Back in Dome vs. the Bucs
Well Beyond a “Must-Have” Game
Snelling in for Another Big Day? (AP)
The Falcons return home to the friendly confines of the Georgia Dome after losing 4 of their last 5 games, all coming on the road. This team is in a pure must win mode through the rest of the season and really have no room for error whatsoever. The losses at New England, at Dallas, at New Orleans, and at New York aren’t necessarily bad given the state of “the process” of this team, but the loss to the now 4-6 Carolina Panthers looks to prove a dagger in most of the Falcons playoff chances. Playoffs should be one of the farthest things from the Falcons minds at this point, though, because they get the 1-9 Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Georgia Dome on Sunday and have to take care of business against a team in pure rebuilding mode. (Check out DOL’s new blog on the Falcons mindset vs. the Bucs). There really is not much satisfaction in doing what needs to be done against the Bucs, but dropping one like this would not only destroy any postseason thoughts, but would put major doubts into Coach Smith’s new regime. To his credit, Coach Smith led teams usually win the ones they are supposed to, barring that Panther game a couple of weeks ago. Much like the Washington game, this opponent will provide no immediate relief in terms of the playoff picture, but could seriously derail a season. Just ask Green Bay if they should take this team lightly. The Bucs have shown life in recent weeks and even led the New Orleans Saints for a quarter last week. The rookie quarterback Josh Freeman is playing extremely well and the defense still has some playmakers on defense. It’s a much overused cliché, but the Falcons have to take care of business on Sunday and get ready for the game of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles coming into town. Without this one, though, the rest of the season may turn catastrophic.
Six Searing Questions
1) Is Chris Owens the Future at Cornerback?
Owens Finally Getting His Shot? (footballsfuture.com)
Much has been made of the atrocious play of the secondary throughout the season for the Falcons defense. The defensive unit sinks or swims as a team, but the lack of play from the cornerbacks has been the driving force in many losses. The defensive line may not be getting good pressure on the opposing quarterbacks, but the Falcons CBs have shown an inability to cover simply toss and catches. The same Giants offense that had Eli Manning throwing for 384 yards against the Falcons, was held to a whopping 77 yards of TOTAL offense in the first half by the Denver Broncos on Thanksgiving. Something’s gotta give with the cornerbacks. Is it coaching, the players, or schemes they are running? Thomas Dimitroff deserves a lion share of blame for this one because he knew what the situation was heading into the season and sat on his hands when several free agent Corners could have made a difference for a reasonable price. The Brian Williams signing was good, but was a completely reactive move instead of proactive. Chris McAlister sat at home the entire time without a call from Dimitroff, until he was signed by no one other than the rival New Orleans Saints, who are undefeated by the way. Too his credit, Dimtroff drafted Chris Owens in the 3rd round of the draft, who was a pretty unknown commodity coming out but was known for his speed, physicality, and cover skills. Looks like Chris Owens will finally get his shot. Many fans question what took so long, because could it have been much worse? Hopefully the answer is no come Sunday. The Falcons have serious issues at the cornerback situation going forward, and some hope for the future in Owens sure would be nice.
2) Which Defensive Line will Show Up?
The cornerback play has been one of the biggest reasons for a porous defense this year, but the defensive line’s lack of pressure on the opposing quarterbacks on a consistent basis deserves a large part as well. Basically, the Falcons feast on less than stellar teams in terms of sacks and pressure (Washington – 5 sacks for instance), but can’t even get close to the quarterback when they run up against good to great teams. The defensive line unit couldn’t even get to Jake Delhomme after All-World left tackle Jordan Gross went down with an injury against the Falcons in Charlotte. John Abraham by all accounts should have made the Pro Bowl last year with his 16.5 sacks, and is a shell of his former self with 3.5 sacks to this point in the year with 2 of them coming in the first game against the Dolphins. Kroy Biermann was thought to be a possible long-term answer at defensive end, and likely still is, but he’s only four sacks as well this year. Biermann gets the benefit of the doubt to this point with most fans because he’s only in his second year and has a high octane motor. After giving some flashes in preseason, looks like Lawrence Sidbury Jr. will only see spot duty this year in his rookie campaign. Jamaal Anderson has moved inside and the results have been mixed, but generally have helped the run game. Jonathan Babineaux can be a force on any given day, but without a legitimate threat next to him, a double-team effort easily takes him out of the game. Trey Lewis evidently can’t reclaim his rookie form and Vance Walker may hold promise but is a rookie who was drafted in the 7th round. Do the Falcons miss a big body in the middle to occupy blockers for other playmakers? Issues abound on the defensive line and question is not whether the Falcons will draft or sign a DL, just if it’s a defensive tackle or defensive end.
3) Can the Falcons Defense Keep Down the Bucs?
