5 things we learned from the Saints game
This is not the goal post that Jason Elam missed twice. That one was at the other end of the Superdome. (D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER/AJC)
LUCYS RETIRED SURFER’S BAR – Lucy’s is the best bar in America.
Lucy's, a safe haven for retired surfers and sports writers.
Only the Slippery Noodle in Indianapolis is on par.
After the game –- because newspaper folks don’t charter out with the team like some of our TV/sponsor friends –- that’s where I retreated.
I did see Jeremy Shockey drop his Cadillac at the hotel and ask how much valet was for the night ($50). He hopped into the back seat of a cop car and rode off to his little celebration. I’m thinking the cop was his body guard for the night.
But here are the five things I came up with at Lucy’s with the benefit of watching the ESPN replays while B52s and Rock Lobster were blaring in the background.
1. Vilma’s tip: If Jonathan Vilma doesn’t tip that pass, the Falcons win. Tony Gonzalez was open and set to gather in the go ahead touchdown pass. The Falcons would have gone ahead 31-28 with 8:30 to play. But the tipped ball ended up in the hands of Tracy Porter for an interception.
Will Smith (not that Will Smith) spent too much time in the Falcons backfield. (CHUCK COOK/THE TIMES-PICAYUNE)
2. Vilma’s pass interference wasn’t call: The Falcons would not have been down 28-14 at halftime if the officials would have called pass interference on Vilma for hitting Roddy White, way more than 5 yards down the field. Vilma’s hit was blatant. The one the called later on Mike Peterson was a “touch” foul. With White off track for his route, Jabari Greer stepped in and intercepted the pass and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown.
3. Who’s the left cornerback?: Tye Hill started at left cornerback, but gave way to Brent Grimes after suffering a really bad case of cramps. Hill was solid, but gave up a touchdown pass to Marques Colston. Grimes came in and had that awesome interception. Do we have a cornerback controversy? It is the position that was manned by DeAngelo Hall, who’ll be visiting the Georgia Dome with the Washington Redskins this week.
4. DB Jamaal “Cover Corner” Anderson: Why exactly was Jamaal Anderson is pass coverage – oh about 20 yards down field with my hotel mate Shockey? Who drew up that scheme?
5. Wire is a ball hawk: Coy Wire came up with two fumble recoveries, including the onsides kick. He also ripped the ball away from Pierre Thomas to help keep the Falcons’ hope alive.
Just a couple of other things: Lenny Kravitz was in the house. Are we going to see Matt Ryan in the pre-game hype huddle getting the team fired up like Drew Brees does with the Saints? If the QB is out there getting pumped like that, what’s the backup defensive tackle going to do?
Pierre Thomas flips into the endzone on the Falcons. (MATT BUSH/HATTIESBURG AMERICAN)
(Made my 6 a.m. flight along with Mark Bradley, radio personality Elle Duncan and retired left tackle Todd Weiner).
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184 comments Add your comment
TMoney
November 3rd, 2009
9:46 am
Overall, I’m impressed with the Falcons performance. The game was closer than I expected, and a couple of calls by the refs may have cost them a win. Of course, Roddy White did give a little push on his long TD, but that more often than not is not called in the NFL.
It was Vilma’s pass interference that blew my mind. I saw it live and was thinking “Well, at least this won’t count.” I couldn’t believe there wasn’t a flag. Overall, though, I’m still impressed with the Falcons. Looking at there schedule, I see every game as winnable if we show this kind of emotion and will. But let’s take this one at a time, we’ve got an incoming Redskins team that’s had a week off to prepare for the Falcons. I never thought we’d have a must win game in week 8, but that’s what this is.
mike
November 3rd, 2009
9:48 am
any luck with elle duncan on the plane ride?.. she is a looker!
Falconsforlife
November 3rd, 2009
9:48 am
Just hope we don’t play like crap against the awful Skins because of how emotinally draining this game was. I still have a sick feeling in my stomach.
Sekou Smith
November 3rd, 2009
9:48 am
Don’t know Todd Weiner but the rest of that traveling party I can roll with.
Southside Falcon
November 3rd, 2009
9:55 am
Im with you Tmoney. Impressive very, everybody had them getting staright up torched, and the held there own. But that non call on Vilma has me Fuming plus alot of the time they were off sides no call but i kinda expected that to go that way WE WILL GET OUR REVENGE
IceFan
November 3rd, 2009
9:57 am
I really hope the majority of you realize how well we played, and that if a couple of breaks go our way we win this game.
This was a great effort (minus Elam) and it will help us for the rest of the year. We are a good team that got beat by a great team. Deal with it and watch as we get into the playoffs at 10-6.
I MUS WRITE
November 3rd, 2009
10:03 am
Mike- Elle dates Michael Turner, Bow tie doesnt have a chance-for that matter neither do i,but you’re right she definitely is a looker.
no trophy’s for moral victories but we played well and didnt get blown out like many thought
Jimmyjam
November 3rd, 2009
10:04 am
I’m proud of my Falcons. They were competitive and will continue to be so in the future. The Falcon Nation has nothing but brighter days ahead.
freddie_falcon
November 3rd, 2009
10:07 am
It was a great game and the falcons sghowed they could play with the best I will be in the GA dome sunday and we will win. One thing all the falcons have to do is make the playoffs and anything can happen!
