Will Lofton Replicate Terrific Rookie Season? Veteran WRs Added
Successful Sophomore Campaign?
A Rookie Year Encore? (Al Messerschmidt)
((((Updates))))
Training camp, Friday Night Lights @ Brookwood, & the Roam the Dome updates will be posted in the comments section as they become available throughout the weekend.
Standout at Oklahoma
Taking Matt Ryan 3rd overall and moving up to snag Sam Baker at #21 in his first draft as General Manager of the Falcons is what most draft experts and NFL observers will remember. But the steal of the draft that Dimitroff quietly executed drew rave reviews by taking Curtis Lofton in the second round. If Matty Ice can be considered the building block of the offense for years to come, Lofton is surely Dimitroff’s foundational stamp for the defense in his revamping effort. Even though Lofton came into the league as a junior, he left quite a legacy at the University of Oklahoma (tackles (94 solo, 63 assists), 10.5 TFL, one sack, four forced fumbles, and three interceptions. He also scored two defensive touchdowns (one on an interception return and one on a fumble return). Playing many different positions at Oklahoma, many weren’t sure where he would fit in Coach Van Gorder and Smith’s defense. Was he more suited for an Outside Linebacker with his speed or Middle Linebacker with his sure tackling skills? Many wondered if Lofton could come in and contribute immediately due to his age and relative lack of experience, much less earn a starting position.
Great Rookie Campaign
A Defensive Leader? (Ann Heisenfelt/AP)
Much like many other of Dimitroff’s first draft class, Lofton came in ready to compete intent on winning a starting position and not simply settling on earning playing time. He showed why he was so highly touted coming out in the draft. Lofton started in 15 out of 16 regular season games, collaring 94 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble stepping right in to have be a solid-to-great player in his first season at Middle Linebacker, a position filled with a ton of reads, schemes, and scenarios. Credit goes to Coach Van Gorder for putting Lofton in the right positions where he could do what he does best, run and hit. #50 used his speed and hard-hitting ability to have an outstanding year at Middle Linebacker against the run. He probably benefited from having Big Grady and his 350+ lb frame keep him free of centers, guards, and fullbacks; allowing him to read, react, and hit. Besides being a great hitter, a sideline-to-sideline linebacker, and overall mature rookie, Lofton showed excellent character and a good work ethic.
Injury Concerns? (Al Messerschmidt)
If Lofton had such a magnificent year as a rookie at middle linebacker for the Falcons, why wasn’t he even mentioned for Defensive Rookie of the Year? There in lies the area of improvement that Lofton is striving towards. The MLB became considered a two-down back, staying in and working run-heavy downs that didn’t require a lot of pass coverage. In all obvious passing downs, he was taken out because he evidently was a liability in pass coverage. A cornerstone linebacker and player that a team wants to build their defense around can’t only stay in the game for 2 downs out of four and certainly can’t come out on the most important down of the series. From an outsider’s perspective, it appears that Lofton understands the importance of being an every down linebacker. He has used his superb work ethic to become leaner in the off-season and learn drops in pass coverage. The departures of Keith Brooking and Lawyer Milloy on defense created a chasm of veteran leadership and it looks like Lofton, only in his second year, is ready to step in and up to be that foundational block that Dimitroff had in mind when he drafted him.
Veteran Wide Receivers Added
Any Gas Left in the Tank? (Charles Rex Arbogast/AP)
With the season ending injury of Harry Douglas and the continued holdout of Roddy White, the Falcons moved to shore up their wide receiving corps that went from an enormous strength to a potential weakness in a split second. Dimitroff appears to be ready to play hardball with Roddy White and his agent as they continue their holdout. White and his agent seem to be losing in the court of public opinion in Falcons fans eyes with every passing day. The Falcons added Robert Ferguson and Marty Booker to the roster shoring up some much needed veteran leadership with the young receivers already in camp. Ferguson and Booker were obviously free agents for a reason, but in the right system they may can rediscover some of the magic they had earlier in their careers.
Not Ideal, But Make it Work
Any Help?
Assuming that White continues his holdout, Ferguson and Booker won’t have to be the #1 or #2 receivers with Michael Jenkins and Brian Finneran seemingly taking those two spots. In fact, they may simply be asked to fill the #4 wide receiver spot, where Coach Smith can develop one of the younger receivers for the slot or scan the waiver wires once cuts begin across the league. This would put the receiving corps back where it was designed to be, having veterans at the key two starting positions (Jenkins, Finneran), a younger player in the slot, a more veteran receiver in the 4th spot (Ferguson, Booker), and have one of the guys in camp fight for the 5th and 6th spot (Weems, Williams, Bergeron, Mougey, Kelly). Let’s not mince words and say this is desirable or close to what we had hoped for, but great NFL teams roll with the punches and refuse to make excuses about injuries or selfish players and find a way to win. A look at the new veteran receiver additions.
