ajcsportstalk

By Sean

December 30, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matty Ice!!!! Mick who???? LOL!!!

By atlpaddy

December 30, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Well, alright! Congratulations Matt, you deserved it and congrats to the entire Falcons organization on a great year (so far)! Let’s keep it going this Saturday.

Go Falcons!

By Leroy Ledbetter

December 30, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

We shoulda drafted defense!

By mark

December 30, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Mikeal Vick who? SO glad that we finally have a quarterback that can throw the ball. We have a team here in Georgia finally.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

December 30, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS ICEMAN!!! You definitely deserve it!!

GO FALCONS!!

By JPDawg

December 30, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Great Job, Matty Ice! You brought pride back to the Falcons and the fans. Congrats on a well deserved honor!

By william johnson

December 30, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

HOORAY MATT, CONGLATULATIONS

By Kelli

December 30, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!! We look forward to many more successful seasons

By Jason

December 30, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Matt — Thank you for all that you have done for the Falcon organization and fans of the Atlanta Falcons. It has been an incredible season and wishing you and your teammates the best of luck this weekend in Arizona and through the rest of the playoffs…..THANKS!!!

By Nate

December 30, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt. Great job! Look forward to many more year of awesomeness.

By Lisa FalconGirl

December 30, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

WOW! What an amazing year! Congratulations Matt on winning Rookie of the year! I’m so proud of you and of our entire team! As a season ticket holder I know that I can speak for all of us and say Thank you, Thank you, Thank You!!!! Go Falcons!

By Anthony

December 30, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!! On being NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the year. Be steadfast in the faith, be brave, and be strong!!!

By Micheal Sanders

December 30, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Matty Ice, I am so freakin proud of you and am looking forward to watching you play for many years. I was born the year that Atlanta got the Falcons and have been a huge fan from day one. I have never in all of my years witnessed a player on the Falcons team grow up so fast and add this much excitement to the Falcons. Congrats my friend!! Micheal

By D Jones

December 30, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan, where do I start….. I just want to say thanks for what you have brought to our football team and our city! As a Falcon season ticket holder I have enjoyed the development of something special this year… I am one of the few people that believed in you and what you could do. I just want to say THANKS for everything and CONGRATS on “ROY” you have earned it!!!! Keep plugging away and you will be one of the legends of this game when it is all said and done. GO FALCONS!! “WHY NOT US”

By Just Nasty & Mean

December 30, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Matt!! You’ve made me a Falcons fan again. The perennial case study of mediocrity appears over.

Thank you and our new coach for giving us faithful a reason to come back!

By Linda Wiley

December 30, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt. I could tell from the start of the season that you would be a leader for the falcons. You seem to be an person with qualities that are rare in the sports world today.

A Falcon fan from years back Linda Wiley

By Baldsax

December 30, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

RIGHT ON MATT!

By Billy

December 30, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Hey Matt,

Huge BC fan from Boston. Outstanding news and very well deserved.

Couldn’t have happened to a better person. You make us proud.

By Pat

December 30, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

WE ARE SOOOO PROUD OF YOU MATT AND SO VERY VERY HAPPY FOR YOU !!!! WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH. PAT AND BOB … YOUR BIGGEST FLORIDA FANS.

By charlie

December 30, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Michael, who?

By Fred

December 30, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt! Keep your head and heart on straight and you’ll be great for years to come!

By southern hope

December 30, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

- Boston Jesuits Rock!

By Bob

December 30, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!! Offensive Rookie of the Year is a great accomplishment and we know you will keep it going. From your biggest fans in Fernandina Beach, FL

By Danny G

December 30, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Good job young man! Now, stay focussed on the task at hand. You have made this city very proud of our team again.

By Dan

December 30, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Congrats MAtt! You dont know what you, Turner, Smith and Dmitrioff meant to us coming here in the off season. Thank you for giving us and your teammates something to cheer about!

By C

December 30, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!! Many more great years to come!

Go Falcons!!!!!

By Dan

December 30, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt! Very well deserved honor

By Ajones

December 30, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

THIS IS GREAT NEWS! YAY! SUPER EXCITED!

By litebear43

December 30, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

First,congrats to you Matt!! and what a banging season for ther falcons, you all have “come a long way baby.” keep up the plays and stay engourage cause some of the teams that the falcons will be facing are good teams and they all want a piece of the birds. GOOD WORK!!!

By mixxo

December 30, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!!

Accept it with grace & poise like I know you will Buddy. Now let’s go kick some Cardinal a**!

By Sandy

December 30, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Michael who????? We are so much better off. Thanks Matt for a great year. To those of you who never gave up - this is for you!!!!

By Amanda

December 30, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS MATT!!!

What a great preseason, and here’s to the post season!

GO FALCONS!!!

By TORPEDO

December 30, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Great job and great news congrats.

By bill

December 30, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

go g—- it took a qn to bring back respect to atl sports

By CommunistAJC

December 30, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

MIKE VICK NO MORE! WAY TO GO MATT!

By John

December 30, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

You did a great job this season. Keep up the hard work.

By Dolfan2438

December 30, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Congratualtions Matt! No one is more deserving ~ I hope that you have found your home here as an Atlanta Falcon and wish you continued success in the furture !

By Dolfan2438

December 30, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt! No one is more deserving ~ I hope that you have found your home here as an Atlanta Falcon and wish you continued success in the future!

By Dawg4Life

December 30, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt! No one is more deserving. The voting wasn’t even close!!!! 44 out of 50 votes!!! Lets hope now that Curtis Lofton gets the defensive honor. Jarod Mayo is really his only competition. Then, we can bring home the trifecta with Turner getting the MVP!!!!

By Richard

December 30, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Matt Congratulations on a wonderful season…I personally don’t watch a lot of football, however I so proud of your talent and how well your making Atlanta look (thank you for that)…I wish you all the best, your very talented and deserve this award….

By Lu

December 30, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Matt, you knew what you were coming to in the “A” and you held your own. People are going to say you couldnt have done it without Turner and the rest of the cast, and they are probably right, but through it all, you held your head in there and played like a champ. Congrats on this honor. Now go win us a friggin championship ! !

By MC

December 30, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Great Job Matt, u and the team deserve this award!!!!!! YOU GO BOY, with your bad self!!!!!!

By Stuart

December 30, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Well Done Matt…as a VT grad who saw you last year play twice it’s nice to see you do very well!!

By Darrin "The Vent King"

December 30, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Hey Falcon Fans do yourself a favor and check out this video “Falcons 2008 Turnaround”

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lx-LcVr4jwI&feature=channel_page)

GO FALCONS!!!

By carlaven

December 30, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Matt ; CONGRATULATIONS SEEMS A MERE WORD BUT IT IS GIVEN WITH HEARTFELT THANKS AND SINCERITY CARL M AVEN

By Lu

December 30, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

BTW WAY…I GOT A 3-PIECE FROM POPEYES FOR YA IF YOU WIN SUNDAY ! ! !

By Shon

December 30, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS!! MATT!!! I must admit, I was protesting this season with the Falcons, but you pulled me back in. You DESERVE IT!!!! Hard work pays off!!!

By Bill Sanford

December 30, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt for everything this year. You renewed my love for the Falcons. Your humble ways will serve you well.

By Proud Falcon Fan

December 30, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt on this well-deserved honor. It’s been a MATTnificent year for the team, Season Ticket Holders, fans, and the city. Show the league all that you are made of as we go through the PLAYOFFS.

By jackie

December 30, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

wonderful year! you deserve the honor! have a wonderful day saturday! you made us proud!

