OTAs: Tony Gonzalez plans a trip to Super Bowl
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and tight end Tony Gonzalez get on the same page. Jason Getz/jgetz@ajc.com
FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez has heard owner Arthur Blank’s message, loud and clear.
Loading ...Gonzalez knows that Blank was not talking about wedding rings, either.
“On paper right now, this is probably the best team that I’ve ever been on,” Gonzalez said after Wednesday’s OTA session. “It’s exciting. It’s good to know that we can go out there and accomplish some big things this year.
Running backs Jason Snelling, Dmitri Nance (30), Turner and Jerious Norwood line up to participate in a drill. Jason Getz/jgetz@ajc.com
When I say that, I’m thinking Super Bowl.”
Gonzalez isn’t shy about talking about the team’s high aspirations.
“Why would I think any other way?” Gonzalez said. “Why would I, especially at this point in my career and with the talent that we have on this team. We can go a far ways if we want to, if we work the right way.”
Gonzalez hasn’t played on a team that’s won a playoff game, but he was on the 2003 Kansas City team that posted at 13-3 regular season record and had the AFC’s No. 2 seed. They were upset by the Indianapolis Colts 38-31 in the divisional round of the playoffs.
Gonzalez believes the Falcons are on par with those Chiefs who featured record-breaking seasons by running back Priest Holmes, quarterback Trent Green and returner Dante Hall.
“I know that offensively, we are comparable to that 2003 team out there in Kansas City when we had a lot of Pro Bowlers on that side of the ball,” Gonzalez said. “We have that same talent on the offensive side of the ball.”
Falcons coach Mike Smith is expected a big bounce-back year from John Abraham. But should he be at OTAs? (Curtis Compton/compton@ajc.com)
The Chiefs’ leaky defense failed them against the Colts. Gonzalez believes the Falcons defense has the potential to be much stronger unit.
“On defense with the pick up of Dunta (Robinson) coming in, (John) Abraham, (Curtis) Lofton and we have a lot of guys going into their third year,” Gonzalez said. “That third year is when it really clicks for you. There is really no excuse at that point.”
There has been a lot of talk about players making a big jump in their third year.
“You’ve had a chance to go out there and play,” Gonzalez said. “Now you are out there in that comfort zone. That’s when you start to hit your stride as a player. We have a lot of those types of guys on defense right now.”
Also, quarterback Matt Ryan is entering his third year.
“I think if he keeps playing the way he is right now and keep improving, I’ve always said with Matt, it’s not ‘if’, it’s ‘when’,” Gonzalez said. “It’s just up to him and to have us around him to make sure that our learning curve is accelerated. . . mentally, it’s a no brainer for him. . . I’ve got big plans for Matt this year. But it takes all of us coming together.”
Getting sized for your ring? Gonzalez is attending the OTAs, should defensive end John Abraham be at the “voluntary” workouts?
The Rookie Club is set to visit the Shepherd Center
OTAs: Mike Smith looking for some consistency
OTAs: William Moore takes part in first session
Chauncey Davis helping to fight childhood obesity
At the polls: Fans say no to T.O.
Thomas Dimitroff to play D.J. on DAVE:FM
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135 comments Add your comment
Jim
May 27th, 2010
8:05 am
Now or never Tony.
TMoney
May 27th, 2010
8:10 am
With a lockout looking more and more likely next season, now is the ideal time to win. A lockout next season might just end the careers of Gonzo and Abraham.
Blue Fender
May 27th, 2010
8:18 am
I’m ready for some football!
Tweets that mention OTAs: Tony Gonzalez plans a trip to Super Bowl | Atlanta Falcons -- Topsy.com
May 27th, 2010
8:20 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Kay Kay and D. Orlando Ledbetter, ATLHOMER. ATLHOMER said: Atlanta Falcons – RT OTAs: Tony Gonzalez plans a trip to Super Bowl: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and tight… http://bit.ly/drvEQA #AJC [...]
Paddy
May 27th, 2010
8:21 am
TMoney…I know the lockout picture looks dim now. But with so much money at stake on both sides, I see an agreement at the 11th hour like all labor disputes. When both parties realize that the checks are about to stop, cooler heads win out in the vast majority of cases. I don’t anticipate this to be any different.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 27th, 2010
8:25 am
Nobody wants to shoot the “Golden Goose.” The labor deal will get worked out. There’s just too much money involved.
TMoney
May 27th, 2010
8:32 am
Paddy – Too true. Most labor disputes do get resolved before a lockout or a strike can happen. However, this just seems like a situation where both sides are unwilling to budge. I don’t want a lockout, but right now, with both sides saying they don’t make enough money, there doesn’t seem to be any movement by either side.
