It’s OTA time for the Falcons

Second-year man Curtis Lofton calling signals in the defensive huddle at mini-camp. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC).

Second-year man Curtis Lofton calling signals in the defensive huddle at mini-camp. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC).

OTAVILLE – Took a little post-draft, post-mini-camp break.

Back up and ready to roll through the Organized Team Activities, then there will be another break for us before training camp.

The Falcons start their OTAs tomorrow at 10:15 a.m.

They are allowed to have 14 sessions, which are to be non-contact drills and can last no longer than six hours. Only two of those hours can be spent on the field.

While the drills are to be non-contact, seven-on-seven passing drills are allowable. The drills are not mandatory, so it’s always an issue when a veteran or two doesn’t show up.

The Falcons were near 100 percent last season. Which makes sense with a new coaching staff. This year it will be interesting to see if any of the veterans elect to miss a few of the sessions.

The Falcons will practice again on Thursday.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank welcomes rookie safety William Moore. OTAs will be important for Moore in his quest to land a starting spot. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC).

Falcons owner Arthur Blank welcomes rookie safety William Moore. OTAs will be important for Moore in his quest to land a starting spot. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC).

After this week, they will practice on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday over the next four weeks to get all of their 14 sessions end. After OTAs are completed on June 18, the team will break for the summer and reunite on July 31 for the opening of training camp.

The media will be allowed to attend five of the sessions, with each Wednesday has been designated by Coach Mike Smith as the media days.

With so many young players on the roster, the Falcons OTA sessions will be key.
On defense, seven of the 11 starters could be players with three years or less. The offense could have three starters.

Also, cornerback Von Hutchins, who broke his foot and spent last season on injured reserve, is expected to be available. First round draft pick Peria Jerry, who suffered a mild right knee sprain at mini-camp, is expected back.

Considering the youth of the Falcons team, how key are the OTA session for the Falcons? How much time should be used in the seven-on-seven drills to sharpen the passing attack? Do you expect all of the veterans to take part some or all of this non-mandatory workouts?

509 comments Add your comment

Sarah B

May 24th, 2009
10:09 pm

Well, no one answered my Tuggle question about what year he bacame a Falcon and what year I sat next to his Mother at his 1st game so here it is:

Jessie Floyd Tuggle (born April 4, 1965 in Griffin, Georgia) is a former professional American football linebacker who played for the Atlanta Falcons his entire career from 1987 to 2000. He graduated from Valdosta State College in Valdosta, Georgia. He appeared in the Pro Bowl five times, and assisted the Falcons to a championship appearance in Super Bowl XXXIII after the 1998 season.

In his 14 seasons, he recorded 1803 tackles (1165 solo), 21 sacks, 6 interceptions, which he returned for 106 yards and a touchdown, 10 forced fumbles and 37 pass deflections. He also recovered 9 fumbles, returning them for 155 yards and an NFL record 5 touchdowns.

His nickname is “The Hammer,” because of the impact of his tackles.

His son, Justin Tuggle, will be enrolling in Boston College on a football scholarship.

In 2007 he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

I looked it up myself…

Unca' Bob

May 24th, 2009
10:42 pm

jason,

Welcome to the Cage. Nuttin’ wrong with that package. Everyone is in this life with you . Trust me when I attempt to explain to you , no one comes into this world with full knowledge of everything. It’s a piece-meal process that comes along with what ever you choose to persue. I just wish I could claim the 101 status you claim. I’m more of a 0.1. You are a fine young man for whom the process, does indeed, continue.

Unca' Bob

May 24th, 2009
11:16 pm

Sarah B,

Young Jusin is no doubt, being scouted TD, Coach Smith & Co. The apple does not fall too far from the tree. That you got to meet his Mother, great stuff.

jason

May 25th, 2009
7:52 am

Unca’ Bob, I am old school in the way that i am alomost computer illiterate. I can barely type wll enough to blog. I can dabble in research (just dabble). I come on this blog because alot of you guys do such an excellent job of researching and then bringing the content over for all of us to share and read. Copy and paste, that’s like my worst nightmare, lol!!!. I get by just barely enough, to enjoy this blog.