Freeman Showing Great Progress (ESPN.com)
The Tampa Bay Bucs do have their issues and do stand at 1-9 on the season, but to take them lightly as if they have no playmakers would be a huge mistake. Josh Freeman already has almost 700 yards passing with 4 TDs and is showing great promise as a first round draft pick. The Bucs may have finally found a long-term answer at quarterback, which was a main reason Jon Gruden is calling Monday Night Football games now. They may not be lighting up the scoreboard, but the Bucs offense is chock full of several names that could do some damage if given some time and allowed to get into rhythm. Cadillac Williams was once one of the most dangerous running backs before injuries derailed him. Williams has regained some of his play with almost 500 yards and 3 TDs. Derrick Ward was one of the best available backs on the free agent market last year, and Earnest Graham was an absolute stud at RB only one short year ago. Antonio Bryant had All-Pro worthy year last year in Tampa and could certainly make due against he Falcons corners. Michael Clayon hasn’t lived up to his young promise as a rookie, but is one of those big receivers (6’4, 215) that give the Birds CBs fits. Maurice Stovall and Josh Johnson are also threats as receivers. Kellen Winslow of course has the potential to be one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the league and is en route to a possible 1,000 yard, 10 TD season. The Falcons did shut down offenses that had some struggles in the Redskins, 49ers, and Bears, but they allowed the Panthers to get on track early and often and the result may be the difference in making the playoffs. The Birds better not take this offense lightly.
4) Can the Offense Continue the 2nd Half Mojo from New York?
Michael Turner looks to be out again and Jerious Norwood shouldn’t be counted on until he’s spotted on the field, but Jason Snelling showed he’s more than capable of picking up the load in his solid to great game last week (70+ yards rushing, 2 TDs) against he Giants. Ryan had another difficult half in New York, but rebounded very nicely in the second and led a second half comeback charge that was great for Falcons fans to see. Ryan led the Birds back down from 14 points in the fourth quarter by showing his cool and calm demeanor in the pocket, delivering his throws with authority and finally looking comfortable in the backfield. Possibly more importantly, Ryan broke his streak of interceptions, even though he did have a turnover. Michael Jenkins had a solid day receiving, but most fans will remember the big drop wide open in the endzone that could have won the game. Roddy White appears to be drawing double coverage and Tony Gonzalez continues to be bracketed across the top by linebackers and safeties, basically forcing Snelling or another option at wideout to beat them. Eric Weems finally got some looks in the slot and resulted in an easy touchdown. Weems should get every chance to prove he can add value to the slot the way he does to special teams. The Falcons offense not only want to continue their solid 2nd half performance in New York, but will need to be getting into peak form with the Eagles and Saints coming to town next. Here’s to hoping that the Falcons may finally find consistency with their offense.
5) Is There a Locker Room Issue?
Is There a Locker Room Issue? (AP)
A quote that came from John Abraham this past week likely went unnoticed by many fans and media types alike when he was discussing issues with the secondary and defense in general. Speaking of the defensive woes concerning the secondary’s spotty play, Abraham said “we’ve been having trouble back there, so we have to try something new. Everybody knows that after the Giants game, we were kind of exposed a little bit. Maybe with people not knowing the coverages or not being grown-ups about what they are supposed to do, so we’ve got to make changes.” Not only was Abraham calling out many in the secondary publicly, but the part that raises a few eyebrows is the part about people being “grown-ups.” Very interesting choice of words in referring to his own teammates in public. After starting 4-1 and going on a losing streak, frustration will definitely be commonplace, but when a player calls someone out without mentioning a name, than something may be running a little deeper. The cornerbacks inability to stop any passing attack has probably led to some anger, but the defensive line don’t escape criticism either. Abraham, in particular, is having beyond a down year and needs to step up as well. On one hand its good that players are competitive and not accepting excuses on poor play, but anytime it becomes public there may be larger issues afoot on the defensive side of the ball.
6) How Big of an Uphill Playoff Climb do the Falcons Have?
If asked right now, many prognosticators would not predict a postseason for the Birds as it currently stands. A look at the Falcons chief competition for the two wild card spots:
Green Bay Packers
The Packers are already at 7-4 and really only have a legit chance at two losses: Baltimore next week @ Lambeau Field and @ Pittsburgh in a couple of weeks. Maybe a loss in Arizona.
Best Case – Lose all 3 to Ravens, Steelers, Cardinals….9-7
Likely – Lose two out of 3 between Ravens, Steelers, Cardinals…10-6
Possible - Lose only one more out of 5…..11-5
The Packers have won three straight including a win over Cowboys, but struggled a decent amount against the Lions today. Packers will likely take one spot.
New York Giants
The Giants just got whipped by the Broncos 26-6 and have lost 5 out of the last 6 games (guess who the win was against?), and are currently at 6-5. The Gaints automatically have the tie-breaker against us, so we basically are 2 games behind them. Next week vs. Cowboys, (vs. Eagles), (@ Redskins), (vs. Panthers), (@ Vikings). Who knows with this team. Cowboys aren’t playing fantastic right now either, the Eagles appear to be getting hot, and maybe Vikings are resting their players at that point after wrapping up a 1st Round Bye.
