INJURY REPORT: Williams DNP, Christopher Owens is up

101128 Atlanta - The Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders perform between the 1st and 2nd quarter at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta on Sunday, Nov. 28, 2010.  Curtis Compton ccompton@ajc.com

101128 Atlanta - The Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders perform between the 1st and 2nd quarter at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta on Sunday, Nov. 28, 2010. Curtis Compton ccompton@ajc.com

FLOWERY BRANCH — The Falcons appear set to face Green Bay’s high voltage passing attack, which was fifth in the league while averaging 257.8 yards, without their top nickel back.

Brian Williams, who suffered a knee injury in the season finale against Carolina, did not practice on Friday. He has not practiced since suffering the injury and it would be unlikely for head coach Mike Smith to put him on the field without any practice in two weeks.

Williams is officially listed as doubtful for the game, meaning that the team is 75 percent certain that he will not play.

Defensive end John Abraham (groin), defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux (shoulder), middle linebacker Curtis Lofton (limited), wide receiver Roddy White (knee) and safety Thomas DeCoud (ankle) all fully

Atlanta Falcons' Chris Owens, right, intercepts a pass intended for Buffalo Bills' Terrell Owens, left, in the second quarter of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009, in Atlanta.  (AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser)

Atlanta Falcons' Chris Owens, right, intercepts a pass intended for Buffalo Bills' Terrell Owens, left, in the second quarter of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser)

participated in practice and were listed as questionable for the game.

All are expected to play.

With Williams likely out, second-year man Christopher Owens will take back over at nickel back.

Owens, a third round pick from San Jose State in 2009, played extensively as a rookie and finished the season as the starting left cornerback. He opened the 2010 season as the top nickel back  while Williams was working his way back from offseason knee surgery.

Owens was heavily targeted against Cincinnati and made 13 tackles. Williams took over as the top nickel back the following week against Tampa Bay and helped to stabilize the young secondary.

–D. Orlando Ledbetter

Get instant updates on Twitter at AJCFalcons and you can join the Facebook Fan page at AJC Falcons.

111 comments Add your comment

Ryan

January 14th, 2011
2:58 pm

senior falcon

January 14th, 2011
3:01 pm

Doesn’t sound like much recovery took place during the bye week. Oh well, the reserves have to “rise up”.

Najeh Davenpoop

January 14th, 2011
3:01 pm

-D, AJC staff,

Will MARTA be running Sat night because of all the downtown events, Falcons game? Online schedule doesn’t say anything about special change for this weekend.

Falco

January 14th, 2011
3:08 pm

Everybody and their brother are picking the pack. Can’t we just forfeit this game so we’re not embarrassed on our home turf?

Whole lot easier.

Outdoor Man

January 14th, 2011
3:18 pm

This is not good. I still think we can win, but the offense will have to open it up and play a great error free game. We will also need a Defensive touchdown or something special from special teams. Our secondary was a joke with Owens in there, He is just not that good at the nickel spot. If the Bengals could light us up with him in the game what do you think Green Bay is going to do. . .What was the training staff doing the last two weeks. With a healthy Brian Williams our Defense was looking great. Crap. . .

Jake the Snake

January 14th, 2011
3:19 pm

Falco, go away poser. Time to get the Dome rocking this Saturday night folks. Looking forward to a hard fought win.

Falco

January 14th, 2011
3:21 pm

Chill Will

January 14th, 2011
3:27 pm

All those players will play except Williams; I wasn’t happy with his play against the Saints anyway.

SOUTH GA DAWG FAN

January 14th, 2011
3:30 pm

what about the packers injuries wasn’t driver injured against the eagles

Falcon James

January 14th, 2011
3:32 pm

this not real good news. i just wonder if Dunte “Overpaid” Robinson will pick up his game or will he be the under performer he be all season.

Post-it

January 14th, 2011
3:33 pm

When you consider how many of our starters are healthy, we shouldn’t sweat it with Williams. Look at what GB has had to deal with.

PMC

January 14th, 2011
3:36 pm

This is fine, Chris Owens has made strides this year. This is an opportunity for him to step up and earn a spot like Grimetime did when Williams went down with a knee a while ago.

Relax. Owens is really athletic and coming into his own. Williams can lay out this week and be ready for next week.

Stirg d'Nahsif

January 14th, 2011
3:36 pm

Ahh, damn. You going to have to step up, C.O. You will be targeted, often.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 14th, 2011
3:40 pm

Najeh — I’ve got to check on the Marta deal. It should be running.

