Atlanta Falcons: Birds Escape vs. Panthers
No Caption Needed (AJC)
It was an ugly, ugly win, but the Atlanta Falcons stayed perfect with their come from behind win against the division rival Panthers. Even though it wasn’t pretty, the Falcons showed some serious resolve in finding a way to win when they weren’t playing their best. The bottom line is that the Falcons are 4-0 and they beat a division rival primed for a good game after being embarrassed on Thursday Night Football and having 10 days to prepare for them. A look at the miraculous win…………
Matty Ice
It’s been said a million times over, but the cool-as-ice quarterback willed his team to win against absolutely impossible odds. Having to drive 99 yards in less than a minute with no timeouts is the stuff legends are made of. Backing up to the end of his endzone, he chunked the ball 60-65 yards in the air and Roddy White made a huge catch. He engineered the drive against impossible odds and this one has to rank up there with one of the best. The guy is taking the step before our eyes and did all this despite getting beat to death and sacked 7 times.
Roddy Clutch
Roddy Clutch (AJC)
Julio Jones has gotten a lot of the hype about the next great wide receiver, but Roddy White is the one who to turn to when you need to make a play. Julio Jones has gotten the TD catches to date, but Roddy finally got both the yards, touchdowns, and huge plays. Not only did he help rescue the game with his amazing catch, he also had a fantastic touchdown catch where he had to adjust mid-air to haul in the pass. Jones may be the future,
The Second Matty Ice
Enough can’t be said about someone who may get overlooked on an offense loaded with weapons and that’s Matt Bryant. Matt Ryan already has the Matty Ice nickname, but Matt Bryant has been absolutely money in clutch situations since he’s been here. Luckily, he hasn’t been needed for a game-winning field goal until Sunday, but making those unbelievable comeback drives mean nothing if your kicker can’t finish the deal.
The OL Nightmare Returns
Was it just a mirage or was there some credence to the offensive line actually looking better in the first 3 games? Right now, statistics have to fall on the side of it being just one bad game against a very hungry defense. And maybe it had something to do with the Panthers scheme seeing something in their 10 days of preparation to confuse Ryan and the offense. But this much is certain: it was a complete nightmare on Sunday, leading to 7 sacks and bringing all those bad feelings about the offensive line roaring back in terrible fashion. Ryan was sacked almost double in one game (7 sacks) that he had in the first three (4).
Sam Baker has always been the lightning rod of criticism, but the left side of the line is doing OK with Baker having a good year and Blalock always being the solid rock with little to no issues. The problem, as many all knew, was the right side of the OL. It comes from a somewhat surprising place in Tyson Clabo. To be sure, Garrett Reynolds is getting the job done but is surely not dominant in the least and still doesn’t project as a long-term option. Clabo has given up a majority of the sacks this year all on his own and has looked downright terrible all year, going back to preseason. Maybe it’s his age catching up or maybe he’s just missing a solid force next to him at right guard, but he’s simply not getting the job done. They made a change with Sam Baker last year, how long will they give Clabo? Lamar Holmes looked just fine in preseason and many Cage members would love to see Clabo move inside to RG (where his size could potentially dominate) and Reynolds move back to his old natural position of right tackle. Todd McClure hasn’t been the worst, but he had some problems on Sunday, as many fans thought would happen as the season wore on. Is the nightmare here to stay or was it just one bad game?
Time for an OL Change?
Gotta Stop the Run Better (AJC)
As mentioned above, the offensive line has to get the benefit of the doubt so far in that they did a pretty good job in the first three weeks (even though their run blocking was weak). However, how long will the coaching staff give this OL before a change is made? Last year, Sam Baker got some opportunities in different spots but was yanked in favor of Will Svitek and Joe Hawley, respectively. Same goes for Garrett Reynolds. As fans discussed in the preseason, the likelihood was very great that the same offensive line with so many problems in 2011, would start exactly the same in 2012, with literally no changes made. Sure enough, that’s been the case. If this becomes a trend, fans will at least want to see something change on the OL, including getting looks at Peter Konz and Lamar Holmes, and maybe moving Clabo inside to right guard?
Worries at LB
The Panthers exploited one of the Falcons biggest weaknesses in defending the run. The option-give that Newton did was hard for the Birds to stop. Their outside linebackers, Sean Weatherspoon and Stephen Nicholas, have been outstanding, but they’ve operated mostly in the nickel defense. The base 4-3 defense include middle linebacker Akeem Dent and he didn’t have the best of days on Sunday. It’s way too early to make a call on Dent and his future since he’s basically a rookie getting his first live snaps, but it does need to be addressed. Throw in the fact that the Falcons are razor thin at linebacker anyway and it may be time to take a look at one of the defensive ends, like Kroy Biermann, at OLB, allowing Spoon or Nicholas to move inside.
