Mid-Week Quick-Slant – 2nd Year QBs, DT Strength, and Dome Wishes
Ryan’s Second Year Comparison
Is Ryan in a Slump? (Curtis Compton/AJC)
Much has certainly been made of the somewhat down year that Matt Ryan has been having this year, many may call it a slump. His touchdowns are up (13 to 9 at this point last year), but so are his interceptions (10 to 5 through 8 games last year). In general, Ryan is almost exactly on pace to match his mark in terms of yardage. Many factors may be at play this year. The Falcons certainly have played a much tougher schedule to date (Lions, Chiefs, Raiders of last year were replaced by the Patriots and Cowboys), times of being sacked is surprisingly the exact same as this time last year (10), and there have been a few that may not entirely been his fault (Jenkins tipped pass in Chicago, Vilma’s excellent tipped pass play in New Orleans, etc). Excuses aside though, Ryan doesn’t “look” the same as he did last year. He doesn’t seem to have the same poise and confidence he had a year ago, and many fans have wondered if the Tony Gonzalez addition may have actually hurt Ryan’s development, instead of helping it. And as crazy as it may sound at first, Ryan does seem to be looking for Gonzo in spite of White, Jenkins, and Co. A look at some other quarterbacks and their first two years may help shed some light:
Quarterback
Games Played – Completion % – Pass Yards – TDs – Ints – QB Rating
John Elway
11 games – 47.5% – 1663 yds – 7 TDs – 14 Ints – 54.
15 games – 56.3% – 2598 yds – 18 TDs – 15 Ints – 76.8
Joe Montana
15 games – 64.5% – 1795 yds – 15 TDs – 9 Ints –
16 games – 63.7% – 3565 yds – 19 TDs – 12 Ints – 88.4
(sat rookie year)
Peyton Manning
16 games – 56.7% – 3,739 yds – 26 TDs – 28 Ints – 71.2
16 games – 62.1% – 4135 yds – 26 TDs – 15 Ints – 90.7
Tom Brady
15 games – 63.9% – 2843 yds – 18 TDs – 12 Ints – 86.5
16 games – 62.1% – 3764 yds – 28 TDs – 14 Ints – 85.7
(sat rookie year)
Drew Brees
16 games – 60.8% – 3,284 yds -17 TDs – 16 Ints – 76.9
11 games – 57.6% – 2,108 yds – 11 TDs – 15 Ints – 67.5
(sat rookie year)
Brett Favre
15 game – 64.1% – 3,227 – 18 TDs -13 Ints – 85.3
16 games – 60.9% -3,303 – 19 TDs – 24 Ints – 72.2
(sat rookie year)
Matt Ryan
16 games – 61.1% – 3,440 yds – 16 TDs – 11 Ints – 87.7
8 games – 60.7% – 1,784 yds – 13 TDs – 10 Ints – 82.2
C'mon Guys, Ryan is not Dan Marino
A look at the numbers reveals that Matt Ryan is in very good company indeed and that there simply is a growing process for all young quarterbacks in the NFL. Montana, Brees, Favre, and Brady all sat there rookie season being able to learn the ropes from the sidelines and in practice without strapping on the helmet for real. Ryan’s rookie year QB rating was better than all QBs listed except for Montana (and only .1 less than his). Favre and Brees, in particular, had a pretty sizeable drop from their first years. Its very true that statistics can be used in any direction to support pretty much any argument (Marino was left off because he was Superman in his first two years with a 96 and 108 QB rating), but to even be mentioned and be able to hold sway with this group says all that needs to be said. It is way too early and Ryan has got to get some of his mojo back from last year, but patience is a virtue and if stats forecast anything, it looks like the Falcons may have a good one at QB.
Defensive Tackle a Future of Strength?