FalconTransplant
May 27th, 2010
8:39 am
It’s not ‘IF’ but ‘WHEN’
Nice quote, I’m also expecting big things from Matt this year. But like TG said it’s up to the team around him to be productive when Matt finally hit his stride.
Who’s ready for some football?
Tweets that mention OTAs: Tony Gonzalez plans a trip to Super Bowl | Atlanta Falcons -- Topsy.com
May 27th, 2010
8:54 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by D. Orlando Ledbetter and Darryl Ledbetter, D. Orlando Ledbetter. D. Orlando Ledbetter said: @DirtyBird4life You can vote on if Abe should be at OTAs. http://bit.ly/cDi1Pr [...]
Hamp
May 27th, 2010
9:02 am
A number of years ago Abe had a couple of years where he was hurt a lot. Every since he has skipped OTAs to attend the core training. He has been on the feild more so I say if smitty is ok with it
teamguy
May 27th, 2010
9:13 am
Concerning the labor dispute, eleventh hour will be too late to get my money for season tickets. I am not about to pay $2400 for replacement players. So if I’m not certain by June 1 that the “regular players” are going to play the games, I’m not re-upping. And my season ticket account has been on the books since 1968. I have just about had it with professional athletes anyway, so I’m really just looking for an excuse to boycott them all. A strike/lockout would just about do it for me and the NFL. The baseball strike that eliminated the World Series years ago marked the last penny I’ve spent on major league baseball, and, as much as I love the Falcons, a strike would end that.
Mike
May 27th, 2010
9:19 am
Maybe it’s part of being a fan of Atlanta’s professional sports teams, but whenever I hear players on the Braves, Falcons or Hawks talk about winning a championship, I roll my eyes and think to myself, “I’ll believe it when I see it.” So far, I’ve only believed one time (1995).
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
May 27th, 2010
9:21 am
if they didn’t want abe to lay out they should make it mandatory or do league rules prevent that this time of the year ? And I think he should be there with his team just to show hey this is the year lets all get it together . But he does have a choice , and he has done this before as i learned from Mr. Ledbetter yesterday.
tnfalcon
May 27th, 2010
9:25 am
I am really looking forward to this season. This team has the chance to be as good as any in the NFL and better than most. I am a true believer in the third year improvemnet of players. As far as John Abraham, even if his workout is limited his presence in the OTAs will send a good message to the newer players and help the team come together.
Sly Ty
May 27th, 2010
9:26 am
If the team stays relatively healthy, the falcons have as good a chance as any of the other elite teams. That is correct, the Falcons are an elite team. The Falcon games from last year continue to be shown on the NFL network channel, and many of the loses were games that could have been won had Jason Elam not been so eratic. Kicking will be better as well as the Defense.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
May 27th, 2010
9:34 am
i hope the kicking is better . How are the kickers looking so far ?
NOLA
May 27th, 2010
9:34 am
Somebody please tell that guy football is not played on paper. This season will confirm what everyone in America already knows.
‘Cons are garbage.
truth
May 27th, 2010
9:41 am
FalconsTransplant…………..I AM!!! GO FALCONS!!!
Hey NOLA, I got a middle finger for ya……there ya go!
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 27th, 2010
9:43 am
truth — Ignore NOLA. Don’t flip him off. I might have to start deleting you guys if you get into a cyber fight.
Gritz Blitz
May 27th, 2010
9:56 am
For the last few weeks, I’ve been telling friends and family that I think we may be going to the Super Bowl. As a life-long Falcon, I have never had such a feeling before in the off-season. Let’s go Falcons!
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 27th, 2010
9:57 am
Gritz — Was that you on Sirius radio yesterday?
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:01 am
Can’t we all, just get along.
Gritz Blitz
May 27th, 2010
10:03 am
Sorry DOL, that wasn’t me.
Birdman
May 27th, 2010
10:04 am
DLed, did you find out about Babs suspension probability? Maybe you posted elsewhere?
**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**
May 27th, 2010
10:04 am
Falcons are loaded. Let me say this:
This is the deepest team with the best coaching staff in Falcons history. Period.
The only thing that could muck this up is injuries…and I mean injuries to key parts like Ryan, Turner, White…or Lofton. Also, I DO expect Jenkins #12 to bounce back this year and contribute. He has the intangibles, experience and size. Time to make it happen like he did in Ryan’s first year (his contract year).
More than anything…I like our committment to size and depth on the O and D lines. Long-time Falcons fans know that we have lacked this throughout our dubious history…certainly in ‘98, some depth during the Glanville years, the best ever during the Gritz Blitz days…but generally we have been small and undermanned up front on both sides of the ball.
