Atlanta Falcons: Koetter on struggling run game: ‘Mike Turner . . . had no chance’
FLOWERY BRANCH — Falcons offense coordinator Dirk Koetter, in his first interview since the offense repeatedly failed in short yardage situations against the New Orleans Saints, acknowledged that the short yardage offense is a major problem for his unit.
Also, unsolicited, he noted that on a majority of Michael Turner’s 13 runs that he “had no chance” because “we had free runners at the point of attack.” Turner finished with 15 yards and was stuffed on key third-and-goal from the Saints’ 1-yard line.
The question was if Jacquizz Rodgers had earned himself more carries.
Here are the highlights from Koetter’s interview session:
ON THE SHORT YARDAGE OFFENSE: “We’ve got to do better. It’s highly unusual that you have a higher percentage on the season , 60 percent and third and 4 to 5; and we’re 50 percent on third and 1 to 3. That’s very unusual. To be third or whatever we are in the NFL in third down conversions and be only 50 percent on third and one is not what you’re shooting for. But we’ve got to do a better job. On a couple of them you have to give them credit for what they did on defense. Coaching-wise we’ve got to have a better plan.”
WHAT MAKES THOSE SITUATIONS SO CHALLENGING?: “They are challenging because you need one yard and everybody knows you need one yard. That’s what makes it challenging. It’s like you’re trying to make one yard and they’re trying to defend one yard. Maybe we ought to just pretend its third and 10 and we might be better off.”
HOW IS IT SUPPOSED TO ALL WORK TOGETHER?: “There’s always multiple parts. Sometimes we have checks on. WE are checking for different looks. The very first one the other day, we just didn’t block it right. We blocked the look wrong. We either didn’t prepare them good enough or they didn’t recognize it good enough. The second one we threw a pass and they ran an all-out blitz on one side, so we had some protection issues. The second time we threw a pass and I’d call that play in a heart beat. We didn’t execute it that time. Any single play out there, you can never just say it’s this guy’s fault or this group’s fault. There is always multiple reasons.”
IS THIS A BAD THING?: “Yeah, it’s a bad thing. If you had a magic wand and could wave it, then it would be easy to fix everything if you had that magic wand. Again, that’s one part of the game. We came up short in that part and eventually that added up to us coming up short on the score board. Your goal is on offense, you break it down into different segments. You want to be good on first down. You want to be good on third down. You want to be good in the red zone. You want to be good in short yardage. You want to be good on goal line. You want to protect the passer. You want to run the ball good. It’s hard to do all of those well all of the time. We definitely came up short in that area.
HAS JACQUIZZ EARNED HIMSELF SOME MORE CARRIES OR WILL THE SPLIT STAY THE SAME: “We never go into a game. We only ran the ball 18 times. We need to run the ball more efficiently as a team. It doesn’t matter who the runner is. When you look at the tape on the majority of Mike Turner’s runs in the game the other day, he had no chance. We had free runners at the point of attack. Jacquizz did a good job when he was in there. He touched the ball, but some of that could be luck of the draw. We’ll see how it plays out. Touches on this team are always going to be an issue because we have so many good skill guys. One guys increase in touches is going to come at the expense of another guy. Who is that? That’s the million dollar question.”
HOW DID RODGERS 18-YARD RUN LOOK ON FILM: “That was a nice run. He did a nice job. That was a pretty play. We needed one more. We needed one more of those.”
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186 comments Add your comment
Michael M.
November 13th, 2012
7:38 pm
Just 1 yard huh ? I have seen this b 4……………….hahaha like last year ?
No pun intended STB4zip…………….hehehe
Yorker
November 13th, 2012
7:49 pm
NO BIG DEAL, A LOT OF GAMES LEFT.
Answer This
November 13th, 2012
7:53 pm
I like how DK did not throw TTMT33 under the bus ( tip toe mike turner 33). Now on the other hand I hate how it put all the pressure and responsibility on the line! I hope and pray that he is in TTMT33 face this week and let him know he gave him a pass and that he expects MORE! MORE! I also hope that this does not change our mode of attack and have to get that fat angus more touches….cause he proved he is not what he used to be! However we still RISE UP! carda u on deck to get taken down by an angry group of birds!
Edd
November 13th, 2012
7:54 pm
My God we are 8-1 with a 3 game lead in the division and THE best record in the NFL. 30 other teams wished they were in our shoes. Move on, let it go and it may have been a blessing, learn from it and move to the next game.
md
November 13th, 2012
7:58 pm
Good idea, treat it as any other play and the defense has to treat it as any other play.
Who on here didn’t know the Birds were going to give it to Turner as the lone back last year in the Playoffs? It’s called predictability, and the Birds are notorious for it. Everybody on the planet knows what the play is going to be. Open it up and use the same plays that got you down there……
Great Falconi
November 13th, 2012
7:58 pm
Turner doesn’t have the quickness to make a move when he needs to. Our O-line isn’t great at run-blocking, but there are holes that Turner can’t hit because of his weight/age/blood-alcohol level/whatever.
joja boi
November 13th, 2012
7:58 pm
Like the feedback by Koetter. Got to be better!
Falcons RiseUp
November 13th, 2012
8:05 pm
Coach need to start Antone Smith get some fresh feet in the backfield switch it up a little
Falcon James
November 13th, 2012
8:05 pm
Well not being able to 1 yard is a HUGE problem. This has happened several times this year. We have no confidence that we convert on 3rd and 1 ft, much less 3rd and 1 yard and 4th and 1 yard. How many times this year have we needed a Foot and lost yardage. Yes this is a HUGE problem. I don’t know Rodgers is the answer, but I can tell you this. Turner has had all the changes I would be willing to give him. Its half was through the season and this is his worst season since he became a Pro. That is a HUGE problem. If we are going to make some changes, lets start with Turner not starting next week. What have we got to lose? We have no running game anyway, so anyone who does better will be an improvement. We can always put a pound cake, 40 oz, and stripper pole in the End Zone for Magic Mike to run to. It seems he is more interested in those three things than anything else.