Is Vance Walker Still 293 lbs? (Old Photo)
One of the biggest question marks coming into the season was the lack of strength and depth at defensive tackle. When Grady Jackson left, it left a big hole both figuratively and literally in the Falcons defensive line. The drafting of Peria Jerry was an immediate upgrade, but he was sidelined for the year in game two against Carolina. Trey Lewis didn’t make an early impact, Thomas Johnson leapt from anonymity to starting, and some thought that the Falcons may be looking DT early again in next year’s draft. That may have changed as of recent. The Falcons are shutting down some of the most potent of rushing attacks and, although the stats may not say it, they are holding some of the best backs or tandems pretty well under wraps (Ronnie Brown-Ricky Williams, Deangelo Williams-Jonathan Stewart, Matt Forte, Barber-Jones-Choice, and Bush-Bell-Thomas). The move of Jamaal Anderson has been a win-win and has helped in the running game. Babineaux showed what he can do on any given Sunday with his 2.5 sack effort, Vance Walker is putting his stamp on this team with his toughness and quickness, Trey Lewis is getting back up to speed, and that’s not even including 1st round draft pick Peria Jerry coming back from injury next year. Certainly always room for improvement and ranking 24th in rush defense seems pretty terrible, but the cupboard seems way more stocked for the future than recent years.
Dome Wishes
Would This Make You Happy in the Dome?
After being halfway through the season, the Georgia Dome has hosted half of its eight game slate, and that got mind turning on what could the Terror-Dome do to improve its gameday experience. What would enhance your Falcons home game experience on Sundays?
More single gameday parking availability?
Better place to tailgate and get revved up for the game for Marta riders?
Better food or more choices on concessions (The Varsity in the Dome anyone?)
More lounges like the Jack Daniels lounge or easier access to places like the Miller Lite lounge?
NFL.com Power Rankings
Cool deal over at NFL.com, where it lets you rank all 32 teams in terms of who’s best from week to week. Experts pick: Falcons #9 and Community pick: Falcons #12. Check it out: http://fanrankings.nfl.com/
Big game upcoming against the Panthers in Carolina on Sunday. Better not even think about getting caught looking ahead to the road game in New York. The Cats aren’t having the best of years, but they are showing much improvement and Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte is always a tough place to play. Enjoy the mid-week musings and hopefully it’ll get to Friday (or Sunday in our case).
Your Turn
-Ryan in 2nd Year: Slump or Normal Progression?
-What’s your opinion on biggest difference between rookie and sophomore campaigns?
-Tougher opponents or Ryan’s got a case of the “happy feet?”
-How do you like the DT strength and depth?
-All set at DT or need to look for another in the draft?
-What would enhance your Falcons gameday experience?
-What can the Terror Dome add to make Sundays more enjoyable?
-Nervous about Panther game in Carolina?
Check out our AJC Fellow Fan Bloggers:
Leo Willingham on Florida A&M’s rankings
Bill King on Junkyard Blawg’s Fan of the Week
Chris Boggs on Georgia Tech’s Awesome Coach
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158 comments Add your comment
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
10:50 pm
Hey I’m here!
Box
November 10th, 2009
10:56 pm
Glad it wasn’t me this time.
DePlane
November 10th, 2009
10:57 pm
Falcons will roll on Carolina…MR2 is coming to and will have a breakout day
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:02 pm
DePlane,
That will be this week’s mantra.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:04 pm
Sarah/Box,…lol you guys are too funny! Frit and frat!
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:06 pm
UNO or YAHTZEE for first!!!
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:11 pm
Uno or Yahtzee
D3, great post buddy. SI.com just did mid-term reports, maybe some info for you for future reports…can we trade ur ffl players if ur done?
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:14 pm
JJ,
We are offended. We are frick and frack. Oh, those youngsters.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:18 pm
JJ is not exactly a youngster.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:19 pm
Sarah, tell gene he should keep his orig. name of “kick azz” because he has for the last few weeks in FFL. Personally I dont care but a white guy changing to the “Jeffersons” is complicated at best, JMHO!
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:20 pm
Younger than moi. That is french. Maybe I am bilingual.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:20 pm
39 for awhile now!
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:22 pm
Box,
Tu parle francaise? Je ne sais pas?
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:28 pm
JJ,
I took it in high school. How could you have known, you were barely out of diapers, you young whipper-snapper.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:29 pm
2 yrs french h.s., thats all I have, except some latin still rattleing around in my head…
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:31 pm
JJ,
My first response should have been, oui, je parler francaise. I hope that I conjegated the phrase properly. It has been a long time.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:34 pm
I know, huge diff, from mid 40’s to late 40’s…what couple of yrs…you just dont like marist, thats ok, I did go to DHS first in 8 th grade, where did you go? P’tree, chamblee?