Not now though…things have changed.
Birds at least 12 games, spilt with Saints. Play to represent the NFC in the big Bowl. Don’t know if they will win just yet.
FBD
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:05 am
NOLA….does that mean a saints fan?
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:12 am
Fredy B. Douglas……agree with most of your comments. The Oline and Dline are the foundation of a team.
Have to disagree on the split with the saints. The Falcons will beat them in both contest in 2010.
I think the Falcons have the team to represent the NFC and will win the Superbowl in 2010.
Birdman
May 27th, 2010
10:16 am
I am all for high expectations, but in the interest of maintaining good karma, lets cease the SB predictions for this young team. Yes we seem to be rounding into a very talented team. We still have questions on both sides of the ball however. Can an SB run be near, of course it can, but no need to shout it out. Lets stay under the radar and beat teams without a lot of smack talk going on.
FalconsFan284
May 27th, 2010
10:22 am
NOLA—-It’s a good sign for a Falcons fan when someone that cheers for the Aints finds his way to a Falcons message board. It’s great because it shows you are worried. The Falcons played the Aints tougher then any team, outside of Minnesota, last year and nearly beat them twice. Drew Brees took advantage of our defense, that’s his job after all, but the defense has gotten better. If I were you, and thankfully I’m not, I would be worried about those Dirty Birds! At least Falcon Fans are honest fans and not band wagon jumpers.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:22 am
The Falcons will win Superbowl XLV. And if I want to talk about it, I will talk about it.
If the saints can win the Superbowl, the Falcons can win the Superbowl.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:33 am
cyber flipoff?
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:34 am
thats bad manners.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:35 am
Or is that, cyber manners?
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:35 am
I mean, bad cyber manners.
Shananeeee Fananeeee
May 27th, 2010
10:36 am
Tony will need tickets to get into the Super Bowl. Arthur will not win a Super Bowl ring.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
10:37 am
Shan Fan……Wrong!
The Real Truth!!!
May 27th, 2010
10:39 am
Tony Gonzales has lost his damn mind!!!! That KC team had a superstar Kick Returner, a 2000 yd, 25 TD rusher and a 4500 plus yd passer!!!! This Falcon team is not even in the same league with that taem!!! I know he is hear and wants to be the ra-ra guy but he is full of –ish on this one!
Karl
May 27th, 2010
10:41 am
I’m a believer, but staying healthy is the big key. I’m really concerned about P. Jerry, W. Moore, and Sam Baker. Apparently Jerry is still limping.
ChippersLoveChild
May 27th, 2010
10:43 am
Vets always say these things at the begining of the year, it’s their job to pump up the team and set high expectations.. the Falcons will be lucky to get out of the first round of the playoffs, much less go to a Super Bowl.
A yeea Yeaaah
May 27th, 2010
10:44 am
Ok, since we are going to the SuperBowl, we’ve got to come up with our own chant!
Any takers?
Jazzyk
May 27th, 2010
10:46 am
Orlando,
What’s your assessment of the Falcons’ offensive line and pass protection?
Do you think they’re undersized and if they are, what’s the front office going to do about it?
truth
May 27th, 2010
10:48 am
The Real Truth=NOLA. You can’t hide behind a name you coward.
Ok DLed I’m done with him, don’t cast me into cyber Hades or something.
GO FALCONS!!!
Mitch (the one in Rome)
May 27th, 2010
10:49 am
I would like to see Abraham in camp unless he is dealing with personal issues. If it’s just because he does not have to be, that is a problem for a guy coming off of a sub par season. He needs to be setting the pace.
The Real Truth!!!
May 27th, 2010
10:54 am
truth
May 27th, 2010
10:48 am
Sorry to be the one to say it, but NOLA aint me! he may be a nice guy and it is apparent that he knows more about footbal or at least is more honest than some of the posters here, but I am not he
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 27th, 2010
11:15 am
Birdman — Expecting to hear something from the league on Babineaux near the start of training camp. (Late July).
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 27th, 2010
11:19 am
Mitch — nice line of reasoning.
truth
May 27th, 2010
11:33 am
Da Weal Twoof…..If not, ya’ll are two peas in a pot. Check it out guys we have a couple on board!! Would ya’ll like one queen bed or two fulls? Never mind…I know silly of me to ask. One queen it is!! You guys have fun!!! BWAA HA HA!!!