Sarah B, I can’t believe Tuggle came to ATL in 1987. I thought it was more like 1984 or earlier. He was an undrafted FA, if I remember. He has to be the most famous Lifetime Atlanta Falcon.

jason

May 25th, 2009
8:24 am

Year Tm G GS Sk Int TD Fmb FR TD Tkl Ast

1987 ATL 12 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 35 -
1988 ATL 16 8 0 0 0 1 1 0 103 -
1989 ATL 16 16 1 0 0 0 1 1 183 -
1990 ATL 16 14 5 0 0 3 2 1 201 -
1991 ATL 16 16 1 1 0 1 2 1 207 -
1992 ATL 15 15 1 1 0 1 1 1 193 -
1993 ATL 16 16 2 0 0 1 1 0 185 -
1994 ATL 16 16 0 1 0 0 1 0 93 36
1995 ATL 16 16 1 3 1 1 0 0 111 41
1996 ATL 16 16 1 0 0 1 0 0 96 18
1997 ATL 16 16 1.5 0 0 0 0 0 69 23
1998 ATL 16 16 3 0 0 1 1 1 66 20
1999 ATL 14 14 3.5 0 0 0 0 0 72 19
2000 ATL 8 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 7

Sarah B, Figured I would drop his career stats. One of my all-time favorite players.

JJ

May 25th, 2009
9:44 am

Mornin’ falcon fanaticals!

- Coach Smith has a commercial on nfl tv where he states: “Fan is short for fanaticals”…I guess thats us! talking nfl in may..lol

- anyone seen the front page of ajc.com/sports? They have you pic 5 match ups on who should start-new bird or veteran bird. The last one has Peterson vs. Lofton? huh? Lets see: one is a middle linebacker and one is ILB. They dont play the same positions! Sorry, I’m still a little cranky over this weekends’ blog.

- Although Rudy is good, for my money “Any given Sunday” is tops, with “Invinsible” a close second. Anyway, Invincible was on yesterday and their was a great line that Dick Vermeils character said before the final game at the end of the movie:
” A team with great CHARACTER will beat a team with great TALENT!”

I think TD and Smitty are in the 2nd yr. “process” of aquiring both!!!

Sarah B – Are you predicting our birds will only go 8-8? Oh say it aint so girl!!!!!

JJ

May 25th, 2009
9:51 am

jason – we need a search party for D3!

jason

May 25th, 2009
10:11 am

JJ, I think Sarah B was talking about the home record.
I think D3 has been on the grill. Having some brews. The blog monster might stll be mad at him.
Yes the AJC sports page sucked this weekend. That newbie vs. vet was awful.
Invincilbe was an awesome movie. I own it. Rudy was well, is a collage football movie

The ladt thing… The new blog about MV was not the problem. The problem with it was that it should not have been a blog topic. It should have been like an editoral or something to the effect where no outdise opinions should have been given. It should have been DOL answering the questions he was asking. Not the fans and the readers. It’s like he invited all that immature crap onto his blog. I just don’t understand that. Bradley always does the contracersal. Schultz just takes a slapstick at comedy, usually fails. After what happened 2 years ago when the story was live, DOL should have knew better.

Sarah B

May 25th, 2009
10:18 am

Nooooo JJ we will pick up at Least 3-5 road games while winning all 8 at home. Don’t be silly! I AM sure this year we break that crappy No back to back winning seasons record. Write it down. I am sure!

Sarah B

May 25th, 2009
10:22 am

Jason, you drinkin already? I know you said nearly computer illiterate but you don’t usually make that many typos man.

jason

May 25th, 2009
10:38 am

I can’t type. I have just been lucky so far…

Stirg d'Nahsif

May 25th, 2009
10:58 am

To all my fellow veteran brothers, I wish us all a good Memorial! Huah!

