It’s OTA time for the Falcons
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).
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?
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
509 comments Add your comment
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
7:24 am
College career
[edit] Freshman
In 2005 as a freshman, Wilson saw action in four games, completing a pass in each appearance. He threw his first career touchdown pass on a 36–yard strike to Keith Brown in Alabama’s 37–14 win at South Carolina.[1]
He completed 63.6% of his passes, throwing for 98 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.
[edit] Sophomore
In 2006, Wilson started all 12 games for the Crimson Tide. He finished the season with a passing efficiency of 128.92, completing 216–of–379 passes for 2,707 yards, 17 touchdowns and ten interceptions. He threw for over 200 yards in the first seven games of the season, setting a new school record, and finished with a school record nine 200-yard games.[1]
His best game was at Arkansas (completing 80.0% of his passes for 243 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions)
He had strong performances at LSU (completing 62.9% of his passes, throwing for 291 yards, two touchdowns, and 1 interception), and against Ole Miss (completing 57.1% of his passes, throwing for 206 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions)
He had a solid performance, although a loss, against rival Auburn (completing 54.5% of his passes for 252 yards, two touchdowns, and 1 interception).
His worst games were against Mississippi State (completing only 48.7% of his passes and throwing two interceptions), at Florida (completing 52.5% of his passes, but throwing three interceptions), and at Tennessee (completing only 44.8% of his passes).
[edit] Junior
In 2007, Wilson started 13 games for Alabama. His passer rating was 198.6, completing 255–of–462 passes for 2,846 yards, 18 touchdowns (a school record) and 10 interceptions. He was sacked 25 times during the season. His best performance was against rival Tennessee, in which he completed 32 of 46 passing attempts for 367 yards and three touchdowns, although another notable performance was his winning touchdown against Arkansas with eight seconds left in the game.[2]
[edit] Senior
In his senior season, Wilson was again the starting quarterback—ahead of Greg McElroy. Wilson has led the Crimson Tide to a 12–2 record which has included victories against #9-ranked Clemson Tigers, #3–ranked Georgia Bulldogs, and #15-ranked LSU Tigers. In the regular season finale, he led Alabama to 36–0 victory over in-state rival Auburn—ending a six-game losing streak to the Tigers. After finishing the regular season 12–0, #1 Alabama eventually lost to #2 Florida in the SEC Championship Game. In the 2009 Sugar Bowl, the Crimson Tide was defeated by the Utah Utes 31–17, as the Utes jumped out to a 21–0 first quarter lead.
He holds every significant passing record in Alabama school history.[3]
[edit] Pro Career
Pre-draft measureables
Ht 6 Wt 40-yard dash 20 ss 3-cone Vert Broad
6-2 * 219 lb * 4.87 * 4.59 * 7.53 * 29.5 in. * 105.0″ *
(* represents NFL Combine[4] [5])
His senior year was played with L Saban as head coach. The last two games were played without an O-Lineman I’ll just call “The Combine Kid”. He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed, but he tore up SEC D-lines.
falcon21
May 21st, 2009
8:35 am
Thanks WR I get what your saying. D3, I will call it T-Town, its about 5 miles south of K-Town under the big smoke stacks.
Sarah B
May 21st, 2009
10:19 am
D3 I’m going into year 6 of my seats. I used to have season tix back in AFC for years then they built the Dome and I kept them for the first year but the lighting and sound back then were horrid. I used to go home with a headache, plus the Falcons (pardon me for this) sucked. I still watched on TV and listened to home games on the radio while doing yardwork. The Ex used to say – why do you torture yourself? And I would reply – because I have to. See and now it’s all paying off. I’ve never been a bandwagoneer. Either you’re in or out. Good or Bad. And now I can honestly say I never bailed. I even sat through all 8 2007 games. I had to laugh at the Vick blogs yesterday when people were saying he owed them an apology. I thought to myself ‘All he owes me is $450 for those 8 games’ But it all worked itself out and we are much better off now. Don’t wish him any ill will. Do the crime do the time and move on I say. We have a new future and it is bright. Now off to get the Steelers schedule…
jason
May 21st, 2009
11:18 am
JJ, the Carolina game will always worry a Falcon fan, as long as Steve Smith is still playing for them. He just has ATL’s number. What’s that saying…Yeah, he’s unstoppable; all you can do is hope to cintain him.
That’s all ATL has to do. Just contain him. Smith can go deep, but his strength is YAC. Got to limit the YAC with some solid open field tackling. Safety support will be most important In this game. I feel our DL will keep Delhomme rattled the whole game. The same thing can be said for thei 2-headed Rushing attack. You have eliminate the long runs. Deangelo Willams will hurt you.. Stewart delivers the body blows inside, then Williams will knock you out in one play if you let him. The run game for Carolina scares me more than Smith and the passing game. But the 11th Commandment “Thou shalt not run” will be in effect.
