTION ARTHUR AND RICH ABOUT THEIR PERSONNEL MOVES. GO INTO A SEASON WITH NO KICKER, NO LINE, NO BACKUP QB. PETRINO SAYS HE LIKE BIG LINEMAN AND BIG RB’S,WE DON’T HAVE ANY THAT FITS HIS SCHEME. SO DON’T SAT BIG GRADY DIDNT FIT INTO OUR PLANS WHEN I CAN NAME SEVERAL WHO DOESNT PERFORM. THIS DEFENSE DOESNT LOOK NOTHING CLOSE TO WHAT RICH BUILT IN TAMPA BAY…OR WAS THE TRUE MASTER MIND TIM RUSKELL..? AS A FAN AND A SEASON TICKET HOLDER I HAVE NOT BEEN TO A GAME YET THIS YEAR AND DONT’ CARE IF I GO. JUST NOT EXCITED.

ALSO, ARTHUR AND RICH SAID THEY WANT TO MODEL THE FRANCHISE AFTER NEW ENGLAND. NO ME GUYS NO FAT CONTRACTS JUST BUY INTO THE SYSTEM PLAY HARD GUYS WITH GREAT COACHING. OK T. OWENS AND RANDY MOSS WANTED TO COME HERE RICH AND ARTHUR SAID NO WAY. OK T.O. MAY BE LOUD BUT HE PRODUCES AND RANDY MOSS IS GOOD ENOUGH TO GO TO NEW ENGLAND…WHATS UP?

ARTHUR THIS IS FOOTBALL NOT HOMEDEPOT. WE ARE GETTING TIRED OF THE LIP SERVICE. YOU CANT WIN WITH A BUNCH OF CHOIR BOYS. SURE THESE GUYS ARE POSTER BOYS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE WHICH IS GREAT..BUT ARTHUR WE JUST WANT TO WIN. RICH NEEDS TO START BEING ACCOUNTABLE.

IF PETRINO WANTS TO BUILD HIS TEAM A CERTAIN WAY THATS FINE. BUT HE COULD HAVE SARTED SOMEWHERE MORE PRESSING LIKE THE O-LINE- LB’S DB’S.

GIVE US A WINNER!

By Peck R Wood

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

Bobby P may as well be Master P as far as his ability to coach AND manage the team.

Great coaching skills means being able to get the most out of the players that you have to play with now and not the future.

The NFL means “Not For Long” If Bobby P does not win, he will see just how quickly he will “cut” from the team by King Arthur. I give him one this year and next to win and after that he will be gone like all the others before him.

When King Arthur passed on Lovie Smith and other quality coaches, I knew we would be in for many years of more excuses for losing.

Bobby P can use the excuse this year for not having “his” players, but after that what excuse will he use?

By bob williams

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

What a silly article! Another college coach comes to the NFL and does things the way he did them in college. You can’t threaten to take someones scholarship in the NFL. Petrino will go the way of Saban and Spurrier. No more college coaches in the NFL please!

By Falconsfanin bama

October 26, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Well I have been a Falcons fan for years I have seen coaches and players come and go. I really thought there was going to be a change when Arthur Blanks bought this team and we got Vick. I thought the Ranklin Smith era was over. Now we have a college coach trying to coach in the pro’s. Bobby Pertino is no pro coach, He is a great college coach like Steve Spurier, Or a Nick Saban, But he is no pro coach. I feel his methods and coaching style will never work in the pros. He took a team that led the leauge 3 years rushing the leauge. To now they cant run the football and we havent got a back that can rush for a 100 yards. Every one wonts to blame the players . Its the coaches thats the problem. The players in that locker room see what’s going on and some or speaking there mind. How does a coach waive a Grady Jackson a player who is leading the team in tackles. I know we lost both of the QB’s we had in Vick and Schaub. But the QB’s are not all thats wrong with this teams. They have no Oline, No secondary, and the offense looks as though it is lost. It wouldnt matter if you had Tom Brady or a Payton Manning they would be sacked behind that O-Line. And if we had Vick playing this year. He still could not do much behind the o_line we have. If they bring pertino back another season every thing Arthur Blanks has worked for to pack the Ga Dome and get the fans involved with the Falcons is going to go down the drain. Pertino needs to go back to the college game, Arthur Blanks needs to make a call to Marty Schottenhimer, or Bill Cowler, or even Bill Parcells we need a pro coach that knows the gameto get this mess Pertino has caused straighten out. Pertino needs to realize at Louiville and his winning record there. Louiville didnt play the best players to play football every week like the Falcons do.

