Exclusive: VanGorder, Lewis discuss improved defense
Falcons safety William Moore, right, picks up a fumble by Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis. Associated Press
FLOWERY BRANCH – We checked defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder and secondary coach Tim Lewis for a Sunday story on the improved play of the defense.
The unit is leading the league in interceptions with 10, by nine different players. They have 11 sacks by six different players.
“I think it’s a product of playing fast,” VanGorder said. ”Again, for some of our younger players the game is slowing down for them. They are seeing things better. But mainly it comes from a group playing hard and playing faster.”
The Falcons have faced starting quarterback Dennis Dixon, Derek Anderson, Drew Brees, Alex Smith and Seneca Wallace. They are getting ready to face Kevin Kolb on Sunday.
It’s unclear if the unit will be able to sustain its high-level of play when they face top-shelf quarterbacks.
“Guys have to come in every week and continue to approach everything from a professional level to get some consistency in how they perform,” VanGorder said. “They have to work in practice and right through the week as we prepare for a game.”
Defensive tackle Corey Peters, the team’s third round draft pick, has been solid.
“He’s still has a lot of work to do, but he’s a good young player,” VanGorder said. “He’s been real solid for us here through five games.”
The pass defense will have to hold up over the long haul.
“It starts with a good pass rush,” VanGorder said. “The pass rush has been more consistent this year. Again, you guys like to look at sacks and we like sacks too, but pressure on quarterbacks and how you effect the quarterback has been real solid for us.”
VanGorder has been pleased with first round pick Sean Weatherspoon, too. However, he’s likely to miss Sunday’s game against the
William Moore may get to a start against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.
Eagles.
“The addition of Sean Weatherspoon has been good for us in a number of situations in game,” VanGorder said. “There are a lot of guys doing a good job right now.”
Lewis is a former defensive coordinator and was brought in to oversee the remaking of the secondary.
“Leading the league in interception thing is a by product of a bunch of different things,” Lewis said. “The defensive line is doing a fantastic job of rushing the passer and affecting him. The signal caller, Brian is doing a great job of calling the plays and putting them in position to make plays and we’ve been lucky. Sometimes it bounces the right way.”
The staff went ahead an announced that William Moore had won the starting strong safety job this week. Erik Coleman was injured in the Pittsburgh game, but has been active for the last two games.
“We are fortunate to have two really good football players in Erik and William,” Lewis said. ”William got an opportunity to go in when Erik was injured and is doing a fantastic job. He brings size, strength and speed, all that skill that you need to be successful at that position. He’s made some plays.
“It’s just like everything else, you don’t want to upset the apple cart if the guy has a hot hand. You just keep rolling with him and that’s what we’ve done. He’s done a good job of assuming the role. He works very hard and diligent.”
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93 comments Add your comment
DePlane
October 15th, 2010
8:42 pm
Whoops, darn new fangled deevices! Sorry about the double post.
DePlane
October 15th, 2010
8:48 pm
I think we’re going to Philly on a mission. The Falcons are going to dish the pain for the classless way the Smeagles acted out during the game here last year.
Joe Tess Fish House
October 15th, 2010
8:56 pm
why everone call me names? I just trying to make a pont.
SawThat1nce
October 15th, 2010
9:01 pm
I believe that the Falcons are going to handle the Eagles pretty well.
The Falcons defense will probably be on the field about 20 minutes, total.
The Eagles aren’t very good at stopping the run(24th in NFL), and their OL has allowed 19 sacks on their QBs(2nd most in NFL).
I’ll take the Falcons and 3, anytime.
Falcons will win by at least 14pts.
SawThat1nce
October 15th, 2010
9:05 pm
Joe ……… Why don’t you go have another drink, and fry-up a mess of mullet, buddy. Get ready to watch the feathers fly this Sunday.
DePlane
October 15th, 2010
9:11 pm
JTFH…you remind of that song with that verse “why’s everybody always pickin’ on me?” Hmmm…I wonder….
Falcon Jim
October 16th, 2010
12:34 am
SeenThisB4,
Say goodnight to your boyfriend, Cheese Steak.
Mountain Falcon
October 16th, 2010
6:48 am
A great pass rush and a solid run defense have helped many teams win championships in the NFL.
Keep up the great work guys,
Will Abe play this week?