C.O is up! He’s a tough kid from Compton. He played with James Jones at San Jose State.

BirdDirty

January 14th, 2011
3:41 pm

So are we going to activate another corner off the practice squad? Dominique Franks? All of a sudden, we are very thin at corner.

Harris

January 14th, 2011
3:41 pm

Real smart to play him in that tough carolina game

BirdDirty

January 14th, 2011
3:42 pm

Can Erik Coleman play corner in a pinch?

DivaVEE

January 14th, 2011
3:43 pm

Where is our Faith? Falcons Fan RISE UP! We came this far as a TEAM besides, The Falcons will play better in the playoff! Just keep the faith. We do not need the media or others to tell us our team deserves to be 1st seed our 13-3 (reguardless how we won) speaks for itself.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 14th, 2011
3:44 pm

Wonder if they would consider using Erik Coleman as the nickel back. I better make some calls.

Captain Kirk

January 14th, 2011
3:49 pm

Our pass D really , really concerns me, specially against an effectuve QB like Rogers..I went back and wwatched the Nov matchup with them on NFL network and became more concerned as it wasnt a decisive win…..without that facemask penalty on Weem’s return..who knows..

Ive been waitn 32 yrs for this day..every Sunday since 76 and I have VIVID meneories of the meltdown vs the Cowboys in Jan ‘81..as we had already beaten the IGGLes who went on to beat Dallas onlt to lose to Raiders in the Super Bowl..

I have VIVID memories of that Jan nite in 81 when all of is city wide had our hearts broken .I even found the Dallas drive on You Tube and watched Danny Whites pass sail in between Rolland Lawrence and the other DB….the safty was way way late in gettin over or it wouldve been an INT on Whites underthrown ball..

I realize that many other longtime fans share this same dread as I do.. but Ill be here in central Arkansas with my 98 NFC champion hat on….and lest get in Rogers face just like we did against Brees..and as good as Rogers is, hes not BRees and we ruffled his feathers all nite

Lets take this one to the house

BirdDirty

January 14th, 2011
3:56 pm

DOL, did you wonder about Coleman playing CB after I mentioned it, lol!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

January 14th, 2011
3:59 pm

Using Coleman would reflect on that three-headed monster you talked about, way back when we drafted Will.Mo’. It would be wise to play him (E. Coleman).

sleeze

January 14th, 2011
4:04 pm

It’s over. We got no chance.

BEVO

January 14th, 2011
4:05 pm

Such wuss and picky Falcon fans. Just Butch up and pull for the team dammit.

Bossmare

January 14th, 2011
4:08 pm

Can someone post on the Board if they find out about extra trains running please.

D Money

January 14th, 2011
4:15 pm

Thanks or saying that BEVO

TroupDawg

January 14th, 2011
4:16 pm

Have William Moore deliver some of his devastating hits that he’s becoming known for and it won’t matter who plays nickel. Gpack may want change from that nickel after a WilMo hit. HAHA!!

Mountain Man

January 14th, 2011
4:18 pm

I think Owens in for Williams in the nickel will be fine. No matter who is back there, we need to make good tackles. Don’t let them break into the second and third levels. Pressure from the front 4 will be key, and when we do get to Rogers, get him to the ground.

If we whiff on tackles like the NO game, we’re toast.

Joe Horn

January 14th, 2011
4:20 pm

DOL. What is your take on the roster spot for Williams. Do they insert the rookie Franks? Do you have to have him when they go four wide. Or can one of the safeties cover the slot. What about activating all three TE’s and make the pass rushing OLB’s cover underneath and in the flat?

BEVO

January 14th, 2011
4:22 pm

This isn’t 1980. You are going to see a rested and well prepared team this Saturday night. You all will be saying out loud whay I’ve been saying all year..”this just can’t be the Falcons”!!!!

cwltank

January 14th, 2011
4:37 pm

Coleman is too slow to cover a slot receiver. I love Coleman but hes a step slow, he is only a safety. Owens has speed, something Williams lacked. I think I counted 5 missed tackles against the Saints by William. So Owens is an upgrade, I’m just saying. lol

I would like to reiterate my opinion on Finnerman, he has bounced back. He has blocked and caught the ball better than expected. Go Finnerman.

Bart's Boy

January 14th, 2011
5:04 pm

Do we have any cheer leaders younger than 30?

time for timer

January 14th, 2011
5:04 pm

i got a hankering for a hunka, a slice, a slab. a chunka, i got a hankering for a hunk of cheese

mrzizzle

January 14th, 2011
5:07 pm

Go Falcons! Let’s Do This! If there are any Saints fans still visiting this site, I have 2 words for you…Marshawn Lynch! Boo-Yeah!