Trap Game or Cause for Slight Concerns?
This game had trap written all over it. The Falcons were flying high. The Panthers were humiliated on national TV. Their sophomore Super(interception)Man was called out. The Panthers had 10 full days to prepare for the Falcons. The Birds had a short week in traveling back from the west coast. It may not have been a trap game, but the Falcons surely weren’t at their best and the Panthers knew the importance. On the positive side, the Falcons won a game ugly and that’s all that matters.
However, potentially on the negative side, as longtime Bird Cage member Unca’ Bob said, we may be benefitting from a pretty easy spot of the schedule. We’ve played and won 4 games, but 3 of them have been against the roundly considered weak AFC West. The other was against an NFC South team with 2 losses to show, one of them being a blowout. You can’t control your schedule and the Falcons have won the only games they’ve played, but this game brought many fans back to Earth a little bit and realized there are a ton of areas to improve upon.
Turner the Stud
Turner the Stud (AJC)
Often beleaguered Falcons running back is showing an rebirth the last two weeks with excellent performances against San Diego and Carolina Panthers. Turner has made some fans (heavily including this author) to eat some major crow. And it will happily be done. Turner may not be the best fit for the offense going forward, but he’s still a major cog on this team filled with explosive offensive weapons.
Sometime You Have to Win Ugly
The title says it all and an ugly win is better than the prettiest of losses or as some call them “moral victories.” The Falcons played their worst football of the year in all aspects and they met a team playing with a major hunger knowing the importance and having plenty of time to prepare. The Falcons found a way to win and that’s a testament to this team’s character in finding ways to win and special seasons are made up of those.
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848 comments Add your comment
Coop
October 4th, 2012
10:49 am
SW – Concur. My comments on the 4-3 were referencing the first couple of games where teams came out with 3 or 4 WR sets and we lined up in nickel packages… no MLB on the field. Carolina ran more base packages that forced us into a 4-3 set. Lot more Dent.
I like a lot about our D, but just like our OL, we have neglected a long term, strategic plan… unless Konz, Johnson, Reynolds, and Hawlyer are more than backups.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
10:51 am
Totally concur on Walker and his plays. The DL effort IMPROVES when he is on the field. That is a fact; seen it with my own eyes in two games as I view from 209, brother.
I will give love where it is do. I was a major Jerry basher but dude has really worked hard and shows signs. Babs is the old plow horse; just goes about his biz with diligence.
Sid and Bier Truck are the primary reasons I say it was a mistake NOT to go to the 3-4. Those guys are BEASTS, BEASTs ready to be UNLEASHED in a 3-4 scheme. If you think JJ Watt is a beast, just close your eyes and imagine Bier Truck coming off the edge.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
11:05 am
Johnson is a MASH unit until he proves otherwise to me. Hawley and Reynolds were never really given the REAL chance to show what they could in their primary positions (MHO). Both lost a considerable amount of tutorial work and practice to the lockout last year. Hawley, thrown to the wolves when Mud Duck was hurt, was a raw as Publix T-Bone. He did he best he could given the circumstances. The WHOLE line, minus Blalock, was a train wreck last season due to a lack of continuity and clearly, a lack of QUALITY coaching effort.
Until last week, the same group of guys, minus Hawley, has looked like a group of All Pros. Well, all but Clabo clearly. Holmes was not brought her to the be the left tackle of the future. Homes may need to become the RT of the moment.
The Konz and Holmes picks. Said it then, will say it now. We were snowed!! They were depth picks from the start. The high selection was meant to make us think that we were addressing the CRITICAL issues on our OL. So far, they are doing a fine job warming those benches. And Unles we plan to cut someone next spring, I do not see them on the field anytime soon.
One more nugget….if this OL gets MR2 to the NFC title game, as it is currently set up, do you really think they will implode it? Sam Baker will be back (company discount) because the team will NOT pay premium dollar for a premium LT next year if he is out there. Besides, they can’t. Why? MR2, with each impressive week, is making his stock rise HIGHER and HIGHER.
If he wins an MVP award, which is possible, MR2’s deal will surplant that of Drew Brees and the impending deal that Aaron Rodgers will soon get from Green Bay. Atlanta is about to have a $100-115 million dollar man. And that my friends will change the nature of the game.
But I will save that for another day….I did warn you about it. The Transition and the Cap. You were warned, remember?
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
11:16 am
Coop, back to line back for a moment.
JJ had this dude (Kendricks) and I had Nigel Bradham from FSU on our big boards as you recall.
Both could have been used as interior presence to fortify the rushing attack. They were that solid. But in the case of both, to maximize the talent, we would have had to adjust to a 3-4.
