GAME STORY: Jaguars 15, Falcons 13
Quarterback Matt Ryan was under pressure against Jacksonville on Friday. (Associated Press)
JACKSONVILLE – If there was any remaining doubt about wide receiver Harry Douglas’ knee, he put it to rest with his second scintillating performance of the exhibition season.
Douglas sparked an otherwise shoddy offensive performance with a 76-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown in the 15-13 loss to the Jaguars at EverBank Field on Friday night.
The Falcons dropped to 0-2, while Jacksonville, which was humiliated by New England 47-12 in its last outing, moved to 1-1 in the exhibition season.
“It just seemed like we were out of sync offensively,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said. ”We have some things that we definitely have to correct and that’s what the preseason is for.”
Other than Douglas’ big play, the Falcons did not mount another touchdown drive. Also, they failed to take full advantage of great field position after two first-quarter turnovers.
“When we get the ball on the plus-side of the 50, we have to make some hay and get some points,” Smith said.
The starters played the entire first half and could amass just three first downs. Running back Michael Turner had seven carries for 14 yards. Julio Jones had two catches. Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez had one catch each.
On Jacksonville’s opening possession, cornerback Brent Grimes intercepted Jacksonville quarterback David Garrard and returned the pick 62 yards.
The offense had the ball at the Jaguars’ 42. They picked up one first down, but the drive stalled at Jacksonville’s 21. Kicker Matt Bryant put the Falcons ahead 3-0 with a 40-yard field goal.
On Jacksonville’s ensuing possession, wide receiver Cecil Shorts fumbled on a reverse. After a mad scramble, linebacker Sean Weatherspoon recovered the ball at the Jaguars’ 37-yard line.
The promising drive stalled after Ryan was called for intentional grounding on third-and-2 from Jacksonville’s 31.
“Our defense did a great job,” quarterback Matt Ryan said. “As an offense, we always like to capitalize on those turnovers.”
Punter Matt Bosher came on and booted a 50-yard punt when the Falcons wanted him to pin the Jaguars inside the 20.
Jacksonville put together a 13-play drive that was capped by Josh Scobee’s 26-yard field goal to tie the score, 3-3.
There was an exchange of punts before Douglas got loose. On a third-and-5, Douglas was open over the middle, he shook a defender and then broke outside. Jones gave him a block and Douglas was sprinting up the sideline for the score.
“I’m here to do whatever they ask me to do — inside, outside, slot — whatever,” Douglas said. “I love the offense.”
Douglas also had a nice touchdown grab last week against Miami.
The Falcons added a field goal in the third quarter to move ahead 13-3. But like in the exhibition opener when they blew a 17-0 lead, the reserves couldn’t hold off the Jaguars.
The Jaguars added two quick field goals, one after Antone Smith fumbled on a kickoff return and then received a fourth quarter touchdown pass from Luke McCown to wide receiver Armon Binns to move ahead. They held on for the victory.
Cornerback Dominique Franks, who is having a spectacular training camp, started for Dunta Robinson. He played strong, but missed a couple of tackles during Jacksonville’s touchdown drive.
“I left some plays out there that I should of have made, but that’s something that I can correct,” Franks said. “I need to get a better feel for what receivers like to do in certain coverages.”
It was Franks most extensive action as the Falcons are trying to decide who’s their No. 3 cornerback. Franks was getting his chance to move past Christopher Owens.
“I didn’t want to look at that too closely and get myself over-excited,” Franks said. “I just wanted to go out there and make plays. I should have made those two missed tackles. They were big on that drive to take the lead. That’s something that is easily corrected.”
Franks doesn’t need to beat himself up for the missed tackles. He wasn’t the only defender missing tackles. Some contend that the lack of live tackling in practice leads to those type of plays in the preseason.
“We have to just get back in there and get more reps to get really focused on tackling,” middle linebacker Curtis Lofton said. “We don’t do enough tackling. When we get out there, it’s preseason and you know guys are not ready for that.”
The Falcons will now point to their third exhibition game at Pittsburgh next Saturday.
The game will be heavily anticipated as defensive end Ray Edwards, the team’s prized free agent signee who is recovering from knee surgery, may make his Atlanta debut.
–D. Orlando Ledbetter, The Atlanta Falcons beat blog
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167 comments Add your comment
gdotcarter
August 19th, 2011
11:24 pm
1st.
TCCB
August 19th, 2011
11:39 pm
oh well.
TJ
August 19th, 2011
11:40 pm
Nope did not look that great on 1st tem offense but it is the preseason…
carl
August 19th, 2011
11:47 pm
did i come in first?
carl
August 19th, 2011
11:48 pm
i like matt ryan in this game, he looked good. and ready for the season.
Falkin Phraud
August 19th, 2011
11:51 pm
Buzzards were a fake 13-3 in 2010, exposed in their one & only playoff game. In 2011, it won’t take that long. Real NFL experts (none of which are in Atlanta) were not and are not impressed.
J.J.M.
August 19th, 2011
11:55 pm
so its the preseason when will they “practice” throwing the deep ball…im seeing the same stuff as last season, “play action dump the ball under neath”
mark
August 19th, 2011
11:58 pm
it was a shaky game for the first team offense but let me tell you the defense play very well fast,making plays i gosh we had 2 more turnovers thats a good nose for the football
JR1967
August 20th, 2011
12:04 am
Soon to be the new “Los Angeles Jaguars”…………………
jarvis
August 20th, 2011
12:04 am
9th?!!!!!
tyler
August 20th, 2011
12:07 am
Yeah- not a very impressive showing on the Falcons part. Offense looked pretty bad minus the 76 yarder. The O-line was awful and the D can pressure but never seems to be able to seal the deal. Scoring only 13 points on these guys is embarrassing. 3rd down playcalling was bad as well. Falcons second preseason game= BIG FAIL
rob
August 20th, 2011
12:09 am
if you think the plodding, “get a lead and see if we can run out the clock” offense will change with the addition of jones and another year of experience for ryan, I have just one word for you– Mulark(e)y!
rally
August 20th, 2011
12:12 am
I thought I was watching a Georgia Football Game at first….granted its preseason. It kind of amazes me that some of the plays look like Bobo was down there in spirit calling plays for the Falcons. 3rd and 2nd and your trying to throw the ball deep. Swear I have seen that somewhere before….just saying
Tyrone Shulaces
August 20th, 2011
12:21 am
If yall don’t get Burnt Toast #21 off the field, you’re gonna be 4-12
JJ
August 20th, 2011
12:23 am
I am still waiting for Matty Ice to live up to the hype!He just don’t seem to have the juice to make this O purr.I want him to be the MAN,but something is just missing from his game.He just don’t have that “it”.He has the pieces,but can he put it all together?I know,he just don’t put it in the end-zone enough for me.He leaves too many points on the field and we kick too many field goals.C’mon Matty,please be what they say you are,one of the top 100.LOL.
Z-Ro
August 20th, 2011
12:25 am
Pre-season is for preparation ONLY….we’re not calling plays you would see in those situations on purpose nobody in here is a successful O.C so press your top and bottom lips together HARD!!!!
HeardThisB4
August 20th, 2011
12:27 am
The Good = Harry Douglass & Quizz
The Bad = O-Line
The Ugly = Tackling
How can you practice throwing deep when the pass rush is in the QB’s face all night?
