Atlanta Falcons: Birds Squeak by Raiders to 6-0
Another Win with a Sloppy Effort
Thank Goodness for Abe (AJC)
The Atlanta Falcons are the only undefeated team in the NFL, so why do fans feel so nervous or unfulfilled? After roaring out of the gates to a 3-0 start and looking excellent in all phases of the game, the Birds have come back to Earth a bit and looking pedestrian in all areas of the game, especially on offense. On one hand, the team is showing mettle, heart, and determination in finding ways to win, even if very ugly. However, if it continues for several weeks, a disturbing trend begins to take shape and what once was a strength starts to become a weakness because the team is putting itself in positions to have to win at the last minute due to the overall poor play. The fact is that the Falcons are 6-0, even though they’ve not looked very good lately. But isn’t getting a win, however you attain it, better than losing? Many teams thought to be “dominant” by the media elite talking heads have suffered losses to teams believed to be at the bottom. That speaks to NFL’s parity and winning the first 6 games, however it’s done, is a testament to the Falcons, their coaches, and their players. Whether or not it will serve to benefit or harm in the future is yet to be determined, but the reality is that the Falcons are undefeated and 31 other teams are not. A look at the Raiders game……….
Once a Strength is Becoming a Weakness
At first, it was a great strength showing determination, mettle, and finding a way to win at the last second. The Falcons didn’t play great against an inspired Panthers team coming off a bye week. They willed themselves to a win with less than a minute. Then came a Redskins game that was filled with major mistakes, slogging around, until they finally put together a TD drive and subsequent defensive stand to win the game. OK, it’s on the road and the Redskins have shown a lot of promise. A third week in a row of not playing good is a disturbing trend and is now becoming a weakness. Fact is, the Falcons are putting themselves in these situations where they must scratch and claw from behind to win the game. No other series identifies it better: Asante Samuel makes a beautiful pick six to seemingly put the game away. Then the Raiders offense commences to go right down the field to score with two minutes and not needing any of their 3 timeouts. Once a great strength of character and will is simply becoming a product a weak and sloppy play.
Matt Ryan’s Bad, Bad Day
This is About Right (AJC)
Let’s all hope it was just one of those days because it was a really bad one. Ryan threw 3 interceptions (all weren’t necessarily his fault), but some were. He seemed to have happy feet due to poor offensive line play. Not all was on him, but he had plenty of bad throws and misfires all on his own. He missed open receivers, threw the ball high, and generally had an awful day all around. Maybe it was just a bad day against a well-schemed defense. Perhaps the play-calling didn’t help any. The lack of running game surely isn’t helping and neither are the drops. Ryan’s had an excellent year to date, but he needs a game like he had vs. San Diego to erase the Raiders performance.
Abraham the Ageless Wonder
Thank goodness the Falcons found a way to keep John Abraham. The guy is a complete stud and is warming up his Ring of Honor flag as we speak. We as fans always mention Tony Gonzalez when discussing a Falcon that defies age. But Abraham deserves that praise too. He turned 34 this year and many (including this author) wondered how much he had left in the tank. Well, he’s proving once and for all just how awesome he is and by default how anemic our pass rush is without him. He notched 3 sacks, forced a fumble at a crucial time, and got several holding calls against him. In short, he was unblockable. Already, he has 6 sacks in 6 games. Abraham is the man.
Does the Offensive Line Need a Shakeup?
No, it wasn’t the worst performance of the year (that would be Carolina with 7 sacks in one game), but this offensive line is causing heartburn for Falcons fans looking forward on the schedule when they play really good defensive lines. They weren’t outright terrible in pass blocking in the beginning of the season, but now they’re looking as bad as last year. And run blocking is another nightmare altogether. But really, how much should have been expected with the EXACT SAME starting offensive line as last year?
Baker is a little better, but not dominant. Blalock is the only rock on the team. Todd McClure is on the downside of 35. Garrett Reynolds is only slightly better than last year and that’s saying very little and many think he would be better at his natural position of tackle anyway. And then there’s Tyson Clabo. He has had an absolutely atrocious year. They’re just not getting it done and it shows. Sure, Michael Turner and the running backs aren’t making plays and the play-calling seems mediocre at best recently, but this is what most fans expected when literally no changes were made. Thomas Dimitroff deserves some criticism for the past of the this line, but he used his first two picks (2nd on Peter Konz, 3rd on Lamar Holmes) on offensive linemen. Why not try these guys out for a few series and see what happens? Why not mix it up some and move some of these guys around? Is one of the best overall linemen in the entire draft (Konz) really not good enough to start somewhere on this offensive line? Of all the issues that’s most maddening fans: Mike Smith and the coaching staff’s refusal to try anything different regarding the offensive line two years running.