By Vick's ma Brotha

October 26, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Hears anotha whitey riter praisen the Man for cuttin a big blak brotha and finin anotha sleek blak brotha just to keep the white mony in Blank’s pocket.

D’Angelo could be a better winning coach fo the longist tim than Bambino Petrino. He is just anotha racist pig lookin out for whitey.

By Rob johnson

October 26, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Mark, who are you kidding, you are really making a fool of yourself. Do you really believe the crap you write. No one can believe you, when you print what you printed today, shame, this coach will be back in college football next year. The pressure has already kicked in, he will not be around next year.

By Trill Phil

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

Matt Ryan is not the answer. He got pressured all night by VickTech until that last gasp drive. If he got THAT much pressure from a NCAA defense, imagine what will happen when he has NFL defenses being blocked by GHSA caliber OL-men? Scary.

Honestly, Brohm won’t fit either. If you look at him closely, he gets the tendency to get happy feet when he’s pressured. Ryan kept his cool for the most part, but he had to throw too many times when he wasn’t ready. Brohm gets happy feet and makes either a) an interception or b) a long sack, as evidenced vs UCONN last week.

Bobby Pee, I guess (?), is trying to make his mark in the upcoming draft(s) so he can build his dream team. Only time shall prove how correct he is. However, freeing oneself of veteran leadership on a Kinder Kare football team won’t bring too much sucess in the NFL. You REALLY DON’T cut a Gracdy Jackson, you either keep him in a DT rotation for the entire season OR you trade him at the beginning (or the deadline) for players and/or picks. This is the formula the NE Pats use for sucess, they don not overpay vets but at the same time they do not allow them to be set up for failure either. When they decide to let someone go, it’s either b/c they know that the player is near the end of the rope or his trade value is at an all-time never seen again high. Why is this not done down here, I have no F%^$n clue.

McKay, Bobby Pee, and Blanky all need to take stock in what they are steering thier ship into, because IF they aren’t careful in any future roster moves, drafts included, and don’t bother to evalute talent at a better clip than their present state, they ALL stand to lose more than a few NFL games every Sunday. They shall lose a city, a state, and a whole heap of $$$$$$….

and contrary to unpopular belief I’m not what’s wrong with the world. I just happen to see too many of the world’s wrong go “un-righted”. And frankly my dear Scarlett, I DO give a damn! But thanks for the input Daddy-O!

By Marquel

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

i think Mark’s report is wrong. When you lose and lose like this everyone wants to point fingers. If you true Falcons have notice, had you ever heard Warrick, Alge, or D-Hall speak like this against management. So something is wrong. Warrick is a quiet person and even he is saying things. Come on the cancer is in the management not the players. D-Hall is our best corner.

Everyone still want to talk about Vick, but why he was everyone was on the bandwagon. That man gave his heart on the field. Did the Falcons try to draft lineman. No! The Grady cut was understandably but to say get rid of D-Hall and Alge is crazy. The D-lineman dont even take pressure off of the secondary. We need to regroup. The Vick debacle just showed you how much we depended on Vick. He was the spark that ignited to falcons and this town. And if you say he wasn’t then you would be tellin a lie because we all were glued to the TV screens and going to the games while he was playing because we believed in him.