Edd
November 13th, 2012
8:08 pm
The problem was the early penalty by Asante that put us on the 28 instead od the 13 yrd line and had to settle for a field goal. When you get the momentum don’t turn around and give the other team the mo right back. Yeah you had a 10 point lead but may have been 14 and you hadn’t won the game yet so it was not a time to celebrate and get a penalty, if the game is out of reach then you can talk but not early in the first quarter. Mike Smith looked Pissed and so was I, this aint Philly. dON’T SHOOT YOURSELF IN THE FOOT, I’m letting it go, on to Arizona.
Edd
November 13th, 2012
8:12 pm
Falcons 35 – 13 over Arizona, 9-1, do ya’ll feel better.
chuck
November 13th, 2012
8:14 pm
Mike M why don’t you just get on your knees and blow stb4.
Edd
November 13th, 2012
8:20 pm
While I’m predicting, Falcons Green Bay Chicago NY Giants San Fran Seattle in the Playoffs. No eartly idea just sayin, crystal ball a little blurry.
Edd
November 13th, 2012
8:23 pm
While I’m predicting, Falcons Green Bay Chicago NY Giants San Fran Seattle in the Playoffs. No earthly idea just sayin, crystal ball a little blurry.
MrShields
November 13th, 2012
8:26 pm
Luck of the draw my ass. Its cause Quizz is faster, and more agile. Its Called the Burner is Burned Out. Put in the Spark!!!
Dennis
November 13th, 2012
8:26 pm
Well, DUH! Maybe he didn’t have any where to go because it’s too damned predictable!
I’m not a defensive co-ordinator and I only missed ONE call the entire game (where the play called was Turner up the middle).
Mee Too
November 13th, 2012
8:26 pm
Mike Smith and Koetter,
We fans are not stupid nor idiots. Don’t try to pull that BS on us. It’s not going to work. Michael Turner is a negative runner not just this year but in previous years.
SCFalcon
November 13th, 2012
8:32 pm
Two words on the run game problems, Harvey Dahl…………………….
David
November 13th, 2012
8:38 pm
A great running back makes holes ! Get Rid Of Turner !
Edd
November 13th, 2012
8:39 pm
True, we miss Harvey and Ovie and turner is slow.
Edd
November 13th, 2012
8:41 pm
Ivory ran like his life depended on it, i’d like to see the Falcons get a back like that.
Eric C.
November 13th, 2012
8:49 pm
I’ve been as critical of Turner as anyone the past couple of seasons, but c’mon folks…he really didn’t have a chance, even Koetter admits it.
Eric C.
November 13th, 2012
8:49 pm
I’ve watch replay of those goal-line situations, and not even Barry Sanders would gotten a yard.
David
November 13th, 2012
8:50 pm
Why in Gods name can you not use Snelling, Please Please make a change.
SCFalcon
November 13th, 2012
8:51 pm
Maybe if they lined up some strippers at the back of the end zone, Turner would be motivated to run faster and through defensive players. It got him moving fast at 4 am after the Broncos game.
Eric C.
November 13th, 2012
8:51 pm
Ever since Ovie went down in Detroit last season, the short yardage running game has been doomed.
4BsihTneeS
November 13th, 2012
8:51 pm
You know who was a royal failure inside the red zone for the fal can’ts? Matt Ryan, he was as bad as the former burner.
The fal can’ts have a fourthandphobia versus the SAINT s.
lowdownjj
November 13th, 2012
8:52 pm
Seems like Mud Duck is the lone voice for the O-Line. Gotta lot of respect for Mcclure… he is our longest tenured Falcon and a warrior. Makes ya go hmmmm though
Eric C.
November 13th, 2012
8:52 pm
If Snelling was the feature back he would do no better…the same with Rodgers.
SCFalcon
November 13th, 2012
8:53 pm
Good point Eric. But he doesn’t even try to move the pile. I know….. easy to say when you are watching it on TV.
techduck
November 13th, 2012
8:53 pm
Roddy you gave it away when you started to run that big ole mouth Last week.The team release Ray Edwards today,which they sould have not gotten in the first place.I want everybody to remeber this name(techmule)that i told you so.Micheal Turner is going to have a big game his next game coming up.When he does you all STUPID people are going to forget about all them 3rd down 1 and could:nt get a half a yard then have to punt again.Watch and see if am right again and again and again.
SCFalcon
November 13th, 2012
8:56 pm
If he has a big game next week, I will sing his praises and forget about all the 3rd and 1’s. I promise….
Is it techduck or techmule. I want to write this down so I don’t forget.
Eric C.
November 13th, 2012
8:58 pm
I’ve said all along it seems Turner has lost some explosiveness coming off the snap…but the problem that exists now seems to transcend Turners lost step. An angrier running back like Chris Ivory or the old Marion Barber would be better…but it is tough trying to juke people in the backfield.
LMAO
November 13th, 2012
9:02 pm
“A great back makes holes” might be the dumbest comment I’ve read so far today.
Eric C.
November 13th, 2012
9:05 pm
SCFalcon, let’s hope for a big day from the defense…AZ is coming off the bye and I’m sure their defense will be tough.
Heard It All Before
November 13th, 2012
9:06 pm
Witch Hunt Patrol:::: The Highest Paid Offensive Mind N The Falcons Organization Says ” Turner Had No Chance” 2 Reach The Line Of Scrimmage,And Folks Still Blame Turner… HILLARIOUS… The Issue Is Dimmitrioff’s OL Draft Picks… G.Reynolds,S.Baker,J.Hawley,M.Jhonson Have All Been BUST’s!!! No Push,Holes Or Runnin Lanes Would Evan Make Eric Dickerson Look Bad,These Blogs R Just “Witch Hunts”,If Any1’s To Blame,How Bout Looking @ Dimmitrioff’s Draft Record ((A. Dent,D. Franks,K. Mier,C. Owens,R. James,S. Adkins… Included))!!! #Get_A_Clue
Chris
November 13th, 2012
9:08 pm
Why up the middle every time? Everyone in the stadium sees that coming, especially the defense!