Speed Needed at Running Back
This may just be an excuse in trying to make up reasons why the offense has been doing so poorly, but here goes: the Falcons need more speed in the backfield. It’s been well documented here in The Cage about Michael Turner and his slowing down or not fitting in this new offense among many other things. The Falcons coaching staff decided to go with Turner as their feature back this year and, even though a few times he’s done OK, mostly he’s looked completely out of sorts with this new offense. Gone are the days of one of the best lead blocking (and highest paid) fullbacks in the league clearing holes, the days of a power-run first offense, and offensive line opening “garage-sized holes” as Cage member SOMEBODY said. The best running backs in the league simply slow down as they approach 30 years old and especially with Turner having so many carries in such a short amount of time.
Running Game is Anemic (AJC)
The issues go beyond Turner, however. Jacquizz Rodgers was thought to be somewhat of an answer and may even contend for close to 40-50% of Turner’s touches, but that surely has not been the case. Maybe it’s play-calling or just lack of playing time, but Rodgers has not turned into the player many fans expected. On the 3rd and 1 toss play to Rodgers, he had room to get the first down, but was easily caught and dropped for a loss. Even his specialty of catching the ball in space had issues when he bobbled a well-timed screen that could have gone for many yards. The odd man out has definitely been Jason Snelling. Many ream the call to give Snelling the ball on 3rd and short, but many times he tends to run just as hard as Turner and does a better job of hitting the hole. The cold truth is that the Falcon simply don’t have speed at running back and haven’t for quite some time. Antone Smith has shown some serious speed in pre-season only to never get touches in a game. What could it hurt? Look no further than Alfred Morris of the Redskins and Andre Brown of the Giants (filling in for Ahmad Bradshaw) tearing it up this year alone. Like the OL issue, that’s a major thorn for fans as well, a refusal to mix it up and give some guys a few chances. From where it stands now, running back surely could be a candidate for a 1st or 2nd round pick in 2013.
Defensive Tackle Could Use a Corey Peters Boost
Peria Jerry, Jonathan Babineaux, and Vance Walker have done a good job getting penetration in the backfield so far this season. Thought to be a possible weakness, they’ve done an admirable job overall. But they sure could use a boost, especially in the run game from a guy by the name of Corey Peters. Believed to be the best overall defensive tackle for the Falcons by many fans, Peters has been out the entire season going all the way back to training camp. He may not be ready for the Eagles game, but getting him back on a defense that could tighten up will be a nice shot in the arm.
More Issues at LB
Not having Stephen Nicholas at full strength really has shown just how fragile the Falcons linebacking corps is. Akeem Dent and Mike Peterson were on the field at the same time many times throughout the game, with Dent playing the entire game. Dent occasionally shows some promise as a very young player in the run game, but he’s just as lost as Curtis Lofton was in pass coverage. As the season wears on, the decision to not sign a linebacker for backup purposes may end up biting the Birds at some point.
Why is the Offense Digressing?
Happening Much Less than it Used to (AJC)
Is it the anemic run game? Is it the offensive line? Is Matt Ryan simply coming off his hot start? Are defenses figuring out what the Falcons want to do? Is it just execution, or is it bad play-calling? Who knows exactly why the Falcons have continued to devolve on offense the last three weeks, but this much is certain: it definitely has. The Falcons looked unstoppable against a pretty good San Diego defense, but has hit a wall of sorts since. They left many points on the board vs. Carolina and gave up 7 sacks. They played 3 quarters of weak offensive football in DC before finally getting it together. And they looked as bad as they ever have against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Whatever the reason, the coaching staff and offense better get some things figured out before a tough part of the schedule starts coming up.
