ajcsportstalk

By falcfan1

October 26, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

i blame the officials and the front office for not cutting adam jennings. They seriously need to cut him, he is one of the worst punt returners in the league.

By Token Gringo

October 26, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

NO, the replay showed that Jennings did NOT touch the ball! The final two minutes should be replayed with a competent officiating crew.
Goodell should fine the officials in the game and fire them immediately. What good is replay if you allow a blown call to cost a team a game?

By OF COURSE

October 26, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Of course, definetley did not touch but of course the refs had to make the call before looking at the video boards to make the call. HASTE MAKES WASTE WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT THAT WAS. Were 4-3 and we are right in the thick of things, lets beat up on Oakland and get back on track! GO FALCONS!

By JM

October 26, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Clearly, instant replay needs to change.

By leerf

October 26, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Wow, that was a horrible call. Just having scored a td on the long drive and stopping the eagles on a 3 and out, this had to happen. We had all the momentum in the world and got completely screwed over by the refs. Seems this is happening way more this season than ever. The Falcons sure played hard though.

By terry

October 26, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

That was one of the worst calls of many bad calls this year!One would think w/ instant replay and challenges this wouldn’t keep happening.They should make every play reviewable!

By Jay4

October 26, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

This Officiating crew should be severely disciplined for an obviously “muffed” call. These knuckleheads should be suspended without pay and fined!

By me

October 26, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS!!!!!! They should have checked to make sure the call was right on their own… Is that allowed???? The Refs totally blew the call. 2:50 Left with Atlanta on their 40 yard line. One last opportunity for Matt. Damn Shame!!

By distraught

October 26, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

OF COURSE, YOUR AN NFL OFFICIAL MAKE THE RIGHT CALL. Matt Ryan lead the Falcons from the 20 yd line for a td and would have done it again. Even with a min left he was still moving the ball. Time Management would have not been a problem we would have had the ball at midfield and scored no question in my mind. I move on though, lets beat Oakland next week and get ready for a Crucial Home Stretch! GO FALCONS 4-3 RIGHT IN THE THICK OF THINGS

By markfromga

October 26, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

This game was stole from us!!!!

By Traver

October 26, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

SCREWED! COMPLETELY SCREWED by the officials. The defense steps up for a change and it all gets taken away because lazy a* official is out of position to make a good call. We still have to score in that situation but that was horrible. I wonder how much they had riding on the game. Absolutely terrible.

Five words for Jennings GET AWAY FROM THE BALL IDIOT.

You set up Johnny Referee to screw up the call.

By lawton

October 26, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

NOTICE HOW THE PLAYERS DIDNT SEEM TO CARE, THEY SHAKING HANDS AND GIVING OUT HUGS WITH THE EAGLE PLAYERS AFTER THE GAME. STOP WORRYING ABOUT THESE CLOWNS, THEY DONT WORRY ABOUT YOU.

By Screwed in Philly

October 26, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

What a horrible call! I won’t say it cost the Falcons the game, but it would have been nice to see what Ryan could have done with 2:30 left in the game and good field position. They might as well do away with instant replay if these type of calls cannot be reviewed. Also, what an idiot the Fox announcer is. He said that Coach Smith should have kept at least one timeout to be able to challenge. I guess he was supposed use ESP and know the refs were going to make a horrendous call.

By refstinks

October 26, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

College football does replay the right way. The NFL does it the wrong way—go figure

By Dan

October 26, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

The referees should be aware of the situation and know that by ruling that it is Atlanta’s ball nothing bad can come of the situation.

If you rule he didn’t touch it, Philly can review and we’d find out for certain what the right call was. As it was, the referees, and not the players ultimately decided the final outcome of the game.

The NFL is a funny sport, Philly outplayed Atlanta today, but the Falcons should have had an opportunity to steal a win the way Chicago did in Atlanta two weeks ago and they were stripped of that by an inept officiating crew. The NFL should be embarrassed by their zebras once again.

By Jay4

October 26, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

This Officiating crew should be severely disciplined for an obviously “muffed” call. These knuckleheads should be suspended without pay and fined!

By Josh

October 26, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I’ve never seen a refs call more directly responsible for a team losing a game. The Falcons had a chance to score a TD with a very managable 60 yards to go with around 2 minutes to go. They should issue a statement tomorrow that they seriously screwed up on that play and should be suspended. At the very least they should have simply called it no fumble so the Eagles could challenge and clearly see that it was not a fumble. We have our biggest screw job of the year right there!

By stupid zebras

October 26, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

wow…terrible officiating at the tech game, and now this crap from the falcons? is there a vendetta on atlanta sports teams? at least call that he did not touch it so philly could challenge, but no, go do the worst call possible when he was SIX INCHES away from the ball. matty ice would have driven us down the field and won the game, but the zebras had to take it away. if goodell is so concerned about cleaning up the league, it is time to fire the refs or introduce the college replay system. we should be 5-2 and first in the nfc south.

By gobirds42

October 26, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

still shaking my head……

By Keith

October 26, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

No NFL rules would change because of this…the NFL has shown that rule changes only occur if a play alters who gets int he playoffs or the outcome of a playoff game. Terrible call.

By FalconTech fan

October 26, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

what a terrible weekend for atl football.

By Just Get It Right

October 26, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

We’ll never really know if it actually cost the Falcons the game, but it surely cost them a chance to pull it out in the final 2 minutes. I understand that the rules state that the call is ‘not reviewable’ unless it is challenged (Falcons couldn’t) or if there is less than 2 minutes in the game (it wasn’t). But the League should look into giving some discretion to the Crew Chief to allow for a review if the call in question has a direct impact on the final outcome of the game……which this call definitely did!

By Traver

October 26, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

I had 6 words for Jennings not 5. I am so angry I lost count.

By jim

October 26, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

How many games are the officials gonna miss a late call? The game changing calls that effect outcomes of games this year have been huge already. Just ask San Diego. The league has to look closely at what happened to Atlanta on that last series. Sure the Eagles outplayed Atlanta and this will sound like sour grapes to most people, but the fact remains the officials blew the call and any chance Atlanta had of winning the game. The officials were slow spotting the ball at the end which caused Atlanta to call their last time out. The Atlanta success story is good for football! Too bad we couldn’t get a last minute pass at end like the Bartkowski days. Way to battle Falcons!

By kay

October 26, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Yeah, that was a rael UGLY call.We finally get 3 and out on time and we get screwed by an out of postion ref.O man that was a ugly call

By mrk

October 26, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Dumb, Dumb, Dumb, … the nfl or as we know it the NO FUN LEAGE is an awful. From officiating, to drugs, steroids to teams that couldn’t even when in the SEC.

By True Falcon

October 26, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Yeah, the ref blew it, but what about blowing 1st and goal from the 2?

By Chamblee Dawg

October 26, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

even though the Birds got ABSOLUTELY SCREWED…… the Falcons MUST CUT ADAM JENNINGS

How this guy still has a job is beyond me. why is he even in the vicinity of the ball. he is the worst punt returner I have ever seen. Time and time again, he drops punts, dances around and gets a 1 yard return. Please, Dimitroff, CUT ADAM JENNINGS!!!

By mrk

October 26, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Dumb, Dumb, Dumb, … the nfl or as we know it the NO FUN LEAGE is an awful. From officiating, to drugs, steroids to teams that couldn’t even win in the SEC.

By CTFalconfan

October 26, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Don’t blame the ref - our Coaches cost us this game!!!! Don’t throw a jump ball on the goal line - STUPID!!!! And don’t call your LAST TO with more than 2 min left in the game, again, STUPID!!!! Poor job by Mike Smith…

By DL

October 26, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Those M’fers cost us the f’ing game! what a mickey mouse officiating crew!

By DL

October 26, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Those M’fers cost us the f’ing game! what a mickey mouse officiating crew!

By Michael5410

October 26, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Using the last timeout to save 0:22 seconds was a HUGE mistake imo, and as it turns out, in more ways than one…

By BBfalcon

October 26, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Smith choked by calling the last TO way too late. Then Jennings (who will be cut) gave referee a chance to blow it. Rule#1 of being a punt returner - catch all punts, fair catch or not We’ve proved we’re not quite smart enough.

By ATFF

October 26, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

One call doesn’t make or break a game. Give A. Jennings & K. Brooking pink slips tomorrow. Give Snelling a raise and more playing time. Give Roddy props for being a total team player. Give J. Anderson his due for knocking the poop out of McNabb. Give Baker some Tylenol and tell him to get his butt back to work. Give B. Finneran some glue.

By Jobbed

October 26, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable. And the commentary was even worse, suggesting that the Falcons made a mistake by not saving a timeout so that they could challenge when the referees tried to job them. Nice. This is the NFL, you shouldnt have to take into account the incompetence of the officiating crew into your end-of-the game strategy. Keep up the good work and the hard play, Birds. Y’all are doing great!!!

By Matt

October 26, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Makes you wonder if they were even paying attention to the play. I could tell in real time that he didn’t touch it. It makes me sick that we could of had a CHANCE to win the game but that chance was stolen from us.

All that being said, we need a new punt returner! How many punts has Adam muffed this year? He shouldn’t have been anywhere near the punt. I’m still madder at the refs than him though!

By dave

October 26, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Ref’s blew it, big time… I guess we also learned today how much Anderson means to the D line…

By alan

October 26, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

When muffed calls affect the potential outcome of a game the NFL loses. The NFL will lose fans and revenue if this is not corrected. Every play in the NFL is on TV and should be challenged if necessary by head coaches. THe silly rules we have now are not adequate to keep games free of bad calls.We pay big money to see these games and we want them to be called correctly. The Falcons should make a big deal out of this NFL MUFF.

By Jim

October 26, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Someone needs to give us the email address to the league office!! This could cost us a possible playoff game!! I know the NFL loves the teams from the northeast but this is terrible!

By Ron

October 26, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

It was obviously a bad call….but it could have been avoided by not having Jennings out there. Or at the very minimum, he should not have been playing back so far. Just about every punt dropped in front of him today. It just does not look like he wants to catch an NFL punt. He needs to be cut first thing Monday morning and we can use his roster spot for another defender. And speaking of being cut, I have to admit that Brooking looks like his best days are behind him. He was running behind players all day and can not keep up.

By LaRon

October 26, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Yup…the call put the nail in our coffin. Its really unfortunate but ish happens. Refs make bad calls all the time. We really needed that score in the redzone too that got picked off earlier in the game. But the way we were playing at the end of the game, if we’d of started another drive. I really think we would of won that game.

By david

October 26, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

should not have come down to it. what about the horrific play call on the goaline in the 3rd qtr. Run the effing ball. that is our identity. We have million invested in out FBand TB Run it!

By WTF

October 26, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

It seems, more than ever, that the NFL’s front office is determining the outcome of games and being greedy with fines. this is rediculous, someone needs to talk about these topics on one of the many sports shows on TV in the middle of the day or something.. What is Football coming to?? Roger Goodell never played in the NFL so i cannot fathom why he is governing it. you cant be president of the US if you werent born here, should be the same principle.. Roger played HS sports and nothing more. we need a coup and we need to replace Roger…

and how the h311, what te f0k.. do any of these officials look at the play? or do they just ask the Eagle players what the call should be? its horrible and actions need to take place.

i wish i could make a difference, but im just some guy ranting on the internet.. something needs to happen though

By Trainwreck

October 26, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

it really sux for the Falcons and I’m just as ticked as the rest of you guys but that’s just how football is… one week everything goes right at the end of the game and you get a gw FG at the end of the game, the next week you have a great chance at a comeback thwarted by a horrible call and do not have a time-out to challenge. It sux, but no use crying over spilled milk… let’s move on

By benadawg

October 26, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Am i the only one that thinks the NFL is like boxing? come on, home teams win to keep the tickets sold. Lose games at home and the crowd stays away. The officials know where they are on calls like today….

By mixxo

October 26, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

You’re right True Falcon, we seriously blew that series but, were on our way back for a win when they blew that call. Momentum was on our side at the time.

This one hurts. :(

By Srewed in Philly

October 26, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Wow. Another idiot critizing the Falcons for calling a TO. A little football lesson. You can control the clock on offense, not defense. Therfore, you use the TO on defense.

By ggarcia

October 26, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

First down at the one yard line. Mularkey calls a fade route. That was the true turning point. The game was ours and we lost it. Plain and simple.

Yes, the call was wrong. But, you have to win in spite of the officials. You take a win, you don’t give it away.

Tough loss. Get over it and move on to Oakland.

By CTFalconfan

October 26, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

I had ATL and 8.5 so this call also lead to ATL not covering. Losing the game and losing money - not good. I agree with Chamblee Dawg, cut Jennings as he has done very little as a PR in 2 years plus the other players need to know that there are consequences for their poor play.

By 81hater

October 26, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Jennings has to catch that ball or get away from it. That was one of many poor plays that cost us the game. The only reason he is here is because Thomas Brown was injured. AJ SUX! Go Dawgs! Beat Florida!!!

By oz

October 26, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

College football has it right, to tie a review to timeouts is just stupid. I thought this crew was flag happy all day starting with the roughing on Matt that was a terrible call as well.

By Bryant

October 26, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

That was a completely boneheaded call by the refs. How could they think that Jennings touched the ball? Unbelievable. I do agree with the person above who says that Jennings should be cut. He’s never done much of anything as far as punt returns, and I do believe that Thomas Brown would have taken his spot had he not been injured.

Besides the bad call by the refs, I do have to lay some blame at the feet of the coaching staff for this one. They were putting plenty of pressure on McNabb early in the game and it was causing him to make some bad throws, but for some reason we went away from that and allowed him to get the offense moving. Also, I know our running game wasn’t able to get going, but I think we should have tried to run the ball in as opposed to throwing a pass. Granted, it was a bad throw by Matt Ryan, but still, I think Turner could have run it in.

Even though we lost, I still like the effort that was given. Roddy White made up for some early drops and had another solid game. Matt Ryan faced quite a bit of pressure from the Eagles defense but still played pretty well. I was also impressed with Jamaal Anderson’s play. He had his second sack of the season and was doing good until he got his bell run and had to sit out for the rest of the game. Hopefully he can recover from that and come back with a vengeance next week at Oakland.

I know that Oakland is a dysfunctional mess right now, but the Falcons cannot afford to take the Raiders lightly. We need to come out next week, put our feet on their necks and keep them there for the entire game. Our running game hasn’t done much over the past couple of weeks, so this would be an excellent chance for Michael Turner to get back in his groove.