Dirk Koetter: Michael Turner didn’t have a chance on majority of runs
November 13th, 2012
9:11 pm
[...] only ran the ball 18 times. We need to run the ball more efficiently as a team. It doesn’t matter who the runner is,” Koetter said, via D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. [...]
Adogg36
November 13th, 2012
9:17 pm
Tuner costing us games get him up out of here.Dis been going on since about 2 seasons ago.
Ledbetter blocked me
November 13th, 2012
9:22 pm
On those short yardage downs Matty didn’t deliver. He had more chances to complete a pass but didn’t! Pressure will make ice melt.
coleski
November 13th, 2012
9:22 pm
This o-line can’t block in the run game. I don’t undeerstand whynot, but they can’t. They did’nt last
year. Not even when Ovie was here.
coleski
November 13th, 2012
9:24 pm
They cant block in the run game.
marcus
November 13th, 2012
9:25 pm
i just want to know why did we have a pulling guard on that fourth down run put a hat on a hat and got it done turner needs to run harder point blank period run like u got a chip on your shoulder lower that big head of your and get big legs a churning
Dirk Koetter: Michael Turner didn’t have a chance on majority of runs | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 13th, 2012
9:25 pm
[...] only ran the ball 18 times. We need to run the ball more efficiently as a team. It doesn’t matter who the runner is,” Koetter said, via D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. [...]
Adogg36
November 13th, 2012
9:27 pm
Even on da power poll dey saying our running game going to be an issue in da playoffs.
chucktown38
November 13th, 2012
9:41 pm
Seems like Turner fails to the turf on first contact way to much
Great Falconi
November 13th, 2012
9:44 pm
It’s a combination of Turner and the O-line, of course. The problem is that the O-line can do a better job and Turner still won’t hit the hole because he can’t get there. It’s up to Smith and Koetter to realize that they have to use all their guys in the backfield and do what they do best instead of running it up the gut to no effect.
Daron
November 13th, 2012
9:47 pm
koetter — don’t blame turner
mcclue — don’t blame the oline
who should I blame for that terrible offensive performance???
Tom(Independent Viet Vet-USAF)
November 13th, 2012
9:53 pm
SCFalcon – For the life of me, I’ll never understand why they let bad boy Harvey Dahl get away?
datruf
November 13th, 2012
9:53 pm
The problem is with the play calling. If the running game is not working (which it’s more than not working, it’s a negative play waiting to happen) PASS THE BALL! Most of the game, we really had two downs to pick up a first. We’d run the ball on first…lose 2 then pass on 2nd and 3rd. Sometimes we’d recover the 12 needed….sometimes we wouldn’t.
When we give up the run, we score. Why do we need balance? The need for balance is an untruth. Let’s score 3 or 4 tds then start trying to run.
Last week with Dallas it was the same way. Go back and look at that game….we’d drive 75 yards, get to the 15 or 20 and start running. ??? GIVE IT UP! Turner is not an NFL talent anymore.
The insistence on running the ball is costing us wins. The game should have never been that close. Let Ryan open it up and we can’t be beat….regardless of our defense.
VON TRAPP
November 13th, 2012
9:55 pm
TAKE DAS CONCRETE BOOTS OFF VON TURNER’S FEET AND THEN VE SEE POSITIVE RESULTS IN DAS NEXT GAME
Esquire
November 13th, 2012
9:56 pm
Falcons first play from scrimmage………………70% of their defense is shooting for #33 and he’s stuffed for a loss. Not how you want to roll when you’re trying to make a statement.
datruf
November 13th, 2012
9:56 pm
At the end of halves and the end of games…defenses know we’re going to pass but they can’t stop us.
This is the OC’s fault.
savannah buzz
November 13th, 2012
10:26 pm
It was my fault that Turner did not get those goal line touchdowns. I had him in my fantasy lineup, which pretty much guaranteed that he’d come up short.
kenfuller
November 13th, 2012
10:31 pm
MT is an expensive joke. An anchor dragging the team down. Release him.
Ed
November 13th, 2012
10:39 pm
Everything will work itself out against Arizona this week. I think Jaquizz Rodgers definitely needs more touches, he’s just way to sneaky not to get more PT.
buckhead benny
November 13th, 2012
10:40 pm
They MClure was getting pushed back several yards by Sedreck Ellis- I think when Konz takes over cent next year and they need to get a quality guard ever since they let Harvel dahl go its been a nightmare at that spot- Garrett Reynolds is a quality back up-
I personally think the DT spot needs to be addressed I thought it going into the season and everyone laughed at me but they need a john jenkins type dt to go next to Babineaux those rb’s from the other team will find it much harder to run thru that gap moving foward-
Next Man Up
November 13th, 2012
10:48 pm
We gave that game away numerous times. And when you can’t score from the 1 yrd line in 3 plays to win the game, you don’t deserve it anyway. Only one bad game out of every 9 we can live with. Can we get one of those Aints running backs? They run with energy and quickness like they want the ball (unlike ours). How can you leave Graham open all day? Did our DEs lay a hand on Brees (other than the congrats hugging after the game?). What happened to the Hartsfield D moving around to confuse the QB reads? Are we saving that for the playoffs?
Falcons RiseUp
November 13th, 2012
10:48 pm
Yes it’s not just Turner the offensive line can do much better at protecting the run & Coach can switch it up a little use all our RB’s especially Antone Smith give Matt that extra run he need in the backfield
Slaw Dawg
November 13th, 2012
10:56 pm
Turner is absolutely the worst starting running back of any NFL team. He reminds me of an old Falcon running back from Tennessee, Haskel Stanback, good for a few years but after taking a beating year in and year out the only hole he wanted to find was in the turf. You could breathe on him hard and he would fall down in order to not take an unnecessary hit, it’s the same with Turner he is looking to get down and avoid getting hit, he has turned soft from the abuse of the last several years. It is now time for the Falcons to admit it and move on with another running back. Turner has realized that little ball mostly certainly draws a rowdy crowd. I have been looking for the Falcons to draft a running back now for a while, especially after last year.