Is there anyone out there that served in in Germany; or Operation Just Cause, Desert Storm or Desert Shield?

I salute you all, with my right hand (raising my Scripe with my left hand). Hoo-sha! Hoo-sha! Hoo-sha!

jason

May 25th, 2009
11:16 am

I have never deployed, but I have a friend who has numerus times. Trav is in the Army, and has spent more time away than with his family. It goes past Memorial Day with him. He may have not paid the Ultimate Sacrifice, but he has sacrificed. He sacrificed his family to keep all others safe.
I have done alot in my military career, but mostly in support of guys and gals like SSgt 1st Class Travis Williams. That right there is my ultimate hero. To do all he has to do, and to go through that he has gone. To remain sound in mind, and sound in his beliefs; That I applaud all of my fellow service members, and wish them all a safe journey home and a Happy Memorial Day.

Nookah

May 25th, 2009
11:55 am

I want to wish all a very happy Memorial Day, although I know for some it is bitter sweet. Bitter because your loved one has made the ultimate sacrifice, and sweet because you know and are proud that he/she died a noble death for the benefit of all of us regardless of where we are in the world (as I speak I am sending up a prayer for Seminole Jnr. and others). Nuff respect to all who have served in whatever capacity.

As you guys know, I am up North and today is not a holiday here, but I’m still checking in from time to time to see “what’s going on” (as my man Marvin Gaye would say – perhaps ironical that I should mention a song like that on a day like this).

I see a few of us have been keeping the Cage warm…Sarah B whatup? JTuggle was one of my favourite players also. He is the epitomy of overachievement and showing what one can do through hard work, committment and heart. Jessie you the man!!!! Sarah B you the girl!!!!

To all my pother Posse members have a great day.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

Mother, mother, There’s too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother, There’s far too many of you dying
You know we’ve got to find a way, To bring some lovin’ here today
Father, father, We don’t need to escalate
War is not the answer, For only love can conquer hate
You know you’ve got to find a way, To bring some understanding yeah today
Aw, picket lines, picket signs, Don’t punish me with brutality
Talk to me so you can see, Oh what’s going on, Tell me what’s going on
Mother, mother, Ev’ry body thinks we’re wrong
Baby who are they to judge us, ‘Cause our hair is long
You know we’ve got to find a way, To bring some understanding here today
…………..Marvin Gaye…………… THE PROCESS CONTINUES!!!

JJ

May 25th, 2009
12:30 pm

Nookah Amen!

Sarah B. / jason: I’m a little slow this am, my apologies…should have known the 8 was HOME wins! How do you type homers slang: DOIUGHT?

I raise mt coors’light to all my falcon fanaticals and all those that sacrifice soo much for my sorry ass! Salute!

JJ

May 25th, 2009
1:00 pm

Unca’ Bob: thanks, but I’m like you with that article (4/3vs3/4) what if’s…I really want to know more Ken S. about our defensive strategy (cover 2) last yr. vs. this yr. The easiest thing to do is go out and find great articles but understanding the indepth theories is not my forte. I like your life assessment…we all have different knowledge on different things due to our own paths in this crazy, beautifull thing we call life. It’s funny how you think your so smart/cocky at 18 only to realize every yr. after how much you dont know!!! humbling huh? lol

Unca' Bob

May 25th, 2009
8:36 pm

If I were to stand in the middle of an AJC blog and scream as loud as I could and no one was there to hear, have I made any noise??

Unca' Bob

May 25th, 2009
9:56 pm

News Flash!! D3 just called me from his cell phone. Said he was at a firesale. He was kinda’ breakin’ up, but he said something about a new keyboard that would allow him to enter eight letter, capitalized anagrams. Damn! Where’d my cat go?

Unca' Bob

May 25th, 2009
10:54 pm

Cry Havoc, and let slip the dogs of war! Quote, The Bard!