By Whistlebritches

October 26, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

CT Falcon fan there is now way you can blame Smith. He doesn’ know about a stupid call before it happens. He only had 21 seconds he had to not have a weird call, roll the dice and play. The refs missed it and there should be a way for them to review it like in college football. Jennings did the right thing and people want to blame him. Y’all are nuts. Blown Call and bad NFL policy of not bing able to review it.

By william

October 26, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

We did just what we had to do, we scored, then we held them on defense. That is silly that INSIDE 2 min left, that call cold have been reviewed, but since it was 2:22 left, it was not reveiwable. That rule needs to be changed. That should be the only job of Rich McKay this offseason. This game, win or lose WOULD have been a great game down to the end, but thanks to NFL referees, it was stolen from the fans.

By Toodlums

October 26, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

First, don’t blame Jennings for this one. As a returner in that situation, your job is to protect field position. If he’d let the punt go and it rolled dead at the 15, folks would be screaming for his head (and rightly so). He did (and tried to do) the right thing.

The officials, however, that’s an entirely different matter. They blew it.

By Ramguy

October 26, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Who was the idiot that Fox had for a color analyst? He missed the whole point. He said Coach Smith would calm down and understand that he didn’t have a TO to use for a challenge. The fact that the Falcons didn’t have a TO didn’t have anything to do with the Refs blowing the call. Of course he had already stated that a DB could run over, hold or hit an offensive receiver just as long as he was going for the ball. Yeah boy. The Falcons may have very well drove down the field and scored. Ryan was already starting to make the Eagles pay for blitzing every down. I thought the personal foul penalty on Milloy for hitting the TE was questionable too. The balls was flipped in the air and the TE was still trying to locate the ball when Milloy laid the wood on him. The Refs should be held up for ridicule just like the players, coaches and owners are. Fined and suspended too.

By Tony

October 26, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

With the 2 minute warning approaching coach Smith should NOT have called a timeout!!

By Michael

October 26, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Eagles fan here and i wanted to say that the Falcons have improved greatly and I am glad after last year and Vick. The Refs also blew the Trent Cole sack of Ryan, which was obvious on replay but not reviewable. While I prefer the college system, the NFL has made it clear that it wants to prevent games going over 3 hours so I doubt that will happen. Also, keep in mind that watching something once at normal speed make it difficult and your player got awfully close, though on replay it would have been overturned.

Good luck, go pound Oakland.

check out my vacation chalet, great getaway fro Atlantens:

www.happbearchalet.com

By Skip Floyd

October 26, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Bad call by the ref cost Atlanta a chance to win the game. Rules should be changed to allow a review when the game is on the line, not just in the last 2 min.

This game was just 22 sec from being in the last 2 min. So it looks like the NFL thinks its OK to let the refs decide the outcome of the game late, just not in the last 2 min.

By Gov

October 26, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

I would like to see what disciplinary action is given to to the refs - this may be the worst missed a call I’ve ever seen.

By CTFalconfan

October 26, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

By Srewed in Philly

October 26, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Wow. Another idiot critizing the Falcons for calling a TO. A little football lesson. You can control the clock on offense, not defense. Therfore, you use the TO on defense.

Well genius, your lesson on clock mgt fails to mention that taking our last TO with more than 2 min COST US THE GAME. So what what lesson are you trying to teach?? Your lesson plan is as flawed as Mike Smith’s clock management..

By beki

October 26, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

As much as the refs missed the call on the punt to Jennings, I question Smith’s second time out call with 3 and half minutes left in the game and then the last one with two minutes left in the game. When the Eagles punted to Jennings, I closed my eyes and hoped he wouldn’t drop or fumble the ball. It was worse: the Eagles got the ball back on a dubious call and ran out the clock. It is easy to say that the game was lost with P* poor tackling and no blitzing/harassing of McNabb who had way too much time for throwing to Westbrook who, all too much, was open. Jeesh.

By JayeBird

October 26, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

I agree that the refs made an absolutely awful call at the end of the game, but two things to keep in mind: 1) we missed an opportunity to score on 1st and goal when an interception was thrown, and 2) why in the world would we use our last TO right before the 2min warning??

I’m optimistic that we’ll get our act together. This team is young; it’s games like these that’ll build character and resilience for a future winning franchise.

GO FALCONS!!

By mixxo

October 26, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

ggarcia - I agree. Terrible, terrible call!! Game was basically over at that point.

2nd and goal and we throw a fade???

UGH!

By LVAFAN

October 26, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

the game was lost by the idiot who called the fade pass on 2nd and goal. That was the worst call i have ever seen in a football game including pop warner.

By Ramguy

October 26, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Someone suggested that one play doesn’t make or break a game. Tell the U of Miami that after a phantom interference call cost them the National Championship game. The ref in question in that game later admitted that he didn’t actually see the interference but thought it must have occured. 5 will get you 10 that the Refs in this game didn’t think they saw the ball hit Jennings but thought that it must have.

By e.b.

October 26, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Yeah, that was a real shame. The real mistake was the Falcons playcalling on the goal line possession earlier in the game, when Ryan lofted the ball and it got intercepted. They should’be pounded the ball in for a TD. Clearly the Falcons are better than the Eagles. Sure, the Falcons gave up some big plays, but if they got that earlier TD on the goal line, we wouldn’t even be having this conversation, because it would be 21-20 Falcons. But yes, clearly a missed call on the muff, and Falcons still could’ve won the game. The last Eagles TD was a cheapie…a gift. Falcons deserved better today. Many mental mistakes, but regardless they should be 5-2, not 4-3.

By e.b.

October 26, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Yeah, that was a real shame. The real mistake was the Falcons playcalling on the goal line possession earlier in the game, when Ryan lofted the ball and it got intercepted. They should’be pounded the ball in for a TD. Clearly the Falcons are better than the Eagles. Sure, the Falcons gave up some big plays, but if they got that earlier TD on the goal line, we wouldn’t even be having this conversation, because it would be 21-20 Falcons. But yes, clearly a missed call on the muff, and Falcons still could’ve won the game. The last Eagles TD was a cheapie…a gift. Falcons deserved better today. Many mental mistakes, but regardless they should be 5-2, not 4-3.

By e.b.

October 26, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Yeah, that was a real shame. The real mistake was the Falcons playcalling on the goal line possession earlier in the game, when Ryan lofted the ball and it got intercepted. They should’be pounded the ball in for a TD. Clearly the Falcons are better than the Eagles. Sure, the Falcons gave up some big plays, but if they got that earlier TD on the goal line, we wouldn’t even be having this conversation, because it would be 21-20 Falcons. But yes, clearly a missed call on the muff, and Falcons still could’ve won the game. The last Eagles TD was a cheapie…a gift. Falcons deserved better today. Many mental mistakes, but regardless they should be 5-2, not 4-3.

By The Real Truth

October 26, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

I posted this under Bird Babe’s blog and I’ll just paste it hear to save a couple of seconds of typing:

October 26, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

All around I’d say it was a well played game…we were in it long enough to where we had a chance to go for a win so I can’t really complain about that. I’m sure that this blog will mostly be dedicated to the blown call and I’m sure all of us Falcons fan will bash as much as we can out of that call. So I’ll go ahead and ask the question now…

When does the league move to the college rules when it comes to reviews??? Each week we have seen bad calls by refs lead to the final decision of ball games everywhere.

If I ran things I would allow for the booth to review all plays in the 4th quarter.

But Adam Jennings is not innocent at all with the “muff scandal”. There were two things he did wrong which is why I am still saying we should have fired the guy before the season started.

1) SIGNAL FOR A FAIR CATCH Clearly the Eagles defender was closing in quickly on him so he could have easily called for a fair catch and not have to worry about going up to catch the ball. From the looks of it if he would have caught that ball he would have been nailed immediately so he should have just fair caught the football.

2) DON’T GO UP TO CATCH THE BALL Again like I mentioned before. The Eagles defender was going to nail him, I look at that play and don’t see him having a chance to make the defender miss. So if you’re not going to call the fair catch just get out of the way.

I thought calling the time out before the two minute warning was the right thing to do at the time because you still have the warning for a time out…a guess the saying is true about hindsight. Toodlums I don’t think all the blame should be placed on Adam Jennings but he doesn’t get off cleanly as I explained above.

By Brewsky

October 26, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

GET IT RIGHT! NFL! THAT RESPONSIBILTY IS ON THE OFFICIATING. Not the precipitating teams. If the officials don’t want to get it right, then why have officials. Teams should not be penalized because officials miss “A Call”. Officials should have the option and integrity to review every call if they agree that there is a question on the call made. It should have nothing to do with “Team time outs”. Blatant bad calls should not be tolerated in any sport. GET IT RIGHT, NFL!

By jerry

October 26, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Why can’t a play be reviewed in the last two minutes. Since so many NFL games are decided in the last two minutes this is about the stupidest rule in the NFL. And this red flag mickey mouse s—t is downright childish.

By Brewsky

October 26, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

GET IT RIGHT! NFL! THAT RESPONSIBILTY IS ON THE OFFICIATING. Not the precipitating teams. If the officials don’t want to get it right, then why have officials. Teams should not be penalized because officials miss “A Call”. Officials should have the option and integrity to review every call if they agree that there is a question on the call made. It should have nothing to do with “Team time outs”. Blatant bad calls should not be tolerated in any sport. GET IT RIGHT, NFL!

By Oh Come On!!

October 26, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

I believe we were forced to miss Matt Ryan’s first come back win late in the game. I believe the NFL needs to adopt the college rules to where every play is reviewed. Common sense should prevail in this type of case.
Saying that, we gave the game away in other plays as well. Finneran dropping a touchdown pass, and calling for a passing play on the 3 yard line with two huge running backs in your backfield is STUPID!!

By Eric

October 26, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

I thought the instant replay was put in place to get the calls right. This was a painfull lost, because the Falcons never got that chance at the end. You got to forget this one and get the easy win in Oakland.

By Halsey

October 26, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

I’m sick and tired these stupid miscalls not being overruled by obvious video evidence! All you need is someone in a booth to call down and correct a simple mistake by the refs! The eye is the sky doesn’t lie, but the refs eyes do! It’s a simple fix, but the NFL is letting the refs union pressure them from making it.

By Danny Wofford

October 26, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

I am sick of these inept officials, college and pro. That call definitely impacted the game. The replay rules still need some adjustments. It should be possible for the booth referee to review an apparent mistake. Why should a team be penalized for a referee’s mistake whether they have time outs or not!

By Nookah

October 26, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

I too am peaved at the poor call. However, step outside the box for a minute. If someone on the 1st of September (knowing what we knew then) had said to us….”I’ll give you 4-3 after the Philly game”, would we even have hesitated? We’d all take it in a heartbeat, bar none, if you are a true Falcon Fan.

I know Adam messed up but don’t kill the guy, he didn’t blow the call. Furthermore, he’s gonna come back next week and bust one. You heard it here first!!!!

A few bloggers have mentioned that Philly outplayed us anyway. However, as Chris Berman always says…”that’s why we play the games!!!!” If you lead for 59 minutes and stop playing for 1, you can get beat in this league. So I’ll not say they outplayed us so they deserved to win. We hung in there despite losing Jamaal Anderson and what is remarkable we had a chance to win the game ……… until the refs showed up!! What can I say.

Is it just me or do Atlanta teams always get the bad calls? Please I need some feeback on this.

I’m so proud of my Falcons and very soon we’ll be a very good team. I can see the firm foundation being laid.

GO FALCONS!!!!!

Nuff respect!!!

By Tom Brown

October 26, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

I didn’t see it but one call shouldn’t ever make that big of deal. If they would have been ahead by 20 then they wouldn’t have needed the call. Refs are human and rules are rules so lets get over it and look towards Oakland. Dawgs had a great weekend in LA. Gooooooo Dawgs sic ‘em woof woof woof! We will need a greta day to beat Florida!

By T

October 26, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith did not want to call the last time out when he did. If you look at the tape again, you see Coach Smith looking at the clock and not wanting to call the TO. But the officials took 15 seconds to spot the freaking ball which put the play clock ticking down to the 2:00 warning. That is when coach took the TO to get the ball before the warning. Spotting the ball is a HUGE problem in NFL and college. These old men can’t move with any pace and it takes them way to long.

By Brewsky

October 26, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

GET IT RIGHT! NFL! THAT RESPONSIBILTY IS ON THE OFFICIATING. Not the precipitating teams. If the officials don’t want to get it right, then why have officials. Teams should not be penalized because officials miss “A Call”. Officials should have the option and integrity to review every call if they agree that there is a question on the call made. It should have nothing to do with “Team time outs”. Blatant bad calls should not be tolerated in any sport. GET IT RIGHT, NFL!

By Dave Wood

October 26, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Terrible call, terrible decision by Jennings to run up on such a short punt. Let’s not forget, though, the Falcons’ inability to punch it into the end zone on short yardage, followed up by Ryan’s absolutely abysmal pass that was picked off, costing us points and momentum. For a “good running team”, the Falcons can’t move the ball on the ground against a good team. Turner has had three 100 yard games, and has had 58 or less in every other game.

By jon

October 26, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

wow, the first half was played very nicely.. pressure on Mcnabb, solid playcalling. but its as if they self-destructed in the second half.. NO pressure what-so-ever, pretty immature playcalling (like if i was playing my 11 year old nephew in madden).. and thank you mixxo . who throws, much less a fade, on 2nd and goal on the 2 yard line?? i mean, seriously??

By Reg

October 26, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

After this and the Denver game I wonder aloud if the NFL has the same dirty official problem that the NBA has. Once again we get the worst of it in Philly. Someone needs to check the book on wiseguy money up there..

By Mike

October 26, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

DEFENSE cost us the game today. Refs didn’t help make up for the crappy defense I saw today.

Every member of that secondary needs to be released along with Jennings. Wake up Dimitrof! DO YOUR JOB!

NFL will fix this in the offseason. First SD got robbed with a bad call, now ATL. Roger Goddell needs to fix this for the integrity of the game.

Don’t blame the loss on the refs or the timeout decision by Coach Smith. Blame that crappy defense played, particularly by the secondary.

Chris Houston SUCKS! I am a better cornerback than he is.

By HJones

October 26, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Maybe!!!! The real problem was the offensive play calling. Not until the fourth quarter was Matt Ryan allowed to pass as needed. There were too many cute reverse plays that have not achieved anything this entire year. Remember in the Chicago game, we tried a reverse during the first series that lost 10 yards and we settled for a field goal. FREE MATT RYAN AND LET HIM PASS MORE!!!!

By T

October 26, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

While I agree A. Jennings has not played very well in his tenure w/ Falcons, you can not blame him for a horrible call by the officials. Replay clearly showed that Jennings wasn’t even within 1 foot of that football. Just horrible officiating!