Keith
November 3rd, 2009
10:22 am
I said that if we played perfectly, then we would have a chance to win. I guess the consolation is that if we don’t have the 2 INTs, then we WOULD have definitely won. Proves that we can hang with the best team in the NFL if we are prepared. Hopefully, they get pissed off vs the Redskins as we welcome them back to the friendly GA Dome.
Keith
November 3rd, 2009
10:23 am
Even ONE of the missed FGs and ONE of the INTs would have probably won it for us. Sad thing is, it should have been the Saints trying for a last-second hail mary/TD.
Antonio Gramsci
November 3rd, 2009
10:32 am
It’s a morning like this that I hate living in NOLA. I’m just glad the Falcons covered the spread so all those “WhoDopes” lost their drinking money for the week. I hope this game taught Atlanta just what effort is required on every play if they want to be where they were last season. If they had shown up like this against Dallas, the division would still be in play.
Battfist
November 3rd, 2009
10:32 am
Lets be real. Matt Ryan should of never threw the ball to White. Whether Vilma touched him or not…Greer read the play all the way, that pass was getting picked.
White did push off on his TD pass too….non-call.
Stop whinning about the calls.
The better team won.
renee'
November 3rd, 2009
10:38 am
what about the offensive pass interference on roddy white. he clearly pushed off. pierre thomas fumbled and recovered ..then the refs blow the whistle after they strip ball. we missed a field foal as well. Saints still win..falcons lose!! who dat!
atldeadhead
November 3rd, 2009
10:39 am
It was a great game and proved that the Falcons have a great team. I know it’s only gonna get better. Congrats to Turner having a big night. Man, oh, man. If only that pass to Gonzalez isn’t tipped and Elam makes those FG’s. We could’ve won that game!
Way to Go Falcons!
Falconsforlife
November 3rd, 2009
10:41 am
Yeah Battfist, whether it should have been a penalty or not is irrelevant. Matt made a poor decision. He definitely has been slumping the last few weeks, but it was bound to happen eventually. It’s how he rebounds is what counts. Like Smitty said in the post game presser this team will be judged by the total 16 games, not a 3 game stretch.
Let’s hope they boys watch the tape, move on, and focus on yet ANOTHER team coming off of their bye this week. What a joke schedule we got shafted with this year.
renee'
November 3rd, 2009
10:46 am
how ar ya’ll saying the falcons could have won? it still had 8 min. left in the game. what if our kicker would have made his FG, what if pierre thomas didn’t get us a penalty for celebrating,what if the refs had called pass interference on roddy? it all doesn’t matter..cuz the Saints still win!!!!
K26dp
November 3rd, 2009
10:47 am
Re: Anderson covering Shockley. I believe there was a safety blitz called. I suspect Anderson saw Shockley break off and attempted to cover, which is what he’s supposed to do, since the safety is blitzing. Unfortunately the heat didn’t get to Brees, and Shockley made Anderson (and Van Gorder) look bad.
Hill Started Monday Night :: Fantasy Football - Free News, Cheatsheets, Tools, and Advice. Leagues and Games.
November 3rd, 2009
10:54 am
[...] SOURCE: ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION [...]
FORMER FALCONS FAN!!!
November 3rd, 2009
10:56 am
let’s keep it real!!! matty ice melted!!!
he can throw the ball accurately within 30 yards, but he doesn’t have the arm strenght to throw the ball deep. defensive pressure is really beginning to bother him, his timing and his poise. YOU CAN SUGARCOAT IT ALL YOU WANT!!! But if roddy doesn’t make a play / push off on the 68 yard pass the falcons would have lost that game by more points. This Guy is ok! but compared to drew breeze!!! man get real!!! time will show everything!!!!
FORMER FALCONS FAN!!!
November 3rd, 2009
11:01 am
by the way!!! THE FALCONS WILL FINISH 7-9 MARK MY WORD!!!
KJB
November 3rd, 2009
11:04 am
Saints fan here…
There were blown calls on both sides of the ball…terrible refs. How many refs does it take to know the correct time on the play clock? As bad as the missed call on Vilma was, White’s was just as bad. I’ve give you that phantom holding on Reggie (sorry don’t know who was the defender that got pegged for it…but it wasn’t holding) Again missed calls all around that I think evened out in the end.
If teams don’t turn the ball over like both teams did last night, bad refs don’t matter.
Props to the Falcons…great game and I can see this rivalry really going strong for years to come. Don’t slag on Ryan, he played great. Our D has just been unreal this year. But I look forward to many more games like that (endings the same too please!). You all have a great young QB and new coach…similar to where we were a couple of years ago. The rivalry could really get fun again…and last night was fun. We’ll see you guys at least once more this year…maybe 2 times depending on how the playoffs go. I’d be shocked if the Falcons aren’t a wildcard…sorry, the NFC South is ours!
FORMER FALCONS FAN!!!
November 3rd, 2009
11:06 am
****REALITY CHECK**** THE SHIP IS GOING DOWN AND THE ICE IS MELTING!!! JUMP OFF WHILE YOU CAN****
SWAT Native
November 3rd, 2009
11:10 am
Unfortunately, the Falcons probably lost the division last night, but they showed that they can play with the Saints in their building. We’ll see them in the Georgia Dome, and we may get to try them again in their building in the playoffs. The Falcons will be even tougher down the road, and it may turn out that the Saints peaked too soon.