Harry Douglas Needs More Snaps
This is nothing new and it has nothing to do with that spectacular off-the-helmet catch he made on the ground, but Harry Douglas should get not only more snaps on offense, but more touches as well. The idea is that it’s impossible to cover all of the Falcons aerial weapons, but despite only a few occurrences, Douglas just doesn’t get that many looks. Either that or Dirk Koetter doesn’t know how to use him correctly. Seemingly, it would be a coordinators dream to have such an explosive slot man (and to his credit, he’s giving him more looks than Mularkey did), but he never seems to get chances to do what he does best which is to catch and run in space. Perhaps this is more of a critique on formations (3 receiver, 1 TE, single back) sets than anything else, but if you’re going to be an explosive passing team, you have to maximize all your weapons and the slot doesn’t seem to be getting enough snaps or targets. No disrespect intended, but do we really want to see Mike Johnson / Joe Hawley as a 3rd TE, Lousaka Polite, or Tommy Gallarda get on the field instead of HD?
The Tight End Cupboard is Bare After Gonzalez
This is really more about going forward than this year, but Sunday’s game brought to light just how bare the tight end cupboard will be when Gonzalez does finally hang up his cleats. Michael Palmer is hurt and there’s a belief that he can at least bridge a gap until a new tight end is developed, but after that, there’s not much. Tommy Gallarda is about exactly what he was coming out of college: an undrafted free agent. And this is really more on Dimitroff than anyone. He’s not invested any consequential draft picks on tight ends since 2008. In fact, the only tight end he’s ever drafted was Keith Zinger in the 7th round. Palmer may can get it done, but the position as a whole looks to be getting a huge hit when Gonzalez leaves.
Falcons Must Develop Another Defensive End
Bryant Makes Another Late Save (AJC)
As mentioned above, thank goodness for John Abraham, because without him, the Falcons wouldn’t have much of any pass rush from the DE spot. As with tight end, the Falcons have failed to develop any significant production or player from the defensive end spot not named John Abraham. This is year 5 of the Mike Smith / Thomas Dimitroff regime and despite all the supposed talent at DE, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of promise. Ray Edwards appears to be looking more and more like a weak free agent move (as many fans, including this author admit through gritted teeth). Kroy Biermann should move permanently to linebacker, his natural position, most fans believe and is too light to make an impact at DE. Then there’s Lawrence Sidbury who some thought may see an increased role under Mike Nolan, only to continue his disappearing act in 2012. Jonathan Massaquoi and Cliff Matthews may hold some talent, but they’re always ending up on the inactive list every Sunday. The Falcons signed Abraham to a 3 year contract, so theoretically they have a few more years, but they’ve already had 5.
Fans Seem to Be Pretty Evenly Split
Here in The Cage, it appears to be pretty evenly split among fans and their beliefs / opinions. Some feel that the NFL is the most parity-driven sport in the entire world and that “Any Given Sunday” is a true reality in that each win is special in the National Football League. Hard to argue when you see teams like the Patriots, Packers, 49ers, and Steelers losing games many think they shouldn’t. The Falcons may not be flawless, but they’re finding ways to win and are, so far, the only undefeated team in the NFL. It’s hard to argue against that belief.
On the other hand, fans rightly point to similarities to 2010 when the Falcons were “finding ways to win” as they are now, while not playing great football, went 13-3, and got downright embarrassed in the Debacle in the Dome. In other words, not only losing in back-to-back playoff appearances, but getting blown out and humiliated has corroded the idea of “getting the benefit of the doubt.” There’s nothing the Falcons can do about the postseason right now but win and get there, but those 2010 Falcons seemed to be getting worse as the postseason approached, not better. It’s also hard to argue that point as well.
The Bird Cage Faithful’s Turn
1) Simple Kickoff – where’s your confidence level after week 6?
2) Are the come-from-behind wins still a strength or are they now a weakness?
3) What was up with Matt Ryan’s bad day: one awful game or disturbing trend?
4) Is John Abraham nearing potential Ring of Honor status soon? Can he keep up this pace all season?
5) Is the Falcons offensive line finally due for a shakeup? What would your starting 5 be at Philly?
6) What should the Birds do @ RB? Is more speed desperately needed?
7) What’s your thoughts on the DT play?
8.) Are the LB issues keeping you up at night? Thoughts on Dent?
9) It’s an impossible question, but why is the offense digressing so bad?
10) Should Harry Douglas or others get more touches?