Robert Ferguson
Height – 6′1, Weight – 219, Age – 29
Career Stats: 151 Recs, 1,993 Yds, 13 TDs
Marty Booker
Height – 6′0, Weight – 205, Age – 33
Career Stats: 523 Recs, 6,522 Yds, 36 TDs
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Daily Tailgate Recipe
A little on the fancy side, but really good stuff from Guy Fieri. Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Barbecue Sauce, courtesy of Guy Fieri and FoodNetwork.com
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189 comments Add your comment
DP in NC
August 7th, 2009
1:14 pm
First….this feels great!
Falcon Devil
August 7th, 2009
1:15 pm
White will be lined up and starting the first game so no worries. This holdout will end before the season starts no doubt.
DP in NC
August 7th, 2009
1:19 pm
Second…this is AWESOME!
jason
August 7th, 2009
1:21 pm
The addition of Booker gives ATL the vertical WR to stretch the field. Is he and will he be as good as RW? Of course not, but with the WR position as a whole; ATL will not lose as much production. It will just be spread out more. People tend to forget about the demension that Gonzo brings. Gonzo was going to take some receptions away from RW anyway. It also looks as if TB will make the team. Combine Brown with Norwood and you have alot of recieving talent coming out of the backfield. I could see a formation where either Brown or Norwood could line up in the slot, ala Warrick Dunn (For you SW). The best case scenario is to get RW’s butt into camp, but if we are opining on if RW does not show, then I think we will be okay.
jason
August 7th, 2009
1:24 pm
Lofton is an every down LB. it is not uncommon for rookie players to come in and play in certain situations as Lofton did last year. You play to the player’s strengths, and allow the player to work on weaknesses during practice. If I am not mistaken, Lofton had earned more all round plays as the season wore on. He was on the field for that fourth down pass to the Cardnal TE that ended our season.
Falcon Devil
August 7th, 2009
1:31 pm
I wanna see my boy from ASU Robert James (The BEAST) getting some snaps!!!
Falcon Devil
August 7th, 2009
1:35 pm
People are over-reacting about this RW camp holdout… it sucks he isn’t there but comon it’s not like he needs to learn the offense. His effort is futile since he has no leverage and won’t sit out all year. Our three WR set wont be affected by these new signings unless Finneran gets beat out for the slot postion by Booker.
jason
August 7th, 2009
1:38 pm
BIRDMAN, From Whigham, hub. I have some family that lives there. Nice little town. The Police suck, though. Get a speeding ticket for running 36 in a 35. Guess that’s how a small town makes a living. The Round up is a pretty cool festival to see. You knew to the Cage? Don’t take the “Hate Bait” from the likes of Professor. Don’t know him, must be new also. If he was a vet, he would give Coach Ken the respect he deserves when in disagreement with him. Must be a boring life to want to edit every post he disagrees with.
BIRDMAN, What year did you graduate? You said that you went to Whigham High. That’s a few years ago, like around 20. My cousins started at Cairo around 88/89.
jason
August 7th, 2009
1:39 pm
Falcon Devil, My worries concerning RW’s hold out is conditioning. I don’t want him to come in and have a Jamaal Anderson, and blow a knee or something. That is a very popular thing to occur when players hold out. Another example would be Natron Means of SD.
BIRDMAN
August 7th, 2009
2:06 pm
Class of 79 been here since 91 We use to give you gys heck in b ball .And you gys did the same in Cairo.Good people there.Good ethics and background.Cairo always had a great football team.I think they may have won state last year?But no doupt very good stock! ! We never had football team ,not big enough .But now it’s all Cairo so I guess they have good men from both parts of Grady Co.Sorry bout the words with the profiss , just the way I was reard to not let folks take advantege of ya.But I do apolagize My spellin ant the best so just bear with me on that.Not to metion my keyboards douwn and I’m doin the on screen thing.I love hereing what ya’ll all have to say thow it helps educate me more on the sport and l am a long time fan
mitch
August 7th, 2009
2:25 pm
DP in NC–nice going. I know how it feels.
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
2:26 pm
BIRDMAN,
Where I come from people were judged by their character and heart. Your’s appear to be in good order. Welcome to The Cage.
BIRDMAN
August 7th, 2009
2:45 pm
Thanks Unca’Bob good to find a place to talk about the team .Yea Jason I know what ya mean about the law down there.I guess they just don’t have near the crimes so they pick on drivers.Anyway hope Loftin helps out .and who knows maybe the layout king will show up soon.Good point about Anderson Jason.Could happen……
CBrass
August 7th, 2009
2:58 pm
Hey there’s a great chance that I will be at the Roam the Dome event tomorrow. Will anyone else be there?
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
3:04 pm
D3,
Yet another timely subject. C Lofton impresses me with his attitude and work ethic. He knows what he wants to gain and goes hard after it. Hopefully, he will remain a Falcon for many productive years.
The addition of the new recievers will be helpful but we all know it will not get us back to where we were. The loss of H Douglas just crushed me. What a tremendous up side this young man has. T Dimitroff was truely moved by HD’s loss. He will not think with his heart, but I’m not sure R White will be a Falcon much longer. White is the last of the T-shirt flashers and may have played his last trump card.
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
3:14 pm
mitch and DP I hope it make yall’s day to be First. It is the dumbest thing I can think of that anyone would care about acheiving in life.