JeanE
November 3rd, 2009
11:16 am
Everyone seems to be jumping all over Matt Ryan on the other blog: let’s take a breath people! And I’m hoping the reason Elam missed the should’ve been automatic inside the 50 is b/c he’s still nursing a hamstring? If that is so, why not allow Koenen to kick the field goals? Ryan does need to toughen up and not get happy feet so early but that will come, I hope! I’m proud of this team and the resiliency we showed! That interception by Grimes was amazing! What a vertical leap! If only he had a few more inches to go with that heart! My complaints are this: 1) why is Curtis Lofton playing special teams? 2) Where was the no huddle? 3) Why can’t we spread the ball around the the receivers? Finn, bless his hard working, awesome blocking heart, can actually CATCH the ball, remember Mularkey? 4) Jamaal Anderson should never be in pass coverage, BVG! That’s about it, it was a close game. Too many mistakes on our side and we lost to what is probably 1 of the best teams in football so no shame. We can and will win next week, Go Birds!!!
Rdhdkid
November 3rd, 2009
11:16 am
We learned that even a blind squirrel finds an acorn every once in a while! Kudos to Grimes on his interception and a couple of good tackles. Don’t know if Houston has a nickname or not, but “Flounder” seems to fit nicely.
Rdhdkid
November 3rd, 2009
11:20 am
Hey KJB – I was thinking as I was watching the blown calls that this had to be a nightmare game for the officials. Since they *seem* to work so hard to make calls against both these teams on a regular basis when playing others, what’s a guy to do when they play each other?
Old Bird Fan
November 3rd, 2009
11:22 am
I was generally proud of the Falcons for their effort – it was close. I just want to know whether the call has already been made to Mort today.
Zoomie
November 3rd, 2009
11:22 am
J. Anderson telegraphed that he was dropping into coverage on Shockley. Of course, Brees knew where he was throwing that ball before it was snapped. Not a smart defensive call on Atlanta’s part.
I didn’t see the illegal contact on Roddy White on the interception. If White was knocked off his route, then he gets a pass. What I saw was Roddy White dropping behind the zone coverage before hooking his route instead of hooking in front of the coverage. I don’t blame Ryan for that interception; he expected, and should’ve expected, White to hook up in front of the coverage.
The Interception in the red zone was simply stellar play by Vilma (much like Grimes’ interception — just a great leap, timing, and extension). I don’t blame Ryan for that one, either.
For the Falcons to go into New Orleans and stay in the game, have a few officiating decisions mean the difference between a loss and a possible win is a positive for the Falcons. Atlanta gets another crack at NO at home; should be another great game.
The Falcons finally brought a great running attack. Every time they do, they will be in contention.
All in all, the Flacons played well. No real complaints.
Roddy TD
November 3rd, 2009
11:23 am
The Roddy White touchdown was pass interference…defensive. The DB looked back for the ball and intentionally slowed and changed direction in an attempt to get in the way because they don’t call defensive interference if you look for the ball. Its a terrible rule because players can do exactly what the Saints’ DB did. He should have been flagged. Luckily it didn’t matter, but it definitely was not interference on White. He was looking for the ball and continued running his route. Watch the play again and you’ll see.
SaintsFanK3
November 3rd, 2009
11:24 am
Battfist had it right. The bad calls went both ways. Take your loss and deal with it. The Saints are unstoppable.
Spud Webb
November 3rd, 2009
11:25 am
tough to take a blogger seriously when he spells drew brees, drew breeze. ahhahahahahahhahahahha
KJB
November 3rd, 2009
11:32 am
White had both hands under Harper at one point and then pushed him off…Offensive PI.
Again, calls were terrible both ways and I was giving a lot of props to the Falcons. The holding on Will Smith most of the night was called all of 2 times and he was tackled on one play when it wasn’t called.
And on the ATL touchdown in the back of the endzone that was overturned via replay (White I think it was?)…the ref was right there in front of the play looking dead on at it and didn’t see the ball hit the ground? How was that possible? He was closer to the play than the camera!
tboneforever
November 3rd, 2009
11:32 am
Wow. Didn’t know that Matt Ryan was noodle armed. He lost some stock last night.
WHO DAT!!
Nut
November 3rd, 2009
11:35 am
Enter your comments here
adam
November 3rd, 2009
11:36 am
Former Falcons Fan!!!!!
“This Guy is ok! but compared to drew breeze!!! man get real!!! time will show everything!!!!”
Drew Brees’ 2nd and 3rd year stats– please keep in mind this was with LT in the backfield at a time when he was All-Pro
2002 San Diego Chargers passer rating 76.9 with 17 TDs and 16 Ints and a completion percentage of 60.8%
2003 San Diego Chargers passer rating 67.5 with 11 TDs and 15 Ints and a completion percentage of 57.6%
midnite
November 3rd, 2009
11:37 am
thank for the positive piece DOL
cnell28
November 3rd, 2009
11:38 am
I have questions that only the coaches can answer. I seen to many times during the game where matt ryan had nobody to pass to. Why is that? answer: we were only running 2 receivers in routes a lot of times deep against 4-5 Db’s. Micheal Jenkins is not the answer at the #2 Wr. Play calling is very suspect and how we use our personnel and certain situations. example: Jamal Anderson aka. Ludacris gaurding shockey. Why do we not use what works best for us more often. We blitz then we don’t blitz. One of our best weapons on offense is our no huddle. We haven’t ran that in 2 games. Hopefully Micheal Turner can keep up his desire to be one of the best RB in the league instead of tip toeing to the line and not running over people like he can. Matt Ryan gets real jumpy and panics when pressure gets close to him. he needs to relax in the pocket. The biggest thing on Offense that we need to do a lot more is THROW THE BALL DEEP. STRETCH THE DEFENSE OUT SO THEIR SAFETIES CAN NOT MAKE PLAYS ON THE RUN GAME. Overall I was pleased with the effort. Ref’s did not call a lot of calls last night that should have been called (holdings, Pass inter)
NoleRick
November 3rd, 2009
11:47 am
The better team won last night. Cudoes to the Saints.
