Look ahead: 49ers are not Road Warriors
Falcons wide receiver Roddy White had a career-high 210 yards receiving and two touchdowns against San Francisco last season. Paul Sakuma, AP
FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons coach Mike Smith did his best Lou Holtz impersonation during Monday’s press conference.
When it was over, you were convinced that Smith had a healthy respect for the 0-3 San Francisco 49ers.
He wasn’t all over the top with it, but he noted that when the Falcons beatdown the 49ers last season that running back Frank Gore didn’t play, wide receiver Michael Crabtree didn’t play and the since-departed Shaun Hill was the quarterback.
While Gore, Crabtree and quarterback Alex Smith don’t exactly make you think of Roger Craig, Jerry Rice and Joe Montana, they are upgrades.
“Last year’s game in San Francisco will have no bearing on the outcome of the game this week,” Smith said. “It will have no bearing whatsoever. They’re a completely different football team.”
The 49ers were predicted to win the NFC West, but have struggled early this season. Head coach Mike Singletary fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye on Monday. Former Falcons assistant coach Mike Johnson will call the plays.
Here’s a quick look at the 49ers:
Record: 0-3, with losses to Seattle, New Orleans and Kansas City.
Falcons running back Michael Turner scores a touchdown in front of 49ers safety Curtis Taylor in the second quarter of last season's game. Paul Sakuma, AP
Last time played: Wide receiver Roddy White caught eight passes for a franchise-record 210 yards and two touchdowns, including a 90-yarder, a career-long catch. He broke Terance Mathis’ team record of 198 receiving yards, set on Dec. 13, 1998, against New Orleans. Here’s the game story from last year.
San Francisco on offense: They have weapons in Gore, Crabtree and tight end Vernon Davis, but things have not clicked for them this season. They did play the Saints close, but had four turnovers. The Chiefs took away their running attack, Davis and then sacked Smith five times. They are 31st in the league in points scored at 12.7.
San Francisco on defense: The defense is led by middle linebacker Patrick Willis, but they have not stopped the run. Last week, Jamaal Charles rushed for 97 yards on 12 carries and Thomas Jones had 19 carries for 95 yards. Singletary has denied reports that he is going to bench linebacker Takeo Spikes and safety Michael Lewis.
San Francisco on special teams: Joe Nedney is the kicker. Andy Lee is the punter. Nedney made a 51-yard field goal last week against Kansas City, which gave him a franchise-record nine successful field goals of 50 yards or more. Kyle Williams had three kick returns for 65 yards against Kansas City, but he had a fumble. He replaced Phillip Adams, who had a fumble against the Saints.
What you should know: The 49ers are not Road Warriors under Singletary. They are 4-11 on the road under the former Chicago Bear great, losers in eight of the past nine away games, with no road victories outside the NFC West since they won in Buffalo on Nov. 30, 2008
Former Falcons assistant Mike Johnson was "promoted" to offensive coordinator this week.
What you might not know: Johnson, 43, is a former backup quarterback with Arizona State, who’s spent 10 seasons as an NFL assistant with the Chargers, Falcons, Ravens and 49ers as either a receivers or quarterbacks coach. The Los Angeles native coached with the Falcons from 2002 to 2005.
Coach: Mike Singletary, who was a candidate to be the Falcons head coach before Bobby Petrino was hired, is in his fourth year with the 49ers.
Get instant updates on Twitter at AJCFalcons and you can join the Facebook Fan page at AJC Falcons.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
156 comments Add your comment
Sid
September 28th, 2010
9:47 am
Atlanta 24 SF 10
Eric C.
September 28th, 2010
9:48 am
Go Falcons!!!
Eric C.
September 28th, 2010
9:51 am
This game scares me just because the 49ers are in desperation mode and the Falcons are trying to avoild a let-down
Sid
September 28th, 2010
9:53 am
Eric, I had the same thoughts but I think our coaching staff has a handle on that…………..
D. Orlando Ledbetter
September 28th, 2010
9:55 am
Payback game from the old NFC West days? Roles are reversed.
truth
September 28th, 2010
9:56 am
This game excites me. The 9ers are in a state of confusion and the Falcons are ready to guide them alittle farther into that state. Coach knows not to look past ANY team. He knows they must play as hard this week (well even more harder) than last week.
truth
September 28th, 2010
9:59 am
GO FALCONS!!!!
Oregon Falcon
September 28th, 2010
10:01 am
I predict the Falcons score around 40 points again and hold the 49ers under 17. There will be no let-down with this Falcons team, they are hungry and seriously want to win some football games.
What I believe about the Atlanta Falcons is they are greatly coached team, and the type of mindset the organization insists upon is working, therefore they will not become complacent.
The drafting scheme, designed by Thomas Dimitroff is working. We have some holes in our skill positions and both lines, but they work as a team, they work hard and they play to their strengths.
The last three years have been a joy to watch, and I have learned so much about the administrative and coaching aspects of the game by observing how Dimitroff and Smith have built this team.
We crush the 49ers.
Arthur Blank initiated a study of successful organizations and Pittsburgh was a model of consistency and I believe Dimitroff copies Indianapolis’ drafting style. It is working.
Great athleticism with cerebral concepts, I love this game of football especially since our Falcons have finally figured out how to build a successful franchise.
I have watched them since 1969, and I am having a great time.
Khao$
September 28th, 2010
10:01 am
This is a DANGEROUS game…we’d better be on our P’s and Q’s.
DTYBRDZ
September 28th, 2010
10:03 am
Atl Stomp on Sunday!!! Our defense is going to get some turnovers. Willis is a beast but he’s one man…
Chop Buster
September 28th, 2010
10:12 am
Because there is a change in OC and the Falcons have no idea what the 49ers will do offensively, this should give us fans a look into how well our coaching staff make in-game adjustments to what the opponent is doing. Additionally, I want to see the Special Teams and defensive issues improved this week. Number one is stop the run and make the Niners one dimensional.