Now, I think Lofton will be a very strong payers for many years for the Falcons, ala Jessie Tuggle!
And if I were Roddy I wouldn’t leave Matt Ryan alone with his new toy Gonzo let alone Jenks or he will be forgtten. Good QB’s find whomever is open.
Dawson Devitt (D3)
August 7th, 2009
3:15 pm
Great Friday (thank the lord) Bird Cagers! Hope everyone’s doing well as we roll into the weekend. Got two fan friendly events this weekend going on with our beloved Falcons: Friday Night Lights @ Brookwood tonight and the Roam the Dome event at the Georgia Dome starting @ 10:30 with the scrimmage starting around 12:30. Should be a ton of fun. Not going to be able to make it tonight, but plan on taking the House CEO and my little wide receiver tomorrow.
DP in NC – Congrats!
Falcon Devil – I’m not so sure of that anymore. He likely will be starting against the ‘Fins in Sepetember, but he sure is fostering some ill will with many fans. Maybe he doesn’t care.
jason – Great points as always my man. I like both signings. Of course they were free agents for a reason and are stop-gaps, but they don’t have to be a number 1 or 2 receiver. Brown and Norwood are an excellent option in the slot or two back sets out of the backfield. At some point, Dimitroff needs to pull the plug on White’s extension and use the money to re-up Norwood, Clabo, and Dahl.
Falcon Devil(2) – Good point. I haven’t heard anything about Robert James or Spencer Adkins.
BIRDMAN – Welcome to The Bird Cage! Glad to have you. Don’t worry about spelling; try your best, but this is not Language Arts class.
CBrass – I think I’ll make it tomorrow to Roam the Dome. Let you know for sure in a bit.
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
3:18 pm
Sarah B,
I knew it was coming I just didn’t know when.
jason
August 7th, 2009
3:25 pm
Bird Man, I was class of ‘92 at CHS. My cousin Sean and his sister Michelle grew up in Whigham. Their parents still live there today. Whigham, Cairo, Calvary, it don’t matter. It’s all Grady County. It’s those Thomas County people (SW) we have to worry about. SW, I still remember Alphonso Ellis throwing 200 + on us at our Home Coming of all things. He was threatening Hersche’s rushing records until a RB known as Toomer (Worth Co.) came along.
D3, Booker is not a bad option. He put up some good numbers for CHI just a couple of years ago. Now, both those signings are not going to replace RW. The position as a whole, including TEs and RBs will though. You are right about RW being the last of the “Free M-” t-Shirts. I like RW and all his potential. but we move forward as a team, not as individuals. As a team is why we won like we won last year.
jason
August 7th, 2009
3:27 pm
D3 also, are you going to be dropping some infor while at Brookwood and the “Roam at the Dome”? I will take all the updated info I can get.
CBrass
August 7th, 2009
3:33 pm
I really do not have much knowledge of the game just yet to tell what Lofton will and will not be. However I will say that it’s his character and way that he carries himself that really impress me(he’s easy on the eyes too…LOL)! Someone brought up a good point earlier. If he was solely used for running downs why was he in on the 3 and 16 play in the Az. game? I never really thought about that one until now.
jason
August 7th, 2009
3:37 pm
CBrass, I made that comment. That was the maturation process of our new “Hammer” Lofton. As the season went along, he earned more responsibility. I don’t know how they will drag him off the field this year. He will basicly be our QB on defense. Calling the plays, stunts, allignments, and such. Nice to have all that in a second year player.
ATL1NETIME
August 7th, 2009
3:40 pm
First…..hello to all and I hope you are ready for another exciting year….At this point I think everyone should just calm down a bit. RW will be there when it counts and he is working out so he will be in good shape…..only thing I believe he is hurting is the timing issue between receiver and QB. Last year MR chose him as his number one and their timing together became something special……..this is the biggest blow to him not being in camp…….Upside to all this is it will open the gates to see who else will be able to prosper……I really believe if TB from the arena league can get on the field then he will be successful……stay tuned.
mitch
August 7th, 2009
3:42 pm
Sarah B.–”whoever is open,” not “whomever.” Actually, a better construction would be, “A good QB finds the open man.” Now, about your spelling…
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
3:43 pm
CBrass I really want to go to both events but tonight is not looking good and I have to work until 3 tomorrow
CBrass
August 7th, 2009
3:43 pm
jason,
I still wonder why was he in there on an obvious passing play for the AZ game?
CBrass
August 7th, 2009
3:46 pm
Sarah B,
Dang it!!! Well that’s cool we’ll just have to try to catch up during one of the games. What the heck are you doing working on a Saturday?!?!? LOL
BIRDMAN
August 7th, 2009
4:01 pm
last names Boyette My moms side Collins.Buntch of those down there.Yea I know how tough them surepmakers were in all sports.I like what you said about Anderson . I like old Finnain and Lofton looks good .We just gona have to see about White .I’m looking farword to him doing somehin thow.Getin to were I’m thinkin we will be alright without him Heck I’m even startin to not want him back even. Ya’ll think we can do well without him?
mitch
August 7th, 2009
4:01 pm
CBrass–Waffle House is open seven days a week.
jason
August 7th, 2009
4:02 pm
CBras, He was the best LB on the field. I think KB forgot where he was palying. KB probably thought he was playing MLB. That play, both KB and lofton seemed to be playing the same area in that zone.