Packer Paul

January 14th, 2011
5:31 pm

The trains are not running. Sorry but you will all have tostay home and watch it on TV.:) :) :)

BigHittas

January 14th, 2011
5:36 pm

I really hope 21 has a big game. Boy, it’s time for it.

cheesehead

January 14th, 2011
5:40 pm

@time for timer…..is that a wagon wheel?

Go Pack Go!

Wisconsin Packer/Skynyrd Fan

January 14th, 2011
6:04 pm

This game will be an instant classic….can’t wait for Saturday Night! It’s Christmas and New Years all rolled into one here in Wisconsin!! Why do you folks in Atlanta need a Dome for anyway? It is 45 degrees there now, that’s warm it’s 19 above here. Football should be played outside and what about that 4th down Gonzales catch last game, replays showed that it was incomplete, what’s up with that? Play Football outside and if your guy didn’t catch the ball..it’s an incomplete pass, follow the rules folks! No…We haven’t forgotten about that one!

Smoked Cheese

January 14th, 2011
6:15 pm

`
. . . . . . FALCONS win this one.

Green N Gold

January 14th, 2011
6:26 pm

“what about the packers injuries wasn’t driver injured against the eagles”

Driver is back at practice and will play Saturday night.

nauti-dawg

January 14th, 2011
6:37 pm

Hey Wisconsin Cheese Head

Southern boys agree football is for outdoors – the politicians got in the way (a multi-use facility was all they’d pay for, but Blank is going to fix that)

BTW – We kicked your a$$ in GB and we’re going to kick your a$$ again here tomorrow. It won’t even be close.

Falconsforreal

January 14th, 2011
6:39 pm

Wisconsin Packer/Skynyrd Fan

Don’t blame us for the Gonzales catch…blame the refs. They reviewed and called it a catch, that’s part of the game. Are you telling me the Packers would have told the refs….that’s ok, we didn’t catch the ball! Yea right! Get over yourself and get your crying towels out…you’re going to need them after Saturday.

Cheese Whiz

January 14th, 2011
6:48 pm

Yeah Yeah Gonzalez’s catch might have been questionable but there was no mistaking that fumble in the end end zone by GB! Hahahahaha!!

FLACONS will win again!

D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 14th, 2011
6:49 pm

BirdDirty — No I didn’t, but you mentioned it first claim it as you idea!!!

Joe Horn — Yeah, probably Franks.

Cheese Whiz

January 14th, 2011
6:50 pm

Ooops I transposed letters…must be my giddiness over Saturday’s win!

Harvey

January 14th, 2011
6:51 pm

Falconsforreal

The refs didn’t review the catch by Gonzales. And the Packer’s didn’t call for a review because of a “lengthy” delay and the booth fed. Packers will beat the Falcons like Sherman beat rebel insurgents on his glorious march to the sea.

time for timer

January 14th, 2011
6:56 pm

@cheesehead sure is partner

take it from me.

January 14th, 2011
6:59 pm

I think C.O will be and upgrade at nickel over williams,if the saints game is any messure.he had a chance to sack brees more than twice,but could not bring him down.Falcons need a better effort than the saints game,if they want to win.

justfalconbaby

January 14th, 2011
7:00 pm

Harvey please do not bring any of your Wisconsin fat chicks to the dome, the seats are not that wide. By the way why didn’t the refs call the delay of game when the packers play clock expired on the last drive on the 1st 4th down play. All things even out, yall won the war but we ended up with the hot chicks. Have a happry ride home on Sunday.

Green N Gold

January 14th, 2011
7:06 pm

Tomorrow night calls for 29 degrees and clear with little winds in Atlanta. PERFECT football weather. Too bad it’s in a crappy dome.

Otis the Drunk

January 14th, 2011
7:17 pm

I too was curious about Donald driver after that shot of him in pain in Philly so went to the G-Bay paper. GO FALCONS!