By Rabbit

October 26, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

The NFL Screwed the Falcons and thier fans, Thats all you can make of that call. that call could set the tone for the rest of the season and cause the Falcons to possibly miss the play offs.

By WHY YOU CALL THE TO

October 26, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

I think some people not only don’t understand the game for the most part which is why they are so LOST when it comes to properly using TO’s.

First off you want to have enough time on the clock if you get the football back. So the TO’s were properly used by Coach Smith during the Eagles last drive. The second time out called before third down is to stop the clock because the Eagles could have let the clock run for another 40 seconds which i can’t remember exactly how much time was on the clock prior to that. The next time out called with 2:31 was a good time out because the Eagles would have run the clock down to the two minute warning and then punted after the two minute warning leaving you with maybe 1:50 on the clock.

If the punt is fielded cleanly..maybe fair caught as a guy mentioned above then you probably have 2:25 on the clock. Yea you may not have one time out but you would have had the ball at the Eagles 50 with 2:25. I rather have that than the 1:50 and one time out because you’re in an even bigger rush with 1:50….that’s just how i see it and if Mike Smith has the chance again he’d probably play it the same exact way. Don’t let the idiot that Fox had as a color guy confuse y’all because he was just as dumb as the refs with all his bad color commentating today. Hell I thought he was pulling for the Eagles at one point

By Justin Gottlieb

October 26, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

That play got me more mad then I have ever been watching football. We had deserved the right to get that ball and due to stupid rules there was nothing we could have done. I hope the refs get fined!!!

By Mike

October 26, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

DEFENSE cost us the game today. Refs didn’t help make up for the crappy defense I saw today.

Every member of that secondary needs to be released along with Jennings. Wake up Dimitrof! DO YOUR JOB!

NFL will fix this in the offseason. First SD got robbed with a bad call, now ATL. Roger Goddell needs to fix this for the integrity of the game.

Don’t blame the loss on the refs or the timeout decision by Coach Smith. Blame that crappy defense played, particularly by the secondary.

Chris Houston SUCKS! I am a better cornerback than he is.

By D. Bell

October 26, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Bad call. Another bad call? Keeping Jennings on this team.

Also, the head official is a resident of Conyers. I’m just saying.

By Jt

October 26, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

The problem is first and goal from the 1 yard line and trying to be fancy resulting in an interception. THAT cost the game. No reason for that call. Ridiculous

By Dennis

October 26, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Every time I think I’ve heard it all from the Fox Sports jerks, they top themselves. The refs blow the call, and they blame it on the Falcons.

That said, I was talking to myself before the punt hoping Jennings would not do anything stupid. I dream too much.

By RA

October 26, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

Okay, first off, I’d protest the game as a matter of course if I was Mike Smith. Secondly, there were two major calls that cost the Falcons that game. The first and biggest was not punching that ball in on the two yard line. The only way that intercepted flare pass wouldn’t have been a bad idea would have been if it had worked… The other thing was using your last time out before the two minute warning. That was ill advised, but you know, all that aside, they looked good. You had two great players in McNabb and Westbrook that did what they’ve been doing their entire careers, win games. We got to see what in years to come is going to be the premier passing duo in the NFL Ryan and White. All in all, bad call, tough loss, great education for Smith. Go get them next time. Go Falcons!

By dawgthabootyhunter

October 26, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

TERRIBLE CALL! The Falcs were screwed to the highest degree.

By Dawn

October 26, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

I hate the refs!

By Mike

October 26, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

To you lazy a55 AJC reporters. This game has been over for over a friggin hour and the lead story on this rag of a newspaper is still coming from wire reports. Unbelievable. The Philly columnists have already posted. Here it’s the same half-a55 crap every week. Either get on your game or get another friggin job. Slack a55es!!

By kenny from athens

October 26, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

The sign of a great team is a team that can play poorly and win. The Falcons played poorly but were still right in the thick of things until the refs blew the game. Matt Ryan has demonstrated that he can move the football. I think that we are looking at a playoff calibre team. Thank you, Mr. Blank, Coach Smith, Mr. Dmitroff, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Roddy White, and The Predator.

By mixxo

October 26, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

There’s gonna be games like this, hopefully, not many more this year. Ouch!

Just gotta put it behind us and go back to work. We’ll be OK!

By Where's Rossum?

October 26, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Dear Atlanta Falcons:

While I’m stuck in obscurity, San Francisco, I would love to return to Atlanta and help contribute. After viewing the replay of the Philly game, it is very apparent that Adam Jennings is no more qualified to drive a cab than catch punts. In return for rescuing me from San Fran, I vow to not muff one punt.

Yours truly,

Allen Bonshaca Lamont Rossum

By Pull a Miami Heat

October 26, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Man I say we do what the Miami Heat did to the Atlanta Hawks last year if the NFL allows it. I say we protest this game and play the last 2:31 seconds with the ball spotted where the Eagles touched the ball after the bad call. The NFL has to end the nonsense. Bad calls have been screwin up games left and right this year. Yeah the Falcons could have done other things to win the game in hind sight, but at least those plays that the Falcons goofed on were things that they actually worked to do as crazy as that sounds. But the refs actually blew a call that was responsible for the Falcons not only getting a shot a going ahead but responsible for the Eagles padding their stats and getting another touchdown. Good class act from the Eagles knowing that the Falcons had no more time outs and they go and pad their stats and then Andy Reid and his bad fatherin a** get up there and say that he thought the right call was made. Yeah…class act all right.

By CTFalconfan

October 26, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

3 keys to todays loss: 1) Stupid play call to throw into the end zone on 2nd and goal fm the 2. JUST PUNCH IT IN with our running attack. 2) Catch the ball FINN (He usually does) 3) Jennings either catch the ball or get the heck out of there.

By Mitch

October 26, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

This game was poorly officiated as well as poorly coached at points. Bad call on the roughing the passer penalty against the eagles and poor call on the un-necessary roughness on Milloy and poor call on the muffed punt. The poor execution of the two minute drill at the end of the 1st half and the pass rather than run on 1st and goal from the 1 combined for a loss. However, I’m just glad to be in games with a chance to win. 4-3 is a far cry better than last year, and our coaches are at least nfl caliber. I’m proud of the falcons. Go Birds.

By Great Falconi

October 26, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Keith Brooking looked painfully old today.

That being said, I didn’t expect the Falcons to win this game. Sure, that was a terrible call by the refs on the non-muffed punt. Contrary to the idiot analyst on today’s FOX coverage, it’s not Mike Smith’s fault that he was trying to save as much time as possible for a potential game-winning TD drive. Unfortunately, the bad call was made and the Falcons couldn’t challenge it. It sucks, but that’s the way it is. (I’m sure the NFL will issue an apology. They can shove that apology up their a*, of course.)

Matt Ryan was rattled some today. The Eagles brought the heat a lot today. The offensive line held up for the most part. I think that’s encouraging. The INT in the end zone was a backbreaker, but he’ll learn from it. He did his best to keep his team in the game with the TD drive late in the fourth quarter. What was not encouraging was the inability to run the ball. The Falcons won’t win many games if they can’t run it. They know that, so I expect some improved rushing totals against the Raiders next week.

By Airbo#14

October 26, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Why did we implement the sophisticated replay system for the officials, only to allow it to remain conspicuously silent? The replay officials upstairs watched the same replay we did and were helpless to make amends. I learned that an error is not a mistake until you refuse to correct it.In college, the official review would have been automatic and there the game is just that, a game. In the NFL, the game is a business. This is a tragedy. I’m glad my HR department is allowed to review management’s decisions. Too bad for the Falcons, the organization, the fans, and the entire NFL.

By igotxx3

October 26, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

yea i agree why would you throw a fade rout when you have a great HB in turner, let turner pound the ball in. Im sure these review calls will change in the off season since its costing teams games

By wbhart

October 26, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

The announcer of the game really got to me - you could tell this one guy was for the eagles (and I have nothing personally against that team) but if you are an announcer you have no right to play favorites. The call was bad but this announcer was thrilled when they got the ball back he wanted them to win so bad. He should be fired and the officials fined and Atlanta should get the touchdowns when they get the chance. Not a happy camper at all today!

By Greg Morrison

October 26, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

It was a blown call, and Jennings is a lousy punt returner. He was tentative all day, and instead of attacking short punts, he backpedaled giving up potential field position on several punts. The refs blew the call, but his indecisiveness finally caught up with him. Catch the ball, and don’t force a referee to make a difficult call at the end of the game, because you’ve waffled once again on whether to play aggressively or back off. Of course, it’s an idiotic rule that a play under these circumstances can’t be reviewed. It was a botched call and there was recourse within the rules to correct it.

By Greg Morrison

October 26, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

It was a blown call, and Jennings is a lousy punt returner. He was tentative all day, and instead of attacking short punts, he backpedaled giving up potential field position on several punts. The refs blew the call, but his indecisiveness finally caught up with him. Catch the ball, and don’t force a referee to make a difficult call at the end of the game, because you’ve waffled once again on whether to play aggressively or back off. Of course, it’s an idiotic rule that a play under these circumstances can’t be reviewed. It was a botched call and there was recourse within the rules to correct it.

By Zman

October 26, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

There is plenty of blame to go around, but please remember this is a first year head coach, quarterback, and a young Jennings. I am so proud of the Birds today, they could have won the game. Believe me the Eagles know they were in a fight to the end. Yes bad call but Jennings should have ran away from the ball so there would have been no guessing. Coach Smith should have been more reserve on using his timeouts. But you can bet the league knows what is going on here in Atlanta, and they are starting to fear us. Respect my friends is what is happening in the NFL when it comes to the Birds. It was our game to win until it was taken from us by the call. So lets move on and God help the Raiders next week because they will pay for this lost.

By shane

October 26, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

Is there something in the water in GA. Birds and Dawgs HC’s are horrible at clock management! Having said that- isnt it great to see the birds competing in every game? Admit it- if we’d have been told we were gonna be 4-3 at this point we would have been elated! I haven’t seen anyone on t.v. discussing the blatantly missed call.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

October 26, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

Even with that blown call, Adam Jennings has got to go. I do not understand why he is still on this roster. Even when he does something right it goes bad for the Falcons. I’m tired of cringing everytime the opposing teams punt to us. This loss is as sickening as it gets. You could tell even the Philly fans knew the call was horrible. They will get over it before us, but man that sucked. They have the play right there on the jumbo-tron, know they blew it and can’t turn that over? EVERYONE saw that it was a bad call and the integrity of the game still has to suffer? What bull…

By Leigh Goralczyk

October 26, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

As an Eagles fan i must say we caught a break. Im sure Coach Smith will keep a time out in his pocket from now on. The Falcons are for real. Bad calls are a part of the game just go back to the roughing the passer they called on my beloved Eagles. Clean hit bad call. We might meet again and I hope its not in Atlanta. Hold your heads up.

By shane

October 26, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

How about rolling over a timeout if u don’t use one in the first half? I think we lost the game right before the half b/c we were just happy to be tied. we didnt use any timeouts and gave them momentum once they kicked the field goal.

By Road Scholar

October 26, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

First it was the Tech game and the absence of holding calls on UVA. Then the lack of a Pass Interference call on Tech’s last drive. How many times can a DB grab and make contact with a receiver after the kine of scrimmage and beyond 10 yards before he is called for PI?

Then the Falcon’s game. The hit on Matt Ryan was not a foul. The hit on the wide receiver that was ruled a PF was not. The ball bounced off his hands and he turned to try to catch it and then he was hit. Not helmet to helmet!

Then the punt that didn’t touch anyone but an Eagles player. The ref that made the call should be fired and the others suspended. Responsibility…Isn’t that what they are trying to teach the players? Adam Jones should be suspended ,handed a shovel and told to get in the ditch to dig until he has some respect for others and appreciates his talents.

By Falcon Lover

October 26, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t do much good to complain about the bad calls. I don’t think the Refs. are paid that much anyhow. All year, both pros and college calls have been very much slanted toward the home teams as was evident today.

The announcer was a real ‘homie’ also. Every time the Eagles were penalized, he would comment that it should not be a penalty, yet when Milloy rang the bell on the Eaglt WR, he was all for the penalty. By the way, what was Brooking thinking to let the ball hit him in the back of his head?

By joey Porter

October 26, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

same old sorry a* falcons. Did you clowns really expect to beat philly? hell no.

Blame the loss on the refs. you clowns had no chance and you know it.

Shut down the run force Ryan leaf to throw often and he comes through like the int machine that he is.

Analyze your losses and victories and you will realize how terrible your team is.

You haven’t beaten any team convincingly this year.

Get ready for more losses. You folks are the falcons you are cursed to be losers.

It’s bad luck for other teams but a habit for the falcons.

You guys will go to Oakland and lose. you are losers.

You should have lost two weeks ago.

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

Thats the way, Falcons. Thats how you do it.

By Big BCH 99

October 26, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

The Refs cost the Falcons the game, there was no guarantee that we would’ve won, but all of us would have liked to see us have a shot to drive down for the win w/ 2:22 to go, plenty of time.

The NFL needs to come up w/ a way to review real close calls w/ more than 2 minutes to go when a team is out of T.O.’s. Whether that means let a team w/o a T.O. left challenge a play and get penalized 10 yds if the call isn’t overturned.

By michaelgee

October 26, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

The problem has 2 sides.

BUT if you have no timeout but obviously ARE CORRECT THAT THE NFL OFFICIAL SCREWED UP, it didn’t happen unless you have a timeout left which WOULD NOT be used when the ruling is reviewed.

By DurtyBurdFan

October 26, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

CUT JENNINGS NOW He scares you every time he touches the ball PLUS he only averages 6 yards! Please Mr. Dimitroff, cut him now.

By Reggiew

October 26, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

The NFL must stop allowing this to happen.Who knows if the Falcons would have won but they should have had the chance I sure the NFL will have some type of fairy tale about the call clearly the call was was blown and if Andy Reid said he thought it was the right call he is an (IDIOT) HE HAD COACHES UPSTAIRS THAT SAW THE PLAY WHO I AM SURE TOLD HIM THE CALL WAS BLOWN REAL CLASS ACT THERE CHUBBY.Do it like college and review any play like that one that is questionable

By Zman

October 26, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Joey Porter you are an idiot. We could have won this one but sh@@ happens. But when it comes to the Raiders next week I think they better find a rock to crawl under because the will feel the hurt that Atlanta puts on them for this lost.