By Radar

December 30, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Matt,

Congrats on your award. Many thanks for the joys you brought to 31 year season ticket holder watching you play this year. The future looks bright for you and the Falcons. Again, thanks for the memories.

By Lamar

December 30, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Ryan, GO FALCONS

By Anthony

December 30, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Congrats! Matty Ice. I believed in you from day one.

By Daddys357

December 30, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

I just want to say thank you all for a great season! From the front office to the people on this blog. I live about 2 miles from the Falcons training camp in Flowery Branch and I went to an open practice to the public and got Matt Ryan’s autograph on a football. It was the first autograph on the ball and i thought to myself, should his name be the only one on the ball? But right then and there I decided that we are a team and i got 45 auto’s on two footballs in three hours. These footballs are pricless to me and so are the memories from this season! Great TEAM effort and Great Fan support and Hopefully my footballs will be signed by the Super Bowl Champs and Furture Hall of Famers!

By nomatt

December 30, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Hope they lose in the playoffs. That will bring you off your high horses

By In Awe

December 30, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Congratulations, Matty Ice! You have really brought the excitement back to the Atlanta Football scene! you and Smitty and the whole team are playing like you are having fun! That’s good, coz in the end, it’s called a GAME! thanks for making the game fun for the fans, too! I know your parents are proud!

By DW

December 30, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

By SBOLEN

December 30, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt! It was so much fun to cheer on the Falcons in the Georgia Dome this year. You clearly made everyone around you better. Good luck and lets get a win on Saturday in Arizona.

By Mark

December 30, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Hey Matt-You have done absolutely as much as anyone could have asked of you and plenty more. Welcome to Atlanta! We are looking forward to many more years of you leading the way. Continue being the class act that you are and we will always be behind you. Go get em in the playoffs.

By Larry Coleman

December 30, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

FANTASTIC JOB MATT!!!!!!!THANKS….

By Matt

December 30, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Nice work Matty Ice! I echo Bill — Your humble ways will serve you well.

Thanks for the hard work. I know you’ll stumble, but as long as you keep getting up — you’ll continue to prove to be a winner!

Way to go TD and Smitty — you picked a good one!

Now go do what Falcons do in the wild and beat down on the Cardinals.

By SBOLEN

December 30, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt! You clearly made everyone around you better. Lets get a win Saturday afternoon in Arizona.

By LCB

December 30, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

YEAH MATT!!!!!

By Falconsftw

December 30, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt. Thanks for an amazing season… It’s been surreal, you’ve restored the love this city has for our pro football team. Keep it rolling Iceman. There is work left to do.

By Alex

December 30, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Congradulations Matt!Great year and keep it going,stay strong and lead the birds to victory against the Cardinals

By Toni

December 30, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Matt, You are awesome and so deserving of this recognition! Thanks to you and the team, for restoring the Falcons good name. COUPLE THINGS: no more flips ! & where was the T.I. dance with the rushing TD ???

By KHB

December 30, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

There was never a doubt in my mind. Congratulations…keep it going! GO FALCONS.

By Ron Mexico

December 30, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt for taking the spotlight. Now I can go away in peace.

By Johnny Neptune

December 30, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Welcome to the A-town baby!

Thank you for a wonderful year. No matter what happens during the playoffs, you’ve already won.

By falconfever

December 30, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Congratulations, Matt. Not only for the incredible, well deserved honor; but also for bringing class back to the quarterback position in Atlanta!!!!

By pamela

December 30, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt! You totally deserve this honor, and I think I can speak for most fans and residents of Atlanta when I say we are absolutely thrilled to have you here! And not just because you’re a great quarterback, but because you seem to be a great MAN…full of intelligence, maturity, poise, and class. It’s very obvious you were raised by parents who instilled a sense of grounded values in their son that goes far beyond the game of football.

And even though I’m sure it’ll be full of both ups and downs, I hope you spend your ENTIRE career here with our beloved Falcons, as we will always need someone with your talents and most importantly - your fine character - representing the great city of Atlanta, instead of the “celebrities” normally associated with this town and state (eg., M. Vick, B. Campbell, C. McKinney, J. Carter, B. Nichols, D. King, Ludacris, T. Turner, etc.).

Good luck the rest of the season, and regardless of what happens in the playoffs, you have already earned a special place in our hearts.

Your parents, family, friends, coaches and BOSTON COLLEGE must be so proud of you!

From an LSU fan - you know, the 2007 BCS Champs, in case you’ve forgotten! (Sorry, had to get that in there!! :) )

By Veda/McKinney TX.

December 30, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

The first time I saw you play I was amazed. I called my brother and he could not say enough good things about you. Well, you proved him right. It’s nice to see a young man like you. I hope you continue on the right path, not only in football but in your life as well. Although I live in Texas now, I am a Falcon fan once again. Not because the team is winning but because it is beginning to show integrity.

By falkonfan

December 30, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt! Congratulations on the first of many awards!

By Louie

December 30, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt. A well deserved honor. can’t wait to see you back on your “A” game on Saturday.

By Randy J

December 30, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

WOW, what a difference a year makes. I think that we were very lucky to land a guy that has the class that you do. I saw you last year beat up my jackets and thought, man , wish the falcons could get this guy..I know that your parents are so proud for you and so are we.. Thanks MATT, keep up the great work…

By Joyce Patton

December 30, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Matt,

Congratulations, you have made us proud to be a Falcons Fan! You are most deserving of this honor and we applaud you and your accomplishments. We wish you the all the best for the remainder of the season and future seasons. Again, thank you for your dedication to our TEAM.

Joyce

By Vikki T

December 30, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

I watched the NFL draft and literally cried my eyes out when you were drafted by the Falcons. I was so overwhelmed with joy. The Falcons needed a nice, good looking, All-American boy to help clean up their image and you were just what the doctor ordered! Congratulations. I’m so happy for you.

By David

December 30, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Matt, Way to be! You are a talented guy was has put in the time the hone your skills. I look forward to many years of watching you develop as a player. Thanks for giving Atlanta a team we can be proud of. Good luck in the playoffs. David

By sherry dawkins

December 30, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Way to go. So, glad this years has been without drama. Very proud that you received this honor. Make us proud Saturday.

By courtney

December 30, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Matt,

I am so happy for you. I can not believe what a year the Falcons are having but I will ride this ship until the end of the season. Hopefully, we will be in the Super Bowl. Again, WHY NOT US? I hope that you continue to shine. I also hope that you read all of this love and support that we have for you.

By Eddie

December 30, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Great job Matt! A well deserved honor. Thanks too for the way you represented this franchise. Let’s go get the Cards!

By Shannon

December 30, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt!! Thanks for all your hard work and dedication!! YAY!! Go Falcons!!!

By bro's4ryan

December 30, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Congrats …. I see MVP and Pro Bowl in your future.

By bulldawg6481

December 30, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt, although originally I am a Cowboys fan, I also pull for the hometown team too. I am pulling for the FALCONS all the way in the playoffs! I know that we would not be here without you. You are awesome!

By Jonny Levin

December 30, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

when the falcons drafted you i was a little sad becuse i knew that officialy meant that mr. blank had no intention of bringing vick back. but in your rookie year you have already tied his regular season wins. i am happy you were our choice. id rather a guy who wins ball games, like you, than a quarter back who just makes sport center top plays. you had an excellent season. when you through your pass of the year and it was a touchdown there were tears in my eye. after the bears game you made believe that nothing is impossible. rookie of the year is good, mvp is better, and super bowl mvp is best. i hope by the end of the season you have all three.

By Erk

December 30, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt. You deserve it.

It’s so nice having a QB and a team we can be proud of.

Good Luck Saturday!

By RickEeeee

December 30, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Way to go and good luck against the Cards!