Trainwreck
August 7th, 2009
4:02 pm
It’s not like we dont run the ball 65% of the time anyway (and I made that number up, so don’t go and research it to tell me how wrong I am) I’m just saying that even though I like Roddy a lot, we are still a run first team. That’s not going to change. Of course, Ryan will be given more opportunities, but that’s why we have veterans on the team like Jenkins, Finn, and Gonzalez. The two new signings are not going to be called upon to be saviors, and RW will more than likely come back eventually anyway. Now about Lofton, I really admired the way he played last year, and although I’m sure he’s going to take a few lumps in the passing game this year, I have no doubt that he will get better as the season wears on. He will not be a liability this year. I am excited about our overall depth of our LBs and the fact that we have hard hitters on D. I always watch teams like Baltimore and Pittsburg and wonder why noone except Lawyer Milloy ever tried to knock people out. Now, we have Peterson, Lofton, Robert James, Decoud (I really liked him last year), and Nichols, we should be on our share of ESPN highlights
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
4:13 pm
mitch good to know I’ll grab some breakfast on my way in. CBrass need the comp days. And a fellow employee who was scheduled has his daughters 1st soccer game tomorrow.
jason
August 7th, 2009
4:20 pm
BIRDMAN, There are some Collins on my Mom’s side of the family, I thimk. My Mom was a Bryant. Also kin to the Scullys.
cutter
August 7th, 2009
4:38 pm
UGA fans Tony Taylor cut again
BIRDMAN
August 7th, 2009
4:39 pm
Well if she had Collins blood chances are we may be 15th cousins Ha .Bryant sure sounds familure.think my mom metion that name before We lived out near Magnola chuch area goin toward Calvary and Addupulgus way and also Climax.Big name down there Collins ,lot of them also heard the name Bryant a lot .Harison ’s and the Roddenberry,s Awsome place to grow up I miss it.
Krebs
August 7th, 2009
5:01 pm
Any word on B. Finneran’s progress in camp so far? Showing any effects from previous knee injuries?
BIRDMAN
August 7th, 2009
5:22 pm
Heard Finns doin good Smith himself metiond him in one of his last interviews if Im not mistakin as one his no 3 wr Thats with the white holdout though I think..
Krebs
August 7th, 2009
5:36 pm
That’s good to hear Birdman. He is exactly the type of receiver that should do well in Smith’s system.
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
8:06 pm
Birdman & Krebs,
The last I saw, M Jenkins, B Finneran, and E Weems were running 1, 2, and 3. This is per Coach Smith. Our Falcons being a run first team, should do fine, regardless of our WR’s. Or the lack of.
count_schemula
August 7th, 2009
8:14 pm
Everyone want’s a breakout receiver, but we don’t NEED one. Turner and Norwood are awesome. Finn and Gonzo are going to be great hands to dump out to for first downs. Pro receivers could work just fine in this offense. If they No need for White’s antics. He’s under contract and not in camp. About all I need to know about Roddy “Hands of Stone for 3 years” “Free Mike Vick” White. I root for the Falcons, not Roddy White.
BIRDMAN
August 7th, 2009
8:57 pm
Was’nt sure about it Unca ‘ B I knew it was somethin like that I cought it on tv while tryin to talk to my teenage doughter so I did’nt here it all .Thanks and I still feal good about the team.Hay did ya’ll see the ajc Bulldogs ranked no 13.
cutter
August 7th, 2009
9:02 pm
Nice scrimmage off 37 def 34
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
9:02 pm
mitch with a Capitol B,
I have read many posts by you. The last two, to my way of thinking are unacceptable. I feel you have stepped over the line. You have shown a disrepect to my Sister Cagers that is not only warrented, but uncalled for. If, per chance I misread or misunderstood what you were saying, shame on me. If not, shame on you.
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
9:09 pm
Thanks Unca’ Bob!
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
9:17 pm
No he was out to be mean today just because of my ‘First’ post. But don’t worry my feeling are not easily hurt.. He would know that if he checked in more often.
The people that feel the need to post “First” are just sorry losers, IMO.
How’s it going Unca’ Bob
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
9:17 pm
Sarah B,
My pleasure. I’m not sure where he was coming from, I simply did not like it.
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
9:22 pm
Sarah B,
Things are going along reasonibly smooth. Much better than I deserve.
CBrass
August 7th, 2009
9:28 pm
Unca’ Bob,
Thanks. I was just simply ignoring him. Glad to see that you’re doing ok.
Sarah B,
How’s it going?
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
9:31 pm
JJ,
Do not ever count out Tiger! He is a talent we are blessed to have seen.
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
9:33 pm
CBrass,
Thank you.
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
9:36 pm
Hey CBrass I wish I could hook up tomorrow. But no. I’ll see you at the 1st pre-season game??? You have season tickets???