By Great Falconi

October 26, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Here’s what Keith Brooking was thinking before that ball hit him in the head:

“Holy s**! This dude just burnt my a*. I better drag my old a* back and try to make it look like I might be able to stop him (ball hits him in the head)…thank God!”

By N2Pain

October 26, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Mike Smith showed he was a rookie coach. Bad call on the fade and lousy use of TOs in second half. Matt Ryan doesn’t play like a rookie but Mike Smith is certainly a rookie.

By N2Pain

October 26, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Mike Smith showed he was a rookie coach. Bad call on the fade and lousy use of TOs in second half. Matt Ryan doesn’t play like a rookie but Mike Smith is certainly a rookie.

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

The Falcons were outplayed plain and simple. Refs don’t win or lose games.

By Great Falconi

October 26, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

Big BCH 99,

I think you’ve got a good idea. You could even make it a 15-yard penalty for a lost challenge in that situation.

By Rascal

October 26, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

First problem was the ref that made the call was behind Jennings and could not possibly have seen the play, but he took a wild guess. Maybe they should admit it when they have no idea and demand they get to use the replay on these plays.

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Make Ryan throw the football = INTs, losses.

By Bryan

October 26, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

First of all even before this game Adam Jennings needs to go find a new job! Maybe something behind a desk where he doesn’t have to catch anything!

Second of all this is a crime how good is Instant Replay if it still lets bad calls get by????????????

By David

October 26, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

We at first thought he touched it. Kinda looked like it hit his foot. BUT THEN, OBVIOUSLY, ON REPLAY IT DIDN’T. How could all the officials on the field agree they saw something that they CLEARLY DIDN’T????

By macfleetwood

October 26, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Yes..The Falcons Had The MO Prior To The Call.. I Blame The Loss On POOR Game Plan..Did They EVER Run A Play Off The Right Side? SMITH Should Have Called “Onside” Kick After The Last Touchdown!! What Was He Thinking? Coach Should ALWAYS Carry 1 Time Out Into The Final 2 Minutes! We Held Our “Own” For 1st Half..Got Tired And “Lost” In The 2nd Half!! White & FINNERAN Played “Dropsey” AGAIN!! Why In Hell Would You Throw A “Jump” Ball When You Have 2-3 Plays To Drive It In From The 2 Ft Line?? NO Run Game Seldom Wins In The NFL!!

By David

October 26, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

N2Pain,

I don’t think Smith made that call. Probably the Offensive Coordinator. Though I agree, a run would have been better, this one you can chalk up to execution more than anything. Mike Smith has been great for us and your wrong to blame the loss om him.

By dave

October 26, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Kevin - no but they can blow a call and they blew that one. Too bad the Falcons didn’t get a chance to win the game…

By Famuan

October 26, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

The call on the punt didn’t cost Falcons the game…what cost the Falcons the game was #36…BRIAN WESTBROOK!!!!!!!!!!

By bernie

October 26, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Why didn,t the upstairs crew look at this play. They look at everything else. They ought to give Atlanta a break some times. If It would have been in Atlantas favor I ganratee they would have reviewed it. GO FALCONS!

By rms

October 26, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

That wasnt the first time Jennings muffed a punt. I was at a preseason game when he did the same thing against the Titans. The ball bounced off his head! Even if he was to fair catch it he is still a lousy punt returner because he averages barely 6 yards. He should be let go but who is experienced enough to fill his place. That like 2 weeks ago saying cut Jason Elam because he missed a chip shot field goal that almost cost us the game but since he redeemed himself noone is talking about that!!

By David

October 26, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

really famaun? Westbrook had a great game but it would be silly to think that punt call didn’t impact the final outcome.

By Mike

October 26, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

Evey team gets bad calls. Last night the Phillies got a bad call at first that could have cost them the game. There are no reviews for that! The Falcons were caught with no time outs prior to the two minute warning. Shame on the clock management that could have corrected that missed call.

By darrell

October 26, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

adam jennings had nothing to do with bad officating…if backs away from the ball and let’s it hit and roll 20 yards you’d be upset about that. he made the right play to give his team a chance. bottom line is he didn’t touch the ball, PERIOD. How can college have a better system than the pro’s…they seem to get it right. who’s idea is it that like college a crew can’t be in the both to review such situations…college does it. and, how come inside 2 minutes is more important than 3,4,5,10 minutes.

in closing fox should take action on the annoucer who said atlanta should have been more prudent with their time-outs. you call time-outs when your on defense, stupid. atlanta handled their time-outs perfectly the ref’s on the other hand should have taken a time-out to confer…don’t think that even happened. isn’t the whole point to get it right?

By SPACE MOUNTAIN 2

October 26, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

joey porter, you remind me of what I saw inside my toilet stool after I had lasagna. U and your boy vick supporter are lame dimwits. Go get a life u idiots. A loss is a loss. I am sure u are plenty used to that by now especially when it comes to scoring with the ladies….

By Point spread call?

October 26, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

Interesting that the call by the refs changed the point spread on the game from no worse than seven (well under the Vegas line) to fourteen (well over the Vegas line). One call does it all…is Donaghy calling these guys?

By MJ

October 26, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

The officiating crew of that game should be taken to D-Block by John Abraham, Keith Brooking, and Brent Grimes bith a*!

By MJ

October 26, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

The officiating crew of that game should be taken to D-Block by John Abraham, Keith Brooking, and Brent Grimes bith a*!

By MJ

October 26, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

The officiating crew of that game should be taken to D-Block by John Abraham, Keith Brooking, and Brent Grimes bith a*!

By wins not PR

October 26, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan had more turn over’s than Jenning the ref blow it .Elam miss a field goal should thet cut him. You fan sux. Just the same old falcon. The hold team lost the game. I say we cut the fans!!!!

By Tron5000

October 26, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

It should not have come down to that. Mike Smith burned all of our TOs, when you need to keep at least 1 for that specific scenario: in case you need to challenge a play before the 2-minute warning. Refs screw up every once in a while. That’s why you are allowed to challenge plays.

The Birds looked like crap today. Allowing Philly to eat up yards on a 10-15 yard clip.

We should not have been as close as we were, and we should have held on to a TO in case you need to challenge (or call a TO on your final drive). Overall sorry performance by the O-line, D-line, secondary and receiving corps (Roddy notwithstanding). We got exactly what we deserved: a loss.

By Jim (not Mora)

October 26, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

Bad call indeed. But what about when we were 2nd and Goal from the one (I think that’s what it was). And we pass????? What do we have Mughelli for? That was a bonehead call on the coaching staff.

By Birdy

October 26, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

When will one of these experienced AJC journalist professionals mention in an article, column or blog how atrocious Keith Brooking’s play is?

Is the press afraid of recriminations from the Falcons front office? I seem to recall Matt Winklejohn running afoul of the team’s P.R. machine. Is that something Ledbetter, Schultz, Moore and the other guys are wary of?

What’s up, gentlemen? we have one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league on our roster and he not only got overpowered by McNabb at the goal line, but he was beaten by a 280 lb fullback in pass coverage today. Of course there were no other impact plays by this highly paid player.

When, for the good of the team, will a journalist dare mention the big elephant sitting on the table in front of us? Please help the dedicated Falcons fans.

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

No Vick = Losing Season

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Dave-The Falcons did have a chance to win the game…..The best running game in the NFC and on 2nd and goal they throw a fade from inside the 5…..Are U kidding me…..Thank You Mike Smith!! Christmas in Philly You can’t Allow Westbrook over 200 all purpose yards and expect to win….the muff call was a non factor. Besides with the gift call Personal Foul on third down when Ryan was just tackled …..everything evens out

By Tron5000

October 26, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

And seriously: A fade on 2nd and goal from the half yard line? I don’t even do crap like that on Madden.

By johndawg1973

October 26, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Jennings has got to GO! Too bad they put T Brown on IR.

By Scooter

October 26, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

If it was a muffed punt. Then why didn’t they call it a touchdown when the Eagles got it and ran it in for a TD on the same play? Bull Crap Call!!!

By Tron5000

October 26, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Hey Jock Supporter, Vick’s last 2 seasons = No Winning Seasons. What kind of point art thou trying to make?

By GaLiberal

October 26, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

The Falcons proved why they are a complete joke in the NFL. They were outpassed, outrun, outblocked, and just plain outclassed. Ryan is great for a rookie, but when compared to a seasoned pro like McNabb he can’t compete. Maybe in 3 or 4 years. The lousy call by the ref probably cost the Falcons some points, but they still won’t have won. Falcons, Braves, Hawks, Thrashers. Need I say more.

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Scooter-Learn the rules…You are not allowed to advance a muff

By brian

October 26, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Adam Jennings should have had one thing in mind: WHATEVER I DO, CATCH THE FOOTBALL. Allowing the ball to hit the ground was a terrible mistake from a “professional” punt returner. When he backed away, he was just begging for something bad to happen. Either the ball would bounce around for 20 seconds eating up valuable clock or, worse, hit a Falcon (or appear to do so) and cause a turnover.

Overall, I am very happy with the Falcons. Clutch punts from Koenen! Good OL protection! Ryan played great except for not checking out of that fade route.

Adam Jennings… someone smarter than I am has decided that you are the best option at punt returner, so I will support you as long as they keep calling your number. Tough love though… you’ve got to do a lot better than this.

By Tron5000

October 26, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

I’m with you, Scooter. Watching the game, I thought, “There’s no way they can give this to Philly. Otherwise, they would not have blown the play dead.” Ridiculous. How do you say Jennings muffed the punt and give the Eagles possession, when the play was blown dead and they were not allowed to return the “muffed” punt for a TD? Horrible.

But I reiterate: it should not have come down to that. Poor management by the coaching staff.

By Michael

October 26, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Eagles fan here and i wanted to say that the Falcons have improved greatly and I am glad after last year and Vick. The Refs also blew the Trent Cole sack of Ryan, which was obvious on replay but not reviewable. While I prefer the college system, the NFL has made it clear that it wants to prevent games going over 3 hours so I doubt that will happen. Also, keep in mind that watching something once at normal speed make it difficult and your player got awfully close, though on replay it would have been overturned.

Good luck, go pound Oakland.

check out my vacation chalet, great getaway fro Atlantens:

www.happbearchalet.com

By The Real Truth

October 26, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

To answer your question Scooter the reason why the idiots didn’t call it a TD was because they actually blew the play dead when the Eagle player touched the ball which by the way makes absolutely no sense because then you’re saying that Jennings didn’t touch the ball…unless there’s a rule about not advancing the fumble…I know at certain times a fumble can’t be advance but i’m to out of it to try and remember.

Anyway to the people that keep talkin about evening things up because the hit on Ryan wasn’t late…you don’t even it up by missing the call on the muff. You even it up by calling another personal foul on the other team which that did happen when they called the questionable late hit on Lawyer which to me didn’t look all that late since the receiver was trying to turn around to catch the ball, but what do I know…I’m biased.

By rick

October 26, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

Adam Jennings has got to go…even though the call was lame, Jennings made a bad play for the ball. With the game on the line…you got to play smarter.

By Steve

October 26, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

As much as the muff changed the possible outcome of the game, the real BAD CALL came on first and goal from the one and a half yard line.

You are an NFL team with a power running back. You run the ball four stinking times at that yard line if you have to. Enough with these STUPID fade routes. They were made popular by teams that couldn’t finish using the run in the red zone, and that is the only time they should be used.

Mike Smith and whoever called that fade route lost the game for the Falcons right there. They could have gotten within a field goal and had momentum at that point, instead they lost momentum and gave up points on the next Eagles drive that all but sealed the deal. Pathetic.

I will give the players a good grade for trying to come back, but that call on second and goal for the fade is what ruined this game.

By Scooter

October 26, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

Kevin are you sure? I’ve seen it before. I”m not trying to be a jerk. I might be wrong or just stupid who knows?

By rms

October 26, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

we had back to back losing seasons when we had Vick you moron. See how much of an idiot you are Vick Supporter. Now you see why I said I looked up the word idiot in the websters dictionary and it said “see vick supporter”

By Scottbravesfan

October 26, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Terrible call. The officials should be fined for blowing such a HUGE call. The Falcons had all the momentum at that point and who knows if they would have marched down field and scored. Sorry excuse for a ref.

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry. Michael would not let me see him this weekend. What am I to do?

By Showme$$$

October 26, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

I agree with falcfan1. Adam Jennings sucked last season and is incredibly worse this year. It was a bad call but an even worse decision as usual for Jennings to even be around the ball.

Jennings showed promise while competing with Allen Rossum for the return job back then. But what happened? We keep this incompetent idiot and Rossum goes to Pittsburgh and makes a return for a touchdown in Week 1 that year. It was like Jennings stopped trying after he got the job.

I’m like the rest of you. I wonder how he even made the team this year. I’m certain he wouldn’t have if that kid from UGA hadn’t got hurt in the last preseason game this year.

By dave

October 26, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Kevin - I can tell you’re not really that stupid that you completely missed my point, so I guess you’ve got some other agenda…

By booker

October 26, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Malarkey and the refs lost the game for the birds.

By Ron Mexico

October 26, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Falcons were robbed today!

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

Dave I get your point. I have no other agenda. My point was everyone seems to be focusing on one play …that play was also no guarentee that the Falcons would have scored. My point is they had other chances to win. They left 7 points on the field. Had they scored….muff could have been a non issue

By DHD

October 26, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

We didn’t even get a kiss.

By A.S.

October 26, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Yes the officials blew the call. You can’t assume we would have scored but at least we would have had a shot.

Anyways the rules are the rules which state the booths can not challenge with over 2 minutes. The issue is, this is there 3-4 blown call refs had made this season that have changed the outcome of the game. The refs should have consulted with each other and “sneaked” a replay if one was shown. Goddel does a great job with punishing players off the field, I just wish he did as good of a job with punish his refs.

By Max

October 26, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Roddy White dropped a touchdown pass. Brian Finneran dropped a touchdown pass. We ran a fade on 2nd and goal from about the one yard line and the ball was picked off. ALL of these plays were more important than the missed call by the refs. But, clearly Jennings is too indecisive and kind of a hot dog- and in that situation with the game on the line, he should have either committed to catch the ball or stay far away from it. Getting that close and backing away at the last second invites disaster. I agree with the other posters that Jennings is not a good return guy. Why not use Norwood?

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

For those still not understanding why they didn’t allow the muff TD. A muff cannot be advanced by either team until possession occurs before it can be advanced. Therefore DEAD BALL after recovery.

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

@Tron5000, Vick did better with that team than Ryan will. Vick 09.

By e.b.