By Anil

December 30, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Congratulations

By Mike

December 30, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt! Your leadership, effort and CLASS has made this the most fun Falcon season for me ever and I’ve been a fan since 1966. Most of our other playoff teams got there by “smoke and mirrors.” This is a real team! Congratulations and good luck Saturday against the Cards!

By micheal vick

December 30, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Good Job Bud, I’m coming back for my Job real soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By BraveFalcon

December 30, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

MATTY ICE THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION AND TURNING THIS FRANCHISE AROUND!!! YOU DA ICEMAN!!! CONGRATS ON THE AWARD!

By Millwood

December 30, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Matt rescued my kitty from a tree over the weekend.

By falmouth

December 30, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Congratulations The BC community in VA. follows every game with great interest and pride in your accomplishments and your class act.

By EDDIE

December 30, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt on being rookie of the year, next year you will be MVP of the super bowl. You are a class act. GO FALCONS

By BuzzFactor

December 30, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Impressive rookie year Matt, even if you were a veteran it would still be a good year! Pat those linemen on the back for us, too. Keep that chemistry going and go whoop up on those little redbirds in the desert.

By BrutasStephenson

December 30, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Matty Ice on a spectacular season. The Falcons are a legitimate contender to win the superbowl this year. The Falcons play the game the right way and this has been my most fun as a fan than all the years I have watched the Falcons. Go Falcons! All the Way to The Top!

By David

December 30, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt! Its been great reading about the Falcons this year and you’re a major reason for their success.Congrats also to all the players who did their part as well. I’ve lived overseas for 25 years and its been a long time since I was this excited about the Falcons.Keep up the good work.

By tjs

December 30, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Thanks for showing these fans, that you don’t have to be from thje south or the SEC to be able to play this game well. Congratulations you deserve it.

By Vickie

December 30, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

The kudos for Matt are well deserved. I have truely enjoyed watching the Falcons play football this season. Continued succes in the playoffs. GO Falcons!!

By Booky

December 30, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Matt, Please stay away from Dog fighting!!!

By Rocket20

December 30, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

ONE HEARTBEAT !!!!!!!!!!!!! GREAT LEADERSHIP AND THANKS FOR NOT DRESSING LIKE A THUG FOR INTERVIEWS.

By Stephen

December 30, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS AND IT IS WELL DESERVED!!!

You are off to a great start with your NFL career. The Atlanta Falcons fans want to thank you, all the other players, coaches, etc. for an exciting year of Atlanta Falcon football. GO FALCONS

By George Holman

December 30, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

You have turned this franchise around! As a fan since 1966 with Nobis and Johnson, and all through the years since, this has been the most rewarding season of all. You and your teammates have restored pride and professionalism in Atlanta, and I think your award is most deserving.

Now, go get the Cardinals!

By jayboij

December 30, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

you have made Atlanta proud of you

By Smoltz For President

December 30, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

“ICE” congrats on all that you have accomplished! We are proud to have you as our hometown qb! Go get ‘em this weekend!!! Go Falcons!!!

By Tami

December 30, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Congrats, Matt!! This honor couldn’t be bestowed on a better, finer individual. We’re very honored to have you here in Atlanta as our starting QB. You’ve made us Falcons’ fans mighty proud again, not only of this team, but of you. You are quite a breath of fresh air compared to so many other talented, young athletes. I wish you & the team much success in the postseason. Win or lose, you and the team have far exceeded our expectations this season. We’re looking forward to watching your talent blossom for years to come.

By Quick

December 30, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Wow! Vikki T, that was a pretty racist statement. Didn’t know the Falcons ‘image’ was tainted?! MR2 baby, ya showed out. Shout outs to C. Lofton, C. Jackson, K. Biermann and H. Douglas too for outstanding seasons. i appreciate all yall. Lets keep it rollin fellas.

By Bring it home!

December 30, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

We all knew you were the best and it’s nice to see it acknowledged. Congrats!!!

Thanks for making a 31 year old giddy enough to buy his first NFL jersey!

This is too much fun to stop now so let’s keep it rolling for 4 more games!

Go Falcons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By thanks matty ice

December 30, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU!!!! Lead us through the playoffs Ice!!!

By SAM MILLER

December 30, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Matty Ice will you marry me!!!

By PenelopeWilliams

December 30, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Matty for winning the rookie of the year. I know of one NFL hall of famer who feels that you played your position this season as well as any hall of famer had played the position of quarterback in the past. I wont mention who it is but it is the quarterback who has the highest qb rating in NFL history. Thats quite an endorsement and I agree with his assessment of Matt Ryan. Youve had one the best rookie seasons ever and I wouldnt be surprised to see you guide the Falcons into the superbowl and win that game too. Good luck and thanks for erasing the ghosts of Vick and Petrino forever. Thank you.

By Bring it home!

December 30, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Almost forgot, I met some Eagles fans from near Exton, PA watching from my hotel bar in Cancun last weekend. Your homies are very proud of you! Keep it up man, you are gonna represent Atlanta for years to come.

By Blake

December 30, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matty!! But keep on doing what you’re doing…don’t slow down now and get comfortable. Lots of RESPECT to you!! -Blake

By PBR=America in a can

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

Thanks for being part of the re-birth of Falcons Football…. BEAT THE CARDS!!!

By angry

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

This is real BULL S**!!!!!!! No respect for the hard work of Michael Vick.

JUST BULL!!!!!

By RileyWood

December 30, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt!!! Thanks for bringing some class back to the dirty birds!!!

By Don Gill

December 30, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Congratulations, Matt. What a difference good character makes. Now we can build a great team. No more thugs.

By MountainDawg

December 30, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Congratulations “MattyIce”! :-) You’ve done the Falcons, the fans & your family proud! Now, go take out the Cards & continue onwards to the SuperBowl!

By molly

December 30, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Congrats!

Here’s hoping you can keep up the good work, stay out of trouble and be a great role model for the millions of kids who idolize sports figures like yourself. Atlanta is desperate for some positive news and we hope that the energy and the teamwork we see from you and the other falcons (you didn’t get there by yourself) lasts continues for several years. We want to back a positive organization.

By Snewo Dawg

December 30, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Keep up the good work, Matt Ryan! I’m sorry that anyone in this city ever doubted your ability, and I am so glad that you proved them all wrong. Best of luck in the playoffs, and GO FALCONS!! Don’t forget to thank your offensive line and Michael Turner for helping you along and taking the load off of you so often.

By Marty

December 30, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

The Best two things that ever happened for this club was Matt Ryan and Steve Bartkowski. Congratulations Matt. Hope you will be with us for many years to come.

By The Truth Comes Out

December 30, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt! Please say this is going to last a long time. You dont smoke dope chase loose std infected women and kill innocent animals do you? LOL! GO MATTY ICE!

By kady

December 30, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Thanks for being the face of the Atlanta Falcons instead of the “thug” of the Atlanta Falcons. Please love our city as much as our city loves you….You are a class act-kiss your mama and thank her for raising you right!!!

By Geoff

December 30, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Watchin the Falcons re-birth this season was a great moral boost while I was stationed overseas.

And our dominance of the NFC North made it easy to stick it to my fellow soldiers from that region. Haha.

Congrats and great job, Ry! Keep it up, brother. PLAYOFFS BABY!

By fanbase

December 30, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

!!Way too go ICEMAN!! AND THE WHOLE FALCON TEAM.

By dennis

December 30, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!!! Thanks for a great year. And If EA Sports comes call… JUST SAY NO!!!

By JohnnyReb

December 30, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Hey “Angry”, are you talking about yer boy Vick’s hard work in rollin’ up doobage (pre-prison) or making license plates in the pen?! LOL!!!