JJ

May 26th, 2009
7:08 am

“hello…is there anybody out there” pinkfloyd

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
7:33 am

Mr Floyd,

We are on the dark side of the moon!

JJ

May 26th, 2009
8:06 am

…fly me to the moon….

JJ

May 26th, 2009
8:09 am

Unca’Bob Did you hear a tree fall?

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
8:27 am

JJ,

No,sir. I thought that was you. Good morning, what’s up? Any more good postings? pretty slim pickin’s.

JJ

May 26th, 2009
8:45 am

Unca’ Bob Have you checked out Peter Kings blog this week?
Every week he has 2 columns (mmq, tues. mailbag) on si.com.
Nothing new on espn or nfl.com.
We are at the bottom of the bell curve, only one way out!

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
9:11 am

After the disastrous 2007 season, the Atlanta Falcons cleaned house and started over with a new general manager and head coach. The additions were quick payoffs, as the Falcons climbed from 4-12 in 2007 to an 11-5 record in 2008 with a playoff berth.

Arthur Blank, Owner and CEO, holds a high standard for his franchise, and showed it when he rebuilt after the fallout left from Mike Vick and Bobby Petrino. Blank has grown to realize the importance of quality as a key element in his responsibilities to the coaches, players, and fans. He has shown this commitment by building the team around the right personnel, starting from the top.

One of the biggest acquisitions for the Falcons since 2007 was the hiring of general manager Thomas Dimitroff from New England. In his time with the Patriots, Dimitroff was influenced by Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli and their reputation for putting together all the right pieces for a successful franchise.

One element that Dimitroff brings to the Falcons is the ability to recognize the needs of a team and find players that not only fit that void but also are compatible to the coaching system. This offseason Dimitroff made two major acquisitions outside of the draft: linebacker Mike Peterson and tight end Tony Gonzalez. Both men are great fits at their respective positions, and are ready to step into the Falcons system and contribute.

This year, Dimitroff made an effort to build through the draft, using the first five selections on defense players. He saw the needs for the Falcons as the team lacked the ability to shut down opponents, ranking 24th in yards allowed per game. Key additions on the D-line and secondary will solidify the Falcons as they aim to be a stronger team on both sides of the ball.

Mike Smith enters 2009 as his second season as a head coach in the NFL. He has an impressive résumé as he has been a part of some of the best defensive teams in the league. In 2000, he was a part of the coaching staff in Baltimore when the Ravens won the Super Bowl. He then worked under Jack Del Rio in Jacksonville as the defensive coordinator, leading the team to the second best defense in 2006.

Smith held true to his reputation of a strong work ethic earning the 2008 NFL Coach of the Year Award. His strong character and hard work ethic define his ability to build the Falcons into a dominant team.

A vital part of the Falcons defense is coordinator Brian VanGorder. He has experience in winning programs with time in Jacksonville and also college experience with the Georgia Southern Eagles and University of Georgia Bulldogs. While at UGA, VanGorder received the NCAA Assistant Coach of the Year Award as the Bulldogs ranked third in defense in the nation.

Mike Mularkey calls the plays on offense for the Falcons and brings experience and leadership to the team. After a successful career playing tight end for the Minnesota Vikings, Mularkey coached for several years at Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh. After a brief head coaching job with the Bills, he worked with the Miami Dolphins until being promoted to offensive coordinator of the Falcons in 2008.

In his first year with the team, Mularkey turned heads by bringing the fourth worst franchise on offense to a top ten team in 2008. The upcoming season will be exciting to watch as the team is loaded on offensive and comes back with more experience and chemistry.

Although there have been many changes to the Falcons organization in the last two years, the new-look coaching staff is a talented and hard working group of leaders. Arthur Blank and Thomas Dimitroff have made the right moves to bring in individuals who are committed to making the Falcons a premier team in the NFL.