October 26, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t see how they (Eagles) outplayed Falcons? Think about it. The only difference really were the running game was better for the Eagles, but the two crucial plays against the Falcons were the thing that hurt the most. If they run in on on 2nd and Goal instead of the fade/INT, Falcons would’ve been leading, and possibly we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now. Falcons could’ve and should’ve won the game. They are better than the Eagles, and I’m still not buying that Carolina or Tampa Bay is better than Atlanta. Only time will tell.

By DHD

October 26, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

I agree….the fade route lost the game. We had 2nd and goal on the 2. Turner can’t run that in? I think the coaching has been great, but that call was bad.

Oh well, maybe we;ll be 5-3 after Oakland, and NOBODY here would have predicted that.

By pat

October 26, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

whata complete abortion of a call. The refs sucked…Adam Jennings sucks all the time…and the coaching staff sucked in this game. F*** the NFL….

By pat

October 26, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

what a complete abortion of a call. The refs sucked…Adam Jennings sucks all the time…and the coaching staff sucked in this game. F*** the NFL….

By Pete

October 26, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Well, for the 400th time over the past 43 years, the Falcons beat THEMSELVES. Some things NEVER change.

By A.S.

October 26, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Max I do not recall White dropping a TD. And I would not say anything negative about his performance.

Finneran should have caught that ball, he is a veteran on this team and needs to show he can be trusted.

By rms

October 26, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Dang Pat, you aiiight!! We will be alright, we got Oakland next week. Remember at the beginning of the season we were suppossed to lose these games. TO Vick Supporter: Quit tossing M. Vick salad YOU GROUPIE!!

By willlie

October 26, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

Totally inexcusible call by the ref….the fade in the in zone was a bad call and a worse throw. But…we go on.

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

Vick 09. Vikings.

By Cazz

October 26, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Bad day in the A! Why? Team didnot play 4 quarters. The NFL (NOT FOR LONG) Can you say as inconsistent as the next judgement call. Yeah the Even Up League! Is everybody 4-3 yet?

By Terry

October 26, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

It’s the death of common sense. Why didn’t the refs ask for the replay since it was clearly a “tough call” to make. What a waste of 3 hours.

By SPACE MOUNTAIN 2

October 26, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

Where the hell is that overpaid fullback Ovie “what the hell his last name is” Magehilli? Can anybody answer that one for me please?

By mixxo

October 26, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

There’s gonna be games like this, hopefully, not many more this year. Ouch!

Just gotta put it behind us and go back to work. We’ll be OK!

By Scooter

October 26, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Sorry Kevin that still didn’t clarify or make to much sense on THAT CALL. I call BULL CRAP!!! SORRY But I agree to disagree with you.

By uwant12

October 26, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

The falcons should stick to what they do best RUN THE BALL at least 60% of the time. We have a rookie QB that will get better with time. There are to many dropped passes on offense. And the only high percentage passing play we have is the quick out. Every team knows this now. Our defense is fair but our D-line has no push besides big GRADY. We throw our bodies at people instead of wrapping them up, and Keith Brooking is too slow and old. We will be much better after the next NFL draft.WE ARE BETTER THAN LAST YEAR just not quite where we will be!

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

To Vick supporters I can’t believe there are actually people stupid enough to support that thug. He is in prison which is too good for him. When he gets out I hope someone lets him experience what he did to those animals. When he speaks you understand how stupid he is…..a waste of a human being and he belongs in the gutter

By Roadoggxc

October 26, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

I think the OC cost us when he decided to throw a fade to white & not just run it with Turner. The worst is we come away with an easy 3. Best is what would probably happen is we get the 6. Either way the eagles didn’t stomp us. We’re competing with the best teams in the league with a young team. Major credit to the coaching staff. We’ll pick up a win in Oakland next week.

By dirty bird

October 26, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

No. We lost the game when we called a PASS play with 2nd and goal from the ONE YARD LINE! Had 3 opportunities to move the ball 3 feet, yet we call a pass play?

By Flafalcon

October 26, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

Should have ran the ball in the red zone and not try to throw a fade route That is what cost us the game. jennings sucks

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

@Kevin. VICK 09. Put that in your pipe and smoke it

By Jordan

October 26, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

No doubt a terrible call but the fade route call by Melarky really cost us this game.

By Roadoggxc

October 26, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

I think the OC cost us when he decided to throw a fade to white & not just run it with Turner. The worst is we come away with an easy 3. Best is what would probably happen is we get the 6. Either way the eagles didn’t stomp us. We’re competing with the best teams in the league with a young team. Major credit to the coaching staff. We’ll pick up a win in Oakland next week.

By Ramguy

October 26, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Hey Vick supporter what’s the problem, you don’t like a QB that uses his head for more than a hat rack? Vick =strong arm, fast and quick legs and tiny brain. Vick at QB against Chicago in the last seconds= sideline pass to Jenkins, 10 yards over his head.

By Kashi

October 26, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Shame NFL. NFL ref MUST use replays on critical calls. Otherwise get rid of replays and fire all lazy assssssss refs. It was a very bad call by ref today and it shows how ugly NFL is getting alone with baseball in America. What was Fox announcer smoking today? Guy was going on and on like he cares about phillys.

By Jordan

October 26, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Jennings is the worst punt returner ever. He needs to make the fair catch or run far away from the ball.

By BCS Slave

October 26, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

The refs blew it. That call DID cost us the game. It happened at a crucial time and gave Philly at least a field goal. All they needed was three to seal the deal. The fact that we dropped a couple of touchdown passes earlier in the game is irrelevant. The fact is that with just over 2 minutes left in the game, we should have had the chance to win the game and the refs blew the call.

With that said, Jennings should have either fielded the ball or been 20 yards away from it. He misplayed it, plain and simple.

I do believe the league should go with the college reply system. If the booth could review that play, we aren’t talking about it now. The NFL is just too arrogant.

By brandon

October 26, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

if he touched the ball like the officials claimed, why did the eagles not score on the return of the muffed punt?

By Vick Supporter

October 26, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

*@Ramguy *, we will see in 09, won’t we? For you fans to say that Vick was nothing just proves how stupid you are. Vick will win it all. Its just what I believe, no biggie, my caucasian friend.

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Scooter-Then do yourself a favor and look up the rule. Its been that way for over 15 years…hasn’t changed and very easy to understand……fumbles can be advanced…… muff’s ….not so much…..maybe this will be easier for you….A MUFF IS NOT A FUMBLE JENKINS NEVER HAD POSSESSION>>>>What is so hard for you to understand

By San Antonio Falcon

October 26, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

2 things, of course hind sight is 20-20, bad call on the fade, it just gives the defense a chance to make a play. Coach Smith, hang on to at least 1 TO. One other thing, score some points in the 3rd quarter would have helped too! Adam Jennings should be gone, he sucks!

By Halimaw

October 26, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

The Falcons were robbed. I have NO DOUBT this heinous call cost them the game, and maybe a playoff berth. The officiating in the NFL is atrocious! This year is more apparent than ever. It reminds me of the NBA. Is Tim Donaghy the new head of officials? Is Roger Goodell involved with organized crime. Congress needs to take a serious look at this. This is a real problem compared to the steroid issue. Mike Pereira spends all his time defending every call blown by the officials. He needs to clean things up or face a serious investigation himself.

By Halimaw

October 26, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

The Falcons were robbed. I have NO DOUBT this heinous call cost them the game, and maybe a playoff berth. The officiating in the NFL is atrocious! This year it is more apparent than ever. It reminds me of the NBA. Is Tim Donaghy the new head of officials? Is Roger Goodell involved with organized crime. Congress needs to take a serious look at this. This is a real problem compared to the steroid issue. Mike Pereira spends all his time defending every call blown by the officials. He needs to clean things up or face a serious investigation himself.

By John

October 26, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

I BLAME JENNINGS CATCH THE F-ING BALL OR GET OUT OF THE WAY

By froggy

October 26, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

1) The fade is not a bad call in that situation, just terribly executed. As Ryan said, he just made a poor throw. With the way Philly was stuffing the run, the play call made sense, though. 2) Some of us were calling for Jennings’ head weeks ago. He decision making is just abysmal, and that’s half the job of the punt returner. How do you just go though two weeks of “self-scouting” and not make any changes there? For a very good coaching staff, and they are, it’s mystifying. 3) Have to admit, our run defense suffered terribly after Jamal got his bell rung. Love Biermann’s potential, but boy he was getting smoked at the point of attack. If he doesn’t get a lot stronger this off season he’ll be out of the league. 4) Brooking cannot even run down a 290 lb fullback, Klecko, that’s how slow he is now. Sad. 5) Finneran looked like his old self today — the old Fin that dropped pass after pass. 6) Still proud of the Birds, without a terrible call and a terrible decision by Jennings we might have stolen this one.

By Falcons Fan

October 26, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Once again, the refs blow another game for us. I’m so sick of it. My god. Is it too much to ask for a fairly-called game? Falcons won today!! Great playing yall!! We’re definitely going back to the playoffs this year!!!! GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Kevin

October 26, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

To Vick Supporter . Wow that was clever…..so there is someone who is just as stupid as Vick. Enjoy your pipe…and watch your old Vick videos because thats all you have loser.

By uwant12

October 26, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

The falcons should stick to what they do best RUN THE BALL at least 60% of the time. We have a rookie QB that will get better with time. There are to many dropped passes on offense. And the only high percentage passing play we have is the quick out. Every team knows this now. Our defense is fair but our D-line has no push besides big GRADY. We throw our bodies at people instead of wrapping them up, and Keith Brooking is too slow and old. We will be much better after the next NFL draft.WE ARE BETTER THAN LAST YEAR just not quite where we will be!

By jrod

October 26, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

If a team wants/needs to review a call and they have no T/O’s remaining, they should be able to throw the red flag. If they lose the review, they then could be penalized 15 yds for throwing the flag w/o a timeout. This seems reasonable to me since the purpose of the review, after all, is to get the call right! This rule must be changed!

By Michael

October 26, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

Bad Call. These refs should NEVER Work again in the League.

By tony

October 26, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

what is wrong with u people. it’s jennings responseibility to be in the right position to catch the football. the officials made a judgement call that the football touched part of jennings body.

had jenning gotten out of the way when he knew it wasn’t possible to catch the football, this would not be an issue.

By bravesfanbob

October 26, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing to me how much the NFL needs to learn from College football. Had this been college, they would have gotten it right. What a stupid rule that even when it’s so obvious the refs blew it, if you don’t have a timeout, you have to be stuck with the wrong call. This was much worse than the call against San Diego at Denver earlier this year. This is one they could have chosen to get toghther and get the correct call. No whistle had stopped the play. The NFL needs to change the rule to automatically review if necessary, all plays in the last 5 minutes of a half. If you have blown all of your timeouts before the 5 minute mark, you need to be punished. But how should Mike Smith be punished for stopping the clock with under 3 minutes left to give his team a chance to win? This is as stupid a rule as the tuck rule, and the overtime coin toss, (they need to allow both teams to have the ball on offense). If Roger Godell spent as much time trying to make his game better as he does trying to suspend players, this would be the best game in the world. But he has allowed College football to pass it with flying colors!

By Sunshine

October 26, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

N F L stands for ‘Not Freakin Lookin’ which is what the so called officials were doing in todays game. If they can’t officiate properly, then find them another line of work. Why is every play not reviewed up in the booth. A missed call such as that one should have been caught. The rule that the Falcons had no timeouts is a dumb rule and should be trashed. A blown call is a blown call, period. Go Falcons!

By ken j

October 26, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

The falcons was robbed. The refs blew the game. The NFL should review the tape. A terrible call.

By Ramguy

October 26, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

we will see in 09, won’t we? For you fans to say that Vick was nothing just proves how stupid you are. Vick is going to be in NFL in 09? Yeah right. We’ll just wait and look out the window for that. Besides he’ll might do something stupid and get sent back to the slammer or fail a drug test. Vick was as good in his 1st year as a starter as he was his last. Teams just learned how to defense him. Sure he was going to get his yards but he wasn’t going beat anyone on a consistent basis either. But don’t worry maybe he can get a job at UGA (not that they would have him) because he sure knows how to make those dogs fight.

By bill

October 26, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter,

Did ANYONE ask for your half-A@@ed opinion. Now go back to re-stocking the Ripple and MD 20/20 shelves and leave this blog to the real fans.

And Joey Porter, quite a set of opinions you have there. Your remedial studies teachers must he proud!!

By bravesfanbob

October 26, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

Tony,

I think this is an issue because Jennings DID use his judgement to get out of the way, and did so successfully! Go drink your kool-aid and vote for Obama! We’ll all be here to sing you the Dragnet song….. Duh, Duh Duh Duh….Duh, Duh Duh Duh DUUUUUHHHHH!

By btwarren

October 26, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

Yeah the call was bad, but it never should have come to that. The Falcons had plenty of chances to win this game and there is plenty of blame to go around. Let’s start with the Rookie Head coach. This game turned around before half time. The falcons were trying to score right before the half with two minutes or so left, failed to convert 3rd down and ended up giving the ball back to the eagles. The eagles ended up with a field goal and took the lead, never to look back. If Coach Smith had taken a little more time off the clock maybe eagels do not score. I don’t blame him for trying to score, just manage the time better. After half time and with the lead if you all recall is when the eagles started really putting pressure on Ryan. Also for the Rookie Head coach, fade route at the 1. Yeah i know eagles were stopping the run all day, but in Coach Smith’s own words, he wanted a big bruising running back. Then why not use him from the 1 yard line. Now for the rookie QB. for the most part, i have no complaints about Ryan. Very solid for a rookie, but what was that throw on the fade route. That would have changed the game as well. but also, as i said, should have run the ball in the first place. Now for Finneran, Ryan practially hands him the ball in the end zone. I mean put it right in his hands and he drops it. This was costly because it wasted time. Time that we needed, that maybe Smith does not use his time out and maybe this horrible call never happens.

Also as an aside. We may never know how good Roddy White is becasue there are no other receivers on this team to take the heat off him. I’m surprised he gets open at all because i’m sure he faces the best cover guy on the other side and the safety must rotate his way because there is no threat on the other side. I swear Michael Jenkins looks like he does not want to get open some times. He is averaging just over two catches a game. That is 1 catch per half. That is not good for your number two receiver. This is not the days of Vick when he only threw 15 times. Ryan is putting plenty of balls in the air. Get in the game Jenkins

By Jerry

October 26, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

The reason the Falcons lost this week is because of Arthur Blank! I told my wife a few days ago the Falcons would lose because Blank had to talk about Vick in an interview. He just can’t get over his “love affair” with Vick. If you read this blank, please don’t mention that loser Vick again! We have a great QB now and the players and fans are positive again. That should be enough, Blank. Long live Matt Ryan!!!!