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:38 pm
My eight grade was spent as a proud Sandy Springs Panther. A member of the Golden Ghetto track team. I also started on the varsity soccer team. We were then split up between Ridgeview, Riverwood, and North Springs for 9th through 12th. That sucked.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:38 pm
JJ he thinks he’s movin on up… Get it?
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:40 pm
Box, he’s lying.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:41 pm
ps- I’m not catholic, dunwoody baptist! I think my parents fudged my appl. to marist!
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:43 pm
Jeesh, I went to HS in MI. Was in band and ran track since were reliving the past.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:44 pm
Hey what about Larry Johnson???
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:45 pm
Couldn’t hurt…
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:45 pm
Shawty,
You mean KC Johnson? What about him?
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:46 pm
JJ, Mr Painter, my room looks great!
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:46 pm
Shawty,
Bad karma for the locker room.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:46 pm
Box they cut him – just like that…
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:47 pm
As much as the walls are going up, you guys/gal bring great joy to my life, too funny, what a small world after all, take care guys/lady, cia on flip, been a privelage to be apart of the late night crew…thanks!
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:49 pm
Maybe not – change of sceanery…
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:49 pm
JJ,
I am not wall building. If that was your impression, please accept my apology.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:50 pm
JJ is sensitive…
Box
November 10th, 2009
11:51 pm
Shawty,
Off field issues. Female assault charge, I think. Not sure, though.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:52 pm
I thought he just threw a hissy fit because he wasn’t getting enough playing time.
Shawty
November 10th, 2009
11:53 pm
Oh and they suck.
JJ
November 10th, 2009
11:55 pm
Box, not you buddy but the other night sarah talked about painting and how I didnt help and building walls…just didnt have time like I thought I would, my bad…just not on internet, no biggie, goodnight Box/sarah.
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:05 am
JJ,
Later dude.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:10 am
I told you he was sensitive.
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:12 am
Shawty,
I don’t believe that LJ would work in ATL, but I would respect the opinion of TG on the subject. I would trust his judgement of the LJ character issue. Also, what would be the salary cap issues. I don’t see a two feature back combo in our backfield, either. Neither Turner nor Johnson would be happy with a split work load.
JJ
November 11th, 2009
12:12 am
ditto box.
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:23 am
JJ,
11:47 post. I sense a past tense. Not abandoning late night crew, are you?
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:28 am
It depends on how long Jerious is out. I’m just saying.
Wabe
November 11th, 2009
12:29 am
I’m right there with you DePlane. I feel a breakout game coming from Ryan within the next couple of weeks.
Make it happen Ryan!
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:30 am
JJ, Shawty, and other Cage members,
On another note, I will be very close to Spalding and Old Alabama Derby over Xmas holiday. Could we stand a chance meeting? If not all, then some? My schedule is always very tight during holiday visits, but if any of you are close by, then even a couple of cold ones to meet and greet would be “groovy”!!! Another age comment, couldn’t resist.
With Love and Respect…
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:32 am
Wabe I’m with you.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:35 am
I’m close, keep me posted!!! I’ll be there!
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:36 am
Shawty,
LJ and Michael Turner are the same type punishing running back. LJ would not be the lightning to Turner’s thunder. He would not provide the contrast that J Rock provides. Damn, get an OLD MAN talking and this is what you get. IMHO
WR
November 11th, 2009
12:38 am
Wow, I get sick for a couple of days and come back to find that the birdcage is now a retirement home,LOL. Had plenty of catching up to do today cagers so I’m checking back in with the late night crew, or the oldies but goodies, wouldn’t want a bunch of denture and diaper wearing folks storming the house, imagine that, waking up to a bunch of false teeth being thrown at your window, just kidding everyone, I hope I live to get to your ages, it appears that all of you are enjoying it.
Alright before I get ran off, D3, nice post, I also believe the Falcons have a good QB but I do agree with someone’s earlier post stating that Ryan seems to be focusing to much on forcing passes into Gonzo. I think he just wants to make the future hall of famer happy, plus he knows thats a reliable place to throw the ball, but spreading the ball around will keep defenses from solely concentrating on Gonzo which in turn will make him an even more reliable source.