I would have moved Spoon inside with the Bier Truck as my interior LB corps. That would have been one impressive interior presence; MUCH improved speed and coverage skills in the interior of the field as both guys are quick, rangy, and skilled in coverage. That would have allowed me to use Nicholas and Bradham/Kendrick on the outside where their tenacity and blitz skills would have been unleashed.
You also would have had a full compliment of young, interchangeable linebackers that would have been fully capable of playing in either the 3-4 or 4-3, truly giving Nolan major options in scheming.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
11:16 am
Coop
I do not know that the Bucs, Cowboys, and Raiders will take advantage of anything. Remember that Denver/San Diego/KC had a decent running game, too. The REAL weakness is going against running QBs like Cam, who can run the option with the running back. RG3 is most likely the only QB on the teams you list that will really hash our running defense. Vick is more of a pocket passer now, who runs out at times(not the same guy he used to be).
Let me clear something up:
Our run defense is exposed against RUNNING QBs that use the option. They still do well against passing QBs who hands the rock to a RB.
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This is still a passing league and almost every team does not run the option.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
11:20 am
http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/8434708/the-numbers-never-lie-ravens-fueled-their-defense
Great article on Flacco being overrated and even Ryan gets some love, too.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
11:27 am
A very interesting FFL season thus far with a major ACC tilt on schedule this weekend.
I wonder where my ACC brother is with his weekly predictions. I wonder if he is shocked with the work of the Posse thus far. Or like FSU, UGA, and the Falcons, do the pundits feel we are just thrills of the moment?
A lot of football ahead…but at least for now, the Posse will cherish these unchartered waters. Oh yeah; it feels good to be the king (or a least be in the royal court).
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
11:33 am
BL, great piece on Flacco. MR2 is what we that have followed him for some time knew he would be. A cold blooded, focused assassin aka Bruce Willis in the Jackal.
Question: Does the NFL have a Richard Gere to stop him?
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
11:49 am
SW
I appreciate your incite, but those were more rhetorical questions. You know why? Let me explain.
I am sorry to say, but most fans, like the media… are very knee-jerk in their reactions. They do not wait for trends, or look at the numbers in things. I believe it’s because we are so darn impatient. After one bad game, everyone is quick to point flaws… but are they REALLY flaws? Sam Baker has made ALL OF US eat crow so far this season. Let the coaches do their jobs.
Anyways, let me rebuttal.
1. One, as I have stated before, defensive schemes from new coordinators takes usually a year to really set into a defense. So, I agree there will be mishaps and hiccups throughout the year. That’s why I stated a 11-5 record. YET, this does not negate how well our secondary is playing, which is darn amazing. I did not expect it. But, I digress, let’s focus on the run defense. I agree that the run defense need help. We agree there, yet I am not worried about it. Why? Mike Nolan. He is not like any DC we had before. He will adjust and utilize our talent to make them decent.
Remember, like I have stated before, we only got whipped last weeks because of the OPTION with Cam. Regular running games will not be as potent. Regular QBs cannot run like Cam(except for RG3 and MAYBE Vick).
We only lost Curtis Lofton from our previous defense who was stout against the running. Is he that big a difference? Let’s look at the Saints who are LAST against the run this year. I think we are giving him too much credit. The WHOLE unit stops the run, not just the MLB. I challenge you to look at the film and realize the times we got gashed on the runs versus Cam was on blitzes and poor gap discipline. Placing the blame solely on Dent is a cop out.
As for your defensive pass rush comment… I can only shake my head. They already have 10 sacks this year as a UNIT. Remember what Mike Nolan said? He does not care about on players having 8 sacks, he wants the UNIT to have multiple. The defensive rush has been stellar compared to previous years. The only difference is that we were going against CAM NEWTON, and he made us miss/ran out of the pocket. Most QBs will not hurt us like this. Also, end play is overrated. You want the tackles to collapse the pocket backwards, so the QB cannot step up to pass, which leads to more INTs. How many do we have this year again? I am sorry. This is knee-jerk at its finest.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
11:54 am
2. We played against two better defenses than Carolina–Denver/San Diego. They were not even close to pressuring Matt Ryan like the kitties. I really think is was a bad game, that’s all. That’s why I will wait till next game to see a TREND. I refuse to call for offensive line heads because of one bad game. Green Bay’s offensive line got rocked by the Seahawks, then had a solid performance against the Saints. So far, the offensive line had three good games, one bad game. I seriously doubt it’s code red, Matt Ryan will have to be bootleg me-gee yet. Now if they have a bad game against the Redskins, we have a legit reason to worry.
PoolerSpirit
October 4th, 2012
11:56 am
Big Ray… Glad to hear you’re being released… and that the surgery went well… You should be able to find my phone number if you want to get in touch… and if you end up having to stay an extra day, I can at least bring you something to read!