And now we are tossing him to aside. People are on hear saying we need team unity. We need fan unity. A player makes mistake and you are surpose to stand by their side or teammate side. That dude has went through wars for this club. and we have shown no appreciation for that.

I am ashamed to be a Falcons because of how we have turned our back on the players. This just like when Deion left. And the fans felt like he didnt deserve the money he wanted. all he had done for us, everyone felt like he was a cancer.

By Mark C.

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

Hey guys,

I am telling you if you know what you team is going to look like in the next few years, go back and look at Louisville’s old rosters. The lineman that they just cut where did the guy that replaced him go to school?

Now, I am no fan of the Falcons but with Louisville’s record looking the way it does this year if ya’ll want to give him back we in Louisville will sure take him!! (lol)

By jrod

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

This guy is not jimmy johnson. Please stop comparing the two. And stop blaming vick for the falcon being sorry unless you admit they cant win without him. I am convince most falcon fans are idiots. When has this team ever been over 500. over a five year period beside when vick was the qb. For those who say cut hall and crumpler dont complain next year about there not being enough talent on the team. If not for vick and the arizona cardinal this would be the worst franchise ever. And what quality free agent would play here unless they seriously overpaid him? You people talk about rebuilding lol.. The truth is it is all over but the crying.

By KB

October 26, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

To numbskulls like Charles,

Petrino has to do with what he has. This team was built to fail. D. Hall is a player, but needs to mature. There is a way to handle yourself, but never put your dirty laundry in the public for all to see. Never fight in the media with your team. That is bush league.

Remember sports fans, Petrino doesn’t get rid of players, GMs do. This has Rich McKay’s handwritting all over this. Rich McKay has done a funky job in putting a team together. Maybe he received more credit than he should have during his time with the Bucs. Maybe the Bucs were really put together by Dungy and Kiffin, not him. Mr. Blank needs to start finding a new GM if that is the case.

Sports fans, be realistic. This team has very little talent in the first place. Losing M. Vick just proves that from the beginning. Petrino can only do what he has. It is up to the GM to get true talent that would work in anyone’s system.

By Coach

October 26, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

I hope the Falcons are right in the decision they made about Grady Jackson. Players will interpret that management/coaches are throwing in the towel on the 2007 season. That’s a tough pill to swallow by most players who are and have been playing their butt off on a not very good football team. Player like to feel that the coaches and management are doing everything to win in 2007, because that is the Falcon team they are on. I am sure that the front office knew they were going to lose the locker room, but felt that was a price they were willing to pay, because they saw long term benefits, let’s hope they are right. Losing in pro football is tough enough, but it is even tougher if the players and coaches don’t trust each other. When you are 1-6 even without you star QB, you have to feel like we have been over sold on the Falcon talent level. The individual Falcon does not think he is a 1-6 player and will continue to give his all, if he thinks that the coaches are still on their side. Unfortunately for the fans it will be a play for the pay check and not play to win for the rest of the 2007 season. I will still pull for our players to win, because they have one tough job.

By TOMMY NOBIS

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

D-Hall, what a class act (does anybody remember the Carolina game?). Dump his sorry arsc, he’s all show and no go. Now Alge a player I have really liked goes stupid. So long Crump, thanks for a good job. By the way GREAT JOB RODDY! Just shut up and play big guy.

By Football Genius

October 26, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Trade D Hall to the Bengals and get Chad Johnson, Trade Crump. Make a trade to the Cleveland Browns for Anderson for quarterback. Cleveland is going to have to decide who they want at qb and they’ll def keep Brady Quinn as their franchise qb and Anderson’s value has gone up and he wouldnt be a bad qb with roddy white and chad johnson out in the field. Pick up mcfadden in the draft, who would be an adrian peterson type of back.

By Rebuilding Again?

October 26, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

Give me a break. This is the only franchise that has been rebuilding for 40 yrs.

