Good QBs are torching the Falcons’ secondary
NEWARK – There is one thing that is becoming clear as the Falcons hit the .500 mark.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning had his best game of the season, passing for almost 400 yards against the Falcons. (Associated Press).
Teams with above average to great quarterbacks are going to feast on the secondary.
Falcons coach Mike Smith won’t single out the secondary, but tighter and more instinctive coverage would probably get more passes batted down or defense.
“We gave up a lot of passing yards,” Smith said. “That’s very obvious. Way too many passing yards. It’s team defense. It’s not just the secondary. It’s a combination of the secondary, linebackers and defensive (linemen). We’ve got to make plays on third down. We continue to struggle on third down. It’s a combination of a number of things. But we can not give up, those type of yards in the passing game and expect to have the success that we want to have.”
Domenik Hixon pulls away from the Falcons secondary. (Associated Press)
The Falcons have been beaten by Tom Brady (277 yards passing), Tony Romo (311), Drew Brees (308), Jake Delhomme (195) and Eli Manning (a career-high 384). (Brady, Delhomme and Manning have started in Super Bowls).
The Falcons have beaten Chad Pennington, Delhomme, Shaun Hill, Jay Cutler and Jason Campbell.
If this “good quarterback” theory holds up, the Falcons will be in trouble against Philadelphia’s Donovan McNabb and Brees and the Saints. They should be OK against Josh Freeman (twice), Mark Sanchez and Ryan Fitzpatrick. If this hold up, the Falcons are headed for a 9-7 record which would snap the 44-year curse. However, that will not likely get them into the playoffs.
THE SECONDARY WOES: The secondary was exposed in the preseason by Philip Rivers and more importantly by Baltimore reserve John Beck.
The Falcons signed Brian Williams, but he suffered a knee injury and is on injured reserve. They traded for former first round pick Tye Hill, who received a shot, but got a quick hook against Carolina last week and did not even grace the field against the New York Giants.
The Falcons had opportunities to address the problem.
- They could have signed Domonique Foxworth. He was the team’s best corner last season. They elected not to over pay for his services. Maybe over pay was the move to make.
- They could have drafted Vontae Davis in the first round with the 24th pick. He went on the next pick to Miami at 25 after the Falcons selected Peria Jerry.
- They could have signed Ty Law. The five-time Pro Bowler was signed by Denver on Nov. 7.
- They could have signed Chris McAlister. He was signed by the Saints last week and was inactive on Sunday.
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) comes down with pass for a first down as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Chris Houston (23) defends in the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
ABRAHAM SPEAKS UP: Defensive end John Abraham has not had a full sack since the San Francisco game in Week Four. He has just 3.5 sacks after racking up a franchise record 16.5 last season.
He had a quarterback hit against Eli.
“The D-line has to do a better job of getting (Manning) down,” Abraham said. “The pressure was good, but we weren’t getting him down. If we get him down, you don’t have to worry about that stuff (the passing yards).
Q & A WITH BRENT GRIMES
Q: How can you all tighten things up in the secondary?
A: “Just do the fundamentals. Do our techniques and make plays when we have the opportunity.”
BAKER PLAYED STRONG: Left tackle Sam Baker returned to the lineup and appeared to have a strong game.
“It was not the outcome that we wanted,” Baker said. “We fought hard until the end. It’s just frustrating right now, but I came out OK.”
The offense was proud of how they rallied in the second half.
“It’s huge,” Baker said. “We had a chance to show some character at the end, just to get back in the game and put ourselves in position to win it, was huge for us.”
COIN TOSS BLUES: Matt Ryan called tails in overtime. The ref dropped the coin, picked it up and then flipped. Ryan didn’t now if it was tails on the drop.
“If we would have got that ball, things would have been different,” Tight end Tony Gonzalez said. “That’s the way the luck strikes. You have to give them credit. They took the ball, which you would think that . . . the team that gets that coin toss gets the ball and they usually win. That’s what happened.”
Ryan was not kicking himself for not calling heads.
“Those are the rules,” Ryan said. “You can’t be frustrated with the system.”
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196 comments Add your comment
TB
November 23rd, 2009
1:45 am
I guess I’m supposed to announce FIRST, maybe! OK, Good article. Exactly on point. The secondary has played very poorly. If you look at how the defense played in the first 2 games of the season and compare that to how it is playing now, it is the difference of night and day. Also, the defense tends to make plays at home that it doesn’t on the road. For whatever reason, huge mistakes are made on the road against the NFL’s best teams. The problem is obviously focusing on fundamentals when going on the road. I really don’t know why. Though it will be interesting to test the “Good QB oppostion” theory with McNabb and Brees since those will be the best visiting QBs we face all season at the dome. I suspect the D-Line and cornerbacks will play better in the dome as will the offense. They do remind me of some of the teams Jim Mora coached here a few years ago. Blow out some opponents one week and look lost the next week. I know we have better players and coaches now. It is a head scratcher. I agree that we most likely will get to the 9-7 record and get back to back winning seasons. The playoff idea right now is really out of reach this season. I’m a long time season ticket holder and will cheer them on loudly no matter what, but Wildcard berths are for teams that stand the best chance of winning against the toughest teams on the road. Right now, we are far from that. We would have to make huge strides on both strides of the ball on a consistent basis from where we are now to qualify as a team that has a shot of winning those tough road games. Otherwise, it would be really embarrassing, more than we have seen now. That is why the NFL is set up to advance the toughest teams. We are not that right now. Makes you wonder though. They could have paid Foxworth, Jason Elam’s money and just used a rookie kicker (that would have been the best solution). The sad fact is, this year’s draft has shown no results this year. 1st 2 picks are lost for the year. Picks 3 and 4 were taken to boost our cornerback postition. Pick 3 has yet to play corner and pick 4 is with Jacksonville. This draft is, so far this season, the opposite in productivity to last year’s. I do think right now it is obvious that some players that have not shown enough growth (C. Houston, M. Jenkins) probably won’t be here next year. Hopefully Elam won’t be here going into this week. Also noticable are a true lack of defensive leaders. Brooking and Milloy may have been getting older and slower, but they helped get the guys going and focused. I saw Mike Peterson in that role on the sideline today. Defense to me is just really young and looking for leadership and direction. Mike Peterson takes on that role, but we need more leaders.
Trainwreck
November 23rd, 2009
2:03 am
Really disappointing loss… watching other teams constantly convert 3rd downs with seemingly no importance on the distance makes my stomach turn… I just want to see us stop someone
Todd De Jong (@ATL_Todd)
November 23rd, 2009
2:04 am
I was using the “great quarterback” theory to comfort myself after the Falcons’ first 3 losses. If you told Mike Smith pre-season that he would be sitting at 7-3 with only road losses to only the Brady’s Patriots, Romo’s Cowboys, and Brees’ Saints I think he would have taken it in a heartbeat! But last week the Falcons defense made Jake Delhomme look like he did in 2003 and this week they made Eli Manning look like Peyton, so instead the Falcons are at 5-5 you had to downgrade your theory to include the “great or above average” quarterback. It is still a good theory, but there are others.
Another theory is that with the exception of the surprise blowout of San Francisco, this team simply cannot win on the road. In the first 4 weeks, San Francisco’s defense under Mike Singletary appeared much improved after wins over the Cardinals, Seahawks, a 3 point loss to the Vikings, and a 35-0 shutout of the Rams. Falcons had the early Week 4 bye week and to the surprise of pretty much everyone came in and DESTROYED the 49ers defense. They had an extra week to prepare and they were ready.
That leads to another theory – the luck of the draw gave the Falcons the first Bye in Week 4 when the team was relatively healthy. Then, over the past 6 games they have played 4 against opponents coming off their Bye week (much like the 49ers experienced from the Falcons). Also, Turner, Norwood, and others have been injured and missed time and nobody has had time off to recover since Oct. 4.
You touched on the final theory – there are multiple things going wrong at once and it doesn’t all fall on the secondary. As you noted the D-Line has to get more pressure on the quarterbacks so they don’t have all day to find an open receiver. The offense has to sustain longer drives and keep the defense off the field. Jason Elam needs to do better than 66% or the Falcons need to get a new kicker. Matt Ryan needs to break out of his “sophomore slump.” He showed signs of doing so during the fourth quarter so hopefully he can ride the positive momentum and turn it into a huge confidence-boosting game against Tampa Bay next week.
I do not believe the Falcons will run the table, but I do believe that they should beat the Bucs (twice), Jets, and Bills, and have the ability to “steal” one from either great quarterback McNabb or Brees because they will be at HOME, their opponent won’t be coming off a BYE, and Mike Smith and the coaching staff will address the multiple failures of the team and not just blame the secondary.
Elam's Right Leg
November 23rd, 2009
2:07 am
Was there a game today? Why didn’t anyone tell me!!!
TB
November 23rd, 2009
2:14 am
That is FUNNY “Elam’s Leg”!
NY Falcon
November 23rd, 2009
5:09 am
Good point, TB – this year’s draft class has done nothing. Those first two picks were just thrown away. Players with injury history in college usually do not shake those problems when they come to the NFL.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
November 23rd, 2009
5:50 am
Up early with y’all. Got about an hour and half of sleep. Had to drive from Newark to LaGuardia and now waiting to board.
TB: Excellent take. You picked up on the good to above average grading of the opponents. The road thing appears to be real. The one thing they did different for San Francisco was they left a day early. They went out on Friday. Maybe they need to go early to all of the road games.
TODD: Just read the New York Post. Eli was talking about recognizing that Grimes was in man coverage on Manningham. Perhaps the Falcons should scrap the man coverages, you know since they are not working out so well. Just go Cover-Two and keep the ball in front of you, go up and make the tackle. It’s boring, but might be the best way for them to roll.
ELAM’S LEG: Yes there was a game. Where were you? Why does the guy dressed like you stared down the holder after every miss? Kind of like Tiger blaming his caddy for pushing one his drives into the gallery.
TB and NY FALCON: Yes, it’s about time to do a 2008 draft contribution (not much) story. What does that say about Christopher Owens if he can get on the field in what I’m sure is going to be the 31st or 32nd rated pass defense after Monday night’s game.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
November 23rd, 2009
5:55 am
Zone 5 called. Heading back to the ATL!!!!
RedKneckerson
November 23rd, 2009
6:25 am
McNabb in the same breath as very good/great QB’s? You are being kind.McNabb is average at best.The Eagles are average at best. But hey they have tough fans, and they have the toughest media in sports.Yea, that will get you a few wins.