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
11:59 am
3. I agree with you here, but I believe the transition will be complete by the end of the year with our current unit. I really feel, as does Matt Ryan, that they will make noise THIS YEAR. Yeah, the Falcons have flaws, every NFL team does. Yet, I rather our flaws be against the run game(defensively) than passing the ball. I do agree with your offensive line assessment, though. I would love to see a ZBS.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
12:14 pm
BL,
Nothing but love and respect as always. Let me see if I can add a little more to my points.
First, the pass rush. When I talk about the issue with the pass rush, perhaps I should make my issue of contention be the need for a more consistent nature of the pass rush. At times, it seems that the rush or the lack there of takes extended periods off. Again, I have no problem with where the sacks come from. What I am concerned about is the lack of a consistent pressure element.
You are correct in that any scheme takes time to fully implement. I do see improvements over last year. Attitude is first and foremost, the most important one noted. And things are looking up far more than they are looking down. But as we both agree, work remains.
The Lofton factor, in my MHO, was a mistake. Yes, he apparently did make that much of a difference in the ATL interior rush defense. For it is definately not on par with what it was last season with him on the field. Dent is not and was not, MHO, ready to step into the position. A one year tender would have at least given him the time, under Nolan, for a realistic assessment of his abilities. And it would have provided a better element of stability in the corps. Just my thoughts.
You are correct. To totally blame Dent is perhaps too easy. But there is an issue with the interior presence of the defense. And when we review the tape, the lack of a presence would lead one to first and foremost look for the party that should be in that area. In most cases, under the 4-3 scheme, that should be the MLB. Nolan is experimenting with multiple flex options on defense thus far…will give you that. But there needs to be attention placed on the area that typically is defended by a presence of a MLB. But in fairness, I will continue to monitor it and I thank you for keeping me real, honest, and attentive.
End play can not be overrated, in my HO, if we have invested so much in it over the past three years. We “aggressively” went after Edwards and re-invested (though limited) in Abraham. The skill sets have declined over the last two years; we assume it was a lack of scheme. In this transitional year, we will see. To be determined.
Side note: But your point is noted and is actually a pro for my thoughts on transition to the 3-4 where speed and younger talent can be integrated into the scheme sooner rather than later.
In my humble opinion, the interceptions are up primarily due to a MUCH more disciplined play by our defensive backs. I truly will give credit there to the coaching staff and the work the men have put in in the secondary. They truly are making plays and making a difference back there.
Will grant you that the San Diego defense was not as impressive as years past. Denver was supposed to have a elite pass rush capacity; the Falcons did a marvelous job keeping it in check. Agreed. But going back to last year, Clabo has had issues. And given the trend that has continued, preseason and into the regular season with him, it is a reason to be concerned. Whether injury or whatever, something is not right with Tyson Clabo. And it is not just one game. He has looked bad all season long. He has been “suspect” and it caught up with him big time on Sunday.
Agreed. It needs monitoring. But I disagree with you. It is a pending Code Red if we can not correct it and do so soon.
Again, thanks for keeping me in check. I always appreciate a good teacher.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
12:25 pm
It would appear to me that the OL went back to the more power presence than the psuedo ZBS reflections we saw in weeks before. Will monitor that this week again the Redskins.
The speed and “strength” of Johnson was simply overwhelming as he detroyed Clabo.
It is an issue of immediate concern when your right tackle gives up FIVE sacks in one game. And it is a concern when five sacks represent nearly 50% of your season total to date.
Not in panic mode but it needs to be addressed. And with Clabo, there is a trend emerging that is a little nervous, especially when Smitty considers him the OL’s most consistent element.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
12:26 pm
Charles Johnson is a good DE but he is not that damned good.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
12:32 pm
Will at least give the team credit…they made the needed adjustment when it counted. In that last minute, on the 59 pass play to RW, the Falcons used THREE people on Charles Johnson.
TG88 and HD83 were moved over to assist Clabo with pass protection in that situation. A move that proved to be very, very critical to that pass play.
waynester
October 4th, 2012
1:01 pm
Seminole Warrior
HCMS referred to Clabo having a problem with his hip–which can really reduce your power and maneuverability–I’d be curious to know just what the problem really is(as would D-line coaches everywhere). Charles Johnson is good enough that he was our first choice over Ray Edwards but CAR gave him a mega-deal leaving us with a player who has yet to show up in a major way.
I know it could all fall to pieces any time but this has been an awesome month of ball for DawgaNoles(TM) and Falcon fanatics–just keep it going guys…..