I just realized this game will be played in Carolina. I am out of it. I will have to adjust my original score. I think ATL still wins, but I have to go along with Stirg saying it will come down to the closing seconds. Elam with the long game winning FG, rather than Kasay.
Unca’ Bob, Good breakdown on JPW. Decent QB who can manage the game with a strong run game. That’s what ATL has. This is going to be a tough decision. If SHockley takes #2, JPW will make the roster. That’s the only way I see it. I don’t think JPW can beat out Dj for the #3. DJ would flat out have to bust for that to happen. There’s a better chance of DJ taking the #2.
P.S. I must be the biggest dork because I loved the latest trek movie (ahurra-wow, babe in space) and I tried world of warcraft – that ozzy commercial got me!
JJ, are you a Tech fan? Just kidding… Hwy WR, just kidding LOL!!! I think I may be in trouble now.
JJ, the defense did play over their skill set last year. Alot had to do with the conservative defense Smitty was deploying. He and VG did alot of disguising. Once in the playoffs the defense was exposed, hence all of the changes.
So, we have the Steelers and the #1 RB on tap. Anything else?
D3
May 21st, 2009
11:26 am
Great Thursday A.M. Fellow ‘Cagers’! Thursday, one of my favorite days of the week. A good thursday can start off the weekend with a huge bang. College days in Athens used to be wilder than Fridays. After I got into the professional world, though, I’ve had to change it to more of a slow warm-up with a few brews, some Madden, and a little food. Anyway on to Falcons and Football……..
DOL – thanks for the updates on the no-shows. Nice to hear that Smitty had talked to each, but only missing 3 guys is pretty good and shows the level of committment we may can expect this year. Can you look into that graduation rule that prevents Chris Owens from attending? That one doesn’t make too much sense on the surface.
jason – agreed on Shockley. He had his best chance in 2007 and was looking good in the pre-season when he tore his ACL in that crappy Meadowland turf. That would have been the year to have a chance to get some consistency and possibly even earn some starts(probably not since Dic-trino was HC).
JJ – what’s up brother? Yeah, lovin’ this weather right now. Growing up in Georgia my whole life I too cherish these cool days in May, because I know what’s coming down the pipe in July and August. Hadn’t seen the new Star Trek, but never got into the old ones. I agree that the Carolina game will be a tough, hard fought battle like it almost always is.
Pittsburgh analysis, Atlanta-Carolina breakdown, and RB#1 Roster Spot analysis coming up today.
Division Prediction update
Missing the following:
Ed – Bengals, Browns, Ravens
JJ – Ravens
Dean21 – Browns, Ravens
Jimbo – Bengals, Browns, Ravens
Sarah B
May 21st, 2009
11:45 am
Jason “I just realized this game will be played in Carolina. I am out of it.”
You are out of it – this game will be played in the Dome. We don’t go to Charlotte until Nov. 15.
jason
May 21st, 2009
11:49 am
Sarah B, I looked at Carolina’s schedule and misread. Dang, I need to go back to work. In that case I will stand by my original prediction. 27-13 Atlanta.
WR
May 21st, 2009
11:50 am
D3 just read your post from last night, Papasito’s is right off the exit of 75N and Windyhill rd. There’s actually two Papa’s establishments in the same locaton, One is Papasito’s which is a higher end Tex/Mex restaurant and the other is Pappadeaux which is a high-end steak and seafood restaurant.
I was just checking in before the daily chores so I will get back into the football talk later, until then keep the cage rocking.
Sarah B
May 21st, 2009
11:53 am
No prob Jason. Just don’t try taking away anymore home games, we only get 8.
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
12:38 pm
jason,
Drop the Red Stripe and move away from your keyboard!!
D3
May 21st, 2009
12:46 pm
2009 Pittsburgh Steelers
General – what else do you say about the 2008 Super Bowl Champions? They have a franchise, likely future HOF QB, young RB, solid receivers and tight end. Deep OL, young successful head coach, and one of the perennial best defenses in the league. They have one of the best front offices in Football. They are able to mine out talent at an unbelievable rate, year in and year out. Someone please explain to me how they have one of the easiest schedules in the NFL?
Offense – they have one of the deepest, nastiest OL’s in all of football. Add to that a solid draft pick Urbik and they continue to add depth. Future HOF wide receiver Hines Ward on side and Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes on the other side. TE Heath Miller solid, and they have guys waiting in the wings like Limas Sweed and Rashad Mendenhall. Franchise QB Roethlisberger has already won two Super Bowl rings, how many more will he win?
Defense – Reigning Defensive player of the year James Harrison at OLB. One of the best safeties in the game in Polamalu. Great CB tandem in Taylor and McFadden. Add in solid LB’s Woodley and Farrior, tough as nails DE’s Keisel and Smith and you have the makings for contiuing to be the most dominant DEF in football. Drafted Ziggy Hood, which doesn’t seem to fit their 3-4, but you they’ll make it work.