The 2009 season will be a test for them as they look to build off their early success. Expect the Falcons to be a focused team on and off the field as Mike Smith guides the team to what will hopefully be a special season for the team.

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
9:15 am

When looking at running back Jerious Norwood (5’11″, 202lbs) one quickly ascertains that he is gifted with blazing speed.

Drafted out of Mississippi State University in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Norwood has quietly entrenched himself as the second back in an explosive Atlanta Falcons offense.

If not for the impressive play of starter Michael Turner (376 carries for 1,699 yds), there could be a case made that Norwood could easily be the starter. Entering his fourth season, Norwood has 1735 career rushing yards and seven touchdowns.

If I were able to sit down with the Jackson, Miss. native, among many questions I’d ask is how he is handling his role and what he thinks of the Falcon’s chances in 2009.

The Falcons have a tough schedule in 2009. Providing the team stays healthy, do you think you guys win the NFC South?

The current coaching staff often speaks highly of your abilities. How would you like to be utilized this year?

How long before you get the urge to become a No. 1 back in the NFL?

What separates Matt Ryan from …

After this season, you will be a free agent. Are you willing to sign another long term deal to back up Michael Turner or will you test the market in hopes of being a feature back with another team?

You’ve had a few small injuries to date. How are the ribs this year?

We all know how important it is for key players to survive training camp—how nervous did it make you guys when first-round draft pick Peria Jerry went down with a knee injury?

What does pro bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez bring to the Falcon’s offense?

Are you involved with any community activities or foundations?

You come from a great linage of Mississippi greats that includes Jerry Rice, Walter Payton, Wilbert Montgomery, Archie Manning, Hugh Green, and L.C. Greenwood. Who inspired you as a high schooler?

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
9:22 am

JJ,

I have read his column before but not on a regular basis. Pat ??? with espn is supposed to post his predictions for the NFC South some time today. A reporter with CBS had Atlanta winning the NFC South this year & ain’ts second Carolina 3 and Bucs 4

JJ

May 26th, 2009
9:48 am

Unca’ Bob
Excellent research and questions about Norwood!

I’m looking forward to the battle for #3 rb. It looks like a toss up right now, but thats why we have pre-season.

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
9:54 am

JJ,

I just got back from reading Peter King’s post. He does’t back down, does he? I’ve got to cut out for a while, Mamma’s car needs an oil change. I did not see an artical I tried to post on Coach Smith & Co. Maybe by the time I get back it will have appeared.

Sarah B

May 26th, 2009
10:13 am

You 2 are not completely alone I’m here now, just been cleaning off the ole’ desk. I read King every Monday & Tuesday too.

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
11:42 am

May 26, 2009 11:15 AM

Posted by ESPN.com’s Pat Yasinskas

Our offseason power rankings just came out and the NFC South has two teams in the top 11.

Our panel of experts rated the Panthers No. 10 and the Falcons No. 11. My ballot had both Carolina and Atlanta in the top 10. I also voted the Saints No. 15 and the Buccaneers No. 23. In the final totals, the Saints are ranked No. 16 and the Bucs No. 27.

The logic behind my rankings? Carolina was 12-4 last season and returns 21 starters. Atlanta’s right there with the Panthers, but I want to see how this young defense shapes up before getting too carried away with the Falcons.

I thought about putting the Saints in the top 10 and I think they could end up there. But that would be pure projection. I like all the moves they’ve made to their defense in the offseason, but I want to see how they play out.

I went a little higher on the Bucs than most of the panel members. But they’ve got some huge question marks, starting at quarterback.

One other note: On my ballot, I ranked Dallas No. 3 and included a note to my editors that it wasn’t a misprint. Do I really think the Cowboys are the third best team in the NFL? Heck no. But these rankings are just for fun and I thought I’d do my part to raise the bar for Dallas since expectations seem to have slipped so much.

Expectations were extremely high for the Cowboys before last season and a lot of people were talking about them going to the Super Bowl, but I predicted they’d underachieve, finish third in the NFC East and miss the playoffs. Um, they did.