Best Case – Lose two between Cowboys, Eagles, Vikings….9-7
Likely – Lose one more between Cowboys, Eagles, Vikings….10-6
Possible – Sweep next Five……11-5
With the Giants schedule, its doubtful they’ll sweep, and likely will lose at least two games. The G-Men get the Eagles and Cowboys at home, but they own a head-to-head tie-breaker, so if we both go 10-6, they’re in.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles have been very inconsistent this year, whipping the Giants and Panthers, but losing to Cowboys, Raiders, and Chargers. Schedule hasn’t been the most difficult to this point. Upcoming games: (vs. Redskins), (@ Falcons), (@ Giants), (vs. 49ers), (vs. Broncos), (@ Dallas).
Best Case – If the Falcons lose to Philly, they’re done….period. But assuming a loss in three between Falcons, Giants, Cowboys, Broncos….9-7
Likely – Lose two between Falcons, Giants, Cowboys, Broncos….10-6
Maybe – Lose only one. 11-5 puts them out of reach.
The fact needs restating again that if the Falcons lose to Philly, the playoffs are OVER. If the Falcons were to only lose to Philly, for instance, the Eagles still would have a tie-breaker and would still put them over the Birds. Say the Eagles, Giants, or Cowboys somehow win the NFC East, the Falcons have already lost a head-to-head to two out of three NFC East teams.
Basically, to have any chance the Falcons will have to win 5 of the next 6 to even have a shot, and that still may not be enough. If its close at the end, the loss in Carolina will likely be the dagger in the Birds playoff chances. Falcons win that game and they’re tied with the Packers and Eagles for the Wild Card and control their own destiny with their game against the Eagles
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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290 comments Add your comment
Birdman
November 28th, 2009
9:49 am
FIRST
Birdman
November 28th, 2009
10:00 am
I think we got this game D3 . But keep Turner on the bench and let him be healed up more for next week.Yes it may be the dagger that puts them out (the Carolina game ) but I still ant counting them out a chance is still a chance. Sorry about the post I put up against our leaders but I was rally angry and upset at the time I trust things will work out if not this year then maybe next .
GO FALCONS …..HOW ABOUT 6 WINS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
realheavyd (Derrick)
November 28th, 2009
10:16 am
Read a preview of the Monday Night Football game this week between the Patriots and the Saints here:
http://isportsweb.com/sport/nfl/new-orleans-saints/
Matthew Stafford College Sanfransisco 49ers Green Bay Packers
November 28th, 2009
10:23 am
[...] Back in Dome vs. the Bucs | The Bird Cage [...]
About week, atlanta falcons, tampa bay buccaneers, defensive, tampa bucs, turner | Find me About
November 28th, 2009
10:35 am
[...] The Falcons return home to the friendly confines of the Georgia Dome after losing 4 of their last 5 games, all coming on the road. This team is in a pure must win mode through the rest of the season and really have no room for error whatsoever. …Read Original Story: Back in Dome vs. the Bucs – Atlanta Journal Constitution [...]
BT
November 28th, 2009
10:39 am
D3, Good job in summary of the situation.
IMO, the loss to the Giants was just as devastating as the Panthers loss, maybe more so?
The urgency on that game was ratcheted up because of the loss in Carolina and the Giants were at team that was so beatable with them in direct competition for the last WC slot and them having lost 4 straight.
A win in NY and they would have been in decent shape but with the defeat, comes desperation.
It amazes me some Falcons fans have already put this game (against the Bucs) in the Win column, even without their best player (in Turner) on the field.
They must see something in a team that has lost four of their five games (and they have not looked good doing it) that, I don`t see or I see something they don`t see or they just choose ignore the truth.
It`s not like the Falcons have a history of kicking the Bucs rear ends every time they see them either.
If the Falcons take this game as lightly as some fans?
They will go down in defeat with one of the most gutless showings in recent memory and the season will be over and as D3 pointed out, the regime of Dimitroff and Smitty will be put into a category of grave doubt.
Teej
November 28th, 2009
10:48 am
D3, Great post as always…we really appreciate your insights and thought that you put into your posts. I do feel that the Birds have an good chance to make the playoffs but am worried that even if we barely squeak in, that our lack of CB coverage and pass rush will be our undoing. Also, can someone besides TG, please make a play on offense. That dropped pass in the endzone was unacceptable. How many games could have been won by one of our receivers making a play on a “very” catchable pass? With all that said I still love my Birds…Go Falcons! Let’s not have to hear that lousy Tampa Bay chant this Sunday…Please….
Camarillo Outlets Maurice Stovall « All About The Politics
November 28th, 2009
11:00 am
[...] Back in Dome vs. the Bucs | The Bird Cage [...]
BT
November 28th, 2009
11:44 am
Some blogger`s might believe me to be a bit out of bounds with my critique of the Falcons?
I think, I have earned the right call it exactly the way the way I see it after being a fan of the team for 43 years.