Z-Ro
August 20th, 2011
12:37 am
Faulkin Phraud you’z a funny dude we were exposed because Green Bay had to fight to get in so they stayed in attack mode the entire playoffs we coasted in and had a bye….bad combo!! Falcons will do good to finish 12-4 with the competition in our division see you last game of the NFL seeaon my PHRAUD friend
M&M
August 20th, 2011
12:46 am
The falcons gambled on 2 year players coming around and they are not coming around ! Let the eagles nab everybody, while they sat idlely by gambling on rookies and second year players ! So damn fustrating !
M&M
August 20th, 2011
12:48 am
Z-Ro
you think they will win12 games ?!
Who Me?
August 20th, 2011
12:57 am
Matt’s problem is two-fold. He checks off to quick and he does NOT like to get hit. I would’ve thought by now he’d have figured out the same thing the announcers were yakkin’ about Gabberd – move up in the pocket, not roll and check off. His rookie year he was fearless and made clutch play after clutch play staying in the pocket and releasing the ball at the last possible moment. I guess the QB coaches told him that was going to be a career limiting way to play because he’s been a puss for the last 18 months.
i know I know, the o-line isn’t exactly causing people to want their autographs but they should start to gel shortly right? And it did look eerily similar to Mike Bobo’s offense at UGA though now that I think about it.
bravesfansince1961
August 20th, 2011
1:32 am
Will somebody please teach the Falcons how to tackle?? The reserve defense was horrible about wrapping up the offensive player. Please tell them a big hit is worthless if they don’t hold onto the guy with the ball. (Deep Breath) Okay this was the 2nd preseason game. I can hope the lack of physical contact conditioning and keeping the really good plays in the weeds are the problem. The reserves and special teams are my big concerns right now. The 3rd game against Pittsburgh should be telling.
Okay Falcons. . . I’ve been a fan since 66. I’m not giving up now. But please show a big spark next week!
SXSeternity
August 20th, 2011
3:19 am
There’s nothing to worry about concerning the Falcons play during the preseason. After all this is pretty much practice and evaluation for the regular season. The expectations are going to be high for the team to advance through the playoff. Of course they were blown out by the Packers at home in the playoffs but people forget the Falcons did beat the Packers at home in the regular season. Haven’t looked at the schedule but hopefully they’ll succeed.
OHIOdirtybird!!!!
August 20th, 2011
4:31 am
I agree with most, it’s PRE-season so the L is nothing. That being said our tackling was HORRIBLE tonight and it certainly needs improvement our OL wasn’t exactly up to par as well but we didn’t really have our “starting” line up in there so i give them a little bit of slack. Can’t wait to see our DL in there healthy along with Ray Ray on the edge w/ ABE…..I do think Quizz needs a few snaps w/ the 1st string guys though cuz he showed tonight that if he has a little bit of blocking he can show some flash….just my opinion, but I’m not to worried….GO DIRTYBIRDZ!!!
OHIOdirtybird!!!!
August 20th, 2011
4:57 am
I wasn’t too happy with the dink and dunk passing as well, but I also wasn’t out on the field so I can’t totally disagree with it. As far as it goes in general though, people tend to forget that it is a glorified practice and there is no REAL game planning that goes into these games….Come December you will see that this game was just a practice!!
HATinGA
August 20th, 2011
5:42 am
Come on people stop getting so worked up over preseason!! Every year there are teams that go 4-0 in the pre-season there fans are planning playoff trips then the real season hits them in the gut! 4-12. then there are the teams whos 1s play well but 3s an 4s give it up in the 3rd and 4th quarter. and go 1-3, but the season starts and there 1s click! 12-4! Dont be Rookey Fans!!!
cb795
August 20th, 2011
6:01 am
Jacksonville Jaguars second and third string QB’s looked better than Redman. Never mind, Redman didn’t have the opportunity to direct his offense against the Falcons defense.
DC Falconn
August 20th, 2011
6:05 am
@HatinGA I agree with you on the Win/Loss record during Preseason..However, it is not the loss in Pres Season that concerns me…it was the listless play of the O-line..the inability to use offensive weapons White, Jones, Douglas, and Gonzalez effectively. One deep attemp to Jones which was underthrown does not establish a deep threat and back their defense off the line. It is a new NFL you have to establish your ability to throw middle to deep throws to help establish runs otherwise they stack the D-line and stuff the run..which is exactly what teams are doing.
Thomas D.
August 20th, 2011
6:16 am
Where are the passes over 30 yards?
Roddy W.
August 20th, 2011
6:17 am
“Matt’s going to have to throw it down field this year”.
June 2011
EZ
August 20th, 2011
7:02 am
Need more Quizz!!!!!!
Skeptic
August 20th, 2011
7:26 am
Thomas D….Matt Ryan can’t throw the ball 30 yds
Jimmy Crack
August 20th, 2011
7:34 am
The leaky center line play that was letting rushers in Matt’s face. It shows how valuable Todd McClure is to our offense.
duece coupe
August 20th, 2011
7:38 am
Drove all the way to Jacksonville for a “shoddy offensive performance”.
duece coupe
August 20th, 2011
7:41 am
The Falcon defense did a great job
against a team clobbered 47-12 last week.
Jason
August 20th, 2011
7:43 am
It’s preseason
duece coupe
August 20th, 2011
7:45 am
The Falcons might turn Matt Ryan ” Loose ” someday.
duece coupe
August 20th, 2011
7:53 am
Good News ?
The 2007 Patriots went 16-0 in the regular season,
after starting 0-2 in the pre-season.
SimpleDawg
August 20th, 2011
7:53 am
Uh oh, don’t look now, but that triumphant run to the playoffs just began to show signs of weakness.
Pitiful performance by the offense. Michael Turner looks fat and slow. Offensive line looks inept.
Not much better by the defense.
And against a pretty weak opponent.
Matt
August 20th, 2011
7:55 am
My 7:54 post is in the filter!!!
HJones
August 20th, 2011
8:08 am
How can Blank and Dimitroff accept an offensive performance like the one we saw last night.
Field goals, time of possession, running yards, explosive talk, and explosive players do not win games.
Running Michael Tuner on first down for one or no yards is not an explosive offense. Haven’t we seen this picture before?
The problem is the offensive coach. When will some one read the riot act to Mike Mularkey and his play calling.
I thought the Falcons had sent Roddy White and Julio Jones home before the game.
This game was a drastic terrible performance for the offense.
It is the same team with the same philosophy as last year and the Falcons will do no better unless this offense changes.
TOUCHDOWN POINTS WIN GAMES.
DePlane
August 20th, 2011
8:19 am
“Matt Ryan and the Falcons Lose Road Game”
I wouldn’t say that. Matt Ryan was done after the first half….
Captain Obvious
August 20th, 2011
8:25 am
Preseason is for analysis, right? Well, let’s analyze.
1) Redman looked more like a starting QB than the starter.
2) Offensive line couldn’t (wouldn’t?) pass protect
3) Defense wouldn’t (couldn’t?) wrap up and tackle
4) AGAIN, the defense couldn’t consistently make stops on third down and LONG
5) Van Gorder is lost and confused as an NFL defensive coordinator
6) Mularkey does not trust his QB…still
and…
7) We’re all sick of hearing who is having a “strong camp.” If they can’t show it against an opponent, then it isn’t very strong, is it?