The Saints first loss of the season comes in the Ga. Dome. Bank on it!
**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**
November 3rd, 2009
11:51 am
OK!!! Lets start this up. First…let me say that I’m really PROUD of the BIRDS. Think about it…the Giants went down there and got canned…the Jets went down there and got pillaged. We go down there and pretty much outplay the SAINTS. We should have won the damn game had it not been for a couple of plays that just did not go our way…a couple of additional points to consider:
1) Let me be the FIRST to CONGRATULATE BRENT GRIMES on a fine performance. The guy came to play…and I think he took being benched personally. He tackled well last night…had the freakish PICK that was ON time, and made several plays on the ball that were impressive. In my opinion, still not a deep third CB, but certainly a NFL caliber DB. Line him up INSIDE the hashes and let him roam…
2) The Burner needed the defensive scheme change…i.e. he was glad to hit the SuperDome. He looked good last night…he got his carries, got going and looked like himself. And remember folks, there was no Norwood or Snelling last night.
3) Ryan was REALLY off the mark. Plus, he seemed to zero in on receivers, particularly Tony G. I realize that the pressure will make any QB sputter, but he seemed to be off all night. Plus, he seemed to hold the ball too long, took needless sacks, and just did not have any escapability to prolong a play. Needs to move around in the pocket more. His last heave was absolutely HORRIBLE. Put some air under the ball to give #84 a chance…what was he thinking?
4) #12 Jenkins had a really poor night…he has got to get better, or we will need to look at other options at the 2nd receiver spot. Big drop on third down in the red zone…and he just does not fight for balls like he should. I know we miss Harry Douglas, but I expect more out of Jenkins the veteran.
5) Lofton, Peterson and Nicholas are MEN. Period. Add Wire to that list as well. Add DeCoud to that list. Add Coleman to that list. #98 Anderson played well, and the rookie Walker provided a spark…in sum, the defense came to play. I would still like to see #23 spend some time watching but hey, he gave up only ONE big play this week….and #22 Chevis??? C’mon, wrap up and force the field goal. I even liked what #24 Hill did…although I can see why he stays injured: he ducks his head on tackles.
All in all…the Birds gave major EFFORT, and that gives me reason for sustained hope and optimism…specifically in Smitty’s ability to motivate the troops. Redskins come calling…and they should have a hard time with Turner. Play-action pass should be there. I’ll really be looking at Ryan to see what is going on. Plant your feet, look safeties off and bounce back strong in the Dome.
FBD
Decatur Native
November 3rd, 2009
12:00 pm
Great Job Falcon’s you played as good as you could have and REGARDLESS what the people on this blog says you have a great YOUNG team that has yet to reach it’s stride, wait till the Birds fill those few holes we still have,
Elton
November 3rd, 2009
12:03 pm
Look i understand hurt and wanting your team to win and all, but it reading some of your comments about blown calls and excuses that are being made for the Falcons loss? paint this picture in your head remember the W.Smith hitting M.Ryan arm and the ball skidding out and replay to see if it was tuck rule or whatever? well what does it take to get a holding call in the NFL, does the fact your LT is on the back of Will Smith holding both his arms so he can’t extend to sack M.Ryan get a little yellow flag? that crap was going on all night long and only called once, he was holding W.Smith damn near every play.
MAD-DONNA
November 3rd, 2009
12:06 pm
Whatever, you hopeless Falcon fans! Looks like Tony G. will miss the playoffs again!
bgf
November 3rd, 2009
12:08 pm
Falcons never played scared !! They never gave up ! Had some BAD calls!att is in his 2nd season , Brees has more under his belt , wait ! Matt played just a great as the Vet!, Great running game ! poor kicker! needs work or another kicker!. But all in all the fALCON MADE THEM work !! we WILL meet AND WIN !!AND WITHOUT BAD CALLS!!!!!
Dorothy Bickham
November 3rd, 2009
12:08 pm
I understand Atlanta needed the win but what did you expect the Saints to do, give the game away. Yes the Saints are a very good team this year and Atlanta needs to move on, they lost, so get over it. As far as Antonio Gramsci’s comments about the WhoDopes in New Orleans losing their drinking money on the point spread, all my friends who are Saints fans work, none are on Dope and can afford to buy drinks any day of the week. Let’s not get nasty, it’s only a game, and one that we the WhoDopes won!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Chris
November 3rd, 2009
12:13 pm
What’s up with Abraham?
Why does Ryan run forward into the line when he gets pressure, instead of rolling out and buying time?
Mughelli’s return made the difference in the running game. Turner needs to buy him a car or something.
myran
November 3rd, 2009
12:24 pm
Trust me, guy. You were never a fan. Just a fake.
Rdhdkid
November 3rd, 2009
12:29 pm
myran said: Trust me, guy. You were never a fan. Just a fake.