By charlottefan

December 30, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Matt,

Congrats what a great year. Lets go kick some arizona butt.I would love to see us against Carolina one more time. Way to go.

By randy

December 30, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt, we are so glad to have you here. Keep up the good work and best wishes. Congratulations from section 238…we did our part bringing the noise!

By Calvin G. Sims, Sr.

December 30, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Of course I congratulate you, but more than that I want to thank you for what you have brought to my beloved Falcons. I am a true fan which means I love this team whether it is 16 - 0 or 0 - 16.

This has been my happiest season since the 80’s and we Native Atlantans and true fans owe a great deal of it to you. You are a fine young man and I see nothing but success for you. I hope this is your WORSE year. I can’t wait to watch you in the playoffs. I am sure you will do us proud…you already have.

GO FALCONS!!!

By brian

December 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt….i’ll have to admit i was a little hesitate at first when they selected you with the first pick but it looks like they did their homework with you. I truely believe now that the falcons’ orginization has found a guy they can build a dynasty with. Wish you all the best and let’s go beat those birds in the desert!!! GO FALCONS!!!!!!

By Matt Ryan

December 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Thanks to everyone for their kind words. But I have to admit, I’m even starting to get sick of how awesome I am. I wish the TV talking heads would quit slobbering all over themselves to praise me. Happy New Year everyone! P.S. Hey Millwood, only girlymen own cats.

By Ede

December 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Matt, you ROCK!! “Congratulations” isn’t a strong-enough word for what you, along with your Falcon teammates have accoomplished this year.

By TonyDawgFan1

December 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt, and also thank you for bringing the team back to where it’s suppose to be!! Go Falcons!!!

By RR7

December 30, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Angry, I admired Michael Vick in the beginning. Right now I forgive him for what he did. I will continue to pray for him and his family. Matt Ryan, congratulations!!

By Dean Rice

December 30, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Matt: A well deserved honor for a young man of character. Thanks for helping restore fan pride in the Falcons franchise. Thanks also, I’m sure you will agree, to the coaching staff from top to bottom who trusted your talents, your hard nosed Off line, your gifted receivers, meanass defense, and our great running backs. They share in your honor and I’m sure in our hope that you don’t outgrow your headgear. All the best to you and the team; happy and healthy for all in ‘09.

By Quick

December 30, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Can we delete this blog, I don’t want Matt Ryan to read some of these blogs and form a conclusion that the WHOLE city is a bunch of ignorant racist rednecks.

By ATL fan 1008

December 30, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt! Thank you for restoring the excitement to our city and Falcons football.

By VIrtual Fan

December 30, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

They still cant even congratulate Matt Ryan unless they mention the person that’s REALLy on their minds!! LMAO!! Not even a congratulatory post, gotta mention the REAL #1 QB for the Falcons, forever and always! Can’t even deny it anymore..they just GOTTA TALK ABOUT 7! LMAO! Sorry Matt! You’ll always be #2 in more ways than one!

By Jonathan

December 30, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Obama/Ryan 2012! Go vote! Thanks Matt for all you have done for this organization. You probably were not thrilled when you knew you were coming to Atlanta, but now hopefully you are! And Jessica Simpson should be coming your way soon so be ready!

By Jonathan

December 30, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Obama/Ryan 2012! Go vote! Thanks Matt for all you have done for this organization. You probably were not thrilled when you knew you were coming to Atlanta, but now hopefully you are! And Jessica Simpson should be coming your way soon so be ready!

By RR7

December 30, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Quick, Why not pray for them? God is forgiving you what you mentioned.

By JohnnyReb

December 30, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

“Quick”, how about you delete yourself so Ryan can pleased that there’s no candy@$$, limpwristed pinkos infesting his this blog (in his honor)!

By Michelle

December 30, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

thank you for giving us january football!!!

By HODI

December 30, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt - wish I were 20 years younger - you stallion!

By BCbob

December 30, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Matt: Great year, well deserved award. Not so surprising since, as a BC grad/fan, I’ve been observing for five years. I remember the hit vs Clemson that marked you as a keeper. August doubters have become December believers. Atlanta’s pride was BC’s before. Good luck next week, your “northern” friends will be weatching with a smile.

By Blank Thanks You

December 30, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Too bad the AP can’t write enough stories to force more than 64,000 people to get to the Dome and snatch up all those #2 jerseys before Falcons 365 has its big liquidation sale! I know the Falcons extended that season ticket renewal thing because ummm…well….because they..ummm had too? All the accolades in the world dont seem to be adding up to what they wanted, as many of these ealier comments prove.

By Cathy

December 30, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

What an amazing year! Thanks Matt for restoring the respect our Falcons deserve.You have removed the stain that two selfish individuals left in our great city.

By JRI

December 30, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Thanks to Dimitriov! Ryan, would be getting this award with another team had it not been for his eye for talent!

By Karen

December 30, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Matt - You have been an awesome addition to the Falcons. You deserve this honor. Keep going higher.

By Clint Hardy

December 30, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt, you not only earned the award, but you deserve it. Keep the momentum going to the Super Bowl

By Rufio

December 30, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

I think Tim Lincecum said it best:

WOOOOO HOOOOO!

Thank you Matt Ryan! What a Year!

By Andy T

December 30, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

MATTY ICE……MATTY ICE…..NICE!!!!!! CONGRATS!

By THE GREAT BASHINI

December 30, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Matt, I’ve been a Falcons Fan since I came to Ga. from Vt. in 1971 and Mike and

By 4th and goal

December 30, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

In a Ferari, a Jaguar…..

Switching four lanes…..

Top down, screaming out…..

MONEY AIN’T A THANG!!…..72 MIL $

Congratulations to Matt Ryan and the 2008 Atlanta Falcons!! I haven’t been this excited since 2002.

Matt Ryan, you can ball your @$$ off!! Keep up the good work! I can’t tell you how much fun this season has been.

By UGA Dawg

December 30, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt, Man what a great season for you and all of your Falcon teammates and coaching staff!! Coach Smith is great too!!! UGA, GA Tech and the Falcons have had good seasons! Go Falcons!!!

By CRisher

December 30, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Matt, You are the #1 real quarterback in Atlanta now. You will be for many years to come. You will set the new standard for quarterbacks in the league and you do it with humility and real heart. Coach Smith and the coaching staff, Michael Turner, You, and the rest of the team have worked so hard for everything you have accomplished this year so far. FINISH STRONG! It is not over.

By FalconFan

December 30, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

CONGRATAS MATT RYAN!!

By marko

December 30, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

I’m thrilled for Matt and sincerely sorry for Flacco. Still you can only have one winner, and the voters got it right. Matt has done a lot more than win a few football games, hes made us proud to be Falcon fans again.

By FREE MIKE VICK

December 30, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Typical white America. The idea of a black man doing well scares you all to death, so to compensate, you prop up a retard in Matt Ryan and celebrate. Had the Falcons given Vick half the chance they gave Ryan, he would have been rookie of the year……have fun at your retard party.

By Commission is Owed

December 30, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

SAME WITH MATT SCHAUB. THE HATE FOR MV7 IS THE ONLY REASON THIS MATT IS GETTING ALL THE GLORY. MATT SCHAUB WAS ABLE TO PARLAY IT INTO A BIG CONTRACT WHEN ITS PLAIN AS DAY HE IS MEDIOCRE…AND MATT RYAN IS ABLE TO CAPITALIZE ON THE SAME RABID HATE WHILE THE OTHER MICHAEL, TURNER THAT IS, HAS CARRIED THE OFFENSE ON HIS BACK, UNDER HIS ARM, AND DRAGGED IT INTO THE ENDZONE TIME AND TIME AGAIN. BUT SOME FOLKS NEED A GOLDEN BOY BECAUSE THEY CANT STAND TO SEE THEIR LIL KIDS KEEP BEGGING FOR THE JERSEYS OF THE “MICHAEL’S”!!