Here’s the full status report:

Atari Bigby, S Groin Questionable

Diyral Briggs, LB Ankle Probable

Bryan Bulaga, T Shoulder Probable

Chad Clifton, T Knees Probable

Donald Driver, WR Knee Probable

Korey Hall, FB Knee Questionable

Cullen Jenkins, DE Calf Probable

Clay Matthews, LB Shin Probable

Ryan Pickett, DE Ankle Probable

Jason Spitz, C/G Calf Questionable

Charles Woodson, CB Toe Probable

Frank Zombo, LB Knee Out

Green N Gold

January 14th, 2011
7:17 pm

@justfalconbaby – You say don’t bring our fat chicks? Have you ever been here? The south is known for having the biggest fatties around. WI is the ranked 24th, right in the middle, GA is the 17th fattest state. Most of the states in the top ten of fatties come from where? The South. We’ll bring our hot little blond wives down there and cheer on the Pack. Please don’t sit on them, ya bunch of fatties.

http://calorielab.com/news/2010/06/28/fattest-states-2010/

ctfalconsfan

January 14th, 2011
7:26 pm

we r going to roll over the packers!!

ctfalconsfan

January 14th, 2011
7:28 pm

G&G, come on..

I can tell when a packer fan (male) is actually living in ATL as the girl he is with is cute. If that same guy is with a huge girl then I know they came down from GB..

Cheese Whiz

January 14th, 2011
7:39 pm

Crappy dome= bad for Green Bay players’ very tired knees!

Too bad ya’ll didn’t play well enough during the regular season to be sitting out with a bye week resting and getting to play in your own cold stadium in Velveetaville!! Boohoohoo!!

David

January 14th, 2011
7:43 pm

RELAX!
The Falcons O-line is well rested and will give Turner what he needs.
Starks is a fluke
Abraham is hungry
VanGorder has the defense ready
Mularkey has Ryan dialed in
Special teams is all set
TONY G wont be denied
Falcons WIN!
The ONLY thing to worry about is running out of beer Sat night!

Falconsforreal

January 14th, 2011
7:53 pm

Harvey

You and the Packs keep taking the Falcons for granted…..will make sending you home “packing” all the more sweeter!

Go Falcons!

David

January 14th, 2011
8:03 pm

Rogers is a great Quarterback – A great Quarterback with 2 concussions and 2 losses 2 Atlanta

Dirty Birdz Rule!

January 14th, 2011
8:07 pm

Mr. Ledbetter, please check the filter.

McBubba

January 14th, 2011
8:31 pm

Go Birds!!
I want more football at the Dome next Sunday!!!

Iceheads vs Cheeseheads

January 14th, 2011
9:18 pm

Go FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Green N Gold

January 14th, 2011
10:44 pm

With all the trash talking, which I admit is fun, when it boils down to it we are pretty evenly matched teams, you guys beat us on a last minute field goal head to head this year. I have to admit was probably the most frustrating game of the year watching as a Packers fan. We outplayed you, you won, thats how thems balls roll. We aren’t division rivals and not geographical rivals, so it’s not like beating the Falcons per se will mean anything, just winning in general will feel good. It’s really nothing against you guys personally. I will be back on here sunday win or lose. If we lose I will take whatever you guys give, and if we win I will win graciously. It should be a great game come Saturday night.

TheGrater

January 14th, 2011
10:49 pm

Putting out an injury report the night before the game is just a little counter-intelligence to get the HeadCheese fans something to crow about. Yes, be confident. You can’t be nearly as confident as the Saints were last week.

I distinctly recall a similar ‘questionable’ injury reports about 24 hours before the interception by 55 and the touchdown by 84, three weeks ago.

Enjoy it tonight and all the way until it gets to be a little too painful tomorrow.

Starks might have a decent night, but, with Rodgers a little off his game, he’ll need to.
“I can’t hype anybody off one game,” Abraham said. “You’ve got to show me more.”
I’m with John on that one.

Gonzalez, Finneran and Turner are going to be hot.

Matthews, not so much.

wayne

January 14th, 2011
11:24 pm

All you pecker cheese heads, bring it on dude. You’all sound like that a$$ from the Jets running your mouths.

Covers Dixie like the Dew

January 15th, 2011
12:00 am

`
Turner the Burner will smoke some cheese saturday night.
_____________

The Grinch

January 15th, 2011
12:09 am

Green N’ Gold, thanks for having a modicum of class. If you’re around to “take it” after a loss then you’re way ahead of the d-bag aints fans that frequent our fair blog so often. Poor fellers; here’s a little something to remind you we’re thinking of you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbrjRKB586s

The Grinch

January 15th, 2011
12:14 am

I do think it’s gonna be a hell of a game between two really good teams. If the Falcons step up and realize they’re as good as their record indicates and Smitty doesn’t Schottenheimer the game like he did two weeks ago, we should handle y’all. But it’ll go down to the wire. I don’t like our nickel back being out against Rogers; Chris Owens is a major downgrade from Williams.