JOE THE BLOGGER
November 23rd, 2009
6:31 am
We all saw this coming after the pre-season game against the Chargers… the defense is three new starters away from being top notch… that is a significant talent shortage.
TheAntiMe
November 23rd, 2009
6:53 am
No matter what anyone says, the fact remains that the Falcons defense sports the most reliable secondary in the NFL. Any and every week, opposing teams can rely on Mr. Grimes, Mr. Houston, and company to surrender 300 yards (and often times more) to their offense, without fail.
If that’s not reliability, I don’t know what is.
Gamer
November 23rd, 2009
7:23 am
At the unveiling of the Falcons’ 2009 schedule, I’d penciled this Giant game as a lost. So I am not surprise by Giants victory. Especially with G-men coming off a bye week and desperately needing a win.
Eli played with alot of energy and muster on his passes.
I thought Ryan settled down in second half to match Eli’s energy level nearly quarterbacking the Falcons to victory.
Hopefully, Ryan and his receivers can build upon the newly found connection on deep balls.
What’s wrong with Jenkins missing catchable passes?
Corey Webster got away with several illegal bumps and holds on Roddy.
DB’S coach need to drill and grill Houston for not turning his head to locate the ball causing silly penalties by plowing into receivers. Most of the times the receivers probably won’t make the catches because of where the balls are placed.
Snelling performed fairly well, but we definitely miss Turner the Burner.
Falcons can still go 10-6, maybe enough wins to make postseason.
Alan
November 23rd, 2009
7:40 am
I am a dedicated Falcon fan always have been and always will be but I have a few questions.
#1-Is there a coaching problem on defense or is a player problem by not understanding and executing the defensive calls.
#2-Smitty says that the defense as a hole is responsible, how is it that during the game all facets of the defense screws up and yet are not held accountable for their group assignments. Where is the leadership and why arn’t we showing improvement as the season gos along, insterad we get worse.
#3-Yes we are young but we have veteran leadership in each group, Abraham, Peterson and Coleman – Something is wrong as they are not showing the leadership that you would expect.
#4-What the hell is going on with Elam, the fiels goals that he has missed the last two weeks probably cost us the games, where did the pre-snap jitters come from
I could go on, we are not executing like we did last year and the way we are playing we are not showing improvement over the season, I know that the schedule is more difficult (teams and bye weeks) but do we really have to look so bad losing.
Gamer
November 23rd, 2009
7:49 am
With Grimes atheleticism, why not try him at FREE-SAFETY?
cdog
November 23rd, 2009
8:06 am
the falcons don’t care about winning. they should just mail in the season. if they cared they would take pride in themselves and do something about it. the bottom line is they are terrible. their secondary couldn’t start for the vanderbilt secondary.jason elam has no concern with getting better. most of them is more worried about a paycheck than winning. thats wasted money on their players.
Samuel
November 23rd, 2009
8:06 am
We don’t have a good defense period,we can’t stop anyone when we have to.Yeah coach Smith doesn’t want to single out any portion of the defense. But sometimes the d-line plays well, as I look back from the last ten games never has the secondary particularly the cornerbacks played well. We are not going to the superbowl or get deep in the playoffs, with Cris Houston, Tye Hill or Brent grimes. Although I think grimes is the most athletic of the three. Their are no teams that fear our defense, there are such things as cover sacks, but it won’t come from our corners. I give coach Smith a C+ this year for coaching, Dimitroff a D for some of these sorry draft picks and free agents. I think the offense will get better, but with a young quarterback we better fix this defensive problem. Harry Douglas,Peria, and Brian williams will probally need two years to recover from these injuries. We need a nose tackle, a Slot receiver and a cover cornerback next year.Do we bring back Norwood back, who’s been often injured with two concussions? Or do we draft a speed running back, who can compliment Turner and Snelling? Michael Jenkins saved his but a little after dropping that pass in the endzone. However this guy is not a compliment to Roddy White. We need a one two punch at the wide receiver position. This team is moving in the right direction, minus these glaring defensive problems. It’s time for Jason Elam to go period.
Tony R.
November 23rd, 2009
8:07 am
I agree, the defense as a whole is playing subpar. If you can’t get pressure with your front four then the secondary is going to get picked a part all day. Since our DBs seemingly haven’t been taught–and practice–how to look back for the ball we can’t play man-to-man. That ancient technique of looking at the receiver and waiting for them to show signs the ball is coming has been played out since the 70s. I don’t know about any of you but I am not impressed with Coleman at all. This secondary definitely needs to go cover 2 until we fix our coverage technique or get new DBs in here. We also seem to lack a speedy LB in coverage and a couple of DTs with size and strength to push the OL. I don’t like this trend of the smaller faster DL. There are big dlinemen with speed and power. We better fix our defensive problems if we expect to win the majority of these remaining games. We’re about to see what this team is really made of and how bad they want to take things to the next level.
David
November 23rd, 2009
8:15 am
Bottom Line:
No more excuses, they had broken coverage all day long and all season long and that only points to bad coaching.
Don’t be surprise if you see the Falcon’s Defensive Coordinator fired before the end of the season.
This is the worst defense I have ever, and I mean ever seen in my history of watching football both college and pro.
This must be a nightmare for the coaches in the film room after the game. Especially for Coach Smith.
If you really watch the defense throughout the game, you can see mistakes by the players on just about every play.
This time a year you can’t blame it on youth, because they should be improving and they are only getting worse, this is why the defensive coordinator should be FIRED!!!!!
SirReal
November 23rd, 2009
8:20 am
Well, the preseason secondary has shown up again. Give credit to the run defense. They had a solid day. The secondary is just trash on both sides…Why do they feel like Houston is stable at RCB? This is his third year and he still doesn’t know how to get his head around in coverage! Isnt that a BASIC fundamental of a CB? Either caoching isnt working or these guys are just trash. Fans, we gotta ask ourselves one question here. Even if we do make it to the playoffs as a wild card….we have to face ELITE QBs!! How far do you really see us going with our swiss cheese secondary? Seriously…..
The Real Falcon
November 23rd, 2009
8:24 am
Not certain what OL play you saw but they were terrible all day. Baker was completely turned around by the DE. He looked like a top. On several plays the Giants only rushed 4 players against our 5 OL plus a RB and still got a sack. Atheletic DL’s eat our OL’s lunch. Meanwhile the Giants OL gave Manning plenty of time to dissect our secondary.
gt 97
November 23rd, 2009
8:26 am
The defense is what it is! A couple of missed opportunities in the red zone on offense, and the Giants have the game. I rather lose a game like this than the one against Carolina. The Carolina game will hurt us in the long run. Defensive Backs are not instinctive enough. Is it coaching or personnel? I don’t know, but next year its needs to be addressed.
IceFan
November 23rd, 2009
8:28 am
Yes, the secondary is awful, but everyone already knew that. We were going to have to put up 30 a game to outscore what the secondary gives up.
The last two losses are on Elam! You could put this one on Jenkins also, for dropping that pass in the endzone. When it comes down to it though, Elam has one job to do and he isn’t doing it. Time to cut him!
NCFalconFan
November 23rd, 2009
8:32 am
Can we let Foxworth go. He was defintely an upgrade of Grimes (who wouldn’t be) but Baltimore’s pass defense is not much better.
Dean
November 23rd, 2009
8:35 am
On the bright side, we did manage to pretty much shut down their run game. I’m disappointed but I’m even sadder that while I was gnashing my teeth 4 families of US troops were getting much worse news than us losing a dam football game. Sorry.
Not so casual observer..
November 23rd, 2009
8:36 am
I am reading all of these post I I have to admit, I am impressed at the way Falcon fans are able to view this team / season as half full instead of the alternative…. 1st This Defense needs more than just better players in the secondary. Bret Grimes is small and would be better served as a nickel corner playing against guys in the slot. The linebackers always seems to get a pass, but not hear.. How many times did the Giants get 1st downs on funs off tackle or passes to Boss over the top of the linebackers. In fact, the only people that is worse in coverage that the Falcons DBs, are the linebackers. And everybody is breathing easier that Matt Ryan had a better second half, and thats fine, except the game last for 60 minutes not 30… His fumble led to a touchdown, Mike Jenkins can’t catch and Tony Gonzales can’t / won’t block. Face it folks… This team is just not that good. I am not sure what you folks are seeing, but this team has to win 4 of 6 ti have back to back winning seasons, and 5 of 6 to make the playoffs…Please someone, anyone.. tell me what do you guys see that makes you think they can do that???
planb
November 23rd, 2009
8:37 am
Elam and Jenkins must go. We have enough problem making points without giving them up by droping balls for touchdowns and missing short fieldgoals.
The secondary can’t cover. Use a different scheme to help them or the losses will continue. Replace them when you can, but try to do it better than you did with the draft. Where are these guys we drafted???? I’ve forgotton their names.
NCFalconFan
November 23rd, 2009
8:37 am
Its time to look at the coaching. Smith talks about having intensity throughout the game, that falls on him and his staff. I know Emmitt Thomas is a Hall of Famer and has done a lot for his organization, but is it time to bring someone else in to coach these players up during the game?
A.B.
November 23rd, 2009
8:39 am
2 or 3 plays that if only Houston turns around, easy interception.Abraham claims the DL put good pressure on Eli most of the day. BS. Most of the game, Eli had enough time to have coffee and a bagle.
planb
November 23rd, 2009
8:43 am
PS – Norwood is another that will not get over his injuries to help the team as he should.
SirReal
November 23rd, 2009
8:44 am
I’m sick of management keeping a KICKER who has DESTROYED the outcome of at LEAST three games this year already. Why are we keeping this guy on the roster and he CONTINUES to miss simple chip shots?!!! You can blame the D if you want for this one ( the secondary is trash and the D-line gets NO pressure. Why have we not gone to Sidbury yet? Cant do any worse than the guys out there now) but if Jenkins doesnt drop a touchdown, and ELAM DOESNT MISS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE US A LEAD/SWING THE MOMENTUM, we pull this one out in NY. Another question to the Falcon nation….do our defensive woes fall on the players, Brain Van Gorder (who needs to go), or Mike Smith, who’s supposed to be a defensive mind himself?
hawesg
November 23rd, 2009
8:47 am
Could’ve drafted Sean Smith instead of William “Glass” Moore.
