Sports Columnists

By jerome

December 19, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

Dennis Green be good for Falcons.

By Singletary

December 19, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Yeehaa! Tuna is not coming here because he didn’t want to have McKay in his chain of command. He wanted total control.

That also means we can hire Mike Singletary, who would not have been hired by Parcells. I’m a great believer that with his intensity he can make even mediocre players into a playoff caliber team.

By The Old Goober

December 19, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

I think the very best choice for CEO and GM of the Falcons is none other than Martha Stewart!! She would restore instantaneous law and order in the locker room with her cupcakes and her assortment of munchies and she and Arthur would be great together on TV. And I would bring in Rosie O’Donnell to be the head coach. She most certainly would take control of our band of brothers and their RonMexico-loving costumes. We could continue to make laughing stocks of ourselves throughout the NFL and have a lot more fun in the process. Oh, and I would hire Donald Trump to roam the sidelines as a team “consultant” and advise the players how to build wealth while the game is in progress. Forget about winning, let’s just have a lot of fun while we watch the Falcons players make mistake after mistake after mistake after mistake. It’s all entertainment to watch the Falcons organization from top to bottom as they imitate the Keystone Kops!!!!

By Al

December 19, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Take a breath Arthur. It was easy finding Peyton Manning but not so easy finding Tom Brady or Tony Romo. There are only 32 NFL teams and a few billion people in the world. There certainly are a few qualified candidates.

Deion Sanders, maybe one.

By watchyourback

December 19, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Jeff, you are right. Arthur Blank needs to slow down and really think through who he is hiring and why. You have to wonder if at this point he is even capable of thinking this through and seeking some sound advice. Even he must be questioning his own judgement, or lack thereof.

On an unrelated note, I think you better watch your back. Terence Moore was just on ESPN cackling hysterically like a witch while he threw Arthur Blank under the bus with such vitriol one has to wonder if old Terence isn’t a tad bit anti-semitic. Watch your back.

By AJC BLOWS

December 19, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

Schultz and the rest of the AJC need to take a breath and not rush to opening their mouths. Half the crap they spat out will eventually come up wrong. Remember the Schultz retraction a week or two ago? These AJC writers need to stop watching ESPN for their next headline. Research and report…it’s not that hard. Stop trying to make a news splash by trying to be a Falcon or UGA homer when you can’t get half the stuff correct.

By John

December 19, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Excellent back seat driving. Good, uh…work. I eagerly await your insight on the next Falcons development.

By Will

December 19, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Singletary has no experience & Green couldn’t even get it done in Arizona. We need someone that’s a proven winner with experience. Our last two head coaches had no NFL head coach experience. Zero.

By Drayton Xavier

December 19, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Exactly. Take a chill pill. It has been a bad year, and that will not be changed by a quick (but not well-thought out) announcement. It was a trip to read Parcells in the paper today, already talking about how he was going to hire a new GM for the Falcons. This looks a little nutty now that he’s going to the Dolphins.

By Theo

December 19, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Jesus. Parcells would’ve brought immediate credibility, yes, but he would’ve been gone in two years, leaving a bigger mess than Bobby P. I think that Jeff is right - AB needs to slow down, let the season finish, let the players rest for, I dunno, a day, maybe, and then move on a new GM and Coach in January.

Singletary will still be available to talk to then. No need to hurry. Hurry screwed us last winter…

By Theo

December 19, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Jesus. Parcells would’ve brought immediate credibility, yes, but he would’ve been gone in two years, leaving a bigger mess than Bobby P. I think that Jeff is right - AB needs to slow down, let the season finish, let the players rest for, I dunno, a day, maybe, and then move on a new GM and Coach in January.

Singletary will still be available to talk to then. No need to hurry. Hurry screwed us last winter…

By B.K. Yardigan

December 19, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Parcells coming in and actually sticking to his GM, Parcells and a Quality Head Coach plan was worth Mr. Blank pursuing immediately. It’s not his fault that Parcells’ narcisstic personality disorder ignited and blew up the deal. I applaud him for jumping at that opportunity for the benefit of the team and his fans, and even more so that he slammed the door on this Nutjob before he could have come in and done even more damage! If he didn’t take a shot and the Dolphins announced Parcells’ hiring, we all know Schultz would have written a column about why is Blank taking his time?! I’m betting on Blank!

By Tommy Maddox

December 19, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

Greene? No.

Singletary? No. What has he won?

Dieon? Joke.

Someone with a proven record - not just someone who coached somewhere - yep.

I was wrong. Mr. Blank has all the money in the world and no one wants to come here. What a bummer.

By WHOOAAAHH

December 19, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

why is everyone in love with Singletary….the guy has zero experience. None. If you want a defensive coach w/ a great track record then look at Mike Zimmer’s bio. Please, do some research people before you post this @#$@#$…

By Daniel

December 19, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

parcells used the falcons like he did 21 years ago to get a better deal with the giants and now a better deal with the Dolphins, Parcells likes the dolphins because they have a better chance to turn thier misery around faster then the Falcons, Dolphins have abetter defense and yes, Parcells would love to face his arch rival Bob Kraft and Billicheck. All Mike singletary has done in the Nfl has been being on a very bad Niner team, as a LB coach not even a coordinator, Falcons cannot risk another Dan henning situation, Go safe, the choice must be Coach marty, the former Charger coach, yes his playoff record is dismal, But come on this is the falcons, Who cares about playoff records, we just want to win regular season games, marty’s history says he can do this, I’d go after him right now

By Whopper Dog

December 19, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

Glad the Tuna didn’t come. Here is what you do. Drastic times call for drastic measures. Hire Cowher. Now. Hire him and pay him for 08, but he starts in 09. Give him complete control and with Blank’s resources, you will have a champion in short order and for a long period of time. Hire him now. He needs to have input into the draft in 08, but that is it. Let whomever coach the team in 2008, I don’t care, no way this bunch wins more than four in 07 anyway. Cut ticket prices to fill the stands, have great and mean great promotions and entertainment pre and post game and a half. Sell the game as an event and make it one, and with Cowher coming in 2009, the stands will fill. That will fix it and fix it long term. Create a Bill Veeck atmosphere for 2008 and when your football is good enough to be your product, go back to football. Think about it, not a bad plan vs the alternative.

Whopper Dawg

By paul

December 19, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Here’s the thing we should remember: Arthur Blank is a genius businessman. But it most likely took a few miscues for him to guide Home Depot, but he ended up doing OK there…

Alright, look: he needs to take time, and also to be a little more in the background. They need a stable guy with a reasonable plan. What they don’t need is the “flavor-of-the-month”. I don’t know (or care) what happened to the Parcells deal, but there has to be someone somewhere who wants this job (and the $$ that goes with it)

By Dewayne

December 19, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

How about Marty? Hell he can help Atlanta. I mean he got fired for being 14-2 hahaha, and he did a good job with Cleveland back in road block days of John Elway!! Hell let’s get crazy and get Jerry Glanville, June Jones, or Dick Vermil nothing like seeing a man cry on the side lines hahaha

By Curt in Atlanta

December 19, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Jeff, I must admit that I don’t usually agree with you, but in this case I will make an exception.

Mr. Blank needs to relax, allow the season to come to an end, and then see who is available in the normal merry-go-round that happens as all the teams reshuffle.

He doesn’t need to force the issue at this point. What he needs to do is allow all of the NFL scenarios to unfold, do his homework and then it will work out. What he doesn’t need to do is bring in some old, worn out retreads. This team needs new invigoration and innovation. He needs to think outside the “box” (pun intended).

One of the liabilities concerning our team is it’s terrible history. I imagine that was one of the reasons that Cowher passed. I’ve lived here since 1973, so I know what I’m talking about.

So, Arthur, enjoy the holidays, get rested and refreshed, then you can come out swinging after the Big Game. As an added plus, rethink the level of your participation in the day-to-day operations. When you ran Home Depot, you delegated brilliantly. It wasn’t necessary for you to don an apron and make sure all was going smoothly on aisle 9. You need to do the same with this team.

By Malone

December 19, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Please!…

If Parcells had said yes, everyone would be thrilled. Huizenga threw more money at him. Bad luck. Move on.

By NC_Falconfan

December 19, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

I remember,Hecker(vaguely),Van Brocklin,Cambell,Peppler(remember him?),Bennett(3rd best we ever had),Henning,Campbell(again,because Smith could not get anyone who wanted to coach this team!12 games,sound familiar?),Hanifan(interim…lol),Glanville(great defensive man.(That QB in Green Bay would have NEVER been what he is without Glanville!),Jones(lol),Reeves(had a chance,but this IS the Falcons)Phillips(Wade)Best w/p(@2&1) of any coach for Falcons ever,time will tell in Dallas),Mora(2nd best ever w/p,probably not head coach again, not soon anyways)Petrino ( I agree with Malloy… COWARD,Thomas(interim….?).

In the words of Bill Goldberg… WHO’S NEXT?????

By Dewayne

December 19, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Why would you want Parcells? He can’t even coach his way through a Jenny Craig diet, so he surent couldnt coach the Falcons!!! Deion can’t even tackle, so how could he even show how to do the fundamentals?!?! Cowher wants a job where everything is in place, so he can look good!! Its not the Falcons!! Parcells took Miami, because he can sit on the beach and get fatter with the over payment the Dolphins made for him!!!

By Ima Loser

December 19, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Lets face it-the Falcons are a contagious cancer. Top mgt. picking coaches/players is about as good as the Heisman morons and their picks. Remember a few years ago when Peyton Manning was not chosen? Do you remember who that player was who “won”?Does anyone remember how “that player” turned out in the pros? Do you remember the Heisman morons DID NOT pick McFadden(AZ) this year? Enough said?