Sorry DLed, can’t help it but I’m not flashing the cyber bird.
dawgs01
May 27th, 2010
11:54 am
55 should be there. If you want to win a championship you got to put in the work. These players make all the money in the world but complain about practice or dont show up. I am not saying he is doing that he might have a valid reason i am just talking generally. Get to the camps 55
RobbE33
May 27th, 2010
12:01 pm
Just stop it, okay? We don’t need the jinx of the “favorite” role. If Tony wants to be quietly confident, that’s fine, but until we can establish ourselves as a consistently dominant presence on the field, let’s surprise a few teams before we start pasting targets on our backs. Respect cannot be spun from pre-season hyperbole. Take care of business and the accolades will come. And for Tony, I hope they come this year by the boat load!
RobbE33
May 27th, 2010
12:06 pm
John has shown a tendency to injuries and running out gas at the end of the season. I can’t blame Smitty for wanting him to take it easy. John knows what he’s doing. Give him a chance to keep doing it through December and into January by resting now.
waynester
May 27th, 2010
12:16 pm
I’d be much more dissapointed if he wasn’t confident. Belief is vital to acheiving anything. They’ve got me believing too, for the first time in a long time….
Section 108
May 27th, 2010
12:21 pm
We have the offense – A SB run lies in the hands of our DB’s, pass rush, and kicker. Only the good Lord knows where we could of gone last year if we would of had 1 or 2 out of those 3……
PMC
May 27th, 2010
12:26 pm
It’s June. Abe has stuff that’s going on. This is the time to get that stuff in order. Being at every single OTA is not mandatory and it’s not necessary for Older Vets. He’ll get his share of leadership in.
The fact that they know where he is tells you that JA is dedicated and wouldn’t miss it unless what he is doing is very important.
Sid
May 27th, 2010
12:30 pm
To: Defensive end John Abraham …………..everybody is there…………why aren’t you? f……ing prima donna
Sid
May 27th, 2010
12:38 pm
@PMC
May 27th, 2010
12:26 pm
*************************************************************
PMC = John Abraham
*************************************************************
Yeah, you’re right, I guess he couldn’t have done it any other time except while the team was working @ putting together a run for the Super Bowl………….
truth
May 27th, 2010
12:47 pm
Say what you want Tony G, you’ve earned it.
Sid
May 27th, 2010
12:47 pm
@RobbE33
May 27th, 2010
12:06 pm
*******************************************
Serve me up some more of that fine BS you got there. If they want him to take it easy that is fine, but they would want for him to take it easy there, at the OTA’s. This is a time to build team consensus and trust. You cannot think that there are other Falcons players that are not pissed he is not there.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
12:48 pm
Oh yeaa Yeah @10:44am……I don’t know what the Falcons chant will be, I really don’t think they need one.
But, the saints chant will be Who Dat? Who Dat? Who Dat Done Kicked Our A$$es(two times in 2010 when the Falcons get through with them)?
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
12:51 pm
The saints are one turf toe away, from being in last place in the NFC South Div.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
12:54 pm
The saints are one turf away, from being in the bottom slot of the NFC South at the end of 2010.
Football Bat
May 27th, 2010
1:27 pm
Falcons are garbage? They are about as far from rebuilding now as a team can get, and they reloaded both sides of the line in the draft. I think their 9-7 curse breaker was a perfect way to conclude last season, b/c one and done playoff appearance means nothing if not a downer during the offseason. Also finally heard Blank talk about focusing on WINNING THE DIVISION which is exactly where their focus should be. They have momentum and confidence. If they get a few breaks on injuries, YES, absolutely they can beat anyone.
truth
May 27th, 2010
1:30 pm
If I was a aints fan I would be worried about the Madden 2011 curse. Judging from what has happedned to players who graced the cover in the past, Brees is most likely in a padded room w/o furniture as we speak. Also, look back at the ones (the few they are)who were not injuried after being on the cover, none had a year like the one before.
Jt
May 27th, 2010
1:40 pm
I want my team thinking the way TG thinks. There are no excuses-it is a talented team that is in the third year of this “process” and it is realistic to think in higher goals than have previously been attained. It’s not enough to just make the playoffs- farther and farther.
As far as Abraham is concerned, I generally lean towards the idea of ALL players being there, but I believe that John Abraham knows what he needs to do to be at optimum level when the season begins and he will do it. He has been completely professional while a Falcon and his propensity for injury may be a concern but his heart, desire and work ethic to prepare himself to play has never been questioned while a Falcon
marcus
May 27th, 2010
2:28 pm
hte games the falcons lost last year they had a chance to win and that all the games they lost so as far as gonz saying he’s on the best team he’s ever been on i think it’s true and the team we have now is the best we ever had so saints fans on our site talking that need to step off we’ll see ya’ll on the field whats up
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
2:34 pm
Look into my eyes………..SURPRISE!!!! I’m a Falcon!!!