Scott Case
November 23rd, 2009
8:54 am
Jason Elam should be cut – period. I’d rather see Koenan out there.
hawesg
November 23rd, 2009
9:04 am
I can’t blame Mike Smith for the fact that his CBs are wretched. Houston’s a mediocre #2 who has to be a #1. Think about how much the defense degraded after Williams got hurt. While I completely blame Dimitroff for taking Glass Moore over Sean Smith (gee, why would we need a big CB in a division with Colston and Winslow?), I give him a partial pass on Jerry and Williams.
It was Smith and his staff who finally got something out of Jamaal Anderson by moving him inside. The LB corps has played the run solidly recently. Babineaux’s playing well.
But Abraham got old overnight, Chauncey Davis disappeared and Brian Williams got hurt. That goes more on the GM, whose job it is to provide depth.
That said, Emmitt Thomas should pick out his gold watch.
JeanE
November 23rd, 2009
9:20 am
I was impressed with the Falcons’ grit, I thought the Giants would toast us but they didn’t. I was especially happy to see Matt Ryan stand in the pocket and not get the Happy Feet, very good Matty! Don’t know what’s wrong with Jason Elam, at this point, don’t care. Seriously, Morten Anderson would make that kick. Why can’t Koenen kick Field goals? Brent Grimes is so tough, I love the way that guy plays! I had to laugh when Moose Johnston said in a very PC way that the Falcons’ secondary was having trouble with “coverage concepts”, what an undestatement!!! Chris Houston was exposed time and again as the weakest link in the secondary, how was this guy a 1st round pick? Not signing Foxworth is haunting us as I knew it would! John Abraham is still the missing link, is he hurt or what? And Michael Jenkins is just like Elam: there’s a 50/50 chance he’ll catch something, can’t count in him. Finneran would’ve caught that in the endzone, no doubt of it. I knew as soon as we loss that coin toss, that’s it. Our defense couldn’t stop the pass all day, what would change. Nothing. Good job of shutting down the run but the secondary has to be addressed through free agency in the offseason, I have no confidence in our ability to draft a CB so we have to pay for one. Hope Dimitroff has learned that lesson. Still say we’ll be lucky to finish out with a winning season, forget the playoffs. Can’t even think of that, we’re not that good. Still, keep fighting Falcons. Beat Tampa Bay, I’ll be at that game. Go Birds!
spectator
November 23rd, 2009
9:37 am
Falcons mediocre record is a function of:
1. Elam…terrible kicker who has cost the Falcons two games…what a turkey!
2. Brent Grimes could not start on any good college team..why is he on the Falcon’s roster? Other teams can always throw on him when they need a big gain.
3. Falcons are very average at linebacker; Mike Peterson cannot carry Brooking’s jock. Giants tight end had a nice game, huh? Did you see Peterson trying to catch up after he was beaten by ten yards over and over?
4. Has any D coordinator done a worse job than Van Gorder? I don’t think so.
5. This year’s draft was a complete waste. The Falcons have gotten zero contribution from any of them. Haven’t heard much comment from Wonder boy GM or Mike Smith about this.
The Falcons will have a losing record…the streak goes on.
SirReal
November 23rd, 2009
9:37 am
Yeah I agree hawesg, the GM WHIFFED on this draft. Too many gambles that didnt pay off. I dont know who does our scouting but that must improve. Honestly, I’d be willing to deal our 1st rd pick for a top-tier corner. We’d probably waste it again anyway.
Not so casual observer..
November 23rd, 2009
9:38 am
Hey Falcons fans….. Check this out!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOKOkIf4jrc
A Mouthful of AWESOME !!
November 23rd, 2009
9:52 am
I wonder if Freddie Falcon will commit suicide like UGA did just to NOT have to watch the rest of this season going down the drain.
Matt
November 23rd, 2009
10:10 am
Dear Falcons Secondary: Please, please, please, for the Love of all that is Holy TURN AROUND AND LOOK FOR THE BALL ONCE AND A WHILE!!!. I have never seen a secondary with less “feel” for where and when the ball is coming. I realize they are trying, but the simple fact is that the secondary has been PUTRID all season long.
Confused and Curious
November 23rd, 2009
10:14 am
Hey Not so casual observer…, maybe we can sign Vick to be Turner’s back-up, since his only play of note this year was a RUN (thought QB’s were paid to throw the ball). Also, my 5.8 40 yard dash time could have picked up yards with that hole that opened up. Why don’t you just go post on the Eagle’s blogs since you aren’t really a Falcons fan anyway.
DrJ
November 23rd, 2009
10:31 am
Elam has lost his leg. For several weeks now he has been aiming at the left post, some go the right of it, and some to the left. I don’t this double take he has just before he kicks. He acts like the center is double-centering…but that would be called by the refs. The holds look good. Sooner or later the great ones have to retire, so I guess it is about time.
Something is amiss with coaching. Leaving rushers uncovered, and the Giant’s receivers were wandering around in the secondary like they could go anywhere they wanted: sometimes no DB for 8-10 yds!. Do we have a defensive secondary coach?
Snelling is getting better and better with more reps. He and Ryan were the bright spots for the day.
So with Snelling getting into a grove, when Turner returns, things will really start looking up.
Not so casual observer..
November 23rd, 2009
10:33 am
Confused and Curious
November 23rd, 2009
10:14 am
Hey C & C,
I am not fan of The Eagles or Vick, But I do take great joy in teasing Falcons fans. The falcons lost a game that they should have won, and we have folks on this blog selling the we looked good game….In case they do not know, this is the NFL not the BCS!!! Looking good does not matter only wins and losses. I posted the Vick clip beacuse that is the easiest way to get Falcons fans to be honest about something. Vick was not a Top shelf passer, and I don’t think he ever will be, and I understand why folks would call him out on that, but my question is remains, Why can these “fans” be so hard on Vick but so soft on Ryan and the Falcons coaching staff???
An Observation
November 23rd, 2009
10:33 am
If I was a team getting ready to play the Falcons, the only thing that I’d focus on is throwing the ball downfield via pass plays knowing that the Falcons’ CBs can’t stop any team that they have faced this year.
Why even try running plays when you can simply pass all day long.
N C
November 23rd, 2009
10:34 am
I would have liked to see the Falcons go for the 2 points at the end. I’d rather lose the game that way than leave it to a defense that couldn’t stop anybody. The game was over after the overtime coin toss. Why doesn’t the secondary even try to look for the ball? That can’t be blamed on the coaching. These people have been playing for years and even the pee wee’s know to look for the ball on a pass play. So much for the “youth” movement…
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
10:34 am
If not for Elam & the injurys(Turner, Norwood, Douglas, Peria, Moore, Williams) we win a few of these games but Abraham is stealing money, at 3.5 sacks after 10 games what are we paying him, 2 million per sack??? The dude had 1 freakin tackle & no sacks again, Defend the Dome??? You should forfeit your game check or donate it to your church, your a theif without a mask! Pitiful all talk & no walk, as for the secondary all we have right now is Coleman & Decoud thats it end of story the rest need to go, even without the injurys we would have to outscore everyone to win cause we dont have any playmakers on defense, 3.5 sacks??? Jared Allen with the Vikings gets that in 1 game, Abraham you need to wake the Hell up!
Falconsforlife
November 23rd, 2009
10:49 am
Come on, one nice run by Vick into a GIGANTIC hole and he’s back? Seriously? Philly is barely using him and when he has to pass it’s almost embarrassing how bad he performs.
I’m disgusted by the secondary, but I think we all knew this is what would happen once Williams went down. There is no depth of talent in the secondary. That absolutely must be addressed going into next year. Hopefully TD won’t rely on coaching up a secondary full of 3rd and 4th stringers expecting them to perform at 1st and 2nd corner levels.
Confused and Curious
November 23rd, 2009
10:59 am
Not So Casual, my fault. I am also a UGA fan, so I had a very frustrating weekend! I agree, we should be a little harder on Ryan, but I was also pretty soft on Vick’s shortcomings his first few years. I do feel that Ryan played well enough to win, especially if Jenkins catches that TD instead of the FG. Hope your team(s) did well this weekend and good job on getting this Falcon fan going!
Not so casual observer..
November 23rd, 2009
11:00 am
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
10:34 am
Effective right now, Falcons fans can no longer use the injuries, or missed field gaols, or the schedule or whatever. Last year the Birds played the against the worst combined schedule in the league. Falcons fan need to gt over it. You either beat the teams in front of you regardless of injuries ( Colts have lost enitre secondary this season) or schedule ( Saints play the same treams as the Falcons).
Real American
November 23rd, 2009
11:01 am
Wow……a “moral victory”…LOL
Real American
November 23rd, 2009
11:06 am
This “we play a hard schedule” is such a loser’s mentality! LOL! If you’re a good team, your schedule DOESN’T MATTER. It doesn’t matter if the Falcons had to play the Colts, Steelers, Pats and Vikings 4 weeks in a row after their bye! If you can’t hang with the big boys then get off the field. So now the Falcons fans want a lighter schedule afforded to them so they can PRETEND to be good? LMAO
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
11:24 am
Not So, ever heard of spellcheck??? LMAO Its not called excuses, its reality, you cannot expect to lose one of the best backs in the league & was on pace to gain 200 last week & lose his backup & not have it affect your team, how about Vikings lose Petersen & lose his backup & lets see what the Vikings do??? The Burner was on a major roll when he went down, & with him on the field it keeps our sorry defense on the sidelines LOL!
Mike is back
November 23rd, 2009
11:24 am
I too was very disappointed we lost…but I was proud of the way they fought back. I endured four years of suffering through the Hawks rebuilding…so I think the Birds deserve some time too. People hate to hear the word patience…especially when you go 11-3 the previous year…but the Falcon is still very much a work in process.
Management has done a terrific job thus far. Without knowing the cap implication and DMs future draft plans…it hard to fully understand why Foxworthy wasn’t retained. I know some season tickets holder I spoke with…felt like the price tag was too high for Foxworthy. However, no way can you go with Huston and Grimes…when you don’t have a fierce pass rush. Hopefully, this experiment will be over after this season. lol
Therefore, I agree Coach Smith to a curtain degree…it was more than just the corners…of course that is being kind…he stands by his guys…Van Gorder deserves some of the blame too…they was having success when they kept blitzing Manning in the third quarter…when they stop blitzing Manning those guys was easy target.