11) What should the Falcons do about TE after Gonzalez retires?
12) What is the deal with the Falcons failure to develop ANY OTHER defensive end?
13) What side do you fall on: happy to 6-0 and plenty of time to correct problems or seriously worried about what the future holds?
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468 comments Add your comment
SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH
October 16th, 2012
11:51 am
SW, My condolences my Brother. The cage will open it’s heart of love…and out will fly an abundance of doves escorting your Angel to her final resting place.
May GOD Bless You, Your Family. Stay Strong Brother…
Coop
October 16th, 2012
11:55 am
Seminole Warrior – My family and I join the rest of the Cage in sending our thoughts and prayers to you and our family. No words will erase your pain brother, but the Almighty Jumpmaster heals all broken hearts in time. I know you are in the valley friend, but remember that He carries us through the dark valley so that we may fully appreciate the mountain tops! You are not alone!
Wabe
October 16th, 2012
11:57 am
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-am/0ap2000000081014/Smith-We-ve-got-a-long-way-to-go?module=HP11_content_stream
——
Tell me really, is Smitty not saying the same exact thing that ‘negative Cage posters’ are saying in this interview…
Wabe
October 16th, 2012
12:00 pm
Smitty: “We know we can play much better football than we’ve played. We’ve done some good things, but we’ve got some areas that are of concern that we’ve gotta get better at.”
SeminoleWarrior
October 16th, 2012
12:01 pm
Thanks guys…..thanks more than you will ever know.
In memory of my Angel as well as all fallen angels everywhere.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kh-ZcWQtWxs
Big Lou
October 16th, 2012
12:08 pm
Wabe
The difference is that most of the negative posters(not you) are not willing to give the new coaching staff a chance. When you got people comparing this team to 2010… it’s reaching. The homer fans(like myself) have agreed time and time again that we have flaws–oline, rush defense, effective use of Tuner. The difference is, we believe the coaching staff will fix it. We believe this team is a different animal all together–confidence, swagger. Again, I am good if they want to be critical, ’cause they want this team to succeed, but let’s not compare them to the past. That’s like putting a v8 into a previously v6 car, and expecting it to go the same speed.
Big Lou
October 16th, 2012
12:09 pm
SW
Stay strong, man. God does not give us tests that we cannot pass. Dig deep within, and be blessed.
waynester
October 16th, 2012
12:24 pm
None of our TEs are under contract after this season, and only a few Vets on the market–most of whom will be RFAs. Several good up-coming TEs came into the league under 3-year deals which will be up in 2013…including Daniel Graham from NO and Dennis Pitta from BAL. Tony G is the biggest name on the FA list for TEs, along with Dallas Clark at TB and Fred Davis, WASH…..
Box
October 16th, 2012
12:36 pm
SW,
Prayers for you and yours as always.
John Waynesworld
October 16th, 2012
12:38 pm
1) Where’s your confidence level after week 6? I’m hovering somewhere in between “high” and “shaky”. Let’s face it, the NFL is a crap shoot. We could come off the bye and beat the Eagles 21-14 or lose by the same score. We have work to do but I’m just happy we’re 6-0.
2) Are the come-from-behind wins still a strength or are they now a weakness? Come from behind wins are always a good tonic for the troops, but too many of these close games may cause doubt to creep into the players’ minds, and it may allow lesser teams to hang around longer than they should. We need a blowout or two in some of these upcoming games just to give our team a break.
3) What was up with Matt Ryan’s bad day: one awful game or disturbing trend? I believe Matt is having problems “feeling” protected. I think it can be fixed.
4) Is John Abraham nearing potential Ring of Honor status soon? Can he keep up this pace all season? John should be considered. The Predator has been keeping us in games, or winning games with a late sack, for years. He will eventually be awarded a spot.
5) Is the Falcons offensive line finally due for a shakeup? What would your starting 5 be at Philly? Not really. I would however start using a RB to chip, as they aren’t doing anything anyway. My 5…Baker, Blalock, Mud Duck, Whoever, Clab-olé.
6) What should the Birds do @ RB? Is more speed desperately needed? In the same vein as pissing on a spark plug, maybe we should try Antone Smith. Why not? He can’t be any more disappointing than our top 3.