By long time falcon

December 19, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Parcels has no credibility as a great front office man. He didn’t build either of the two teams he took to the super bowl. And if he was going to hire a GM and a coach exactly what role was he going to play after he made those two hires? And what GM is going to want to come in and have an overbearing a*******hole like parcels looking over there shoulder every day. I didn’t like this idea and I’m glad the deal fell thru. I would be willing to bet that there will be disharmony in Miami in the near future between Parcels and whom ever he decides to hire. My advice to blank is to hire ron wolf as a consultant to help him in the search for a new GM. Once a good GM is on board then let him hire the coach.

By bill

December 19, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

LEAVE AUTHER BLANK ALONE. HE’S THE ONLY ONE THAT CAN TURN THIS TEAM AROUND. IT WON’T BE T MOORE OR JEFF SCHULTZ OR ANY OF THE MEDIA. AUTHER BLANK IS DOING EVERYTHING HE CAN SO GIVE HIM A BREAK. IT’S HIS MONEY. TO HECK WITH PARCELLS. BLANK NEEDS TO GET SOMEONE WHO WILL CLEAN HOUSE, AND GET RID OF ALL THE DEAD WEIGHT, STARTING WITH HALL DUNN AND CRUMPBLER AND HORN. GIVE BLANK TIME HE WILL CLEAN IT UP.

By Mike

December 19, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Schultz, you prove time and time again what a moron you are. Parcells almost went to Miami less than a month ago. The only thing that stopped him was his belief that there would be new owners down there by next season. The assurance from Huizenga that he wasn’t selling the team is the only thing that got Parcells to turn down Atlanta. This was a great attempt at a bold move by Blank. Give the man credit for trying. This team needs a personnel guy before it needs a coach, Parcells was and is the #1 man in the business. Not going after him would have been bad business.

By Navigator

December 19, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Although I have no proof, the big Tuna changed his mind after talking to Blank, and went to Miami. I really think that what Blank said affected the decision. Things like: We need a certain kind of QB, we need big mouth defensive backs that regularly get burned on deep routes, we want to appease all special interest groups in the state, and oh yeah play football too!

By BIRD WATCHER

December 19, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

ARTIE NEEDS TO HIRE HIMSELF HAS COACH. SINCE NO COACH COULD WIN WITH THIS ROSTER ,IT DOESN’T MATTER WHO COACHES. THEN THE ORGAN GRINDER CAN DO HIS OWN TEAM PRAYER; STAND ON THE SIDELINES LOOKING BRILLIANT AND EVERY TIME THE BIG BIRD SQUIRTS A TURD, HE CAN FLY AROUND THE FIELD LIKE A CLOWN. ERGO, HE CAN BE OWNER, COACH AND MASCOT AND SAVE A PILE OF GREEN DOING IT! SORT OF A THREE STOOGES IN ONE SET UP. PERFECT!

By dr soul

December 19, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

I think Blank has proven his ineptness at this job of ‘ownership’manager..he does not have Bernie covering for him anymore…he needs to get a committee of REAL football people together to advise and lead him through the maze of, for one time in the entire franchise, putting a real management team in place, then find him a seat far up in the corner of the stands, shut up and become invisible…his moves have not been very professional nor approached very smartly…he needs to get the ego off the table and try and be smart… facts speak louder than words, Arthur…find someone who really knows football AND management and give them the reins to find you a staff..and stay out of their way..

By Dan

December 19, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Will the Smiths buy the Falcons again? At least Rankin got us the the Superbowl with a great coach. Of course Arthur fired Dan Reeves because he wanted a young energized Home Depot Manager like Mora JR. Blank is the cancer. That’s why Parcells didn’t want to come here. He already worked for Jerry Jones. Why would he want another situation like that?

By Tom The Terrible

December 19, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Since no one of good reputation will coach this bunch of misfits, let them coach each other…

By John

December 19, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

I was all for Parcells since day 1, but I’m glad he is not coming now, especially if he was never going to coach. We need that “proven” coach/GM to be the same person, for now anyway. Marty Schottenheimer would be the only “proven” one left to choose from. Who else is really left? Arthur really messed up letting Dan Reeves go. I would go and tell him that personally, and beg him for a second chance to right the ship.

By Fatalbert

December 19, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank needs to kick back and relax for the holidays….then call Marty Schottenhiemer on Jan. 2.

By Chrono

December 19, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

You’re wrong, Jeff. Blank needs to make a big splash, and fast. The fans and the team need something to give them hope and to put this season behind us. The longer the Falcons’ ship goes without a rudder, the worse things get. A big name like Parcells would have had this town talking all through the off-season, but in a good way. It was a great idea, and if it had gone through we’d all be excited. Instead, its just another instance of Blank/Falcons organization looking like a smacked a$$. Every hire is a gamble, but Blank keeps coming up empty.

By GTME87

December 19, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

All Atlanta Falcons fans should be proud that Mr. Blank is at least trying to get the best available/most proven. Keep on trying and you will get it right. Sooner or later our luck will turn as long as we have an owner that wants to do the right thing.

By Jack Sheet

December 19, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Bill Parcells is a “failed human being”.

We just dodged a bullet.

Showing his true (lack of) character he just used Blank to jack up his Miami offer.

Please Arthur hire someone who will be loyal to you and the team not to their ego!

By Lou

December 19, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Jeff, I detect a little bit of Jelousy in your article. I have never been a fan of the Tuna, however all I have seen is success where ever he has been, Giants, Jets, Patriots and the Boys. He knows how to put teams together. You make him sound like he is not worth it. If Blank had landed him your tune would be different. Lou

By BIRDY

December 19, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

PLEASE FORGET DAN REEVES. HE HAS A GOOD SEASON ONCE EVERY TEN YEARS. I KNOW THAT WOULD BE A HUGE IMPROVEMENT FOR THIS SORDID FRANCHISE BUT WE CAN DO BETTER. MOREOVER HIS DRAFT RECORD IS ABYSMAL. JAMMI GERMAN ANYONE? MARTY IS SHOT [NO PUN HERE]. LET’S AIM HIGHER OR SHIP THIS WRECK OUT OF HERE.

By big fabric softena'

December 19, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

Okee Dokee d******* read this learn this love this…Prime Time new coach after all if he can build a house he can build a team M.C. Hammer is G.M. Hammer can’t touch ‘em Team Pastor Eugene Robinson move hq back to falcon complex President of Operations Jerry Glanville follow my advice and we will be 2legit2quit hey hey no need to thank me I got pm phd in genius

By Chrono

December 19, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

You’re wrong, Jeff. Blank needs to make a big splash, and fast. The fans and the team need something to give them hope and to put this season behind us. The longer the Falcons’ ship goes without a rudder, the worse things get. A big name like Parcells would have had this town talking all through the off-season, but in a good way. It was a great idea, and if it had gone through we’d all be excited. Instead, its just another instance of Blank/Falcons organization looking like a smacked a$$. Every hire is a gamble, but Blank keeps coming up empty.

By Falcon consultant

December 19, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

O.K. here is what arthur blank needs to do. Team up floyd reese as GM and marty shottenheimer as coach to get this sorry franchise on track. Reese has a proven track record as a very good and underrated GM. Did you know that he had 3 rookie of the year picks in 11 seasons as GM of the titans. From 1999-2006, reese was 3rd in the NFL in draft choices that remained playing in the league. The guy is solid and would love to get back in the game. And marty shottenheimer has made every team he’s coached a perennial playoff participant. I know people will gripe about his playoff record but hell we need to get there before we get to cocky. I would rather be b*** about playoff failures every year than this crap we have going on right now. These two moves might not be as flashy as cowher or parcels but they would get us to the playoffs. Take my advice Blank and make those two phone calls and this franchise will be on it’s way to respectibilty.

By George Holman

December 19, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

No one credible is going to work for Blank as long as he micro manages EVERYTHING….and I mean EVERYTHING. Get of the sideline Arthur, bring in some real professionals, and LET THEM DO THEIR JOBS WITHOUT YOUR INTERFERENCE.

I would not want to work in any environment where the owner is omni-present and ever second guessing.

By Murray

December 19, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Blank is a control freak…maybe his wife should coach the team…

By Murray

December 19, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Blank is a control freak…maybe his wife should coach the team…

By War Eagle

December 19, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Mr Blank get your wallet out and call Coach Mike at Seattle, invite him as a Atlanta resident and bring some of those Auburn players(5) with him.

By Orlando Rivera

December 19, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

No coach worth his salt will want to fix this mess unless he has a serious God complex. I appreciate Blank for giving his best to make a big splash, but you could have Parcells, Lombardi and Tom Landry on the sidelines and it still doesn’t matter if you don’t put together the right talent on the field.

The problem is that Atlanta is now a wasteland for anyone in the NFL. That said, it’s probably best to make Hue Jackson the coach and have him put together an offense in the draft. No reputable person like a Mike Singletary type will want to come here, so Atlanta will need to get seriously lucky and hope whomever they draft will develop into a team.

Hire a low level personnel guy to become GM. The players will come together if you bring in an offense that everyone will want to play in.

Seriously Blank, stay under the radar for a while. For the past 3 years the Falcons have become a national joke not to be taken seriously.

Whomever wants to be GM of this operation should just draft offensive players to set up Jackson’s offense and begin to weed out those veterans who don’t want to be here. Live with a couple of 5-11 seasons and by 2010 make a serious effort to bring in some coach with talent.

Just stay off the radar for now Blank. Thanks.