Overall – Continued dominance in the NFL. Should stockpile a huge record and only have a few threats to locking up Home-Field Advantage again. Maybe Pats, Colts, and Chargers challenge, but not likely.
1 Sep 10 TEN @ PIT (win)
2 Sep 20 PIT @ CHI (win)
3 Sep 27 PIT @ CIN (win)
4 Oct 04 SD @ PIT (loss)
5 Oct 11 PIT @ DET (win)
6 Oct 18 CLE @ PIT (win)
7 Oct 25 MIN @ PIT (win)
8 Bye
9 Nov 09 PIT @ DEN (win)
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT (win)
11 Nov 22 PIT @ KC (win)
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL (loss)
13 Dec 06 OAK @ PIT (win)
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE (win)
15 Dec 20 GB @ PIT (win)
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT (win)
17 Jan 03 PIT @ MIA (win)
14 – 2, best record in football and continued dominance.
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
1:10 pm
J Shockley:
Drafted ‘06 7th round. competed with Bryan Randall for#3. Won. Randall had a cup of coffee with Bucs and’Burg and was cut before pre-season. BR is now #3 in the CFL.
2007: Falcons sign a two year six million dollar deal with Joey Herrington in April. Shockley tears his Medial Collateral Ligiment- IR for the year.
2008: New Front Office- In March they released Harrington in a salary-cap move. No competion, DJS is now #3.
JPW most fits TD & Coach Smith & Co’s profile. Three year starter, accurate passer, quick on the uptake. As mentioned by Jason, a perfect fit for Falcon football. Strong on the run, ball control. This is one more in several trains of thought, maybe he was brought into camp not to replace Shockley, but to replace Redman…Just a thought.
jason
May 21st, 2009
1:19 pm
Sarah B, I had the games switched.
Pittsburgh, what to say. They are probably the best run organization in the NFL. An owner hell bent on winning and success. The tradition of the Steelers is the epitomy of Professional football. Where can they go this year? What is left for them to achieve? This is your 2008 SuperBowl Champions. They have perhaps the best defense in the NFL., the most punishing Rushing offense. When you finish playing the Steelers, you feel the after effects the rest of the year. You will be battered, bruised and beat up. You will have to bring your “lunch pail” because this will be an all day job.
The OL is and has always been the Strength and Core of the Steeler offense. C Jeff Hartwig anchors a solid and spetacular unit. Gaurds Kemoeatu and Essez along with Tackles Colon and starks provide a
wall to protect Roethlisberger and create wide open lanes for Parker to run wild. Ben Roethlisberger leads the offense and is a good game manager with the ability to take over games on occasion. The strength of the Steelers is to physically run the ball, control the clock and rely on a very stingy defense. Roethlisberger will do nothing to take away from the “Master Plan”. RB willie Parker is one of the NFLs best when healthy. He has however had a variety of nagging injuries the past
couple of seasons. Mendenhall, and Moore have done an excellent job filling in for Parker and that doesn’t seem to change this year. FB Ryan Powdrell will be leading the way for the RBs taking out the LBs. The susprising thing is that the Steelers have good quality in their WRs. Led by UGA alum Hines Ward, and the up an coming Santonio Holmes,
this group has good qyality depth with Shawn McDonald and Dallas Baker. Add TE Heath MIller to the mix,and the recieving unit can be deadly.
The defensive side of the ball is where the foundation of the Pittsburgh Steeler tradition exists. The deploy the 3-4. The names change but the results remain the same. Anchored by Casey Hamton at the NT, he allows the LBs to roam and make plays by taking on double taems and sometimes triple teams. A very disruptive force in the middle of the
DL. The LBsare the most important group on the defense. As important to the overall success as their rival the Baltimore Ravens’s LBs. Led by Aronld Harrison, who leads the charge along with Keyaron Fox, James Farrior and James harrison this unit plays with a violent mean streak that strikes fear and intimidation in their opponets. The back end of the D, the DBs Fernando Bryant, DeShea Townsend, Ike Taylor, and William Gay provide Quality, depth, expirence, and big play capability.
While the safties led by Troy Polamalu with help from Ryan
Clark keep Wrs from going over the middle with sheer intimidation. Polamalu may be the best safety in all of football.
The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be the most complete team in the NFL. They have no apparent weaknesses, except for maybe aging, but they seem to pushing younger players into starting roles while keeping enough veterans around to play at Champioship level. The only thing that will stop the Steelers from appearing in another SuperBowl is their selves or the luck of the NFL.