7) What’s your thoughts on the DT play? Porous, non-penetrating, overmatched, ineffective…They are pretty stout near the goal line, though, mostly.
8.) Are the LB issues keeping you up at night? Thoughts on Dent? Dent is apparently another Lofton. I would put Dent in there anytime we need to butt heads to stop short yardage, but in play action scenarios, it is just a matter of time before some RB or TE will fake him out of his socks for a big touchdown. Check mark “ILB” for a top choice next to “TE” in our next draft.
9) It’s an impossible question, but why is the offense digressing so bad? The problem is the offensive line and no RBs who can make something out of nothing. It is left to Matt to conjure up a pass in 4 seconds or less or else he gets killed.
10) Should Harry Douglas or others get more touches? Harry is a concern. He does not get any separation. We need a bigger receiver in the slot, IMO.
11) What should the Falcons do about TE after Gonzalez retires? There is a guy who is playing TE at Notre Dame…The problem is that he may go too soon before we pick. We may have an option or two in free agency but it could get pricey.
12) What is the deal with the Falcons failure to develop ANY OTHER defensive end? It could be strength and conditioning, or maybe we don’t feed them enough. Either way, no one on the D Line is getting any push except for Abe.
13) What side do you fall on: happy to 6-0 and plenty of time to correct problems or seriously worried about what the future holds? As long as we are 2+ games ahead of New Whoreleans going into the final game with them, I am happy. Home field is a necessary goal as well as good health, so if we have those two at season’s end I will be ecstatic.
John Waynesworld
October 16th, 2012
12:43 pm
Condolences and prayers, SW.
Matty Bicep
October 16th, 2012
12:51 pm
Exactly BL, I believe in Smitty because I think his players do. I have not seen and ounce of quit, and the ability to cooly execute winning drives in the final seconds is what the NFL is all about. Remember when Bilichek went for it on 4th and 2 on their own 20 rather than give the ball the Manning? That is how I want teams looking at us. I want teams fearing us at money time, and they should.
Sure we have our issues just like every other team, but to sit back and endlessly harp on them, only to say “I told you so” every game when every play was not executed to perfection is not being a supportive fan, at least not in my book. Your no different than the ESPN schmucks.
IF we get the playoffs, I expect the Falcons to go out and believe they can win, and if they believe it, I will to. When I see a guy stud like Abs forgo more money to say in ATL because he believes, when I see another HOFer like Gonzo re-up another year because he believes, I believe. I just think sometimes the best things are worth not being afraid to expose yourself.
Sick & Tired Of Being Sick & Tired
October 16th, 2012
1:10 pm
@SeminoleWarrior – Condolences to you and your family!!!!!
—————————————————————–
One of the greatest points that this article makes (and I totally agree with) is the fact that the coaches don’t seem to want to try someone else on the O-Line and at running back other than the obvious choices. Where is Antone Smith? (even before he got injured), Snelling?, Harry Douglas?, Kontz?, Holmes? The consistently great teams seem to utilize the talent on their entire roster better than the Falcons.
When you watch other good teams play, their QBs seem to have a lot better protection (as in time to find receivers) and they can open a hole for the RBs….To get the ball on the goal (after Ray Edwards picked up the fumble) and to not be able to get a rushing touchdown in 4 downs was pathetic. The O-Line IS NOT WORKING AS IS…..when you look at the defensive players that they go up against each week, they are just too small to be very effective.
I still don’t get this concept of drafting players who were great/outstanding in that position then the Falcons switch them to a totally different position and expect them to succeed at a high level. I know that you need to cross train for injuries, but Kontz is a great example of what I mean.
John Waynesworld
October 16th, 2012
1:11 pm
Dadgum blog monster…
JB Falcon
October 16th, 2012
1:16 pm
SW, we have been concerned about your absence in the cage and now am sorry to hear of your loss. Know in your heart and believe with all your faith that our Father will help you through these trying times. May He be with you and yours.
Slant Pattern
October 16th, 2012
1:20 pm
SW, my condolences for your loss. It took me awhile to get past the grey, hope you get there faster than I did.
D3
October 16th, 2012
1:34 pm
JWW — It’s out.
SW — Thoughts are with you my brother. We all know how special the Angel was to you.