Just a quick hit to get my feet wet, good to be back in the cage.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:39 am
If Norwood is coming Back. No word yet.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:43 am
WR, welcome back!!!
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:44 am
WR send me an email.
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:45 am
WR,
I have all of my own teeth, a strong back, and have no incontinent problems. Where do you fall into our mix. ROFL.
Shawty,
Smitty has been really strict about not announcing his IR until the mandatory Wednesday deadline.
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:47 am
Cage,
I hope that I didn’t offend anyone. Not my intent.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:47 am
Learned from the Pats… I like it.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:48 am
you didn’t.
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:51 am
WR,
Agreement on MR. He was compared to the early greats without a premiere TE last year, and now is pushing to the HOF TE. Have TG stay in and block a few plays and that is another guessing game for the opposing DC to figure out.
WR
November 11th, 2009
12:55 am
Box you got me by more then a decade, I’m practically still on the similac in comparison but the spring chicken days are over, but I’m a long way from the viagra days, check that, I could jinx myself and then I really would be sick,LOL. Most of ya’ll had me fooled especially you box with all the late nights, Falcon21 I definitely wouldn’t have never guess that either.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:55 am
Hey, just a reminder, I think I ssid Percey Harvin for ROY. Beat that!
Box
November 11th, 2009
12:57 am
From a chess game prespective, we need to use TG as a knight instead of a queen.
Shawty
November 11th, 2009
12:58 am
Hey, WR I can be whatever age you want.
WR
November 11th, 2009
1:00 am
I agree Box, I figure people have to understand that last year this rookie had a strong running game and a pro-bowl wide receiver, add in a couple of decent but not great receivers and his options weren’t great. Now you throw in a TE who is all world, you still have that probowl wideout and the running game and now your in your second year trying to win while at the sametime keeping everybody happy, he will figure it out and then watch out.
WR
November 11th, 2009
1:04 am
Shawty your age is fine but I don’t want to hurt anybody,LOL, anyway the cougars are in right now so your good.
Box, my point exactly, between the running game getting going and all the attention Gonzo attracts the Falcons need to take more deep shots they have the receivers for it.
Box
November 11th, 2009
1:06 am
WR,
I could never fool anyone. I can hang with the best, at least have always tried to. Workaholic says a lot. Just a little tougher to get up in the A.M. And still have never had to use the purple pill.
WR
November 11th, 2009
1:15 am
Box, my father is the same way, the man is nearly 70 and runs around like he thinks he’s 20 you should here my mom complain about how he thinks he’s still cool, but they have been married for 40 years and continue to keep each other happy so you gotta figure they both think there still young even if the world disagrees.
Box
November 11th, 2009
1:20 am
WR,
I’m now puzzled. How should I take this?
Shawty,
Wake up.
WR
November 11th, 2009
1:28 am
Box, I wasn’t saying it as a bad thing, I just like the fact that your still enjoying life and feel young at heart in a society that believes otherwise, I want to be in the same position when I hit that age, at 45 my father was still able to kick my butt in a game of basketball and I was only 13, that tells me that he was taking care of himself and enjoying life which is a great thing.
Box
November 11th, 2009
1:31 am
I say good night to all good lads and lasses.
WR
November 11th, 2009
1:34 am
Box, thats why I joked with Shawty about hurting someone, I remember when she talked about staying up all night and how much it killed her the next day and I have always been an all nighter thats just something I guess I inherited.
WR
November 11th, 2009
1:35 am
Have a good one Box, as JJ would say cia on the flip, I guess I better be calling it a night myself, later cagers, well at least you late nighters
Dean21
November 11th, 2009
2:22 am
Good stuff D3….wassup cagers?? Well to my night shift crew!! I think the birds will benefit taking the bus to Charlotte instead of flying. I feel this team getting stronger and the jel factor is working since the DHall (look at me, don’t forget about train). Hopefully we will revenge that beating we took from Carolina last year at their place.
Dean21
November 11th, 2009
2:43 am
Ryan in 2nd Year: Slump or Normal Progression?
Mild Slump, but play calling is a factor, must be more patience in the pocket and learn to move up when the pocket collapse.
