The Falcons are fine with being 4 1/2-point underdogs at home and not getting much respect from the national media despite a 14-3 record.
“We have the 53 (players) in this locker room, that’s all that we need,” running back Michael Turner said on Wednesday. “To get respect, we have to earn it. We are not expecting any handouts. We know that San Fran isn’t going to lay down. They are going to come in here and fight hard. We are going to fight hard back.”
Some people contend that the 49ers have the upper hand because they reached the NFC Championship game last season before losing to the New York Giants 20-17.
“I think they have a better understanding because they came out of nowhere and made it to the NFC championship last year with a new head coach and everything,” said Turner, who played in the 2007 AFC Championship game with the San Diego Chargers, who lost to the New England Patriots 21-12. “This year, they are going to feel more comfortable. They know what to expect and what type of games it’s going to be.”
Rushing attack: The Falcons believe that it is vital to keep their rushing attack rolling against the 49ers after piling up a season-high 167 yards against Seattle.
“If felt good to play a major part,” said fullback Mike Cox, who was getting some tips from former Falcons fullback Ovie Mughelli on the finer points of lead blocking. “Just being out there and playing more snaps, I get a better connection with the running backs and stuff, too.”
The 49ers have a stout run defense.
“They are a physical group,” Cox said. “Very athletic and fast. But this is the final four to go to the Super Bowl. We wouldn’t expect anything less, so we’re going to be on top of our game.”
The Falcons want to run the ball and win the time-of-possession battle in order to help the defense.
“He’s a dangerous weapon at quarterback, the guy (quarterback Colin Kaepernick) over there,” Turner said. “We are going to keep it out of his hands as much as possible. On the other end, we have to score points.”
Some reports said the noise reached 117 decibels. Smith said he had a report that it reached 113. He said he couldn’t hear for two days, and he used ear plugs.
“It was great,” DeCoud said. “As a defense you always want the home crowd to get loud for you and help you mess up the offense.”
Etc.: Cornerback Asante Samuel didn't speak to the throngs of media during the open locker-room session Wednesday."Sorry, fellas I'm on a gag order," Samuel said. During the regular season, Samuel usually spoke on Thursdays. … With the rain, the Falcons moved their practice to their indoor facility. "The only thing we can't do inside is we can't punt the football," Smith said. "We weren't able to punt the ball like we normally do on our protection and punt coverage."
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