Falcons RiseUp
November 13th, 2012
10:59 pm
If we want to win football games in the NFL we have to let our players use their talent take the handcuffs off & let them play their game just remind them to keep it professional this not college football & Coach need to use our players quit letting great talent ride the bench like Antone Smith as RB keep Spoon on the field when we need him call trick plays a couple bootlegs lets get it together coaching & staff Atlanta is due a Super Bowl none in history so let’s make history we have a great team of players it’s time to start calling the right plays, using our talent & making the shots at least calling them anyways
Mikey
November 13th, 2012
11:02 pm
Take look at the re-play of the 3rd and one where M. Ryan did a quarterback sneak. See the offensive line surge forward, pushing the defense a full two yards down field. The Falcons made that first down. Then look at any 15 running plays. See the O-Line get pushed two yards into the backfield, with at least three players within a yard of M. Turner as he gets the handoff. The O’Line is dong a MUCH better job of pass blocking this year and Koeter is slowing down the pass rush considerably by using screens and draws. However, our O-Line needs to improve the run blocking if they are to win in the playoffs. I did see Konz push forward on several occassions but it was rare for anyone else. I think they might be able to do it but stronger personnel would certainly help. You can see that in this game they just did not have the strength or technique to overwhelm the defensive opposition. The New Orleans defense looked pretty good on Sunday, however their track record shows them so far this season to be one of the worst defenses in the history of the NFL. I hope that this provides motivation at O-Line pracice this week.
Falcons RiseUp
November 13th, 2012
11:04 pm
D. Orlando Ledbetter take my opinion all the way to the coach & I guarantee we win a Super Bowl
Next Man Up
November 13th, 2012
11:06 pm
Dirk Koetter came up short in the red zone by using the Mularky playbook.
backatcha
November 13th, 2012
11:11 pm
We are pathetic supporters of our sports teams. They have played lights out for 8 straight games and lose 1 which they were bound to do! We treat them like they’re not prone to error! Yes, it was 1 yard and we definitely blew opportunities; however, this is a defining moment for our guys. Yes, Roddy needs to shut up and play ball but we all know that’s not going to happen. Yes, we got a little arrogant and needed some humility. Hopefully, we takeaway from the experience. Technically, we should be 6-3. Everybody chill & pray! I would rather it be now than later! NO was the last time we wanted to lose to, but we did! Are we gone “put up or shut up?” Gut check time!!! Go D-birds
bo joe ellis
November 13th, 2012
11:25 pm
The Burner has burned out.
SCFalcon
November 13th, 2012
11:49 pm
Tom, I think Harvey Dahl set the attitude for the whole O line. He was nasty. Turner ripped off big runs when he was on the right side.
SCFalcon
November 13th, 2012
11:51 pm
Backatcha nobody is complaining about 8-1, we just don’t want to see it 8-2 or 8-3………..
JBIRD
November 14th, 2012
12:03 am
I think your right too on the play calling!
We’re still way ahead of other teams,but i think
Less penalties and less trash talking and more action
FALCONS RISE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!
atlfalconsfan0125
November 14th, 2012
12:09 am
I hope this isnt a sign of implosion.
Atlanta Falcons: Koetter on struggling run game: ‘Mike Turner . . . had no chance’ | NFL Online News
November 14th, 2012
12:09 am
[...] Atlanta Falcons This entry was posted in Atlanta Falcons and tagged Atlanta, chance, Falcons, game, Koetter, Mike, struggling, Turner. Bookmark the permalink. ← Jaguars’ Shorts could be primed for big finish (Pro Football Weekly) [...]
Arizona Cardinals Defense
November 14th, 2012
12:21 am
Hello Matty Ice can’t wait to beat you down.
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12:39 am
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12:40 am
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Ovie M
November 14th, 2012
12:43 am
Umm, I’m available.
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12:53 am
[...] Link to story [...]
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12:54 am
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12:55 am
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1:09 am
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November 14th, 2012
1:10 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Curtis Payne
November 14th, 2012
1:18 am
Can’t wait to see the Bears tear that a$$ up in the playoffs and mike smith is fired
tom
November 14th, 2012
1:41 am
So much talk about not making one yard. What about the breakdown in the Falcon’s defense. Missed tackles, non-tackles. blown coverage. They put up to many points.
Esquire
November 14th, 2012
1:54 am
I am a blind Falcons wonk, that believes that we are going to the Super Bowl…
BBQ MAN
November 14th, 2012
2:08 am
whatever happened to offtackle and toss sweep calls?
Falcons | Make roster move | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
2:09 am
[...] Link to story [...]
FalconJim
November 14th, 2012
2:13 am
Yep, Michael Turner never had a chance! And as long as he’s in a Falcon’s uniform WE’LL NEVER HAVE A CHANCE at winning a Playoff Game. Get him the heck outta here….we can do better at RB, than a slow, overweight, over-the-hill player like Turner!!!
Now, I would be the first to say that I appreciate MT33’s contribution over the last 4+ years….he was a “work-horse” for us….but his time has come and gone. Sorry, Mike….it’s all about production, and giving ourselves the best chance at winning games.
So with that said, I hope Smitty and Dimitroff realize this, and get their heads together and find us a running back, SOON!!! Time’s a wastin’, and the Playoffs will be here before we know it, and we desperately NEED a Premier back with some speed…
Arizona Cardinals Defense
November 14th, 2012
2:15 am
Esquire its about time you woke up and smelled the coffee. I still remember the 2 picks, safety, and fumble the last playoff game we played.
Creaky
November 14th, 2012
2:21 am
He can make all the excuses he wanys to, but the fact of the matter is MT looks like he’s running in plowed ground.
Titans | Colin McCarthy to benefit from bye | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
2:39 am
[...] Link to story [...]