John Waynesworld
October 4th, 2012
1:44 pm
Wow, it is impossible to compare C. Johnson to “Who” Ray Edwards. Johnson is a perennial double-digit sackmaster who comes to play and if they are shutting him down during a game, that means they are double-teaming him. “Who” Ray is a mystery, a question mark, and nothing else besides a complete waste of millions of dollars. Smitty says he is a good run stopper, well, so is a a properly placed file cabinet on the line of scrimmage. “Who” Ray is a fraud, a charlatan, a shape-shifting piece of beef on a hook. Jason Babin, who Dimitroff passed over and let Philly take for less money the day before he paid Edwards, had 18 sacks in 2011 and he already has 2.5 in the first four games for the Eagles. “Who” Ray had 3.5 sacks in 2011 and he has ZERO sacks this season. But “Ray’s good at defending the run”. says Smitty. Right. A perfect epitaph for a failed pass rusher.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
1:50 pm
Waynester, will give you those points. If it is a hip issue and it clearly is impacting his power and range of motion as you suggest, then CMS is a damned fool in letting this be a potential risk to both Clabo AND MR2. Get dude evaluated, treated/rested if needed, or make a move. You can not roll the dice and risk a potential season changing injury to your QB or RB on the possible iffy health of your RT. Johnson is a guard and Reynolds is a natural tackle.
Chuck J. was the highest rated DE coming out that season having posted a monster season prior to free agency. That was his big season, the 2010 year. Like Edwards, Johnson was the benefical one having played next to a superior pass rusher. Johnson had Peppers opposite him until the 2010 season in which he (Johnson) broke out. Likewise, Edwards had Allen opposite him until he left for ATL.
Since getting their deals and becoming the “man”, they both have underachieved. Records review show that they have one or two monster breakouts (still waiting, Ray) and then disappear.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
1:53 pm
JWW, well stated in the description of Ray Edwards. But with the exception of 2010, Johnson is a very serviceable #2 defensive end. He has averaged five sacks per year in his six year career outside of the breakout 2010 year. Serviceable, yet. Sackmaster….still emerging.
Totall agree on missing with the Jason Babin potential move. That one did in fact get away from us.
SeminoleWarrior
October 4th, 2012
2:01 pm
Cocoa Mel moment…
Going to test my waters tonight for the first time. Hope the young man plays well for me.
Check out the USC versus Utah game tonight. DT Star Lotulelei will be on display for the Utes.
A 6′4, 325 massive presence in the middle at NT/DT, this guy is on the Cocoa Mel’s scouting radar as I seek to find ways to shore up the interior defensive presence.
darrell starks
October 4th, 2012
2:53 pm
Changes on the OL ?
many ways the Falcons could go with this.
Lamar Holmes play LT and move Baker to RT
OR
Play Konz at RG and Move Reynolds to RT
Clabo is not looking good at all.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
October 4th, 2012
2:56 pm
My game so far on OL go to Reynolds for now, i was the the first to dog him out before season started, but i have to admit he have step up 2 the plate the first 4 games.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Paddy O
October 4th, 2012
2:57 pm
well, I’m not buying the knee jerk marginalization argument – 7 sacks is horrific. Plus, we have had extended problems with the middle of the field, after the initial start of the play, being left open like the Red Sea and Moses; I never thought Lofton did a great job on the run – he frequently got caught inside the plane of the scrimmage line (overcommitted to gap penetration prematurely), thus allowing one of 2 possible holes to be used by RB or scrambler. AT this point, we still have that lingering problem – perhaps have DeCoud provide Red Sea protection?
Big Ray
October 4th, 2012
2:59 pm
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-blog/2012/10/04/asante-samuel-says-the-defense-has-a-long-way-to-go/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_falcons_blog
Interesting. I do like the fact that Samuel is being direct to the point of harsh….
darrell starks
October 4th, 2012
3:00 pm
Baker have played okay so far this season but he continue to get bull rush back towards the Ice man, making Matt Ryan sometime uncomfortable in the pocket.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!
Big Ray
October 4th, 2012
3:08 pm
Not agreeing on the Lofton factor – he’s a great run stopper, but not so good in the pass rush, even less so in coverage. This was about money and a position that wasn’t going to get but so much use. Are we having trouble against the run? Yes, we are. But look at other positions…I’m just not seeing it, especially with the speed and sudden-ness of Nicholas and Spoon out there. Dent isn’t ready, we all see that…don’t know if he just needs some seasoning or what…what I do know is we should move to a 3-4 defense next season…just sayin’….
The DE play is obvious, as SW says. I hate to be wrong about Ray Edwards, but it’s clear that I am just plain wrong about him. Dude is a decent run stopper, gives us not much as far as pass rush.
Biermann looks more and more like a natural 3-4 LB every day. Love to have him playing standing up.
Big Ray
October 4th, 2012
3:10 pm
I just about don’t give a damn what Clabo’s problem is. Hip, head, heart….whatever. He’s the weakest link on this line, and prior to 2011, you would have never sold me on that idea.