You just might get the reaction you seek if you’d make it clear who you’re referring to.
Kevin
November 3rd, 2009
12:30 pm
Saints fan here. First of all, I think you guys are on the right track. Great coach, great young QB; it’s going to be fun to watch Saints-Falcons for years to come.
Let’s talk about those blown calls. I hated to see that borderline defensive holding called. But Brees’ fumble in the first quarter was caused on a very obvious helmet-to-helmet hit. Was it intentional? Doubtful. But that doesn’t matter. NFL refs have been very consistent about that call all season, so why they missed it in that situation is beyond me. Should have been 15 yard personal foul penalty, Saints ball. Then there was Mike Bells’s “fumble” after his forward progress had obviously been stopped. You guys should know better than to complain about those borderline officiating calls. They go both ways in almost every game and they did again last night.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
November 3rd, 2009
12:36 pm
Coach Smith is speaking at 3 p.m. today. Send along questions. I’ll try to get them in.
Hey there Sekou: Todd Weiner is the retired left tackle. He might have done a better job on Will “Get Jiggy With it” Smith.
Steve C
November 3rd, 2009
12:36 pm
Elton,
We could say the same thing about John Abraham being strangled by your LT every play.
Nick
November 3rd, 2009
12:37 pm
The pass that was tipped by Vilma and intercepted would not have gone for a touchdown. Mike Peterson did hold Bush, but the ball was totally uncatchable! And Roddy White’s overturned TD catch was pass interference!
Falcon in a down spin with Ryan (Patty Melt) ICE NOT
November 3rd, 2009
12:40 pm
YOU had better keep Tuner healty . Keep the hit off Ryan he does fine . When he get pressure and a few hits he become instance Punk!! The CB will be fine
ira lovett
November 3rd, 2009
12:49 pm
good game falcons, ryan needs some help from his other wide receivers, also ryan needs to calm down and stop trying to force his passes
corner backs look back for the ball sometimes.
DC
November 3rd, 2009
1:00 pm
Enjoyed the game and was imperssed with the Falcons. The game in our doem will be a different story. I just want Matt to stop forcing the ball into double coverage it does not help.
DC
November 3rd, 2009
1:01 pm
“impressed” is what I meant.
Jason Morgan
November 3rd, 2009
1:02 pm
Why wasn’t offensive pass interference called on Roddy Whiteon his long touchdown catch in the 3rd quarter? The Brees fumble was the tuck rule if there has ever been one. There is 14 points right there the Falcons shouldn’t of had. Face facts, the Saints kicked your dirty bird butts. Have kicked your dirty bird butts 6 of the last 7 and will kick your dirty bird butts again December 13th.
**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**
November 3rd, 2009
1:06 pm
Questions for you to ask D-LED:
1) How likely is it that the Falcons use Koenen on field goal attempts? Particularly those that are 40 yards or more?
2) Will Snelling and Norwood be ready on Sunday?
3) Will we ever see someone else at the Right Cornerback position? What is the devotion to #23?
4) On the Ryan interception in the red zone that nullified our attempt to take the lead…was Tony G. the primary receiver? Did the fact that the LB was in the passing lane make any difference?
Coryb06
November 3rd, 2009
1:11 pm
I’m proud of the way the guys responded to the Cowboys loss. The Falcons still have to get a consistent pass rush going. Grimes “balled out” and Mike Turner finally showed up when needed. Matt telegraphed that pass to Gonzalez that Vilma tipped. I wonder had he looked to his right and pumped and came back if Vilma had been in the area to get ahold of it.
Sunday is an absolute must win and I hope that the Falcons are up for it and bring their A game. We don’t want the Falcons to go out like the Eagles did against the Raiders.
Also, I wonder if Dimitroff is going to pick up another running back with speed in the draft…I’m starting to wonder about Norwood’s durability.
Lil Larry
November 3rd, 2009
1:27 pm
D.OL you can ask Smith these questions:
1) Does he have a problem sitting a player who is not producing? (Mike Jenkins) When we have Finn and Booker who are more than capable.
2) When are we going to stop being so predictable in our offensive play calling? Too many players staying in to block and defense still getting to our QB. Can we throw some screens, pitch outs around the end, skinny posts up the middle using Weems?
3) Are there any plans to rotate the RBs more often to keep the fresh throughout the game? Forget Norwood he’s not an every down back. Alternate between Turner and Snelling. By the way, what are the plans for Stecker.
Thanks
Terrell
November 3rd, 2009
1:36 pm
Battfist,
That was not a push off. If you know anything about the rules you are allowed to put your hands on the DB as long as you don’t induce momentum. White did not do that. Greer bumped into him as well. That’s called playing football, try it once in awhile.
Terrell
November 3rd, 2009
1:49 pm
Jason Morgan, are you serious? There was no pass interference. WRs are allowed to touch the DB. He did not cause Greer to go upfield. Greer didn’t complain so obviously there wasn’t a penalty. That Brees fumble was not a tuck rule at all. He had secured the ball to brace for the hit and once again there wasn’t a complaint by any of the Saints’ players.
Kevin, helmet to helmet? Brees ducked his head down. If he doesn’t do that then there is no helmet to helmet contact. That was why it wasn’t called.
Nick, if the pass was never tipped, Gonzo was in the endzone, Porter wasn’t going to tackle him. Peterson did not hold Bush at all. Holding isn’t predicated on the ball being catchable or not only pass interference is.