Sid
September 28th, 2010
10:12 am
New Orleans LB Scott Shanle said Monday “For us, we know we didn’t play well. It would be one thing if we thought we played outstanding and still lost the game. We still feel like we are still the team to beat.”
That doesn’t sound like what champions say does it? Frankly, except for the kicker, I think they brought their A game.
………………………………..Rest in Peace George Blanda……………………………………..
mountain_jim
September 28th, 2010
10:12 am
If the players had suffered thru all those old-time SF beatdowns like us older fans have, they would stomp this team just for history’s payback-sake.
Sid
September 28th, 2010
10:14 am
Chop Buster……………you are right, the sweet taste of victory has caused me to overlook our serious deficiency on special teams………..certainly SF is looking to see if they can capitalize on that.
Marcus
September 28th, 2010
10:19 am
DOL,
I think this season will be big payback for the ol’ NFC West days. We already nipped the Saints, just for old times sake. Now if we can whoop the 49ers and Rams to get some comeuppance for Scott Case and Charles Dimry, we’ll be good
Sid
September 28th, 2010
10:21 am
on offense………………
SF 31st in points, 20th in yards, 13th in passing yards, 27th in rushing yards
Atl 6th in points, 6th in yards, 16th in passing yards, 2nd in rushing yards
Authur Blank
September 28th, 2010
10:22 am
Im not talking about the Saints no more only thing I can speak upon is the 49ers
Sid
September 28th, 2010
10:24 am
on defense
SF 32nd in points, 17th in yards, 16th in passing yards, 15th in rushing yards
Atl 6th in points, 21st in yards, 22nd in passing yards, 12th in rushing yards
2Legit2quit
September 28th, 2010
10:32 am
Falcons 38- 49ers 10! Does anyone know what happened to Fin last week, I did not see him at all in the game and 83 only had one catch for 1yard and two drops. We need Jenkins back to get some heat off White!
mark
September 28th, 2010
10:33 am
There are no more dangerous games with this team, because they will be focused and ready no matter who their playing. They are physical and play with a level of tenacity that should keep us in every game. Injuries are the only thing that can stop us. They stood toe to toe with a Pittsuburg team that looks like the best defense in the league. We lost but learned about always being aggressive, this team will never back down from a fight or ease up based on the record of another team.
waynester
September 28th, 2010
10:52 am
Mark
I like your attitude and hope you’re right. As Sid demonstrated above, the stats show a SF team that has a pretty good Defense despite points allowed (many of those due to turnovers) and a good passing game. If we continue to be stout against the run(and Gore is better than any of the Saints’ backs) and win the turnover battle this should be a win. It’s hard not to feel confident, knowing our home record under Mike Smith is darn near perfect and we’re 2-0 in our classic 60’s unis!
SWAT Native
September 28th, 2010
10:55 am
This to me has the makings of a trap game. SF may be 0-3, but they really should have beaten the Saints. The Falcons are coming off a big emotional win and could be due for a letdown. I hope that the Falcons players are following Smitty’s lead and not taking the 49er’s lightly.
Blake
September 28th, 2010
11:00 am
Where’s ninerbacker? He said his niners we’re gonna come here and tear us a new one.Then he asked me what I was smoking!I had to remind him his team got trounced 45-10 last year on their turf. “Send In the clowns…don’t bother their here”
Joe Tess Fish House
September 28th, 2010
11:10 am
Trap game for the Falcons. I can see them taking the niners lightly and loosing this one. VanGordons defense might be under peppered for this game.
papadawg
September 28th, 2010
11:11 am
The Falcons cannot afford to look beyond anyone. Great win but it could & really should have been a loss so they are not so good to expect easy games. They loss to Pit you know
dean
September 28th, 2010
11:13 am
The Falcons can play great defense and offense, but if they let KO/Punt returners run wild it can all be for naught.
Good luck Falcons!
McNasty
September 28th, 2010
11:18 am
Congrats D Led on getting the first question @ the coaches news conf. sunday. This shows respect from the falcons for your job. But can you tell me, or any one else, about the Ryan screaming episode on the sideline in overtime? As well as when Gonzo had words with a DB on a low hit.
Joe Tess Fish House
September 28th, 2010
11:19 am
Ryan yelling at his players is uncaled 4. U never seen Vick do that.
truth
September 28th, 2010
11:26 am
Dang……I have yet to see this team LOOK PAST anyone.
Dennis
September 28th, 2010
11:34 am
JTFH – no, all that guy did was flip off the fans.
Dennis
September 28th, 2010
11:35 am
And kill dogs.
2Legit2quit
September 28th, 2010
11:39 am
Dennis, too funny but true!!!
I was a vick fan and I hate dog killers but he has paid his dues to society and just lets move on! There is no comparrison between Matt Ryan and Vick, Vick is fun to watch but will never be the leader Matt is for us. I recall the re-opening of the superdome when the saints put it to us and Vick looked overwhelmed and did not show the emotions you saw last week from Ryan. Go falcons!!!!
allcrimson
September 28th, 2010
11:41 am
“A dirty bird can’t fly with a broken wing.”
No. But he can run like hell!
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
11:49 am
And hide his pot pipe in his water bottle at the airport, and give some woman an STD.
Lesa
September 28th, 2010
12:17 pm
I was glad to see Matty Ice show some fire on the sidelines during the Saints game. You could tell he really wanted to win that game. Sometimes a leader has to light a fire under his teammates. Leadership skills are an important asset for an NFL quarterback. As for the Niners, I think we’ll beat them soundly this weekend. Go Falcons!!!!!
NO1 PICK
September 28th, 2010
12:19 pm
LETS GO RON MEXICO!!!
Ron Mexico
September 28th, 2010
12:22 pm
Come’o bro dat aint koo dis’n me like dat. Know what’m say’n? Look it bro I did my thang down in Mexico gotz my groove on, know what’m say’n. hee hee hee. Thank da herps are bad shud’a seen da girl. Nasty with’a capital…….ahhh…..ahhh…..DA** IT, to much weed! Oh oh……..capital A! Know what’m say’n.