It`s impossible for me to view this team outside of the entire content of the history of the Org.
Some might accept and make excuses for mediocrity?
I am way beyond that, as cold as it might be.
It really boils down to a simple yes or no question.
Do you have the mindset of being a Champion or not?
Right now, I don`t see it in the entire bunch in Flowery Branch.
Maybe they can change my mind over the last six weeks of the season?
I doubt it and some significant changes will be due to occur over the off season in the staff itself or expect more of what we have seen this season in the future.
Have a nice day.
Singletary
November 28th, 2009
12:35 pm
D3 – you are beast, man. The discussion rocks. Prolific in the face of paucity a la Bird Babe.
Why would we risk Burner this week? We need him fully healthy for Eagles & NOLA.
One small request on playoff analysis. I had to slowdown and re-read several because I got “lost among the THEYs.” This is not your elem teacher with a ruler or a paddle, but a request because I’m always eager to read the rest of what you write.
Bold prediction: Falcs win NOLA at home with J-Rock and Burner back at 85%. Who is with me?
BT
November 28th, 2009
12:56 pm
Singletary asks..why risk Burner this week?
Because, this weeks game is a must win and the most important game on the schedule.
Loose it because of not coming with every thing and the Philly and Saints games are not so important afterall.
Pete
November 28th, 2009
1:02 pm
We will not take them lightly but we still won’t be able to stop the pass. ZERO ability in our D backfield. Any competent QB will TORCH them.
This game will tell a lot.
Dawson Devitt (D3)
November 28th, 2009
1:11 pm
Great Last College Football Saturday Cagers!
Hope everyone had an excellent Thanksgiving week and is ready for some good football to finish it all off. College football is drawing to a close, and I can’t say that I’m that upset. Granted my Dawgs are beyond pathetic this year which plays a part, but by and large, this season has been pretty weak. The SEC and CBS have been praying, spooning, and fawning over the #1 FLA vs. #2 ALA SEC championship. IMHO, until college football gets some type of playoff they will continue to lose fans to the NFL. Anyway, I digress……..
Down – Fans are pretty down on the Birds of late, and rightly so. This season has taken a turn for the worst since Chicago. 4-1 to 5-5 is bad anyway you slice it.
Stupid Curse – I know a big deal is being made of the curse and I would love to see it broken just to be done with it, but personally, I really could care less about it. Yes, I am younger, but the misery and pathetic ownership and leadership of years gone by simply has nothing to do with today’s team/leadership/ownership. Is 9-7 really that much better than 8-8? Neither will go to the playoffs, so I could care less, but I would love to get rid of it as a conversation topic.
Singletary – Thanks for the props and I genuinely appreciate you mentioning my typos. I usually take great care of spacing out words and such, but after writing a bunch of stuff sometimes I just try to finish. I went back and fixed it, so it should read better.
BT – I understand your negative outlook my man. In theory, we should take care of business and finish on a strong note, but this year has been pretty disappointing simply for the reason that this team has not formed any identity, and I will say they’ve under-achieved across the board. No excuses. It’s hard to be really optimistic when you lose 4 out of 5 games. All of our wins have come against teams that currently have losing records. I have always been the biggest Coach Van Gorder defender, but if he doesn’t improve, then he should go back to college. Granted, there’s a lack of talent, but they should be better than they are.
Teej – Thanks for the props. Appreciate you joining us here in the Bird Cage.
Birdman – Go Falcons and we’ve gotta get this one, but that Panthers loss ended the streak of we “win the ones we should” under Coach Smith, so pretty nervoous.
Have a great saturday Cagers!!!!!!!!
falcon21
November 28th, 2009
1:15 pm
JS is capable of pulling the load. If Turner gets hurt again because he is not 100% then that would be the dumbest call of the season. You never overlook a team but you can’t put your best RB at risk. Hopefully we can get the win against TB without Turner and maybe he will be ready for Philly.
william cranman
November 28th, 2009
1:33 pm
Dawson, it’s the Tampa BAY Buccaneers not the Tampa Buccaneers. I’ve never heard anyone call them the Tampa Buccaneers since their inception in 1976. Other than that, great article. Go Falcons!
Big Ray
November 28th, 2009
1:48 pm
The secondary is a problem, has been a problem, it’s the hill Dimitroff and Co decided to go die on.
The D-line is every bit as bad (with one exception: Babineaux is easily the best of the bunch). Abraham is right about the secondary, but what exactly is HIS pro-bowl ass doing out there right now?
Elam sucks. I’m still angry with him. Mularkey needs to quit kissing the Blarney stone and run plays that make teams pay for doubling Roddy, cheating on Gonzalez, etc. That may mean going with guys like Booker, Weems, etc, rather than Michael Jenkins’ frustrating butt. I’d rather him drop a couple of second down catches and make the catch in the endzone, then make all the midfield catches, and drop one in the end zone.
Ryan seemed to calm down in the second half against NY. Whatever it was that did that for him, let’s get him some more of it.