A Pre-Season Snoozefest: A Falcons-Jaguars Recap – The Falcoholic | Don Vuitton
August 20th, 2011
8:26 am
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A Pre-Season Snoozefest: A Falcons-Jaguars Recap – The Falcoholic | Acessando Net
August 20th, 2011
8:28 am
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A Pre-Season Snoozefest: A Falcons-Jaguars Recap – The Falcoholic | Jiveblogger.com
August 20th, 2011
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Th
August 20th, 2011
8:39 am
Our receivers are going to be pretty frustrated this year if Ryan never gets his touch back on passes to guys running away from him. Every good pass last night was to someone facing toward him. Only one attempt to someone facing up field and it was way off target. Doesn’t do any good to call the plays if he can’t make the throw.
Jason
August 20th, 2011
8:39 am
Since Mr. Blank has taken over he has brought a winning mentality to our city. Thanks Arthur for shaking the thugs out of our organization and in that turning the falcons into a winning breed. Matty is the 8th highest paid athlete in the world. We have a seriously outstanding roster this year, the best ever. Julio will conform and prevail and coming from Saban he’s already a disciplined player. The dynamics of this assembly is genius.
A Pre-Season Snoozefest: A Falcons-Jaguars Recap – The Falcoholic | Bistro Press
August 20th, 2011
8:40 am
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darryl
August 20th, 2011
8:41 am
Same old Atlanta. Take the lead early only to relinquish it and make for a heart attack end. No passion on the bench unlike Jacksonville and Miami. Oh and stop them 1st and 2nd down only to give up big play on 3rd. Just like last year. Wow foreboding for the season.
A Pre-Season Snoozefest: A Falcons-Jaguars Recap – The Falcoholic | Tucson AZ News and Weather
August 20th, 2011
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D man
August 20th, 2011
8:51 am
Falcons starters looked good last night. We are 2-0 with the starting unit.
FAILCANTS
August 20th, 2011
9:00 am
Start the excuse machine, dirty birds….that’s what you are good at….can’t win a key game, can’t win a ring…that is why you will ALWAYS BE THE FALCANTS! Who Dat? You ain’t dat and never will be….stay classy….
FAILCANTS
August 20th, 2011
9:02 am
2-0 with the starting unit? What a moronic comment…..must be a UGA grad…..
Jason
August 20th, 2011
9:06 am
I see Katrina missed one!
Don't feed Aints trolls (It isn't 2009 anymore)
August 20th, 2011
9:09 am
Some of you do not understand what preseason football is about. Whatever. In the starters vs starters portion of the game, The Falcons won 10-3. It wasn’t pretty, but it was a win.
The good news is that IF the Falcons could have made the initial tackle they Jags would have had about half the yards they did. There was constant pressure on the QB, constant penetration in the back field, and great kick coverage…IF they could tackle. It is better the coaches saw this in preseason. You can bet the D has a long week of tackle drills ahead.
Ryan wasn’t as sharp as in the first game, but the offense being called was also very vanilla compared to the first game. Remember that we play the Jags for real, so my guess is that has something to do with it.
What I saw last night was a team that played like it was the preseason. They did a lot of little things wrong. There were a few dropped passes which would have made Ryan look a little better too, but it was clear that the coaches told Ryan not to get hit. That is probably because the back up center was in there and they would rather he just throw the ball away than risk being injured. He still drove the ball down the field for two scoring drives.
Our 3rd down offense and defense were both horrible.
Jason
August 20th, 2011
9:10 am
Key game—–Seattle destroys New orleans. Shuts dat down in search of who? Oh looking for a ride home due to a lack of home field advantage.
Colorado Bird
August 20th, 2011
9:29 am
Disappointed !! They just did not look like a contender in the NFC South, especially after looking at the other teams in the division. I don’t understand why we year after year don’t have a solid and productive pass rush, especially considering the number of defensive players that were on the market this year which Atlanta had a chance to get?
It seems that Atlanta wants to build the team only through the draft and I sure it will work over the long run (5-6 years from now) But Atlanta needs to be a contender on the football scene and the lack of respect that the NFL Network, ESPN, and other announcers (most who are previous NFL players) have for this team, as a fan really hurts. But after watching Atlanta in the pre-season leads me to believe they may be right-and that hurts to admit, because I love the Falcons.
I really like the Atlanta coaches but somebody is missing the boat! Just look at what New Orleans,Philadelphia, New York and other teams that play Atlanta in the regular season did to up-grade their team ! What did Atlanta do? One defensive player!!!!
Frustrated with the team and pray they prove me wrong. But with what they did in free-agency leads me to believe the road ahead is going to be rocky at best.
Go Falcons !!
Flo=Ri-Duh
August 20th, 2011
9:36 am
Pitiful display by the o-line and Matt Ryan.
HJones
August 20th, 2011
9:39 am
MY OPINION: WORST PERFORMANCE BY A FALCONS OFFENSIVE TEAM EVER
“It just seemed like we were out of sync offensively,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said. ”We have some things that we definitely have to correct and that’s what the preseason is for.”
Duh! The offensive problems last night are the same problems we saw last year, and in particular in the Green Bay game. Shouldn’t the problems be corrected by now? If the problems haven’t been corrected since the Green Bay game, how will preseason correct them? As I recall, it was said many times that the Falcons wanted to have a more EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE but needed that player who could stretch the field. It looks to me that we have three of those players now with Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Harry Douglas.
Running Michael Turner on first down over and over for negative or zero yards is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? Three first downs in a half by this elite first team of players is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? One pass reception in the first half by the best wide receiver in the league is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? No catches by your number one draft choice in the first half is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? Getting the ball on your opponents side of the field twice and you score three points is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? Completing your first pass of the game to Michael Turner who is not a good receiver and should have been blocking to allow Matt Ryan to throw to one of our explosive receivers is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE?
Considering the money spent and statements made since the Green Bay game, how can the Owner and General Manager accept such a drastic terrible offensive performance as we saw last night. Let’s be real here. It was one of the worst performances by a Falcons offensive team EVER considering the personnel that we have on the first team.
EXPLOSIVE PLAYERS cannot solely make an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE! EXPLOSIVE TALK for several months does not make an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE.
The offensive philosophy and play calling must change if the Falcons offense is to resemble an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE. The Falcons have the EXPLOSIVE PLAYERS so there should be NO EXCUSES. The offensive game plan and play calling last night looked worse than the worst
offensive games of last year. It appeared to me the offensive game plan in the first half was based on the performance of one man – Michael Turner and his running. This is a team game!! Did Julio Jones and Roddy White play at all in the first quarter? As a fan, last night’s offensive performance is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!
I hope it is unacceptable for the Owner and General Manager. Hooray for the Falcons Defensive Team!!!
A Pre-Season Snoozefest: A Falcons-Jaguars Recap – The Falcoholic
August 20th, 2011
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SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
9:56 am
Hey DLed: Like I said yesterday, before you erased my post, it would be interesting to watch how your team handled the jag pass rush,…. we all got that answer. Your offensive line is just like a New Orleans levee, it won’t hold back nothing.
I also said that this would be a good game to measure your team’s run defense, since the jag’s running backs were all banged up. Again, I was on target.
Yeah, it’s only preseason, but preseason is used to measure and guage individual talent and team cohesiveness.
Your individual star last night, Douglas, but at least they got their money’s worth from your punter! LOL!
Okay blog censor, you can erase this post too. LOL!
SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
9:59 am
I also said that your team should win, but then again, they should have won last week too. Bullseye!
RB
August 20th, 2011
9:59 am
In the past I have been critical of Ryans ability to throw deep accurately. I’m going to withhold any criticism until the regular season. Hopefully he improves this year. If not……
Phil Lunney
August 20th, 2011
10:02 am
If the Falcons don’t learn to tackle, the season will become an unwinnable track meet. On offense, I hope they are just holding back their real playbook, because if their offensive philosphy was reflected in last nights game, they are toast. Boring play calls, predictable play calling and no real life in the entire offense, except Harry Douglas.