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
9:37 pm
I love Tiger!
big worm
August 7th, 2009
9:37 pm
i would like to see falcons get korean robinson
CBrass
August 7th, 2009
9:39 pm
Sarah B,
No I do not. I going to try and get some from a friend of mine. Whenever I’m able to make it I will be sure to let you know. On that note good night all. Have a good one.
God Bless
Sarah B
August 7th, 2009
9:53 pm
To bad CBrass, you don’t know what you are missing, better in person!
D.Ellis
August 7th, 2009
10:03 pm
Just a question but has Marvin Harrison fallen off the map so far that we sign Marty Booker instead??????? Or is it because he just doesn’t fit the offense or he
Unca' Bob
August 7th, 2009
10:14 pm
D.Ellis,
My thought is, Mr. Harrison has some legal issues, that to date have not been resolved
JJB
August 7th, 2009
10:32 pm
D.Ellis– Marvin Harrison has just had a second person ID him as the shooter in a Philly area shooting last year. Harrison owns a car wash in that area. It looks like the law is going to catch up with him or ensnare him whatever the case may be. teams are avoiding him like the plague
D.Ellis
August 7th, 2009
10:35 pm
Was at the morning practice today. Hard to gauge in shorts and shells but noticed a few things.
-Houston is small but physical. With Houston and Grimes we will struggle against tall WR teams….but any and all WR’s better be ready for physical matchups against us.
-LB corp looks solid. Big and quick in my opinion. Depth might be an issue if injuries take place.
-Shockley made some very nice throws today. Threaded a tough needle in scully in the red zone. If he knows the playbook should make a run at #
2
-Redman did not look good in my opinion.
-Fergurson the new WR looked every bit the vet….crisp routes…caught ball in stride…..needs more reps with 1rst or 2nd units.
-We need Roddy real bad…..IMO offense doesn’t look scary on the field without the deep threat. It just doesn’t…any 3 ways you put it. Maybe it was just the pass plays they ran…but everything was intermediate…..and Roddy brings the stretch that makes TG that much more dangerous in 8-12 range
-Of the younger WR the big fid from SanDiego St. looks tough…..needs time but has soft hands and runs nice. Didn’t see much in Kelly that stood out but then again he didn’t get much reps…but he reminds me “physically of MARVIN WILLIAMS”…..not a fluid runner.
-Decoud looks tough. Defense was talking and lloked for the most part to take the scully in my opinion.
-Loved the atmosphere had a great time
Ovie Muhellghi (SP) was a very nice guy for signing after practice…talked to th whole crowd and joked alot…seemed genuine….can see why He is well liked by the organizat
-Plan on going one more time before next Friday .First time CAGE Blogger and thanks for having me. I’m in the Georgia chair and Georgia Hat if anyone spots me out next week. GO FALCONS!
falcon21
August 7th, 2009
10:39 pm
Unca’Bob, do you think Ashley Leley, “don’t know if I spelled that right” would a good WR to take another look at? I’m not sure of his age but I don’t think he is with another team as of now.
falcon21
August 7th, 2009
10:49 pm
Thanks D. Ellis, good updates. I got to see the kid from San Diego St. and he was impressive the first day of camp. Maybe he will be a keeper.
jason
August 7th, 2009
10:56 pm
falcon21, That kid from SDSU is the one D3 has been talking up for the past month. D3 called that one. He’s like 6′5/6′6. Big target.
falcon21
August 7th, 2009
11:02 pm
Jason, Mougey is listed as 6-6 and looked really good the first day of camp. D3 knows what he is talking about.
D.Ellis
August 7th, 2009
11:14 pm
Also I thought one of the smaller WR’s Williams I think could be wrong looked nice, caught a few passes in scully and looked like he had soft hands. Mougey made a nice grab over the middle with a LB on his back. Bergeron also has nice hands. I wonder who they will find to replace HD in the “short quick pass scheme”. I guess someone you give the ball to on the swing pass or quick hitch for 1-2 yards…then makes the DB miss one on one to pick up 5 more YAC yards on 2nd down.
falcon21
August 7th, 2009
11:24 pm
D.Ellis, Bergeron coming from the arena football league seems perfect for that situation. What do you think Jason?
SeminoleWarrior
August 7th, 2009
11:28 pm
My Cage Family…It’s been one hell of a long day. But I had to peek in and see what was up. Going to power nap so that I can be at the Dome tomorrow for the scrimmage. Bring my niece and nephew up to Rome and have fun watching the scrimmage as well as getting a few autographs.
The CEO is doing a hell of a job with the topic subject matter. I see that Coach K Strick made an appearance earlier in the previous topic. Great insight as always. The RW situation will work itself out in time. TD will hold his course, team first and foremost. RW will come in and contribute in due time.
And Lofton is going to continue to improve as the MLB. My only concern is the state of the DT position ahead of him. But Lofton is a player. He will take care of his business.
SeminoleWarrior
August 7th, 2009
11:44 pm
Cage, we had Lelie here once and he did not really give his best effort. I think we are done with the hunt for WRs for now barring another set of injuries. The focus will shift to increasing continuity with the WRs we have on the roster now as we advance into the pre-season.