By Jolt of Reality

December 19, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

If Arthur Blank is not careful, the Betrayno debacle will pale by comparison to the next one. Get it right, not quick.

By Harry Osbourne

December 19, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Mr. Blank……………..The answer to all of this mess is………………………

RUSS GRIMM

By jerome

December 19, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Johnson

By Murray

December 19, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

It’s sickening to hear a billionaire whine…get somebody who can hire the right person to coach this team…or get out of this business.

By Gene

December 19, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Part of the problem is, Arthur Blank wants to be loved and respected by players like George Halas was, and that is not going to happen. What he has now are a bunch of whiners who want to exercise freedom of speech on national television when they should be concentrating on the game. I think Parcells realized that Blank would be sticking his fingers into things he knows nothing about. Terrell Owens ran Parcells out of football with his me, me, me, complex. Parcells would get more of the same in Atlanta. Blank is not going to get any established coach to come to Atlanta anytime soon, but someone better get control. What we have now are the inmates running the asylum.

By Murray

December 19, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

It’s sickening to hear a billionaire whine…get somebody who can hire the right person to coach this team…or get out of this business.

By dawgsarejokes

December 19, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Let’s review, the coach left because he couldn’t stand the insubordination of his players, you can’t find a general manager and you can’t find a coach…any chance that the fact of the matter is nobody wants anything to do with these sorry losers who put forth no effort during a game running around with their free Mike Vick shirts and 7’s under their eyes who have the false hope that this Con Vick is somehow going to rejoin the team and take them to their glory land, these same morons that run around on a football field on Sundays looking like the Keystone Cops????????? Get Real Atlanta, clean out the locker room of your Fat Crumplers, Shodddy Whites, and Me Only Halls and Hornless Horns and get some real football players in here then maybe you will be able to find someone who will be willing to come to this nasty house and clean it up.

By dirty byrd

December 19, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

the thing that i think we falcons fans see is mr blank getting played over and over by everyone he has trusted so what will stop this bad cycle for this owner what will it take to have a person not use the falcons to make there real agenda better who is the real deal who can blank trust to build this team from top to bottom he will give them any thing they want to do the task at hand but the question still remains who is the real deal? it is a great story yet to be written on the rebirth of a nfl team or not, best drama in nfl who will step up and take this major task on only brave need to apply whats in your wallet happy holidays to all fans u know who u are god bless this team and mr blank!!!!! apply at atlanta falcons .com attn A BLANK

By Drexel Gal

December 19, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

I agree. The falcons need someone who has shown stability by staying with one team for a long time. My suggestion: Connie Mack.

By PimpC

December 19, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

One think Arthur Blank is doing is making an ESPN star out of Terrence Moore, and Terrence is making a national joke out of Arthur Blank and the City of Atlanta. Moore has done more to inflame racial tensions in the city than the Grand Wizard back in the 60’s, and now Arthur Blank has provided him with a national soap box.

By George P. Burdell

December 19, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Is it my imagination, or does Virginia Tech seem to breed thugs and selfish players?

By Chris Mortenson

December 19, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Jeff,

Do you get all your column material from my radio reports? Get off your a** and get your own subject matter

By WHO CARES

December 19, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Maybe P. Diddy or Snoop Dog could lead this bunch of thugs!

By mj

December 19, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Sometimes when you try to push the needle it sticks you instead of the recipient. Things happen for a reason! Certainly Parcells brings instant creditability, but so would others. I think Arthur is on the right page with his business thoughts; he needs just to find the correct fit to make things happen. A good director of football operations will make the right choice on GM and coach. Have faith and patients and we might just get it right.

By Idjitboy

December 19, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Two Thoughts on Today’s Events:

Arthur Blank is a FOOL.

The Atlanta Falcons are a moribund franchise with NO prospects for future success.

By Lawrence

December 19, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

Would someone please wake me from this nightmare? When I awaken, please GOD let it be Marty Schottenheimer!?!

We the people have had enough of this p***-footing around, Blank is right to go for real coaches with egos the size of texas!

Arthur do the damn thang and get the dirty birds a real damn coach, so we can get some real ball players, that like to play hard nose football and grand it down others throat from week to week!

By Larry

December 19, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

NO RUSH TO JUDGMENT HERE:

ARTHUR BLANK HAS BEEN EXPOSED (YET AGAIN) FOR A COMPLETE AND TOTAL FOOL.

By Please Mr. Blank

December 19, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Please do research on Singletary! He might look good in the role but what has he really accomplised -coaching wise? The defense for SAN Fran. is not good. Our defense has been bad at times but thats because sometimes they are playing entire game. We need someone who is innovative with the offense. I think A.Blank should contact Floyd Reese. He was very good with small mkt Titans. Or someone in the Colts -maybe find out how their owner built them. A.Blank needs to seek advise from teams/owners that win every year. (EXCEPT JERRY JONES cause he is a liar)to u Mr.BLANK! Deion? - costume designer.

By Henry M

December 19, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Scott Pioli!

Get a good GM and then let him get a good coach.

Anything else is rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic!

By Rob in Gville

December 19, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Can we please now just call this the CURSE OF VICK!! The curse will last and the falcons will suck badly for the next 23 months or Petrino moves to a new job.

By boots

December 19, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

It would have been a disaster of monumental proportion if Parcell had been hired as EVP of Football Operations. He’s too fractious, irratable, grouchy and domineering.

What coach in his right mind would want to have “The Tuna” looking over his shoulder and pitching tantrums when things didn’t go the way he wanted?

I agree. Take a chill pill and wait until after the holidays to start the search. After 40 years of waiting, we can wait a few weeks longer.

By Falcon Fan 101

December 19, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Jeff is right about Blank slowing down on his rush to pick somebody/anybody. Arthur has to remind himself that he just provides the money, and should dial up the number of the Great Professional Football Think Tank Consultants for guidance, and let them guide him on his selections. And this time, Arthur, please check their past track records and personnel files.

By mj

December 19, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

Arthritic paper writers stir up stink. Which the AJC has plenty! No facts, no insight, just money takers of the Cox family. What do they have to lose? Take your millions and play the hand, business owners will get back to the basics and make something happen! Patients for the newbie (Mr. Blank), he will be a winner. Regardless of the embarrassment of the moment, principals and professionalism with prevail. Bouyah AJC!!

By JSS

December 19, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

You people are idiots!!! First, you say like the NO TALENT HACK Jeff Schultz did two weeks ago to run off fast and hire a Cowher or Parcells type, then when reality sets in, you bash the man for actually trying to please you!

As for Floyd Reese, this proves that Atlanta fans are the most unaware in all of sports… That man tried to run Jeff Fisher out of Tennessee… He tried to Schottienhemer him!!!

Look, the Niners defense spend 40% more time on the field than other teams in the league defending a short field because of the inept offense… Doesn’t that sound familiar? Start watching the games for goodness sake, we actually them, REMEMBER?

By Keno

December 19, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

Parcells is a loser. Schultz would do a better job. How about O’Leary? It’s got to be someone tough. Then get someone who has a clue to be the brains of the organization, ie., GM. Some of you people are really funny. You want a sports writer to wait to write something (AJC Blows)? Don’t shoot the messenger. Just write your comments about the situation and leave the judgment on Schultz to God. After all, it is Christmastime.

By faraway

December 19, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

I say bring in June Jones and Jerry Glanville

By Keno

December 19, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Thank you JSS. If you don’t mind, I’ll watch what I want to and be as informed as I feel like and make my comments to pi$$ you off. Get over it! A “No Talent Hack,” is Jeff. What are your great qualifications for passing judgment? I think the AJC owners can make a better call than you. Go back to reading the Tallapoosa Times for your sportsnews if you don’t like it.

By David Duke

December 19, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

A line from Casablanca seems appropriate here: “Round up the usual suspects.” Parcells, Schottenheimer, Singletary and whomever else has been around a long time and has been found incompetent enough to get on the coaching carousel. This franchise is cursed by the devil of mismanagement. Just move it to Los Angeles.

By Keno

December 20, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

Do the next coach a favor and get rid of the losers who want to publicly demonstrate their weird affection for a dog torturer/killer. What is wrong with these people? Get rid of them!

By tenneseetitanfan

December 20, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Floyd Reese? LOL Go ahead and get Floyd if you want to be in salary cap hell for the next 8 years.

By faraway

December 20, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

Arthur Blank should change his name to Shooting Blanks.

Blank for Vick. Blank for Petrino. Blank for Parcells. Blank for 2008.

Time to let someone else do the real job of managing an NFL team.

By Ken Stallings

December 20, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

The AJC sports columnists are turning into a collection of contrarians. They say one thing and then criticize the action they opinionated for once carried out!

There is nothing wrong with interviewing a good candidate. It is not a failure when that person declines the position.

Blank did precisely what it seems so many urged him to do. He contacted Bill Cowher. Cowher declined saying he would not return to coaching until no earlier than 2009.

He interviewed a very interested Bill Parcells and it was only because Miami sweetened their offer that Parcells ultimately declined. It’s business.

The situation with the Falcons is concerning enough without the AJC columnists creating bad news to add to actual bad news.

In terms of slowing down, it would be a good idea for the AJC staff to “chill out” themselves. I suggest a 72 hour self-imposed moratorium on writing any columns on the Falcons.

What’s that I hear? Oh yeah, the AJC columnists expressing outrage that I comment on their profession. I guess it’s easier to give than to receive unwanted advice!

By abisae

December 20, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

If I saw A. Blank coming towards me, I’d run as fast as I could—THE OTHER DIRECTION. Why would a Hall Of Famer ever stoop so low as the Falsecons????? Certainly, he knows better.