Elam sucks. Did I mention that? Mike Smith might say he has confidence in him, but I also see they’re working other kickers out. Heh…yeah, I would be interviewing new guys, too. We don’t need somebody that wants to play “skip to my lou” on the way to a damn kick. WTF….
I hope Jerius Norwood can actually stay healthy. If he does, there are several plays we can run with him, many of them pass plays. This guy is a game-breaker. If only he can stay healthy.
Snelling is a HOSS. Love what he brings. Anybody seen Thomas Brown?
Big Ray
November 28th, 2009
1:49 pm
“Dawson, it’s the Tampa BAY Buccaneers not the Tampa Buccaneers. I’ve never heard anyone call them the Tampa Buccaneers since their inception in 1976.”
I just love people who come in and want to nitpick anything they can find.
D3, keep doing your thing. You’re the man.
Unca' Bob
November 28th, 2009
2:41 pm
Big Ray,
I’m with ya’ brother.
joe cox will be fine
November 28th, 2009
3:16 pm
We knew the D would suck, the lack of explosion on O was a bummer
Unca' Bob
November 28th, 2009
3:27 pm
Gamecocks 34- Tiggers 17. Go Cocks!!!
Unca' Bob
November 28th, 2009
3:32 pm
Oops. Got censored. Go Gamecocks!!!
The Real Falcon
November 28th, 2009
3:36 pm
This is a trap game. We have to feast on the Bucs and prepare for the Eagles the next week. I agree that if we lose to the Eagles we have no control over our destiny. A pretty bad situation in which to be!
GO FALCONS!!!
Sarah B
November 28th, 2009
5:40 pm
William, I’ve never be able to figure out why it is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Do the play in the water??? It is the City of Tampa not Tampa Bay.
6 - 10
November 28th, 2009
6:14 pm
Bucs – 17
Us – 10
It’s over folks.
darrell starks
November 28th, 2009
6:14 pm
I cant believe they did a story on sorry jenkins, a player who never get open and drops passes.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!
JJ
November 28th, 2009
7:01 pm
fishyfishyfishy, no fishing today vik.
BT
November 28th, 2009
7:56 pm
The Atlanta Falcons have swapped out running back Verron Haynes and wide receiver Troy Bergeron again.
Coming this time was Bergeron, who was promoted from the practice squad. He was active for one game earlier this season in Week 10 against Carolina. He is a former Arena League star with the Georgia Force.
Haynes was released to make room. He has competed in six games this season.
Running back Michael Turner is questionable for the game with a sprained ankle and is expected to be a game-time decision. Jerious Norwood is also questionable with a hip injury. By letting go of Haynes might signal the team expects at least one of the backs to play.
BT
November 28th, 2009
8:11 pm
Marty Booker is questionable with non injury issue, whatever that means and Brian Finneran is out for Sunday`s game.
Curtis Lofton is probable with knee and groin injuries and Sam Baker is also (as usual) listed as probable.
Wabe
November 28th, 2009
11:22 pm
Doubt Turner will go. Don’t think he should unless he’s at 100%.
I’m curious to see what the Falcons do differently on DEF. We’ve heard Owens will finally get some snaps on DEF, we’ll see what the kid has. I’m also thinking that we’ll see a lot more of Lawrence Sidbury up front to help generate a pass rush.
We’ll see what’s new tomorrow. Can’t wait.
I predict tomorrow to be a blowout.
28-7.
Go Falcons!
Box
November 28th, 2009
11:28 pm
CBrass,
How are you feeling about now?
sportaree
November 28th, 2009
11:35 pm
I don’t care if the score is 28-27 if we could win the game.
Sarah B
November 28th, 2009
11:38 pm
sport – me either…
Box
November 28th, 2009
11:38 pm
Wabe,
I hope that we do win big tomorrow, but don’t want to get too cocky. I hope that the Falcons brain trust do a lot of personnel mixing up to give some youngsters some reps against the Bucs.
sportaree
November 28th, 2009
11:50 pm
The last few weeks have been tough on all of us, it would lift our spirits somewhat to just see our team win a game.
Box
November 28th, 2009
11:50 pm
Sportaree,
I am hoping for a big game for the Birds, but don’t want to get cocky. I hope that the Falcons brain trust will shake up a few positions, and see what happens.
Box
November 28th, 2009
11:53 pm
Sportaree,
I hope for a big win, but don’t want to get too uppity. I hope that the Falcons brain trust will utilize a few new personnel schemes to give the youngsters some reps.
sportaree
November 29th, 2009
12:07 am
Box,
I agree. I would like to discuss your point tonight but its getting late. Church in the morning. God bless and goodnight.
Sarah B
November 29th, 2009
12:15 am
Night sport, hey Box…
Sarah B
November 29th, 2009
12:16 am
Gotta crash soon, headed to the Dome tomorrow.
sportaree
November 29th, 2009
12:20 am
Sarah B goodnight and be blessed.
falcon21
November 29th, 2009
12:21 am
WR, I’m not going to say anything, you guys have had a great season. We Dawgs needed this win but you guys have a lot more to play for.