-What’s your opinion on biggest difference between rookie and sophomore campaigns?
Most of us understand that a slump is normal in any sophomore fashion even in the music industry. I think Ryan playing a soft schedule last year and teams not having film on him helped pad his rookie stats.
-Tougher opponents or Ryan’s got a case of the “happy feet?”
No question, tougher opponents! You can tell by the way our running game has been shut down. I would also like to mention not just tougher opponents, opponent stadiums but also tougher(great coaches) i.e. Sir Bill BillAcheat, Andy Reid, Wade Phillips, Tom Coughlin and Shawn Patten aint to bad either!!
-How do you like the DT strength and depth?
Up and rising seems to be the case at this point. Moving JA98 has been a darn good move and KB71 has a motor that continues to impress!
-All set at DT or need to look for another in the draft?
I still want a big dude clogging the middle which TD might look toward free agency next year for this to happen, but with the stable being back and healthy next year, we might want to hold serve to see how the next 8 games goes.
-What would enhance your Falcons gameday experience?
D3, you already know how I feel about the parking issues! I think the Falcons Landing is quite an experience on game day! I would like more
activities for the fans on gameday and more Falcons team gear give aways!
-What can the Terror Dome add to make Sundays more enjoyable?
You hit it on the the nail!! The Varsity is a must…more variety of beer selections! More restrooms!!! LOL (not gonna happen)!
-Nervous about Panther game in Carolina?
No, not at all. This is a game we should win! If they loose this game, it could cost them dearly down the stretch!
Singletary
November 11th, 2009
4:01 am
In re Ryan’s “happy feet,” I think that went down dramatically after Svitek came in. Baker was not maintaining any sort of pocket on the left side during the Dallas or Saints games. However, it still makes me angry that he is blamed for the Saints loss. To me, Elam’s two misses were much more of a problem than Ryan’s albeit erratic throws.
Patty melt At QB ( Ice) not
November 11th, 2009
6:50 am
clunker under pressure all of the QB you listed had few tool to work with Ryan has the Whole table. He is and will be just another QB that all.just like you listed all the QB rating list who they had playing for them Ryan has a much better around him he just not all that !!
Birdman
November 11th, 2009
7:16 am
Alright cage is anybody up for a game of bingo…..LOL..
Great post D3
I agree on MR . You said it all and with this kids determination he will be one of the best if not the best in years to come . People out there hate we got him instead of them getting him .
DJ
November 11th, 2009
7:47 am
I don’t really care about much of this except:
- Nothing wrong with Matt Ryan. The opponents are getting have figured out the only way to stop him is to be very agressive and, in his 2nd year, Matt is figuring out the counter strategies such as audible running plays that produce touchdowns.
- The food at the Dome is awful. We already had a Varisty there (what happened?) and there once was a kiosk with some great soup and sandwiches but that only lasted a couple years.
I am going to start crashing tailgates if the food doesn’t improve.
CBrass
November 11th, 2009
8:31 am
Just wanted to give a huge thank you to each and every one who have served or is currently serving our beloved country. THANK YOU!!!
The Real Falcon
November 11th, 2009
8:51 am
Just a quick question.
IS THIS A FOOTBALL BLOG?
CBrass
November 11th, 2009
8:54 am
The Browns picked up RB Thomas Brown on 11/10/09. I hope things work out for him.
LRD
November 11th, 2009
9:11 am
Ryan: Normal progression imho. I think last year just set the expectations so high, that anything less than perfection is deemed inadequate this year. and heck he is only 2 yrs in and he has so easily assumed leadership of this team.
Happy feet AND tougher opponents. May be biased, but y’all know our schedule aint exactly soft. Hopefully the happy feet will stop tap dancing soon…very soon
Carolina does worry me.. could it be Fox is looking over his shoulder and Jake needs to again prove his worth, I would not exactly count them out.
Defense: I am still suprised at how well our D is coming together. I also like the fact Smitty is talking to his D good or bad, and seems to constantly pumping them up more than the O. Sounds maybe a bit silly, but having your coach believe goes a long way in confidence, and confidence leads to better play etc and so forth
Defense Part II: Curtis Lofton is leading the league in Tackles.. yet you never hear much in the press really about that. 2 years in to what could be a phenomenal career here in ATL and seems like he does not get mentioned much.