On a separate note, the Fox star studded broadcast team was worse than the game. Get rid of all the self-serving talking by the sportscasters, give me 2 people who will describe what’s going on the field. In pre-season especially, I want names of players. The player interviews during game action was horrible.
I hope this is all a dream, a nightmare and real football starts after Labor Day.
Ken Strickland
August 20th, 2011
10:11 am
I don’t know who’s worse, some of our NEGATIVE MINDED DOOM AND GLOOM PREDICTING FALCON FANS or THOSE DELUSIONAL LOST IN SPACE AINT FANS. One has to really be a football illiterate to put stock in preseason gms, and the 1st 2 at that, especially for a division winning team that won 13gms last yr.
Both our OFF and DEF are in KEEP IS SIMPLE MODE during preseason gms. A lot more is being added to our OFF and DEF than we’ve seen in exhibition, which explains why our practices have been closed to the public. Our coaching staff is using exhibition gms to primarily evaluate talent and improve upon the basics, period.
That’s why our punt returners were told not to return punts at one point, because they wanted to see how well or starting OFF did working out of a hole. Some of you are like the Temptations song, JUST MY IMAGINATION RUNNING AWAY WITH ME. At the end of the song he says, BUT SHE DOESN’T EVEN KNOW ME. And that pretty much sums up the approach of so many of our fans.
You love NFL football and love watching it, but you don’t know a damned thing about it. Therefore, you have this tendency to treat exhibition gms with the same urgency and seriousness as regular season gms, which demonstrates a serious lack of comprehension and understanding. But, I guess it takes all kinds to make a fan base.
If your read any of the comments by this RETARD that identifies him/it/herself as FAILCANTS, you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about when it comes to AINT FANS. How else can you describe someone but desperate, delusional and afraid, who find delite in the preseason losses of a SUPERIOR RIVAL that won 13gms and replaced them as defending divisional champs, and is predicted to repeat.
If this clown wants to talk about FAIL when it comes to the Falcons, let’s talk about the AINTS:
1-FAILED to defend their NFC South Division title,
2-FAILED to defend their Superbowl title,
3-FAILED to win their 1st rd gm against the Seahawks,
4-FAILED to defeat a team that had one of last yrs worst records,
5-FAILED to defeat the worst team with the worst record in NFL playoff history.
6-FAILED to stop the Seahawks 25th ranked total OFF with their 4th ranked DEF.
7-FAILED to win the battle with their top 5 ranked OFF over the Seahawks much, much lower ranked DEF.
8-FAILED to make any significant additions to improve that NONE PLAY MAKING secondary, that sorry pass rush, and that poor interior run DEF.
Take it from me
August 20th, 2011
10:13 am
it don’t look good folks,even if it is preseason.
coleski
August 20th, 2011
10:16 am
Falcons 2011 either 9-7 or 10-6 at best. It’’s the same year after year. Can’t block, tackle or whatever is called for . I believe if the best football players were on the Falcon team the results would be the same..
Sorry that;s the way it is.
nhe
August 20th, 2011
10:20 am
Geez……….the tackling is fine, quit whining about that! All NFL teams aren’t tackling well because of the new rules on number of full-pad practices. The Falcon’s run D will be top 10 – that’s not the problem. Also, please quit whining about Ryan and the OL – both will be fine. The whining here about a preseason game is really kinda lame.
Quick Concerns and Bright Spots:
Concerns:
- We can’t kick off to the goal line – which means we’ll need to go find a kickoff specialist, that means one less roster spot we need
- DL isn’t getting consistent “push” up the middle in pass rush when Babs and Peters aren’t on the field………though Jerry did have a good push on his sack
- TURNER!!!! – he’s our 3rd best RB……..if we continue to give him 15-20 touches in the regular season, we will NOT be “explosive”
- Concerned that TG88 has lost a step from last season
Bright Spots:
- Harry Douglass looked like the fastest player on the field last night
- Quiz runs GREAT between the tackles……..need to see him with 1st team O in the next 2 preseason games
- WR core as a whole looks great……….and Roddy hasn’t even done anything
- LOVE the 1st unit run D
- Franks can play – allows us to hopefully dump Owens’ and Chauncy Davis’ salaries and sign another DL or LB
Atlien
August 20th, 2011
10:21 am
Hey coleski, know when the world’s gonna end?
Take it from me
August 20th, 2011
10:23 am
Mr Blank is still trying to make chicken salad out of chicken poop,you just can’t do it!
Pauly D
August 20th, 2011
10:30 am
Missed tackles is nbd. Missed assignments and getting burnt: big deal. But that wasn’t happening last night.
This is a ball control, conservative offense. Deal with it.
The O-line needs to gel and the defense has depth issues.
11-5, NFC wildcard.
Greg Mendel
August 20th, 2011
10:31 am
Let’s hope last night’s preseason game isn’t an indication of how the regular season goes. If it is, we can look forward to the FOX broadcast crew yammering on steroids and amphetamines. Non-stop blather about players and teams 1000 miles away. However, we probably learned more about that fat guy they have wandering around the sidelines — except why he’s there. FOX Sports mascot?
SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
10:33 am
Ken: Good write up! Your emotional angst and frustration really flows from it. Nice blend of irrevelent fact and pure fiction. Kudos.
FalconRob
August 20th, 2011
10:35 am
I hope they try out some more kickers. Bosher cannot kick the ball in the end zone. The opponents are going to have great field position after every kick off. Field position is a big key in all games. With the new kick off rules he should be able to kick it without a return or get some one else that can.
Jimmy Crack
August 20th, 2011
10:38 am
All cluck from video football vets and the usual troll traffic.
Oh, the sky is falling! Right. Attention: It. is. the. preseason.
P.S… Trolls have no homes. That’s why they are called trolls.
Worst Offensive Performance Ever - HJones
August 20th, 2011
10:38 am
It was the worst performance by a Falcons offensive team EVER considering the elite players on the offensive first team. We have three explosive offensive players in Roddy White, Julio Jones and Harry Douglas. It is caused by the offensive philosophy and play calling. The game plan appeared to be based solely on the running of one man – Michael Turner. We have the same problem that existed last year especially in the Green Bay game. When will we see the Explosive Play calling?
blord
August 20th, 2011
10:38 am
Oline has to play better but other than that the game was fine. No need to get upset over it. The penalties made the offensive drives stop which is typical of preseason football. In addition, as Roddy said, they were not running anything but basic offensive plays since they play these guys in the reg season. I love what I am seeing from HD and Brent Grimes may be the most underrated player in the league. I also think our LBers looked good.
It makes sense that we are losing these games in the second half. Teams like Jacksonville and Miami have more spots open on their teams and therefore attract better UDFA. As long as we have a couple of guys that standout we are fine.
Michael Koenen
August 20th, 2011
10:39 am
Miss me yet?
good old joe
August 20th, 2011
10:43 am
ITS NOT FOOTBALL WHEN YOU KICK FROM THE 35YRD. LINE PLEASE CHANGE IT BACK
Reality Check
August 20th, 2011
10:48 am
Slapping lipstick on a pig, it’s still a pig.
After 4 seasons I expect more from a veteran qb.