Nearly 13,000 showed up at Brookwood. That’s incredible. This is going to be one hell of a ride this season.
SeminoleWarrior
August 7th, 2009
11:50 pm
Semper Fi, UnCa Bob. You know I have your back my brother.
he young dude did seem to cross the line in my opinion as well.
As the CEO would say, if it is not civil and respectful, you can’t roll with the Cage family.
SeminoleWarrior
August 7th, 2009
11:56 pm
Man, looks like Grimes has no intention of going quietly away in the battle for the LCB spot. He had a very good scrimmage Friday night. Will watch him closely on Saturday.
falcon21
August 7th, 2009
11:57 pm
Thank you SW for answering my question. I know he did not do a lot while he was here and I don’t think he did much after he left. I was only wondering. Good to see you back in the Cage my friend.
jason
August 8th, 2009
12:01 am
falcon21, I posted a couple of days ago that I thought it would be Begeron. I like it even more now that we have signed Fergurson and Booker. If there is no RW ( I think he will be here). MJ moves to #1. Booker vs. Fergurson grabs #2 with Begeron in the slot. Finn retains his third down WR spot. That gives us 5 with RW it’s 6.
My question is, if Mougey continues to develope and keep getting better as he has shown; Who gets left off? The loser between Fergurson and Booker will be cut.
Dawson Devitt (D3)
August 8th, 2009
12:25 am
Great LATE Friday Evening My Fellow Cagers! Good to see the action, passion, and enthusiasm for our Falcons. Too late to respond to all the Cagers comments, but will hit a few.
D.Ellis – Welcome Sir to the Bird Cage! Thank you so very much for that awesome update from camp. You must be a football coach with that analysis. Please bring your knowledge in the Bird Cage more on a daily basis, because we all appreciate it.
Friday Night Lights @ Brookwood Update (from CBSsports.com by Jason Butt) –
The Falcons defense has its chances on the final drive and dropped an interception. Offense wins 37-34.
Backup QB battle: Falcons QB Chris Redman throws an interception to LB Tony Gilbert. Defense 30, offense 20.
Falcons S Jamaal Fudge laid a bone-crushing hit on RB Jason Snelling .
Falcons RB Jerious Norwood had no room inside so he bounced the play outside ans scampered for a touchdown. Defense 14, offense 11.
The Falcons’ offense is on the board with two consecutive first downs. Defense 13-2
Falcons TE Justin Peelle fumbled and CB Brent Grimes recovered and returned it for a touchdown. Defense 13-0.
The Falcons defense is up 4-0 after a three-and-out.
The Falcons defense stopped the offense on the first possession. The defense is up 1-0.
Deceptive speed: On the first play from scrimmage Falcons QB Matt Ryan scrambled for a first down.
These Falcons players are not playing in the scrimmage: LB Curtis Lofton (hamstring), DT Trey Lewis (undisclosed).
The Falcons’ scrimmage will pit offense vs. defense. Here are the ways the defense can score: Interceptions are 3 points, fumble recoveries are 3 points, three-and-outs are 2 points, sacks are 1 point each, tackles for loss are 1 point each and stopping a drive without any points scored is 1 point.
The Falcons have begun stretching for their intrasquad scrimmage at Brookwood High School.
The Falcons’ scrimmage will be the first time the team tackles to the ground in training camp.
Falcons coach Mike Smith said LB Curtis Lofton (hamstring) is close to practicing.
Backup QB battle: QB D.J. Shockley threaded the needle to WR Eric Weems for a touchdown in double coverage.
The Falcons are closing practice working on red zone situations.
CB Chevis Jackson just broke up a pass by QB Matt Ryan . Jackson is having his best practice in training camp.
Falcons QB Chris Redman threw another interception as he tried to loft it over the first row of defenders. CB Chevis Jackson picked the pass off.
Falcons WR Michael Jenkins has impressed today with a couple of nice catches, highlighted by a pass he snagged thrown behind him by QB Matt Ryan .
falcon21
August 8th, 2009
12:27 am
Jason, I think Fergurson will beat out Booker, Mougey may be on the practice squad if he does not beat out Finn. I know you guys don’t like to hear this but HD going down may have saved Finnerans job. Don’t get get me wrong, I like the heck out of Finn.
jason
August 8th, 2009
12:35 am
Dawson Devitt (D3), Question regarding the WRs. Do you think it is Fergurson vs. Booker with loser getting cut? Your man Mougey is coming on. Think he has moved ahead of Kelly on the depth chart. I think he is closing some serious ground on Weems and Bergeron. How many WRs do you see us keeping? I am including RW. I see 6 with RW, MJ, Bergeron, Finn, Mougey, and the winner between Fergurson/ Booker. What’s your opinion?
jason
August 8th, 2009
12:39 am
falcon21, I like Finn alot too. I was thinking he would be in the last of the cuts, retire, and take a FO job. Saying that everything is perfect at the WR, It would have been RW, MJ, HD, Bergeron, Weems. We would have only taken 5. With RW holding out and HD injured, we will carry 6. We are basicly without 2 starters at WR, since we run the 3 WR set so much.
jason
August 8th, 2009
12:41 am
falcon21, do you really think Fergurson will beat out Booker? I like Booker because of his ability to stretch the field. Fergurson seems like more of a possession WR, and we already have a few of those. Not saying that I don’t like Fergurson or his abilities; just looking at what ATL needs at the position, and giving an opinion.