The Grinch

January 15th, 2011
12:15 am

And as for the loser who brought up our obesity statistics, yeah we’ve got the most fat people. But our fat people are REALLY fat and our hot chicks are REALLY hot. Y’all are all kinda fat. Take your pick.

season ticket holder

January 15th, 2011
12:27 am

Grinch, I was thinking the same thing

Ross

January 15th, 2011
1:17 am

I have my doubts about this Williams thing – Smitty has a touch of the devious in him regarding these injury reports. Williams is a veteran and likely doesn’t need to practice – could Smith possibly be scheming the Packers into attempting to exploit the nickel and then, surprise! there’s the season starter right where he’s expected? In any case Owens is a capable DB and the Falcons are going to need run D and line pressure in any case. The game will not be won or lost by one player.

To GreenandGold, thanks, good luck to you guys too, let’s settle this like the Cheeseheads and Goobers we both are :)

SawThat1nce

January 15th, 2011
1:24 am

Green and Gold@10:44…..The Packers didn’t outplay the Falcons, in the last game.
Points on the board, that is the stat that counts.
GO FALCONS!!!!!

SawThat1nce

January 15th, 2011
1:24 am

Falcons will win by 10.

nauti-dawg

January 15th, 2011
1:38 am

Did I mention that Falcon $HIT looks a lot like cheese.

On your heads Mothercheeesefockers!

Ross

January 15th, 2011
2:13 am

Laboriously compiled for your perusal, every Falcons-Packers game

L 1966 Falcons 3 at Packers 56
L 1967 Falcons 0 at Packers 23
L 1968 Packers 38 at Falcons 7
L 1969 Falcons 10 at Packers 28
L 1970 Falcons 24 at Packers 27
W 1971 Packers 21 at Falcons 28
W 1972 Falcons 10 at Packers 9
W 1974 Packers 3 at Falcons 10
L 1975 Falcons 13 at Packers 22
L 1976 Packers 24 at Falcons 20
W 1979 Packers 7 at Falcons 25
W 1981 Falcons 31 at Packers 17
L 1982 Packers 38 at Falcons 7
W 1983 Packers 41 at Falcons 47
W 1988 Packers 0 at Falcons 20
L 1989 Falcons 21 at Packers 23
W 1991 Packers 31 at Falcons 35
W 1992 Packers 10 at Falcons 24
L 1994 Falcons 17 at Packers 21
L 1995 Falcons 20 at Packers 37 (postseason)
W 2001 Falcons 23 at Packers 20
L 2002 Falcons 34 at Packers 37
W 2002 Falcons 27 at Packers 7 (postseason)
L 2005 Packers 33 at Falcons 25
W 2008 Falcons 27 at Packers 24
W 2010 Packers 17 at Falcons 20

Series tied 13-13 with each team having 1 postseason victory.

Ross

January 15th, 2011
2:27 am

Falcons are 8-4 at home against the Packers, Packers are 9-5 at home against the Falcons.

Each team has one blowout and one shutout of the other team.

Could not be more even!

Ross

January 15th, 2011
2:38 am

Average score: Packers 23.6, Falcons 20.3

Green N Gold

January 15th, 2011
2:54 am

Ross:

It couldn’t be more even! We are both teams that are in the playoffs, not rivals of nfc division or geography. It’s not like a panthers fan was talking smack, ok bad example. I am at the point now where as much smack as we talk, I just want a good game. Our teams aren’t different. You guys have a better coach, I will admit that. We have a better QB. You have a better O-Line and RB. I get it. We have better receivers even with our future pro bowl tight end out for the year. Rodgers lit you up for 344 and Jennings was running around like a madman.

But when it comes down to defense, ours is better. D-line, you guys have Abraham, great, we have Raji and Jenkins. Talk linebackers and give me CMIII over anyone in the league. The guy has a motor that doesn’t quit. Don’t even get me started on the secondary, we are sending two to the pro bowl (Nick Collins and Charles Woodson) and the other guy (Tramon Williams) got snubbed and is actually our best player.

All in all, stop turner (aka fumblecakes) and make Matty “Ice” beat us. It’s funny this kid has a nickname while never winning a thing in the post season. Is that what he puts on his b*lls after a game, ice? We in WI hold our QB’s to a different standard.

OK enough smack talk. Just wanted to say it will be a good game and best of luck.

Green N Gold

January 15th, 2011
3:02 am

Ross:

You are a numbers guy. Talk to the Saints about defensive yards allowed and offensive yards per attempt right now. They don’t care, they lost in the PLAYOFFS. Everyone is now 0-0. Well some of us are 1-0, or 0-0. If stats ran the world we’d just skip the playoffs and hand the championship to the Pats this year. Which we can all agree, eff them.