No more excuses………….just sayin
Atlien
August 20th, 2011
10:57 am
It’s preseason football. Exhibition at its best. Lockouts and one a days has affected the whole NFL. Not just us. The die hards have never seen a Falcon team with this much talent. The Falcons are well on their way with an anglo quarterback with a brain. Fairwell bandwagoneers.
HJones
August 20th, 2011
11:04 am
The offensive problems last night are the same problems we saw last year especially in the Green Bay game. How will preseason correct them? It was said many times that the Falcons wanted to have a more EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE but needed that player who could stretch the field. It looks to me that we have three of those players now with Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Harry Douglas. Will we use THEM?
Running Michael Turner on first down over and over for negative or zero yards is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? Three first downs in a half by this elite first team of players is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? One pass reception in the first half by the best wide receiver in the league is an
EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? No catches by your number one draft choice in the first half is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? Getting the ball on your opponents side of the field twice and you score three points is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE? Completing your first pass of the game to Michael
Turner who is not a good receiver and should have been blocking to allow Matt Ryan to throw to one of our explosive receivers is an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE?
Let’s be real here. It was one of the worst performances by a Falcons offensive team EVER considering the personnel that we have on the first team. EXPLOSIVE PLAYERS cannot solely make an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE! EXPLOSIVE TALK for several months does not make an EXPLOSIVE
OFFENSE.
The offensive philosophy and play calling must change if the Falcons offense is to resemble an EXPLOSIVE OFFENSE. The Falcons have the EXPLOSIVE PLAYERS so there should be NO EXCUSES. The offensive game plan and play calling last night looked worse than the worst offensive games of last year. It appeared to me the offensive game plan in the first half was based on the performance of one man – Michael Turner and his running. Did Julio Jones, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez play at all in the first quarter?
Remember Jerious Norwood? The offense could never determine how how to use him? Is there a pattern here?
Reality Check
August 20th, 2011
11:07 am
Enter your comments here
senior falcon
August 20th, 2011
11:11 am
The photo at the top of this article shows “Turnstile” Baker doing his thing.
Chuck
August 20th, 2011
11:11 am
Turner continues to look unbelievably slow – his only big gainers come when the OL blows a hole in the DL at least 1 mile wide – and anybody down to the smalled CB can tackle him by tapping his foot.
For a back that big, he like he weighs 150 – the first defender brings him down waaaaaaay too often. He breaks a good run once out of every 5-6 runs, the rest of which are 1-yard yawners and we are back to 3rd-and-8.
Keeping it Real
August 20th, 2011
11:12 am
Michael Koenen: Yes! I can see where the Falcons who are only about $1 million under the cap would not pay a fortune to resign you, but I’m not sure Bosher is the answer.
MR2
August 20th, 2011
11:14 am
As much as I want to believe in Matty Ice……I’m starting to believe he has a noodle arm and CAN’T make an accurate deep throw. Last night’s performance by him was pitiful
HJones
August 20th, 2011
11:19 am
The offensive problems last night are the same problems we saw last year especially in the Green Bay game. It was said many times that the Falcons wanted to have a more explosive offense but needed that player who could stretch the field. It looks to me that we have three of those players now with Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Harry Douglas.
Running Michael Turner on first down over and over for negative or zero yards is an explosive offense? One pass reception in the first half by the best wide receiver in the league is an explosive offense? No catches by the number one draft choice in the first half is an explosive offense? Getting the ball on your opponents side of the field twice and you score three points is an explosive offense?
Let’s be real here. It was one of the worst performances by a Falcons offensive team EVER considering the elite personnel that we have on the first team.
“Explosive Talk” for several months does not make an explosive offense. The offensive philosophy and play calling must change if the Falcons offense is to resemble an Explosive Offense. The Falcons have the explosive players. The offensive game plan and play calling last night looked worse than the worst offensive games of last year. It was based on the performance of one man – Michael Turner and his running. We could have substituted dummies for Julio Jones, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez in the first half.
Ivan Clapper
August 20th, 2011
11:19 am
Douglas will add a big threat to Ryan’s arsenal this year. With all the available receivers, WHO CAN STOP US? NO VONE NO VONE…………….March us over the Rhine…….Ryan
Atlien
August 20th, 2011
11:23 am
Chuck, Turner is future trade bait
HJones
August 20th, 2011
11:30 am
Same offensive problems last night as last year especially in the Green Bay game. Falcons wanted to have a more explosive offense but needed that player who could stretch the field. We have three of those players now with Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Harry Douglas.
Do we have an Explosive Offense if:
1) Continue to run Michael Turner on first down over and over for negative or zero yards?
2) Complete one pass in the first half to the best wide receiver in the league?
3) Complete zero passes in the first half to number one draft choice?
4) Score three points after getting the ball on your opponents side of the field twice?
5) Complete your first pass to Michael Turner who is not a good receiver and could block to allow more time to complete pass down field to your explosive receivers?
Let’s be real here. It was one of the worst performances by a Falcons offensive team EVER considering the elite personnel that we have on the first team.
Explosive Talk for several months does not make an explosive offense. The offensive philosophy and play calling must change if the Falcons offense is to resemble an Explosive Offense. The Falcons have the explosive players. The offensive game plan and play calling last night looked worse than the worst offensive games of last year. We could have substituted dummies for Julio Jones, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez in the first half.
phil
August 20th, 2011
11:39 am
I’m all for not reading too much into the preseason, but after what I saw last winter against Green Bay, I’m not believing ANYTHING about this team until it actually goes out there and DOES it….
I have a bad feeling that 8-8 might be coming our way here shortly….we’re the Falcons.
JagRob
August 20th, 2011
11:45 am
@JR1967: The Jags are not moving anywhere. Would you like to put your money where your mouth is. The only reason the league wants a team in LA is because of their status as the second largest tv market in the country. They had a shot at the NFL twice, and couldn’t support their teams. Can you not come up with something more intelligent than that?
HJones
August 20th, 2011
11:46 am
Same offensive problems last night as last year. Falcons wanted to have a more explosive offense but needed that player who could stretch the field. We have three of those players now with Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Harry Douglas.
Do we have an Explosive Offense if: Continue to run Michael Turner on first down over and over for negative or zero yards? Complete one pass in the first half to the best wide receiver in the league? Complete zero passes in the first half to number one draft choice? Score three points after getting the ball on your opponents side of the field twice? Complete your first pass to Turner perhaps your worst receiver.
Let’s be real here. It was one of the worst performances by a Falcons offensive team EVER considering the elite personnel that we have on the first team.
Explosive Talk for several months does not make an explosive offense. The offensive philosophy and play calling must change if the Falcons offense is to resemble an Explosive Offense. The Falcons have the explosive players. We could have substituted dummies for Julio Jones, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez in the first half.
Do you remember Jerious Norwood? Is there a pattern?
honest_abe
August 20th, 2011
11:55 am
nhe: spot on analysis.
Gman
August 20th, 2011
11:57 am
Looked like the offense had never played together. Pathetic effort. Thought it was funny how much praise Ryan was getting and he kept throwing the ball out of bounds.
RUDEDAWG
August 20th, 2011
12:01 pm
Wasn’t impressed lastnight with the tackling,Ryan’s play, and the offensive play calling.O-line needs a lot of work also.Next week the starters better come to play,coaches included!
Greg Mendel
August 20th, 2011
12:04 pm
ATTN: Arthur Blank — The Falcons have lost two preseason games. Sell the team! Quick!