By FalconFan#1

December 30, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Matty Ice TO DO LIST [X] Winning season. Check [X] Playoffs. Check [X] Rookie award. Check. (Congrats) [ ] Win a playoff game. To do. [ ] Back to back winning seasons. To do. [ ] Bring Atlanta its 1st Superbowl! To do.

Good start Matty! But there’s still work to do!!! (Spoken like a true coach and fan). Way to go Ryan! Awesome job.

By Pasley

December 30, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Way to go, Matt! Congrats on an excellent year, and good luck in the playoffs! I look forward to watching you for years to come.

GO FALCONS!!

By Isam V

December 30, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Well done Mattie! You deserve it and we’re all very proud of you. Thank you so much for a wonderful season and we’re still playing this Saturday!

By Oh Please

December 30, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

I haven’t seen Matty Ice giving back to the community! I haven’t seen him doing any charity work at ALL. He doesn’t care about Atlanta at all apparently! Where has he been during this economic crisis when many shelters and food banks were crying out for help! Those same players these racists loved to bash always gave! But not one thing from this so-called “great character” guy!

Now watch them all come and say its not young Matt’s responsibility and yada yada yada….let me get popcorn.

By Matt

December 30, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Congrats on the Rookie of the Year and thank you for making the Falcons fun to watch again. Beat the Cardinal!

By Walt

December 30, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Matt,

Your selection as Offensive Rookie of The Year is well deserved. My heartfelt congratulations to you and your family. You’ve made professional football in Atlanta exciting again for us “Falcon Loyalists”. You’re blessed having White, Turner, Norwood, Jenkins, Douglas, and crew surround you. If you continue to share your success- by recognizing those around you that make you successful- you’ll develop a winning ingredient- for all to follow.

God Bless You, and Coach Mike Smith!

Walt Casteel Alpharetta, Georgia

By cb

December 30, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Congrats. Well deserved.

By Mularkey Using BC Offense

December 30, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Joe Flacco didn’t have what Matt Ryan had…which is a rabid hate for the former QB…oh…and it helps if the offensive coordinator is using the schemes and terminology from the rookie’s college days!

By AJ

December 30, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt, I knew when I watched you at B.C. that you had that special intangible quality that doesn’t always show up in the stats…..the ability to lead your team to victory, sometimes even when you are not having your best game statistically. Keep the season going in the playoffs. I believe you can lead the Falcons to the Superbowl!!! Congratulations again on a well deserved award. Now let’s go bring home the Super Bowl trophy!

By Byers

December 30, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

In the words of Al Michaels “do you believe in miracles” Because that’s what you are to us long suffering Falcons fans. You Matt, along with coach Smith, Arthur Blank, and all of your teamates have made the entire city of Atlanta proud. I heard Troy Aikman say Sunday that when you look at Matt Ryan and the Falcons you have to think this team is going to be around for a while. I’ve been in Atlanta longer than the Falcons, and we’ve had a FEW really good teams, but I’ve never felt as optimistic about the future for our team as I do now. Thank You and congratulations for your well deserved award.

By frank delfino

December 30, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Matt…

Congratulations to you , from a big Boston College & Patriots fan ! You deserve every accolade as you were a real winner up here in Boston and a class act ! The Falcons organization is so fortunate to have you ! The very best of luck to you and your teammates in the playoffs…hope you win the Lombardi Trophy !!!

By David M

December 30, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

We are very proud of you!! We are lucky to have you on our team! You have helped give a lifeline to the Falcons!

By Morton

December 30, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

This is going to sound like a country music hit record, but in 2008, I have been financially wiped out, I’m currently going through a terrible divorce, my separated wife stole my three wonderful puppies, I’m having to put everything I own up for sale, and amidst that pain and despair, you and the Falcons have brought the only real joy into my life that I’ve known all year. Congrats on your deserved honor. What you and your teammates have accomplished is nothing short of a miracle, and you all deserve to hold your heads up high regardless the outcome of the playoffs.

I want to add that not only have you done a great job, but the playcalling on offense has been terrific, other than a couple of red zone lapses. Mularkey deserves raves for what he’s done.

Defensively, I am shocked at what the team has done to turn a really mediocre effort last year into this? How was it done? I know we don’t yet have the horses, but unknown names have come up from nowhere to deliver a really solid performance. I just can’t say enough about the team as a whole, the coaching, the management, etc. Fabulous job guys. We’re so very proud of you it brings tears to my eyes just to write these words. You have made my season, and I will be with you all the way. Thanks.

By Supes

December 30, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan, congratulations on being named 2008 Offensive Rookie of the year in the NFL!

You have brought dignity, respect, leadership and all the intangibles that make a future great NFL QB to our Atlanta Falcons!

The Real Atlanta Falcons Fans salute you and wish you all the best in the Playoffs and your NFL career!

Congrats and let’s go get a road playoff win in Arizona!

GO FALCONS!

By Jimmy Baughcum

December 30, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt. You and this team have reinvigorated my excitement over football in Atlanta again. Stay consistent and healthy. You’ve got it in you.

By Dee

December 30, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Congrats, Matty! Well deserved! Keep it up, kid! Vick who?!?

By YouGotThatRight!

December 30, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Very well deserved, Matt. You’ve been fun to follow all season long. Every game seemed to show a higher level of achievement… even in losses. Your performance in that loss to New Orleans stands in my mind as one of your greatest games.

Thanks for the memories. Now give us some more!

By Jeff

December 30, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

I must admit, I wanted to draft defense. Thanks for making me eat my words Matty Ice!!!

By Supaman81

December 30, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Stupid people, The NFL’s Rookie of the year hasnt been announced yet…

Ryan is a mediocre QB with a great team behind him.

I know White people are rejoicing!!!!!!!!, “Michael Who!!!!!????”, Now yall can go to your clan meetings with Matt Ryan jerseys…

By joni

December 30, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

thanks for bringing football back to atlanta…congrats on rookie of the year you deserve it….

By Falcons fan in Germany

December 30, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Big time congrats to our franchise QB! Well deserved Matt, you are a beast of a player and deserve this award I believe more than any player in the history of the game. You stepped into a horrible situation and handled it like a true professional and exceeded all expectations…including mine as a 10 yr Falcons fan. Here’s to a long and prosperous career.

By Fan

December 30, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Thank you for being a Hero

By RyanRules!

December 30, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Hats off to Matt! He’s a great QB & a classy guy who’s taken the Falcons back in the right direction. In the mold of (NFL best) Manning brothers & Tom Brady, Ryan has got many Pro Bowl seasons ahead!

By Cole

December 30, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Great Job Matt!!! I told Mr. Lane and Stacy that you would win Offensive Rookie of the Year but they didn’t won’t to believe me. You have to over look dallas fans. Again Great Job!!!

Go Falcons!!!!!!!!

By willie

December 30, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Congrats matt..we’re all very proud of you. You’ve help bring honor back to not only the Falcons but the city of Atlanta as well. Win or lose the rest of the way; well done.

By Derric

December 30, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Hey, congradulations, Matt! Ignore the haters on here. As a Black Falcons fan, just know that you are loved here in Atlanta and don’t let any fool tell you any different. You deserve this award. NOW GET US TO A SUPERBOWL!! GO FALCONS!!!