The Burner Turner
November 14th, 2012
2:39 am
Listen you ppl stop complainging bout me. My legs feel good. I can crash a hole harder than Magic city. I dont drink no more so dont put that on me. Tonight I had 4 large cheeseburgers, 3 pepsis, a huge salad, and a lemon pie my mama made me. I hate my diet. Anyway my legs are huge. When I cant make a yard you complain. When I cant make 20 yds you complain. Hey I got 200 carrys and 433 yds this year. At least I am getting off on the ball. I hate when I run into them big guys so quick. Its like bam and I am looking at the sky. I remember when I could have bounced off ppl and run over ppl. No more. I told coach, I needed to put on some more weight so as to knock ppl off me. He said I needed to lose weight, and I was slow. Can you imagine the gall of that.
Oh well, I got to get to dinner now. we are having prime rib and mashed taters. I got a buddy of mine in the kitchen to slip me a primo early . I just ate it . Now I can go to chow and not have ppl look at me when I down 2 lbs of the ground round.
Can we go to the SuperBowl with this team and win. Yeh if we get a running game. hahahahahaa. Oh thats me .
oh well. See ya at the club
GaDawgsEamOut
November 14th, 2012
3:03 am
Atlanta still has a hard time getting the A gap open for turner. As the competition has increased and we’v seen close games already, just happened the Aints played the best Defense they have all yr. Though it can and will be a issue, as our Falcons will see more physcial dlines bringing pressure. Spoon was missed considerably, considering that bree’s used his TE whenever he felt the need. Lots of mistakes to clean up before the next matchup with nawlins in the Ga dome!
jerry
November 14th, 2012
6:06 am
A damning indictment of Mike Smith.
http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/8622858/the-falcons-seal-their-own-fate-rest-week-10-news
Buddy Landel
November 14th, 2012
6:49 am
Dennis
November 13th, 2012
8:26 pm
I’m not a defensive co-ordinator and I only missed ONE call the entire game (where the play called was Turner up the middle).
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Bullsh!+ alert!!!
drew
November 14th, 2012
6:57 am
How about spreading it out on short yardage instead of bunching up and trying to shove Turner through 11 guys in the box? When we line up tight, everyone in the stadium knows what’s coming. Spread it out and pass it, or sneak it, or QB draw…or SOMETHING other than our 11 guys trying to push their 11 guys back a yard.
Buddy Landel
November 14th, 2012
7:00 am
QB sneak on quick silent count.
vesaversa
November 14th, 2012
7:56 am
BS Turner look as if he tip toeing he is not busting the holes like he once did . It is time that the Falcons find themselves a bigger more diverse running back .
Nativebird
November 14th, 2012
8:10 am
BS. Turner is done.
BobDawg
November 14th, 2012
8:35 am
It’s not that hard… Line Julio Jones in the backfield along with Quizz and you can either Launch Julio up and over the pile or toss sweep to Quizz on a quick count….
Armchair Observer
November 14th, 2012
8:35 am
I always thought Turner was more suited to be a fullback than a featured runner.
Jim Nazium
November 14th, 2012
8:46 am
Turner runs like he has cement cleats on…pitiful. Heck I am 48 years old and I could not have done any worse than he did. Kick him to the curb and get a real running back. Geeeeeeeeesh.
old man
November 14th, 2012
8:53 am
D. Orlando Ledbetter: Any chance we might see some touches by guys like Snelling or Antone Smith, just as a change of pace?
Dirk Koetter: Who’s Antone Smith?
Bills | Chris Kelsey uncertain for Week 11 | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
8:53 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Bills | Stevie Johnson critical of play call | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
8:54 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Jimmy Crack
November 14th, 2012
9:04 am
Interviewing coaches is like raking leaves in a windstorm.
A complete waste of time.
You might as well interview a politician about how well he has done his own job.
Jets | Do not believe in Tim Tebow | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
9:08 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Steelers | Hoping Ben Roethlisberger can play soon | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
9:09 am
[...] Link to story [...]
GregKennesaw
November 14th, 2012
9:18 am
I do blame Turner
papadawg
November 14th, 2012
9:23 am
I’m not just blaming Turner. I’m blaming the whole Danged offense for not be able to push for ONE YARD on FOUR TRIES
Say It Aint So
November 14th, 2012
9:26 am
Anybody ever thought about going over the top for a short yardage 1st down? Do we not have a back that can jump over the pile? And please not Tippy Toe. Whats shocking was there was a false start penality and the play would have been a toss to Turner, I actually fell out of my chair. Thank God the play was stopped.
jackie
November 14th, 2012
9:33 am
EVERY ONE HAS EXCUSES. THE :O: LINE, NOT US. THE RUNNING BACK, NOT ME. PLAY CALLING, DONT LOOK HERE. COACHES, NOT US. PLAYERS, NO CREDIT TO N.O. I HAVE THE ANSWER: IT IS THE BALLS FAULT: NO AIR.
Steelers | Ben Roethlisberger dealing with lots of pain | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
9:38 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Marone
November 14th, 2012
9:41 am
no big deal—the ATL will finish 14-2 and beat SF for the nfc title—book it. These falcons are for real!
JoeFann
November 14th, 2012
9:42 am
My two cents. He’s right, it’s never just one thing. However, I’d look at the 50 percent we failed on and look at the formations for commonalities. With 2 TEs and a FB, you bunch the entire defense so that your front seven are blocking eight or nine–not good odds. That’s why Mike Johnson was so wide open, the defense was stacked to the middle and no one played him. If you want to run for one yard inside, spread the field with four wide and take wider splits. Make the defense cover outside slants so the OLBs have to lean outside instead of inside. Give the ball to ‘Quizz to hit a crease instead of Turner, who needs a hole. Vary the calls, run-pass, from the same formation. Keep ‘em guessing. OK, so that’s three cents worth. My bad.
Adam
November 14th, 2012
9:47 am
What I can’t understand from watching the Falcons games is, when presented with the opportunity to take the lead late in the game and potentially win the game, the offense coordinator calls running plays between the tackles and pass plays from the 1-yard line. It is clear that if running plays would have been called to run toward the outside corning of the end zones, there is a very high probability that falcons would still be undefeated. I blame this on play calling and nothing else. Just sayin’……
Ray
November 14th, 2012
9:49 am
I know I won’t forgive Turner, but I will say this.