By Sunshine

October 26, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

I watched Vick play most of his games here and I was NOT that impressed with him. Matt is much more impressive at quarterback. He plays like a seasoned professional which is what Atlanta needed. Nothing against Vick personally, just think matt is a better quarterback.

By saint

October 26, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Adam Jennings has a Love-Hate relationship with the football, he can’t decide if he wants to catch it or not. We must get a better returner than Adam.

The NFL rules for video review of a play in the last 2 mins need to be changed. We want the correct ruling on a play, not a guess!!

By Robopop

October 26, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

I have long believed that since the instant replay rules came into effect officiating on the field has gone downhill fast. Why should the official on the field worry about making the right call when there’s someone upstairs in the booth that can overrule his call? They will tell you that it is not what they’re thinking but we ALL know better! Adam Jennings deserves a little of the blame, too. His indecision led directly to the bad, (I say) bad, (I say again) BAD call. All in all there was just NO EXCUSE for such terrible officiating. NONE!

By Max

October 26, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

AS: regarding Roddy White’s performance today, I based my earlier comments on the call by the Falcons radio crew, since I was listening on the interstate. I admit not seeing it myself, but they said he ran a poor/lazy route on one pattern which led to Ryan’s first interception and they said he dropped the pass in the first quarter which would have been a touchdown. I’m a Roddy White fan and think he has really stepped it up this year, but he was slow out of the gate today. And, my whole point was there were many factors contributing to the loss today- one bad call does not make or break the game.

By 2legit2quit

October 26, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

The college system is the way to go when it comes to replays, there have been numerous bad calls this year in the entire NFL.
But, we should have never been in this situation a)What was Mike Smith thinking passing the ball when you have one of the best rushing teams in the NFL on 2nd and 1 on their goal line. We should have just punched it in and stopped all this gimick stuff. The INT killed the momentum of the game
Still stoked about the Falcons, they went on the road and played a very tough team. Very Very proud of the effort and proud to be a Falcon fan again.

By 2legit2quit

October 26, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

The college system is the way to go when it comes to replays, there have been numerous bad calls this year in the entire NFL.
But, we should have never been in this situation a)What was Mike Smith thinking passing the ball when you have one of the best rushing teams in the NFL on 2nd and 1 on their goal line. We should have just punched it in and stopped all this gimick stuff. The INT killed the momentum of the game
Still stoked about the Falcons, they went on the road and played a very tough team. Very Very proud of the effort and proud to be a Falcon fan again.

By Sue

October 26, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Come people I saw the play; ball hit Jennings not once but two times. Suck it up and get over it.

By Sue

October 26, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Come on people I saw the play; ball hit Jennings not once but two times. Suck it up and get over it.

By tony

October 26, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

bravesfanbob, stop drinking your p** son. when u do that hopefully by tomorrow u will see that the football dropped inches from jenning’s foot.

if by then u still thing jenning u good judgement all i can tell u is keep drinking your p**. lol!

By bravesfanbob

October 26, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Sue,

I have the name and number of a good optomotrist. Too bad you don’t see well enough that if I left it for you, you could read it.

By Rabbit

October 26, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Halimaw——You are dead on, i could not have said it better myself

By brian

October 26, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

This was without a doubt the refs call. The ref was standing but 2 or 3 yards away from him. They should do what college does and have the box call any review they want. It is the only fair way.

By mecca

October 26, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Yes this was a very bad call….the falcons should have never put themselves in that position however the refs need to do a better job of getting calls right. I was clear as day on replay that jennings never touched the ball so the refs should have seen that. over the last couple of years it has been a real shame at how bad some of the calls have been. had the refs made the right call then the falcons would have at least had a chance to come back but again the falcons should have never put themselves in that position. BLIND AND DEF ARE THE STUPID REFS!!!

By ..22 SECONDS too early

October 26, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

*What a stupid rule for so called *PROFESSIONAL football.CHANGE THE RULES to protect teams from the UNPROFESSIONAL officials.—-totally ridiculous !

By Dave

October 26, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

Sorry folks — the blown call did not cost the Falcons the game. Whoever called the fade route from the 2 yard line cost the game. If the Falcons could have run the ball in they would have never been in the position they were at the end of the game. This is a good young team and is progressing faster than expected — they played a great game on the road against an excellent team today. Hang your heads high Falcons!

By dale

October 26, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Adam Jennings seems to be an ok punt returner when he CATCHES the ball. Why does he let so many punts hit the ground? I was frustrated by this earlier in the game. At least fair catch them for crying out loud.

By woogidy

October 26, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

Singletary should have been there. He could have told that official to get off the field and go to his locker.

By spotts

October 26, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Wow, do I see some biases here? Granted, it was a bad call, but:

1) It was a CLOSE call. The refs are fine and shouldn’t be fined/fired/killed/etc. The back judge had to make a quick call on a close play.

2) Those of you saying that “every play should be reviewable” would change your minds when games take 5 hours.

3) Jennings made a bad play anyway. He SHOULD have muffed it, even if he didn’t touch it.

4) It’s not like we deserved to win. Philly almost had 100 more yards than us.

By Redclay

October 26, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

CUT A. Jennings, K. Brooking and B. Finnerinan. Ohh, I forgot… SLAP the F*** out of A. Jennings. Next week Oakland will get it.

By MikeSmithisaRetard

October 26, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Mike Smith lost this game. On 2nd and one at the goal line he calls that horrible fade route???? You either pound it with Turner two times, even 3 if you have to…you score 6 guaranteed! Or you play action opening up other options. A fade route??? What is with coaches these days getting fancy at the goal line. YOU POUND THE ROCK MIKE!!!! Stop being stupid! You lost the game for us today!!!

By Dave

October 26, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

SH!T HAPPENS, just let it go and focus on winning next week. At least the Falcons should have won.

By Weetheresearcher

October 26, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Adam Jennings has to go when we come back home for the Saints game. Put 83 the rookie back and let him return punts. I was on the phone with my friend when the punt took place and he said watch this guy screw it up. He poses no threat for other teams and you never know what you are going to get with him. No More than seven yards a return is the only thing you can count on. Look at teams like Houston that have real game breakers touch the ball. Just look on the other side of the field today! You cannot tell me you were not a little nerves ever time we had to kick to Jackson today.
Even if Adam Jennings gets free he will be caught from behind. He just does not have any football speed. I cannot believe he tricked them and made the team again this year. If Brown from UGA did not get hurt Jennings would not be with us. Make a move and get him out of here. Do we still have that rookie on the practice squad from Bethune- Cookman? Please do not have 81 on the team by the home game in Nov. I know the officials messed the call up put Jennings is not the answer at PR he has had almost two seasons to prove that he is not the guy.

(Pee-Wee) Red Oak Welcome Park Hall of Fame

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 26, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

No doubt the call was horrible and could have swung the game the Falcons’ way. You know what else could have swung the game to the Falcons? A properly thrown fade route to Roddy White in the end zone, instead of the horribly underthrown one that got picked off. I’m not a big fan of assigning blame to external sources when better play could have made the difference, and in this case one throw could have been the difference.

By Jeff

October 26, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Something to think about… Why was the play called dead when the eagles touched the ball… If the punt was muffed, shouldn’t the eagles have scored when they caught the ball and ran it in? If you are going to call the play dead, the ball should have been given to the falcons.

By Ron

October 26, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

I took the eagles and gave 9 points. Then my NEW YORK FOOTBALL GIANTS beat the Steelers and now I am so happy I don’t want to rant and rave on here. This however is not the first blown call in a football game and it probably won’t be the last, it is just part of the game. Come to my local watering hole tomorrow and I’ll buy you all a beer to help ease your pain.

By rms

October 26, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Vick Supporter, you are tossing a mean salad! How much longer are u going to “slob the knob” YOU GROUPIE

By Jon

October 26, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Jeff, is this your first game buddy? you want a lollipop too? on a muffed punt the kicking team can recover, not advance.. same as on a onside kick.. if it is not fumbled, but muffed (which is a different term) then the team can only recover.. atleast know what your going to blog about….

By Blind Mellongellon

October 26, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

Jeff, A rule change that now says a muffed punt cannot be advanced. The ball is down where it is recovered.

The punt was not actually muffed. It was muffed by the officials. It should have been downed and Falcon’s ball with 2:20 left to play.

I know all that because I watched the replay on the AJC. The official stated that as the explanation for the ruling on the field. What I don’t know is everything else. I don’t live in Atlanta, so I had to “watch” on the Internet. Can someone tell me how many times Matt Ryan has thrown an interception inside the red zone? Is this three or four times now? First and goal at the two and they cannot score, then penalized, then an interception. THAT lost the game.

Maybe the Falcons can take Ryan out in the red zone and just direct snap to a running back, or put a back-up in. Something has to change in the red zone or it will be 5-11 this year. Other than Oakland, everything else looks like a big hill to climb.

By Zach

October 26, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

The thing that irks me even more than the muffed punt crap call is that the officials didn’t even confer to talk about such a monumental call in the game. The head ref took two seconds to hear the call from the other official when they knew that the play could not be reviewed. It was just terrible officiating and the rules or people officiating has to change. It’s an embarrassment to the league and extremely frustrating to be a falcons fan after that loss.

By Jeff

October 26, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Thank you for the info Jon. No this is not my first game. I have been watching football for a while and have never knew about this rule. I guess every muffed punt I have seen has been recovered with the person diving on the ball. I do not sit down and review the rule book before every game I watch. Sorry for the erroneous blog.

By Jon

October 26, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

and another thing, i support Michael Vick. he energized our city and made us proud to be a Falcon’s fan.. he made a mistake, let it go atlanta! looks like were doing fine now, so stop sulking .. if i would be mad at anyone its Bobby “Mother F*g” Petrino.. i hope he has a losing season every year at arkansaw (i used to love arkansaw football). he a quitter and someone i never want to be associated with!! i spit at the name Petrino

By your_dad

October 26, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

go hitler go!!!!!

By your_dad

October 26, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

go hitler go!!!!!

By your_dad

October 26, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

go hitler go!!!!!

By JOn

October 26, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

Blind Mellongellon I think your actually more of an idiot than Jeff. its one thing to be oblivious, but to be oblivious and oblivious to being oblivious.. well damn, your beyond help.

By Daniel

October 26, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

It has nothing to do with Jennings. He was smart to back away from the ball instead of risking a fumble. It is the Refs fault. They are getting paid big money to make good calls not bad ones. It was a game changing moments that took Atlantas chance at winning away. If something is that close then it should be looked at. I bet the ref that made that call sees the mistake and feels like the biggest idiot which he is.

By MRDONUT

October 26, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

YEAH, THE CALL COST THE FALCONS THE GAME. AND COACH SMITH SHOULD HAVE SAVED ONE TIMEOUT FOR THE END OF GAME.

By al

October 27, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

Another phantom call in an NFL game. It would be understandable if the refs blew a call by not calling a muff punt when the ball actually hit a player because they had a bad angle, but this makes absolutely no sense. The refs called something that never physically happened. It’s just plain stupid.

NFL refs are flag and whistle happy. Almost every game has at least one phantom call every week. Unfortunately, this season they are frequently coming at crucial moments possible affecting the outcome of the game.

By MRDONUT

October 27, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

HEY JON. MIKE VICK MADE A LAUGHING STOCK OUT OF THE FALCONS, THE CITY, AND HIMSELF. HE MADE A ARTHUR BLANK LOOK LIKE A FOOL. I TRAVEL AND WHEN PEOPLE FIND OUT I’M FROM ATLANTA, I GET VICK AND FALCON JOKES. NOW WE HAVE FOOTBALL PEOPLE IN CHARGE. RYAN IS A PROFESSIONAL QB ANY REAL FALCON OR FOOTBALL FAN CAN BE PROUD OF, AND COACH SMITH IS A NO NONSENSE PROFESSIONAL. IF YOU CAN’T SEE THE C%*P THAT VICK PUT THIS TOWN THROUGH YOU MUST HAVE A DIFFERENT MORAL COMPASS.

By jon

October 27, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

aww mrdonut, dont be mad.. all i am saying is that Mike Vick made a mistake in his young life.. doesnt mean that we have to forgive or forget, all it means is that we should not dwell on it.. i specifically said

“and another thing, i support Michael Vick. he energized our city and made us proud to be a Falcon’s fan.. he made a mistake, let it go atlanta! looks like were doing fine now, so stop sulking .. “

so, atlanta, stop crying and lets start killing other NFL teams… (not innocent dogs)

MrDonut, hope that made sense.. because like that doughnut that your probably eating rite now instead of having sex, because your not attractive enough for the opposite gender, your brain has a hole in it too.. so shove this message in it.. it might just make you smarter .:-)

By Blind Mellongellon

October 27, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

JOn,

I believe an idiot is one who is oblivious to how to correctly spell the contraction of the verb “to be”, as in the second person, present tense, “you are.” You did it twice (“your actually more…”, and “your beyond”). Come on dumbass, it is “you’re”, not “your.” Lazy Pea-brain! Write out both words if you can’t (cannot) contract them properly. Especially when calling someone an idiot.

By jon

October 27, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this

i dont (don’t) claim to be a english (language arts) major.. just stating a point.. oh and i put the words you might ridicule me on in parenthesis… by the way, you didnt (did not or didn’t) even rebut my first post, that your (you are or you’re) oblivious to being oblivious.. please dont (do not or don’t) reproduce.. theres (there is or there’s) enough dumb people in the world.. why add to that number

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 27, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

“IF YOU CAN’T SEE THE C%*P THAT VICK PUT THIS TOWN THROUGH YOU MUST HAVE A DIFFERENT MORAL COMPASS. “

William Tecumseh Sherman “put this town through” things. William Joseph Simmons made a “laughingstock” out of this town. Michael Vick did neither of those things — he simply did something stupid in his spare time and is paying the price and then some. There’s a big difference. What a football player does in his spare time in no way reflects upon the citizens of the city he happens to play in. If it bothers you that much that idiots in other cities make dogfighting jokes to you because you’re from Atlanta, you need a girlfriend.

You’re right about one thing though: the Falcons now have football people in charge. A direct contrast from Jim Mora and Rich McKay.

By Brent S.