By Selinda

December 30, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Congratulations, Matt, for being named the NFL Rookie of the Year. You deserve it; you have been outstanding this year, and so has the team. It has been a wonderful year to be a Falcons fan, and you all have brought a lot of excitement to the fans. The success of this team starts from the top on down, so thank you also to Thomas Dimitroff, Mike Smith, Arthur Blank, and all the team. Now, let’s win in Arizona - we’ll be watching, and again congratulations, Matt.

By a

December 30, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Matt - awesome, enjoy…now it’s time to go for Super Bowl MVP. You can do it

By joe white

December 30, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Congrats matt keep up the good work. Vick still owns this city.

By Luv 2 Hate Me

December 30, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Supaman81: Sorry brotha but Matt is a better quarterback. Yes he has a good cast behind him but he makes better decisions in the pocket than slick vick. Yes I’m African American Supaman81!

By MV7 Worshippers Get Over It!

December 30, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

You Vick nut-riders are such jack@$$es! Not only was he a typical thug off the field (enabled by his “star” status), but was grossly overrated & over-hyped (on the field)! The “caste gods” & marketing machine helped get Vick over! Ryan will be 10x the QB ever would have been!!!

By RW

December 30, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt!!Rookie quarterbacks are not supposed to to do as well as you have this year!!Teams that are 4-12 their previous year are not supposed to be in the playoffs the following year!The Falcons are not supposed to win the Super Bowl this year either!Go Falcons!!!!!!!!

By chippersgirl

December 30, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Congratulations! You deserve it. Thanks for a great year!

By Gwen

December 30, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

I am just so proud, I no longer live in Georgia but I am die hard Falcons fan win or lose. Thank you so much Matt for a great season

By Matthew

December 30, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt! Keep working hard, and make sure that this is just the beginning, not the top. Thanks for helping to make this season memorable, can’t wait for the playoffs!

By marshall

December 30, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

matt, i will say that i was in the defensive mindset during draft time but i am extremely happy to say that you have more than proved me wrong & you have gained a lifelong fan in the process!! take it to the next level.. bring us home a super bowl trophy!!!!!! you’re the man!

By Jen

December 30, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS Ryan!!!! What a job well done! Keep up the good work and GO Falcon’s!!!!

By Veda/McKinney TX.

December 30, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

What is wrong with you people? Michael Vick was NOT a good QB! He did not allow the other players to shine, he wanted ALL the glory. He was a NOT a nice person, he disrespected women, his fans and the people of Atlanta. His prison sentence is nothing more than a slap on the wrist and he deserved much more. I hope he is never allowed to play in the NFL again. Enough said about that garbage.

This is Matt’s day, allow Atlanta to shine with this fine QB.

By boxer99

December 30, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Hey “Free Mike Convick”, nobody put convick in the situation he is in but himself. As soon as baboons like you and rest of his supporters realize that the more miserable your going to be. If it makes you feel better maybe you and “angry” can be there when he gets out. Figure out where his half way house is, and meet him there. Bring him some watermelon and fried chicken Im sure he will appreciate it. By way congrats to Matt Ryan for winning the award, it was well deserved. Its nice to have a QB with integrity. By the way “White America” is the back bone of this country. PLain and simple. I dont have a doubt that it has supported baboons like you for your whole pathetic existance

By Rob

December 30, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!!! Thank you for a great season…ALL of you guys have really played your hearts out and turned this team around…My faith in the falcons has now been restored.

By Dr. Warren

December 30, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Matt—As a native Atlantan and lifelong Falcons fan, I have been paying for the games on Yahoo all season to watch you from SHANGHAI, CHINA!!! It has been worth every penny and every tired Monday. You’re now ROY. Why not Super Bowl MVP?

By boxer99

December 30, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

@”Free Convick” I guess you wont be attending our retard party. Thats too bad I needed someone to take people coates and clean dishes when the party was over. Im very disappointed!

By Exodus Mentality

December 30, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

This is the most deserving Rookie of the Year award I have seen in a long time. And that in a year when a lot of rookies came in and made a big splash. I got nothing but love for you Mattie Ice.

And it needs to be said that far too much has been made of how you removed some “stain” from the franchise. It is patently unfair to you that your stellar first season will be forever placed in context of the particularly bad season before you got here. The dismal performance of this organization last year didn’t and shouldn’t define, or even continue to frame, the outstanding accomplishments of the 2008 Playoff Bound Falcons team.

Not nearly enough has been made of how you came into the league and stepped up the challenge. You earned the spot, and you earned every win. You made mistakes and you kept your head up in every loss. You showed leadership when you could have gotten away with just being competent. Those are true Rookie of the Year and future MVP qualities.

Keep up the Good Work.

By Ronnie

December 30, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Congratulations! You deserve it and a big thanks to the Falcons team for a great year! The biggest Falcons Fan in Arizona. Go Falcons. Ronnie

By J Scott

December 30, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Very Good! Way to go! Super Job! You deserve it and so does the team. See you at the Superbowl! Go Falcons! from Joyce and Reginald Scott

By ATLbirds

December 30, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

CONGRATS Matt! Thank you for bringing a bright light back to Atlanta and for removing the dark cloud that has been hanging over us! Thanks to ALL of the Falcons for such a great season! Keep it going til February!!

By rita gresham

December 30, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

attitude!!! attitude!!!

go falcons!! hats off to all you guys

team players!!!!!

By Maurice

December 30, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

This is for congrats on a season well performed by you, Mr. Matt Ryan. Thank you for doing what no other Falcon quarterback before has done before. Thank you for laughing at the face of danger and taking names. Thank you for that massive flip you did while trying to score a touchdown. Thank you for trusting Finneran, White, Jenkins, Douglass, Peele, Turner, Baker, McClure, you know your offense. Thank you for being a student of the game. Thank you for being humble. Thank your parents for realizing your strengths and talent. Thank you for wanting to come to Atlanta and not wanting a sign and trade to go to another team. Also with this, I want to thank Turner for being better than I thought he would be, White for being who he should have been two years ago, and Norwood for playing his role to a “T” and performing like we know he can at the last game of the regular season.

Mike Smith you’ve done a great job with this team. Your “Process” works and I’m glad you became our coach. Thank you and Mike Mularkey for you diligence and commitment to teamwork and excellence.

GREAT SEASON FALCONS! Let Go to the SUPER BOWL!

By The Truth Comes Out

December 30, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

To all the Vick supporters. We real Falcon fans have a good reason to celebrate Matt Ryans accomplishment he is offensive rookie of the year and is in the playoffs! Your boy however is suspended by the NFL and is in the prison system. Get over him and celebrate the new clean image Falcons that are winning with class.

By Boo Troup

December 30, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Matt….congrats and thanks sooo much!!! I’ve been a Falcon Fan all my life and it’s sooo good to have so much promise with this franchise! Keep it up and I can’t wait to throw a Falcons Super Bowl party/tailgate!

By Matt

December 30, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Nicely done Matt! FALCONS fans are proud of you!

By Hal

December 30, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Thank You Matt you have really been outstanding and have shown such maturity. I hope you realize the impact you have had on this city. I have lived here 54 years and you are a fine young man and i believe i know who you put first in your life. You are awesome did not get down there this year but will definitely be there next year. Good Luck in Playoff’s.Be careful when you are running there are lineman out there to hurt you. Just Thank you so much the whole dynamic’s of the team has changed. Hal

By Kim

December 30, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt. You are having an awesome first year. It is an honor well deserved! Your hard work and dedication is highly rewarded and appreciated.

By Gerald

December 30, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Matt youda Man! But make sure you buy steaks for you RB’s, receivers, and OT. ANd the Coaches. You guys all deserve an Award, even if you don’t make the S-Bowl. I’ll be at that P’tress ST parade rain or shine!!!