By bigeasy830

December 20, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

DEAR ARTHUR BLANK

HIRE THE PRESIDENT OF PETA SINCE YOU DID ALL YOU COULD TO APPEASE THEM. I TOLD YOU PEOPLE IN JULY, PROFESSIONAL SPORTS IS ABOUT WINNING, THAT IS THE BOTTOM LINE. I ASKED THE QUESTION THEN, DO YOU WANT A TEAM THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF BECASE IT WINS, OR YOUR SO CALLED GOOD CHARECTER TEAM THAT LOSES, THAT YOU CLAIM THAT YOU COULD BE PROUD OF AND HAVE YOUR “KIDS LOOK UP TO” BECAUSE YOU ARE TO LAZY TO RAISE YOUR OWN KIDS. FOOTBALL IS A GLADIATOR SPORT, THIS IS NOT HOME DEPOT SO I DO NOT CARE HOW MUCH YOU ALL CLAIM THAT BLANK IS A GREAT BUSINESS MAN. HE CAN NOT SURVIVE IN THAT ARENA CALLED THE NFL. HE HAS NO CHARECTER HE SETTLED THAT SEXUAL HARRASMENT LAW SUITE AND HE LIED TO THE FANS SO THEY WOULD BUY THOSE SEASON TICKETS AND HE KNEW HE WAS GOING TO THROW VICK UNDER THE BUS, DON’T GET IT TWISTED VICK DID IT TO HIMSELF, BUT BLANK LIED TO THE FANS. HE GETS WHAT HE DESERVES AND TRUST ME NO FREE AGENT WORTH A NICKLE WILL SIGN WITH THE FALCONS AFTER THE WAY THEY TREATED GRADY JACKSON.

P.S. YOU SHOULD HAVE NEVER FIRED DAN REEVES, AND TO D. HALL, M. VICK, HALF THE CINN. BENGALS, PACMAN JONES, THOSE IDIOTS IN THE NBA THAT CANNOT STAY OUT OF THE STRIP CLUBS MAKING IT RAIN ON A WOMAN THAT DO NOT GIVE A DAMN ABOUT THEM INSTEAD OF TRUELY HELPING OUT THE COMMUNITY NEEDLES TO SAY YOUR OWN FAMILY AND THEN BE BROKE IF YOU DO NOT GET A PAY CHECK FROM THE LEAGUE AFTER MAKING MILLIONS…… THEY SHOULD HAVE NEVER GAVE YOU N%%A MONEY.

PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST

By J

December 20, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

Aurthur I have faith in u and so should everyone else in this city. Aurther probably cares more about this team than anyone and he will get it rite people so chill. I’m keeping my season tix.

By 4cryingoutloud

December 20, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

This is not a personnel issue, it’s the return of the Curse. (I won’t say which one for fear that naming it will give it power). I’d say bring a Priest in with Holy Water and have done with it; but that’s politically incorrect. Get a group effort going: Priest, Rabbi (Orthodox and Reformed), New Ager, and Snake Handler from the piney woods. Springle, chant, smoke things up, commune…do it all. Then, go take on the day.

By GeorgiaYankeesFan

December 20, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Mark my words in 4 years the Dolphins will be playing in the AFC Championship Game thanks to Bill. Where will the Falcons be? Who wants this job? Ugh!!!

By Chris

December 20, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Good points, Jeff. Be willing to think outside the box and shop around for talent evaluators. Heck, I would love to be a scout if that warrants anything.

By Russ

December 20, 2007 2:03 AM | Link to this

Everyone say’s it was good that they didn’t hire Parcell’s. The truth is that if Parcell’s was hired everyone would have said “Great Hire”. It may be due to money, but it also could be that in Parcell’s mind, he thinks that the Dolphins (even though they barely won 1 game) have a better upside than the Falcons. The Dolphins have been down for 4-5 years, but look at there history compared to the Falcons: You think of the Dolphins, you think of 1)The undeafeated season (granted it was YEARS AGO and the Patriots will probably get one this season also. 2) The Dolphins have 7 Hall of Famers, the Falcons have one (Tommy Nobis, may be in) or none. 3)The Dolphins (even with the past 4-5 years of not making the playoffs and this current embarrasment of a season) have the most victories in the NFL for the past 30 years. They had a stretch of making the playoffs 26 times out of 30 seasons from 1970-2000. THE FALCONS HAVEN’T HAD TWO WINNING SEASONS IN A ROW IN 42 YEARS!! The truth is that the Dolphins have a more prestigous, stronger and deeper history.They are more relevent in the NFL landscape. It will be hard for Mr. Blank to get a decorated NFL guy in here. He may have to find a “diamond in the rough”. He will also need to lay back a little. Get less face time on the sidelines AND LET THE COACH, COACH!! A good choice may be Jason Garrett (OC at Dallas), but he too has a lack of coaching experience. Marty S. may be the best choice.

By ASIA

December 20, 2007 2:19 AM | Link to this

I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU FOLKS DON’T SEE THIS COMING….HELLOOOOOOO, BILL PARCELLS AND CURTIS MARTIN…YOU GUYS, OPEN YOUR EYES!!!

By Scott

December 20, 2007 2:23 AM | Link to this

Jeff, If we all had your understanding, your intelect, your insight, your knowledge of the game of football and of sports in general…We would all be morons!

By scott plomgren

December 20, 2007 2:35 AM | Link to this

when did you become a coons fan? im not sure you understand. pls suggest, or ask terrance, to suggest, in your both almighty journy wisdom,,,,,who is our coach?????

By Buzz

December 20, 2007 2:41 AM | Link to this

Thank you Arthur Blank for what you are trying to do. Sometimes things just don’t work out but I applaude you for trying. Keep trying and hopefully this time it will work. As a lifetime Atlanta Falcons fan from the beginning in 1966, I pulled for the Rankin Smith family and I will continue to pull for you.

As for you AJC reporters, please stop the vitriol and pull together with US true blue fans. WE want a good football team in the Falcons but WE as fans need to be a TEAM too. Let’s ALL get behind Arthur and give OUR support. GO FALCONS ! ! ! GO ARTHUR ! ! ! GO ATLANTA ! ! !

This has been a bad year for sure but it WILL get better.

By the Truth

December 20, 2007 3:12 AM | Link to this

First off …….who wants to move to a town with no water to drink,than get taxed to death on top of it. The only goober you will get to hire for your next coach is Ajax Babaloochee

By bennie

December 20, 2007 3:19 AM | Link to this

In 1966, the Falcon’s won 1 game, and my father took me to that game. He died a year and a half later and the Falcon’s have done the same ever since… Who really thinks that anyone with an ounce of self-respect wants to take over this mess??? The owner is true to his investment, but too meddlesome… The so-called play-makers incur fines for their support of “an idiot”, yet they can’t run,catch,block,or do anything that warrants a paycheck. A complete overhaul is due but where does it start? I think we need to go low profile and hope to correct this gradually… The critics say that Jason Garrett will be a coach someday… Why not now??? The Falcon’s need a rebirth and a coach to grow with… Chill out Arthur- this isn’t Home Depot. We’ll support you to the end but you need to return the favor!!!BFH

By jc_dawg

December 20, 2007 3:22 AM | Link to this

M Shottenheimer?

By jc_dawg

December 20, 2007 3:31 AM | Link to this

M Shottenheimer……

21 seasons as a head coach.

Only 2 losing seasons in those 21 years.

He has a 61% winning percentage of reg season games. That is nearly a 10-6 record every season?

Yes his playoff record is his downside. But would it not be nice to make the playoffs?

Bring him home, Blank!

By Pacquer

December 20, 2007 4:53 AM | Link to this

Two years ago my Packers hardly made a ripple, hiring a no-name GM and a little-known coach. Last time I checked, the team seems to be progressing quite nicely.

ps: I nominate Jessica Simpson for Splash Coach of the Falcons

By falconmaniac

December 20, 2007 5:50 AM | Link to this

Blank needs to fire Rich McKay first and get this incompetent out of the organization totally (president of the falcons? what a joke). Bring in top, established NFL people with a long-term plan) and get rid of all these attitude / thug type players on the team.

By DR

December 20, 2007 6:02 AM | Link to this

Bring on Marty and Dan Reeves. Together, they can turn this sucker around.

Atlanta sports writers don’t write anything until you have intelligent alternatives.

It appears AJC sports writers are the ones that needs to take a breadth, they making crap up as they go along.

T Moore with his crap yesterday and J Shultz with his crap today. Geeeeeezzzzzz!

By Mama Bella

December 20, 2007 6:03 AM | Link to this

Blank is a total control freak…ask anyone who has worked with him. He’s not what you think he is. He is not loyal. This is why these people are fleeing from him…not because they don’t want the coaching job. Any NFL owner who controls what is said in a prayers is a jerk. Even Jerry Jones wouldn’t do that!

By Mama Bella

December 20, 2007 6:03 AM | Link to this

Blank is a total control freak…ask anyone who has worked with him. He’s not what you think he is. He is not loyal. This is why these people are fleeing from him…not because they don’t want the coaching job. Any NFL owner who controls what is said in a prayers is a jerk. Even Jerry Jones wouldn’t do that!

By Mama Bella

December 20, 2007 6:04 AM | Link to this

Blank is a total control freak…ask anyone who has worked with him. He’s not what you think he is. He is not loyal. This is why these people are fleeing from him…not because they don’t want the coaching job. Any NFL owner who controls what is said in a prayer is a jerk. Even Jerry Jones wouldn’t do that!

