Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was not too concerned about Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre’s comments that he needs to win in the playoffs.
“Obviously, I have a ton of respect for Brett,” Ryan said. “He was one my idols growing up. I think he’d say the same thing, if I’m worried about that now, it doesn’t matter. I’ve always felt that you’ve got to concentrate on this week and not look to far down the road.”
Favre, who has a regular spot on Sirius XM NFL Radio, discussed Ryan's play and career after the win over the Saints earlier this week. After flopping with the Falcons, Favre went on to take Green Bay to two Super Bowls and posted a 1-1 mark.
“Until you win playoff games and get to the big game, that’s always going to dog you,” Favre said. “I don’t think it’s a knock necessarily on him and him only. I think there’s a lot of reasons why they haven’t gone any further. Mainly, their defense has not matched their offense, at times.”
Ryan guided the Falcons to the playoffs as a rookie back in 2008. He took the Falcons to the playoffs in four of his first five seasons in the league.
The Falcons reached the NFC championship game in 2012 and were within 10 yards of going to the Super Bowl after blowing a 17-0 lead.
The Falcons have not been to the playoffs over the past three seasons with the team posting 4-12, 6-10 and 8-8 marks.
Ryan has a 1-4 playoff record.
“For me, I’m not worrying about anything (except) getting ready to play well and play the best I can this week,” Ryan said. “We’ll handle all of the other stuff when that comes, down the line.”
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