This year, expectations aren’t nearly as high and maybe the Cowboys will overachieve. Or maybe not.

WR

May 26th, 2009
12:05 pm

Jason,Unca’Bob,JJ, noticed you guys were the majority of the bird cage this holiday weekend, I have to do some reading to catch up but just wanted you to know I’m back in the cage from my trip to Litchfield.

JJ

May 26th, 2009
12:23 pm

WR welcome back, it’s been a little quiet.

Unca’ Bob I really cant fault Pat putting the kittens ahead of us since they did finish 12-4. BUT, I think we all know that won’t last.
The kittens still have choke-delhomme and were very lucky to win 12 last yr. Plus, they have some locker room problems this yr. I beleive Fox will be out this yr. if they dont make the playoffs. Whats his face (ex-pitts coach) lives in the area and wants to keep his family in carolina.

I really hope Golic picks against us every week. He was our good luck charm last yr!

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
12:53 pm

WR,

Welcome home. I trust you had a great time.

JJ,

We return our starting OFF and with the addition of TG, we can raise the bar a little higher. With the D-line, LB, and DB up grades, this very well could be our year in our division. I agree about Peppers not being an asset at this time.

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
1:19 pm

Bill Cowher?

WR

May 26th, 2009
2:07 pm

Unca’Bob,JJ, thanks and yes I did have a good time although it was a bit of a different type of beach setting. Litchfield is beautiful more of a golfing resort type getaway. So things were quiet not much man site seeing going on if you know what I mean. But if you need a quiet relaxing, getaway from the daily grind of life, this is definitely the place, who knows I might even take up golf now.

Seems like everyone went on a bit of a vacation, at least from the birdcage. I see you guys are debating the Cats of Carolina and if its not over beating a dead horse, I too agree that as long as Jake the fake is playing QB I have no fear of the Panthers against our beloved birds. Now defensively the Panthers can keep the team in games for a while and every now and then even the worst of QB’s can go on a hot streak so in that way of thinking I can see why some analyst would pick them over the birds. The Falcons youth on defense scares alot of the so-called experts because their reputation is based on the success of their opinion,if the speed,coaching,and intangibles can overcome the youth whether quickly I believe you will see alot of the analyst jumping on board with the Falcons.

WR

May 26th, 2009
2:08 pm

blog monster isn’t on vacation though

Sarah B

May 26th, 2009
2:35 pm

What division were we supposed to be picking this week – AFC East?

Sarah B

May 26th, 2009
2:36 pm

blog monsters do not get vacation…

Unca' Bob

May 26th, 2009
3:12 pm

As hard working as this blog monster is, it could sure take one.

WR

May 26th, 2009
3:19 pm

I second that motion Unca’Bob, the funny thing is that it actually released my post pertaining to the blog monster but my Carolina post is apparently off in limbo.

JJ

May 26th, 2009
4:28 pm

Unca’ Bob…yes, Bill Cowher, brain freeze!

How about naming our little monster?

my choice…DLR = D Leds Revenge!

It seams to feast on long, time consuming blogs!!!

D3

May 26th, 2009
4:53 pm

Great Holiday Weekend Hangover Day Bird-Cagers! Having to take a little time away from the computer for a little while to recharge. Have no fear, for I will return refreshed and revved up to tackle our weekly opponent analysis: the hated New England Patriots and Roster Spot Breakdowns. Will return soon will a complete menu ready for great and intelligent discussion and debate from our ‘Cage Family!

JJ

May 26th, 2009
5:00 pm

Dr…..he’s ALIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Welcome back D3, thought the monster got you!

Jason, Unca’ Bob and Sarah B. have kept our baby breathing, kudos!