One thing for sure…I think everyone will agree…once everyone new Huston and Grimes was going to be the starting corners…we were all praying for quarterback sacks. Heh heh
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
tidog
November 23rd, 2009
11:37 am
The serious wildcard contenders ATL NY PHI GB. GB may have the most favorable schedule. ATL NY PHI anything can happen with their last 6 opponents. No one has a cake walk down the stretch.
Not so casual observer..
November 23rd, 2009
11:41 am
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
11:24 am
Stop complaining!!! The falcons beat San fran without Frank Gore, and they did not complain. The Colts have lost ALL FOUR of their starting DB’s. The steelers Lost Willie Parker, Hell, last year, N.E lost TOM BRADY and still won 11 games. Injuries are a part of the game. I idon’t care what Turners pace was, If he / they did not do it, then it does not count! Either you win or you don’t!!
sam
November 23rd, 2009
11:46 am
Ok, there’s no reason why our DBs can play better. Name one starter on the Colts secondary. yet, they play smart and solid D. I blame the coaches, esp the Def Cord BVG. A great coach finds ways to bring out the best in his players. We seriously need to re-evaluate our coaching staff after the season.
Jenkins needs to get cut right now. He’s fat and happy with his new contract. he has no motivation to work on his dropped passes. Look at the Colts again. They have Garcon and Collie (no name receivers coming out of college) and they’re still winning. You wanna know why? cuz, they’re hungry and want to get better! Yes, having Peyton helps a lot but Ryan needs to get on his receivers about dropped passes. Demand the best in everyone.
T.C
November 23rd, 2009
11:47 am
I can’t believe some of you people don’t believe the falcons lost.No defense no problem for who ever they play.New coach same results.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 23rd, 2009
11:49 am
IRONY CHECK:
- Falcons made the CHOKE the “New Face” Franchise qb
- Falcons cut Vick
- Eagles sign Vick
- Falcons struggling
- Eagles in driving seat both division & wildcard in sight
- Falcons vs Eagles to determine Falcons season
Just think of the irony. That run by Vick of 35 yards was so fast, I didn’t think it was even 35 yards until the announcers stated it.
The Eagles have handled Vick just right, easing him along, letting him get his legs back. Last night showed his legs are 90 percent back and in 2 weeks, they will be just where he wants to be.
Remember the Minnesota game in 2002?
Remember the Carolina game in 2004?
Interesting Irony……………..
The biggest Irony perhaps will be when he enters the game in the dome, and gets a standing ovation.
Who wants to bet that Andy Reid has promised Vick that he will give him a high dose of plays, because Reid understands how Vick was handled when he played here and the way he was cut.
It’s going to be very interesting…………….
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
11:52 am
Not So , get off this blog & go work on getting your GED, sorry you didnt make it through High school, you shouln’t blog if you cant spell, look at your 11:00 post LMAO You go to the Mike Vick school of dummies??? This blog is for Falcon fans, not haters! Get your sorry azz in church, it might help you with your hatred issues. God Bless the Falcons, we’re going to the Playoffs! Yes 10 wins baby watch & see & then dont come runnin to jump on the bandwagon! We will beat the Eagles, bet the house on it!
Wink
November 23rd, 2009
12:08 pm
The secondary coverage stinks for a few reasons, but the major reason none of them look back for the ball. NONE OF THEM. How can you bat away or intercept a ball if you don’t turn they D@MN HEAD AROUND TO SEE THE BALL!!
Who ever is incharge of teaching coverage techniques needs to be repremanded; these guys are not seeing the ball.
On one play our corner turned his head around & at the same time the receiver was catching the ball as he was looking around. That slow mo commercial with Houston chasing Steve Smith is the perfect example of how our corners play. If we have to play these small players in the secondary then our cover skills have to exceptional or we will continue to get the torching that we see week to week.
Not so casual observer..
November 23rd, 2009
12:21 pm
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
11:52 am
You are wayyyyyy Funny!!! So this is what Falcons fans do…They start off talking Football, but when you beat them up with the facts, they resort to name calling and tossing insults. OK try this on for size..The Falcons are still a 5-5 team. They will not win 5 of the last 6 games. the will not make the playoffs. You can lower yourself to insults as much as you like, the facts are not going to change. If you like, I will spring for tickets so that you can see the Falcons play in person and not have to watch them from outside the window at Applebees.
Go birds….LOL
willie
November 23rd, 2009
12:23 pm
With our terrible secondary, the only hope is to get consistent pressure. That is not an easy thing to do. Something is clearly wrong with Abraham. You can’t go from a complete beast to invisible in one season. He must not be 100%. He better get that way soon, though! Why is Sidbury not getting some chances on passing downs?
Pete
November 23rd, 2009
12:51 pm
So is it a surprise that the Falcon secondary is approx. NCAA Div. II level ??
It’s been that way for 42+ years !!!
Some things NEVER change.
Marcos
November 23rd, 2009
1:01 pm
THIS IS UGLY OUR SECONDARY CANT HOLD EVEN A COLLEGE FOOTBAL TEAM EACH AND EVERY THIRD DOWN THEY CONVERT 3 AND 12 3 AND 20 3 AND 45 3 AND 56 THERE IS NO WAY WE CAN GET IN THE PLAYOFFS PLAYING LIKE THIS SOME HEADS NEEDS TO ROLL,CHOIRS HOUSTON BRENT GRIMES ALWAYS 2 OR 3 STEPS AWAY FROM MAKING THE PLAY THATS JUST UGLY AND POOR COACHING
Marcos
November 23rd, 2009
1:05 pm
THE SECONDARY DONT DO A THING WONT TACKLE WONT COVER DONT DO ANYTHING ITS JUST TOO DEPRESE T WATCH THEM I DONT EVEN WANNA KNOW WHAT D JACKSON ND MACLIN ARE GOING TO DO TO US ITS SO SAD WE REALLY HAD A CHANCE MATT PLAY LIKE PAYTON
Falconspower
November 23rd, 2009
1:05 pm
The Falcons are a mess. I did not think this team would disintegrate into what it now is before the preseason started. I knew the defense was going to be a work in progress, but I agree with many of the previous comments that it is not getting better as the season goes along, but instead is getting worse. I do not think any of our corner backs could make any of the other 31 teams’ practice squads.
Our offense, with the addition of Tony Gonzalez, was called the “pick your poison” offense. It has been anything but that. Last year we were able to easily push the ball down the field to our receivers. This year we look like we have reverted back to coach Latrino’s ineffective check down passing game. Our run game was anemic until Michael Turner suddenly woke up after watching Jason Snelling in the Dallas game. Matt Ryan has made too many poor critical game time decisions prior to the Giants game.
Our special teams are not as good as last years teams. The kicking game is degraded, and the coverage teams are giving up more return yards.
The 2009 draft class:
1. Peria Jerry, DT. Now on IR. He played okay before the injury.
2. William Moore, S. Now on IR. He managed to play on a couple of special teams plays.
3, Christopher Owens, CB. A punt coverage team gunner.
4. Lawrence Sidbury, DE. He has played, maybe 10 snaps as a DE, all the rest of his playing time is on special teams. He looks tentative and slow when he plays DE.
5A. William Middleton, CB. Cut, now a Jacksonville Jaguar.
5B. Garrett Reynolds, OT. Inactive for every game.
6. Spencer Adkins, LB. Inactive for every game, Supposedly runs a 4.3 40 with a 246 pound body. I think someone that big and that fast should be on the field, if for no other purpose than to rush the passer, ON OBVIOUS PASSING DOWNS! No one else is scaring the opposing offensive lines or QBs.
7. Vance Walker, DT. Cut, signed to practice squad, signed to the active roster when Peria Jerry got hurt, inactive for several games, activated and played in the D-line rotation the last several games. He has played well. He is the most significant contributor to the team from the 2009 draft class.
Free Agents:
Mike Peterson, LB. He has played well, but his weakness is in pass coverage as he lacks the speed and quickness to do it.
Brian Williams, CB. He played well until his ACL injury, now on IR.
Thomas Johnson, DT. He has played better since Coach Smith almost made him cry on the sideline during the Patriots game.
All others are back-ups.
Trades:
Tony Gonzalez, TE. I am not sure if he addition to the team has helped. We are more of a check down passing team this year than we are any other kind of passing team. Wide receiver production is significantly down this year.
Tye Hill, CB. He does not appear to be compatible with the defensive scheme, if we have one other than allowing opposing teams to play pitch and catch at will.
We are 5 and 5 with six games left. we have lost 4 of our last 5. In order to finally have back to back winning seasons we have to win 4 of our last 6. At this point I do not see us ending this miserable streak. I am not saying we can’t end the streak, but I am saying something significant will have to happen. All aspects of the team will have to significantly improve now and for the rest of the season, or the streak continues.
wayne
November 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
If Elam was playing for Bill Parcells he would not have a job today. His best days seems to be gone. Hell maybe we need to bring Morten Anderson out of retirement for the rest of the season. I’m not going to even bring up the secondary.
Mike Jenkins
November 23rd, 2009
1:26 pm
Peter King mentioned me in his MMQB!!!! Oh wait…
“Michael Jenkins would have been the Goat of the Week were it not for Hank Poteat tackling Calvin Johnson in the end zone in Detroit. Jenkins dropped a perfect pass in the end zone from Matt Ryan that likely would have won the game for Atlanta at the Giants.”
Deborah Hall
November 23rd, 2009
1:38 pm
To all the hater’s and nasty comment maker’s, you need to get a life and read some of the stuff you write. You single out the player’s and talk bad about them, I don’t like seeing them lose and I have my opinions about what should be done, but I believe you hurt people more by talking badly about them. If you don’t have something good to say, don’t say a thing. Do you think they feel good about this and most players beat themselves up, they don’t need so called fans doing it for them. Have a Blessed Day
D. Orlando Ledbetter
November 23rd, 2009
1:46 pm
Made it to the Branch!!! Open locker room was rather somber. Coach Smith speaking at 3 p.m. Send along some questions. EXAMPLE: GOOD QUESTION — What’s happened to John Abraham? BAD QUESTION — Why don’t you fire Jason Elam?
rms
November 23rd, 2009
1:58 pm
Here’s a question? Why is our offense so simple and predictable. The opponents receivers have no trouble getting open but our receivers cant seem to get open. Try throwing the ball deep or run some screens or something?