Mckay had the opportunity to hire Lovie Smith in 2004 (a man he worked with in Tampa) but instead he hires Jim Mora (who didn’t have success in SF as a D coordinator), now he’s hiring his 2nd coach (he’s 1-6 right now).Anyone who knew anything about football (excluding A. Blank) knew McKay benifitted from being with Tony Dungy in Tampa.

Arthur Blank (or Gordon Gekko for you WallStreet afficionados) suckered the fans into $100 season ticket sales now those same tickets are in the $400 range. But yet the product has gotten progressively worse. Now they’re rebuilding again. Wake up people……

By the way, Mike Vick doesn’t draft, hire or fire personnel. There are major holes in every segment of this team (except DL prior to releasing Grady Jackson). OL, RB, QB, WR, LB(not bad except Brooking is mediocre) & DB.

Atlanta, you got what you deserved. Now live with it.

By skippy4

October 26, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

LOL!! Arthur Blank probably hitting the liquor bottle pretty hard these days. He’s going to regret he hired Petrino and kept the GM on board. Petrino is unstable, when the falcons losing season continues next year, Petrino will creep out the side door flirting with the college teams again. Keep your eye open!

By skippy4

October 26, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Petrino is a SNAKE! Don’t trust him Atlanta, you’ll be sorry.

By Jean

October 26, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

The Falcons are a long way from being winners. I’m a season ticketholder and so far this year I’ve given away most of my tickets. I don’t even want to go to the games. I’ve been going to the Falcons games for 17 years and this year has been the most dreadful. I believe they cut Grady due to his lawsuit. The Falcons are not professionals. You should be able to exercise your right without jeopardy. I will continue to buy my tickets because I love football period but I don’t agree with the Falcons owner, coaches or management. They’re not fair-minded.

By DHD

October 26, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

Clean house and give Petrino 3 years. We don’t have a choice at this point.

By Falconeyes

October 26, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

Let’s be for real. It’s easy to assign blame, cut people when your team is doing bad. To the management and staff of the Atlanta Falcons, you seriously need a leadership course that will assist you in effectively leading and impacting the lives of the players on your team. They’re not horses when under performing, need to be sent to the glue factory. They’re people. Michael Vick is going to prison for abuse of Dogs. We treat people with worse respect and contention. Football is war on the field. Show some compassion and relate to your players as people you really care about.

By Wes Studley

October 26, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

I am sick and tired of “rebuilding” with another coach and his plan. After having season tix since 1986, I am glad i let them go. I live in New Orleans, and travel all over the U.S. We are the laughing stock of the NFL by far. Does anyone know the best way to remove my Falcon tatoo!

By March Hare

October 26, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Petrino is, in my opinion, far less tested than Hall or Jackson. They are the ones on the field and in the locker room. They are a much better source for taking account of the team’s health. None of this is to take away anything from Coach Petrino but… for someone who has yet to prove an ounce of value in this league, he sure seems dead set to create a dynasty before he’s even build two wins in a row.

I’m not sold on any of this. You just can’t discard name talent and call it your masterpiece. No sir, NO SALE!

By Mike In Woodstock

October 26, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

I hate to say this but the Booby P era kind of makes you long for the days of Lil’ Jimmy Mora and Gregg Krapp’s style of West Coast Offense.

By Hater-ration

October 26, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

D Hall had an opinion and expressed it. Just like everyone on this blog would do on his/her job if they didnt like something. You people are a bunch of hyprocrites writing all this “mess” about D. Hall when you’re no different. And why do you insist on dragging Mike Vick name thru the mud over and over and over and over and over? Talk about the sorry coach and lack of leadership skills. Mike Vick cellmate should be George Bush—-talk about that! 4K soldiers dead——no comparison to 8-9 dogs…NOW TELL ME WHO NEEDS TO BE IN JAIL….

By childosun

October 26, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

The whole Falcons organization should be “arrested for impersonating a professional football team”. Oh that’s right
…… only in the state of Virginia will that happen.