By Dumbing Down

December 20, 2007 6:24 AM | Link to this

A Snake-bitten organization.

Get rid of the “THUG LIFERS” and guys like Parcells might sign on!

What a bunch of BUFFOONS!

I’m going to enjoy hockey more and more! This THUG LIFE crap is too much.

The NFL is now NBA lite!

By Dickey

December 20, 2007 6:25 AM | Link to this

One word

Embarrassing!

By Myrtle Beach

December 20, 2007 6:31 AM | Link to this

I can not stop laughing at “The Old Goober” i think i’m going to have a heart attack! I’ve loved the Falcons since Bob Berry but “The Old Goober” is exactly right!

By Bill H

December 20, 2007 6:36 AM | Link to this

Slow down my a$$!! Full speed ahead. Blank is doing exactly what he should do to bring in the best available personnel to give the front office an enema. If McKay stays, it’s a travesty. He personally brought in Mora and Petrino. Enough said, get a Parcells or someone with a track record. Don’t wait like Mr. Schmultz suggest in his pitiful article.

By Adam Burke

December 20, 2007 6:36 AM | Link to this

Marty Schottenheimer is the answer for goodness sake. 2 seasons and we will be in the playoffs every year. He’s bound to get lucky win a Super Bowl eventually.

Hire Dennis Greene if you want 8-8, or Dave Wonstadt if you want 8-8, or Norv Turner give it time they will be 8-8.

By scott

December 20, 2007 6:36 AM | Link to this

Singletary? No experience even as a coordinator. Green, give me a break after the Arizona job. You have got to look at Marty, who has the best record out there. You have to look at Martz, who has calmed down since being fired at St Louis. Say what you will but Coughlin is in his last year and is doing a good job in NY. Call Russ Grimm in Arizona.

By JPeta

December 20, 2007 6:55 AM | Link to this

The funniest part of this whole episode is how this town’s losers blamed Terrance Moore for telling the truth about Bill Parcells. They remind me of all the PETA losers who walk around with bags of dog poop in plastic bags.

By Pearly

December 20, 2007 7:10 AM | Link to this

The Falcons are the laughing joke of the NFL.

By JSS

December 20, 2007 7:21 AM | Link to this

Keno…

Love you in those GA Lottery commercials!!! I hope you and Jeffy Pooh enjoy your weekend in Helen…

I think TennesseeTitanfan said it all!

Felix Navidad de tu idioca ;-)

By Shaun Davis

December 20, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

Arthur dismiss Rich all together; he has distroyed the team, moral OF THE TEAM AND FANS, along with you. WHERE WOULD YOU BE WITHOUT THE FANS??? Slow Down!!! Hire Dan Reeves as General Manager and someone else as executive vice president. Allow those two to make the decisions for the team. NO MORE COLLEGE COACHES!! GOD DOESN’T LIKE UGLY; YOU HAVEN’T SEEN ANYTHING YET!!!

By Shaun Davis

December 20, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

Arthur dismiss Rich all together; he has distroyed the team, moral OF THE TEAM AND FANS, along with you. WHERE WOULD YOU BE WITHOUT THE FANS??? Slow Down!!! Hire Dan Reeves as General Manager and someone else as executive vice president. Allow those two to make the decisions for the team. NO MORE COLLEGE COACHES!! GOD DOESN’T LIKE UGLY; YOU HAVEN’T SEEN ANYTHING YET!!!

By luckydog

December 20, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this

Give Blank some credit: He has achieved the impossible by making the Smiths look good.

Like my daddy always said, fools are always funnier when they’re wearing expensive suits….

By Shaun Davis

December 20, 2007 7:33 AM | Link to this

As A season ticket holder, Arthur hire PETA and all the other animal rights organizations to coach. They coached you and Rich MCKay through everything else. Have them in formation with their signs about loving their dogs, call plays, and turn the pit bulls a loose and watch them score!!! Next, stand in the mirror and take re-examine yourself; why do your employees lie to you?? Are you bullying them??

By Big Ed

December 20, 2007 7:33 AM | Link to this

Jeff,

You may be a good columnist but you would be lousy at running your own business. A. Blank is doing exactly what he should be doing. His business is bleeding and needs surgery now. Not in a week or month, it’s now. Say what you want about his hands on approach with the players and being too close to the action. Right now he’s showing us what made him a successfull business man. Go get em Arthur.

By 3volpaul

December 20, 2007 7:36 AM | Link to this

Arthur, sell the team for more than you paid for it and quietly dream of retail again.The Falcon’s organization is a mop bucket turned over.

What you have is a mess that can’t hardly be cleaned up. Good luck.

By mj

December 20, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this

Hey, take a shot at Jimmy Johnson! The Cowboys were a much more talented team under Johnson than that of Parcells. He’s been involved in the NFL for some time and would get the same reacted respect that Parcells would bring. He would be great to run the football operation. Probably could hire him cheaper and hes a better talent evaluator.

By Bubba, Lower Forty

December 20, 2007 7:55 AM | Link to this

Hi y’all!! I don’t know who we p** off but I’m SORRY!!!!!!!

By kuykendall

December 20, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this

The perfect choice: Phil Fulmer, the Tennessee coach. He’s a winner, he’s a big name and he rules the State of Georgia. Season ticket sales would skyrocket, players would quiver and then quake in anticipation of his arrival. The dude would personally destroy the myth that college coaches can’t make it in the NFL. Be a man, Mr. Blank, and hire the round man from Knoxville.

By WestSider

December 20, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

Reading these comments is a good study of human nature. When things get bad everyone starts pointing fingers saying “off with his head”…first it was Reeves, then Mora, then Petrino, then McKay, and now Blank. I’m sure that 80-90% of the people saying “bring back Dan Reeves” are the same ones who said “fire Dan Reeves” a few short years ago.

The Atlanta Falcons are a business…and not a very successful one because the issues that keep them from becoming successful are the same ones that keep the City itself from becoming successful…namely that we are hopelessly divided along lines of race and class. The fans here are not invested in this team…nor will they ever be. Everyone in the country knows that Atlanta is a second-rate city (sorry it’s true…I was born here, and have lived here all my life and for the record I love my home), but we are not a world class city. We are a land-locked, traffic and crime infested city that has somehow become known as the ‘Ghetto Capital’…and with good reason.

All this being said, I’m not surprised that big name talent does not want to come here…no one should be surprised. As far as revenue goes, we are at the bottom. We have a terrible deal with the pathetic Georgia Dome that will keep us locked into that atrocious facility for some time to come. We have a bunch of players that do have some talent, but whose bravado at being in the center of hip-hoppin’ ATL is keeping them from performing as professionals (you know who I am talking about). The game day experience is horrible. So who in their right mind would want to come deal with this mess?

By ellijaydawg

December 20, 2007 8:13 AM | Link to this

Take a deep breath, then call Marty Schottenheimer.

By kevin

December 20, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this

My two main issues with this situation are as follows. Arthur needs to move quickly and find his “guy” before the season ends and there are more teams looking for their “guys”. Supply and demand.
As for Parcells and Petrino .. don’t let the door hit you in butt on the way out. One of the qualities of true leadership is stability and neither of these Bozos cared enough to stay at any job long term. Both took advantage of Arthur Blank (used him) for their own personal gain. Arthur, quit trusting these overpaid high profile, low IQ, primadonas. Quite frankly, there are no good “brand name” candidates available right now. Think retail! You had success with Home Depot because you created something new. Do the same now. Think outside the box and go in a direction that’s fresh and appealing. Don’t hire any retreads. Hire someone who will have your same desire have a commitment to longevity. The answer, my fried … might be just up the road in Athens. With his demeanor, ability to judge talent, to delegate, to motivate and his relationship with his players, Mark Richt would make a perfect head coach for the Falcons (and you know he’d be there for the long run). Think out side the box Arthur and find the best man for the job.

By Chris

December 20, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

Facing reality is an unpleasant task. I am encouraged by the owner going after some of the best in their business, however, I really did not see Mr. Parcells taking a role here. It is going to take good old fashioned work to turn around this professional football team. I have followed the Falcons since we moved to Atlanta in 1969. I still remember when the Falcons upset the Fran Tarkington led Vikings on a Monday night football game, preventing them making the playoffs. I beleive the team had a losing record that year as well. My Dad and I celebrated that for a week.

With the salaries these “professional” athletes are making per game, I believe their performance is worth a pay cut. How about 1000.00 fines per mistake in a game - Penalties, dropped passes, fumbles, missed blocks/tackles, etc. It would be a beginning. In two games this season, a personal foul created a momentum swing for the opposition, which affected the final score. The coaching staff continued to play the player. Hire performers with character at the coaching level and the playing level, then get to work.

By GE

December 20, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

Jeff is absolutely right on this one. Why do the Falcons need credibility? They need wins. Credibility comes with wins and not a big fat egotistic Tuna who dies his hair.

I am not the smartest football mind as witnessed by my presence on this blog. However, it appears to me that Blank is more concerned about his personna than the success of the Falcons. The man is full of himself. Why else would he push MV around in a wheel chair on the sidelines for TV? If he does not reduce is profile, the Falcons will never win. I believe that Petrino saw this as well and got out of town. The players will never come out and say so because Blank pays them well and treats them even better. Maybe that is why they do not play with heart. They need to play instead of talking so much in defense of their poor performance.

The Falcons need a GM and coach who have total control. I have been very vocal in my support for MV and the team in general as if that means anything. However, it may be time to clean house of those players who are not earning their pay. Frankly, I have not watched the Falcons enough to know who they are. I do know that if you get beat 37 to 3 and have only 5 first downs, then , there are many players not doing their job. I intend to watch the next two games to see who wants to play. Hopefully, someone in the Falcons management is doing the same.