J D W
October 16th, 2010
7:20 am
Abe, have not heard otherwise, he’s not listed questionable or probaby – he’s playing. The Falcons win if the Coaches have the game plan and team ready, Reid will put MV7 in early if Kolb flutters, that’s what i want to see. Don’t want to hear the excusses Sunday night after we kick their “Eaglettes” A$$, because you know its coming – They will start early blowing hot air, “the Falcons think they beat our best”, BS. The eaglettes on there best day with the current team they have cannot beat the Falcons—————– Go Falcons
Chop Buster
October 16th, 2010
8:31 am
I like the way the defense has been playing so far. Of course there are minor things to clean up (too soft in coverage–even though I know they’re in zone, wrap up and tackle, and don’t get caught up in OL blocking). As they season goes on these guys can only get better. We need our front four to really get after Kolb and bring the coverage in closer for the quick west coast slants. If we can force Kolb to throw the ball early we can hopefully get some easy picks. Go Falcons D!!! Shut em’ down.
RobbE33
October 16th, 2010
8:44 am
Good things happen when hard work, commitment and intelligence come together. What a refreshing change from the Falcons of old. Even if they don’t win the Super Bowl this year, the Falcons professionalism has allowed their fans pride and validation we’ve not experienced in quite some time.
SawThat1nce
October 16th, 2010
9:12 am
The Falcons are the No. 1 team in the NFC, by record.
Falcon Jim
October 16th, 2010
9:55 am
Phish-Breath, keep up the swamp humor, man. You must work hard at thinking this stuff up.
The Falcons will “hit em in da head with a stomp.”
Dennis
October 16th, 2010
10:52 am
All you keyboard kommandos who poo-poo a knee sprain have never had one. I’ve had’em and I’ve treated’em. They are bad news.
JTFH – you are in fact entitled to your own opinion. Perhaps you’d be better received if you “spoke” the same kind of English as the rest of us.
FrontRow
October 16th, 2010
12:12 pm
The more things change the more they stay the same..
Last year at this the Falcons were 4-1 but everyone was clamoring for a coordinators job. Last year the couch potato GMs wanted BVG’s head on a block.
This year BVG is a genius and Mularkey is in (almost) every fantasy GM’s cross-hairs.
Now for a little reality – neither of these guys have changed very much. It’s time to get behind the team (including the coordiantors) or find a new team to root for.
Falcon Jim
October 16th, 2010
12:39 pm
Great comment FrontRow !
Mr. Mustard
October 16th, 2010
12:54 pm
In 3 years Thomas Dimitroff and Coach Smith have turned the Falcons’ defense around, from a group of slow players, with little depth, to one of the youngest and fastest in the league. This defense is now leading in many catagories, not the least of which is points allowed. We also enjoyed modest success while rebuilding. That is good work.
This is a time for enjoyment, because this is just the beginning of a long streak of success, in my opinion and the numbers and wins are supporting that opinion.
Coach Smith has handled Jamaal Anderson excellently, along with William Moore, and Peria Jerry. We are keeping our draft picks, and selectively signing free agents, such as Dunta Robinson and we have depth, talent, speed and we are drafting very well.
Where did Kroy Bierman come from, but he is making plays and our staff puts him in a position to prosper, as they are doing with the organization.
Some people cannot be happy unless they are mad, and are unable or unwilling to admit to other’s successes.
I saw that Sharpe guy on the NFL network rave about Witherspoon, a few weeks ago. But yeah, this rookie who is starting in the NFL is a bust because he hurt his knee.
You know what, I don’t think we are as good as our 4-1 record yet, but I think we are winning due to great coaching. I sit back in pleasant amazement as this Falcons’ franchise makes all the right moves, and we are a year or two away from being perennial Super Bowl contenders on par with Pittsburg, New England and Indianapolis.
We will be because Dimitroff is taking the long view, and sticking to his excellent plan of adding talent through the draft and being consistent with coaching techniques.
The survey Arthur Blank commissioned said: the successful organizations keep the same schemes, stay with their coaches (once they have good ones,) and don’t depend on free agency to win.
We have what we have wanted for (what) 40 years? An excellent franchise.
I submit to you that if Matt Ryan were playing for Buffalo, or Oakland he would not be successful. He is now being reasonably successful because our coaches know how to play to his strengths.
Finally, finally we have excellent management and man it is showing. Be happy. We have been down long enough, it is okay to enjoy yourself.