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
12:26 pm
Ron, you write just like you talk. Amazing !
Section 108
September 28th, 2010
12:33 pm
Joe Tess, you are the most pessimistic falcons fan ever. of all time. Or are you really a Falcons Fan, or really a Aints fan in disguise?? Cmon man feel the love – RISE UP!!!!!!
Ron Mexico
September 28th, 2010
12:36 pm
What up Falcon Jim. Mcnabb taught me a few thangs up hera in Philly. But I can seen to git dis gramma down to good. Oh shut I dropped my dope and daze’a gun. Where dat daym dawg go?
Ron Mexico
September 28th, 2010
12:36 pm
Neva mind….here kitty kitty kitty……..
Ron Mexico
September 28th, 2010
12:40 pm
I’m look’n fowad to my homies come’n up hera to Philly. Shud be a good game, dat i if I still be start’n qb. Know what I’m say’n. I have sum real teams come’n up so who knows…….DAYM!!!! Where dat itch come from? Desean you been ware’n my jock strap again…..yo mo fo!!!!
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
12:45 pm
Ron, yu be to much, ma man.
ctfalconsfan
September 28th, 2010
12:49 pm
We can’t let up. Can’t look past San Fran. I hate playing teams without a win as you know they are going to win eventually and you don’t want it to be against you.
They will be hungry so I’m hoping we won’t be taking this game lightly..
Mack
September 28th, 2010
12:53 pm
Great Game!
We have 4 draft picks starting @ QB in the NFL right now and after sundays win I finally believe we have the best one starting for us =)
Farve is really really old
Schuab is injury prone
Vick has no leadership skills
Falcons 34, 9ers 10
yo mama
September 28th, 2010
12:54 pm
ron STFU!
Beef
September 28th, 2010
12:54 pm
Falcons: 38
49′ers: 10
Ken Strickland
September 28th, 2010
1:03 pm
TRUTH-I loved your analogy and you attitude. I don’t see the Falcons having a let down. Like you said, they’re in a state of flux, which means they’ll have to deal with chemistry and adjustment issues, both on the field and in their play calling.
The Saints had an all out commitment to stop the run, and we were still able to be effective. Our OL did an excellent job of containing their constant all out blitz, and providing room for our RB’s to run. Our DL put a lot of pressure on Brees. They limited his reads and forced him to get rid of the ball before his WR’s could get open for those long back breaking gains they thrive on.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU SAY ABOUT TE TGONZALEZ? They tried to stop him by using a CB, LB, SS and double team, and he beat them all. When they started fixating on Tony G, RWhite took over and started slicing them up. The only reason our passing OFF isn’t as prolific as the Saints is because we’re a run first OFF that depends more on the run than the pass, unlike them. And because of run first philosophy and approach, the passing routes and formations we use aren’t as varied or as complex as theirs.
FALCOM JIM-MVick has spent 2yrs in prison, a full yr as a backup QB with the Eagles, and has won 2 straight gms this season after winning the starting QB position. And with all of that, you’re still trying to make an issue on extremely old and irrelevant BS. MVick has certainly gotten past his issues and his past indiscretions, why can’t you?
Come on, the Falcons should be more important to Falcon fans than what MVick did in his past, or is doing at this point.
SID-It’s funny how LB SShanlee can talk about them losing to us because of their mistakes and alleged poor play. But I don’t recall him saying a damned thing last wk about their win over the 49ers being tainted as a result of the 49ers numerous mistakes and poor play. From the start of last season straight through the Super Bowl, including the first 2gms of this season, these fools have come to think they’ve somehow played poorly if they don’t get all of the breaks and luck they’ve needed during that stretch to win gms.
Without that ball hitting TDeCoud’s foot, one of their scores would have been eliminated, and we might have added an additional score, which means Sunday’s gm wouldn’t have been that close.
HAS ANYONE NOTICED HOW OUR RESIDENT AINT FANS ARE NO LONGER DOMINATING OUR BLOGS WITH THEIR SPECIAL BRAND OF BS, OR BEING AMONG THE 1ST TO POST EACH DAY. I GUESS THEY’VE FINALLY DISCOVERED THAT WHAT THEY DID LAST YR, INCLUDING WINNING THE SUPER BOWL, DOESN’T HELP ONE DOGGONE BIT TOWARDS WINNING GMS THE FOLLOWING SEASON.
drmondo
September 28th, 2010
1:06 pm
D. Orlando Ledbetter Payback game from the old NFC West days? Roles are reversed
Marcus DOL,
I think this season will be big payback for the ol’ NFC West days. We already nipped the Saints, just for old times sake. Now if we can whoop the 49ers and Rams to get some comeuppance for Scott Case and Charles Dimry, we’ll be good
————————————————————————————————————————————————-
Amen to that!! I’d love to see a string of 42-7 Falcons wins to make up for the ’80s and ’90s. Marcus, anyone who remembers Scott Case is ok in my book. Even when the team was horrible I could count on #25 making the highlight films for a few big hits, ints, etc.
Go Falcons!!! Great game against NO!! Now keep up the pressure and own the NFC South!!
The U
September 28th, 2010
1:06 pm
MV7is the media darling of the NFL, the comeback kid,everyone on the bandwagon and it’s tipping over. You ron mexico and falcon jim must watch the tranformation you never dreamed possible. Hey, there’s still room on the bandwagon.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
1:10 pm
The 49ers have not been successful on the road because they are not comfortable on the road. One reason for the comfort level is the opposing teams crowd.
If we show up and support like we did against AZ then look out; once these guys get comfortable they can be dangerous.
How about we SHOW UP, fill all 70,000 seats before the kickoff, and run them out of the stadium.
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
1:12 pm
Ken, I agree. I wish well for Vick, he paid the price. I think we are dogging him because there are some that just won’t let go.