Nolan will get more of what he wants with this defense next season. It will happen via draft and/or free agency, count on it.
Wabe
October 4th, 2012
3:11 pm
Regarding the O-Line, the trend is there…
It’s been there since last season. I know we’re employing a different blocking scheme and what not, but, considering we’re coming into this season with O-Line questions, every game is fair game as far as ‘analysis’ is concerned. I’ll admit, the O-Line has held up well overall. But, there’s no denying at this point that the right side of this line is suspect. In week 1, it was Clabo who allowed that first sack. Week 2 against the Broncos, it was Dumervil coming around Clabo to get to Ryan late in that 4th quarter. And then this past week, it was Clabo again who was getting beat up by Charles Johnson.
Now, I don’t consider that knee-jerk. I don’t remember if he gave up a sack against SD, but I know he’s given up a sack in 3 of the 4 games we’ve played this season. I consider that a trend, and that points to a vulnerability on the right side of the line.
I have no problem with your approach BL. It’s not as though your speaking outrageous when you try to calm the tension and concern, because you’re right, it is one game. I think you make a valid point about the run defense and how we should wait and see how this facet of the defense is addressed. Mainly because Smitty’s done a good job during his tenure to secure the run defense. But, I can’t say the same about the O-Line. The O-Line isn’t working with the same leash. They came into this season with something to prove after last season’s playoff debacle. And although they’ve played well for the most part, you can’t fault any fans for throwing up the red flags after a performance like we saw.
icons downloads
October 4th, 2012
3:34 pm
In ut something is. Thanks for an explanation.
D3
October 4th, 2012
3:57 pm
SW / BL — I’d like to jump in on the run defense debate if you don’t mind. I’d have to agree with Big Lou on this one. I think that Dent is getting a little unfair criticism so far. I do think he’s seeing some major growing pains, but if you think about it, he really hasn’t been featured that much until it’s necessary. He barely saw the field in KC and didn’t even touch it vs. Denver & Peyton. I can’t remember how much he played against San Diego, but knowing how much Rivers likes to pass, probably not that much. So essentially, this was Dent’s main playing experience and he had to deal with (s)Cam and a good running attack (should be one of the best with (s)Cam, Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert).
I think it’s a little premature to call him a bust or a reach after basically one game. And here’s the kicker of them all. Remember that former Pro Bowler we signed as insurance that was looking to make a comeback and looking good before he tore his pec muscle? Remember Lofa Tatupu? Injuries are a part of the game, but TD did hedge his bets with Dent/Losing Lofton with Tatupu ( a very low risk, potentially high reward pickup).
I mean sure, I would have loved to keep Lofton as much as anyone, but I think that TD made a calculated decision based on money, other looming free agents coming up (Spoon, Ryan, etc) and where Nolan would be taking this defense and Lofton simply was an expensive luxury we didn’t need. I’ll agree that Dent, at the time, was a bit of a reach, but we thought the same thing about Corey Peters Throw in the fact that Mark Richt-coached players are usually always under-developed (check out Geno Atkins and Blair Walsh among tons of others) and I guess he gets the benefit of the doubt for now. I do also agree that we need some serious infusion at OLB since Nick is heading to 30 soon and Spoon is the only main LB stud we got.
Also, (and I know this is a little snarky) looking at the Saints with Curtis Lofton at MLB is officially the worst defense in the NFL doesn’t help either. To be honest, I’ll take a weaker run defense in exchange for a more aggressive, takeaway defense that defends the pass well.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
3:59 pm
Wabe
Of course, I understand that fans will have some sort of trepidation after Sunday. It’s natural. I’ll concede on Calabo, since the sacks have come from his side. Yet, Ryan still had good protection the previous three games. They were getting honorable mentions for Oline of the month before Carolina.
I am glad you agree on the defense. Let’s just say I rather have an issue defending the run, then pass.
SW
Your points on the Oline is solid. I just want to give the Redskins game preformance before red flags.
We will just have to agree to disagree on the Curtis Lofton deal. Saints are last in the league in defending the run, just saying. If Lofton was that important for us, the Saints wouldn’t be that bad. I still think its lack of gap discipline and over anxious line play.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
4:05 pm
D3
Amen. I don’t see teams winning the Superbowl with only the run.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
4:07 pm
Big Ray
Still making great point while on the hospital bed. That’s detication! Great link, too. I like Asante’s view. That’s a veteran for you.
SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH
October 4th, 2012
5:25 pm
I would like to chime in on the A. Dent convo. This is his second year on the roster, he’s a middle linebacker, stopping the run should be instinctive for him. Hell, you could put a refrigerator in middle and it could make a tackle on occasions. I would have to respectively disagree with those that say he will have to grow into the position. I would be more inclined to give him (Dent) a pass if he were stopping the run, but struggling in coverage, he lacks in both. Say what you will, there are several 2nd and 3rd year middle linebackers in the NFL tearing it up. IMO, he lacks talent.