Falcon Jim
October 16th, 2010
1:31 pm
Kroy Bierman was drafted in 2008 from Montana. He was a Mountain Conference(?) player of the year.
dirty bird
October 16th, 2010
5:27 pm
i think everyone is forgetting our best D linemen the past two years has been J Babineux, sorry if i spelled it wrong this is a football blog not a spellling bee, BVG is finally getting players to fit his system so i think its just gonna get nastier with more swagger. I know i dont have to say it but JTFH is a moron, Spoon a bust? Please…. how many games did W Moore play last year? some bust he turned out to be. BVG is gettin his players Peters and Jerry are playing solid and Bierman was a strait up steal, reminds me of Jared Allen who was also drafted out a small school.
SawThat1nce
October 16th, 2010
5:48 pm
The Falcons must be as good as their 4-1 record, or else they would not be 4-1. They might of been 5-0, if Coach Smith had attempted to score at the end of the Steelers game, instead of letting the clock run out in regulation time, and allowing the game to go into OT.
dirty bird
October 16th, 2010
6:04 pm
I dont know how but its like Curtis Lofton is flying under the radar or something. Hes turned himself into one of the most consitent LB’s in the NFL and is always at the very top of the takles list. A great 4-3 D needs a beast at middle LB and we have that in Lofton for sure.
and lets not forget another reason why our D has played so well…….our smashmouth running game keeps them off the field with fresh legs
waynelaster
October 16th, 2010
6:20 pm
I agree talk football. Injuries happen to all palyers. How can Spoon be a bust he plays injured often and still shine. I am very satisfied with the Falcons & cant wait until we meet the Steelers in the Super Bowl lol
SawThat1nce
October 16th, 2010
6:24 pm
Today the Falcons are the top team in the NFC, and that is by the won/loss record and tie-breakers.
Big Ray
October 16th, 2010
8:15 pm
Weatherspoon is anything BUT a bust.
Would you have called William Moore a bust because he was out all of last year, his rookie season? Look at him now .
Big Ray
October 16th, 2010
8:19 pm
Guys stop focusing on me and discus the Flacons and there problems or as some you seem 2 think that they dont have problems
Now who in the heck can concentrate when they’re reading things like that? I couldn’t stop laughing. “Flacons?” Come on, man….
If you’re going to be that negative, quit giving us so many reasons to laugh…
Falcon Jim
October 16th, 2010
8:38 pm
He makes me laugh. It’s that weird swamp dialect. He is Jr. Samples from the alligator pit.
“Hit em in da head w/ da stomp!”
FrontRow
October 16th, 2010
10:07 pm
Only problem the Falcons have right now is the Eagles.
Falcon Jim
October 16th, 2010
11:57 pm
FrontRow,
Can’t wait, buddy. Twelve hours !!!!
Ye Ha. Go Falcons ! ! ! !
SawThat1nce
October 17th, 2010
2:08 am
Mr. Mustard……Matt Ryan is “reasonably successful”?
What is the Falcons record, in the games that Ryan has started and completed, since he came to Atl. in 2008.
I ’submit to you’ that Tom Brady or Payton Manning would not be successful, if they were playing for Oakland or Buffalo.
THE OBGYN
October 17th, 2010
8:27 am
DOB, I am officially requesting a translator for that guy.
Sawthat1nce,
I’d say that oakland or buffalo would be exponentially improved if they were there. They wouldn’t be colts or patriots but low end playoff teams or ones that just miss out.
Mr. Mustard
October 17th, 2010
10:06 am
Hey SawThat1nce, you make very good points. Matt Ryan is a winner and that is the bottom line isn’t it?
My point about Ryan (who I like alot!) is that he does not have the cannon arm, nor the blinding speed, and at this point in his career I don’t believe his arm can carry us when the running game is not working. He is not raw superstar talent, but that does not mean he is not or will be great.
Look at Joe Montana, a third round pick without the great arm or speed but that guy was the best, in my opinion. I see alot of Montana in Ryan and I guess it could be said about anyone, as you rightfully point out:
Many of the great players who had great success, also had darn good coaches and organizations behind them.
What I do like about Ryan, and I do believe he can (and will) win us a Super Bowl or two is that he never quits, even when he screws up. The San Francisco game is the perfect example. He threw that interception, and game over, but not! Roddy gave us another chance.