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
1:18 pm
I used to be as big a fan of Vick as anyone. The other day when the Eagles game was on, I asked my wise young son why he was hating on Vick so much? He said he could not get over how he screwed the Falcons so bad after they did so much for him. Out of the mouths of babes……………….
waynester
September 28th, 2010
1:22 pm
Ken and the U
Ken said that all the ways Vick let this franchise down are “irrelevant”. Perhaps to Eagle and Vick fans, but not to Falcon fans. One man is not greater than the team and that was the problem with that player all along. No matter how much this organization did for him it was always about Mike and rarely if ever about the team. Everyone keeps telling us how much he’s grown up and these were just “youthful indiscretions” but Criminy, the man was nearly 30 years old and still hadn’t figured out that it’s the team that’s paramount. I hope for his sake and the folks who still admire the guy that the “change” is for real. I know for sure that the Lord can make such a night and day change in a man’s life but while I say “forgive” I also say “never forget”. I’m still glad that it’s the Eagles who have to deal with it now and not the Falcons. No “I” in team….
papadawg
September 28th, 2010
1:26 pm
This is the Falcons blog not the Eagles so shut the heck up about Vick. He needs to enjoy this brief spotlight cause he will return to his happy feet ways and be crushed by a good defensive team
waynester
September 28th, 2010
1:28 pm
papadawg
I hope one of those teams is Atlanta. The Eagles(with or without “7″) have had our number for far too long….
Keith
September 28th, 2010
1:28 pm
Re: Joe Tess Fish Home
I bet to differ with you. As a QB and leader of team, a true leader needs to confront teammates sometimes if they screwed up or aren’t giving their all. I applaud it. Good to see some energy on the sidelines!
GO FALCONS!
falcondawg
September 28th, 2010
1:28 pm
Ken, there is another reason our passing stats don’t look as good as the Saints. Most of Brees’ passes are the short stuff (5-8 yards). It’s impossible to defend them 100% of the time. He rarely threw the ball down the field!
Keith
September 28th, 2010
1:28 pm
*beg to differ
falcondawg
September 28th, 2010
1:30 pm
I can’t believe we’re still talking about Vick! I don’t have enough emotional energy to spend worrying about him. I have to use what I have on today’s Falcons
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
1:30 pm
We’re playing the 49ers. Last time I looked Vick was playing for the Eagles. Eagles fans talked alot of smack about Vick back in the day and come week 6 I am sure they will be talking smack again.
This is week 4.
falcondawg
September 28th, 2010
1:33 pm
Did anybody noticed that Smitty was about to speak to the team but when “Ice” took charge he kinda backed out of the huddle and let the iceman do his thing? Very encouraging to see that we have a quarterback who takes charge!
Joe Tess Fish House
September 28th, 2010
1:35 pm
If my QB yelled at me, he would have a broken leg.
waynester
September 28th, 2010
1:39 pm
Frontrow
The team has to stay focused on the Niners this week but we have Philly in a couple of weeks and as a fan, I want to see us kick their asses for a change. I don’t know if you realize this but ever since our 1st playoff meeting(which we barely won) they are 14-10-1 against us in the regular season, 2-1 postseason and we’ve only beaten them ONCE since 2000! I freakin’ loathe the Iggles and am ready to see us turn the tables on them regardless of who their QB is. The fact that Vick is under center just makes me want to whup ‘em even more than usual….
falcondawg
September 28th, 2010
1:42 pm
I really like using both Burner and Snells throughout the game! They both stay fresh and that wears out the defense by the fourth quarter.
papadawg
September 28th, 2010
1:53 pm
Wasn’t the all great Vick under center for alot of those losses to Philly
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
1:56 pm
waynester – after the performances the last 2 weeks I detect elevated excitement in the fan base. My first game was the 14-13 playoff win in the rain and 30,000 empty seats. So, yeah I want to see us win in week 6.
But this is week 4. The 49er’s (with Young, Rice, TO) came here in ‘98 and the CROWD RAN THEM OUT OF THE STADIUM.
How about we tap that energy first.
FalconsFan284
September 28th, 2010
1:56 pm
Joetess——-Matt Ryan yelling at a backup tackle and showing his desire to win is leadership. seems you won’t be happy unless Micheal Vick and Terrel Owens are on this team. Well I hate to be the bearer of bad news but IT’S NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Quit your crying and talking trash and get behind this team!!! Go cheer for Philly or the Bengals and leave the Falcons alone!
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
1:58 pm
Wasn’t it the Iggles playoff game that was supercold and Vick led a victory? Is my memory correct?
I believe that was one of Vick’s best moments…………………………….or was that Green Bay?
reckingball
September 28th, 2010
1:59 pm
I would like to see the Falcons put a beatdown of the 9ers, like they did last year, and get some more revenge on the 9ers, for the beatdowns they used to give the Falcons, back when they were both in the same division.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:00 pm
FJ Falcons / Vick never won in Philly. Vick was the first QB to win a playoff game in Lambeau Field.
We have a few demons to exorcise in week 6. Until then, please if you can get a ticket and be in your seat by kickoff.
papadawg
September 28th, 2010
2:00 pm
If you haven’t had a QB yell at you then you either never played on a football team or played on one worth a crap. Yelling out of anger is one thing but yelling from intensity is another
reckingball
September 28th, 2010
2:01 pm
The Eagles contained Vick in NFC championship game, and the Eagles won.
falkonfan
September 28th, 2010
2:03 pm
allcrimson
September 28th, 2010
11:41 am
“A dirty bird can’t fly with a broken wing.”
No. But he can run like hell!
post of the today! GO BIRDS!!!!
Kane337
September 28th, 2010
2:08 pm
I remember Mike Johnson. He stayed on the Falcons coaching staff after the Dan Reeves to Jim Mora coaching transition in 2004. He was Jim Mora’s QB coach in 2004 and they went to the NFC championship game. After a dissappointing 8-8 season in 2005 he got the axe. He basically took the fall for Mike Vick’s poor season. The new QB coach (I believe Bill Musgrave) didn’t make dramatic improvements since the Falcons went 7-9 in 2006 in Mike Vick’s last lack luster year with the Falcons.