Sarah B
November 29th, 2009
12:21 am
My Church, The GA Dome…
falcon21
November 29th, 2009
12:31 am
Sorry I jumped in before reading Cagers, I’m a happy Dawgs fan tonight. I haven’t been able to say that very much this season.
Ed
November 29th, 2009
1:23 am
Great work as always D3. I personally think the most important thing at this point is to have a winning season. If the playoffs happen super, but having a winning season breaks the 40+ year curse. More than that though, is to make sure we stay focused and on point in the “process” with out sights on next year. With another year of maturity and added help at the CB & LB positions we can be a legitimate playoff team next year.
GritzBlitzer
November 29th, 2009
1:30 am
I hope the Falcons are not looking ahead because the Bucs will make them pay (see the GT-UGA score!)
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:39 am
Box,
I’m on top of the world right now!! I’m just getting in. I’m going to go shower then come back and gloat a little then it will be on to the Falcons and this huge game they have later on today.
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
2:28 am
And the game ball goes to #8 Demaryius Thomas…oh wait he dropped it!! ROFL
“There’s a Buzz in the state of Georgia” ummmmmmm 30-24….Dawgs
“…can the Dawgs still be categorized as dogs, hell, even PETA wants them to use a fake dog, apparently because they haven’t been the real thing in quite some time.”
Replacement for today is named Russ and get this he’s 1-0 against the Nerds by a score of 30-24…
8 of the last 9!!!
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
2:44 am
Serious question. On Tech’s last possession why in the hell did they stop running the ball? Their OC pulled a Mike Bobo and went away from what was working for them.
Enough of that. I’ll see you guys and gals tomorrow as our Birds prepare to defend the Dome and get back on track against the Bucs.
Camarillo Outlets « The Buzz
November 29th, 2009
5:21 am
[...] Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Bucs, 11/29/09 | The Bird Cage [...]
John Waynesworld
November 29th, 2009
7:17 am
ALTAR! lol
Paybackisabitcheverydoghastheirdaywhatgoesaroundcomesaroundputthatinyourbeehiveandstuffit!!
Now on to Big Boy football…GO FALCONS!!!
BT
November 29th, 2009
7:24 am
I liked the Dawgs approach of just lining it up and coming straight after Tech, especially in the 1st half.
That established the tempo and served notice that, in order to win.
Tech was going to have kick the Dawgs ass and the Dawgs came ready for a real fight.
CBrass, as to the question of why did Tech pass on their last drive?
They had to, time was running short and the Dawgs were playing the run effectively.
Why Bobo elected to pass on 3rd and four, from (around) the Tech 35 with just over three minutes left in the game?
Just before the last missed FG.
That is a question, I can`t answer.
If, it had been me calling the plays, would have pulled a page from Paul Johnsons book and said, OK boys we have two downs to go get four yards, running the ball down their throats.
Sealing the game right then and there!
JJ
November 29th, 2009
7:33 am
WR, chin up buddy, Tech still has a championship to play for and a good bowl game. As a GSU grad, I root for both teams until they meet and then its which team would rep our state better in a national bowl game. So this yr I was rooting for tech, but next yr…it’s all GSU PANTHERS! not, lol. Back to the job site, ya’ll have a great day and go falcons!!!
WR
November 29th, 2009
9:14 am
Morning Cagers, congratulations to the Dawgs, CBrass for what its worth, I’m still trying to figure that one out, why is it that a team that runs the ball 95% of the time decides to become an aerial attack inside the opponents 45 yard line with over two minutes remaining, BT, Tech had time, Georgia hadn’t stopped the run, they had stopped the dive, remember the run is what got Tech within the 45 with over three minutes remaining, trust me in the stands we were all wondering the samething CBrass was, yeah Thomas had a big drop at the end but once again Tech found a way to beat UGA, that is with having the worse DC in the state of Georgia. It was close going into the game but Mr. Wommack decided he had to out do Mr. Martinez and honestly it wasn’t even close, go Tech. Yes Tech still has alot to play for, but judging by the defense, they won’t actually be playing for it, as much as they will just be watching and thats while being on the field.
BT
November 29th, 2009
9:29 am
WR, not meaning to get in an argument or anything but here is Johnsons quote..Johnson said he called four consecutive pass plays because he had just one timeout left.