We were on our own what 11 yard line or something like that, with less than 2 minutes and Ryan nailed it. He HAD to make perfect passes, and he did. Especially that out pattern to Roddy. It HAD to be a perfect throw and as well as a perfect catch and they did it. We all know the rest.
Matt Ryan is a winner and we are lucky to have him, but I am more happy with our organization. They are pros, and I enjoy watching management build this franchise as much as I enojoy watching the games.
Jim Thorpe would struggle in Oakland.
Hope you have a great game day, and go Falcons. I say we beat the Eagles 21-10.
Mr. Mustard
October 17th, 2010
10:38 am
Yeah man, you guys are right on. Babineaux, Lofton, are more good draftees. We have ourselves the makings of a great defense for years to come.
I think Jamal Anderson got a sack last week. What is that for him, two in 4 or 5 years? I say that if proof! And I am going to buy a lottery ticket today.
Mr. Mustard
October 17th, 2010
10:39 am
Sorry about the typos, need more coffee and to slow down. Can’t wait for kickoff.
SawThat1nce
October 17th, 2010
11:59 am
I believe that a QB, that can throw a 55 to 60 yd. TD pass, has a pretty darn good arm.
The Falcons do have one of the best organizations in the NFL, and it does benefit Ryan and all of his teammates.
When the Falcons play, it is allways a team effort, and they don’t give up.
Like the analyst said in last weeks game broadcast, the Falcons play every down, until the echo of the whistle.
stendek
October 17th, 2010
2:37 pm
Improved defense? Forgive my outrageous laughter. That said…
Thug criminal son of betch Michael Sick is laughing his a$$ off. Thanks Falcons. Appreciate you throwing this one Matt Ryan. That is obvious to all true Falcon fans. Dante Robinson only Falcon with any pride or desire. Too bad Dante is hurt not Ryan. Other Falcons heartless ball-less oxygen wastes. So very sad. To Hell with all of em. GO SAINTS! Plus…GO GIANTS! STENDEK
Steve
October 17th, 2010
4:08 pm
Wow, where is that new and improved defense??????? Totally outcoached and outclassed this game. Will the real Falcons please stand up??????
stendek
October 17th, 2010
4:26 pm
Falcons surrendered in Pennsylvania. Again. Total crap. Elite teams do not get blown out by teams like Eagles. Matt Ryan total washout. Thanks for late giveaway. A$$hole. Wish different guy was behind center for Falcons. Worthless loser. Crybaby to boot. Only fire jerk displayed was after his coughup job with team in 31-17 hole. Way to put on a meaningless show bestard. Only two Falcons played with heart. My thanks to Dante Robinson and Tony Gonzalez. Appreciate effort fellows. Mike Petrino should have passed up that extra night with Philly hooker to prepare defense. Falcon defense was even more clueless than offense. Truly sad. Saints will now win division. Falcons will be damn lucky to earn playoff berth. So very sad. Another season in toilet. STENDEK
Improved?
October 17th, 2010
5:35 pm
The falcons D stunk it up against a mediocre QB—is that what they mean by “improved?”
Greg from Marietta
October 17th, 2010
6:50 pm
The Falcons got out played, out coached, and out hustled in their loss to the Eagles today. Enough said!!!!!
SCFalcon
October 19th, 2010
10:42 pm
Write your anti NFL slogans on your pink undershirt. When you RISE UP, you LIFT UP and SHOUT IT UP as you WALK UP and out.
Oh and no concessions purchases during the walkout. So you have to DRY UP at the same time.
LET’S DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SCFalcon
October 19th, 2010
10:42 pm
Sunday all fans should get up in masse and walk out of the stadium during the first series to make a statement to the NFL……
…..then they all walk back in with pink panties on there heads to drive the point home.
SCFalcon
October 19th, 2010
10:43 pm
Falcon Jim
October 19th, 2010
10:07 pm
SCFalcon, WHOA YEA. DO IT! DO IT!
GOTTA GET EVERYBODY TOGETHER ON THIS.
Show the league we support D Robinson and disagree with where they are going. !
RISE UP ! ! !
SCFalcon
October 19th, 2010
10:43 pm
Plant this message on the other blogs on this website. Then plant it on SI Fox Sports and other sites.
Let’s do it! NOW! RISE UP! – RAISE UP! – MOVE UP