Ross

January 15th, 2011
4:12 am

Hey GnG, if you live in Atlanta, or ever get down this way, come by the Yacht Club and we’ll stake you to a few glasses of midwestern champagne (Budweiser).

Green N Gold

January 15th, 2011
4:14 am

I get it you guys are all about the SEC, but there is actually a PROFESSIONAL football game in Atlanta. Just reminding you in case NO ONE CARES in Atlanta. Or there is snow? Go to the game anyways! You guys are so pathetic. There is a reason it’s called “fair-weather”, you can’t show up if there’s a wittle snow on the grownd. There is a reason your trophy case is empty. Check the Packers’ case, there’s 12 of them in there.

Green N Gold

January 15th, 2011
4:23 am

“Hey GnG, if you live in Atlanta, or ever get down this way, come by the Yacht Club and we’ll stake you to a few glasses of midwestern champagne (Budweiser).”

I don’t drink Budweiser, I am a Miller guy, but hell if you come up this way I will buy you whatever you want. It’s on me, I even pay for your weird (is she his mother/sister/girlfriend/niece/daughter/wife/father) friend that comes with you. I don’t judge. One thing we can do in WI is drink, and play football. Good Luck?

Ross

January 15th, 2011
4:31 am

I would like to point out that the 8th Wisconsin Volunteers in the Civil War, went into battle with a bald eagle mascot named Old Abe.

They did most of their fighting in Mississippi and Louisiana, but the Saints are out of it, and Favre is finally retired.

Now the Falcons go into battle with their own balding Old Abe. Get’em Abe!

Green N Gold

January 15th, 2011
4:49 am

Ross:

The best thing out of all of this is that the Falcons fans won’t care after Saturdays’ game. They will give up, not own anything up to all the crap they talked, and pretend the falcons didn’t exist. Just like they always do. When the falcons are hot, they like the falcons, when the falcons don’t make the playoffs it’s all about excuses and they quit and get interested in the Hawk’s season.

You aren’t fairweather fans? Even your own writers and players call you fairweather. My father taught me about the Packers, just like his father did…and I will teach my kids about the Packers. We are a team built on tradition, handing things down from one generation to the next. I will teach my grandkids about the Packers. What will you teach about the Falcons? We sleep with prostitutes and kill dogs? Puh-Leeze, bunch of thugs thinking they own the world because they won a few regular season games? Who’s your greatest coach, Jerry Glanville? You haven’t seen a Lombardi trophy so let me remind you who’s name is on it, ahem, LOMBARDI.

Ross

January 15th, 2011
5:00 am

GnG, my Dad and became Falcons fans together, because they did not exist until 1966. He’s gone now, I hope he’s watching tomorrow. We don’t have a Lombardi or a Kramer or a Nitschke yet (although Matt Ryan is very much like Bart Starr). We don’t have any championships. But rest assured we are good fans – we’re not all made of hot empty air expelled into blogs. Win or lose we’ll be back next year. We’ve loved this team through not much thick and a lot of thin. Tomorrow is going to be some of the thick!

RMikel58

January 15th, 2011
6:28 am

The newly found running game Greenbay found last week is a plus for Atlanta. Philadelphia didnt know about Starks nor did Greenbay until the game started and now that Atlanta Falcons knows of their running game, theyve had time to make preperations for him.
This is to our advantage i feel, 1. Greenbay’s QB Rodgers will not scramble as much and Greenbay will call more running plays maybe 20-25 plays and this will take away their passing game so look to not see Rodgers stats in the 300 yard range.
They’ll stick to the running game with a balance or change back to passing if they get far behind Atlanta.
Hopefully the Falcons are ready for their RB which i think is possible so alot of those plays will not gain big yardage and waste alot of plays.
Greenbay is a talented team but our Defense isnt bad either. Look to see Atlanta put pressure on QB Aaron Rodgers and he’ll try to dump the passes over the middle or to the RB on the ends with limited success. They Greenbay figures on utilizing their RB alot so i look to see them dump passes to him as well hoping that he’ll break loose for big gains.
Also since Williams isnt playing the Falcons said that they’d probably use the zone more.

RMikel58

January 15th, 2011
6:32 am

@Greenngold…………… Wisconsin fans are great fans to behold but if there arent any other sports teams whats left to cheer? Packers are all you’ve got up there. Even when Greenbay wasnt that good whatelse did you have to do to pass the time away?
S

Vidalia Falcon

January 15th, 2011
6:41 am

The Eagles defense was beat up entering that game. That’s why the Packers finally “found” a running game. Our defense is rested and healthy.