WR
November 29th, 2009
10:03 am
As we here at the FFL weekend predictions center continue to recover from the best part of the UGA-Tech game, the brew, we comtemplate what was real and what appeared to be an illusion during last nights mauling. Illusion, seeing bull dawgs trample on a pack of bees like they were a pack of rockweilers, or pitbulls chasing poodles, no my bad that was real. Real, seeing Tech come out and show the world and especially UGA there days of ruling the state are over, wait that was an extreme illusion, apparently one more brew can’t hurt, maybe it was all a dream, maybe we passed out and we’re going to wake up and realize its Saturday morning, nope its sunday, time for some weekend FFL predictions, by the way anyone know Mr.Wommack’s address, we have a small package of goodies we would like to send him, and well a pink slip to, bump a slip, we’ll just send him a pink bulletin broad, maybe he could see that better, he damn well couldn’t see what was going on, on the field. Oh, back to why we’re here:
Game of the week, BT’s Talons against JJ’s WarEagles, two of the best teams in the FFL square off in an attempt to claim the #1 overall seed in the playoffs, after weeks of flexing their muscles against lesser opponents, the Talons run up against an offensive juggernaut missing its best player, doesn’t matter this week, the WarEagles become a blip on the radar for the Talons in a mild upset, sadly it just makes the Talons reload and prepare to annihilate the league in the playoffs.
The Arsenal(D3) vs. the Raptors(Unca’Bob) D3 is flying on cloud nine after witnessing that joke of a team, at least defensively, on North Ave., so the Arsenal go into this one without a coach and without much of a chance, wait didn’t they say that about the Dawgs, uh oh Raptors better watchout, naw, I think the Raptors have a coach with at least a clue when it comes to defense, so take the Raptors to win, and a high air balloon to find D3.
The Desparados(WR) vs the Bitches(Sarah B), as badly as UGA ran over Tech last night, I thought it only fitting to lendout my original team name, besides its been so long since WR had a victory you could consider this a game of desparation, sadly the Bitches are in the same boat which should make for an interesting battle, but take the Bitches, wait, take the Desparados, the confusion, I hate Tech, just playing, Desparados break in a new team name this week.
Gullah Geechees(Stirg) vs G Jeffersons(who knows, but he’s moving on up), the Geechees have been an erratic team all year, the capabilities are there week in and week out but you never know what team is going to show up, the Jeffersons have been moving up every since they changed their name from kickazz(quick note I stole this idea), there luck doesn’t change this week as the Jeffersons keep on moving up with a beatdown of the Geechees
TeepeeCityPosse(Seminole) vs the Makers(Lil Dave), after weeks of showing promise the Makers have fallen flat, after weeks of doing absolutely nothing the Posse is flat, someone gets off the turf this week and sorry Posse your from the god awful ACC where we prove week in and week out we can’t play with the big boys, did I just say that, well the truth hurts especially if your a fan of ACC football, hey basketball season is underway, but this is football and the Makers get back on track
WR
November 29th, 2009
10:09 am
BT, I know thats what Johnson said and did but honestly it still didn’t make since in my opinion,if they had the whole fill to go I understand, its not a quick strike offense, but all that playcalling did was force UGA to drop into coverage without the threat of the triple option which is Tech’s bread and butter, but he’s been a good HC all year, I’m just second guessing it, definitely nothing against CPJ, but Wommack is worst then Martinez as a DC, if Martinez goes Wommack better be sitting next to him.
Samuel
November 29th, 2009
10:37 am
THE DEFENSE IS HORRIBLE, VANGORDER HAS TO SHARE THE BLAME FOR THIS DISASTER.COACH SMITH AND VANGORDER HAVE A HISTORY AND A CONFORT ZONE WITH EACH OTHER. MAYBE DIMITROFF NEEDS TO SHAKE THINGS UP THIS OFF SEASON.
Coop
November 29th, 2009
11:06 am
D3 – Great article. Agree on every point. I said during the draft, that I feared our lack of a big body at DT. It has proven to be a major obstacle our D can’t overcome.
I also said, @CAR was a must win. Many said it was too soon for must wins, but now we’re in the position I feared. I know you play one game at a time, but you have to manage your schedule. Losing to CAR put us in desperation in NYG. Now we’re in must win the rest of the season and STILL might not make the playoffs.
Unless we get lucky, we’ll lose to NO and PHIL and will have to win the last 3 to get to 9 wins. The playoffs died in CAR.
hiramsaint
November 29th, 2009
11:44 am
derrick……….. nice article, now go take piano lessons
Frank Wren
November 29th, 2009
12:16 pm
Caleb King just scored again
hiramsaint
November 29th, 2009
12:20 pm
anamarie sais bucs by 7. matty slush throws for 150 yds, 5 picks ,1 td. thtas my daughter and so far this season she’s about 87.375 % accurate. bye bye birdies… thats also her favorite song!
John Waynesworld
November 29th, 2009
12:20 pm
KICK THE BALL OFF ALREADY!
Michael Turner is active for today’s game but will he play?
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
12:49 pm
Michael Turner’s a go today.
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
12:51 pm
JWW,
I hope not. I think Mike is not trying to rush himself back. Snelling can carry the load as he displayed last week.
playmeortrademe
November 29th, 2009
12:56 pm
What’s sad is that the Falcons SHOULD be 7-3 staring down another 11 win season, but blown kicks and drops cost us at least two games. Remember, this team led the Saints 14-0 in their house and couldn’t hold it and had a chance to put the Cowboys away early and didn’t. The only real butt-kicking has been the Patriots.