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
2:43 pm
DOL,
I love these birds. I love where we are going. I love Matt Ryan, but I wish he would start pump faking these defenses. All the greats do it. Where are the pump fakes? Am I the only one not seeing them? Does he do it in practice?
Fat Ryan
May 27th, 2010
3:10 pm
“On paper right now, this is probably the best team that I’ve ever been on”
UUUUGGGHHHHHHH??????? Not that I disagree with you Tony but….haven’t you only played for like …2 teams in your NFL career????
If Stayin out
May 27th, 2010
3:10 pm
of OTA’s keeps his old brittle arse on the field come the regular season I’m all for it.
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
3:23 pm
Fat Ryan, do you have a fat steak between your ears? He has been with 2 organizations. The organization’s team tends to change year to year based on trades, free agency, the draft, quality of play, etc. How dare you question Mr. Gonzalez’ experience in the National Football League.
Fat Ryan
May 27th, 2010
3:29 pm
Crabkilla, re-read my post…I said 2 teams. I’m not doubting TG, I just thought the headline was amusing…and yes, I do have a fat steak between my ears.
truth
May 27th, 2010
3:37 pm
I wish I had a steak…… ;(
truth
May 27th, 2010
3:37 pm
I wish I had a steak…… ;(
SirReal
May 27th, 2010
3:48 pm
Guys,
I think we’re at least poised to make a run but it will depend on these factors i believe: 1) Our QB. It all starts here. He has to be mentally tough and learn how to take a hit w/o getting up and looking like a deer in the headlights for the rest of the game. He’s very solid and in this 3rd year, its time for him to make a serious stride. Period.
2) The O-line has to keep him on his feet so we can make some downfield throws. I’m still not sold on Sam “T-Rex arms” Baker. The rest of the line is solid.
3) The DEFENSE as a whole, especially the pass rush. I think our secondary will be a bit better than even I expect. We’re more solid w/o Houston back there being a piece of wood. (got burned too often.lol)
4) The players giving a full 48. I saw a few games where we didnt finish and let teams back into the game. (e.g. Last year vs. redskins)
5) Finally but very important, A CONSISTENT KICKER THAT DOESNT BLOW 2-3 GAMES FOR US!
With these factors, we have just as good a chance as anyone. This is an upper echolon team if we play like it. Thats my humble opinion.
truth
May 27th, 2010
4:09 pm
…..and baked tator.
BULLSEYE
May 27th, 2010
4:16 pm
@-SirReal.
You forgot to mention that we to take it one game at a time and score more points than the other team.
btw-Sam Baker would rip your little arms out of their sockets.
truth
May 27th, 2010
4:22 pm
….chives. mmmmmmmmm
Optimistic
May 27th, 2010
4:50 pm
I love Gonzalez’s optimism! He had the same high aspirations last year, but what happened was the injuries kept piling up and Matt Ryan kept throwing interceptions. I have high hopes for this new and rebuilt Falcons team, with Turner back, along with a strong corps of wide receivers (hopefully). Then we have defense; Peria Jerry will be back and we also have Dunta Robinson.
I completely understand his optimism and love it.
I was upset that last year we didn’t make it to the playoffs, Tony saw the Falcons as a Super Bowl team… but that was when EVERYONE was healthy.
I am going to knock on wood, hope that everyone (especially our major weapons) will remain healthy into the bulk of the next season. Go Falcons 2010!!!
GT3O
May 27th, 2010
4:53 pm
Dare I say it D-Led?
The Jackets and Falcons are gonna have Atlanta “ALL DA WAY TURNT UP!!!!!”
falcon fan
May 27th, 2010
5:02 pm
….and a ice cold beer. Yummmm.
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
5:03 pm
hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahaha & lmao
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
5:08 pm
how bout some crabs? Surf n turf
falcon4ever
May 27th, 2010
5:09 pm
we should get a wildcard spot behind the saints but at least we’ll get there
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
5:15 pm
having a wily QB, who pump fakes and can dodge rushers. ala Brett Farve; plus having a defensive that runs undetected, stunning stunts that smash the opposing QB, is how you become a force. I remember Jacksonville as having a pretty good defense under Mike Smith, anybody else remember differently?
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
5:17 pm
we should at least split with the Saints. Remember the Jets game? It indicated we had some serious tenacity. Remember, if Elam makes 2 easy kicks, we would have been 11-5.
falcon4ever
May 27th, 2010
5:19 pm
paddy o — sounds like you’re describing my team. imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. thanks!
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
5:26 pm
The Falcons will defeat the saints in both games they play this year.
truth
May 27th, 2010
5:28 pm
I love crabs. Gots some from a lady in Miami in ‘96.
truth
May 27th, 2010
5:29 pm
wait….that don’t come out right. She was selling them on a pier in Miami and we took then back to the time share and had a surf n turf cookout. They where awsome.