2009 Pittsburgh Steelers Schedule
REGULAR SEASON
Thursday, Sept.10 vs. Titans L
Sunday, Sept 20 @ Bears W
Sunday, Sept.27 @ Bengals W
Sunday, Oct. 4 vs. Chargers W
Sunday, Oct. 11 @ Lions W
Sunday, Oct. 18 vs. Browns W
Sunday, Oct. 25 vs. Vikings W
Sunday, Nov. 1 BYE
Monday, Nov. 9 @ Broncos W
Sunday, Nov. 15 vs. Bengals W
Sunday, Nov. 22 @ Chiefs W
Sunday, Nov. 29 @ Ravens W
Sunday, Dec. 6 vs. Raiders W
Thursday, Dec. 10 @ Browns W
Sunday, Dec. 20 vs. Packers W
Sunday, Dec. 27 vs. Ravens L
Sunday, Jan. 3 @ Dolphins L
The Pittsburgh Steelers as good as they are have gotten lucky this year
by playing what seems to be at this moment a pretty soft schedule. this
should allow them to claim the AFC North again. This Division will be hotly contested with the Ravens. The defenses of these two teams are very compatlble with Pitt holding a slight edge because of the Ravens aging. Also, Pitt brings a little more to the table on offense. I predict 13-3,and the AFC North Division tilte. Will predict playoffs when the time comes.
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
1:27 pm
One of the elite teams in football. Drew a very favorable schedule. Games over, Y’all drive home safe.
1 Sep 10 TEN @ PIT (loss)
2 Sep 20 PIT @ CHI (win)
3 Sep 27 PIT @ CIN (win)
4 Oct 04 SD @ PIT (win)they learned from Tenn. game
5 Oct 11 PIT @ DET (win)
6 Oct 18 CLE @ PIT (win)
7 Oct 25 MIN @ PIT (win)
8 Bye
9 Nov 09 PIT @ DEN (win)
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT (win)
11 Nov 22 PIT @ KC (win)
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL (loss)
13 Dec 06 OAK @ PIT (win)
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE (win)
15 Dec 20 GB @ PIT (win)
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT (win)
17 Jan 03 PIT @ MIA (win) At this point they have locked up everything but the pizza delivery business. Miami could very well still be in the hunt.
13-3
jason
May 21st, 2009
1:38 pm
Unca’ Bob, No Stripe. Not until dark, and kids in bed. I just had a total “Brain Fart”. If JPW doesn’t make the roster, Iam thinking that they are going to try an d find a way to keep. They want to develope a young QB to compete with DJ as a back up. I feel like this. If ATL ends up keeping Redman, then Shockley my wind up getting cut. Maybe not this year, could be next. There is no reason why DJ can’t be the #2. # yrs. NFL exp. Son of a coach. The impotance of that is by being a son of a coach he has the ability to read and understand playbooks. The evidence is that after 3 years in the NFL with 3 HCs, 3 OCs, and 3 different sysytems he was able to learn each one, and remain on the roster, even through a year ending injury.
jason
May 21st, 2009
1:43 pm
Oh, Yeah I picked the loss to Miami on the fact that they will be resting regulars for the playoffs.
Unca’ Bob, I see 13-3 for the Steelers, but only see 2 losses. LOL!!! Starting early today(Beer), or covering yousself.
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
2:01 pm
Unca’ Bob,
Drop the Red Stripe…lol
jason,
I meant to put a loss @MIA. I copied and pasted D3’s post and did not change Win/loss. It’s a bit early for Red Stripe for me too. Reckon’ next time I tease someone I better get it right.
jason
May 21st, 2009
2:09 pm
Unca’ Bob, It must be just one of them days. Those of you working are getting closer to a long weekend. I can take the teasing. I was kind of embarrassed Ater that post. I read to post together and really screwed my self up on the Carolina game. To much free time on my hands, I guess.
jason
May 21st, 2009
2:16 pm
The blog is acting screwy again. Posts from page 2 are poppin up in the middle of page 3.
Hope the blog doesn’t shut down again. I have the #1 RB breakdown left on my to do list.
Sarah B
May 21st, 2009
2:25 pm
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 W
8 Bye
9 Nov 09 PIT @ DEN W
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT W
11 Nov 22 PIT @ KC W
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL L
13 Dec 06 OAK @ PIT W
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE W
15 Dec 20 GB @ PIT W
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT W
17 Jan 03 PIT @ MIA W
Since when do the Champs get such an easy schedule???
Sarah B
May 21st, 2009
2:30 pm
Wait there had to be at least one more loss in that list??? Right?
jason
May 21st, 2009
2:48 pm
Michael Career Offensive Stats
RUSHING STATS:
Year Team G Rush Yds Y/G Avg TD
2006 San Diego 13 80 502 38.6 6.3 2
2007 San Diego 16 71 316 19.8 4.5 1
2008 Atlanta 16 376 1699 106.2 4.5 17
Career Totals 75 604 2956 39.4 4.9 20
RECIEVING STATS
Rec Yds Y/G Avg Lng YAC 1stD TD Fum Fum
3 47 3.6 15.7 30 14.3 2 0 0 0
4 16 1.0 4.0 12 6.8 1 0 1 1
6 41 2.6 6.8 18 6.0 2 0 3 2
13 104 1.4 8.0 30 9.0 5 0 4 3
Michael Turner, the starting RB for the ATlanta
Falcons established himself as one of the premire
RBs in the NFL. Apowerful RB with good vision and
underrated speed; he set career highs in every
statistical rushing category. ATlanta has not seen
a complete ballcarrier since Jamaal Anderson during
the SuperBowl run in the “Dirty Bird” days. His low
center of gravity makes a small target for defenders
especially in closed in and congested areas between
the tackles.