Ivan Clapper
August 20th, 2011
12:15 pm
Der Ryan vill march his troops over das Rhine River to Super Bowl das year….No vone can stop der Ryan and company…………No vone
GHunt
August 20th, 2011
12:28 pm
Somebody please tell me what the hell is going on? Kickoff and punt coverage is disgraceful. I am beginning to believe that Noodle Arm Matty Ice will have trouble accurately throwing the deep ball. The Oline look more like Swiss Cheese than road grinders. Most of the backups on defense can be given their release immediately.
Here is a suggestion for the Pittsburgh game. Let the backups play the entire game. We will probably lose 60 to 0 but at least there will be no injuries to the starters.
BVG’s bend but don’t break scheme is at odds with the quick strike offense that the Julio trade was suppose to create.
The philosphy of wait until next game, next season etc is our theme song.
swampfox59
August 20th, 2011
12:32 pm
for those of you putting value in pre-season games rmember Jerry Grandview
BooBoo
August 20th, 2011
12:33 pm
It looked like the Falcon defense has been practicing a lot at getting to the ball carrier in the backfield. I think they did a great job of doing that. Now, I think it is best they start practicing tackling the ball carrier in the backfield. Can they practice that? It might hurt someone.
Once Recent Reader
August 20th, 2011
12:36 pm
One poster indicated another was moronic for saying 2-0 with the starting unit. I don’t understand that. Does anyone here really care about the pre-season record? I look at how the starters perform and how they progress. I didn’t see last night’s game, but definitely against the Dolphins all looked pretty good with the Starters. Trust me, the fans down here in SE Florida were not chirping about the preseason “win” against Falcs. They thought the Falcs O torched them with the starters in. They thought Dolphins starting O did not look good against Falcons D. NO ONE was marveling over a 1-0 record in Dolphin Land on Sports Radio. Quite the opposite. They were impressed by Falcs and unimpressed by Dolphins. Dolphins played better last night so it should be a happy week for the fans. Didn’t seem like the Jaguars scored much against Falcs in first half. But sounds like some bad tacking by D. We’ll see. O-2 . . . .who cares.
Jerome
August 20th, 2011
12:39 pm
Calm down people. There have been many teams in the past that went 0-4 in the preseason and went on to go deep into the playoffs and even win the Super Bowl. Number 1. Teams do not show their true playbook in the pre-season. Number 2. This is all about building technique and stamina, Number 3. Teams are trying to keep players healthy especially this year. I am sick of the pessimistic fans game after game nitpicking every little thing about this team and not realizing that we finally do have one of the elite teams in the NFL and it is better than what we had going on in the 80’s and 90’s. Have you not heard the playoff talk on ESPN and the NFL Network and the Falcons are always in the conversation? So please people smoke a joint and calm down.
Hetch Hetchy
August 20th, 2011
12:42 pm
I see it’s going to be a frustrating year watching Matt Ryan under throw White and Jones. What a waste of speed. Just once I’d like to see Ryan hit Roddy in full stride on a fly pattern. Just once!
Runner-
August 20th, 2011
12:53 pm
Bosher is awful at kickoffs. With the new kickoff rule it should be easy to get it deep in the endzone, but players are having easy chances to make big returns and give our defense unnecessary pressure. I say give Bryant a try at kickoffs, if not, sign another kicker for this duty.
Debbie
August 20th, 2011
1:00 pm
Matt Ryan has certainly improved in articulating excuses for the offense, but not much on the field (see Packers playoff game). I could care less about the preseason record, but if you couldn’t see problems in last night’s team performance, you don’t know much about football. If MR doesn’t develop some toughness, we’ll be looking up from the bottom of the NFC South pile.
jerry
August 20th, 2011
1:11 pm
Peria Jerry appeared to play the entire game after he came back from the injury. What was that all about?
loel
August 20th, 2011
1:41 pm
My Lord,,,,, pleasssse get rid of Michael Turner… What a dud. Secondly he can’t catch a pass…. and to get outside,,,,, absolutely impossible. I know others think this but won’t say it. Such a boring offense. When they line up,,,you already know if its a pass of run from your living room. Surely the other team knows.
Reality Check
August 20th, 2011
1:42 pm
Those 4 draft picks will be felt in the next 2 years.
Just sayin………….
Mystikal
August 20th, 2011
1:47 pm
Tough break, but that’s what Pre-season is for. Now we see we need to work on special teams coverage, tackling, and the O-line continuing to get. But should we come into a lot of injuries I am worried about the depth for the entire team. The backup and 3rd string guys looked utterly horrible. I hope Turner is able to have the same success running with the changes(Dahl) to the O-line.
On a positive note, that Quiz Rodgers is pretty quick huh! I’d like to see more of what he can do. I know we aren’t showing everything in the pre-season, but I hope our offense looks smoother and more dynamic when the real season begins.
Mystikal
August 20th, 2011
1:49 pm
I know we like to bring in good character guys here, but do they all have to be injury prone (Jerry)?
Freddie G
August 20th, 2011
2:04 pm
It is preseason so I am not going to get too bent out of shape on the performane of the Birds. However i expected more from the first team offense. Look at what New England did to Jacsonville and to Tampa Bay. I new the O-Line was an issue and thought TD would have addressed it from last season with a stand-out left tackle, but I am sure he knows what he is doing. The line has never pass protect well and Matt always look scare so same old, same old thing.
Ken Strickland
August 20th, 2011
2:06 pm
SEENTHISB4-Do you even know what the word FICTION means? To call my comments FICTION is to say I was completely wrong and the AINTS really did defend their 2009 NFC South title, and defended their Superbowl title, or actually won their 1st rd playoff gm against Seattle? You’d also have to be saying the Seahawks’ 25th ranked OFF really didn’t score 41pts against your 4th ranked DEF?
You’d also have to be saying I was wrong about Seattle having a losing regular season record this yr, or that they were the 1st team in NFL history to make the playoffs with a losing record? Just for the record, please tell everyone what significant FA moves have the AINTS made to improve your poor run DEF, poor pass rush, and poor secondary play.
You see, this is the type of HEAD BURIED IN THE SAND type of response that are always characterizes you delusional AINT FANS. You can’t indulge in intelligent discourse about the AINTS or the Falcons because you’re always overly sensitive and on the defensive when it comes to logical, well thought out and well presented opinions and facts about your beloved AINTS.
To call my OBVIOUS FACTS fiction is proof positive that you’re totally incapable of dealing with any facts about your BELOVED AINTS, and that you’re also incapable of indulging in intelligent conversation about either team. The Atlanta Falcons were better than your AINTS were last yr, as proven by our record and NFC Divisional Title, and we’re considerably better than you are this yr than we were last yr.
You and your fellow AINT FANATICS are polluting our blogs with the same preseason BS that you polluted our blogs with last yr, and look at how that turned out for you. PEOPLE THAT ARE TOO STUPID TO LEARN FROM THEIR MISTAKES ARE DOOMED TO REPEAT THEM.
JERRY-I think our coaches want to give DT PJerry every chance to establish himself, get his mojo back and win back his starting DT spot. He’s certainly quicker, faster, more athletic, disruptive, and a better pass rusher than CPeters. I also saw an awful lot of OT GReynolds in the 2nd half.
In gm 1 of the exhibition season, we saw WR JJones featured, and in gm 2, we saw WR HDouglas and RB JRogers featured, and all 3 delivered. I believe RB ASmith’s fumbled kickoff return killed his chances of making the team.