Michael Turner has helped us get to being relevant before we’d get joked on for never having back-to-back winning seasons, and other things.
To his credit he was here when we were 11-5, 9-7,13-3, and even last year helped us out a ton, but with all that said it’s still time for him to go.
I noticed this earlier this season basically around game 4 I felted like Turner had lost a step or two maybe even three, and that even though Quizz Rodgers looked like he didn’t know what he was doing or where to go. He was going to be getting better, and sure enough these past couple of games he finally got a handle on being a RB in the NFL so as this season keeps going it feels like M.Turner days are numbered because Quizz is only going to get better.
So to sum that all up glad for M.Turner service here, but right now either you put him on the bench at 2nd or 3rd string, or cut him loose like Ray Edwards.
james
November 14th, 2012
9:52 am
true we really miss big Harvey
Wednesday morning one-liners | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
9:53 am
[...] Falcons offense coordinator Dirk Koetter suggested that a lot of RB Michael Turner’s struggling this season has been because the offensive line isn’t opening holes for him. [...]
observer
November 14th, 2012
9:58 am
The Falcons run up the middle in short yardage because they don’t have a back with the speed to go outside. All of their RB’s are slow.
loel
November 14th, 2012
10:08 am
In these days of large screens HD television, slow replay and even slower replay, we fans can see whats wrong over and over. For those who say Turner had no chance, then why call the play anyway. When the falcons get in that “I” formation with Turner in it you can see the defense already leaning forward knowing what’s coming… So why call the stupid play in the first place. I had rather see Antione Smith or Jaquizz lose a yard than Turner,,,, at least we have some hope.
DC Dirty Bird
November 14th, 2012
10:13 am
JoeFann has an excellent point. We don’t have to necessarily get into a pass formation, but we do need to spread the field more. Its time to line up and call plays based on personnel not philosophy. Blalock is having an off year, Baker is a better pass blocker than run blocker (chew on that for a sec), Clabo has regressed, Konz is a rookie, and fullback play is nominal at best.
Run from 21 personnel packages, play Snelling, play Quizz.
ricocarty21
November 14th, 2012
10:15 am
Pass and run blocking needs improvement big time. It seems that MT is going down to easy on tackles. Even small db’s are bringing him down in the backfield. That was something you never witnessed in his first 2 years in Atlanta. It also seems in the last 2 games the D has lost some intensity and focus. Playing too loose and blowing pass assignments.We have have problems if we can not make 3rd and one going forward.
After living through Randy Johnson, Bob Berry, Junior Coffee,Etc. I was hoping to finally see an undefeated season. Well, I hope I live long enough to see a chance again. Its a rarity in the NFL. It takes commitment,luck and tremendous focus to accomplish this feat and that is why you go in the record books when you do it.
I hope the Falcs can find their selves and implement corrective action.
Steelers | Ben Roethlisberger officially ruled out | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
10:23 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Cowboys | Dez Bryant coming around | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
10:24 am
[...] Link to story [...]
old timer
November 14th, 2012
10:34 am
I say we give Quizz more touches and maybe we”ll get “lucky” more often then.
The Man
November 14th, 2012
10:35 am
Stats don’t lie. MT’s production is going down, his age, weight and salary are going up. Other backs are running behind the same line, different results. What am I missing?
Raiders | HC says no wholesale changes coming | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
10:38 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Steelers | Ribs bothering Ben Roethlisberger | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
10:39 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Mike is Back
November 14th, 2012
10:42 am
DLed, I like what Koetter brings to the BIRDS, I know he will get this fixed…here’s novel idea…why not go with some type of formation with Turner and Rogers on those plays…then since you know guys are going to be flying in from the end to catch Turner before he gets his momentum going…fake it to Turner, and flip it to Rogers…after a couple of fake flips to Rogers…the defense will have to make an adjustment…at the very lease…it could give Turner a little more to hit the hole.
RISE UP TURNER…LET’S GO…LET’S GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mike is Back
November 14th, 2012
10:46 am
Dang, I beat that up…so much for playing Wed morning OC.lol
RISE UP BIRDS…LET’S GO…LET’S GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
shesoleo
November 14th, 2012
10:47 am
I know some of the blame should fall on the Oline but,what I don’t understand is why? if you look at other teams running backs they don’t always have the holes to run thru but they make the holes and get positive yardage. The bottom half of MT body is made like a Mack truck and you mean to tell me he can’t push/run over a Pinto????? C’Mon Man!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bad Bird
November 14th, 2012
10:48 am
Horse Sh… first of all he is slow, lose some weight. For go ahead score on 2 and 1 in the 4th he walks to the hole and trips. This is all on MT with some responsibility on behalf of the O line.
Sean
November 14th, 2012
10:49 am
Start giving Quizz more touches and see how productful he is, then we can find out if Turner is to blame. The running game has nothing to lose at this point….switch it up and get it going. It’s really not a hard decision at all. Try it out for a game or 2 and see what happens…
Broncos | Demaryius Thomas making big plays | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
10:53 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Dennis
November 14th, 2012
10:56 am
Buddy Landel
November 14th, 2012
6:49 am
Bullsh!+ alert!!!
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Bite me. You taking over for Jeanne Dixon?
monty
November 14th, 2012
11:10 am
You can get away with being unbalanced until you get to the playoffs and are facing the better defenses who are tuning their game up a notch. THen you had better be able to pick up some short yardage when you need it via the run. 3rd and 1 barring everyone up on the line you ought to be able to convert 7 out of 10. (Have we stopped anyone 3rd and 1 all year?) If they bring everyone up then Roddy or Julio have to make a play.
JBSenoia
November 14th, 2012
11:18 am
It makes no difference who we put in the backfield boys WE DON”T HAVE A RUNNING BACK!!!!! The games turner had that were good you could have driven a truck thru those holes, anyone can run thru those but when it counts it takes turner and those thighs 30 seconds to get going and by then the whole DL is on him. Edwards isn’t the only person that needed to be let go of but time is on our side and i have all the faith in Blank and we willget to the point that this team will be coplete in all phases, But it won’t be this year 2ND Round of playoffs……..GONE
Redskins | Jammal Brown wants to play | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
11:23 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Bills | C.J. Spiller will likely have many carries | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
11:24 am
[...] Link to story [...]