HGN
September 28th, 2010
2:10 pm
Eric C. I am with you. This game scares me. I just think that the Falcons may could have a let down and let the 49ers get too much confidence if there’re not careful……
And as far as ‘Matty Ice’ yelling at his teammates, so what? He’s the Leader and he’s taking charge. Which is what he is suppose to do. No , we never saw Vick yelling at his teammates, but I have never seen Ice fighting dogs either. So it all balances out from my standpoint.. We need a take charge QB. And I am glad we have Matty Ice.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:10 pm
Here’s what Matty Ice said (fill in the f-word yourself):
We got our f****** chance. Now let’s take this f****** ball and run the f****** thing down their f****** throat.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:13 pm
Yeah scary game. But I do recall the Dome crowd running a much better 49ers team OUT OF THE DOME in a much bigger game (divisional playoff).
The 49ers will be encouraged by 20,000 empty seats at kickoff. DON’T LET IT HAPPEN ATL.
ATL1NETIME
September 28th, 2010
2:14 pm
Has anyone seen the Mr.”SEEN THIS B4″……………………………He seems a little “QUIET” this week….LOL………Go FALCONS
NO1 PICK
September 28th, 2010
2:15 pm
That is all of philliy, talking trash. Go team or bad, a lot of hot air.
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
2:15 pm
Haven’t SEEN him ! (Nice.)
Kane337
September 28th, 2010
2:15 pm
I’m not worried. Matt Ryan is 14-1 at the Georgia Dome. This will be a beatdown.
NO1 PICK
September 28th, 2010
2:15 pm
*GOOD team or…
ATL1NETIME
September 28th, 2010
2:16 pm
Mr. SEEN THIS B4…….Where are you…………….Is anybody out there……….LOL……..GUESS ALL SAINTS FANS ARE BACK IN DREWLOOOOOSIANA………………..LOL……SORRY….FOR ….ALL THIS FALCON FANS BUT I SPENT AN ENTIRE SUMMER LISTENING TO THE GARBAGE THAT WAS THEIR MIRICLE SEASON………GOOOOOO FALCONS!!!!!!!
Chop Buster
September 28th, 2010
2:17 pm
I swear some of you need Ritalin…keep focus on the topic. One person decides to bring up a name that has nothing to do with the upcoming game with the 49ers and it ends up hijacking this blog. Can you say…49ers discussion?
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:22 pm
Seen checked in and took his licks (and whined like a little girl) yesterday. Now he’s posting on kitty-cat boards. Here – he’s changing his name to NeverSeenAgain.
ATL1NETIME
September 28th, 2010
2:29 pm
Chop Buster…Didnt mean to get off topic but it looks like everything dealing with the 49ers has been said….thats why I chose to induce a little humor….On topic. The 49ers are not a very good team at the moment. They cannot stop the run. They are horrible on the road and coming to a dome where we have dominated during the Matt Ryan era. They just fired the Off. coordinator which means Singletary will have influence on Offense …..(guess we will see how that works out)….and right now the Falcons are clicking on all cylynders. If you believe we are set up for a letdown….I say….STOP LOOKING FOR A CRACK IN THE ARMOR…..Falcons will dominate Sunday…….See U at the Dome…on Sunday…….Go Falcons.
JONESBORO SLIM
September 28th, 2010
2:29 pm
I see no one remembers what was going on in the Falcons locker room after the Saints game…..the players were observed NOT “jumping for joy” over their victory of the Saints….but quietly going about their business and focussing on their accomplishment and looking to get ready for the next battle…..that was a quote on the radio from “color” radio announcer David Archer.
JONESBORO SLIM
September 28th, 2010
2:29 pm
I see no one remembers what was going on in the Falcons locker room after the Saints game…..the players were observed NOT “jumping for joy” over their victory of the Saints….but quietly going about their business and focussing on their accomplishment and looking to get ready for the next battle…..that was a quote on the radio from “color” radio announcer David Archer.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:39 pm
The Falcons will do what the Falcons do. On home games you can help….get in your seat early.
Do not encourage the 49ers by arriving late. You already know the turnstiles are he11 15 minutes before kickoff so no excuses. How about you “game plan” a little better.
Me…I’ll be in my seat 1 hr before kickoff razzing the 49ers o-line and d-line (they warm up 10 yards from my seat) and milking the refs as soon as they put their stripes on the field.
reckingball
September 28th, 2010
2:40 pm
I remember when the Falcons beat both the 9ers and the Rams in California one year(back in the old days), under Glanville.
The next season when the Falcons went out to the west coast to play their 1st game there, and it was against Frisco.
Glanville had a big trophy made that said the Falcons were the NFC Champions of the WestCoast for the prior year, which he proudly displayed in the middle of the field, and I believe he had shirts that said the same thing.
The 49ers didn’t like that too much, and were not amused.
The 49ers beat the Falcons 49 to 0 that day, or something like that, it was a major beatdown.
Good ole Jerry, he was a card.
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
2:43 pm
Yea, that WAS funny, but it sure did back-fire (and you could see it coming, pretty foolish.)
reckingball
September 28th, 2010
2:44 pm
Don’t be ascared of the 9ers, they can’t keep up with the Falcons.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:45 pm
Yeah and I remember a divsional playoff game (18-10) where the home team offense did not play very well but the home crowd absolutely ran the 49ers out of the stadium.
papadawg
September 28th, 2010
2:46 pm
I remember the Rams and the 49s beating the crap out of the Falcons every stinking time they played. Those were the days, right
SirReal
September 28th, 2010
2:48 pm
It’ll take Ryan and Co. to win a Super Bowl before we can stop talking about MV7. Love him or hate him, he’s gone and doing well so far after paying his dues. All the negative energy about Vick is nothing more than those who used to love him but feel scorned. Take your skirt off, put on some jeans, and get over it. We’re a new regime with a whole new mentality. These birds fly differently than those in the past. Lets focus on that and how well our team’s coming together shall we?
reckingball
September 28th, 2010
2:49 pm
Everyone knows, Glanville is the guy that told Favre that he would never make a QB in the NFL.