Dome Experience: Being a Marta rider, I never had to deal with driving down there. Plus sitting usually in the upper level, just ask for the upper speakers to be turned down 1 notch…i know the entire stadium needs to hear, but more than half the time anything said thru those speakers sounds like “And the Daludfkafladflkjfdlkfd First down”. Took my folks last week and had to give them a bit of play by play as you could not understand half what went thru the speakers
RobbE33
November 11th, 2009
9:59 am
Ryan’s going thru a natural progression and hasn’t really hit the nasty sophomore slump most QB’s experience. Besides, the coaches are cagey and like to set teams up with apparent tendencies and change them when it’s to our advantage. I’m wouldn’t be surprised to see alot more downfield strikes later in the season.
BurningRedBleedingBlack
November 11th, 2009
10:43 am
Ryan is fine! I think we all get it that hes going to be great, however we don’t want to wait for that. We have played alot tougher opponets this year, especially defense! Ryan will be fine i really feel he’ll get it going from now till the end of the season. Guys remember it’s his second year. We are 5-3 right now, and everyone loves him and what hes doing all the sports broadcasters talk highly off him. The panther always scare me the love beating us espcially now that we have a team that contends. The DT getting stronger is a huge plus for us, i hope they go for a solid DE or another Dt in the draft Getting are D some depth is the key to a superbowl! To all the verterans who served or serve our beautiful country God bless you guys. Lets Go ATLANTA!!!!!!!!!
Stirg d'Nahsif
November 11th, 2009
11:34 am
Just stepping in to wish all us veterans a very Happy Veteran’s Day! Unca’ Bob, JJ, Warrior, myself (I forget who else served). Thank You, CBrass; and, Thank You all for your service and protecting our asses. Good Job! Huah!
Stirg d'Nahsif
November 11th, 2009
11:36 am
Oh, and don’t forget, Applebee’s is free today!
Dawson Devitt (D3)
November 11th, 2009
11:42 am
Great Mid Week Day Cagers!
Already past the midpoint and the game this week will go a long way towards cementing the games we should win and elevating our status as far as making sure to win the ones that you’re supposed to. That, of course, hasn’t always been the case and Panthers have been playing much better recently. Got to get our heads on straight and win this one.
Veterans Salute – Absolutely a heart-felt, sincere, and gracious offering of sincere thanks to all the Veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice and been the true Heroes of our country. Coop, jason, Ken Strickland, Unca’ Bob, Seminole Warrior, and any one else I may have missed……THANKS FOR EVERYTHING YOU’VE DONE FOR US AND OUR COUNTRY!!!!!!!!!!!
Fines Expected – Just heard on ESPN from Adam Schefter that fines look to be handed down to Smitty for his actions with Me-Hall suckface :evi: from the sideline scuffle on Sunday.
Bird Cage FFL – Yes, I know some of you will get mad at me on this one, but I’ve gotten several emails about the excess of fantasy football talk here in the Cage. This is and always will be a place to talk ALL THINGS and not just Falcons football, but there have been several complaints about the amount of fantasy talk. You know I don’t care and its all good if you want to occasionally chat Fantasy Football, but not 100% of the time. The only reason is because it includes only 10 of us who are in the league. You know I love ya’ll and hope this doesn’t piss you off too much.
DePlane – That would be absolutely awesome. Ryan will get there. People forget that he completed 70% of his passes on Sunday, despite the one interception.
JJ – Thanks buddy. Sorry couldn’t get to your tailgate. I took my older brother and we got there right at game time. I am definitely in for the Giants meet-up, period. Already told the CEO.
Box – I first tried to major in International Business at UGA until I had my first French class. That went out the window really quick.
WR – I thought Gonzo would be a lock to improve Ryan’s productivity, not hinder it. Your Tech boys are looking tough. Will you accept a Johnson for Richt switch?
Dean21 – Long time no talk my friend. Assuming JA#98 stays at DT, Vance continues his progression, and Trey and Peria get back to full-speed, I think I’m good with our DT rotation, but a big ol’ body would be nice. Maybe I went to the wrong place, but the Landing was just a bunch of kids games and no where to really sit and drink. Me and whoever comes with me, CEO mostly, go down to the benches between the Dome and WCC and its nice and chill down there to drink some brews.