Finally Elton, when W.Smith hit Ryan that did not induce the fumble, Ryan still had controll of the ball as he brought his arm forward. The pass was altered yes but Ryan had control of the ball
Terrell
November 3rd, 2009
1:51 pm
JeanE,
The no huddle didn’t happen because Atlanta wasn’t trying to get into a shootout with the Saints. When you do no huddle you use less time on the clock and allow Brees and the offense more time on the field.
Matt 'Choke" Ryan
November 3rd, 2009
1:52 pm
5 THINGS WE LEARNED:
1. QB RATING vs Chicago…..68
2. QB RATING vs Dallas……66
3. QB RATING vs Saints…….46 (Can it go any lower?)
4. Falcons have beaten 3 teams currently with 3-4 records
5. The Redskins are NUMBER 2 in total defense
This guy had a 108 QB RATING after week 2 and since the New England game, with a slight blimp with the niners game, his QB RATING has sank faster than the Titantic at an amazing 82.
Arthur Blank, this “New Face” project is just like the CHOKE – a BUST!
nanunanu
November 3rd, 2009
1:52 pm
1. Not quite sure how you figure the Falcons win without Porter’s interception. With 8:30 left in the game at home the Saints would have scored (they did score after the Porter interception). 2. If you give White the interference call on Vilma to make it fair give Greer the interference call on White.
Terrell
November 3rd, 2009
1:54 pm
KJB,
How many times was John Abraham held? John Madden says it best, “Holding happens of almost every single play, it’s just a question is how much are the refs willing to tolerate?”
tyger
November 3rd, 2009
1:57 pm
1. Matt Ryan is too easily rattled; he’s starting to look for places to fall.
2. Did Elam throw the game???
3. Coleman, Lofton, Peterson, DeCoud are hitters!
4. Injuries catching up: Jerry, Moore, Douglass, Norwood, Williams, Snelling hurt.
5. Corners are too small !!!
6. Matty Slice can only throw to the middle of the field.
7. Falcoons sans screen play.
Terrell
November 3rd, 2009
2:00 pm
nanunanu,
There wasn’t any Pass interference on White. Greer knows it that’s why he didn’t say anything. What really hurt Atlanta was that holding call. I understand the other things happen in the game but with the game winding down and that close you don’t make that kind of call. There was contact but it was within 5 yards and it wasn’t holding. All the other stuff I’ll take but it was that call that really hurt us because it went from 3rd down to 1st down and that gave the Saints new life. I would’ve felt better if we had lost and that call wasn’t made, but that’s water under the bridge now. While everybody ready to crown the Saints the divison champs I don’t think it will play out like that. I think our next meeting will have as much meaning as this one.
Clemfan
November 3rd, 2009
2:06 pm
who dat is actually an upgrade from the normal vocabulary that comes out of new orleans
P. L. Charles
November 3rd, 2009
2:11 pm
GEAUX SAINTS! Here’s five things I noticed about this column and the atlanta vultures…
1. Stop whining – There can be holding called or pass interference on every play. No one said anything about the push off Roddy White used on Greer to get open for that 3rd quarter TD.
2. Even if they (the ugly vultures) score on the Porter interception, do you really think they were going to stop the SAINTS?
3. Someone might want to block Will Smith. Or don’t, as a Saints fan I don’t mind.
4. The atlanta defense played very well in the second half.
5. That being said…SAINTS WIN!
P. L. Charles
November 3rd, 2009
2:14 pm
Oh and clemfan, I happen to speak the “King’s English” quite well. I would not be so quick to denounce the speaking patterns of one city till you walk around your own town. You need a translator to understand the atlanta version of english. WHO DAT!
Nobis
November 3rd, 2009
2:18 pm
How do you spell loser = FORMER FALCONS FAN!!!
brody
November 3rd, 2009
2:20 pm
This game should have been won by the falcons. The sants are supposed to be the “best” team in the league and they needed BS calls by the refs to get away with a win, albeit Brees looked good as always. Defense played pretty well, Tye hill looked good all night and was tight in coverage when he gave up the TD. Pretty encouraging signs from the D
Alloy505
November 3rd, 2009
2:23 pm
For all the talk about the blown calls, why is virtually NO ONE talking about the HUGE dropped pass by Jenkins on third down. To me, THAT, was the difference maker of the game. Say what you will about the interference calls, the missed field goals, and even the strong comeback in the fourth quarter. Jenkins drop when he was WIDE OPEN WITH NO DEFENDER on him was crucial to that drive. Yeah, I know Elam should have been money on the 34, but who is to say that if Jenkins makes the completion, the Falcons have a better chance at a touchdown, more so than a shorter field goal. That would have put us up 21-14 with about 7 minutes left to go into halftime. I’m not saying it would have sealed a win.The Saints play great football and would have rallied much like the Falcons did last night. But, the dropped pass by Jenkins was costly more than the penalties everyone is screaming about.
KJB
November 3rd, 2009
2:25 pm
I gave you guys props but rather than owning up to the bad calls on both sides, you peddle on more nonsense…the only thing that really matters is the score at the end of the game. And there’s no debating that…Saints won. That’s all there is to it.