He traded Favre, and the next year, Favre beat the Falcons by running the ball into the end zone at the end of the game, for a GB win.
Good ole Jerry.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
2:52 pm
You mean back when Farve showed up for team meetings with a hangover?
Lucky for Farve Green Bay didn’t have a Peachtree Street.
reckingball
September 28th, 2010
2:57 pm
In one of those SF beatdowns of Atl, Steve Young threw a pass, caught it himself, and came within one yard of making a TD on the play.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
3:02 pm
The only 49ers game I choose to recall is when Big Play Ray picked Steve Young to seal the victory.
I swear, the crowd noise turned that good pass into a duck.
Hollywould
September 28th, 2010
3:02 pm
This coaching staff will not let the players let down. Any team in the NFL can beat another. Just take care of business.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
3:13 pm
Falcons are getting alot of love in this week’s power ranking samples.
SirReal
September 28th, 2010
3:14 pm
@Front Row Thanks for that memory!! I forgot about that game! It was a good one!
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
3:19 pm
No worries. My point is CROWD NOISE. We beat the Saints….now let’s show up the Saints crowd.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
3:29 pm
Some more CROWD NOISE memories…..2008 Chevis Jackson pick-six on Drew Brees followed by the Falcons fans serenading the WhoDats with a rousing WE DAT chant while they left the stadium.
You should really get down there. Only 7 games left this year.
waynester
September 28th, 2010
3:38 pm
Chopbuster
good grief man–the coaching staff and team have to remain focused on the SF game but as fans we can look ahead to any of the remaining games and lick our “chops”. Every fan has a team they feel an extra dose of animosity toward and for some of us, it’s the dadgum Eagles. If Reid running Vick out just to rub the Falcons’ nose in it wasn’t enough to piss you off–that’s you. For me, that was the last frickin’ straw. I already hated their stupid fans, city and team. Now I hate their coach and QB, too. Good ol’ fashioned HATE, buddy and I admit it, I’m also a sinner….
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
3:55 pm
waynester – save it. The Iggles fans left alot of history downing MV when he was a Falcon. Now they will get to spend week six eating those words.
The way this town runs, we need to start working on getting the seats filled at kickoff.
It would be a major embarrasment to follow last week’s victory with a crowd equivalent to the AZ game. Falcons fans are good at coming up with excuses but the WhoDats have more excuses and they still show up.
NO EXCUSES. The Saints players fed off the WhoDats last year. We need to present the Falcons players with a pleasant surprise at 1:00 Sunday. Not 1:15…..1:00 sharp.
Be there.
Chop Buster
September 28th, 2010
3:58 pm
Waynester I don’t have any problem discussing other teams. I’d just like to focus on the topic that DLED brought before us for discussion. Trust me I want to see our defense crush Vick and the Eagles as much as the next person. Let’s just take it one opponent at a time (just like our Falcons) and discuss the ones we’re about to face. We’ll have plenty of discussion about all the upcoming games I’m sure. I want get a little pay back as well–some of which we got on these Saints this past weekend. On to the next one now.
mark
September 28th, 2010
4:01 pm
No way this team let’s up, I will say it once again we learned our lesson in Pittsburg to always stay aggressive three times going for it on 4th down proves that. Only two teams in the history of league have gone undefeated in the regular season, so yes we will lose some more games maybe 2 or 3, but we will never be outplayed. Coach Smith and Thomas Dimitroff are loading this team up with guys that do not quit, or never give up. We are nasty in the trenches and punch people in the mouth. Pittsburg is the most physical team in the league with only Baltimore or Tennessee coming in 2nd, we are getting there and will be known for that soon enough.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
4:02 pm
Yeah and the payback is in OUR HOUSE. DEFEND THE DOME!
trap game
September 28th, 2010
4:02 pm
Am I the only 1 seeing this. The Saints game is done and the 49er’s are coming with what we had when we went to New Orleans. I think they’re coming to play and I think we’re going overboard on 1 win!
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
4:05 pm
trap….some of the first words out of MR#2’s mouth Sunday after the game was 49ers. So, no the Falcons will not overlook this game.
Now for your part. How pumped do you think the D-fence will be hearing 70,000 screaming partisans at 1:00 THIS Sunday?
Empty seats make no noise.
singhisking
September 28th, 2010
4:08 pm
i say 40burger 4the9ers
Chop Buster
September 28th, 2010
4:12 pm
The main thing I’m looking for in this game is to see consistency from our offense, defense and special teams. I know that if play to our full potential we can compete with the best of teams. Not that I’m taking the 49ers lightly, but we should be looking to open another can of whip “you know what” on them. No mercy!!!
Reid
September 28th, 2010
4:16 pm
I like how you put promoted in quotations
waynester
September 28th, 2010
4:18 pm
Frontrow
I gotcha. I can’t help it– whenever the Eagles come up so does my temper. Everybody’s got that one team that just rubs ‘em the wrong way and for me it’s always been danged Philly–even more than the Saints, Niners, Rams and the rest of our current divisional opponents. As for trying to rally the faithful–it’s been that way as long as I can remember whether the Dome or old ATLFulCo stadium, Braves, Hawks etc etc. The one thing I truly admire about the Saints is their rabid fanbase. Keep on keepin’ on–maybe only a superbowl win will get this city on board….
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
4:18 pm
Taking the Steelers to OT in their house on opening day is consistent.
Putting 41 on the Cardinals in OUR HOUSE is consistent.
Going 2-1 against 3 of the last 4 SB contestants is consistent.
The only thing not consistent – 20,000 empty seats at kickoff.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
4:23 pm
Waynester – spread the word. You are a regular on D3’s post. As soon as D3 posts this week we need to beat the drum and see if we can boost the turnout and support.
Look at it this way….if the Falcons TCB this year then we have a good chance of getting the Iggles here for the playoffs.
Shoot for that goal.