COLESKI-Do you remember last yrs preseason when we also lost our 1st 2 exhibition gms, and there was a heated battle for the NCB slot, which CB COwens eventually won, and people just like you were predicting doom and gloom and another 9-7 season, at best? Can you possibly get your mind and memory to recall how last yrs regular season actually turned out?
Freddie G
August 20th, 2011
2:10 pm
My spelling above is atrocious, s/h/b Performance and Jacksonville.
Reality Check
August 20th, 2011
2:11 pm
Why do some people on these blogs type long winded columns but don’t get paid for it?
Just sayin…………….
Bird Dawg Country
August 20th, 2011
2:19 pm
Please don’t let Nike F up Falcons uniforms like they keep doing with UGA….thought we were done with that crap.
Bird Dawg Country
August 20th, 2011
2:20 pm
It’s called preseason for a reason….don’t put too much stock into it people.
Jimmy Crack
August 20th, 2011
2:32 pm
Reality check, just tell us now, who’s going to win the Super Bowl? While you’re at it, when’s the next hurricane gonna hit the U.S.?
You’re just guessin…
You should try guessing the lottery it would be more profitable than guessing a random draft pick’s potential.
Falcon James
August 20th, 2011
2:36 pm
I just gots to say. the falcon defence looking sorry. Caint tackle and caint cover. if I is the opposing team coach, i is throwing the 20 yard pass every singal play. the falcon caint cover. that the end of the story.
steven A.
August 20th, 2011
2:52 pm
Falcons also need a better number 2 quarterback. Chris Redman is very near his end. Cut John Parker Wilson as well.
steven A.
August 20th, 2011
2:57 pm
Cut Antoine Smith and Gatrell Johnson. Bring in Noel Devine quickly, if you have any idea of creativity?
Tony Gonzales was once a great TE, HOWEVER, what can you expect from a 59 year old playa?
Tyrone Shulaces
August 20th, 2011
2:57 pm
Smell it? that smell, the smell of Burnt Toast.
They ought to wear black every game. If they’re
gonna be burnt toast, they might as well look
like burnt toast. Its the talk of the NFL. The
Falcons’ secondary is BAAAAAD. 4-12 if they
don’t fix it.
SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
3:38 pm
Jerry–The real reason Peria played so much was cause Corey got hurt in practice this week. LOL!
A$E3k
August 20th, 2011
3:40 pm
We (the Falcons) really need to address 2 issues if we want to win a super bowl, 1)we need a offensive coordinator 2) we need some BETTER cornerbacks!! Until we address these issues we are going to be in the same position each and every season!
SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
3:46 pm
Ken: What I said was that your facts were irrevelent.
The fiction, is your declaration that the Payton didn’t improve his #4 ranked defense, because he did,…a lot. At the very least they used their #1 to draft a DE. And that is only for starters. I know it, and you know it. LOL!
Truth Speakz
August 20th, 2011
4:24 pm
somebody please explain why they picked up a free agent who is recovering from a knee surgery…im sorry…i dont care what he did in the past….the dude has an injury………
Bird Dawg Country
August 20th, 2011
4:40 pm
it’s preseason….calm down people….half the people that played aren’t gonna be here in September.
And the others that are will get it together…These are glorified scrimmages…that’s all…turn it off till September….it’s meaningless right now
Lesa
August 20th, 2011
4:51 pm
Okay, where is the “explosive” offense the Falcons are supposed to have this year? The starters played for the entire first half, and the offense looked just like it did last year. I agree with “Who Me?” about Ryan’s play: “His rookie year he was fearless and made clutch play after clutch play staying in the pocket and releasing the ball at the last possible moment . . . he’s been a puss for the last 18 months.” I keep hoping to see Ryan get back to that kind of play, but haven’t seen it yet. I’m bummed out and frustrated with my team today. Hope they step it up before the regular season starts.
SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
5:00 pm
They picked up a gimby DE as an act of desperation.
PlanB
August 20th, 2011
5:02 pm
Until we start reg season I’m only worried about NCB. I think this is a big problem like when we had Chris Houston and first year CB, Brent Grimes. One needed experience, the other needed to be gone. That happened but wasn’t fun until it did.
A little off subject but I was watching a tape of the GB & Arizone game. First series Rodgers uses a hard count and gets 5 yd. penalty on tha Cards. We used to use the hardcount alot and it helped. Not only did we get an extra 5 yds. but we got some easier 1st downs and kept the ball moving. We also got the defenses holding back a little worrying about it happening again. Extra 1/2 second each play helps. My point is, we seem to have forgotton or quit using so many little things that mount up, and this can only be blamed on coaches and coordinators. Example: screen passes. Lack of imagination. 1st down = Turner up the middle. 2nd down = same. Atlanta…. we have a problem. MM used to be better than this. Is MS too conservative and holding him back or what? That extra 5 yds always meant alot more than 1/2 a first down to me.
PlanB
August 20th, 2011
5:18 pm
@ Ken S about NCB. I hope you’re right and I’m wrong about Owens. He had some decent games last year while gaining experience but has apparently has lost some confidence.
SeenThisB4
August 20th, 2011
5:38 pm
After the Packer game, Owens has been suffering from PTSD.
GHunt
August 20th, 2011
5:51 pm
DOL, what is the injury status of Cliff Matthews?
BiggdawgK
August 20th, 2011
5:55 pm
Anyone who doubts the city of Atlanta is made up of pathetic bitter transplants need only come to the AJC blogs. All the hate filled inane comments obviously spew from dirt stupid trash that couldn’t find work or just fled their rust belt ghettos because everyone there were scum like them.
Thanks to Atlanta and Georgia being such a great place to live all these carpetbaggers brought their “I hate everyone and everything” mentality to our great state.
Mystikal
August 20th, 2011
6:11 pm
Reverses, Screen passes, flee flickers, double pass, draw plays, wildcat to Julio, tight end screen, hit the deep post or long crossing pattern, etc.
I’m hoping to see some of all of this when the regular season really begins.
loel
August 20th, 2011
6:12 pm
whatever we gave up to get Michael Turner, please see if we can get it back.
Ken Strickland
August 20th, 2011
6:20 pm
And you call drafting a DE in the 2nd rd an noticable improvement? All that does is demonstrate how sorry the DE he’s replacing must have been. Tell me SEENTHISB4, how does starting a rookie DE that wasn’t known as much of a pass rusher in college going to improve your pass rush?
You have a habit of making statements about your team that can’t be supported by facts or common sense assumptions. You’re also starting a DT that’s accumulated a grand total of 4 sacks in his entire 7yr career. Please explain how these 2 moves can be considered improvements of any kind? And your best pass rushing DE will be replaced by a backup who’s totaled 7 career sacks in his 5yr career, because he has to serve a 4gm suspension. Please do everyone a favor and at least try to explain how any of these moves can be considered improvements of any kind, especially to improve an already poor pass rush?
All I really expect from you is another of your song and dance routines, because you’re too delusional and deep in denial to even make an honest attempt to answer any of my questions. The truth is, I’m not convinced you’re even capable.
REALITY CHECK-Why would someone repeatedly read these long winded posts and then complain about them being long winded? Do you have difficulty reading and comprehending more than a few sentences? I guess it takes an idiot to understand that idiotic attempt at logic. Have you ever heard of a scroll button? JUST SAYIN……………HEE, HEE, HEE!
Mike is back
August 20th, 2011
6:21 pm
DLed, I said it’s preseason…I said I wasn’t going to get upset…but yo hype…ant matching the BIRDS performance…We got Roddy and HJ…U GOTTA GET THEM THE BALL…then Turner can eat.