CMC
November 23rd, 2009
2:15 pm
How long before we get a REAL kicker??? How long before the players on defense actually DEFEND, ie.. make more interceptions, bat down balls, stop opposing WR’s BEFORE they make first downs, sack quarerbacks??? How long before WR’s start making spectacular or even regular catches??? How long will we make every other QB look like a “Hall of Famer”, no matter how terrible they play??? How long will the Falcons be the team that allows the opposing teams to break their losing streaks by beating us, set team or league records by torching us, just feel better about themselves after playing us??? HOW LONG?!!!
Screg
November 23rd, 2009
2:21 pm
we need to bring in chris mcallister
Sen. Paul Simon
November 23rd, 2009
2:36 pm
This is what blogs would have looked like circa 1932, when bow ties were HOT!
Gamer
November 23rd, 2009
2:40 pm
Next year’s draft must include two potential starting CB’S who stands at least 6ft. tall with hitting ability!!!
Our current DB’S can spell substitution but clearly they are not starting CB’S.
With Grimes atheleticism, he should get a crack at FREE-SAFETY.
Maybe Ryan and his receivers have found a passing continuity.
The line-backers need to re-establish their stout presence in the running game.
Jerious Norwood need to man up and play football, hurt!! He can’t wait until the season is over!!!
Snelling played fairly well.
Falcons can still go 10-6, maybe enough wins for post season action.
DrJ
November 23rd, 2009
2:43 pm
I wouldn’t want to hurt any of their feelings, but Jenkins and Abraham need to be jacked up. As far as Elam goes, I will be very quiet so I won’t disturb his concentration.
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
2:46 pm
I’ve been observing Abraham’s technique on his pass rush this year and I think I’m beginning to understand how O-lineman are getting the best of him. He routinely tries to undercut his opponent while slanting towards the quarterback, leaving his upper body unbalanced and away from his leg drive. It looks like O-lineman are driving down on his torso, consequently, taking him down to the turf rather easily. Has anybody else noticed this?
MARTIN
November 23rd, 2009
2:48 pm
The saints are getting stronger in the secondary. They signed chris mcallister last week, and resigned mike mckenzie to the secondary today, due to injuries in their defensive back field. Another shut down cornerback. Seems like the falcons could use those guys with that poor secondary they have.
MV8
November 23rd, 2009
2:51 pm
Not So 12:21……. the will not make the playoffs??? Who is the? LMAO Dumb azz donkey! Save your money, I know you cant afford it with no GED, have a nice Turkey Day at your local neighborhood Applebees with your Falcons money , obviously you must hang there since it popped in your weak mind, I’ll be at The Palm! We’ll be on a 2 game win streak after the Eagles game when the Saints come marching in, might win that one too they barely escaped from us in the Big Easy! Go Falcons!!! Matty Ice! The Burner Turner! Tony Gone zalez! I knew you’d be looking for my response! LOL
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
3:06 pm
I understand Smitty’s ‘team defense’ concept. However, playmakers consistently anticipate what’s coming based on the opposition’s tendencies. The only advantage a defense has is it’s ability to react quickly and decisively to the development of the offensive play. We don’t have the playmakers we need in both the defensive line and secondary. Our linebacker play has been our best defensive asset, but it’s not enough against better offensive teams.
PMC
November 23rd, 2009
3:07 pm
So the question is why the heck didn’t they address the secondary?
It has to be that Dimitroff likes this years class better honestly.
MV6
November 23rd, 2009
3:14 pm
Why do the Saints keep adding to their secondary while we do nuttin??? Grimes is a Crimes, & Hello Houston we have a problem??? No pass rush + no cornerbacks = no defense, simple football, the only players we have on defense are Lofton, Coleman, & wait………. thats all folks!
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
3:15 pm
From a defensive line standpoint, the loss of Peria Jerry hurt. We don’t have an interior lineman other than Babineaux who can force pressure inside and make a quarterback turn into the outside pass rush. Couple that with the lack of production on the outside, other than the occasional flash from Bierman, and that gives an opposing quarterback the extra time in the pocket to make plays downfield. With that extra time, a receiver can challenge our secondary since our cornerbacks and safeties are not the fastest or the biggest, and accumulate large chunks of yardage.
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
3:26 pm
Honorable mention should go to Thomas DeCoud as he has been a pleasant surprise in an otherwise dismal secondary. As with any draft, potential is quickly outweighed by reality. We had a potentially sufficient draft with our defensive selections this year. However, the current reality is (at least this year) there were no impact players that developed from this crop.
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
3:27 pm
ok all the falcons went through that game missed field goals,bad coverage,no running game,dropped TD….. I think Overtime just isnt the answer to good games,atleast not the nfl’s way i say we put 10 mins on the clock n just make it n extended quarter so it nt all 1st one to score crap its more like the better team will show up n win…
Marques
November 23rd, 2009
3:32 pm
ok all the falcons went through that game missed field goals,bad coverage,no running game,dropped TD….. I think Overtime just isnt the answer to good games,atleast not the nfl’s way i say we put 10 mins on the clock n just make it n extended quarter so it nt all 1st one to score crap its more like the better team will show up n win…n i agree with Ronald with the trades i also like tradin jenkins because harry douglas easly would of started over jenkins n we just need some ball hogs on owr defense it just looks like no one wants it!
Marques
November 23rd, 2009
3:33 pm
o n I heard Elam missed the plane, Jenkins dropped his luggage, and Houston interfered with takeoff. They was stuck in New York.
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
3:34 pm
Overtime:
That question about changing the overtime regulations actually came up in the NFL’s winter meetings. Unfortunately, status quo prevailed. Apparently, the argument is over player safety and the current NFLPA agreement. If an extra period were to be implemented, there is a fear of more injuries as a result of player fatigue and lack of compensation for the extra time. But I agree with you: it’s a shame that the odds of winning a tie game at the end of regulation so heavily favors the team that can guess the coin toss correctly.
MV6
November 23rd, 2009
3:37 pm
EJ I agree, DeCoud has been a pleasant surprise, Petersen has been a little disappointing, Jamal has been a major #1 bust, & Abraham who knows he has just disapppeared maybe hes hurt, drafting for defense was smart who knew they would go down with injurys but still should have added a few vets in the mix, all we added was Petersen, should have added another cornerback & lineman, our D is killing us just like we knew it would, long time problem still the same, we need a nasty D like the Ravens had for so long, ours is just soft!
David
November 23rd, 2009
3:38 pm
“Is there a worse defense than the Falcons”
“Is there a worse defense than the Falcons”
“Is there a worse defense than the Falcons”
“Is there a worse defense than the Falcons”
“Is there a worse defense than the Falcons”
“Is there a worse defense than the Falcons”
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
3:45 pm
EJtheDJ:
thats tru but can somebody tell me why our Atlanta Falcons let all them freaken free agents like Brian Dawkins, Tye Law and Chris McAlister go to other teams. When they seen in the per-season, that we were going to need help in the secondary. We don’t even have a number three CB, hell all the ones we got are fourth string at best. If Matt Ryan is not giving the game away,(because he is not stepping into his throws) the secondary is(by not finding the ball when it is in the air). Somebody tell me something. Mike Smith we have to stop talking about getting better and do it. You said you was going to put the best players on the field, will it is not hard to see that we do not have the best players on the field. Coach you need to fix it and fix it soon. The season we thought we were going to have is rapitly going up in smoke.
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
3:45 pm
MV6:
You bring up a good case in point with the Ravens. But even their D has been off this year too as a result of some significant losses, notably Haloti Ngata (injury), Bart Scott (free agency), and Samari Rolle (IR), and all playmakers. We have a few bright spots on the defensive side of the ball, but nothing like the ‘good’ teams.
Backhand64
November 23rd, 2009
3:47 pm
I saw the corner backs with great coverage but their heads not turned toward the ball. They have played like that all season. There have been times when they were clearly beaten, but for the most part if they turned to find the ball, they would have more INT’s and passes broken up. Anyone agree?
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
3:50 pm
Backhand64
i agree but how in the hell did we draft/sign these players w/o simple fundamentals…. it has to be a coaching problem somewhere because nt just one corner did it yesterday/all year the all have been
planb
November 23rd, 2009
3:51 pm
DOL
Why is asking why Elam isn’t fired, a bad question. Possibly 7-3 instead of 5-5.
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
3:56 pm
cause he doesnt want to but elam on the spot its nt all of elams fault him n the holder r havin problems with the snap so basically if u release elam u have to release on on the best punters in the nfl
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
3:56 pm
Backhad64:
What bothers me even more that that (and that bothers me a lot!) is that at the snap, our CB’s are routinely playing 5-8 yards off the receiver from the line of scrimmage. Even with that cushion, receivers are running right by these corners so that they’re trying to catch up to the play. That lack of speed, coupled with the poor technique of not getting their heads around for a play on the ball, is the reason for our secondary woes.
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
4:10 pm
planb:
cause he doesnt want to but elam on the spot its nt all of elams fault him n the holder r havin problems with the snap so basically if u release elam u have to release on on the best punters in the nfl
shawn
November 23rd, 2009
4:16 pm
Do you guys ever notice that every time Arthur Blank steps onto the field in the fourth quarter during close games we lose that game, he needs to stay in his owners box and creating tension on the sidelines during the fourth quarter.
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
4:20 pm
shawn:
i have noticed that its either we are winnin or just made a big play is when our owner/ceo comes down to celebrate with us but when we are loosing is when he keeps his ass up stairs nice in comfortable but i bet u he will be on the field the whole game against Philly
D-DawgDavis
November 23rd, 2009
4:31 pm
Why isn’t Redman or John-Jessica Parker Wilson holding the kick? I realize some teams go second string QB and most go punter. Just a thought. Oh and another thought, so NO recognizes it has a problem with injuries at their Secondary spots and go out and sign McAlister and now rumored to get McKenzie back in the fold, but we lose B. Williams and get……….nothing?
MV6
November 23rd, 2009
4:37 pm
I think I said at 3:14 D-Dawg, we add nuttin to our secondary! Unless you count Ty Hill, we did get 1 pick 6 from him at least!
Overtime
November 23rd, 2009
4:41 pm
D-DawgDavis
the reason we havent been signing because if for say Roddy white gets injured(god forbid) but we signed McKenzie the we are goin to have to release someone then try to sign some one off our practice squad…basically we are hold that roster room in case of injuries
DownGoesFrazier
November 23rd, 2009
4:50 pm
I hope Phillies does play Vick most of the game vs. Falcons. That’s one so called QB we don’t have to worry about torching the secondary.