By Mike

December 30, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Matt: Thank You man for our winning season ! Oh my god, what an incredible year its been for the ATLANTA FALCONS ! Congratulations to you for a well deserved award. Best of luck to you guys in the playoffs……Mike

By BartholameauJohnson

December 30, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matty, what a great season! Wow. I am in complete awe of your talent. Dont go airborne again and dive into the end zone. You can get advice on how to do that play from jailbird Mike Vick who was probably the greatest running qb of all times in his brief short NFL career. Vick knows how to run the football, but thats all he can do. Thanks again Matty for such a wonderful season. Lets win four more games and go home superbowl champions.

By Emack

December 30, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

CONGRATS!!!!! MATT…THAT MEANS A LOT COMMING FROM A BIG VICK SUPPORTER. GOOD LUCK IN THE POST SEASON.

By Die hard Falcons fans

December 30, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Congrats!!! You deserve it. Let’s go all the way.

By gwatl

December 30, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS!! You have brought a lot of pride back to Atlanta. Keep your integrity intact on the wild ride you are about to take!! Thanks for a super season — which just may be restarting!!

By ALVIN WILLIAMS

December 30, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

GREAT JOB MATT YOU HAVE A GOOD CAREER AHEAD,LET GO TO THE SUPERBOWL!!!!!!!!!

By Babygurl

December 30, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Congrats!!!!!!!!!

By Peachy

December 30, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Matt, thank you for helping to revitalize this team, this town, and all its loyal fans! You are doing an AWESOME job out there! I look forward to watching your career progress. GO DIRTY BIRDS!

By Kim

December 30, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matty (Ice) Ryan!! You more than deserve it. Savor it and keep on working hard! Now our family doesn’t get made fun of for being Falcons fans!

By DeeMan

December 30, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Great job Matt. I am/was a big Vick supporter, but above all, I was a Falcon supporter. Thanks for giving us something to look forward to and again…..great job!

By Jackon

December 30, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt!!!!!Go Falcons beat the Cardinals!

By RevScott

December 30, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Congrats! You’ve made us so proud from the time the Falcons drafted you until now. Keep working hard!

By Jay

December 30, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt. I was one of the people hoping for Glenn Dorsey and I have never been so happy to be proved wrong! Thank you.

By Koji

December 30, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Matt!!!! You saved our Falcons. Keep it going this Saturday, and beat Cardinals. Falcons All The Way!!!!!

By BossLady

December 30, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Congratulations, Matt I appreciate all you have done to rejuvenate the Atlanta fans. Thanks so much!

By Bill

December 30, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Way to go Mate. You and your team mates did a bloody good job also Coach Smith and assts. Go Falcons! Matt #1

By joel

December 30, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt. Keep it up through the playoffs.

By Vick Supporter

December 30, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

You’ve done a great job Matt. I’ll give you your props.

By DC Tech Fan

December 30, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks for giving us back the Falcons!

By KWD

December 30, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Congratulations on the award and an awesome rookie season Matt!! Good luck in the postseason and in your career!!

By JAD

December 30, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

You are the man Matt! Thanks for all the excitment you brought to Atlanta this year!!! Kick butt in Arizona.

By Derrick

December 30, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt, As a lifelong falcon fan last year with the VICK and PETRINO situations was just more than a losing season it was probably one of the most darkest times for a pro sports team. As a true fan it was very embarrasing the way the season played out. Thanks to you and the “Burner”, John abraham, roddy,Lawer,Keith ,and all the CLASS ACT players to get the bad taste out of here we look forward to thing in the future reguardless of how this season ends.Final kudos to Mr. Blank Thomas D and Mike Smith. Ps. Jesse Tuggle HOF

By Stanley

December 30, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt, you have been a excellant addition to our team. You should have made the Pro Bowl, but that’s a whole other story. Maybe Abraham,can lay a lick on Warner and you can go in as an alternate. I’ll keep my fingers crossed. Anyway, good luck in the playoff, and thanks for helping turn our franchise around. Go Falcons!!!!!

By Jason

December 30, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Matt You Are The MAN!! I am always so pumped come football sundays about this team and you just it made it that much better!! Superbowl Champs on the horizon!!

By saywhat

December 30, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt, you deserve it. You, along with the rest of the Falcons, have put a lot of smiles on peoples faces this year (as opposed to frawns the last several). You might not have the fight of MV, but you have more in throwing accuracy, precision, brains, discipline, and character. I look forward to many great years with you as QB.

By eb

December 30, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Congratulations! You, Mike Turner, and a professional coaching and front office staff have finally given hope to long time Falcons fans—thanks!!!

By Chris & Lisa

December 30, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS, MATT!! We appreciate the huge impact you have had on the Falcons and their inspiring turn around this year. Can’t wait to see you in Tampa for the Big Dance!

By Kabob

December 30, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

* Atlanta loves you Matt Congrats on everything you’ve done for this town!! *

By Ric

December 30, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matty Ice, the best draft pick in the history of the organization.

By GHook

December 30, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt, and the entire Falcons organization. Excellent work from top to bottom.

Now make some noise in the playoffs!

By James

December 30, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Way to go ice man

By Brut

December 30, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Yes, nice job Rookie!

By Bill from Dublin

December 30, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Kudos, Matty Ice! We’re naming our next 3 kids Mat, Matt, and Matty! Go do it 4 more times this year!

By Steve

December 30, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt, I’m also a long time Falcon Fan. It’s amazing to see what true Quarterback means to a team. It’s been forever since we’ve seen one in Atlanta. How you and the team carry yourself on & off the field means so much. Nice to see class for a change!!!!

By MDG

December 30, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

You are the man, Matt Ryan - Good luck in Arizona!

By SHORTY

December 30, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

MATT I HAVE FOLLOWED THE FALCONS IN GOOD TIMES AND IN BAD. THREE YEARS AGO I MOVED AND WE ARE UNABLE TO GET MOST OF THE FALCONS GAMES. BUT WHEN I CAN I AM SO EXCITED. YOU ARE THE BREATH OF FRESH AIR THAT NOT ONLY THE FALCONS NEEDED BUT ATLANTA AS WELL. YOU DESERVE THE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARD AND AS A FALCON FAN I AM VERY PROUD. IT IS NICE TO HEAR SPORTS ANNOUNCERS TALKING ABOUT ATLANTA AGAIN AND IT NOT IN A NEGATIVE LIGHT. THANK YOU AGAIN.

By Calvin

December 30, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Well done. Keep this up and I will be sure to buy tickets next season :) Seriously, wonderful job performed by all of you from the head coach on down. Great to experience good football. Not a falcons fan but that may change. Good luck in the playoffs. Anythings possible as this year has already proven.

By 1911A1

December 30, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Congratulations on a well-deserved award, and congratulations to you and the entire Falcons organization - players, coaches, and front office - for an amazing season! As honored as you must feel for being awarded Rookie of the Year, it likely pales in comparison to the feeling you’re enjoying from being part of a team of playoff-bound WINNERS. I think I speak for many of my fellow fans when I say it feels pretty good for us, too!

Now go buy a side of beef for those Big Eaters on the OL who have taken such great care of you this season!

By Phi

December 30, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Congrats M.R.!! It’s been a great season. Let’s play for a couple more weeks. Go Falcons!

By LC

December 30, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matt! Well deserved. Great job this year. You have made all of Atlanta proud.

By Kevin

December 30, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks to Mr. Ryan for not only paving the way for a winning season but also being a class act in your first season. I can see no other Rookie of the Year candidate more deserving of this award since Peyton Manning.

By Mike T.