And another thing…Why is Mike Peterson on the Roster? active each game thus far, but not playing? If he’s getting paid to be a cheerleader from the sidelines each week, I rather Coach Smith and staff, replace him with one of the ladies from the cheerleading staff…at least that would be more pleasing to the eyes. Just my opinions.
Big Lou
October 4th, 2012
5:39 pm
Somebody
It’s hard to gain rythm when you are out most of the plays. Imagine if you did that to Matt Ryan, he would never be a good QB if he has to sit out all the run plays. Apples and oranges.
Also, remember when everyone was getting on Dent the first game(not making tackles) and he didn’t even play. Just shows how much people pay attention. They just assume: they went up the middle and got first down. It’s Dent’s fault! But, as a guy who played Dline for five years, it’s not that simple. Gap assignments always change by specific blitz packages. Also, the play that Can got a TD was a gaff by Stephen Nicholas. Dent wasn’t even on the field, I believe.
John Waynesworld
October 4th, 2012
6:57 pm
I agree D3 about Dent and that we need some patience while the he gets some reps in live action, however I do wish we could have seen more of Pat Schiller, who looked pretty agressive at MLB in a couple of preseason games. I would be curious to know why Schiller was expendable enough to leave unprotected on the PS. It may be he was dinged too much or simply wasn’t a special teams ace.
As far as Lofton, I don’t believe it was all a money thing. Even though he was a tackling stud, his pass defense and stone hands were a real problem and it wasn’t getting better. I think it was an opportunity that just presented itself to Dimitroff to free up money, with thanks to Lofton’s pricey free agent market price and Dent’s competency and production in last year’s practices.
War Eagle
October 4th, 2012
8:46 pm
Please do not criticize Cam. You would pout too if you had to take a big pay cut from college to professional football.
Screen Pass
October 5th, 2012
12:02 am
Just watched the Cards vs ATL-West Rams game. Thank god we didn’t select Massey in the draft. There is gonna be hella competition in next years draft for O-linemen. The Rams DE’s and front 4 pressure in general makes me mighty jealous.
Congrats Falcons being last undefeated NFC team and one of only two in league. The Rams don’t need Pead, would like to see a trade for the little guy, would solve kick returns and a pass catching back all in one.
Big Ray
October 5th, 2012
4:03 am
Coop and Seminole Warrior ,
Both of you hitting it hard on the defensive side of the ball and the O-Line.
Damn fine comments, can’t help but agree with just about all of it.
I think we got juked out of our shoes with Ray Edwards. Solid against the run, giving us jack diddly against the pass for the most part.
Somebody tell honest abe I owe him a 24 pack on that one…boy was he right…and boy was I WRONG.
Kroy Biermann = excellent potential in a 3-4 setup.
And I agree that the 4-3 is not something Nolan probably wanted to stick with. I’ll never forget a quote he had before the preseason started – He said that every DE we had would be a standup LB in HIS 3-4 defense….I’m telling you we have to move to that defense.
Babs and Jerry are doing ok, but y’all are right…not consistent enough. Have no idea why Vance Walker isn’t playing more…he makes plays when he’s in there.
Big Ray
October 5th, 2012
4:07 am
Big Lou ,
You are SO RIGHT about the gap thing on DL. I switched back and forth between NT and DT when I played. Started off as a LB but gained weight/size/strength, so got moved to interior D-Line.
Gap scheme changes used to be problematic at times. One thing I hated more than anything else, a huge guard pulling from the other side that I didn’t see coming. Only happened to me twice…that was all it took, LOL. Kept my head on a swivel after that. But they often had trouble with me because I’m only 5′11″….many DL guys were 6′1 or better.
SeminoleWarrior
October 5th, 2012
9:22 am
Good morning Cage
First, great discussions yesterday, particularly the exchange between the TeePee and Big Lou. Civil, insightful, and points acknowledged on both sides. We still disagree on a few points but that’s my bro from another mo over there….it’s all good.
D3, my other bro from another mo, the Dent situation and the points you made are all good. We did take a quick shot at the low risk, high reward signing of Lofu. I will grant you that. But it was CMS that said Dent was ready to roll. BL makes the point that AD has been rarely on the field. He is right in that regard. HOWEVER, when he has been on the field, he has been very, very lost looking in his effort. Now he was a rising special teams star that saw some very limited action in the prior regimes’ pathetic scheme; after four games this year, he has only seven tackles and no impactful plays.