Jimbo
August 8th, 2009
7:26 am
I wasn’t able to make the Brookwood scrimmage but I got a good flavor for the event from reading Torgo’s post linked below. It’s a good read. I’m concerned that he wasn’t very impressed with our D-line because I came away with the same impressions after attending a couple of TC sessions.
http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/10525021/16503604
CBrass
August 8th, 2009
8:02 am
Hey guys just wanted to check in. I’m up and ready to go to the Roam the Dome event today. I’m stocked about the scrimmage!!! I will not be able to give a deep analyze like D. Ellis did but I’ll do my best.
SW,
I see that you’re coming. I’ll be wearing black khakies, a grey georgia t-shirt, and a black and polo hat. Hope to run into you and any one else who may be there.
BIRDMAN
August 8th, 2009
9:53 am
I hope Shockly earns the no 2 spot . I like this Man good leadership in him and I think he’s just a better QB than Redman.Is Loftons hammy going to be a big issue ? hope not . Guess we will propably get to see Shock! play next saturday night .That would be cool to see two former UGA QB’s go head to head .But who knows if Staford will even be played ? Anyway good mornin to all you cagers.
Jimbo
August 8th, 2009
9:56 am
Unca’Bob – You that I’m expecting a report on the D-Line if you made it to Friday night lights. I think that group is the key to our defense, they stir the drink and will impact every other aspect of how BVG makes his calls. Any news on Trey Lewis? I’m thinking our starters this year are Jamaal, Lewis, Babs and Abes, but I like the overall D-Line rotation. I’m just curious if you saw us getting the kind of push from the tackles of which we’re hopeful.
Jimbo
August 8th, 2009
10:00 am
Birdman – as far as the QB holding the clip board is concerned, the question for me is if Gdo forbid something should have and we need to go to the #2 QB, do we want to put the game into the hands of a person that is not game-tested at the NFL level. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not crazy about the $4M hit that Redman gives us against the cap, but he did well at the end of the ‘07 season and I know what I’m getting with him. I think it will be Ryan, Redman and Shock and probably for the better.
Jimbo
August 8th, 2009
10:01 am
Unca’ that should have benn “you KNOW that I’m expecting, darn typos, have to be more careful.
BIRDMAN
August 8th, 2009
10:21 am
Your prob right about that But ya never know till its all sayed and done.Redman though I just gotta bad fealin about.Hope we don’t need ether one to step in. Hope Matty stays healhy .Thanks Jimbo
BT
August 8th, 2009
10:43 am
Good morning Cagers, it`s been a very busy week for me.
Jimbo- Thanks for to the link to Targo`s post.
Been reading his post for quite some time, he is one heck of a poster.
BTW, Jimbo, if opened competition has any think to say about who wins the #2 QB job?
It`s Shockley with me, the guy brings a dimension that Redman does not possess, he is a leader, play maker and a winner.
Might be just me but Redman did not impress me too much at the end of the `07 season.
I don`t care about hollow stats, what I do remember is:
Redman had 4 downs to beat the Cardinals from the 7 yd. line (within the last 2 minutes game) and came up short in the loss.
To me, that`s where a QB can define himself.
IMO, if Shock had been the same situation, Falcons win.
JJ
August 8th, 2009
11:25 am
Morning ‘Cagers,
I’ve looking for any video (not photos) of the falcons scrimmage last night – nuttin! But I did come across this entertaining video on youtube about our team (video is shabby but sound is great).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzZ5uUr7JxY
BT – Experience is huge with a #2 QB, but I agree with you, DJ has outperformed so far. He definately has more upside than Redman, and I like this all-Uga formation! But the preseason will decide, looking forward to seeing DJ with our #1 O – for once!
JJ
August 8th, 2009
11:28 am
Unca ‘Bob – I never give up on my man, he’s only 5 out with 36 to go. Hope he gets his driver/3-wood worked out before the players champ. next week – #14 major I beleive.
JJ
August 8th, 2009
11:43 am
Ok ‘Cagers, I’m sure this one has been on here before but it really gets your blood flowing! I’m not a huge hip-hop fan, but this goes great with our greatest hits from last yr, TURN-IT UP!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7VkS0LxfCI&feature=related
Can anyone tell if this song is about the Falcons or just football in general? (love the bass!)
BT
August 8th, 2009
11:53 am
JJ, I know what your saying about having a veteran #2 backup QB.
True, Shock has taken zero snaps in regular season action.
However, if Smitty is bold enough to start a rookie at QB (obviously he is)then, I see no reason why a 3rd year man can`t be his backup, if he the 2nd best QB on the team.
Correct me, if I `m wrong but Smitty has indicated there is open competition for that slot.