December 30, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Congrats, Matt, Thanks for your part in turning the Falcons around.The Bartkowski/Andrews years were good and so were the Chandler/Anderson ones also, but I think the best ones are now.Good luck in the playoffs.

By George Lee Cross III MD

December 30, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Great job! I am looking forward to your ten pro bowl appearances and the Falcon Dynasty.

By Ron House

December 30, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

Congrats…you have the city fired up again about OUR Atlanta Falcons. Continue the good effort.

By Eric

December 30, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Congrats on what has been a great rookie season. You are a great player and seem like a terrific role model which is great to see because I have an 8 year old son who is a football junkie. Hopefully he and I get to watch you play a few more games this season (all the way to the SB).

By NCFalconFan

December 30, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

I am glad you are my QUATERBACK!!

By donald

December 30, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Shut up you racist Vick fans!! Go Falcons!!

By WRFan

December 30, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Matty Ice and the whole team. Great year, let’s keep it up in Arizona.

By Michael Vick

December 30, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Good job! I left you a great time and he are just as good as me. Come see me in prision and maybe we can play some one on one (hint, hint). I will be back in a year and I will probably tryout for a flag football team.

Peace, Mike Vick MV7 LLC (Bankruptcy Status)

By hank

December 30, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

congrats matt you rock i am glad ure a falcon

By HB

December 30, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

See what happens when you have a quarterback with a BRAIN!!!!!!!!! One that is not a thug. Way to go Matt congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Billy

December 30, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Congrats Matt! You had a great season and this award is well-deserved!

By Ryder

December 30, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

It’s only the beginning of the legacy of Matty Ice!!!! Congratulations and go get ‘em on Saturday and beyond!

By Whatever

December 30, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

The Falcons would be better of if we drafted: Glenn Dorsey at 3rd, had Ravens draft Matt Ryan at 18th and we drafted Joe Flacco at 21st instead of Sam Baker. Way to go Dimitroff. So much for a college scout specialist. The reason for this mistake because we wanted to cover up forever the MV7 situation. Way to go for not thinking about the team itself and just MV7.

By Big Drew

December 30, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Way to go Matty Ice! Go Falcons!

By Linda

December 30, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Congratulations! Its a well deserved honor and remember to always stay humble and be kind to animals and you’ll have a terrific career right here in the ATL!

By The Tower of Power

December 30, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

If the Vickheads would follow their lord and savior to another state, I bet Georgia’s average SAT score would increase by 300 points.

What’s really sad is the fact that the Vickheads were honor graduates in Clayton County.

Oh, well, y’all keep on keepin’ it real!

By Renewed Falcon

December 30, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

First time since Super Bowl I have followed Falcons. thanks for a great year Matt.

By Kimmie

December 30, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt! And the entire Falcons organization. You defied all odds and closed the mouths of the naysers. I am proud of this team again. I thought it would take years to turn this team around. Arthur Blank and his team performed a miracle. One the very best things they could have done was to pick you! I love watching your game and look forward to more exciting years to come. May God continue to bless you and your team. Beat the crap out of Arizona!!! LOL!!!

By ToeKnee

December 30, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

If I were a woman I’d marry you…screw it lets do it anyways I love you go falcons!

By Greg

December 30, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt on a great season. Continued success in the playoffs. Your biggest Coatesville fan living in Atlanta.

By JSearcy

December 30, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

YOUDABOMB Matt!

With no mention of the preceding QB, you have shocked ALL Falcon Fans around the country with your performance as a Rookie. This honor should make you weep with pride - not just for yourself but for the pride you’ve helpe restore in the Falcons Team. So a hearty BRAVO ZULU to you personally and take it to field and beat Arizona!!

By Judy

December 30, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt. And congratulations to the entire team for a fabulous year! I have truly enjoyed watching all the games. Good luck in the playoffs! I’ll be watching and cheering you on!!!

By Long Time Fan

December 30, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Matt Ryan!!!! You deserved it for the role you played in leading this team back to the playoffs!!!! Congratulations to the entire team as well, players, coaches, the GM, and the Owner!!!! Keep up the awesome work!! I look forward to Saturday!!!! GO FALCONS !!!!!!!!

By Jessica

December 30, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks for bringing us back Matt. Thanks for bringing us back!!!! Playoffs here we come….

By Lee G

December 30, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

I know you’ll never read this, but congrats on the award. Continue striving to be your best for the greater good. I just hope it is not and never will be about the money, but for the love of the game. Continue to try to be better and look yourself in the mirror after each game and ask yourself if you tried you best, whether you won or lost. If you can answer “yes” each time, then you have nothing to be upset about in losing and can enjoy it more when you win. Always be real and good hearted and we, the fans, will always follow you. Go Falcons! Congrats!

By Kirkwood

December 30, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

Great job, Peace and prosperity.

By Matt W.

December 30, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Way to go, Matt! You richly deserve it. For this Falcon fan for the past 35+ years, you’ve been a pleasant surprise and pleasure to watch this season. And I look forward to watching you win many more games for seasons to come. Good luck to you and the rest of team in the playoffs and in the future!

By Angela Henderson

December 30, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Matty Ice-

Congratulations on making this football season a joy to watch for all Falcons Fans. We truly admired your poise and professionalism on and off the field. This is your first accolade in what I am sure will be many more to come, young man. Stay humble and grounded and much success to you. See you in Arizona and once again congrats!!!!!

GO FALCONS!!!!

By sea7855

December 30, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

THANKS!!!!!!! MR. TURNER FOR SUCH A GREAT RUNNING GAME. YOU ARE OUR HERO!!!!!!!!!IF IT HAD BEEN W. DUNN WE WOULD HAVE SUCKEDDDDDDDDDDD…FORGET MATT… HE WILL NEVER COME CLOSE TO HAVING THE SKILLS OF THE GREAT MICHAEL VICK!!!!!!!!! BY THE WAY WHEREEVER VICK GOES THE REAL FALCONS FANS WILL GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO LOL……………………………

By Stephen

December 30, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

To: Sea7855

You are oooohhhh soooo wrong…real Falcons fans were into the team way before Vick ever played college football or drafted into the NFL. Real Falcons fans support the ENTIRE TEAM and not ONE PLAYER!!!

GO MATT RYAN (Congratulations on your ROY designation) and thanks to the entire TEAM for a great year of football. GO FALCONS!!

By PR

December 30, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

We have Football in Atlanta since the Ice Man showed up

Congrats ROY

By sea7855

December 30, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

MATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT RYANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN SUCKSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

By Sorry AJC

December 30, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

SORRY AJC, I KNOW YOUR INTERNS ARE TIRED OF POSTING ALL THE PRAISE FOR MATT RYAN. IN ORDER TO GET 300 COMMENTS YOU PROBABLY JUST NEED TO POST A BLOG TITLED “MIKE VICK” AND THEN YOU’LL GET THAT MAGIC NUMBER. ITS CLEAR FROM THE OBVIOUS SAME SENTENCE STRUCTURE THAT ITS LIKE 10 PEOPLE POSTING OVER AND OVER AGAIN. BETTER TRAIN YOUR INTERNS BETTER IN THE FUTURE!!

By Nigeria's # 1 fan

December 30, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

I now have something to show my kids about how life has a way of making a situation that can seem so bleak and disappointing end up turn out to be a blessing in disguise thank you Matt

By Uncle Binco

December 30, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Way to Go Matt! Congrats on the honor. I hope this is the start of a successful and great career.

By Tandy

December 31, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

I LOVE YOU MATT UR SO CUTE I WILL MAKE A SIGH 4 U AND BRING TO AZ I LOVE YOU!!

By Sophie Shapiro

December 31, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

I hate my father……I do!