By bull-gator

December 20, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

For consideration: 1) change the uniforms, team colors, and logo (it certainly helped the TB Bucs). 2) hire a professional NFL GM/head coach that is a no nonsense motivator that is in it for the long haul (maybe Dan Reeves has a young clone somewhere). 3) Keep the owner in the sky box where he belongs. The only reason J. Jones at Dallas roams the sidelines is because he’s a former college player (national championship at Arkansas) and an ego maniac. Blank is neither of these. 4) stop the rap music in the dome. 5) build the team starting with the offensive and defensive lines. It all starts there. If you cannot control the line of scrimmage, then you are doomed to be an 8-8 team or probably worse. No amount of skill level talent can overcome a sorry line.

By carl wolerski

December 20, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

How the “h…” did Artie ever make Home Depot so successful? Thank goodness Uncle Bernie was the brains behind the Big Orange. You picked great coattails to ride on Awtha!

Stick to raising your grandson….ehhh…son…

By Rob

December 20, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

Hey, Arthur, I hear Saban’s looking for job.

By FS!

December 20, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

The mark of Cain is upon this team of miscreants, thugs and unlovable losers! Now, the much ballyhooed current GM, who is now vilified by you dolts, is going to be leaving town. What a mess and its only going to get worse! Who in their right mind would come to this town and this team for anything? Get over it loserville, your team is roadkill!

By ATLien

December 20, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

I like Dennis Green for the Falcons…

By Gordon

December 20, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Quite frankly I’m sick and tired of all of crap that comes out of the falcons. I say get rid of at least half of the starters. Especially the ones that think it is cute to display support for the confessed dog killer instead of playing football. The whole crowd is a disgrace to the state. And if Blank does not get his head on stright, run him out of town too. I would rather have no team than the one we have now.

By Falcons Folly

December 20, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

Slow down to do it right - yes. Sit back and wait for the right guy to go to some other franchise in need - absolutely not.

First, the GM/Coach combo rarely works. Hire a proven coach - Marty Schottenheimer is there and waiting. Go get him this week.

Second, hire a proven talent evaluator. Floyd Reece may be that guy. If that person (Reece)is not so good at managing money, keep Rich McKay to manage salary cap. The one man show with Parcells was a future disaster waiting to happen. Do it right but there is no need to sit back while some other team wraps-up the talent that is out there.

By Bob from Winder

December 20, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

Although I have no proof, the big Tuna changed his mind after talking to Blank, and went to Miami. I really think that what Blank said affected the decision. Things like: We need a certain kind of QB, we need big mouth defensive backs that regularly get burned on deep routes, we want to appease all special interest groups in the state, and oh yeah play football too!

you are correct, if AB would not bring in these thuggish black players we would not be in this position. I wiss he would bring in more mainstream christian white males into the orginazation. who cares if we win or not atleast we will look respectable
Blank must be scared of Jesse and Al comind down on him if he doest not have a black QB or coach..geeez when will it stop?

By Ross

December 20, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

I swear to God that if I hear someone else mention Deion Sanders as a head coach I am going to hurt myself. Seriously, what has he ever done to make you think he’d be a good head coach?

By Pete

December 20, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

Above all, Arthur Blank needs to find solitude and visit a church. Any church. That’s the only place one will find answers in this upside down, foolish world. Radical to think this ? Look at Arthur’s world and ask how “his way” is working.

By they stink

December 20, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

damn thats f*cked up i guess we wukk stink after all

By Coach

December 20, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

The Falcons probably made a mistake when they let Dan Reeves go. That in my opinion is one of those decisions, where the statistical probably is you can’t replace him with somebody better and it is likely you will replace him, no matter how hard you try with somebody less effective. Michael Vick never played as well for Jim Mora as he did for Dan Reeves. Dan put Mike in an offense which maximized his physical skills, where Jim put him in the West coast offense which required quick drops, quick decision and put him in a less advantageous position if forced to pull the ball down and run. Who is out there who has proven he would be an improvement? Marty Shotteheimer, I coached against Marty and unless he has lost his fire, he will out coach 75% of his competition. His teams were always disciplined, ready every Sunday to give a good effort and he and his staff gave his players a good plan. Does anybody who studies football think the Chargers are near as well coached this year as they were last year? They are a much more talented football team than the Falcons and should clearly be a play off team, but they have lost that week and week out habit of high performance which was characteristic of a Marty Shotteheimer football team. Coaching football is such an insecure business, the really good and experience coach is going to want almost total control, he knows it is tough to overcome bad drafts and poor free agent decisions, if he is going to go down with the ship he wants it to be the result of his decision rather than be at the mercy of somebody else poor personnel decisions. Success from the next coach is never guaranteed, but the coach who demands control is more likely to succeed than the one who is willing to put his future success in the hands of others.

By GE

December 20, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

I have a question for someone who might know. Why was Marty Schottenheimer fired after going 14 and 2 and why is he not coaching somewhere? Did he have a issue with the fans or ownership after losing to New England? Why did he leave Kansas City? Watch the NFL films of him on the side lines. He is a control freak also. The Falcons do not need any more ego maniacs. They need a good coach and players with some heart.

By Mike

December 20, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

Hey Mr. Blank, As you can see, everyone of us Falcon Fans are frustrated, angry, and disgusted in not having a winning football team. Most are lashing out at you in frustration. Don’t take it personally. We thank you for being here and not the Smith family. At least we know you will right this ship. Hang in there, and bring in the best!

By Falcon fan 89

December 20, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

Can someone please fill me in as to why he is called “Big Tuna.” The only thing I can think of when I hear that name is….geez…he must stink!

By Al Sharptongue

December 20, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

I hope the falcons do not hire a black coach. The crackas here will only want to criticize him and demean him at every chance. Bring in a white coach /qb/db/te and another wr to go with finneran when he gets back. Atleast then the white people will be happy..They consider all blackmen thugs anyway.Yall lost the civil war and still cant get over it. Some friend of MV still have love for him as a man and white trash gets upset. know what f*** yall, you dont run s** bu your mouths. Crumpler or Hall have never been arrested yet they are thugs because MV was their friend. sick demented white people get upset when blacks dont do what they want them to do, slavery is over you dirty trailerpark POS. I hope all the brothers that have a choice leave this team due to the crap they have to take from the Dirty southern white male AB is a good man but when you have a fanbase that sees color over everything else you cant win. Crackas wanted Vick gone since he got here, so as soon as he F’ed up they could not wait to call him thug,uneducated,ghetto,miscreant. Yet you same DOGS will exscuse the Behavior of Rush Limbaugh,Scooter Libby,Larry Craig etc. are they thugs,miscreants etc? I think not. D. Hall has been a probowl player for the falcons but once you found out he drove a Lamborghini and then he supported his friend MV he became a thug and loudmouth..Insecure dirty honkeys are fearful of Strong Black men with opinions 40 years ago you could use fear and lynch mobs to intimidate people, stop people from living in certan areas or working at different places. you could burn crosses and lynch n**** with impunity, and now that you cant express your savage wicked ways anymore you get upset and try to claim reverse racism..white men are losers who need an unfair advantage to get ahead, thats why their women will slepp with any race of man:BLACK,ASIAN,ARAB,HISPANIC BECAUSE WHITE MEN ARE INSECURE LOW SELF ESTEEM HAVING PEOPLE

By ATL BABY

December 20, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

i still think Mike Singletary is our man, Jimmy Johnson would be a good GM as well, if our city would pull together we could clean this mess up, some people talk about how they want to see the Falcons turn it around, yet never attend a game or you never see them in Falcons shirts or hats, if you like them support them if not don;t be a fan an pull for someone else..

By Rick

December 20, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Take the Holiday off Artie. We real fans are still here. You are the ultimate fan!! We stil Love you man. Cowler, Parcells, Petrino, Vick even Moron Jr. will regret kicking you in the face.

By brownthrasher

December 20, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

You Shultz and the AJC needs to find some new paragraphs for your story. You are wearing “Michael Vick” lied inthe ground. THe man is doing his time, give him a break. He didn’t destroy this team, it was a collective effort. Remember, it was you who said that this NOT a one man team but apparantly this season proves otherwise. You question Vick’s integrity, where’s yours. You flip flop just like the Tuna does so you need to take a break from bashing Vick and find some other stories that we don’t already know about.

By Chris

December 20, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

How does one who co-founded Home Depot and did quite well with it not able to find his way with an NFL team?

I’m all ears of AB still needs a G.M., V.P. of Football Operations (or whatever fancy title) and wants to hire a diamond in the rough. Given my lack of experience (LOL), I won’t exactly be able to command a million dollar salary, but 100K would be nice.

By sb

December 20, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Fix the Falcons Arthur:

Hire an offensive mind that isn’t a flight risk like Petrino - Jason Garrett from Dallas or Mike Martz from Detroit.

Keep Zimmer as Def Coordinator.

Draft McFadden if we get #2 pick, he is a sure thing.

Draft a QB in the second round (2nd round QB is just as likely to succeed, and doesn’ waste a top pick if he doesn’t succeed).

Use every other draft pick on Offensive Linemen.

By Hambone

December 20, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

It’s been five years. The break is over. If time is taken, the best will be gone. Take a break??? Yea, let Mr. Blank take his time like the Hawks have…boy, that’s showing progress.

By Bleu_Bayou

December 20, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Hire Dan Reeves President of Football Operations- Hire Marty Schot as coach and whatever GM those two feel they both can work with and be done with it.