J. J.
November 3rd, 2009
2:29 pm
Lose with dignity…luck birds sometime fly away…
Slim
November 3rd, 2009
2:30 pm
Stop whining and take a ass whoopin like every year before. Football is played on the field not in the blogs. What if? What if? What if we had scored 65 then what. Yall kill me with the useless excuses Atlanta fans. You got a good team the Saints are just better. You didnt expect to win you were hopen for a respectable loss and it was.. Let it go
TURTSNAP
November 3rd, 2009
2:31 pm
I hate to play the “blown ref call” game, but while we are at it… :O)
On numerous replays, I noticed that Abraham was being held all night long. On one play in particular, Brees scrambled to his right and Abraham was trying to break free of a hold to get to him!
I thought the rule was no contact beyond five yards….. Not to mention the Vilma mauling of White, as has been pointed out, but there was another play where the intended receiver was White or Jenkins, and in the background, you can see Gonzalez being knocked down before the ball arrived to its intended target. Granted it wasn’t intended for Gonzalez, but that play normally gets called!
All in all, there were tons of positives to pull from this game. While frustrating, it is better to play as we did against the Saints, than how we played most of the game against the Cowboys, and in the 2nd half of the Pats game.
hiramsaint
November 3rd, 2009
2:34 pm
if vilma doesn’t tip the ball the falcants win? please.. .. there were horrible calls on both sides[non-calls as well].roddy white off. pass int. when he scored. holding by the falcants off. lineman when matty DIDN’T fumble on the sack. y’all need to grow up , accept the loss and move on to the skins. you’ll have another opportunity to make excuses on dec.13 i’m sure. it’ll be the refs, the play calling, matty had the sniffles…….who knows what you’ll come up with then!
Clemfan
November 3rd, 2009
2:36 pm
PL if you think the roddy catch was a push off you obviously have never played football considering the corner had no idea where the ball was and Roddy was trying to get to it. I dont see any atlanta fans screamng whodat all over the place because we dont like insulting ourselves.
your second and fourth statements contradict each other.
hiramsaint
November 3rd, 2009
2:38 pm
you have no reason to scream WHODAT at 4-3
nanunanu
November 3rd, 2009
2:39 pm
Seriously, do you Falcons fans realize how childish you all sound whining about the refs? How about the helmet to helmet hit when Brees fumbled? Check the Giants vs Saints game when Vilma got called for the same hit on Manning. It goes both ways and whining about it doesn’t make a difference. You all need a bunch of pacifiers. NO ONE outside of the state of Georgia thought the Falcons stood a chance last night. The Falcons gave a great effort but the fact is the Saints are 7 and 0 and this year are the better team. Get over it.
FORMER FALCONS FAN
November 3rd, 2009
2:41 pm
HEY!!! spud webb, I spelled Drew Breeze —- DREW BREEZE BECAUSE OF THE POISE AND EASE that he displays in the pocket. The game has truly become a breeze to him. *um* *ss!
Falcon's Fan
November 3rd, 2009
2:42 pm
You Saints fans need to act like you have won before….Oops, you haven’t. Remember you guys started off hott last year? What happened? Please remember, your franchise has only won two playoff games before. Don’t act like you’ve done this before. You still won’t make it to the Superbowl. Lets be real, you needed help AT HOME, 4 INT’s, 2 missed FGs, and Jerrious Norwood (Who is essential to our offense) to beat us.. If this game were at THE DOME(ATL), we get the win.
You are not as good as you think you are and we proved it lasst night.
We’ll take the loss, but we showed we are a tougher team than you.
Can’t wait to see you in OUR HOUSE!!!
GO BIRDS!!!!!!!!!
hiramsaint
November 3rd, 2009
2:46 pm
a W is a W and a L is what the falcants go home with. we’re gonna give you one to match it on the 13th.
Mr Saint
November 3rd, 2009
2:49 pm
Don’t feel bad Falcons fans. The Saints made a LOT of mistakes, that would have left your team looking like one of those teams we beat by forty something. As far as penalties being overlooked. Go the the Neworleanssaints.com and look at the photo gallery,, picture number 25 of the game. There’s one where your defensive guy (NO. 72) is riding our offensive guy like a horse to keep him away from your quarterback….no flag either. Good game, good try, see ya in Atlanta.
FORMER FALCONS FAN
November 3rd, 2009
2:55 pm
matt ryan, joey harrington, anything in common? I’m truly starting to see some leadership in our future. 10 year franchise player huh? 10 year of the same old bull….At Least bart could throw it 70 yards down the feild.
Matt 'Choke" Ryan
November 3rd, 2009
2:56 pm
10-6 this season will not get a playoff birth. Each team will need 11 wins to get in.
The Saints can go 4-5 the rest of the way and finish 11-5.
The Falcons need to go 7-2. That means of the Giants, Eagles, Saints, Panthers, Jets, they have to beat at least 2 of them.
It doesn’t look good when your qb has had 68, 66 & 46 QB RATINGS in consecutive weeks.
The Redskins have the NUMBER 2 overall defense in the NFL, so that is no walk in the park either.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
November 3rd, 2009
2:57 pm
Thanks FDB and Lil Larry for the questions. Coach is up in a few minutes. Presser to be live on NFL Network. I’ve got about 8 questions on my list for Coach.
Necromancer
November 3rd, 2009
3:00 pm
This is about the only time I can honestly say that I feel good after a loss.
The Falcons don’t have too much to hang their heads about. They looked decent and competitive. Even the announcers were saying that the Falcons were a good team.