Loyal Falcon
May 27th, 2010
5:56 pm
No more Dirty Birds….We are about to be known as the Ferocious Falcons!!!!! It’s going to be a really good year.
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
5:56 pm
rekingball–optimism about a good season is one thing but don’t set yourself up to be dashed against the rocks. the falcons fans may talk like you do but deep down they know whats gonna happen and they should know and you know what ? it’s o.k. really it is . two losses to the saints won’t ruin your chances for another WINNING season
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
6:00 pm
loyal falcon, i appreciate your enthusiasm but thats really gay and i think most will agree with me on that
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
6:22 pm
The pump fake is something that is distinctly omitted from Ryan – He needs to watch film of Farve. Also, we need to emulate the great teams of the Eagles, Steelers & Ravens – the opposing team must be worried about pressure up the middle, of the side of the line, a linebacker up the middle, a quick corner blitz, even a super fast safety. We also have a problem with read/progressions – if the out guy is open, pop him. If not, check the slot/Wes Welker guy, the tide end and finally a free running back – BUT, this type of attack at all points must be available on every play. We have to be able to run these plays from similar sets, or we are just telegraphing our intent on the upcoming play. I thought we did a poor job of disguising our play intent.
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
6:23 pm
I would also like to see us go back to the red unis & red helmets, but that is just personal preference.
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
6:47 pm
paddy o–just reading your few post i can tell that you know more about football tactics than smitty will ever know. i look forward to more from you
Dawg Man
May 27th, 2010
6:49 pm
Tony G is a great player and a very intelligent guy, so if he says this team is ready to rock, I’m quite ready to believe him.
GO FALCONS!!!!
Loyal Falcon
May 27th, 2010
6:50 pm
@hiramsaint
Please keep your sexual orientation to yourself. This is a falcons blog, see your way out. Take your garbage somewhere else. Everyone knows the Aints got lucky last year.
SirReal
May 27th, 2010
7:08 pm
@Bulleye Well sir I really wasnt talking to you so you can keep moving along. Thanks for taking time out to speak to me though.
Loyal Falcon
May 27th, 2010
7:11 pm
@Paddy O
I agree 100%
falcon4ever
May 27th, 2010
7:22 pm
loyal falcon, you should leave hiransaint alone because most of the time he knows what he is talking about and the fact that they won the superbowl was not luck at all but skill. we may not like the saints but they were obviously the ultimate team in the nfl and our team should try to follow their example
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
7:42 pm
loyal falcon— i was going to retort but 1 of your own has done it for me… ladyreal –what cute smiley face, new to the pc are you ?
Chop Buster
May 27th, 2010
7:52 pm
Talk is cheap. Having the best team on paper does not win one game. Let’s see how you perform on the field before we go making any predictions. Confidence is always a good thing…just keep it to yourself and PERFORM consistently on the field.
Who dat?
May 27th, 2010
7:53 pm
Drew Brees says hi! Says you gals gotta get through him and the Saints.
Good luck, dirty birds!
Atl Resident
May 27th, 2010
7:58 pm
Someone on here said Falcons are loaded, with what? So far this same situation where we got some draft picks that supposed to be good but until they play and we win this is just same thing that was said last year. I know better than to not get caught up in all that BS cause we have seen this same thing, over and over for so many years.
Falster
May 27th, 2010
10:01 pm
Hiramsaint will be in for an extremely H U G E shock if he believes that , “two losses to the saints won’t ruin your chances for another WINNING season” will actually “happen”! He will most likely be struck dumbfounded when the FALCONS beat them BOTH meetings this coming 2010 NFL season!
Chop Buster
May 27th, 2010
10:32 pm
Who dat? Tell Drew Decoud says he’s looking forward to seeing him again.
martin2323
May 27th, 2010
10:41 pm
That’s so FUNNY. I’m on the floor after that remark by your tight end. What does he think the super bowl champions saints will be doing, while the falcants attempt to even make it to the super bowl.I’m glad he thinks that way, but IT AIN’T GOING TO HAPPEN. The saints are will be better on defense, and you falcants fans already know about their offense. I say the saints continue their beat down of the falcants, let’s see it the last 7-8 games the saints have won. Make that TWO more after this season. You guys know without the saints fans in the stands in the georgia dome, you guys don’t get a sell out.
Flo-Ri-Duh!