EJtheDJ
November 23rd, 2009
4:52 pm
I have to think that the coaches and GM are seeing the same things we’re seeing. That being said, they’re evaluation of what’s available personnel-wise to fix these problems must be a lot different than what we think. At this stage, maybe it’s their opinion that whoever is out there can’t come in and do a serviceable job as a replacement. Obviously at CB there isn’t an abundance of talent available otherwise they would already be playing somewhere. With so many needs in this defense, one player won’t make a difference anyway.
primetime
November 23rd, 2009
4:54 pm
2010 1st draft pick of the falcons takeprime eric berry aka the great one
primetime
November 23rd, 2009
4:57 pm
let me take that back we need to draft tim tebow
overtime
November 23rd, 2009
4:59 pm
I think the key is we need to murder Tampa to show the NFL we are still the team to beat n when i say murder i mean 55 points at mim n so we can get some of the young corners some playin time in a real game
tyger
November 23rd, 2009
5:03 pm
Falcoons make good showing…
despite the obvious, I’m proud of my Falcoons. You can’t find a more hostile environment to play this time of year and to come outta there with 2-3 opportunities to win is a sign of character. But the outlook is grim, they can only play the year out and hope for help late. We’ll see.
Unfortunately, I’m already forced to look toward the off-season. We need help at CB, WR, DL, OL.
CB – do we draft one in the 1st rd? Risky proposition but we need 5 star talent. Enough of the smoke and mirrors, it aint good enough. Brian Williams will be back and Houston is average. Beyond that, we’re in trouble. Chris Owens and Chevis have underachieved. Falcoons have to take a corner in the 1st/2nd rd. – rd. 3-4 havent produced for us at all.
WR – Harry Douglass will be back. Finneran is Finneran. White is good, but where’s the long ball gone? Jenkins is playing below avg. How can New Orleans stockpile so much explosive talent and we only have one?
DL – Bierrman, Sidbury, Davis, Jerry, Abraham, Babineaux, Anderson didn’t get a sack between them. Do we keep working this core group are take the best available there?
OL – How far can we go with street free agents, Dahl and Clabo? McClure aint gettin no younger and Baker is out 50% of the time. Don’t we need some top-line talent there also?
S – Thomas DeCoud and Eric Coleman have made us proud. But what’s in the future for William Moore? A healthy Moore is an asset but he’s depth at the wrong position, they’ve got to figure how to get him on the field. Maybe nickel back???
Its time to start mock drafting and looking at potential free agents. This team is good but wont be great without key fixes.
Hold Out
November 23rd, 2009
5:05 pm
My question is: Where is Roddy White? For someone who held out for more money. Our number one guy. He hasn’t made any big plays in the pass few games. How many catches has he had over the passes few games?
doggie dunnit
November 23rd, 2009
5:10 pm
If the Birds miss the SuperBowl, they can always play UGA in the Dead Doggie Bones Bowl.
Greg from Marietta
November 23rd, 2009
5:14 pm
Last year was an anomaly and never should have happened (but did due to the exceptionally weak schedule). This year is what you would expect from a very young team with a 2nd year quarterback (except that Ryan is playing better than a typical 2nd year QB). But as Smitty well knows, “Offense sells tickets and Defense wins championships!” So, until our defense matures and the weaknesses get worked out the Falcons will be a Good but not a Great football team. I’m proud of the strides that they have made and there are signs that in the coming years they will be a Great Team.
overtime
November 23rd, 2009
5:14 pm
tyger:
our OL is great we have maybe top 2 best run blockin lineman in the nfl dont forget we built out ol to run the ball not to sit in the pocket like Peyton or Tom look at there teams the cant run the ball to kill the clock or get a 1st down Wr we will be maybe the top 5 passing next year because we will be fresh at Wr n Tony G. is goin to open up our play book CB is obvious we need to make a big trade n try to get maybe Cromartie or Asomugha is wanna get out of Oakland n go to a team that needs him n can win…prime example Tony G. i mean come on who though Atlanta was goin to end up with a H.O.F TE..no one so i think we are goin to have a great season next year unless INJURYS happen(god forbid)
cutter
November 23rd, 2009
5:26 pm
I watched the Monday interview with Chris Houston on AtlantaFalcons.com. He looks like he’s either about to or has already been crying. Check it out when you get to the website go to media lounge at the top. Looks like he just got some bad news.
overtime
November 23rd, 2009
5:30 pm
cutter
that very tru i just watched it
cutter
November 23rd, 2009
5:31 pm
tyger- Brian Williams signed a 1 year contract. Do you re-signed a 31 yr old CB coming off of total knee reconstruction???
overtime
November 23rd, 2009
5:34 pm
cutter
thats tru ive never seen a vet. corner comin back off of a injury like that
John
November 23rd, 2009
5:59 pm
Our off season should be focused on bringing in proven DB’s and another receiver that can take the pressure off Roddy White. We are getting blasted in every aspect of the passing game and need to solidify our defensive secondary. We can’t afford to keep up with the inconsistency if we want to be an elite championship caliber team.
eastbound and down
November 23rd, 2009
6:15 pm
as a baltimore resident, foxworth has done little or nothing this season the ravens. the baltimore secondary has commited a ton of penalties and it is their pass rush that creates the problem for other teams. i don’t think there is a ravens fan in the state that is satisfied with this guy’s performance.
hiramsaint
November 23rd, 2009
6:40 pm
overtime…….. still the team to beat…. are you serious? you never were the team to beat and 5 have proven that already with at least 3 more to come
hiramsaint
November 23rd, 2009
6:41 pm
p.s. the saints already signed mckenzie
mark
November 23rd, 2009
7:05 pm
PROMOTE CHRIS OWENS>>>>>>>> BENCH BRENT GRIMES….. WAKE THE **** UP FALCONS COACHS>>>>> DUH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mike
November 23rd, 2009
7:21 pm
I had been saying all year go after McAllister. In the off season they could have made a run for Bryan McFadden as well, but they didn’t. if Houston ever learned to turn and locate the ball, he may be ok. When ever there is a well thrown ball he gets burnt, and whenever the ball is poorly thrown he generally runs through the receiver and gets a pass interference. Grimes although he plays with a lot of heart and determination, he is just physically over amtched most times. That being said it is not all the secondary. The defense as a whole gets pressure on the first and sometimes second series of the game ( see Brady, Rome, Brees, and Manning yesterday) and then after that the QB has all day to stand in the pocket and torch the secondary.The Falcons need to upgrade the line and secondary. Maybe an DE to compliment Abe (Bierman is a ball hawk, but lets face it he will never get consistent pressure on the QB….he is probably better suited as a strong side LB)and a NFL caliber starting corner. Houston, Grimes, Jackson, and Hill are at best nickel guys anywhere else. Owens may emerge and Brian Williams is not a bad #2 guy.The defensive upgrades need to happen through free agency, not drafting a guy and letting him learn for a year or two. We also need to look at kickers, not in the off season, but this week. Againt New Orleans, Carolina, and yesterday if Elam makes the kicks that a NFL kicker should make, then the complection of the whole game is changed, and maybe we are 7-3 or at worst 6-4 now. Also it may not be a bad idea to think about a receiver. Life should get better with Harry Douglass back next year (saying he does not lose a step). I think Roddy is a #1 with the right #2. Jenkins is not a #2. He is a possesion guy you bring in to get you the 6-7 yards you need for a first down. Just wait until he is double covered, and on the sideline…because he can not seem to reel the easy ones in.
D Hall
November 23rd, 2009
7:25 pm
The secondary can only do what the coaches teach them, but I do agree turn your heads around. They are only doing what they are told.
Defensive Letdown in Giants Stadium | The Bird Cage
November 23rd, 2009
7:26 pm
[...] starved of talent, but something’s got to give concerning opposing teams and their quarterbacks (check out DOL’s new blog where he gives some great solutions the Falcons could have made @ CB). Any team with a halfway decent quarterback will have a record day against the Falcons. Did the [...]
tyger
November 23rd, 2009
7:43 pm
Too early for the Falcoons Easy Button but…
2010 CB Prospects to Watch
1. Donovan Warren, Michigan, 6′0, 182, 4.38
2. Ras-I Dowling, Virginia, 6′2, 200, 4.5
3. Joe Haden, Florida, 5′11, 185, 4.39
4. Trevard Lindley, Kentucky, 6′0, 177, 4.41
5. *Robert Vaughn, UConn, 6′0, 192, 4.49
6. *Dominique Harris, Temple, 6′3, 218, 4.54
7. *Robert Johnson, Utah, 6′3, 193, 4.47
8. Patrick Robinson, Fla. St., 5′11, 190, 4.43
9. Jerome Murphy, South Fla., 6′1, 185, 4.39
10. *Myron Rolle, Fla. St., 6′2, 218, 4.46
11. Kyle Wilson, Boise St., 5′10, 187, 4.44
12. Myron Lewis, Vanderbilt, 6,2, 205, 4.5
13. Brandon Ghee, Wake Forest, 6,0, 191, 4.40
14. Crezdon Butler, Clemson, 6,0, 185, 4.39
15. Leroy Vann, FAMU, 5′9, 187, 4.39
* Safeties that could play CB
Falcoon CBs are too small, focus is on improving size and ball-hawking ability.
Also consider:
WR Dez Bryant, Oka. St. could be available – do you pass on that type talent to fill needs?
DT Richard Seymour, OAK, FA – do you spend to fix the DL finally?
CB Nate Clements, SF, FA – do you go with proven veteran?
What are the salary cap ramifications? Who wont be back next year? Do we need a Place kicker?
dawg fan 4 life
November 23rd, 2009
8:15 pm
How did we get Grimes as a CB.
gman
November 23rd, 2009
8:42 pm
folks its not only our corners is our defensive back coaches, we need some good veterans
at corner to show chir houston how to play. lets not forget he’s never had a vet to show him the way
i mean deangelo hall messed this boy up, brian williams is ok but hes not been there playing long enough. i agree houston needs to be benched, but not let go, he can stick with anybody he just
has bad technique, and it can be fixed falcon coaches just have not found the way. he needs some body on the feild to show him. maybe make him walk around all day looking backwards, or something. how can coaching not fix this i dont get it. its not all houstons fault. coaches need to step up and get this kid together, so while everyone is blasting houston, lets hear some coach blasting
crabapplejoe
November 23rd, 2009
9:10 pm
Spectator wrote: “Mike Peterson cannot carry Brooking’s jock. Giants tight end had a nice game, huh? Did you see Peterson trying to catch up after he was beaten by ten yards over and over?”