Falcons Bashing — Love some Falcons Bashing from the national media elite, because the experts all know that we’re going to go 3-7 down the stretch, miss the playoffs, implode our stadium, sell our franchise, and never watch the NFL again. I mean, I get it, we’ve not looked spectacular, but we might as well be 0-6 or 1-5 the way these clowns are talking. All that being said, if we go up and lose to Philly, can you imagine how bad it’ll be then?
WR
October 16th, 2012
1:36 pm
Crazy, its been awhile too for myself to post in the cage SW, and while we have always seemed to have a good connection it was crazy to hear your beloved angel also goes by Josephine, which now that I’m older I always kid her by calling her Joe like the adults would do as I was growing up. You and yours are definitely in my prayers, JB put it as well as can be said, I’ll just add from one of my favorite songs, trust in the Lord he’s Worthy.
In regards to the Falcons, this might sound crazy if not strange but I’m kind of glad they’re showing glitches in their armour. The reason being, its still early in the season, they have survived subpar play to have a 6-0 record going into their bye. If the Falcons were 6-0 playing their best ball at this early stage of the season I would be concerned. We have to remember only 1 team has gone undefeated and won the SB and there’s a reason for that. I have mentioned it many times and the theory hasn’t changed, you just do not want your team peaking to early. I believe we all at this point can say the Falcons are know where near peaking even given their record. That’s actually been a problem in the past, these guys know their just getting by, and with this staff, getting by just won’t do, so they will continue to focus on improving which is the ultimate goal. Getting to the second season and winning is the name of the game, the Falcons have positioned themselves very well to get to the 2nd season, but they have also been there and done that with very poor results. I believe they know that, so again, sure lately they have just been getting by, I’m waiting for them really to start clicking, thats what I want and that’s when I can truly have an opinion on where this team could be headed, if it doesn’t happen, the opinion will be really easy.
WR
October 16th, 2012
1:58 pm
I wanted to get that post out the way, but just a special post to SW, if your Josephine was anything like mind, which given the presence you have always shinned upon the cage, you know your sorrow today is going to be filled with joy tomorrow because she made it through this journey. Many don’t realize and I know you do, this journey is a short one, it takes people like the Josephine’s of the world to teach us that. Once they complete this journey for some reason we choose to mourn for them when they no longer have to mourn for themselves, they have to mourn for us in hopes that we end up where they are once we complete this journey. Given how you have talked about her, she expected you to mourn, given how you posted it in this friendly little nest called the cage, while she is DEFINITELY alright now, she knows you will be too. Gems like that never fear death, they fear that they won’t be here to watch over you, and as long as they know you will be alright, they really can enjoy a road less traveled, but a road that ends in unimaginable JOY.
Atlanta Falcons: Birds Squeak by Raiders to 6-0 | Atlanta InformerAtlanta Informer
October 16th, 2012
2:01 pm
[...] News here – Atlanta Falcons: Bird Cage ← Atlanta Weather | Nice Day on Tap Cancel [...]
Robert James
October 16th, 2012
2:06 pm
D3 on TE Gallarda and Palmer. LOL… I assume TG’s two drops were difficult… Go back and view the rewind on the LB hanging on Gallarda in the middle sit route…. As with every other receiver the Raiders were getting away with holding the entire game. Don’t know why the hate on Gallarda. The TD catch in the Carolina game was a difficult catch even though called back. His reception in the Redskin game was not as difficult. He had a number of receptions in preseason. Did you see the Miami game? And I only focus on WRs and TEs and went back and looked Gallarda and Cone up in college. Both were receiving guys. Gallarda scored every three passes. Cone another unheralded UDFA had a big college career…. Just one last thought for you. Any idea how many UDFAs make up an NFL team…. You might want to revise your assessment…. just saying…
D3
October 16th, 2012
2:15 pm
Robert James — OK man, since you want to be that way, than here goes: I don’t think Gallarda is very good. And I also have worries about Palmer as well. As well, if you actually read what I said, it was more a knock on Dimitroff not spending any draft picks on TE’s. But since you seem to be in love with the idea of UDFA’s, hell, let’s just give away all our draft picks and go straight for all UDFA’s. Since you got your cute little stat ready to go, tell me how many Falcons are currently still on the roster as UDFA’s since Smith / Dimitroff came aboard.
I should stop welcoming people to the Cage and just start being an @sshole I guess.