Turner the “Burner came from the small school,
Northern Illinois. Drafted to back up LT in San Deigo.
He did impress, once gained FA status, he wanted to
start and excell at hi position. He did just that for
the Falcons. He helped the Falcons to a Playoff birth
by stabilizing the offense and making a comfortable
situation for the rookie Matt Ryan.
Turner doesn’t seem to have many weaknesses. The 2
that come to my mind are: #1) he needs to hit the hole
faster. See the crease and shoot through it. To many
times he got stuck in the backfield before he could
get started. Quicker at the point of attack. #2) I
would like to see more of a recieving threat out of
the backfield from him. He maybe just hasn’t had the
oppurtunities. I think by getting him outside with his
size and speed would be murder on safeties.
I would like to see a lighter workload this season.
Just from a durability stand point. With the talent of
Jerrius Norwood as his back up, and the signing of Tony
Gonzalez at TE; I don’t see why the work load can’t be
lessen a little bit. Other than that, full speed ahead
to a continued success in hekping ATL to another play
off season.
jason
May 21st, 2009
2:51 pm
Sarah B, Did you forget the loss to Miami. You know where they will be resting their starters for a SuperBowl run? I was having trouble finding more than one loss for them also. I have them losing to the Titans, Ravens and the Dolphins. Looks like the CAGE is all together, and in sync with this team also.
row3
May 21st, 2009
3:27 pm
I view QB2 and QB3 one in the same, as it pertains to our Falcons. I’m in favor of DJ at #2 to be active and available for certain offensive plays(wildcat). Redman drops to #3(if its not to big of blow to his ego). The time is now, we are not re-buiding, we need Redman as our everydown back-up QB, but we need to utilize DJ’s ability to add that extra offensive weapon. The TEAM concept of these guys could make this work, 3+ million sounds like to much to pay for a #3 QB, but if you can remove the depth chart status out of their heads, and just be a team of Quarterback and back-ups it would be great.
I agree with whoever suggested, John Parker David Booty Wilson, was brought in to be a training camp arm, However if he has a good camp and we can spare the space on the pratice squad, I could see him being a developmental player that could come into play next year, then maybe the need for Redman won’t be as great.
Sarah B
May 21st, 2009
3:29 pm
Thanks Jason I knew there had to be one more loss. D3 – mark it down they lose the last game to Miami who may be playing for a Wild Card at that point.
jason
May 21st, 2009
3:44 pm
I figured the Dolphins will take that game because the Steelers will not even take the field. This has to be the weakest schedule I have ever seen a defending S.B. Champ get to play.
I want to take a sec. and clear up an earlier post.
If JPW doesn’t make the roster, I am thinking that they are going to try and find a way to keep him. They want to develope a young QB to compete with DJ as a back up. I feel like this. If ATL ends up keeping Redman long term, then Shockley my wind up getting cut. Maybe not this year, could be next.
There is no reason why DJ can’t be the #2 QB. 3 yrs. NFL exp. Son of a coach. The importance of that is by being a son of a coach he has the ability to read and understand playbooks. The evidence is there, that after 3 years in the NFL with 3 HCs, 3 OCs, and 3 different systems he was able to learn each one, and remain on the roster, even through a year missed by injury.
I am not retracting from DJ as the #2 QB. I am saying if Redman is kept long term, DJ will have to be moved. At this point in his career, his developement will be severely handicapped by remaining # 3 on the depth chart. His career will grow stagnat. He will be nothing but a piece to practice defending the “wildcat” formation. And that will be just sad when you take in consideration of the type of person DJ is. A very intelligent and hard working QB. He has missed some serious reps while 3 years in the NFL; not to mention 5 years spent in collage and only starting one year. I don’t believe in the notion that the Cassell example falls on every QB. I think that was catching Lightening in a bottle. Besides, he was the #2 QB a while in N.E. He did practice with the first team. DJ needs to get reps with the first unit to truly show what he brings to the table. The biggest thing for DJ is to stay healthy and compete for the #2 QB. He has to show he can stay healthy.