Glad to see someone else was watching the game….do you think that this means Petersons will not be going to the ProBowl afterall? LOL
thunderbull56
November 23rd, 2009
9:45 pm
Write it,write it on your forehead,write it on the palm of your hand.Dan Reeves,Jim Mora,and before them, and now,Smith too, let the other team’s tight end KILL YOU.Watch the film, O Yea of little faith.Watch,watch, as the the other teams tight end schools your linebackers and safetys and what the h#$$ else you drop back.While our erstwhile minions try to cram passes into an unfrickinopen tight ends paws.Free advice to any tight end aspiring to the Hall of Fame;Pray to play the Falcons at least once if not twice a year,BC,I can promise you, WIDE OPEN SPACES.
Mike
November 23rd, 2009
9:46 pm
Gman I do agree with you that Houston needs some coaching. You can not teach a corner to run down field with any receiver in football, which Houston can do. He is always in position to make a play. He now needs someone to help him with his technique. If he would get his head around and make plays on the ball rather than the receiver, he would be a top tier corner in the NFL.
Falcon 8211
November 23rd, 2009
9:48 pm
I said that too mike should have got chris mcallister . I hope the falcons can win 5 of the last 6 which is possible but a lot of improvements need to be made. the only games left are philly and new orleans that i’m worried about. we need one of them to make the playoffs the rest should be winnable games for us
Falcon 8211
November 23rd, 2009
9:49 pm
mike they kept saying yesterday that houston was playing the receiver that he needed to play the ball.
jka
November 23rd, 2009
9:51 pm
Regarding Foxworth: he was pretty much earmarked for Baltimore from Day 1,,,,,,where he been under fire for poor play. TD did the right thing on this one…….
The other option I don’t see is getting Owens some snaps…..Not only are the current CBs playing poorly, they also have little upside; Grimes & Hill won’t get taller, Jackson won’t get faster and Houston apparently will never learn to TURN AND PLAY THE BALL. Considering Owens was a 4-year starter in college, he should have been able take some snaps in the slot if nothing else….If not, this sure looks like a blown 3rd round pick
Mike
November 23rd, 2009
11:03 pm
Falcon I have said that all year (except last week against Carolina where for the most part he kept S Smith quiet). I find myself screaming everytime I see a ball headed his way…get your head around, unfortunately he never hears me…jka I saw Owens in a scrimmage and in preseason and really liked his agressiveness. I think he has a lot of upside,but that is yet to be seen. I thought last year we should have been trying to upgrade the secondary with a free agent, and I hope TD will see that this year. That being said no matter who is covering, we have to get some pressure on the QB. Falcon, the sad thing is we could win 5 out of 6 and still miss the playoffs. We really need the Philly game, and hope for Green Bay to lose a couple down the stretch.
JEM
November 24th, 2009
12:35 am
If they don’t finish 9-7, I might be done. 35 long years. I hear L.A. needs a team. Atlanta gets a new expansion team in a few years. New team, new identity.
Falcons better finish at least 9-7.
LantaFalcons
November 24th, 2009
1:35 am
I swear if I watch the game this sunday and see a defensive player playing the receiver and not looking back to see where the ball is … first I’m going to scream and then I’m going to start questioning whether or not the coaches are drilling into their heads the utter importance of playing the ball!!!
Jerry Jones
November 24th, 2009
8:33 am
If Roger Goodell gave the Cowboys 4 bye teams to play, I’d fire the motherf–ker.
TrueBlueBravesFan
November 24th, 2009
8:40 am
Ive noticed a consistent theme with the Falcon’s secondary. They can’t play man to man coverage. Our corners seem incapable of playing bump and cover at the line. I can understand why that is the case with Grimes. That’s why he seems to always be 5 yards off the line of scrimmage. What I don’t understand is why Houston seems so bad at it. He’s a big athletic corner who played a lot of bump and cover in college. What happened to him. Losing Williams was perhaps the biggest loss of the season because Williams could at least Jam properly at the line. I think OC’s have come to figure this out and they are calling plays that exploit cover 2 zone. Unfortunately its not an easy problem to solve if your defensive line doesn’t step up because almost any zone can be beat. That’s the advantage of man coverage……You can’t beat it with quick throws. Unfortunately Man coverage requires good Dbacks. I think this years outlook is bleak with this personnel.
stendec
November 24th, 2009
9:09 am
Drag Morten Anderson out of retirement! Force Jason Elam into retirement. The Falcons HAVE a secondary? Fooled me! A breakeven record is not worth a damn. Matt Ryan choking big time. Looks like Joey Harrington! Nothing to look forward to or get excited about from here on out. Except, of course, keeping streak intact. Believe these untalented heartless quitters will! To Hell with them. Happy Thanksiving! ++STENDEC++
I'm Gumby, dammit!!
November 24th, 2009
9:50 am
In response to the header of this article, Jake Delhomme was included in the list of “good” QB’s that have beaten us. I would think that only proves that mediocre to bad Qb’s can torch our secondary as well.
North FLA Falcon
November 24th, 2009
10:10 am
The questions about overtime are interesting. How about this: do a similar format to college but instead of starting at the opponents 25, start at their 40. So each team at least gets a freakin possession. That way you pretty much need at least one first down for a more makeable FG, or a decent drive for a TD. Or else face a long clutch field goal. It would open up the field a bit and create some excitement. It’s funny that the owners are concerned about “players safety” during overtime games during such a violent sport, with frequent concussions and serious injuries. Play the game! And settle OT in a fair and equitable manner.
Ryan
November 24th, 2009
10:46 am
Have to wonder how much of the quarterback syndrom is related to playing on the road and vice versa. We’ll find out in weeks 13 and 14 when McNabb and Bledsoe come to Atlanta. I have to think that if the Falcons and Saints play roughly the same they did earlier this year the Falcons pull out the win at home.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 24th, 2009
11:44 am
Pat – you are a RACIST, bias idiot. Ryan is a CHOKE and if it was not for his fumble, the team would have won the game. You still didn’t answer my question.
At this stage, who had the sophomore slump, Ryan or Vick.
You are a RACIST.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 24th, 2009
11:46 am
Oh my bad
sdgsdgsdgsdg
November 24th, 2009
1:56 pm
boooop!
Into Metrics & Probabilities
November 24th, 2009
2:00 pm
Someone please advise Matt Ryan that calling heads on the toss instead of tails has the better probability of winning the toss. Statistically that is the better choice.
He called tails at the start of the game and loss the toss to the Giants so why oh why did he go back out there for the overtime toss and call tails again???????
Mr.guy
November 24th, 2009
2:19 pm
the falcons should draft eric berry, he can play saftey or corner either way he’s better than every db on our roster
BS artist
November 24th, 2009
3:13 pm
Choke
Little man can’t get any attention today, life is tough when you live to instigate on blogs. Try life son.
BS artist
November 24th, 2009
3:15 pm
Choke calling someone a racist? Look in the mirror child.
Teejaystudio
November 24th, 2009
3:32 pm
Chris was picked up on waivers so the poopy teams had first shot at him. We couldn’t control that one. Dimitroff beefed up the D but lots of them are hurt. Hope we can find A way to keep winning and get to post season.
MV6
November 24th, 2009
3:44 pm
Sign Coutu, I promise you he wont miss any from inside 40 yards, Eric Berry would be a great pickup, all he does is make big plays but what makes you think he’ll be available when the Falcons pick, hes probably the top rated DB in the draft & will be long gone, maybe to Cleveland poor guy lmao lousy team & freeze his butt off. The Burner should just rest & try to comeback for the Eagles game, we need him for sure & we can beat the Bucs while he rests up this week, anybody seen a Abraham sighting hes doing his best imitation of Casper disappearing like a ghost! Go Falcons
Shamus Thacker
November 24th, 2009
4:36 pm
Why the Hell did we bring in Haushka for a kicking tryout?
He couldn’t kick from 10-yards away and hit Stone Mountain…
Shamus Thacker
November 24th, 2009
4:37 pm
Wide-right…
Shamus Thacker
November 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
Is Nick Mike-Mayer dead? Hell, lets bring him back…
If Morten (Big Fix) Andersen comes back, I’m staging a devastating one-man boycott!
WW
November 24th, 2009
5:19 pm
Joe Haden, CB, Florida
I just hope we are bad enough this year to be able to pick him up.
Black Lab
November 24th, 2009
5:28 pm
Good writing Orlando. I was not aware of all those available players. Someone in player personnel needs to wake up. At least they brought in kickers today. I agree on the corners….they are never looking for the ball….They are near it…but don’t make a play on it.
Falcon 8211
November 24th, 2009
6:01 pm
hey mike i see where GB lost kampman and harris on defense they will fade down the stretch .we do need to beat philly and hope romo fades down the stretch like he always does. they still have to play the gaints and philly which i think they lose plus they have to play the aints. that’s why i think 5 out of 6 with the loss coming against the aints or philly but would love to win out. i see they tried couto out today wander how long it will be before they sign him
tyger
November 24th, 2009
6:49 pm
Inside with the experts
1. Patrick Robinson, Florida State, 5-11/193
He is an elite athlete with the quickness, explosiveness and speed NFL coaches covet. He can run with the fastest receivers downfield and shows good receiver speed if he takes a false step. He shows good ball skills and burst to close on passes in a blink and go for the interception. He has all the physical tools and shows good competitiveness and instincts to consistently make big plays. Projection: Top-15 pick.
2. Joe Haden, Florida, 5-11/190 (junior)
If he shows as much improvement this season as he did last season, he could vault into the top five of the 2010 draft. He is a rare athlete with quickness, explosiveness and speed. He can run with any receiver but shows the loose hips to change directions in coverage with ease. Most star players are reluctant to play special teams, but he seems to relish the assignment and makes big plays there, too. Haden could become an NFL star with some improved technique. Projection: Top-20 pick.
3. Jerome Murphy, South Florida, 6-0/186
He is tall and athletic with rare speed. He seems to enjoy playing physical bump-and-run coverage and never hesitates to put his hands on receivers. He shows good smarts and instincts to read the quarterback and close aggressively. He is willing to go over or through the receiver to make the play. He shows good ball skills to make interceptions. Murphy consistently makes big plays all over the field and is consistently around the ball in key situations. Projection: Late first- or early second-round pick.