By Scooter

December 20, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Heres the news flash - The Goatse offers up some useful analysis for a change sprinkled with some humor that doesn’t fall flat.

Great quotes by Crump too by the way. Old Goober - lol. That was classic

By JD

December 20, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

Al Sharpetongue…YOU GO BOY!

By Brezina

December 20, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

I liked the earlier suggestion that Tennessee’s coach be hired. He’d make Abe Gibron look like Tom Landry.

By The Murf

December 20, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

I get so sick and tired of you AJC.com beat writers. Its always negativity. Blank is doing what he thinks he needs to do to revive this team. JEFF SCHULTZ: MOVE TO CANADA WHERE YOU BELONG!!!!

By SoCal Guy

December 20, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

Good gawd. Is Atlanta tired of being kicked in the stones yet? There are bad years and there are bad years, but seldom do you see a perfect storm implosion like that. Kinda makes it seem okay for Los Angeles to NOT have an NFL team.

By No_Time_To_Relax

December 20, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

I dont think Blank has time to slow down. You have to look at it from the perspective that this season is over. You have to do something that will bring a spark back to the dome. You need someone with credibility and respectability. You need a VP in there, a new GM, evaluate coaching prospects before everyone else, hire a coach before everyone else, evaluate player personnel, get a basic team outline together, release and sign players, and scout and prep for the draft, and all this before the other bottom of the barrel teams get going. If you dont want Atlantans giving up on your team, like they did the Hawks, and possibly the Braves, you need to turn this ship around fast. Cause the Falcons are going down quicker than the Titanic.

Parcells wouldn’t havent been my ideal candidate anyway. First he never stays in a place for too long, just like Petrino. Secondly, there isnt a single player on the Falcons roster that fits his 80’s style of play. That why he chose Miami, it would be an easier flip than Atlanta, plain and simple. You need someone young, credible, and who could use some of our current roster as a blueprint… it may sound dumb but Steve Young’s name popped in my head. He’s young, has credibility amongst his peers, and played in a west coast offense that mirrors the Falcons personnel.

By SoCal Guy

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

Good gawd. Is Atlanta tired of being kicked in the stones yet? There are bad years and there are bad years, but seldom do you see a perfect storm implosion like that. Kinda makes it seem okay for Los Angeles to NOT have an NFL team.

By jrod

December 20, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

I absolutely agree with Al Sharptongue,

Definition of thug seems to be now any black person i dont like for any reason. Alge Crumpler is not a thug. Roddy White is not a thug. They have never been in trouble. How come those MLB players arent considered thugs when they are getting illegal drugs.

By Vince

December 20, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

42 years 42 years. Have we not been having the same conversation for 42 years?

By scott

December 20, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

ajc bloger need to write thier own colums i seen most of this already on espn, it would do you ajc writers good to slow down think about what your writing blank is doing what he should be doing felling the presure of putting a quality product on the feild the nfl is about money blank have shown he will spend $$$ .give the man a break i think all of us want to see something good happen for the falcons

By scott

December 20, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

ps i second what (al sharptongue) had to say about you redneck idoits on this blog, stop blaming vick

By yonizzle

December 20, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Art needs to get on his knees and beg Dan Reeves to come back as the Falcons GM. I think he would be commited to the job for the long haul and talk some football sense to Art when he tries to make irrational move( Coach Petrino,Coach Mora, GM Mckay, WR Price,Parcell) Get a Dan!!!!!!! he has been around the game as player and coach for toooo long..he can rescue the falcons

By Amused

December 20, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Well said AJCBLOWS - yesterday these pages were filled with comlumns and articles lauding the arrival of the Big Tuna. Today, they are filled with critical reviews based on the Tuna’s track record of taking the bait and spitting the hook, leaving his jilted lovers at the alter. Where were all of these insights yesterday you ask? This is rear view mirror 20/20 hindsight journalism at its worst. With the possible exception of Terence Moore, who from the beginning has pointed out that the Blank/McKay duo bears ultimate responsibility here, these other bozos do nothing other than regurgitate ESPN. As for Blank & Co, they were disingenuous in their claims of betrayal by MV. Both the NFL and Blank have enough security to know that MV was a dope smoking thug. When half the people on the party circuit in ATL know, they cant pretend ignorance. They just chose to look the other way b/c he sold tickets and merchandise. They used MV. Well now it is welcome to the big leagues for them - Petrino, Parcells…they are playing Arthur like a violin. Schultz is right about one thing, Blank is paniced and desperate and making bad decisions as a result. He needs to take the family to the South Pacific for the holidays - get out of town, chill out and sort his thoughts through. Otherwise this circus continues and he makes some other McKay/Mora/Petrino like mistake.

By Viva Las Vegas

December 20, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Is Las Vegas still interested in a football team??? If so, lets send the whole lot of em out west, wait on a shot for the next expansion team, and start over with a clean slate. If not, I like the notion of Reeves as VP, not too crazy about Marty-ball here in Atlanta, but I think we do need an offensive minded coach, rather than going back one that’s defensive. I would cut any player thats been with the team for at least 5 years, hoping to rid the clubhouse of that defeatist attitude and rid the team of all the over the hill, overpaid, pompous, ex-pro bowlers.

By Ryder

December 20, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

I bet part of the reason Parcells backed off and went to Miami was simple: He saw Atlanta for what it really is, an apathetic and racist fan base who can’t let go of the past. All this talk about Vick and you guys sound like bitter ex-boyfriends who screwed up with the hot girl and spend the rest of your lives crying for the “good old days”.

Here’s an answer from Chris Mortensen that says it best. I’ll speak it in a way that you Georgia folks can understand:

SOMETIMES THE SEXIEST PICK ISN’T THE BEST PICK.

This organization needs people who are stable-minded, patient, and is willing to build with a solid foundation, not on one player.

Be thankful that you have an owner that is willing to go for it, as Mort said last night. People around the league know that he cares and wants to win badly. Has he made some mistakes? Yes he has, but this team has also had great success as the box office and most importantly name recognition. As I said before Cowher nor Parcells will be patient enough to see this through. I dont’ know who is at this point, but it’s best to bring in someone who has a plan and has CHARACTER about them.

All this won’t matter if they don’t do well in the draft. One thing’s for sure though, it’s going to be some offseason in Atlanta!

By Dave

December 20, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Blank is as big a jerk as Parcells. If he would have left McKay alone you would have still had Mora as a coach. His intereference was what made Mora unhappy in Atlanta. Who hired Petrino? Not McKay. Who started talking the the jerk Parcells? Not McKay. Who is the problem? The stupid owner who can’t leave football operations to people that know what they are doing.

By luckydog

December 20, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Chris asked: “How does one who co-founded Home Depot and did quite well with it not able to find his way with an NFL team?”

Easy, you ride Bernie Marcus’s coattails is how. The dirty secret about Blank is that he was always no. 2 at Depot for a reason. The board had to bring in outsiders shortly after Marcus stepped down. Bernie was the brains. Blank can schmooze and keep a few store managers in line, but he’s not all that bright. After he got booted, the Falcons became a vanity project for him and his trophy wife. He thought he had a merchandising sure-thing with Vick — a black superathlete who could build a bi-racial fan base AND win. But he bet too many of his chips on one horse, and as we’re now seeing he lacks the management vision or skill to fix his blunder.

By doctor

December 20, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Running a pro football team is not, it seems, the same as running a hardware store.

By Falcon fan 89

December 20, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

The more I think about it, his is a no-brainer. Schottenheimer=instant credibility and stability…maybe even a beter move than Cowher. Also, if at all possible to pry away Pioli from NE to be the personnel guy, that would rule!

By Rock Troy

December 20, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

See Jim Trotter’s column today at SI.com. As I’ve said before, Jim points out that Blank IS the problem. A jock-sniffing newbie owner with no clue what he is doing. Until he is out of the picture, the Falcons will continue to lose. Period.

By Falcon fan 89

December 20, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

With Schotty, we’re a 10+ win team within 2-3 years. Sure, he may not have won a Superbowl, and many see him as a playoff choke artist, but he’d fit right in here in Atl with Bobby and the boys with the tomahawks across their chests.

nah seriously….if AB wants to improve this franchise and make them a winner, just think about it….what franchises have been more consistently succesful than the 90’s chiefs under Marty or the Chargers of the last 5 years?! Both teams were on MNF every other night and competing for the SB every stinkin’ year! I’ll take that right about now!

heck, the great Cowher hasn’t exactly been Bill Belichek and Tom Brady in the playoffs! Let’s go for freakin respectability and stability for once in our franchise’s history!!!

By jerry jones

December 20, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Hey Al Sharptongue, You and all your hube thugs. If you would quit robbing banks and having illegitimate kids and get jobs other than crack dealers you may have room to talk.
Otherwise just go eat a rib and STFU.

By Billy Gleaton

December 20, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Jeff Tell, Arthur Blank, we know he along with his staff, the players and all the fans have been in a storm. Just don’t forget to look for the rainbow! Billyg

By shaun

December 20, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Give it up. The Falcons have never been good (save for one fluke season in the 90s) and never will be good. This franchise is cursed. Drop the sport Falcons.

By A FAN

December 20, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Aww…jerry jones..you must have hung out in the “METH LAB” a little too long, lol….I am sure they miss that “purdy mouf”…back on the mountain…So sorry to break it to you but us “thugs” and illegitimate kids arent going anywhere......matter of fact our hip hop culture seems to be EVERYWHERE.....so you should STFU and grab a rib too....cause we aint going ANYWHERE! LOL, LOL….