Singletary – Great points about bringing up Elams missed points. I think Ryan is pretty much on par with most second year QBs.
Birdman – Belated Happy BDay my man! I agree that Ryan’s work ethic will put him over the top.
DJ – Agreed on Ryan and food. Tougher schedule and a year of tape equals decreased production. The food is pretty bad and of course WAY overpriced. I usually go for the peanuts these days. They have these bomb@ss Nachos, but you have to go to one stop. I think they should franchise out some places: The Varsity, McD’s, Taco Mac, or something.
CBrass – How goes it my Bulldog Buddy? Heading up to Auburn-UGA game this weekend. I grew up an Auburn fan and went to UGA. Dad is the biggest Auburn fan I know. Thanks for the Thomas Brown update. Still don’t know why we didn’t keep him on practice squad at the minimum.
The Real Falcon – We try to keep Falcons Football first and paramount, but we go off in different directions sometimes. Mainly friends, family, food, college ball, & good times; but the Fantasy talk has certainly consumed a lot of oxygen in here.
LRD – Glad you have become an official regular of the Bird Cage. Your insights are always spot on. I’m a touch worried about Sunday, but that’s my nature (I am a UGA Bulldog fan after all), but we HAVE to win this one to be playoff bound.
RobE33 – Good points. Boy, would that be awesome to see down the stretch for Ryan to heat up and rock it out. Could be true.
BurningRedBleeedingBlack – I completely agree with you. We forget that he’s a second year QB who did not sit for a year. He will be fine in the end and his work ethic will put him over the top.
Dawson Devitt (D3)
November 11th, 2009
11:45 am
Stirg, Happy Veterans Day…….sorry forgot to include you!
Stirg d'Nahsif
November 11th, 2009
11:47 am
Thanks, D3. Haven’t been in the cage for awhile but it feels good to be remembered. I’ll lighten up on the FFL….
Marcus
November 11th, 2009
11:54 am
hey, man, I guess I entered my comments on the previous blog too late. You got some of what I asked for (basically looking ahead for 2010 and mid-season grading) : DT looks solid with the youth. Finely capsulated in the blog, as always. My thoughts for 2010 are for DB and RB: DB to add talent and depth (but the college DB crop looks lean unless someone comes on in the All-Star games or Combine). RB: I think Norwood is a restricted FA next year and hasn’t seemed healthy the last couple of years. Like him a lot, but if he slips (or ) wouldn’t mind Clemson SR RB C.J. Spiller or RB/WR Jacoby Ford filling his spot
As far as mid-season grades, I guess after every game you give unit grades, so maybe not that critical.
Are we where we EXPECTED to be, compared to our pre-season forecast? dunno, but didn’t expect NO to be the team they are, with a 3 game lead in the division by the mid-way point.
MV7
November 11th, 2009
12:16 pm
Hi, it’s Mike, y’know? Have you seen my career?
CBrass
November 11th, 2009
12:29 pm
D3,
You bet I’ll be there bright and early. Will you be making it to the game? You grew up an Awbarn fan?!?! That had to be really bad however not as bad as you wanting to switch Johnson for Richt!!! What the hell is up with that?!?!? LOL I honestly can’t say that I will be upset with less FF talk. As always great post!!
Stirg,
I see you included me in your thank you but I’ve never served. I was just giving my thanks also. Good to see you back here.
WR
November 11th, 2009
12:32 pm
D3, you know UGA wouldn’t take a Johnson type coach, its all about the program and the fan base, the Dawgs have to have a high scoring, high octane type of attack to keep the fan base excited, Johnson has done a great job at Tech, some offers are coming in from other programs but most programs shy away because they feel its not exciting enough, I believe if Tech continues to show how effective and exciting the offense can be it will eventually lead to more looks from big time programs, but it will take time.
You heard it here first, if the Dawgs start to even consider letting Richt go, Tuberville is the first man they should call. His teams held their own against the best teams in the SEC, even while officials were talking and having secret meetings against him while he was at Auburn. Now as a Tech fan I would hate to see him land at UGA, as a fan of the state of Georgia teams it would be a great move. I still believe Richt is the right coach for UGA, he just needs to make tougher decisions regarding his coordinators.