October 27, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this

First of all, the Falcons got screwed PERIOD!!! Secondly, our secondary SUCKS!!!!! Thirdly, why isn’t Turner hitting the holes with power and cutting back across the field like he did the first three games that got him averaging 200 ypg. Next, why can B. Finn NOT catch a ball right in the numbers and catch others that are three feet over his head. Lastly, I am sick and dang TIRED of games this year, be it college or pro, being decided by bad officiating. If a team loses b/c they sucked that day..fine but don’t have a team lose b/c of a BS call. Falcons had there chances to win during the progression of the game YES, but they DID put themselves in a position to win at the end and THAT is what a good team does!!!!! Again, FALCONS GOT SCREWED!!!!!!!

By kingbyrd

October 27, 2008 2:53 AM | Link to this

Hell yeah!!!!!!! We were robbed.

By Rico

October 27, 2008 3:04 AM | Link to this

Throwing a fade route pass to Roddy White at 2nd and Goal and then was intercepted changed the game for us. What A dumb play call!!! Why not let Turner run it in?

By Rico

October 27, 2008 3:04 AM | Link to this

Throwing a fade route pass to Roddy White at 2nd and Goal and then was intercepted changed the game for us. What A dumb play call!!! Why not let Turner run it in?

By Weetheresearcher

October 27, 2008 3:18 AM | Link to this

Adam Jennings has to go when we come back home for the Saints game. Put 83 the rookie back and let him return punts. I was on the phone with my friend when the punt took place and he said watch this guy screw it up. He poses no threat for other teams and you never know what you are going to get with him. No More than seven yards a return is the only thing you can count on. Look at teams like Houston that have real game breakers touch the ball. Just look on the other side of the field today! You cannot tell me you were not a little nerves ever time we had to kick to Jackson today.
Even if Adam Jennings gets free he will be caught from behind. He just does not have any football speed. I cannot believe he tricked them and made the team again this year. If Brown from UGA did not get hurt Jennings would not be with us. Make a move and get this out of here. Do we still have that rookie on the practice squad from Bethune- Cookman? Please do not have 81 on the team by the home game. I know the officials messed the call up put Jennings is not the answer at punt return he has had almost two seasons to prove that.

By NikkiFree

October 27, 2008 4:44 AM | Link to this

That was a bad call. However, like the first poster stated, I never understood how Jennings made the team in the first place. He can’t return punts and kickoffs effectively. He’s a lousey WR.

By getcrunk

October 27, 2008 6:26 AM | Link to this

Awful call, but it only cost the Falcons a chance. How many possessions did the Falcons have in the game? Maybe 10? 12? How many times did they score a TD? TWO. Come on, don’t say that the Falcons would surely have scored.

I am a huge Falcons fan, but let’s face the facts here. Sometimes horrible calls go our way, sometimes they go the other way. Is the replay rule bad? Perhaps, but nothing you can do about it.

What about Ryan’s INTs? Ah, yeah, they didn’t cost the Falcons the game at all, right? It truly was all because the bad call. (Sense my sarcasm?)

Moral of the story: manage your timeouts. This is an NFL coach here - rookie or not, he should have known that, or someone upstairs should have been able to tell him that.

By "Charles", The Original

October 27, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this

As the legendary Georgia Bulldogs’ radio personality Larry Munson might say, “Get the picture.” The score is 20-7, Eagles. With 3:55 left in the fourth quarter, Matt Ryan hit Roddy White in the back of the end zone for a touchdown; score 20-14 Eagles. On the ensuing kickoff, the Falcons’ defense held the Eagles’ offense to three plays and out. And the opportune time for victory had presented itself.

The Atlanta Falcons smelled blood. The Eagles punted to the Falcons’ forty yard line with 2:30 remaining on the clock. With momentum on their side, the Falcons had the Eagles down for the kill and were poised to pick them apart with 2:22 remaining on the clock. But it was not to materialize. Officials of the Audubon Society charged with the preservation of the bald eagle chased the Falcons away. And the Eagles escaped an almost certain demise.

By eagles fan

October 27, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this

I thought it was a great call. lol

looking at the punt in reg. speed he looked at if he muffed the punt. only in slow mo it seemed i didn’t touch it so lay off.

GO EAGLES GO PHILLY

By Kelly, Suwanee

October 27, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this

Regardless of the muffed punt/missed call, Keith Brooking needs to sit. He is always around the ball but always a step or two or three late. He’s he guy that is the second or third to “gang tackle” when the tackle has already been made and usually, by Milloy or the DB’s. You’re a good guy, Keith Brooking, but your lack of performance hurts this Team! Hang um up on your terms but hang ‘em up!

By Kelly, Suwanee

October 27, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this

Regardless of the muffed punt/missed call, Keith Brooking needs to sit. He is always around the ball but always a step or two or three late. He’s he guy that is the second or third to “gang tackle” when the tackle has already been made and usually, by Milloy or the DB’s. You’re a good guy, Keith Brooking, but your lack of performance hurts this Team! Hang um up on your terms but hang ‘em up!

By vuduchld

October 27, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this

The game was lost not on the muffed punt by Jennings, but by Lawyer Milloy’s stupid penalty. The Falcons were down by 10 with momentum and getting the ball back before that penalty. That lost the game

By johndawg

October 27, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this

I didn’t see the last 3 1/2 minutes… my DVR cut off! Is there any video on the net of the play with Jennings?

I agree that Milloy’s penalty was stupid… He’s better than that. Sure was a nice hit though…

By had enough

October 27, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this

No, that call did not cause us to lose the game the coach did. Yes, it was a terrible call and I know that the Falcons would have scored and won, but the Falcons could have been up by 14 points, if not 7 at the least and he should not have used the last time out in the game with over 2 minutes left. Instead of the coach giving Turner the ball on the 1 yard line, he throws the ball that ended in an interception. Finneran should have caught the ball when he had the chance. It is not all the ref’s fault that the Falcon’s lost, he just put a stop to the last possible opportunity.

By Mike

October 27, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this

Adam jennings almost muffed one earlier. He has got to make the fair catch decision at the top of the ball flight. not when its 20 ft from ground. FAIR CATCH or GET OUT OF THE WAY. Basic!!!!

By Drew

October 27, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

Why was this not a touchdown if it was ruled a touched ball. Refs screwed this up! And the Falcons.

By PAP

October 27, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

Yes the Falcons did lose because of a bad call, but it wasn’t the refs who blew this game for the Falcons. It was the bad call to not run it into the end zone when they were on the 1 foot line. What a bad call. Matt Ryan has shown he can lead a team even with bad play calling from his coaches.

By Bullsh!t

October 27, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

That dumba## should not have been that close to the ball. Even a kid in high school knows that. He should be cut. Aside from that, the refs have been the freakin worst this year. After that horrible call, we never had a chance. They took one from us and the eagles better beware. I would be very surprised if the league doesn’t say something. And Hochuli wasn’t the bad guy this time, but if there is no fine for this call, the way they are fining Hines Ward for playing “football” then I will really look at the league completely different, as I always have. College football is where it’s at.

By Bullsh!t

October 27, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

Who in the world calls a fade on 2nd and goal from the 2.

By BubbadaBaller

October 27, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

If (1) bad call by the officials costs you a game its the team & coaches fault. There are a lot of bad calls made throughout every game league wide. You shouldn’t be in that position late in a game when bad luck strikes. The fact that the Falcon’s could not contest the call is not AJ’s fault, although he should have been 20 yds from where that ball hit watching. The coaches should have told him to concede extra yards on the punt and let it roll. It beats turning the ball over…

By Hollywould

October 27, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Bad call but what are you gonna do. Also, the hit by Milloy was a bad call. The ball was still in the air, fell 5 feet away. Milloy hit him with a shoulder and did not hit him high. Just looked bad. This is football right? Anyway, let’s go to Oakland and take care of business. I have supported Brooking but he needs to go!!! He is killing us. They game planned to go at Brooking and he cannot get it done.

By Chubbyboy

October 27, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

The officials should have ruled it no fumble…It would have allowed Andy Reid to challenge the play if the Eagles felt it was touched…It would have given the officials a chance to get it right by looking @ relay…As an official you must know if a team trying to win the game has any timeouts left and can not challenge a play…The officials blew it by not taking their time and knowing the above therefore calling it downed and Falcons ball…Common Sense was not used by the officiating crew based on the above and they would have gotten it right be calling it down even if it was challenged by Philly!!!! What ashame..If we somehow not make the playoffs by one game…this one call could be the difference in getting another win on the road…Let’s go to Oakland and not dwell on it and win…We come home for three straight tough home games..Go Falcons!!!

By Dwight

October 27, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

Yes, it probably cost the Falcons a chance to win the game, but that is like 20/20 hindsight. I do believe the call was missed, but the officials are only human. Try again next week.

By sirreal

October 27, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

WHY THE %^&%* IS ADAM JENNINGS STILL ON THE TEAM?!!!! MUFFED OR NOT, THIS ISNT THE FIRST, SECOND , OR EVEN THIRD TIME THAT JENNINGS HAS $^%*@ US OUT OF A GAME. I DONT UNDERSTAND WHY THIS COACHING STAFF KEEPS THIS GUY AROUND!! I KNOW THERE’S SOMEONE ELSE WHO CAN PUNT RETURN FOR US BETTER THAN JENNINGS. HIS AVERAGE HAS BEEN AMONG THE ABSOLUTE WORST IN THE LEAGUE FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS…..THATS NOT IMPROVEMENT COACHES. GET A CLUE BEFORE HE BLOWS OUR CHANCES AT THE PLAYOFFS!!!

By the Donger

October 27, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

Why didn’t Jennings Fair catch the ball? Don’t run up to it and then back off at the last second. He’s absolutely worthless, and he has a cheesy tattoo. Cut this piece of crap!!

By Live Life

October 27, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

The moron!! shouldn’t have step up to the ball if he wasn’t going to make the catch. I agree cut him or bench him.

By thomas

October 27, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

It didn’t cost them the game but it didn’t help. Jennings should have been cut last year he was bad last year back there and this year Why did they trade rossum again?

By Joe cofer

October 27, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

Yeah I think the refs.need to be fired for that call makes you think they was paid off!!!!Thats alright we will still be there and I hope to god we do not have those refs again!!!!

By regular guy

October 27, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

I agree with refstinks. The NFL should do as college does. If it did, the right call would have been made and the Falcons might have won.

By chase

October 27, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

terrible call, but Jennings should have backed away from the ball. college football has it right. make it possible to review every play so that the officials have the option of reversing the obviously bad calls.

By Brad

October 27, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Funny….. Professional players being officiated by amateur referees. Where is the accountability?

By field the dam punt

October 27, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

the philly punter had kicked short all day, Jennings had not fielded a punt on the fly all day, why the hell was he expecting a 50 yard punt. He has been the poorest part of our team this season . a competent return man never lets the ball hit the ground. it’s great to get long returns but ball security and field position is paramount. sure, the refs missed the call, but until replay I think everyone thought jennings touched the ball. You can’t blame the coach for using all the timeouts, those 30 seconds could mean the 3 or 4 plays you need to score. Send a message to the whole team and organization. Cut Jennings and sign a dependable return man.

By J BOOGER

October 27, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

JEROME BOOGER (BOGER) WHATEVA THE HECK HIS NAME IS SHOULD BE FIRED. BOOGER PICKED HIS NOSE CLEANED AFTER HIS STOOP REF SCREWED UP THE GAME. BOOGER NEEDS TO GO. LISTEN TO BOOGER’S MOREHOUSE BUDDIES AND HIS CONYERS NEIGHBORS RANT ABOUT HIM. BOOGER IS AN IDIOT AMATEUR.

By Paul W

October 27, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

It was a bad call but WHY WAS THE IDIOT SO CLOSE TO THE BALL. The refs made a legitimate mistake, but Jennings made a BONEHEADED mistake.

By Dipper

October 27, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

It was a bad call but it didn’t cost us the game. The INT, Poor Run Calls, poor Timeout selection, late hits, injuries and more cost us the game…

This was lost by the entire team…

By atbob

October 27, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

ref is human and made mistakes. just like qb throw int and wr drop balls and rb fumbles. this is part of the game. dont expect ref to be perfect. get over it and move on.

By Get It Right

October 27, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Think about it. Really. Would the NFL allow an Atlanta team to go 5-2 and push the Eagles down to 3-4? The NFC East is the chosen division. NYG, Washington, Dallas, Philadelphia. Nope. Too much at stake to let one of the doormat teams get up too high.

By Steve

October 27, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

It was a blown call that cost us a chance to win the game and handed it to Philly on a silver platter. How come the blowhards at ESPN aren’t making a big deal out of this like they did the call with the Broncos and Chargers? This was just as bad. We get no respect. GO FALCONS. Great year so far.

By leftytel1

October 27, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Let’s focus on some positives. They got outplayed by a more veteran team with a prime time QB and yet still had a chance late until officials snafu. JA got another sack and appears to be coming around. Ryan made some mistakes but don’t you get the feeling if the team gets the ball he leads them down the field? That is all you can ask of your QB to alwqys give you a shot a winning the game. Besides, he is just a rookie. Imagine how he will play with a bit more experience!

The bad, obviously in hindsight coach Smith saves 1 TO since you have 2 minute warning. Officials blew the call. NFL Replay is a joke. When in doubt officials should be able and required to request a reply review like in college. I’m getting concerned about injuries to Baker.

All in all, you get the feeling this team will compete and be in most ballgames and with a few more pieces I can see them becoming a force to be reckoned with for a number of years.

By Mike

October 27, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

The NFL is starting to remind me of “Professional Rasslin”. The refs are not looking or blow the call that everyone else sees. The outcome is then determined by the mysteriously blown call and the team with the best record—or TV viewing area wins. This circumstance is becoming the norm.

By Deb

October 27, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Well, the falcons played a great game and I have to admit, when Matt Ryan got sacked and was slow getting up, my heart dropped to the end of my feet! We should have won the game, but Finnerman dropped the ball in the end zone, stupid call, as far as I am concerned, when we are on the one yard line and had several downs to go and end up with an intercepted pass, and then the stupid refs make such a horrendous, idiotic call. Like some of the comments above, whether we are out of time outs or not, the play should have been reviewed. You know, I use to like Terry Bradshaw, but the man can’t say a nice thing about the Falcons. All in all, I bet our defense surprised the heck out of Philadelphia. Even though we lost, we played a heck of a game and the guys should be proud of themselves. Gotta give Smitty some credit though — he sure was ticked off about the refs call and I was glad to see some emotion out there! “nough said — still have the rest of the season to go. We have nothing to hang our heads about, though.

By Rick

October 27, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

Adam jennings ………… Ithought that we spent the bye week grading past perfomances so we could work on them. When I read that I fully exected to NOT see Adam (6yds a ret.) Jennings. Of all the things that the coaches have done right, Jennings as a returner IS WRONG. Yes the call was wrong just more north-east bias. I haven’t even heard anyone outside of Atlanta mention the botched call, but we threw an interception on the one yard line and let Westbrook look like Knowshawn Moreno. Pretty hard to win on the road like that.