D3
May 21st, 2009
4:10 pm
Good Late Afternoon ‘Cagers! Gotta love the participation rolling here in the Bird-Cage during what would normally be considered downtime. But we’re averaging almost 100 posts a day which is pretty awesome I’d have to say. Some great analysis being put forth on the Carolina game. Mine coming in a bit. Throwin’ a little recipe action to mix it up as well. To Falcons/Football/Brew Talk and anything else that gets us jacked. Gonna play a little Madden tonight I believe and have a few brews. Fairly low key tonight, but got some brand new recipes I can’t wait to try on the grill. Enough about me. To the ‘Cage Robin!………
Grandma’s Famous BBQ Chicken Marinade (Trisha Lynn Carter)
Ingredients
1/4 pound margarine
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 onion chopped
1 teaspoon of dry ranch packet
1 teaspoon steak seasoning
1/2 cup honey
3/4 cup cola (recommended: Coca Cola)
1 bottle Worcestershire sauce
1 bottle ketchup
2 lemons, halved
1 bottle hot sauce
4 chicken breasts, boneless or bone-in
Directions
In a saucepan, melt the margarine. Add the garlic clove, mustard, onion, ranch rub, steak dust, honey and cola and bring to a simmer. Then add the Worcestershire, ketchup, lemons(watch for seeds), and the hot sauce. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes and let it simmer down. Dip chicken in sauce and put on grill. Keep applying sauce onto chicken until cooked.
Atlanta-Carolina Next……….
SPS
May 21st, 2009
4:15 pm
I wouldn’t be surprised if Redmon sticks this year – the Falcons have a lot of cap space. He might also be willing to renogotiate down to a lower salary if the contract length is extended a year or two.
D3: Agree that Fat Tire is fine stuff. It has a lot of crystal malt which gives it that rich caramel taste and full body. Very similar to the old ATL local, but now defunct Dogwood Pale Ale. But my favorite remains hometown Sweetwater 420. Sharply hopped, crisp, with a fruity bouquet.
JJ
May 21st, 2009
4:29 pm
mmmmmmm…….foooooood……thanks D3, you know I love it!!!
Cooking lil’dave tenderloins tonight, will report back.
jason: no I didn’t go to tech, and yes I get the little slam about tech geeks..all in fun bro…i’m a concrete campus man (gsu, root for gt and uga, until the last game of the yr-go dawgs) who loves any summer sci-fi on the big screen! No, I didnt play dungens and dragons, well once…lol Rib-eye recipe? your holdn out on us!
JJ
May 21st, 2009
4:35 pm
D3 pete’s or louisianne hot suace…small, med, large bottle. Have seen several bbq reipes using cola–i’ve got to try it, we do live cokes hometown. …36hrs of marinating lil daves…cant over marinade I guess!
jason
May 21st, 2009
4:41 pm
JJ, I am the same. When Joe Burns was at Tech… Man I want ed FSU to get their cans kicked. Sorry, Seminole Warrior. I was proud when they won their MNC. I think I will be pulling for GSU when they start up this year. I already pull for Gsouth.
Question for GSU Eagles out there. Who was HC agter Johnson left. I want to sat the OL coach took over. I believe he was HC at Thomasville High back in the day.
JJ, I get that Rib Eye reipe. Shoot, Now I want Rib EYEs tonight. We are having Cornish Hens. The wife cooks with alot of natural frit. Delicious. You all gotta try it.
D3
May 21st, 2009
4:56 pm
2009 Atlanta Falcons Schedule Analysis
This Week: Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers (Game 2)
Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers; September 20th @ The Georgia Dome
Match-ups
Carolina Offense vs. Atlanta Defense
LT-Jordan Gross vs. LDE Jamaal Anderson
LG-Travelle Wharton vs. RDT-Peria Jerry
C-Ryan Kalil/FB-Brad Hoover vs. MLB-Curtis Lofton
RG-Keydrick Vincent vs. LDT-Jonathan Babineaux
RT-Jeff Otah vs RDE-John Abraham
TE-Dante Rosaria vs. SLB-Mike Peterson
WLB-Stephen Nicholas/SS-Thomas DeCoud vs.
RB-Deangelo Williams/Jonathan Stewart
CB-Chris Houston vs. WR-Steve Smith
CB-Chevis Jackson vs. WR-Muhsin Muhammed
FS-Erik Coleman vs QB-Jake Delhomme
General – John Fox redeemed himself very nicely last year going 12-4 in the regular season and securing the second seed in the NFC. Any normal game, even a loss, wouldn’t take out the accomplishment of a very good year. But that complete meltdown that occurred at home was unbelievable. Its one thing to lose, its quite another to get get humiliated. His seat got much cooler, but has not been switched off.