Stirg d'Nahsif
November 11th, 2009
12:43 pm
Yes; I know, C. I was thanking You for your recognition. As a Veteran, it warms Me when people recognize our contributions. Thanks again.
CBrass
November 11th, 2009
12:55 pm
Stirg,
I see. You are very welcome!!
sportaree
November 11th, 2009
3:05 pm
Just my luck. I’m about 50 miles from an Applebee’s.
Samuel
November 11th, 2009
3:46 pm
I’m not worry about Matty Ice slump or not, the defensive line seems to get better. We haven’t had a real good game on all three cylinders yet. Special teams, defense, and offense. Hence the best is yet to come. If we go to Carolina and seal a win- moving forward will be in the thick of things. This team has not reach It’s potential and if Tye Hill can come in and develope into a shut down corner it Improves our chances in the playoffs. I’m convinced that their’s some players on this team who can be coached up. we need Eric Weems to get atleast three kick off run backs before the end of the season. Go Falcons!!
LRD
November 11th, 2009
4:04 pm
D3.. spot on, or just master of obvious? hahaha
Interesting.. SI had mid season article.. for New Orleans they predicted they would not remain undefeated this year, and the team to beat them was the Falcons… which is part the Saints schedule and the fact the Falcons are going to be 9-3 at that point…with our back to back winnning season secured,Matt thawed and on fire, Norwood healthy, Baker back by that point…. the Dome will be rocking for that game.
(or poetic justice would be us securing our back to back seasons while handing the saints their first loss…)
Unca' Bob
November 11th, 2009
5:36 pm
Cagers,
Just got my junk back from my local computer guy. Hoping it works.
First and foremost, happy Veterns’s Day to each and everyone of you that have so proudly served. God bless you all.
A belated happy birthday to Birdman and the Marine Corps(235 years of service). And no, not Birdman, he’s still a puppy.
Strig,
Wonderful to see you back on board, regardless of the duration. I hope you know, you still hold a soft button with me.
To all the hard-core Falcon fans, my bad. Simply felt the need.
Go Faslcons!!
Unca' Bob
November 11th, 2009
5:37 pm
Oop’s. Drop the S.
Unca' Bob
November 11th, 2009
6:44 pm
D3,
As always, a great summary.
M Ryan is simply going through a learning curve. With the exception of NO, he has done well against the teams he has faced before. As he continues to go through the League, he will become more comfortable with the teams he’s not faced before. Every year brings new and uncharted teams and he will do fine. He has faced some teams the Falcons have not played and he is unfamiliar with, regardless of film. To date, he has the confidence of the Offence, and I’m good with that.
Y’all can nit-pick this to death, I like what he will emerge into.
Unca' Bob
November 11th, 2009
7:14 pm
Good night all.
Coop
November 11th, 2009
7:43 pm
Happy Veteran’s Day. Thanks to all who have served and thanks for the recognition to those of us who have said, “Here am I, send me”. As a proud vertran of over 16 years and multiple deployments, let me say, it is my honor to serve this great nation. I do it to honor my grandparents and uncles who served before me, and because I love this country.
I do not play inthe Cage FFL. Personaly, the chatter doesn’t bother me. I just scroll past it. I love the Cage because it is devoid of the racists and hate baters on the other blog. I say leave it the way it is.
I’m inspired by VW (maybe that could be his nickname – like the bug or the bus?) at DT. If he looks like he could be the big body anchor, I’ll say we’re good at DT. If not, then I want thenm to make a runin FA at a Wilfork to put next to Jerry and Babs. Trey Lewis is not a permanent solution. JA98 can stay IF he takes a pay cut to play DT.
I’ll give Beerman and Sid the Kid another year to show they can be the future ends.
First round needs to be a shutdown corner if available. 2nd round – OT (assuming we get a pick in this round), 3rd round – OLB (Peterson’s eventual replacement, 4th round – OC, 5th round – RB, 6th round OG. I love our O Line guys, but I’m not sure they are the caliber of the line in NE. A lot of Brady and Manning’s greatness is the 5 guys standing in fron tof them. We over-achieve on the O Line right now.