RMikel58

January 15th, 2011
7:13 am

Yeah you heard it on ESPN, you heard all the commentators talk about how really good Greenbay is and they should get to the Superbowl rather than Atlanta because Atlanta has flopped in playoff games before.
They have said Brady, Manning, Flacco, Rivers are great QB’s but Matt Ryan hasnt been mentioned much. Atlanta hasnt been mentioned Offensively or Defensively its always about the other team we’re playing.
Yeah they mention the 13-3 and home records but never about Arthur Blank and the Coaches. They dont make the frront page.
The Falcons of the past arent here playing tonight, dont see any of the Smith family, nor any of the coaches on the sidelines. I see a very organized, winners attitude, 1 coach of the year, 1 offensive coordinator of the year, very good Defensive coordinator on the sidelines.
Theres a new atmosphere in Atlanta, no not a 1 time deal its the beginning of a winning tradition thats starting here in Atlanta. Braves had it for 14 seasons and set a record in sports for the most consecutive Division wins by a sports team.
Greenbay thinks their gonna come in here and blow Atlanta away with their newfound running game so i guess Atlanta will just go ahead and lay down and let your RB get his 100 yds. rushing.
All i hear is how Atlanta’s Defense is gotten slightly better and Greenbay’s has gotten awesome since playing here in week 12. Atlanta’s Defense has gotten no respect and even moreso than their Offense. All they say is that Greenbay has 4 Pro Bowlers on their Defense and they now have a great running game which will beat Atlanta Saturday.
Im not sure how the outcome will turn out but unlike Philadelphia were pretty much healthy which they werent.
I guarantee you that Atlanta’s Defense will show up tonight and also the fans as well.

william wallace

January 15th, 2011
7:47 am

everyone “sports caster and odds maker in the worldare againist the Falcons.SI has done a spread story on all the play-off teams—–except you know who?????after the Falcons dismember the “Pack” maybe they will start to look at the FALCONS as the team to beat!!!!!!!

RMikel58

January 15th, 2011
7:55 am

No disrespect to Greenbay but all those players you have on your team arent the team that won the Super Bowl. I resent the fact that eventhough Atlanta has had a tremendous season their not picked to go to the Super Bowl.
When they had won 8 in a row the computers picked Atlanta as the No.#1 team then the following week picked New England the No.#1 team then after we lost to the Saints we dropped to 3rd.
Now we’re not even favored to win the NFC.
Yeah you can throw the records out the window because what matters is who’s the hottest team now.
Philadelphia’s Defense had lots of injuries this year:
Jeff Owens-DT
Jorrick Calvin-CB
Nate Allen-S
Brandon Graham-DE
Ellis Hobbs-CB
Ricky Sapp-LB
Antoine Harris-S
Marlin Jackson-CB
Philadelphia was down 14-3 at the half but missed a 41 yd. FG but came back after the half to make a game of it.
Philadelphia came into the game losers of the last 2 games against Dallas and Minnesota. 4-4 at home this year against a Greenbay team 2-2 in their last 4 games losing to Detroit.
5-3 in their last 8 games while Atlanta is 7-1 in their last 8 with a decisive home field advantage of 20-2 and yet here they are talking about how Greenbay has found itself.
I think that the players on the Falcons team has heard enough bout how great the Packers are the last 2 weeks.
I dont think like most this game will be close.
Greenbays running game will not factor in tonight, they’ll stop the run and Rodgers wont have a great passing game.
I think Greenbay will have 3 turnovers which Atlanta will convert into 13 pts.
Matt Ryan will have a great day passing and Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez will have a big day. Michael Turner will get his 100 yards and Atlanta will win 31-13.
You guys will go back home to Greenbay wondering why you lost and we’ll see where all those fair weathered fans are at after losing.

RMikel58

January 15th, 2011
8:08 am

Greenbay played 5 teams above .500 and went 3-2. Atlanta played 8 teams above .500 and went 6-2. Atlanta 9-1 in their last 10, Greenbay is 7-3.

D man

January 15th, 2011
8:52 am

I just watched the November game again. The Falcons should have blown out the Packers. We played terrible with all of the 15 yard penalties and missed tackles. I look for the Falcons to win big tonight.
GO FALCONS!!! RISE UP AGAIN!!!