John Waynesworld
November 29th, 2009
1:04 pm
KICKOFF! About dang time.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:05 pm
A timeout on the second play of the game…
Not good.
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:05 pm
Not a good start!!!
John Waynesworld
November 29th, 2009
1:08 pm
Jenkins hung on! A good start.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:11 pm
Dome looks empty.
Let’s see what kind of changes Smith and BVG made on the defensive side of the ball.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:14 pm
Redman warming up?
Not good at all.
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:15 pm
I hope Ryan is ok!!!
John Waynesworld
November 29th, 2009
1:17 pm
You might have noticed that our 3rd string QB, JPW, is inactive for this game. I wonder who is backing up Redman.
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:19 pm
What the hell what the hell what the hell!?!?!?!?
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:21 pm
BVG seems to be dialing up some serious blitz packages.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:22 pm
3rd down and 14, we rush four.
Sure, we got them off the field – but that had a little more to do with their guy dropping a catchable pass that would’ve got them a first.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:25 pm
We’re in a very bad situation here.
LRD
November 29th, 2009
1:26 pm
This is looking a bit ugly… and all we need now is a QB Controversy. Man the injury bug just cant leave the Falcons alone this year
(hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!)
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:32 pm
let go birds
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:32 pm
let see what redman can do
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:33 pm
Turner looks to be ok. Not sure if he’s 100%, but he’s definately looks good enough to be back.
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:34 pm
yeah maybe they install necks on our comerbacks
LRD
November 29th, 2009
1:34 pm
Wabe; Dome does seem rather empty today.
Like the throwback uniforms though.
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:37 pm
hmmm looks like we are moveing the ball better with redman than ryan…. last last 2 weeks i got flame for saying he should be playing
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:37 pm
LRD,
I have a couple of friends there and they said it is empty in there. I guess losing 4 of 5 caused some people to lose hope. I
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:40 pm
WHAT ABOUT THAT THROW !!!!!!!!!!
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:41 pm
Cbrass it still early but u have to adnit redman look way better than ryan
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:44 pm
Wow, Elam made it.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:45 pm
Way better than Ryan?
Common now RonB, there’s a reason the guy is a backup and not starting. We had Redman start games for the Falcons a couple years back after the Mike Vick situation, did we not?
The guy’s a good backup – that’s it.
LRD
November 29th, 2009
1:46 pm
Elam made it.. woo hooo..and Jenkins with nice 1st down catch…(wait it is a full moon tonight..right>?)
CBrass: I wish I would have gotten back in town last night instead of late this am.. been nice to pick up a ticket and head down there.
Greg
November 29th, 2009
1:46 pm
Not half way through the 2nd yet, and ATL QBs sacked four times already, including the one that knocked our starter out of the game. Do we even have an O line, or is it just a bunch of guys they pulled out of the parking lot before the game?
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:48 pm
Wabe,
Do not entertain idiotic comments like that. Just leave it along.
CBrass
November 29th, 2009
1:48 pm
LRD,
It was a great game indeed.
30-24
Greg
November 29th, 2009
1:50 pm
Add to that the fact that Falcons have a secondary ranked 29th in the NFL, and a D ranked 28th overall, and it is pretty clear that this is not a football team that is playing anywhere near it’s potential.
Keep in mind that the Bucs have only won one game this year, and so far, they are pushing the Falcons around. 8 or 9 yards each catch, and Freeman isn’t being pressured at all, unlike Redman, who is making throws despite the fact he is surrounded by Bucs constantly.
Only a matter of time before Cadillac breaks one… he is getting some big holes.
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:53 pm
WAbe i dint say he the long term answer but that it may be good for ryan to sit and watch for awhile. All we hear is that Ryan is the next big thing , but what if there wrong…. the same thing i hear about ryan. we heard in detoit about joey harrinton. he was here for 4 year and never was worth a hills of beans… ryan is not joey or is he
Greg
November 29th, 2009
1:54 pm
Have to call a timeout coming out of a commercial time out. The announcers on Fox are now starting to make fun of how disorganized the Falcons appear to be.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:55 pm
As far as the DEF is concerned, it’s plain and simple, the front 4 has to generate a better pass rush. Blitzing is an option, but a risky one -and against the better QB’s in this league – we haven’t been as successful when blitzing because our DB’s aren’t up to the challenge.
We’re looking drop dead horrible today.
All 3 timeouts have been wasted and we’ve got 9:17 left here in the 2nd quarter. You’d think this team would come out with a “no non-sense” kind of mentality and put this thing away early knowing the situation they’ve put themselves in this season.
RONB4164
November 29th, 2009
1:55 pm
Cbrass are you related to ryan…..
BT
November 29th, 2009
1:56 pm
It`s clear the Falcons have underestimated the Bucs and have entered the game thinking like lots of their fans assuming this was going to be an easy win.
Wabe
November 29th, 2009
1:57 pm
Chris Redman needs to understand that he can’t take hits like that…