Joe Tess Fish Breath
September 28th, 2010
4:37 pm
looks like we weed out the Aints’ trolls, now we just need to eliminate John Tesh Fish House.
GWK
September 28th, 2010
4:38 pm
Okay, I have an issue with some of you so-called Falcon fans… I was at the game in New Orleans on Sunday and even though the Saints are sold out, there were a lot of Atlanta fans on the scene. It was pretty cool. But, I was embarrased for our team and the city of Atlanta by all the #7 Vick jerseys that people were wearing. Come on Man!!! Vick disrespected his teammates, Arthur Blank, the Falcons, the city of Atlanta and all the Falcons fans with his dog hobby. Sure he has paid the price for that but those facts remain. If you are a Falcons fan, you should be embarrassed to associate yourself with Vick; stop wearing Vick jerseys! If you are a Vick fan, go buy an Eagles jersey! That is where he plays now, not in ATLANTA!
Falconidiot
September 28th, 2010
4:55 pm
I think the 9ers will roll over or get rolled. I think they know it’s time to get rid of their coach. The Falcons are still not clicking on all cylinders. They are going to get a lot better this year as their confidence builds and Harry Douglas starts getting hit with those bombs then they’ll spread the field and use Pelle and Mugheli to eat teams up. Decoud is everywhere and a little green, things should settle down the next couple weeks and hopefully we are peaking @Philly. Go Birds!
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
4:56 pm
GWK have you looked at the price of a jersey lately? Have you ever noticed that alot of fans buy a jersey to keep and wear for a long time?
When MV was here his jersey was worth having. He was playing the good citizen role and all that but was keeping a secret. Hence, some of us like him and some of us hate him but only the dumbest or richest burned their $70 jerseys.
Since then, we haven’t trusted longevity of any player. I also have Brooking, Kerney, Price, Reese, Sanders, etc, etc, etc.
Now I have a Tony Gonzales but only because they were half price at the stadium last week.
Whatever jersey as long as they are representing. I call for – this week – ALL BLACK..lets have a BLACKOUT.
Mr. Turnip-Green Jeans
September 28th, 2010
5:07 pm
Here’s a pretty good look at the best defense I ever witnessed, the 1977 Atlanta Falcons Grits Blitz Defense.
Jerry Glanville – Defensive Coordinator
129-points allowed in entire 77′ season. Record for fewest points ever allowed in 14-games.
Allowed less than 100-yds. per game passing.
A harder hitting defense has never taken the field.
Here’s the vid.. Enjoy.
http://xrl.us/GritsBlitz
Falcon Jim
September 28th, 2010
5:45 pm
Mr. Green Jeans,
Great vid. Showed my 21 year old son. HE WAS AMAZED ! !
(I always wondered why you and dancing bear were never seen together. mmmmmmmmmmmmm.)
alanfalcon
September 28th, 2010
5:48 pm
Smitty, we are ripe for an upset after the big win against the Saints, the next two opponents will be looking to establish their programs and will go all out to take us down.
These next two games will tell us what type of leadership we have on both sides of the line and hopefully establish some type of Special teams sucess.
GO FALCONS AND GO SOUTHERN RUSH, NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO WALLER IN YOUR SUCESS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
KevKat
September 28th, 2010
6:06 pm
Trap game? Are you guys kidding me? These Falcons know they must beat the teams they should beat and hang tough and give themselves a chance to beat teams just as good or supposedly better than they are. If this were a road game against the Niners maybe but not this time..Falcons continue to make a statement and win comfortably.
oldestfalconfan
September 28th, 2010
6:07 pm
I still say first 6 ballgames is coaching after that it is the players.We still need a big time pass rusher.Jenkins can sit out one more game if it were up to me.If Matty gets comfortable niners watch out.Let me ask one question DOES DEION SANDERS KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT FOOTBALL?I heard him say mhim and Vick were main man together.
Keith
September 28th, 2010
6:23 pm
Re: GWK
Frustrating for me, too. Vick jerseys shouldn’t be worn anymore.
waynester
September 28th, 2010
6:31 pm
Now somebody’s marketing a half-and-half ATL/PHI #7 jersey–it’s BLASPHEMY for those colors to ever come together I tells ya’ it’s an atrociomouscy, Edith….
Keith
September 28th, 2010
6:55 pm
Yes, Vick tarnished this city and franchise. Hope he’s better for it and has learned lessons, but nothing about #7 on a Falcons jersey is a reminder of good things…at least not in my mind.
FrontRow
September 28th, 2010
7:24 pm
Now if you really want a MV jersey get a VT#7
marlon cosey
September 28th, 2010
7:26 pm
wass up 2 all the falcon fans out there… 2 me I think that was our super bowl 4 the year… If there are n.e. non-belivers still out there… we still have room 4 u 2 jump on the band-wagon… This week I hope that ATL smashes the ‘9ers cuz I’ve been tellin’ sum of these clowns that the dirty birds are 4 real, now… Big ups to J-Norwood…. Get better real soon…. big ups 2 J Snelling… Mike “the burner” Turner and the rest of the crew… Just please go out and smash everybody startin with these crazy ‘9ers…Their fans are still stuck in the ’80s… I wish they would turn up the clock to 2010-2011…
Paddy O
September 28th, 2010
7:36 pm
this game makes me nervous – i thought Singletary was a good headcoach, now having second thoughts, but he was still awesome on the Bears. So, it is a toss up: we win either close, 21-14, or not so close, maybe 35-21. It is still too early to know exactly how this team will play – our special teams need help, and our coverage transition is sloppy. Our offense, led by Matt Ryan, has played fantastic – anyone want to comment on how our O line & D line will perform? In the NO game, I noticed Colston did not do much – is that Dunta delivering? If our run game is operating, as stated b4, the Snelling/Turner combo is fantastic (we still need a Dave Meggett type back with Jerrious out – next draft!); plus, you have no idea where Ryan will fling the ball – no turnovers last week, none the week before. I personally am interested in seeing how we shut down the niners receivers & if we get good pressure on the QB. We now have a team where you have multiple worries, both on offense & defense, when you play us – it makes us a challenging team to confront!