RMikel58

January 15th, 2011
8:55 am

I’m telling you were not gonna get respect until we beat Greenbay, Chicago and New England Patriots. Atlanta’s Defense can be as good as the Pittsburgh Steelers but do they know this?
3 game winning streak sounds good to me. We cannot wait on Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez or Michael Turner to break out with big games, the other guy’s on the team will have to step up and get involved and this is what makes a great team.
Comes down to this and i think in alot of ways its better we are playing Greenbay rather than Seattle. It will prepare us for the NFC Championship rather than getting a soft team. Although none ofthe teams in the playoffs can be overlooked, Greenbay is a formidable foe and we’ll learn from this game and it’ll give us more confidence going to the NFC Championship.
Play your game Atlanta, this is our house, take advantage of what you got here with homefield advantage and remember how hard it is to get back and for some player’s you may not ever get to play again in the playoff’s so make it count.

D man

January 15th, 2011
8:56 am

William Wallace – not true dude, the odds makers in Vegas picked the Falcons to win by 1 point. The spread is up to 3.5 last time I checked because everyone in Vegas is putting their money on the Falcons to win… :)

D man

January 15th, 2011
8:58 am

RMikeI58 – I feel your pain too, tonight we win…

Bobby Petrino

January 15th, 2011
9:03 am

Atlanta is the world’s largest outhouse

[...] AJC gives us the latest injury report for tonight’s game at the Dome between the Falcons and [...]

SawThat1nce

January 15th, 2011
10:05 am

The Falcons will win by 10.

Vince Lombardi

January 15th, 2011
10:42 am

Packers win by 11. Atlanta is a shtbox, been there.

BOOGIES THE MAN FROM HARTWELL GA

January 15th, 2011
11:04 am

FALCONS MAKE AMERICA TAKE NOTICE TONIGHT……

MAKE US PROUD, GO FALCONS……………..

Wisconsin Packer/Skynyrd Fan

January 15th, 2011
11:19 am

Happy Birthday Ronnie Van Zant January 15th
Go Packers!!!

Earl Austin Jr.

January 15th, 2011
11:26 am

Now Vince,,, be nice…
Falcons Roll tonight.

FalconsFan284

January 15th, 2011
11:58 am

Vince Lombardi—–I’ve been to Wisconsin and it’s a great place; to take a nap!!!!!

Cheese Whiz

January 15th, 2011
12:01 pm

I’m amused by the numbskulls who are forgetting which team is the #1 seed and playing at home after a whole week of rest and which team is the LOWEST REMAINING SEED!! LOL!!

Dirty Birdz Rule!

January 15th, 2011
12:07 pm

Hey Packer Fans! I’ve got news for you! Tonight a new dynasty in the NFL gets national recognition! This is a statement game for this team. Neither Matty Ice or future hall of famer Tony Gonzalez have won a postseason game. I grew up a Cleveland Browns fan (still my favorite AFC team), but moved here in ‘82, so I know a little something about tradition. I am proud to be in Atlanta to see the emergence of a great NFL power for years to come. Have a good time watching the Georgia Dome rock! Your quarterback will have better luck trying to call plays on the runway at Hartsfield Airport. Go Falcons! Rise up! This is our time!

Bobby Petrino

January 15th, 2011
12:28 pm

82% of Georgia natives are introduced to their future spouses at family reunions.

Eric C.

January 15th, 2011
12:40 pm

So why are White, Abraham, etc. all listed as questionable, but then are all expected to play? Shouldn’t they be listed as probable?

It’s tough to lose that veteran presence in Williams…the defensive line will need to bring their A game for sure.

Ross

January 15th, 2011
1:09 pm

Eric C, it’s just conventional – 100, 75, 50, 25, 0 percent chance to play = will play, probable, questionable, doubtful, out.

AG

January 15th, 2011
1:37 pm

Lets eat some cheesecake tonight.

NuclearJim

January 15th, 2011
2:54 pm

Prediction! Packers go down like a drunken Georgia sorority girl on her homecoming date. Bird’s win 28 – 10

stendek

January 15th, 2011
9:55 pm

Enter your comments hereMatt Ryan is playing worse than Jeff George AND Chris Miller. What the Hell was he thinking? A tackle on the damn interception would have been nice! Kept game within striking distance. Packers have now iced this one away. Excellent season officially in toilet! Thanks for nothing offense. Chokers! Watching best team in NFC. Guys with Georgia Gs on helmets. I WISH! Sorry Falcons. Matt Ryan proved is he pretender not contender! Critics were correct all along. Too damn bad! :( :( :( :( STENDEK