Raiders | Michael Huff expected to play | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
11:38 am
[...] Link to story [...]
QuizzRocks
November 14th, 2012
11:44 am
Quizz running the ball is not “luck of the draw” its because he is fast as hell and knows how to MOVE, and you should not dismiss that talent as LUCK. If he’s the only one in there doing any running you can’t say its luck, thats called SKILL. So you needed another 18 yard run, then why didn’t you give him the ball you misguided old mule?
JSS
November 14th, 2012
11:46 am
Hilarious to the ninth power!!! The poor investors are complaining about their return on the Wily E. Coyote schemes can mask any deficiency attitude! Enjoy!!!
Hawk
November 14th, 2012
11:46 am
should we take a chance on Maybin.
Marcus
November 14th, 2012
11:47 am
I was hankering for us to snag RB Doug Martin in this years’ draft. I know TB grabbed him way before our 2nd round selection came around, but man ….
next year, depending on FA (Br. Grimes and what we do with Abe), and assuming we will be drafting late in the round (due to a really good 2012 reg. season record), we might have to look at unheralded guys in 2nd or 3rd round, like Stanford’s Stepfan Taylor, Michigan States Le’veon Bell. Some other guys have potential (I really like Oregon’s Kenjon Barner and Clemson’s Andre Ellington) but may be too slight of build to be an every down NFL RB. ND’s Cierre Wood could be a possibility, too.
JSS
November 14th, 2012
11:48 am
To the A. Smith is a cure all blogger, go look up how many weeks he was on the DL or inactive list… Enjoy!!!
Bills | C.J. Spiller adds big-play element | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
11:53 am
[...] Link to story [...]
alex
November 14th, 2012
12:02 pm
for excitement matter we have to deal with some weaknesses. turner and run definitely weakness. if not that, close the season and give super ball to falcons already. on serious note hope they fix, otherwise could be again one and out.
Paul
November 14th, 2012
12:05 pm
Run the ball more? If you had McCoy, I would run the ball more. With the Falcons tandem? PASS THE BALL. Jeez, why does all Georgia football look the same. This is the first year the Falcons are actually playing modern football, and being successful. And now people want to revert to the non-working old-man “hard nosed” football? Give me a break, that just doesn’t work unless you are da bears or have a great defense.
cdog
November 14th, 2012
12:06 pm
michael turner is to blame. for some reason he thinks he”s barry sanders or o.j. simpson.if he sticks it up in the hole hard everytime instead of dancing, he”s should average 4 to 5 yards a pop.he”s not a speedy guy like sanders or simpson.he tries to dance or run sideways too much.at 265lbs you should be a truck.he wants to be a finese back which he is not
Ordinary Fan
November 14th, 2012
12:08 pm
It’s interesting that everybody on the team wants to tell us what the problem is NOT. “It’s not just the O-Line.” “It’s not just the running back.” “It’s not any one thing, it’s a lot of things.” Please. I am just an ordinary fan, but I am not interested in what it’s NOT. This is football, not rocket science. Tell me in simple, declarative sentences what the problem IS, and how you plan to correct it. Coach, if that’s too complicated for you, then maybe we’ve found the underlying problem.
David
November 14th, 2012
12:14 pm
Enough of the excuses – We need a runner that will bust it up in the line – if a hole is here they can run at will – if a hole is not there they can still move the pile and gain yardage – I cannot stand to see Michael “dance” up to the line again. . . .
Bills | C.J. Spiller ready for opportunity | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
12:23 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Mike Franklin
November 14th, 2012
12:34 pm
There are times when running for one single yard up the middle works… and times when it doesn’t. This isn’t the first time this short yardage bug has bitten us with these very S.aints. When this happens, we need to grow some stones and think outside the pro-plan box… like with toss-sweeps and end-bootlegs and option formations to give the D something NEW to look at.
Redskins | Jammal Brown wants to play
November 14th, 2012
12:45 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Bills | C.J. Spiller will likely have many carries
November 14th, 2012
12:45 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Ravens | Jacoby Jones earns honor
November 14th, 2012
12:46 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Steelers | Is Byron Leftwich a good fit?
November 14th, 2012
12:46 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Steelers | Injured rib greater concern for Ben Roethlisberger
November 14th, 2012
12:47 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Bengals | Andy Dalton earns honor
November 14th, 2012
12:47 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Packers | Aaron Rodgers successful against Detroit
November 14th, 2012
12:47 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Buccaneers | Joe Holland signed to practice squad
November 14th, 2012
12:48 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Falconeer
November 14th, 2012
12:50 pm
On the 3rd and shorts the Falcons seem to be stuck on Turner up the middle. The defense and the fans know it’s coming. With the defense plugging up the middle there has to be a opening someplace. An occasional change might work. Turner up the middle sure is not working.
ATL/UGA #1 fan
November 14th, 2012
1:05 pm
Oh my goodness Coach…after reading your “excuses” for Turner …I am convenced you have NO Idea how to correct the short yard situation… DOnt Blame Turner…LOL! Ya know…Sunday watching your play calling on the one yard play at the goal…you are the living in a fantasy if you think you shouldnt be playing rogers and Snelling more..heck, even Cox would pound up in there harder than ole “Tulip” #33…Hey…Turner the Tulip!
Bengals | Andy Dalton earns honor | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
1:08 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
ATL/UGA #1 fan
November 14th, 2012
1:08 pm
hmmm lets give Turner some nick names…Tiny Turner? Tulip Turner?, Turner the Tulip?,
Michael “Burnt” turner, just cant believe ole Dirk cant see the lack of power with ole Tulip!
Tippy Toes Tuner!