4. Trevard Lindley, Kentucky, 5-11/177
He is not a flashy prospect with elite speed, but he plays with impeccable technique and shows good quickness. He must add bulk to deal with big, strong receivers. He is smart, reading and reacting well to the quarterback. He shows the athleticism to make adjustments easily in coverage and shows great ball skills to break-up passes or intercept them. He will slip down draft boards because of his lack of elite speed, but there is no denying his consistent production against SEC receivers. Projection: Second-round pick.
Falcon 8211
November 24th, 2009
8:26 pm
hey d. led we did not try out any corners today
shortdogg
November 24th, 2009
9:40 pm
When A DB feel that he’s beat, he’s not going to look for the ball.
redbird
November 24th, 2009
9:50 pm
the latest on this subject:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8GuH9oDHrU
Keep it real
November 25th, 2009
8:34 am
Also another corner that we could get for cheap that is way better than our corners , Is Adam Jones, he has stayed out of trouble and he wont mess up again! Character does not win games! We have a lot of character on our team but what is that getting us! In the words of Joey Porter who would you rather walk down the alley with?
Why is Elam still on the team?
YA Tittle
November 25th, 2009
9:11 am
Defense is weak. Needs more talent as has been noted by all and definitely hurt by injuries. We knew this in the preseason. Falcs have actually done better on defense than I expected.
Wasn’t it great to see the offense, and especially Ryan get agressive and confident in the 2nd half. That has been missing for several weeks. They have been letting the pressure get to them and instead of beating the weakness of the pressure defense. This is a learning experience, as is every week.
Not there yet, but getting there.
BS artist
November 25th, 2009
9:44 am
hiramsaint
The Saints will fold like a cheap lawn chair after the Patriots put an a$$ whooping on them. Just like always, some things will never change. LMAO
HATinGA
November 25th, 2009
2:05 pm
Why is it we blitz and bring pressure on 1st and 2nd downs to get in good 3rd downs {8to 15 yards} but then on the pressure down 3rd and long we rush 4 and somtimes 3, thats when we need to bring it!! I would rather give up a big play every now and then to get the rewards of getting off the field or a sack fumble. There is nothing worse for your defence than to let a QB sit back there and convert on 3rd an 13!!
SilvesterCrenshaw
November 25th, 2009
3:29 pm
Im hoping that when the Falcons play the Phillies in a couple of weeks, McNabb is unable to play and Vick steps in and passes for 400 yards AND rushes for 200 yards. That would be the ideal scenario and revenge for Vick for getting blasted for being BLACK.
JoyceBrothers
November 25th, 2009
4:13 pm
Jason Elams job is finally in JEOPARDY. Thats after he (single-handedly) has cost the Falcons a playoff berth. We need to run the table in order to make the playoffs. We still have Philly (Vick) on the schedule and New Orleans, both games we most likely are going to lose. If we win the other 4 games, which we should, our final record will be a whopping 9-7. That will end the curse but keep us out of the playoffs. If Jason Elam doesnt blow the chip shot field goals against Carolina and the Giants, we end up 11-5 and make the playoffs again. Elam should have cut already but if he were to straighten out his problems, he has an incredible range of 55 yards. But you cant have a field goal kicker that makes 45-55 yard field goals, but misses extra points and chip shots (20-35 yards). Elam needs psychological help or we will have no other alternative than to cut him. Now that Elam and Ryan have slumped (I hate to say this because I think most of the CHOKE fans are hanging on my every word to see if I will mention Vicks name) I almost wish we still have Mike (Dogfighter) Vick on our roster. If Vick were here we would have gone undefeated this season.
LuwellaThornton
November 25th, 2009
4:42 pm
Our season has disappeared quickly. What started out so promising at 4-1 has quickly gone down the drain at 1-4. We should be 10-0 right now, because I think the Falcons are every bit as good as Minnesota, New Orleans, Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots (the elite teams of the league). I didnt mention Philly, Dallas and Carolina because I think they are mediocre. The falcons this year are one of the elite teams, but they just havent proven it so far. They will though if they run the table at 6-0 and finish at 11-5. This will be the only way our season will be a success. We must because even if we have a single loss and finish at 10-6, we wont get in the playoffs because Dallas, New Orleans and Philly will own the tie breakers against us. If we fail to make the playoffs there should be drastic personnel changes next season. Coach Smiths job is safe at least for another year.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 25th, 2009
5:38 pm
BS artist
November 25th, 2009
9:44 am
hiramsaint
The Saints will fold like a cheap lawn chair after the Patriots put an a$$ whooping on them. Just like always, some things will never change. LMAO
“You mean like the one they gave the Falcons this season”
Falcons Fan
November 26th, 2009
6:43 am
I’m starting to wonder about Arthur Blank’s hiring process because the last two head coaches that he has hired. They both were defensive coordinators for their former mediocre teams. Maybe the next great defensive coordinator hired will actually know how to coach defense because the other two do not know what a defense looks like. Another thing for you Matt Ryan fans you’ve been fooled again!! Matt Ryan against bottom feeding teams makes him look like Peyton Manning but when he goes against the big boys he looks more like Ryan Leaf of San Diego
Albert Patterson
November 26th, 2009
7:03 am
The problem with the Falcon’s Defense is coaching. For some strange reason, the defense backs have not been taught to try to locate the football when it is in the air. I have watch the Falcons consistently since 1987 and I have never observed the DB’s trying to locate the football. You really don’t have to be an outstanding quarterback to defeat the Falcons as long as the Falcon’s secondary continue to play this way. Winning teams have secondaries that always try to locate the football. I am a loyal Falcon fan primarily because I was raised in Georgia and I will always support the home team. However reality tells me that as long as the DB/s do not try to locate the football, The Falcons will never establish a winning tradition.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 26th, 2009
10:10 am
Enter your comments here
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 26th, 2009
10:12 am
The Falcons are respected so low, that the horrible bucks are 56 percent favorites if they have zero turnovers………..
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 26th, 2009
10:13 am
http://sports-ak.espn.go.com/nfl/nflpreview?gameId=291129001
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 26th, 2009
10:16 am
Somebody needs to visit the fashion police.
DAVID
November 26th, 2009
12:26 pm
I’ve been saying this for the longest, the Falcons need a defensive end and a over 6ft corner… When that happens, the Falcons will be ready to compete for it all… We are a pretty good team now, lost a couple of game we should have won (New Orleans, New York) watch how much better we will be if we work on these 2 positions….Chris Houston should remain a starter, Brent Grimes and Ty Hill are a no no… Good Qb’s with tall recievers will have a field day with them… If you dont apply pressure to a quarter back I dont care if it’s Deion Sanders a corner can cover for so long…….
Edward
November 26th, 2009
2:17 pm
The secondary is pretty wretched but all hope is not lost if we can’t win 4 of our next 6 against the likes of Tampa Bay twice, Buffalo, and NYJets then we don’t deserve to have back to back winning seasons. All that being said I think the key down the stretch is along the defensive line. A swift pass rush can make even a bad secondary look good, but the best news is that we are back at home now where we are nearly unbeaten under Coach Smith.
jeff p
November 26th, 2009
3:09 pm
You still have to look at the great coaching of this team – other than the game in Dallas, the team has been competitive in every game. If you look at the schedule, the only extra win you would think they could have gotten was at Carolina, but Matt Ryan made some bad decisions which shifted field position.
I like Roddy White’s attitude – playoffs start now. This team should be able to win 5 out of 6 games down the stretch and make the playoffs. They key game will be against Philly.
They can control their own destiny and just focus a game at a time but I believe their tough stretch of the schedule is behind them – especially when the next three are at home.
This team is what it is and the record reflects that – defense is not that great and management took those chances in the offseason which is showing in these recent games.
I still like the “process” of this organization and these definitively are not your father’s Falcons or even your Vick/Mora Falcons of recent memory.
Let’s pack the GA Dome the next three weeks and show some passion and get this team heading in the right direction again.
cdog
November 27th, 2009
1:26 am
put chris owens at the corner. and anyone else. you can’t do any worse than that mess they have had at the corners. houston and grimes act as though they never been on a football field before. both does not have any pride or heart. both are a waste. each week they get beat like a drum and they just laugh about it. along with decoud. when you play secondary for the falcons, you forget how its played. makes you wonder about everything including the coaching
ltdbrave
November 27th, 2009
8:28 am
One big mistake the Falcons made was not signing Keith Brooking. I understand the youth movement, but he cpuld have really helped.
JYD
November 27th, 2009
9:28 am
The Falcons are what we knew they were, total defense = swiss cheese, Offense was too over hyped by the media, our receivers can’t seem to get open. One would have thought the offense was supposed to put up points like NO. Can’t total blame the D, Ryan looked like the second coming of Joey.
david
November 27th, 2009
9:33 am
we have got to retrain our corners to turn their heads and see why the guy they are covering is all excited, THE BALL IS COMING!!!
Michael
November 29th, 2009
1:44 pm
WAY TO GO ELAM!
Michael
November 29th, 2009
1:46 pm
Just noticed the sound of chirping crickets. This is obviously not the Falcons’ live-game blog…
Tammycga
February 8th, 2010
11:20 am
nice read. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did anyone learn that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.
Dianecgq
February 8th, 2010
11:23 am
very useful read. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did you hear that some chinese hacker had hacked twitter yesterday again.
Jennifercgz
February 8th, 2010
11:56 am
nice read. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did you guys learn that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.
Janicecgz
February 8th, 2010
12:53 pm
interesting article. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did any one know that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.
Angelacgk
February 8th, 2010
3:21 pm
very useful read. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did anyone hear that some chinese hacker had hacked twitter yesterday again.
Cherylcga
February 8th, 2010
3:22 pm
nice article. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did you guys know that some chinese hacker had hacked twitter yesterday again.
Denisecgm
February 8th, 2010
3:28 pm
nice read. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did anyone know that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.
Dianecga
February 8th, 2010
3:29 pm
quite interesting post. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did you guys learn that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.
Theresacgg
February 8th, 2010
3:31 pm
nice article. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did you learn that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.
Phylliscgz
February 8th, 2010
4:09 pm
very useful post. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did any one know that some chinese hacker had hacked twitter yesterday again.
Cherylcgm
February 8th, 2010
4:12 pm
quite interesting read. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did you learn that some chinese hacker had hacked twitter yesterday again.
Dianecgz
February 8th, 2010
4:16 pm
very useful post. I would love to follow you on twitter. By the way, did any one know that some chinese hacker had busted twitter yesterday again.