Carolina Offense vs Atlanta Defense
Running Game
Carolina looks to be a pretty big powerhouse in its own right with Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart forming one of the best RB tandems in the NFL. They continue to be a run-first, play-action football team. They have one of the best pairs of Tackles in Jordan Gross and Jeff Otah. J.Anderson continues to draw a tough assignment, following Jake Long up with Jordan Gross. The new look DT rotation will be more evident in this game than Miami. Jerry, Babs, Lewis, and Walker will create havoc for Delhomme, assuming we can stop the running game. As in Miami game, our success on DEF all depends on us stopping Williams/Stewart, much like Brown/Williams. If our “Thou Shalt Not Run” is on full effect, than we will have a dominant day, if not we’re in for a long afteroon. Key matchup will be Mike Peterson/Stephen Nicholas/Thomas DeCoud(or Moore) on Williams/Stewart/FB Hoover. I like to criticize Milloy, but he was a stud in the run game and DeCoud or Moore must be able to assist in the run game with Carolina’s desire to run the ball. I see the new look DT rotation tearing up the relatively weak inside of Carolina’s OL. Look for Moore to take over at SS in this one with his big-hitting capability(if he hasn’t won the job already).
Passing Game
This is where Chris Houston will tell us which way he goes: continue his progression as a #1 corner or stay on average with lack of physicality and inability to match up on #1 WR’s. Steve Smith is an All-Pro and will abuse many O’ CB’s, but gets easily frustrated and can certainly be minimized. I look for Chevis Jackson to show he’s arrived taking care of old man Muhammed. Decoud(or Moore) and Peterson/Nicholas will have no trouble with TE Rosario because that dude doesn’t strike fear in anyone. So it all goes back to Erik Coleman vs Jake Delhomme. Coleman had a d@— good year in his first role with Atlanta, covering Milloy’s @ss many times. Since he won’t have that problem, look for his int total to significantly go up, starting with “Shaky Jake” (love that name Sarah B). Jake’s either really on or really off. Look for him to be really off with our new look D flying all over the field. They’ll manage, but no torch.
Atlanta OFF v Carolina DEF & Final Analysis to come in a few………..
JohnWaynesworld
May 21st, 2009
5:07 pm
Sounds tasty D3. I just got back from Williams Brothers. Had some gigantic beef ribs.
Now to the Steelers:
1 Sep 10 TEN @ PIT (win)
2 Sep 20 PIT @ CHI (loss)
3 Sep 27 PIT @ CIN (win)
4 Oct 04 SD @ PIT (loss)
5 Oct 11 PIT @ DET (win)
6 Oct 18 CLE @ PIT (win)
7 Oct 25 MIN @ PIT (win)
8 Bye
9 Nov 09 PIT @ DEN (win)
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT (win)
11 Nov 22 PIT @ KC (win)
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL (loss)
13 Dec 06 OAK @ PIT (win)
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE (win)
15 Dec 20 GB @ PIT (win)
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT (win)
17 Jan 03 PIT @ MIA (win)
13-3. I think Cutler and Da Bears surprise them in an early season upset.
I also have to say I think Pittsburg is one of the most boring football watches in the league. They are like watching an undefeated boxer who has hardly any knockouts on his record. They should get enough points to win, but the action leaves alot to be desired. Roethlisberger will throw just enough passes for just enough yards and the defenses basically shuts out the opposition or hold them to alot of field goals. Zzzzzz…Yawn…Steelers win again.
JohnWaynesworld
May 21st, 2009
5:12 pm
Except for the last Super Bowl of course, where Pittsburg’s defense uncharacteristically let Arizona off the hook.
jason
May 21st, 2009
5:14 pm
JJ, Here you go. This calls for a Prime Rib, but i used it on the Rib Eyes. I love my Prime Rib, but Military don’t cover the cost.
HERB-CRUSTED RIB EYE with RED WINE SAUCE
SAUCE:
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 med. Carrot roughly chopped
2 stalks celery roughly chopped
1 med. yellow Onion, roughly chopped
5 med. Garlic cloves, crushed
2 Tbsp Tomato paste
3 Cups Beef broth
1 Cup dry Red wine
1/4 Cup Balsamic vinegar
2 Bay leaves
1 TBsp finely chopped,fresh Rosemary
Freshly ground Black pepper
4 TBsp unsalted butter
Kosher salt
1 Rib Eye Roast, about 5 pounds, trimmed of excess fat
Extra virgin olive oil
2 TBsp Herbes de Provence
1.) To make the sauce; in a large saucepan over high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the carrot, celery, and onion, and cook until the vegetables begin to brown, 6 to 8 min., stirring occasionally. Add the Garlic and cook for 2 more min., stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium, add the tomato paste, and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the broth, wine, vinegar, Bay leaves, Rosemary, and 1/2 tsp.of pepper. Mix well. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 45 min.
2.) Strain the sauce through a sieve into a medium saucepan, pressing down on the solids with the backof a spoon. Continue to simmer until about 3/4 Cup of liquid remains, about 45 more min. Add the butter 1 TBsp at a time, whisking to melt them. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the sauce from the heat.
3.) Allow the beef to stand at room temperature 30 to 45 min. before grilling. Lightly brush or spray the roast all over with oil and season with the herbe de Provence, and salt and pepper to taste.