Tuggle58
November 14th, 2012
1:09 pm
What I see is we are trying to run from that “jumbo” package, and it doesn’t work! Let’s spread the defense out with 3-4 wide receivers, then run out of that formation. Our line is not a bunch of road graders. They are athletic, so play to their strengths, not their weakness.
ATL/UGA #1 fan
November 14th, 2012
1:11 pm
ya know Dirt koeter….please do go the goal line like it is 3rd and 10 we have a far more better change to score, if ya aint gonna see tulip aint getting it done..not just there on the goal, but hardly anywhere this yr…Seriously, Turner, I am on your side, but, you aint showing me nothing on the field bro! Come on Man!????????????????????????
Packers | Aaron Rodgers successful against Detroit | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
1:23 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
Buccaneers | Markus White promoted | Sport Snapback Hats Sport Snapback Hats
November 14th, 2012
1:24 pm
[...] Link to story [...]
pb
November 14th, 2012
2:01 pm
Coach Dirk Koetter answers were so bad, he should have said nothing. Appears he has no idea how to correct the running game problem. Yes, I know they are still 8-1, but a problem like this, lack of short running game, will haunt them through rest of season, and playoffs. Better figure it out !
Old Violin
November 14th, 2012
2:06 pm
The bottom line ! Turner does not finish up his runs ! Rogers does and Snelling does ! You can’t make a silk purse out of a sows ear…..Michael Turner is a Sows Ear (used to be a silk purse] and if he stays in the line up, then our bacon is as good as cooked already ! How many times does it take the run and drop running of MT to convince Dimwitreoff and Welcome back Koetter that a change is needed ? Oh wel ! What do I know….I’m just an Old Violin……
Sean
November 14th, 2012
2:08 pm
MmmmM….baacoooon
But yea, nicknames for Turner…I kinda like “Twinkle Toes Turner.”
FOOTBALL RUNNERS » Atlanta Falcons: Koetter on struggling run game: ‘Mike Turner . . . had no chance’
November 14th, 2012
2:10 pm
[...] one yard. Maybe we ought to just pretend its third and 10 and we might be better off.”" Click here for full article Share on Facebook [...]
Coach
November 14th, 2012
2:49 pm
Turner has been a disappointment for a couple of years now with only glimpses of success. Most of the time he’s slow, has no lateral moves, and just runs at the nearest defender as if that’s all he needs to do. He lines up way in the backfield and doesn’t hit the line with any zip at all and most of the time goes no where. It’s a vague memory now but at one time he was tough to bring down. Now? Ha. If you’re out of position seems he’ll run at you as if he’s looking for an excuse to fall. He’s no longer good enough to be the feature back of an outstanding NFL team such as the Falcons. He’s not contributing and anyone who watches the games can see this as I’m sure the coaches do. Stop making excuses for him and sit him on the bench. Anyone else on the roster with a RB next to their name can perform better. Our passing game is fantastic but we can’t pass all the time and when we get close to the goal line and the field compresses then we have to be able to run the ball.
Greg M
November 14th, 2012
2:52 pm
I like Dirk. I have 3 suggestions when we are on goal line again:
1. Move Turner back from the QB a little. Give him time to get his speed up. His percentage is better on edge than up middle.
2. Switch it up…have Turner as the Fullback and Snelling as the RB on these goal line situation.
3. Run Naked bootleg, with the option of throwing from bootleg…also tire Ds with hurry offense.
Other than that, excellent job Dirk.
BigGTMike
November 14th, 2012
3:24 pm
CPJ recommends the QB follow.
WhoDat4Eva
November 14th, 2012
3:28 pm
What does a Falcon fan do when they win the Super Bowl?
He shuts off his Xbox and goes to bed.
biscuteater
November 14th, 2012
4:56 pm
I don’t think Kotter has a clue about smash mouth offense..just like Nolan has no clue about smash mouth defense,,would someone hurry back from the land of oz with those magic wands!
Smitty..you looked wise beyond your years when you cussed out Samuel & the other guy on the sideline after the “celebration”..Samuel just laughed in your face..he thought it was funny as hell!
Why pay big bucks to Kotter & Nolan?? Smitty runs the show anyway..Just let him do it all by himself!
David
November 14th, 2012
5:44 pm
No team every wants to lose a game but in my opinion this loss was the best thing that could happen to us. Having that 16-0 pressure on us going into the most important part of the season would be poison and now that pressure has been lifted. We could have won the N.O. game without a doubt and knowing that is good enough for me. Go Falcons!!!
Athens Tider
November 14th, 2012
7:43 pm
Julio over the top. He was a champion high jumper and long jumper. Don’t understand why teams don’t do this as much anymore.
shesoleo
November 14th, 2012
8:14 pm
Tell me….. how are they going to fix the problem? when they don’t feel they have one Michael Turner yeh!!!!!!!!!!!! that would be you.
Atlanta Falcons: Ghosts of past short-yardage failures still haunt | Atlanta Falcons
November 15th, 2012
9:49 am
[...] Koetter said Turner “had no chance” on most of his runs because there were defenders running free at the point of attack. He said the Falcons have to run the ball more efficiency regardless of which running back is carrying the ball. [...]
mark
November 15th, 2012
1:32 pm
I knew they would run up the middle and then try to pass when they shouldn’t have. I quit watching the falcons when they used to run up the middle 6 times in a row in the old days. The play calling has been much better the past few years. We CANT run up the middle, not with Turner!!!! Have you ever heard of running outside!!! Come on MAN!!! I blame that loss on the offensive coordinator soley.
hiramsaint
November 15th, 2012
3:04 pm
” no chance” against the worst run D in the league ? pathetic !
PlanB
November 15th, 2012
7:54 pm
Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results is not smart. I’m still good with DK’s abilities but on this running problem we need a change. We’re pretty much stuck with our OL so isn’t it time to try different running backs. If Snelling, Quizz and Smith only average 1 or 2 y/c then we haven’t lost a thing. If you have a problem, change things. If it’s the OL we will a least be able to analyze the problem and possibly correct it in next years draft or FA. At least with the other 3 RB’s we have more versatility. I think these coaches get in the highest salary has to start syndrome.