I know that Nolan is an innovative coach. I, as I have stated many times, see this as a year of team transition. I am convinced that changes, some major, will be coming next off-season on defense. I think that Nolan will want a few changes. But I ask a simple question. Why would a DC whose coaching resume and presumed excellence on defense is built around his linebackers, especially his MLB corps, simply abandon the position for extended periods of time now? MHO, the Falcons best linebackers are the guys on the outside. A middle linebacker is in the cards for 2013….bank on it.
Nolan’s more successful packages drafted that key MLB presence as he moved around the league. Especially in his 3-4 schemes. The Jets drafted Marvin Jones and Bryan Cox. The Ravens drafted Ray Lewis. The 49ers drafted Ray Lewis. And when ATL moves to the 3-4 next season, which they should, they will draft an interior linebacker that will bring immediate presence OR they wil acquire a young FA 3-4 stud that will be the cornerstone for an interior defensive overhaul.
SeminoleWarrior
October 5th, 2012
9:36 am
Big Ray,
Hope that your recovery is going well and that you will be home very soon. Great insight from the hosptial couch though.
My bro, I too think that the Falcons will move to a 3-4 defense next season. There are several bigger DTs available in next years draft and I can see where there will be a few LB candidates available to beef up the corps for the Falcons.
Several of the contracts that were given this past off-season, according to K Strick and D3, are not as bad as I (SW) thought they were in terms of the salary cap. I’m still very cap nervous (and still learning the process from my brothers) but I can see where a couple of “prominent” Falcons will not be in the mix next season. The youtrh movement will increase next season if for no other reason than MR2 is going to get SERIOUSLY PAID in very short order.
Speaking of pay the man NOW or ASAP, it would be in the best interest of the Falcons to do so. Why? There is a slimy snake out there with a deep set of pockets that I think will be looking VERY soon for a quarterback. Not because he does not need one; he will be looking for one because he does not TRUST the one he has. And it is not the QB’s fault. The team in question is a mess; they have a head coach that is a joke, an OL that is a disaster, and they can not run the ball with any element of consistency. And I am not talking about the Arizona Cardinals or the New York Jets.
The greatest threat to us regarding MR2 possibly will come from the Dallas Cowboys.
Let me be clear. MR2 loves ATL and I really think he will want to stay in the ATL long term. But keep an eye on the snake that is Jerry Jones. Dude wants to win NOW and if he can get the right QB and is willing to give a guy like Cowher a chunk of the control over personnel, stranger things have happened. Again, not saying it will happen BUT it is something to watch.
The Rogers contract with Green Bay will be telling. If Brees got $100 million ($60 million guaranteed), what do you think the market will be for Ryan. I know the contract still has two years on it (2014) but the original deal was for six year, $72 million (34.75 mill guaranteed). You can easily increase that by a minimum, MINIMUM, of 25% as a starting point for the future negotiations.
The transition and the stability moves are just beginning.
SeminoleWarrior
October 5th, 2012
9:41 am
SP, you are so correct.
There is going to be wholesale war out there trying to acquire offensive line talent. We took two in our draft this year but the jury is still out on them.
Pead will be the starter at running back next year for the Rams. Stephen Jackson has asked for and been granted the ability to opt out of the last year of his contract at the end of this season. He will be a FA next spring.
SeminoleWarrior
October 5th, 2012
9:46 am
My man Lotulelei gave you a flash of what he could be as the centerpiece of a Mike Nolan defensive front. He was disruptive and did you see how dude moves for a 325-330 pound man. Dude reminds me of a young Vince Wilfork when he came out of the”U”. Was not flashy but was disruptive and he made those around and behind him better.
The Utah defense is young and still has some growing to do. But the upside is there. And it starts up front with Star.
Wait a minute….a defense that has some growing to do. Where did I just hear that comment?
Ohhhhhh yeah, here in ATL.
SeminoleWarrior
October 5th, 2012
9:50 am
If you are not at a game this weekend, I will give you two more DTs to watch from the Cocoa Mel scouting pages.
Purdue: DT Kawann Short
Georgia: DT John Jenkins
OSU: DT Johnathon Hankins
SeminoleWarrior
October 5th, 2012
9:50 am
Oops…I gave you three names. Georgia public schools and math. Damn it!!
Paddy O
October 5th, 2012
10:18 am
SP, folks: If you watched the AZ game – I assume you witnessed what appeared to be a highly effective Harvey Dahl doing some superb run blocking. Notice our inability to move the pile on 4th & very short is connected to Dahls’ departure? hmmm.
snacktastic
October 5th, 2012
10:21 am
Is it Sunday yet?!
Falcons 34-10 over the Redskins. I think we learn from our mistakes against Cam and shut down RG3.
And who else is excited to get Corey Peters back after the bye week?
D3
October 5th, 2012
10:36 am
SW — Hey, watch it on GA public schools.
lol