JB Falcon
October 16th, 2012
2:22 pm
WR 1:36, I agree about the blow-outs, or lack thereof. We’ve been waiting to see the entire team perform at our best and some are getting anxious. We are squeaking by with 6-0 and that’s just fine with me. At least we are showing that we have the ability to come from behind, even though we don’t play like that the whole game. That ability will come in handy when it’s a win or go home game.
It is not necessary to win every game by 20 – 30 points and even a loss every now and then won’t keep us out of the playoffs. Like you said, we don’t want to peak too early and the theory hasn’t changed.
SeminoleWarrior
October 16th, 2012
2:25 pm
Cage Family…..Again, The TeePee thanks you all for the thoughts and prayers. Can’t keep the eyes clear enough to travel southward today but will be rolling in the morning. Saw her for the last time this past weekend after the Seminoles beat BC. Had a precious moment that would be my last; in the witness of a friend, she tried to tell me something but her pain was too great and I could not understand. But I kissed her forehead, cried, and told her I love her. That love is the gift she gave me and will know be the eternal flame that sustains her within my heart.
WR, the kindred spirit that seems to bond us, continues to amaze me.
She was my beacon; the two core pillars of my life were my grandmothers. See, as you well may know, in the African American experience, when men did not own up, and mothers were too young to understand the responsibilities of it all, grandmothers saved the day for many a child like me.
Love all of them dearly; now three sit at the right hand of the Almighty. Mom, Grandma Ma Dear (Gertrude), and Grandma Angel (Josephine). And now, the son and the father must united to ease the pain of both hearts. And we will. The Unconquered knows of no other way.
We are down at the moment. But as MLK stated, the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort; the ultimate measure of a man is where he stands in moments of controversy and distress.
I promise friends…..down for a moment but never will be out of the game called life. Again, thanks for the prayers and thoughts. We need them and sincerely appreciated them.
Wings
October 16th, 2012
2:39 pm
SW, I am certain Josephine is one of the Lord’s favorite angels.
Wings
October 16th, 2012
2:43 pm
Big Lou – “6) What should the Birds do @ RB? Is more speed desperately needed?
Until next year, they need to scheme better around the RBs they have. It just looks like they are trying to make Turner/Quizz adapt to their scheme, which doesn’t fit their strengths.”
I believe this one thing would help the offense more than anything. The plays that are used have been worn out for a few years.
Slant Pattern
October 16th, 2012
3:01 pm
“I should stop welcoming people to the Cage and just start being an @sshole I guess.” – D3
Hey, thats my job
!!
Coop
October 16th, 2012
3:15 pm
1) Simple Kickoff – where’s your confidence level after week 6? Honestly, it’s shot. I was very confident after the Skins game and agreed with the comments about mettle and grit. But I said before Oakland there was no excuse to play poorly and/or lose. That destroyed my confidence that Smith recognized and addressed the issues from the previous two week outings. Am I confident we have the talent to beat anyone in the league?? 100% I am back to worrying EVERY game, which team will show up. Just like when the Eagles kept turning the ball over and barely winning folks said that will catch up to you. If we continue to play like this, it WILL catch up to us.
2) Are the come-from-behind wins still a strength or are they now a weakness? Definite weakness now. I think it allows the players to get complacent DURING the game. If we don’t execute on a drive, “eh… we’ll pull it out”. Give up a late TD, “eh… O will save us”. Bad state of mind to play in.
3) What was up with Matt Ryan’s bad day: one awful game or disturbing trend? Not sure. I hope it was a bad game. But we look more like the MM O the last 3 weeks than we did the first 3. Mybe it’s play calling, OL protection, whatever. I hope he just had a bad day. Of all the people associated with this organization, he is the one I trust the most.
4) Is John Abraham nearing potential Ring of Honor status soon? Can he keep up this pace all season? I need the see the numbers compared to Claude Humphreys, etc. That said, if Deion is ROH worthy (which I totally disagree with), then Abe is a lock. As for how much longer???? Tell him to drink from Tony G’s fountain of youth.
5) Is the Falcons offensive line finally due for a shakeup? What would your starting 5 be at Philly? Finally??? Seriously D3???? They’ve been ready for what… 4 years now. Why DID we draft Konz and Holmes?
