Two-minute drill: Q&A with Michael Turner

Background: A seven-year veteran, Turner was signed as an unrestricted free agent in 2008 after starting his career with the San Diego Chargers as an understudy to LaDainian Tomlinson. He played sparingly as a backup for four seasons before coming to the Falcons. He was a major building block in the team's return to respectability after the tumultuous 2007 season. He rushed for 1,699 yards and helped the Falcons reach the playoffs. He suffered a high right ankle sprain that marred his 2009 season. Nicknamed "The Burner," he returned to form this season as he rushed for 1,371 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro Bowl for the second time.

Q: How tough was it coming back from your injury, and was it satisfying having another big season in 2010?

A: It means a lot. I've been working hard. I just had the injury last year. Being out there and being productive, part of it is staying healthy. It feels great to be out there with your team.

Q: Are you becoming more well-rounded as a running back?

A: I don't feel any differently. I'm still the same guy, and I'm trying to get better as a pass blocker and things like that. The [12 catches this season] was the most catches that I had in a season. I'm just working on some of the things that I've been getting better at. I was just trying to make some strides this season.

I'm catching the ball more, even though I dropped one [against Carolina]. I hope he doesn't stop coming my way.

Q: Has Tony Gonzalez been talking about wanting to win a playoff game?

A: He's been cool. We feed off him. He's not stressing about it. Maybe as it gets closer, he'll have some different feelings. Playoff wins are not guaranteed. I've been in a couple of playoff games. Some guys go their whole careers and never play in the playoffs or win a championship. We hope that Tony goes out with one. I told him that if we win it, he has to defend it.

Q: What's the difference between this NFC South title team and the 2008 wild-card team?

A: We were a very young team that year. We hadn't been in that situation before as a unit. Now we've got past that, and next time hopefully we can perform better and come out with a win.