By too tough44

October 27, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

I have said 2x games this yr and now for the 3rd. when we are inside the 10 yrd line, lets pound the ball in! We have 3 huge stong backs and one scat back. Also, I tell ya, ole Snellings seems like he has decided he wants to play some football, use him more, Again, pound the ball in come offensive coordinator! Get TOUGH! Hammer it in, then pass if that fails…..ughhhhhhhhhhhh! Arthur, talk to the man!

By STRETCH

October 27, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Worst officials in any sport! How are you going to let a bunch of 60+ year olds run around all day and try to keep up with these guys? Couple of things that p*ssed me off:

With all the modern technology in the game today, a call like that set the NFL back 20 years. Now, I like the rest of the fans are waiting to see what comes of the horrible officiating.

By Donald Parker

October 27, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

with all the money the NFLK has, they should certainly get their heads together and see that the review system they have is terrible. Take a look at college system and get a real one like theirs.Yesterdays decision not to allow a review was a discrace. Don Parker

By repercussions

October 27, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Bad calls will happen, that’s true. But these refs should use their brain, when there is a questionable call, think about it before you make your decision. Atlanta couldn’t challenge but Philly could. Think before you speak! I’ve heard the “well you guys got lucky on the roughing the passer call…” Philly got lucky on a unnecessary roughing call so quit trying to make excuses. Of course there were missed opportunities by Atlanta, but I would have still liked to see a final drive. The Falcons have exceeded expectations and Philly should feel lucky today with the Rollins tag call and the bonehead refs. I hope the NFL deals with these refs they same way they did with Hochuli and the Broncos earlier.

By bigd

October 27, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe that six referees all missed such an obvious call. Not one of them could see the ball missed him by three feet. Just like baseball I guess they were afraid to over rule their alpha dog. These games mean to much to to many people to let chowder heads decide the outcome.

By dannotdan

October 27, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Missed calls are part of the game and the NFL rules made it impossible to correct what was an easily correctable call given super slow motion replays that were available to replay officials in the booth. The unfortunate thing is that only one of several official on the field decided to guess about seeing the ball strike Jennings…………….it had to be a guess because the ball and Jennings never touched.

This was not a play like a sideline reception that requires an official to determine if the receiver was in or out and make the call even if they are not 100% certain. This was a dead ball, no judgment required, no reason to make a call unless you are 100% certain that Jennings made contact with the ball and the guy guessed. Why the NFL would spend millions of dollars a year on replay equipment and officials and not use them 56 out of 60 minutes during a game is crazy.

As far as Jennings and Smith are concerned it is impossible to find any blame in their actions. There is no place for timid punt return men in the NFL, Jenkins was attempting to make a play on a bad floating kick and when he determined he could not catch and advance the ball he did exactly what he was trained to do………………get out of the way of the oncoming ball. The fact that the official decided to call something he obviously did not see is not Jennings fault. And if NFL coaches should reserve time outs to correct bad officiating rather than win games the league has big credibility problems.

By John C

October 27, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

I’m just a plain ol’ football fan. My team had a bye on Sunday. I watched the game yesterday at home as I live near the Philadelphia area & am subject to the Philly stations & their views (groan). Some of my friends & family are Eagle fans but, I dont hold that against them. The refs blew the call. Period. I don’t blame coach Smith. Time outs left or not, that was a terrible & costly call. We don’t know what would have happened if the Falcons had kept the ball but, we know they never got a chance to find out! The refs took that chance away. There was plenty of time for the Falcons to score a TD to tie & go ahead with the point after. What a sh*y way to lose. Jennings? Man, he should find a costume for Halloween & go incognito the rest of the week. Where the hell did he learn to PR?! It’s a damn shame when a game gets decided by poor officiating. Now I have to listen to obnoxious Eagle fans on TV say they won. Booooo!

By Parker Godwin

October 27, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

This was a badly called game. First, up front, the Falcons played a lackluster game and probably deserved to lose (but so did the Eagles). That said, the refs did not do a good job all game long.

What about that third and long play where Lawyer Milloy hammered that WR and got an unsportsmanlike conduct call that kept the Eagles’ scoring drive alive? The ball had been tipped. DB are taught that when a ball is tipped and in the air, level the WR so he can’t catch it. It was a really hard hit, but it wasn’t illegal.

And then that awful muffed punt call. Just terrible. The Eagles got 14 points on bad ref calls. The NFL needs to review this officiating crew and suspend them for a few games.

By DS

October 27, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Just cut Jennings. He has been horrible as a return man this season. How do you get that close to the ball and not catch it. Or at least get away from it. While I admit it was a bad call, if I were a ref on the field, I probably would have seen it the same way. Can the NFL please use the college instant replay system??

By peter

October 27, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

it was a really bad call, jennings didn’t touch the ball, even if it wasn’t under 2 minutes, and even if we had no timeouts, do like they do in hockey when ever a play is questionable they go to the review booth, thats what the refs should have done, and not even all they had to do was look up at the jumbo tron, but no they gotta find a way to screw the falcons those stupid zebra’s bottom line, we should be 5-2 not 4-3 and the eagles are scrap but dont worry will get our revenge , next week the raiders will feel our wrath

By dustin

October 27, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

I agree. Jennings is god awful and the refs are dumber than a rock. Jennings never tries to escape to the outside and use speed to lose the defenders by juking, or anything of that sort. He simply runs straight to the tacklers, rarely follows good blocks, and returns punts when he doesn’t need to. He’ll decide to catch it with defenders wayyyyyyyyyyy too close. And he shouldn’t have even attempted to return that punt. What an idiot. I SAY CUT HIS A* NOW OR THE FALCONS WILL LOSE ALOT OF FANS

By dustin

October 27, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

I agree. Jennings is god awful and the refs are dumber than a rock. Jennings never tries to escape to the outside and use speed to lose the defenders by juking, or anything of that sort. He simply runs straight to the tacklers, rarely follows good blocks, and returns punts when he doesn’t need to. He’ll decide to catch it with defenders wayyyyyyyyyyy too close. And he shouldn’t have even attempted to return that punt. What an idiot. I SAY CUT HIS A* NOW OR THE FALCONS WILL LOSE ALOT OF FANS

By Eddie

October 27, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

If Jennings isn’t going to catch the ball, he should get the hell away from it.

By kimmer

October 27, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Sure there were some missed opportunities/lack of execution by the Falcons. That happens. Missed opportunities should in no way deflect the criticisim that should be levied for a call that should NEVER be made unless one is absolutely sure it has been touched. In my mind calling a ‘no touch’ when a ball nicks a player is a much more forgiveable mistake. Plus, I don’t understand why the guy didn’t ask for help to make sure they got it right!

Also, I thought the call against Malloy was also somewhat questionable. The ball was in the air when he timed his hit and plus it was tipped into the air. What if it had been tipped to the receiver?

By Terry

October 27, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

This is a perfect example of why I don’t agree with replay period. Either we put bad officiating as part of the game or make it possible for all plays to be scutinized by the booth, even if the ball has been hiked or not before reviews can be done. This is the 3rd time this year that I have seen where a bad call by a referee has been the conclusion of a comeback by a team!

By jamaal

October 27, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

Forget the Replay. IT’s Jennings Fault!!!!!

Adam Jennngs Sucks!!!! He has been horrible every year. Put Jerious back there or H.Douglas!

Everyday, PR return kicks in practice why do we have the only one on earth who either fumbles, fair catches at wrong times, or doesn’t fair catch it and it lands on the 1 yd line???

CATCH THE DANG BALL! That is your only job!

Why would you let that bounce and have an attempt of bouncing back further and run more clock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By jamaal

October 27, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

CATCH THE DANG BALL!

That is your only job! If we are going to just let it bounce what do we need you for???? We could get a fat, blind, autistic kid to just let it bounce!!!!

Hell, we could put Grady Jackson or Arthur Blank could suit up, if we’re going to let it bounce.

Release HIM!!!!!

By kal

October 27, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Guys Screw ups happen but NFL need to get their S##t together week after week bad calls after bad calls, this time Falcons before that some other team and in future it may be another team and the Falcons might be the benefactors…

Coach made a bad call, should have run the 1 yard… Give the guy a break we are doing a great job beyond expectations for this year…

Jennings is playing with no confidence we do not know the reason, maybe too much pressure, maybe he needs another team to bring back his confidence but seriously he need to GO, for both the sake of the team and himself…By the way he did everything by the book…2:32 to go, getting the ball at the 40 yard line, wanted to make a big plan, last min. got out of the way but guess not clean enough for the blind official, who later does not give the touchdown to the Eagles but gives them the ball????????????

Some senior players need to get their act together and if they are worried of getting injured at this point and stage of their career they need to retire…

Still love the Falcons, remember we are all humans some will make dumb mistake, and learn from them, and some will not… Coaches, Players, Ref. Staff all need to look back and learn most of all the NFL Refs and umpires because they are the worst…

By Donald D.

October 27, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

I do think that the call was a very bad one. However Jennings is always making bad decisions back there. He has the speed but don’t us it when we need it the most. He cost us that game because he didn’t do his job.

By Tim 88

October 27, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Eagles fan, but Bad call. You cant assume a touchdown but they deserved the chance for it. Isnt competing what the game is all about? The Falcons were denied their shot and it’s a shame.

By Tim 88

October 27, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget, the Falcons also got a break on the thier touchdown drive when Trent Coles was called for roughing the passer. Almost as bad a call as the muff.

By dwh315

October 27, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

I am an Eagles fan who lives in Atlanta. The call was terrible. Who knows what might have happened. But what impressed me most is what I read from the Falcons players and coach after the game. They handled in a classy way and didn’t blame the loss on any one play.

By DMac

October 27, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

22 seconds is 2 or more plays. Then you have a timeout at the 2 minute warning. I don’t blame the coach at all. How long to you hang on to the flag? Do you throw away 2 plays to protect yourself from the terrible officiating. its really sad but thats what its coming to….I vote replays on all turnover calls period. This is rediculous to say its OK because we couldn’t challange it…

By Larryp

October 27, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

The NFL review system is broken and the blown punt play highlights this fact. Referees should have the ability to review questionable and meaningful plays at their discretion if a game hangs in the balance without a required challenge from the sideline. A coach should be able request a review of a play as well, regarless. If the coach is wrong, give, they pay with a fifteen yard penalty for example. This is about right and wrong.

By Larryp

October 27, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

The NFL review system is broken and the blown punt play highlights this fact. Referees should have the ability to review questionable and meaningful plays at their discretion if a game hangs in the balance without a required challenge from the sideline. A coach should be able request a review of a play as well, regarless. If the coach is wrong, give, they pay with a fifteen yard penalty for example. This is about right and wrong.

By Larryp

October 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

The NFL review system is broken and the blown punt play highlights this fact. Referees should have the ability to review questionable and meaningful plays at their discretion if a game hangs in the balance without a required challenge from the sideline. A coach should be able request a review of a play as well, regarless. If the coach is wrong, give, they pay with a fifteen yard penalty for example. This is about right and wrong.

By keith

October 27, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

People are forgetting that had brian finneran caught the td pass we wouldn’t have had to burn a timeout in the first place for the crucial fourth down play. Therefore, we woulod have had all three timeouts left and one left for a challenge.

By shawn

October 27, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

The officials made a bad call! That’s it! It’s not Jennings fault or anyone else on that team. They play as a team! I respect the likes of Brooking and McClure who said there were so many mistakes made that contributed to the loss not just one play. The Falcons are in a much better position than anyone expected them to be this year. GO FALCONS!!

By shawn

October 27, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

The officials made a bad call! That’s it! It’s not Jennings fault or anyone else on that team. They play as a team! I respect the likes of Brooking and McClure who said there were so many mistakes made that contributed to the loss not just one play. The Falcons are in a much better position than anyone expected them to be this year. GO FALCONS!!

By harleyman

October 27, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Bottom line is Adam Jennings is a liability on this team. He had more than enough room to catch the punt running if he hadn’t slowed down and the bad call would be a moot point. Jennings continually gets himself in these predicaments whether misjudging a punt or fair catching one inside our own 10 yard line. Tired of holding my breathe for this clown every time he is on the field receiving a punt.

By wbhart

October 27, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

I have not heard one comment on the sports station about this - they only comment about the call on the eagles of roughing the q/b . It is like oh well - it’s only the falcons - talk about jerks -I hope tennessee beats the colts tonight - they don’t get the respect they deserve either

By G Roberts

October 27, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

In 2008 this is the second documented bad call at the end of a game by an NFL official. Why doesn’t the NFL have the ability to review all plays like they do in NCAA games?

By Dave from Augusta,Ga

October 28, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this

I don”t know what”s wrong with the NFL Officials. The instant replay is there to get the call right. But the field officials makes a call, they don”t won”t to go the instant replay to get it right.The Commissioner & the Head of the League Officials needs to address this problem. If they don”t want to use the Instant Replay, they should find something else to do on Sunday”s

By Bill

October 28, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

What cost the Falcons the game was terrible play calling when we had the ball on the two with first and goal, then the interception. RUN THE BALL.

By MIKE

October 28, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

AGAIN THE NFL “SRIPT WRITERS” GOT THEIR WAY. WHEN THE FALCONS HAD UNLOCKED THE EAGLES DEFENSIVE SECRET AND HAD THE MOMENTUM AFTER THE PREVIOUS DRIVE AND THE GREAT “D” STOP THE REFS STEPPED IN AND MADE SURE THE “UNPOPULAR COMEBACK” WOULDN’T COME TO BE. LEWERE WELL AWARE THAT THE PUNT RECIEVER DID NOT TOUCH THE BALL BUT KNEW IT WAS NOT REVIEWABLE OR CHALLENGABLE…VERY CLEVER? OR BLIND?

By MIKE

October 28, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

AGAIN THE NFL “SRIPT WRITERS” GOT THEIR WAY. WHEN THE FALCONS HAD UNLOCKED THE EAGLES DEFENSIVE SECRET AND HAD THE MOMENTUM AFTER THE PREVIOUS DRIVE AND THE GREAT “D” STOP THE REFS STEPPED IN AND MADE SURE THE “UNPOPULAR COMEBACK” WOULDN’T COME TO BE. THEY WERE WELL AWARE THAT THE PUNT RECIEVER DID NOT TOUCH THE BALL BUT KNEW IT WAS NOT REVIEWABLE OR CHALLENGABLE…VERY CLEVER? OR BLIND?