Unca' Bob
August 8th, 2009
12:26 pm
JJ,
He is looking for #15.
Unca' Bob
August 8th, 2009
12:29 pm
Jimbo,
I live out of state so I did not attend. But the D-Line is critical to our Young DB’s.
BT
August 8th, 2009
1:20 pm
Unca Bob, Our young DB`s seem to be doing OK.
Have seen and heard nothing but good things about Grimes and Owens.
The battles at the CB and WR slots appear to be the most intense battles in camp.
Decloud appears to have the inside track at starting SS.
Tony Gilbert appears to be Lofton`s backup at MLB.
Robert James appears to be healthy in his return to make a run at backup OLB, that`s good news.
I `m with all that`s hoping that T.Lewis knees hold up enough to making him a integral part of the interior D-line rotation.
That said, it appears Walker has made the most of his reps to impress.
jason
August 8th, 2009
1:49 pm
BT, I think Unca’ Bob was talking about hoe the D-Line puts pressure on the QB as being beneficial to the young DBs. If there is no pass rush, the most experienced DBs will suffer.
How does Jerry look? I am not as worried about Lewis now as Walker is making the most of his chances, but we can’t afford to have 2 DTs out injured.
BT, as you have mentioned the DBs, who are your top 3? @ starters and the nickel. I live out west, and have no visuals to go on. I am relying on all you guys who have made it out to watch some of the practice sessions.
BT
August 8th, 2009
2:44 pm
Jason, it`s hard to tell about the push from the D-line.
Might have to credit the Falcons O-line as Dahl, McClure and Balock are not in the business of allowing someone to make a name by being pushed back into the QB`s lap?
The Falcons O-line is better than alot of folks wanna give credit.
That said, the news I got from last night, the interior D-line did not allow inside rushing yardage, all was outside.
That`s a step in the right direction IMO as the safeties can stay home in over the top coverage instead of inside run support.
From what I have heard, Jerry is making good progress and he will be a player but he is still a rookie with a lot to learn.
On the Corners, I still like Houston and Jackson for game one starters (at this point, due to experance) but Grimes is playing so well, he`s hard to ignore, with Owens being the most talented and phyisical of the bunch.
They will reach a point where keeping Owens out of the line up does nothing but hurt the team.
BT
August 8th, 2009
3:15 pm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v87/BlackTalon/10-18-2008026.jpg
Nothing to do with DT`s or Corners but here there is a photo (I took above)with Norwood in the slot, inside fake give to Turner, pitch to Norwood around the weakside.
It went for about 20 with Norwood being untouched before the DB`s forced him out of bounds.
Just a little touch of what camp is like.
JJ
August 8th, 2009
3:31 pm
Ok ‘Cagers, finally found some video of fridays’ night scrimmage and the “roam the Dome”. All of the videos so far show everything but the actual scrimmages! For ex.- one video shows 2 min of footage on the bus going to the dome, wow. This one is pretty cool just to see the new jumbo-tron…impressive!
http://jmike.blogs.atlantafalcons.com/2009/08/08/countdown-to-kickoff/
jason
August 8th, 2009
3:33 pm
It looks like we are getting what we want from our DTs. Not allowing any inside rushing yrads ! Now you got me stoked.
Your comment on the DBs is what I think everyone is feeling. I keep hearing Smitty talking about Jackson in the nickel. Looks to me like he will be in the nickel again this year. I like Houston at CB, his year to shine. He needs to turn it up another notch. I know he can do it. Me like you, love Owens. Just hearing TD comment on him, and I have yeat to see him in action. He will be starter I say by the first game after the bye week. That’s like the 6 game of the season. The question is what do we do with all the talent at CB? We have Houston, Grimes, Hutchins. and the 2 rookies, Middleton and Owens. Alot of talent looking for some PT. Has Glenn Sharpe done anything of notice at CB so far? He is another blazer out of Miami.
BT
August 8th, 2009
3:39 pm
Here is DJ Shockley on a designed roll out, just before setting up to fire.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v87/BlackTalon/10-18-2008025.jpg?t=1249759842
and in this one,(below) we have Abe, Gonzo, Finn (in the frame) with Douglas on the receiving end of a Ryan pass.
HD was having such a great camp, what a disappointment.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v87/BlackTalon/10-18-2008028.jpg?t=1249760221
BT
August 8th, 2009
3:54 pm
I know that Sharpe got some snaps last night and Von Hutchins is working out of the safety position.
Must say something for how deep we are at corner?
jason
August 8th, 2009
4:07 pm
I heard mention that Hutchins has the ability to play CB, Nickel, and both safety spots. Has there been any word on Antoine Harris. Will we caryy 5/5 CBs/Safeties?
BT
August 8th, 2009
4:36 pm
Looks like we will have to wait to next week to see what kind of pass rush the D can generate.
The game will be shown on the NFL Network, BTW.
By several accounts, I have heard and witnessed myself.
The defence will be much improved in the areas of LB and secondary play.
To gauge interior D-line and DE play.
We need some real opposition, instead of internal scrimmage.