Mr Saint
November 3rd, 2009
3:00 pm
Hey Falcons Fan:
Number 1: History has been changed quite a few times this year for the Saints.
Number 2: You are right, the Saints played just like you said, shi**y, and still beat your butts.
Number 3: Don’t talk about last year, this is this year, and things ARE better.
Number 4: We are 7-0
Number 5: Right again, we haven’t done this before, thats why its our turn
Number 6: Get over who is injured on your team, all teams have injured players tha could affect the outcome, we had players out.
Number 7: You didn’t prove JACK last nite, except that you lost
Number 8: Last nite was not how the Saints got to 7-0, That was our bad game.
Number 9: Pray we don’t have a good night on Dec 13th
and lastly, be afraid, be very very afraid!!
Mr Saint
November 3rd, 2009
3:03 pm
Number 1: History has been changed quite a few times this year for the Saints.
Number 2: You are right, the Saints played just like you said, shi**y, and still beat your butts.
Number 3: Don’t talk about last year, this is this year, and things ARE better.
Number 4: We are 7-0
Number 5: Right again, we haven’t done this before, thats why its our turn
Number 6: Get over who is injured on your team, all teams have injured players tha could affect the outcome, we had players out.
Number 7: You didn’t prove JACK last nite, except that you lost
Number 8: Last nite was not how the Saints got to 7-0, That was our bad game.
Number 9: Pray we don’t have a good night on Dec 13th
and lastly, be afraid, be very very afraid!!
saints fan
November 3rd, 2009
3:05 pm
Loyal Saints fan here; glad the Saints pulled it off, but hats off to the Falcons for a great nailbiter of a game. Yes, it’s a big rivalry, but the Saints/Falcons matchups are always exciting to say the least. Don’t get too down on yourselves; you have some real talent on that team. As for bad calls–there were several bad calls on both sides of the ball so they would have probably cancelled each other out anyway. The two that come to mind are the Vilma shove that resulted in a pick-6, but also the Roddy White bear hug on Greer and then push off to catch the deep ball for a TD (Devery Henderson was called on an offensive pass interference with a similar push off for a catch that didn’t involve a hold) But all in all it’s defintely always interesting playing the Falcons. Good luck for the rest of the season–of course, except for when we play you all again
First Sergeant
November 3rd, 2009
3:09 pm
The Falcons did play well, as most posters have highlighted. However, turnovers will seal your fate against a 6-0 team. I basically posted to reinforce several comments made about the #2 wide receiver position; Jenkins is too soft. He has to make those easy catches, and it would help if he could make a few tough catches. And, this happens quite frequently.
over it
November 3rd, 2009
3:10 pm
SaintsFanK3 , we will take the loass and deal with it. Do the same with your flood.
Mr Saint
November 3rd, 2009
3:10 pm
A lot of Delusional comments of coulda woulda shoulda Falcons fans. Your a** lost.
Saints Fan
November 3rd, 2009
3:11 pm
As I expected, the Falcons showed up to play. A typical rivalry game equal to GB/MIN or NYG/DAL. Congratulations to both teams; the Falcons for bring their “A” game and the Saints for finding a way to survive without theirs. I will look forward to our next meeting in the GA Dome where hopefully both teams play to their greatest potential. That would be a great game to watch.
toccoadawg
November 3rd, 2009
3:16 pm
What I liked about this game is the TEAM never gave up even with the bad calls. What a difference a coach makes.
MARTIN
November 3rd, 2009
3:16 pm
To (falcon fan). The saints have won before and we as saints fans do know how to act after winning. Stop being the sorry losers that you are and get over it. It was two NFC South foes going at it, and we just happen to come out the winners. You guys make a big deal about the saints never making to the super bowl. So what, what’s the purpose in getting there like your team did years ago, if you don’t walk away with the trophy. If, the saints do make it there, I could only hope that they win in all. After all it appears that the dirty bird fans are happy just getting to the super bowl, we the saints fans want to get there and win it all. Also you guys talk about,” wait until the saints come to the georgia dome”. Guess what last I checked the falcons were not the big bad wolf. The saints will be there on dec 13, and we will play a god game. We will give it our all, and hopefully come away with the win. If we don’t, it’s not the end of the world. But my guess is the saints will in al likely hood have the nfc south rapped up by then, so that game may not matter as much as you guys think.
FrenchQuarterGuy
November 3rd, 2009
3:19 pm
I’m a little baffled here by the comments of some of the Falcon fans. Making excuses about the loss due to events that “were part of the game”.
I would be more “POed” at Jenkins for dropping a 3rd down pass that would have given the Falcons first and goal or White for dropping a touchdown pass (tough catch but it did it “both hands”).
The “no interference call on the touchdown pass to White… First his arms were around Porter then White pushed off…
in comparison to the aforementioned “no call on Vilma” it would have to be considered “a mugging”
You got beat by New Orleans —- New England and Dallas both beat you by 16 and you’re now barely above 500. You’ve still got road games against the Jets and Giants who (IMO have a better run defenses than the Saints) plus the prolific passing teams — Philly and New Orleans.
If Monday night was just “a fluke” night for Turner (getting 100 plus) and you don’t get some secondary help… reality is a 9 & 7 season is a strong possibility and probably won’t get you into the playoffs.
I don’t post outside of New Orleans often but some of the post on here kind of sounded like “whining”? Just not something you’d expect from the fans of a team that won the division last year and is considered by some as a potential super bowl team.
Hang in there…