May 27th, 2010
11:05 pm
The Falcons will be better on defense – better means better than average. The o-line, however, will probably take a step back. Injuries and age are catching up and they need some new blood. WR will be about the same – no big pick ups there. Hopefully Turner and Norwood can stay healthy. Pass blocking was below average last season and will need to get better for the Falcons to get the ball more than 20 yards down the field. Special teams were also a problem with inconsistency and I don’t see an upgrade there. So, better on defense but a step back on offense and about the same on special teams leads to a season similar to last year but I will give them one more win for their 3rd winning season in a row and a possible wild card bid.
I been to N.O. once. GAY!
May 28th, 2010
7:29 am
You New Orleans fans must be confused. You’re cleaning up the dirty birds from the gulf, not the Dirty Birds of Atlanta. That reminds me…get to work!
rekingball
May 28th, 2010
8:16 am
saints….take Brees away, what have you got? Nothing.
They wont have the Refs backing them up this year.
martin
May 28th, 2010
10:07 am
At least we have a SUPER BOWL BANNER that will be hanging from the rafters, what does the FELL-CANTS have, NOTHING. As a matter of fact, make that three flags hanging from the rafters when the season starts. NFC SOUTH CHAMPS, NFC CHAMPIONS, AND SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS. UNTIL THE FELL-CANTS WIN A SUPER BOWL, YOU guys CAN’T SAY NOTHING. Sure tony will be in the super bowl, WATCHING THE SAINTS REPEAT. The fell-cants ain’t even on the same level with the saints anymore, we own that sorry team, just look up the last eight games. The saints have won 7 of 8 games. Now, until you guys win a championship, go crawl under a rock, along with the panthers. The saints and tampa bay can talk super bowl, they’ve won one. The fell-cant’s are one of about 17 teams never to win the super bowl. Oh, and another thing, that bs about the refs helping the saints,because of katrina, give me a break. If the refs and the league felt sorry for the saints, how come win the saints and bears played for the nfc championship right after katrina in 2006, did the saints not make it to the super bowl. It seems to me that would have been the time, the refs and everybody else would want them to win the super bowl, so that stupid argument needs to go the way of the sorry fell-cants. I say fell-cant’s because you guys will fell to make it to a super bowl, and cant’s because you will never and i mean never win one. The saints won super bowl 44 because they had the number one offense in the league. Check the stats, NUMBER ONE OFFENSE THE LAST 3 OUT OF 4 YEARS IN THE LEAGUE. Just the facts, that all I speak, not some bs you guys make up in your heads.
Paddy O
May 28th, 2010
10:54 am
hiram – didn’t you think the pump fake was just a progession for Ryan, that he just hadn’t become comfortable enough to manipulate the defense?
Also, defensively, rushing the quarterback, last year we were vanilla. Occasional CB blitz. The teams I mentioned, at their height, made you nervous playing them. That is the rep we want. Next year, if we win less than 10 games, I will be big time disappointed.
Paddy O
May 28th, 2010
10:59 am
Saints fans need to get realistic – the Vikings & Colt kicked their asses most of the games. They were the team of destiny, just like the Giants. How did the Giants do the following year? That said, I was happy for the Saints. People forget that for 80% of the Super Bowl, Indy was winning – and the newbie coach is really the guy who lost it for them.
truth
May 28th, 2010
11:25 am
I do remember the aints had to come from behind quit a bit last year. Not to good for a “high powered” offence. Also, some of those come from behinds were luck and refs. I know you aint fans hate that but it’s the truth. Do the research yourself. Heck we were close to beating the aints w/a backup QB and RB. But phantom interference calls stopped that. Go figure.
ELVISINTHEHOUSE.
May 28th, 2010
11:56 am
Keep dreaming tony,the only way you will get a ring is being a future TE coach for a good team.Wishing and hoping in this league is not good enough.Unless ofcourse that you are a goooood playstation player playing madden,you probably can make the superbowl with trades.
Paddy O
May 28th, 2010
12:09 pm
Follow up: If Dungy had been the Colts coach, New Orleans loses. No way would Freeney have been left in there the second half – the Saints were playing him bad.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
1:07 pm
if “if” was a skiff we could all go sailing. thats all you falcons do is complain and say “if”. we won and thats the fact. y’all lost your sb and thats a fact along with being ancient history. a really good team has the skill and determination to be able to come from behind under adverse conditions and get a win, other teams simply go 9-7, miss the playoffs and celebrate a WINNING season.