By Tom Brady

December 20, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Bill Parcells was too old to understand todays athletes…why do you think the Cowboys are doing so well now! Dan Reeves, and Marty were cool for another age of athlete and football…its time to get someone younger! To all these idiots shouting to rid the roster of Hall, Crumpler, Dunn, etc.....dont really know football, replace them with WHO? from what draft picks? Most of these idiot posters have never played an organized sport in their lives, yet have such sound ideas….RIGHT!!

By Al Sharptongue

December 20, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

By jerry jones

December 20, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Hey Al Sharptongue, You and all your hube thugs. If you would quit robbing banks and having illegitimate kids and get jobs other than crack dealers you may have room to talk. Otherwise just go eat a rib and STFU.

Typical southern white male reply, lot of racist talk but not much in the way of facts. just good ole boy rhetoric

December 20, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

See Jim Trotter’s column today at SI.com. As I’ve said before, Jim points out that Blank IS the problem. A jock-sniffing newbie owner with no clue what he is doing. Until he is out of the picture, the Falcons will continue to lose. Period.

AB is no different than any other owner. Daniel Synder has not won anything in Washington, and the Bidwills in Ariz have been horrible since my younger days in St Louis. at least the falcons went to a nfc championship game 3 years ago and were in playoff contention for most of the last 2 years. hardly a losing record compared to others Most people can care less who the owner is nless he is some penny pincher who will not pay the players or staff. AB liked Vick and MV f*** up this year. You cant fault AB for the actions of others he is not a mind reader. S** happens Tom Brady was a 6th round pick which means every team but one picked over him atleast 5 times, yet ryan leaf was first round and back then it was widely debated that he was better than Manning. Bottom line is you cant predict the future. AB catches alot of flack because of M Vick that was his star player, but the redneck fanbase hated that + he fired another southern cracker in Dan Reeves so yall look at him like a carpetbaggin Yankee. AB might as well be a Nagger as far a Bubba is concerned In reference to the THUG issue what about NASCAR drivers? when they get upset about being wrecked they will remain on the track to flip the bird or throw a helmet at the guy who wrecked him. Last season one guy tripped his rival girlfriend in the Pits, Cracka fans throw s** at Jeff Gordon and Jimmy Johnson because they are from Cali and not from inbred NC or something. Yet you will never hear the word THUG or uneducated or miscreant involved, why? The Busch brothers are always in some off the track stuff and you never hear a disparaging word..Stop your hypocrisy insecure WHITEMAN

By OpinionsAreLike

December 20, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

West Sider’s post was worth reading. I’ve been following this team since 1980 and even after I left. The real problem here is me. I’m an idiot for coming back to this site and reading these posts. Following this team is like looking in the toilet after you take a crap. You know what you are going to see. It never changes and never will. The team is crap because the city is crap. This makes no sense and I can only say following the falcons is some sort of mental illness. A bad habit I plan on breaking next year.

By Mark

December 20, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

I hate to say it, but Blank is just p** in the wind right now. I may be wrong, but it really feels like he is just lost with what to do. Hiring Parcells would have been a good thing, but I don’t believe Blank and he would have got along long term. I think the only real answer right now is Schottenheimer. Singletary is nice, but does not have much experience, and none as a coordinator. They need someone who has turned a franchise around and knows how to win. Yeah, you hear about Marty’s playoff record, but the fact is he gets the most out of his players and has a proven track record of winning. And you do things HIS way or you are out, and they need this right now. Marty is the guy. But I agree with Jeff also, Blank needs to relax and do the right thing here. Take a deep breath Artie, will ya? The fan base is tired of hearing from you.

By john

December 20, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

As usual, Shultz missed the point. Parcells took the best deal. That’s what anyone would do. Blank got out bid. Maybe he really doesn’t have the chips to play in this game. Why do the sports media in this crappy sports town always try to steer the blame away from the owners? All the owners in this town have had every chance that any other owner has had but its always the fault of a coach, player, gm, jinx, bad luck, etc.

By The Colonel

December 20, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Dear Mr. Blank,

I want to send my sincere thanks for sticking by this team through these tough times.  I have been a Falcon loyalist since I can remember and can tell you that I have never seen a team go through the on-the-field/off-the-field turmoil as this team has.  The strength and character of your actions have not gone unnoticed by the Falcon faithful and we hope that you continue with the resilience and pride that you have exhibited.

So, now the rest of this message is devoted to the team—for in the total scheme of things that is why as a fan I am driven to write this letter.  In this time of strife we must look at our team, evaluate the needs and move forward toward the ultimate goal that is winning.  As simple and obvious as this sounds, this season has proven that even the most mundane of equations can go horribly awry with the wrong numbers.

First, what is most lacking in the team right now?  The answer is the will to win, the attitude to succeed further then their abilities, and the belief that they can overcome.  I am not saying the team quit, they are grown men and have lives to support but the principle of determination has been lost in this team.  So, how do we build then, for we are starting from scratch, like it or not?  The easy answer is finding an able Head Coach, a leader of men and a forceful presence.  We tried the first two picks that seemed the most practical and rational with Bill Cowher and Bill Parcells, and well, we see how that worked out.  So the next pick, at least from this fan’s standpoint is Mike Singletary.  I know, I know another guy from an adequate 49er’s defense, another defense-minded coach for a horrible offensive team.  Just listen for one moment.  

Mr. Singletary, though I only know from what I have watched over the years from on the field and on the sidelines, has got the character we have been missing in this team for some time.  The laissez-faire days of Jim Mora were only demoralizing the attributes that were built up during Dan Reeves, who might I add took us to the Super Bowl with the strength of his convictions.  The intensity and pride Mr. Singletary brings to the organization is something, as fans that will be refreshing for once, since watching our players (players we have loved since their inception) give teams the game with their mouths instead of their actions.  Honestly, the defensive side of the ball has some promise with our linebackers, corners, and Anderson will come around with a little tutelage from the right hand.  That hand of course would belong to Mr. Singletary.  Give him what he wants, steal him from the 49ers if you have to, but Mike Singletary should be the guy.

Second, moving forward in organization is always the most dicey of situations, but as stated before, this season has proven that tried-and-true methods can roll back on you.  So, in the interest of the fans and management and taking into consideration what players we do have, let’s take a leap forward instead of one measly step.  How about that spread offense, huh?  New England Patriots have shown us that it can work with the right scheme, and since we are starting with basically a blank state, why not try this fandangilicous offense?  Urban Meyer and Rich Rodriguez have shown sparks of ingenuity with the style of play (as much as it pains me to say that being a part of the Georgia Bulldog Nation) and Indy has run a similar set up for years.  I’m sure there is a very willing and dependable offensive coordinator out there right now that knows the spread offense as well as anyone.  Hell, go right up the road to App. State and see if the towel boy knows anything about 5 wide sets and hot routes.  Find anybody and everybody that knows the offense and I’m sure that candidate will arise.  With Jerious Norwood and Roddy White coming into their own, Joe Horn’s leadership, a pick up in free agency for a REAL slot receiver, and the most vital component of them all—a healthy first round pick for a quarterback for the future spread offense(say, Andre Woodson, maybe)—the possibilities of this offense could get rather interesting.  

Of course, this scenario is different and unique but the image is also the last vital part this team needs.  The image has changed for the worse for the Falcons, maybe a hold over from the Jerry Glanville days, whatever it is, IT IS NOT GOOD.  So change the face, bring respect back to the Dome and the fans that support Our Team will come back.  And if all else fails, hopefully with that spread offense we’ll at least score some points.

Go Falcons!

Sincerely,

A Concerned Fan

By Why listen to AJC Sport?

December 20, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Ajc is as clueless as is Mr. blank. They dogged out most star. They should have dont this or that. What has AJC done for this city nothing but seprate the city. This one reason no one with a brain would come to a city where the city main news paper throws the city the players the owners the fans under the bus. You as a news paper in 2008 you need to change your ways for the better. People read all the hate you push and the blogs push. we want a winner in this town and you at AJC is part of the problem. we need to be more up beat not down beat and hate!

By Enough

December 20, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

It is so oveblown its not that serious. The Falcons have never been taken serious anyhow and the Dan Henning Era was worse than this. It is just a built in excuse for a poor scouting and a shotty GM. Mike Vick was expected to win with this same lot of characters and did a respectable job all things considered. The media over hyped that thing until the Feds stepped in ala Barry Bonds and sent another Black guy to jail. Good thing Roger C. ain’t a black guy. Oh well, hire some old retread good ole boy, restore order in the south and clamour to a fan base that doesn’t exist. Atlanta is all about winning, no blind loyalty to losers. Honestly a few better play calls at the start of the season and a place kicker and the Falcons are a respectable 6 to 7 win team this year. Not as dire as it seems just some poor first round draft choices, poor coaching picks and neglecting the offensive line during the Vick era. Honestly, draft an left tackle, get a quicker MLB, get the big RB Snellings some work, use Norwood the way Bush is used and for crying out loud get a Kicker and the Falcons will win the sorry NFC south next year. You don’t need a big name coach, just a guy who knows football. Get all this Louisville crap out of here and hold guys accountable. Oh yeah, get a QB to hold the mantle until MV7 gets back in 2010. McNabb could be that guy! Him alone will get you 3 to 4 more wins. Its not as bad as the media is making t to be, its just what the real fans always knew, Vick was way more valuable than the media gave him credit for!

By In midst of Idiots

December 21, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

i get tired of these craker mf’ers bes talkin they stuff when they aint nuthin. We is gonna break MV out of prison and start a dog obedience school. Falcoons needs Arthur to sell them to Spike Lee and get Jesse to be coach. Then we will play rap all during the games (oh wait, they already do that)