4.) Grill the beef over INDIRECT MEDIUM heat until cooked to desired doneness, 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 hrs. for medium-rare, but start checking with an instant read thermometer after 1 1/4 hrs. Transfer the beef to cutting board. Loosely uncover with aluminum foil, and let rest for 10-20 min. Meanwhile warm the sauce over med. heat. Serve Rib Eye with sauce.
I know it is a little time consuming, but well worth it. I cooked this before the Super Bowl last year. I have alot more recipes for grilling. All kinds of meat. Oh yeah, Serve with iced cold Beer, or Wine of your choice. Enjoy.
JJ
May 21st, 2009
5:21 pm
Awe jason, thanks..you’re in my dog house now…good thing…think arsenio….lol…love recipes! At 6′1 – 235 (on a good day), I love good meals and would rather throw down with my friends than throw down my wallet at a restaurant…thanks again! keep ‘em coming…brew crew!
jason
May 21st, 2009
5:33 pm
No problem. Each week, tell me what meat you want to grill, and I’l throw a recipe out. I have this book with just about any kind of meat you want to eat. Steak, pork, chicken, roast, brisket (TX), Lamb, duck, even buffalo, I thik. Covers just about anything you would want to throw on the grill.
JJ
May 21st, 2009
5:42 pm
dog pound, not dog house! Thanks again jason, I’m sure our man D3 has added your reipe to the collective…”it is futile to resist:…borg-ism!
PS3 VS XBOX ? ..waiting on ryan, turner and baker on madden this yr! Last summer, they had the 2007 crew on it and just like espn madden match-up, looking forward to simulating OUR games before each week. No ceo to battle….thank you lord.
jason
May 21st, 2009
6:01 pm
JJ, I am still on the PS2. I can’t bring myself to spend the money. The wife and I are talking about the Wii for the family. I just want to play my NCAA with my DAWGS in the Black jerseys. When I play Madden, I use the 1980’s Red. I just love the red helmet. The funny thing about Madden is , when I use Atlanta, The only team I play with. They were so bad, I would put nothing but UGA and Tech players on my team. That was hard, because other than RBs it was loaded with defensive players.
jason
May 21st, 2009
6:03 pm
I didn’t even buy Madden this past year. I played nothing but NCAA. I might have to go with it this year though.
row3
May 21st, 2009
6:33 pm
1 Sep 10 TEN @ PIT (win)
2 Sep 20 PIT @ CHI (loss)
3 Sep 27 PIT @ CIN (win)
4 Oct 04 SD @ PIT (win)
5 Oct 11 PIT @ DET (win)
6 Oct 18 CLE @ PIT (win)
7 Oct 25 MIN @ PIT (win)
8 Bye
9 Nov 09 PIT @ DEN (win)
10 Nov 15 CIN @ PIT (win)
11 Nov 22 PIT @ KC (win)
12 Nov 29 PIT @ BAL (win)
13 Dec 06 OAK @ PIT (win)
14 Dec 10 PIT @ CLE (win)
15 Dec 20 GB @ PIT (win)
16 Dec 27 BAL @ PIT (win)
17 Jan 03 PIT @ MIA (loss) Home field already secured.
14-2 Home field though out the playoffs
JJ
May 21st, 2009
6:44 pm
jason, yea..i’m still PS2 as well. I’ve waited 3 yrs and I dont think prices are going to drop much more. I added $400 to my next contract just for this reason…sorry contractors do this. About the recipes jason, I have over 60 cookbooks…kind of a hobby. I think I speak for D3 when I say we want our falcon nation football recipes. They can be from a cookbook, but most impt., they have been used several times and have become a staple of your game day cooking…I can look up reicpes…I want our fellow brothers/1 sis/ tried and true reipes!
I will make your rib-eye reipe because you have made it, and personally recommend it. I’m going to try D3 potato things this weekend because he put his name on it. Just fun shit for those who love the falcons and I like to cook (well…like to eat)! No unproven, untasted recipes please!!! I do a christmass roast and if the rib-eye succees, i’ll give you the name of x-mass roast—jasons standing pot roast!
falcon21
May 21st, 2009
7:43 pm
Jason, who was the coach at Ga. Southern before Brain VanGorder took over?
jason
May 21st, 2009
8:37 pm
Mike Sewak, lasted one year.
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
9:09 pm
Strig,
I hope you are out there lurkin’. Please speak up. WR, K Strick Seminole Warrior, Marko, Reno911, Nookah, I mus.write, Seatle’s. Someone please speak up.
jason
May 21st, 2009
9:13 pm
Unca’ Bob, I’m here. Kind of quiet this evening, huh?
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
9:16 pm
jason,
It is indeed.
falcon21
May 21st, 2009
9:18 pm
Thanks Jason, a co-worker and I could not figure it out.
jason
May 21st, 2009
9:21 pm
So, what’s on tap? We have falcon21 looking around also. Throw out a topic, and we will get started.
Unca' Bob
May 21st, 2009
9:24 pm
cutter,
How did the OTA’s go today?