We don’t have the type of OL that can feature Turner…BTW…Turner got lose some weigh…it takes too long…for Turner to get through the whole.
NOW Roddy and HJ…U gotta get them ball…WORD UP!!
Mike is back
August 20th, 2011
6:30 pm
Geeez, yeah…I read that too…ANYWAY we gotta get Roddy and HJ the ball!!!!
Mystikal
August 20th, 2011
6:40 pm
DOL,
That is a good question. Which Michael Turner do you think we’ll see this season? the 225-230lb pro bowl version or the slow 250ish plodder?
And I couldn’t tell exactly, but what was up with the O-line yesterday? I know McClure was out, but how did Reynolds look?
whodat70816
August 20th, 2011
6:47 pm
Here’s a FACT for you Ken….
Matty Ice and his offence stunk it up last night. Preseason or not…..deal with that Fact.
Don't feed Aints trolls (damn right)
August 20th, 2011
7:57 pm
Ray Edwards “MAY” make his Atlanta debut.
Fan
August 20th, 2011
8:05 pm
The Falcons have some problems. We are giving up too many big yard plays and long drive on defense. We cannot get off the field. There seems too be not much pressure on the QB and on offense the same play calling. If we do not get some help at safety and CB we are in trouble. We have too many holes and no answers. TD,& MS we got too get it right or else.
lower case b
August 20th, 2011
8:36 pm
The Falcons could have signed bigger names for the defense, but I don’t think they could have gotten faster, more agile or deeper. Maybe it’s the the scheme. Maybe VanGorder has taken this defense as far as he can. Maybe it’s the same with Mularky & the offense.
Don't feed Aints trolls (It isn't 2009 anymore)
August 20th, 2011
9:47 pm
Yeah, those Aint’s looked sharp tonight. Two games in a row that the starting offense looked horrendous.
Don't feed Aints trolls (It isn't 2009 anymore)
August 20th, 2011
9:55 pm
FACT: Falcons have look far superior in the first two games.
FACT: If my team’s offense looked like theirs, I would not be commenting on another team’s blog
Me
August 20th, 2011
11:17 pm
Remember the oline was without McClure. That to me was the real problem on the oline. And the defense was without Ray Lewis. Calm down preseason champions wanna be’s.
IceMelt
August 20th, 2011
11:34 pm
Enter your comments here
IceMelt
August 20th, 2011
11:35 pm
“i like matt ryan in this game, he looked good. and ready for the season.”
This guys got jokes?^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
IceMelt
August 20th, 2011
11:39 pm
Prediction: Pittsburgh will own both lines of scrimmage.. Game over….
D man
August 21st, 2011
9:41 am
We have had a a nice lead in the last two games until the starters exited the games. Looking good so far Falcons…
Birdman Dave
August 21st, 2011
10:05 am
Smitty didn’t show any of the playbook!These games are for conditioning. When the reg. season games start thats when you’ll see the REAL FALCONS!!!
Reality Check
August 21st, 2011
11:18 am
Signing a deep threat does not increase qb arm strength.
Just sayin……………….
HeardThisB4
August 21st, 2011
11:19 am
The Falcons uneven effort sure is less concerning after watching the Aints first team defense last night. I think the Texans just scored again. The rush defense must have given up 150 yards in the 1st half and Marshawn Lynch doesn’t even play for the Texans. LOL – Falcons will score 100 points combined in the two games against this defense.
M. G.
August 21st, 2011
11:37 am
Everybody relax..this is preseason and this is what preseason is all about-getting ready. Against the Burgh next week the offense will play longer and you will see a better offense. Trust me! Preseason means nothing-when the season opens they will be ready-getting Edwards on the weak side will shore up a good defense.
Offensively JJ will have a great year and put up good numbers opposite RW and TG.
Super Bowl? Not this year!
:)
August 21st, 2011
2:45 pm
Hetch Hetchy
August 20th, 2011
12:42 pm
I see it’s going to be a frustrating year watching Matt Ryan under throw White and Jones. What a waste of speed. Just once I’d like to see Ryan hit Roddy in full stride on a fly pattern. Just once!
You must be a “new” fan or you’ve never watched a regular seaon game.
Ken Strickland
August 21st, 2011
7:08 pm
WHODAT70816-What were you saying about Matty Ice and the Falcons stinking it up against the Jaguars? Tell me, how do you think your BELOVED AINTS smell after that cesspool of a performance against the Texans? That was such a sorry performance that they looked like they didn’t belong on a field with an average college team. TALK ABOUT STINKING UP SOMETHING!
I want all of you AINT trols to come on here and tell us what happened to your BELOVED AINTS. Are all of you too delusional and deep in denial to recognize the absolute A$$ whipping your AINTS took without even putting up a fight? At least we gave ourselves a chance to win.
And please don’t tell us they were working on something, because whatever they were working on still needs a hell of a lot more work HA, HA, HA, HA! I told you DELUSIONAL FANATICS this yrs version of the AINTS isn’t as good as the team that laid that monumental embarrassment of an egg in last yrs playoffs against the 7-9 Seahawks.
Ken Strickland
August 21st, 2011
7:15 pm
SEENTHISB4-Please tell us again how your DL will be outstanding this yr. The only way I can see them being outstanding, after that pitiful performance, is when they’re OUT STANDING ON THE FIELD HA, HA, HA, HA! That team that took the field against he Texans is the AINTS of old. YOUR BELOVED AINTS ARE REGRESSING MY FRIENDS, ACCEPT IT.
Ken Strickland
August 21st, 2011
7:25 pm
WHODAT70816-Here’s a fact for you to deal with. The Houston Texans turned the 09 NFC South and Superbowl champions into the AINTS of old, by giving them the KATRINA treatment. They were totally dominated and embarrassed by the Texans. NOW DEAL WITH THAT FACT, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA!
Ken Strickland
August 21st, 2011
7:31 pm
After blowing up our blog yesterday, have you noticed there hasn’t been a single post by any of these AINT FANATICS since that complete A$$ whipping Houston put on them? Did you see that GRAND CENTRAL STATION they call a DEF? After all is said and done, it was their own team that shut them up and sent them into hiding, POETIC JUSTICE AT ITS BEST.
Don't feed Aints trolls (It isn't 2009 anymore)
August 21st, 2011
9:31 pm
LOL…. I have noticed that Ken.
Chandler goes Deep..
August 21st, 2011
10:36 pm
Have no fear the Steelers are going to crush and stomp the falcons..
Steelers will own both lines, Game over….
Enter your comment…….
Ken Strickland
August 22nd, 2011
12:25 am
CHANLDER-Are you engaging in wishful thinking by wishing the Steelers will do to the Falcons what the Texans did to the AINTS, and that’s beat the COW WALKING CRAP OUT OF US? Unlike the AINTS, we have an actual DEF and not a bunch of matadors pretending to be DEF linemen.
Greg Mendel
August 22nd, 2011
6:26 pm
The preseason game with the Steelers should be fun — IF you’re interested in watching mostly new players practicing in pads. That’s what these preseason games are. No coach in his right mind is going to risk injuries by playing full-tilt for a meaningless win. Many coaches don’t even have game plans for preseason. They’re evaluating players. The “fun stuff” Coach Smith is planning is being practiced in private at Flowery Branch, and we won’t get to see it until we play the Chicago Bears. When we see it, however, I’m betting it’s going to be very, very nice.
Ray Edwards may play next weekend | Fantasy Demon
August 26th, 2011
2:16 pm
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