truth
May 28th, 2010
2:01 pm
ADVERSE CONDITIONS!!! Hiram you’re a freak’n moron. When a call goes your teams way and it’s so obveous to everyone including the announcers and it’s a call that pushes your team ahead in a game….how is that adverse conditions? stupid……
truth
May 28th, 2010
2:04 pm
The aints are who we thought they where……and the ref’s let’m get away with it. lol
Chop Buster
May 28th, 2010
2:04 pm
HiramSaint, the Falcons never celebrated having a WINNING season…it was these sorry A** media folks that kept that in the news (the fact that the Falcons never had back to back winning seasons in the team’s existence). There were some fans on here happy that the monkey was finally off of our backs, but there was never any celebrating. So where do you continually get this garbage from? And enjoy your SB win…you guys won it. You were exactly where we were when Sean and Drew first came to your team…winning nothing. It took a couple of years before you even started to win. How quickly we forget. We’ll be in that A** this year! Try and say we’re the same ole Falcons all you want, but you know better.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
2:10 pm
and the falcons have never had a call go their way? we came back and won games , your team didn’t -live with it . had y’all won that game it would make no difference ’cause we still win the div. and you watch the playoffs from home. i won’t stupe to your lack of education, meaning knowing nothing else but name calling, but how would have things been different. thats right false, they wouldn’t have
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
2:12 pm
chop- with smitty and ryan?
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
2:13 pm
truth– superbowl win, LOL
truth
May 28th, 2010
2:25 pm
hiram-aint…..I knew it wouldn’t take you long to come back with something….not much…..but good effort. You are so gullible. I can reel you in like a fish. Here’s to hoping Brees don’t get the Madden curse all over his cajin a**.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
2:30 pm
good comeback truth. brees is not actually cajun but seeing as you don’t know very much about anything , we won’t hold it against you.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
2:31 pm
p.s. – did you have a good report card this year ?
Chop Buster
May 28th, 2010
2:33 pm
Hiram…Ryan isn’t Brees, but he’s only in his third year. Smitty is the best we’ve had next to Dan Reeves. Reeves problem was he couldn’t change with the game. So yes, we will get there with Ryan and Smitty to answer your question.
truth
May 28th, 2010
2:36 pm
cajin, cajun, kaygin. Honestly, stop and consider this. If Brees goes down what would that do to your aints? We lost our stating QB and starting RB and a botch call gave your aints the game. Think for a moment we were in smelling distance of beating the aints with Chris Redman!!!! The aints aint all that. For such a high powered offense the aints had to came from behind to many times with help from those in stripes. Your team is a superbowl joke. congrates none the less but face reality, with your team.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
2:47 pm
truth, the reality is the lombardi thats in new orleans. again i say we had the talent to come back where the falcons didn’t. i’ve seen so many saints teams doing what the falcons are doing now. that is hiring a no-name asst. coah and putting him in a situation way beyond his skill level then paying astronomical amounts of money to a player who is average and actually thinking we were gonna be good. it doesn’t work like that and as long as blank wants to control the team instead of letting a real coach do it, the falcons will remain a .500 [give or take a game] team. that too is the reality !
truth
May 28th, 2010
3:08 pm
No…………the aints had the stripes to help them come back. It wasn’t just in the games between the Falcons and aints there were others. You can spin all you want, but I’ve watched the replays, so should you. The fact is your “high powered” offense only showed against teams they should have beat’n. Truth is all of this is under the bridge…..we will see soon who’s for real and who “AINT.”
Oh, your comment at 2:47pm is way off base. Horrible talking points.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
3:17 pm
with your name you should know i’m right. i’ve watched the replays and all the games with nfl sunday ticket. perhaps your the one that should watch.our HIGH POWERED offence showed enough to be ranked with a lombardi trophy. what has 72 mil. matt done except throw completions to defenders.—.500 at best till blank gets off the sidelines and hires a real head coach
truth
May 28th, 2010
3:32 pm
Ok……just keep watching, you’ll learn. But like I’ve said, we’ll see once the season starts. Just don’t forget this and be man enough to eat your crow. I will. Gotta go.
hiramsaint
May 28th, 2010
3:43 pm
see ya truth- i’ll be lookin’ forward to the season too and i’m always here . banter with ‘ta later.
Paddy O
May 28th, 2010
5:29 pm
hiram aint knows that the Colts coach gave the game away, due mostly to being a novice. Dungy would have smoke em. The Vikings kicked the crap out of the Saints, and now they got rid of Sharper & Vilma. We shall see how good they are. Brees played great, and I root for Brees – thought he got a raw deal in San Diego just like Plummer got screwed in Denver by Shanahan – Shanahan hooking his team up to that wanna be Vanderbilt ten cent headed Cutler – who may have the best coach firing record this side of Mike Vick.
truth
May 29th, 2010
9:40 am
Agree with you Paddy except the aints resigned the old man Sharper. Flame away hiram.
hiramsaint
May 29th, 2010
8:31 pm
we still have vilma which means vilma will have smoked ryan for lunch twice this year along with a side of blackened falcon