Jimbo

May 26th, 2009
5:05 pm

Here’s my belated Bengals picks:
The Cincinnati Bengals:

1 Sep 13 DEN @ CIN -L
2 Sep 20 CIN @ GB -L
3 Sep 27 PIT @ CIN -L
4 Oct 04 CIN @ CLE -W
5 Oct 11 CIN @ BAL -L
6 Oct 18 HOU @ CIN -W
7 Oct 25 CHI @ CIN -W
8 Bye
9 Nov 08 BAL @ CIN -L
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT -L
11 Nov 22 CIN @ OAK -L
12 Nov 29 CLE @ CIN -L
13 Dec 06 DET @ CIN -W
14 Dec 13 CIN @ MIN -L
15 Dec 20 CIN @ SD -L
16 Dec 27 KC @ CIN -W
17 Jan 03 CIN @ NYJ -W

6-10

Jimbo

May 26th, 2009
5:13 pm

The Cleveland Browns

1 Sep 13 MIN @ CLE – L
2 Sep 20 CLE @ DEN – W
3 Sep 27 CLE @ BAL – L
4 Oct 04 CIN @ CLE – L
5 Oct 11 CLE @ BUF – L
6 Oct 18 CLE @ PIT – L
7 Oct 25 GB @ CLE – W
8 Nov 01 CLE @ CHI – W
9 Bye
10 Nov 16 BAL @ CLE – L
11 Nov 22 CLE @ DET – W
12 Nov 29 CLE @ CIN – W
13 Dec 06 SD @ CLE – L
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE – L
15 Dec 20 CLE @ KC – W
16 Dec 27 OAK @ CLE – W
17 Jan 03 JAC @ CLE – W

8-8

Jimbo

May 26th, 2009
5:18 pm

The Baltimore Ravens

1 Sep 13 KC @ BAL – W
2 Sep 20 BAL @ SD – W
3 Sep 27 CLE @ BAL – W
4 Oct 04 BAL @ NE -L
5 Oct 11 CIN @ BAL – W
6 Oct 18 BAL @ MIN – L
7 Bye
8 Nov 01 DEN @ BAL – W
9 Nov 08 BAL @ CIN – W
10 Nov 16 BAL @ CLE – W
11 Nov 22 IND @ BAL – L
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL – L
13 Dec 07 BAL @ GB – W
14 Dec 13 DET @ BAL – W
15 Dec 20 CHI @ BAL – W
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT – L
17 Jan 03 BAL @ OAK – W

11-5

Jimbo

May 26th, 2009
5:30 pm

The Steelers benefit from being in a weak division and despite having won the Superbowl has one of the easier schedules in the league.

The Pittsburgh Steelers

1 Sep 10 TEN @ PIT – W
2 Sep 20 PIT @ CHI – W
3 Sep 27 PIT @ CIN – W
4 Oct 04 SD @ PIT – W
5 Oct 11 PIT @ DET – W
6 Oct 18 CLE @ PIT – W
7 Oct 25 MIN @ PIT – L
8 Bye
9 Nov 09 PIT @ DEN – W
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT – W
11 Nov 22 PIT @ KC – L
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL – W
13 Dec 06 OAK @ PIT – W
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE – W
15 Dec 20 GB @ PIT – L
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT – W
17 Jan 03 PIT @ MIA – L

12-4

jason

May 26th, 2009
5:34 pm

Afternoon Guys, and Gal. Been at work today, sorry, got to pay the bills. Are we doing AFC East today? What’s on tap. The weekend was a little, i don’t know what to call it. It all started with DOL’s new blog. Someone lay down this weeks schedule of events.

Unca’ Bob, I agree on offense We should expect more consistencey sustained by the offense. More 10+ play drives, and more points. Better execution all the way around.

I am curious to see how the defense plays out. Call thiscurtailing expectations. While ATL does have alot of talent coming in. Better oveerall talented defense. We will stiil awfully young. Youth tends to making mistakes by being overly eager to make plays. I hope the veterans we have keeps the youngsters grounded. On the bright side, we do have veterans placed at all 3 levels of the defense in Abe, Peterson, and Coleman.