Paddy O
September 28th, 2010
7:37 pm
hey, if any one wants a very lightly used Vick 7 ATL, I’ll sell it to you for the right price.
Paddy O
September 28th, 2010
7:41 pm
Vick did the organization and society wrong, he got off easy with 2 years – should have been 6 months per dog. He clearly lied to Goodell & Blank, then stole about 20 million he did not earn. The guy is about as ghetto as you can get – but, he is fast as quicksilver. Can’t root for him, but am still amazed by his speed & acceleration. Used to admire & root for him.
lexluther
September 28th, 2010
9:25 pm
Why are so many Falcon fans still talking about Michael Vick? The guy made his mistakes, paid his debt to society and now is doing a great job in Philly. Let’s move on shall we. I could see if he own each of you some money or something. Atlanta is doing fairly well without Mr. Vick and are an excellent product this year. Let’s try to focus on putting forth that same effort every sunday to push them over the top. LET’S GO FALCONS. …DO THE DAMN THANG@!!!
lexluther
September 28th, 2010
9:28 pm
Paddy O sounds like you need a hug. Get a life or a grip. Wipe your tears and keep it moving. Damn baby….
2Legit2quit
September 28th, 2010
9:57 pm
Mr. Turnip-Green Jeans
Great link, I hate to admit but I miss old crazy blitz loving glanville from time to time. Does anyone know why Fin did not play last week or if Jenkins is playing this week. HD dropped two easy passes
Pete
September 28th, 2010
11:05 pm
Smitty will never let his troops look past any team, no matter what their record.
Ever,
Falcon Jim
September 29th, 2010
12:24 am
Mr Green Jeans,
How is the Captain and Bunny Rabbit and Mr. Moose and Grandfather Clock and Dancing Bear and all the ping-pong-balls?
Pooh
September 29th, 2010
9:42 am
Birds 31 Niners 10. There will be no let down. Rise Up!
Tony
September 29th, 2010
10:12 am
If the Falcons lose the New Orleans game is a wash. I don’t think it will happen. The defense needs to continue to press and establish an identity of put a foot on the throat of the opponents and not the old bend don’t break mentality.
DK
September 29th, 2010
10:34 am
Pooh said “Birds 31 Niners 10″
Sorry Pooh but the score won’t be that close.
Joe Tess Fish House
September 29th, 2010
10:37 am
Joe Tess aint goin nowhere!
benjamin
September 29th, 2010
10:57 am
I see another blow-out ala Cardinals…
Old Dawg
September 29th, 2010
12:50 pm
I wish the Falcons kept their throwback uniforms all the time. The current uni truly stinks. Like Terry Bradshaw said when they were unveiled, they’re butt ugly.
Wish Blank would listen to fans on this issue.
Once "Recent" Reader
September 29th, 2010
1:08 pm
The mob is very fickle I see. How different from the “same old Falcons” posts here after the Steelers game. Now there were a few that indicated Pittsburgh was a tough team at home . . .only one game. But . . . .I’m glad that the Falcs have played well enough the past two weeks to convert the Week 1 nay-sayers. Still a long season . . . ..and a very schitzo 49er team this weak. Hope we don’t get the team that almost beat the Saints.
Bobcat
September 29th, 2010
2:43 pm
I agree Old Dawg. I love the old uniforms.
Bluto
September 29th, 2010
3:46 pm
Joe Tess Fish House
September 28th, 2010
1:35 pm
If my QB yelled at me, he would have a broken leg.
LOL more tough talk from internet tough guy And T.O. jock strap
Getaway
September 29th, 2010
4:19 pm
As a long time Falcon fan, you can’t read enought articles like this from Fox Sports:
San Francisco at Atlanta: You could make the argument recently axed offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye was the sacrificial lamb in San Francisco this week. The offense has been underwhelming, sure, but the defense isn’t exactly shutting it down, either. The 49ers D, thought to have been the team’s strength, has given up the second-most points in the league through three games. The Falcons went out to San Francisco and beat the Niners, 45-10, last year. They may give the Niners a worse beating on Sunday.
The Pick: Falcons 41, 49ers 20
Falcons Season Ticket Holder
September 29th, 2010
4:32 pm
Falcons fans…. If you are coming out to see the game, show up on time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I DO NOT understand why everyone is not in their seats at kickoff.. The Falcons deserve the homefield advantage that other NFL teams get when they come out in front of their fans.. This team has been 14-3 over the last 3 seasons at the GA Dome.. The least you can do is get in there and make it a living hell for the 49ers and every opponent they face week after week. My prediction of the game is Falcons 42 49ers 13… The Falcons will RISE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
pd
September 29th, 2010
8:14 pm
Looking at the various schedules, the Falcons could certainly be hosting the NFC Championship game this year. Don’t forget, Ryan dragged BC to a number 2 national ranking for several weeks in his senior season. Kid wins and wins and wins. And how old is he, 25? Yikes.
Falconfan
September 29th, 2010
8:25 pm
Great win last week FALCONS! Way to beat the SAINTS in their house! They were “Americas team” and I was so sick of hearing about them! Its about time somebody beat them and I couldnt be more proud of the FALCONS for doing it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BEAT the 49ers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
Falconfan
September 29th, 2010
8:26 pm
LOVE the Falcons THROWBACK UNIFORMS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dennis
September 29th, 2010
10:53 pm
And there was the game in Fulton County Stadium that was the site of the greatest fight ever seen on a football field. Even the crips-on-crutches hobbled out to get some.
That may have been the same game at which the Troy State marching band did the half-time show and performed the greatest rendition of Dixie I’ve ever heard. Yeah, it was a rocking day, for sure.
waynelaster
September 30th, 2010
9:16 am
I am waiting on the Falcons to run a few trick plays. You know its coming, its a perfect situation. Teams are stacking the box & I can vision Turner throwing a pass.