6) What should the Birds do @ RB? Is more speed desperately needed? Yes. We need more speed. But until we fix the OL, will we ever really know what we need? I agree Turner is probably never getting back to his old ways consistently. For now, I’d give Smith a shot.
7) What’s your thoughts on the DT play? We have had some issues with the running game, but overall I think it’s faily solid. Most of the time, they anchor the center well. We don’t see QBs running up the middle when the DEs get around the end. That’s a good sign. More often we are flushing QBs to the sideline (see RGIII). I do think Walker should get even more playing time. He MIGHT be the best DT we have. I’m not convinced that Peters is any upgrade over Babs or Jerry.
8.) Are the LB issues keeping you up at night? Thoughts on Dent? as afreaid we’d miss Lofton… and we absolutely do. I hope Dent gets better. If not, we blew a pick on a really bad MLB. I agree with others, let Kroy play OLB. Heck, might as well play Sid there too.
9) It’s an impossible question, but why is the offense digressing so bad? I’m in SP’s camp. Bad route designs on passing plays and horrible O on running plays.
10) Should Harry Douglas or others get more touches? Yes. As well as Cone. Let’s flood the field with speed.
11) What should the Falcons do about TE after Gonzalez retires? Pray we actually draft a talented TE.
12) What is the deal with the Falcons failure to develop ANY OTHER defensive end? Not sure, but it’s unacceptable. Where are Sid, Matthews, Mass, etc.?
13) What side do you fall on: happy to 6-0 and plenty of time to correct problems or seriously worried about what the future holds? Happy, but seriously worried.
D3
October 16th, 2012
3:27 pm
Robert James — One last thing and this will be it. Since you like stats, here’s the top 20 TE’s from this year according to receiving yards, which is my original point (you can find blocking TE’s anywhere):
Player – Round Drafted
1) Tony Gonzalez – 1st
2) Owen Daniels – 4th
3) Rob Gronkowski – 2nd
4) Vernon Davis – 1st
5) Jimmy Graham – 3rd
6) Fred Davis – 2nd
7) Jermaine Gresham – 1st
8.) Greg Olsen – 1st
9) Jared Cook – 3rd
10) Brandon Myers – 6th
11) Jason Witten – 3rd
12) Brandon Pettigrew – 1st
13) Heath Miller – 1st
14) Martellus Bennett – 2nd
15) Scott Chandler – 4th
16) Jermichael Finley – 3rd
17) Dennis Pitta – 4th
18) Jacob Tamme – 4th
19) Coby Fleener – 2nd
20) Zach Miller – 2nd
But hey, maybe your boy Gallarda can be the next…………oh nevermind, ALL OF THEM WERE DRAFTED!!!!!!!!!
Robert James
October 16th, 2012
3:31 pm
D3
Don’t get defensive… and the stats are not “cute little stats”… There is very little difference between the 5th, 6th and 7th Round Draft picks and UDFAs. Here’s some of my favorite UDFAs and you would have to agree they along with countless others would take exception to your “How far can an UDFA take you” comment – Willie Brown, Victor Cruz, London Fletcher, Arian Foster, Jeff Garcia, Antonio Gates (I put him very close to TG), James Harrison, Warren Moon (HOF), John Randle, Tony Romo, Rod Smith, Adam Vinatieri (albeit a Kicker), Kurt Warner, Wes Welker… There are 1,900 Roster guys in the NFL and coaches evaluate their talent. we fans are no better than most pundits who have never played… Most of the players on rosters aside from 3 maybe 4 at the most are not stars. they are just called upon to do their job week after week with consistency. Gallarda and Palmer are in this group. Gallarda popped Turner’s TD last week and also caught a pass for 7 yards. Just doing his job. And if TG retires TD will get another receiving TE. That guy doesn’t necessarily have to be a Draft Pick.. It might be a UDFA in the League that might be as good as UDFA Antonio Gates….
Loyalfalconfrmthemississippi
October 16th, 2012
3:41 pm
@firedupfalcon id have to say none of the above man, tony G will score first no doubt possibly white or julio but gonzo has been the consistent go to guy so he will score first
SG
October 16th, 2012
4:00 pm
Seminole Warrior – just saw the news. Thought, prayers going out along w/ a wish for you to find the peace she wants for you now.
Edge Team
October 16th, 2012
4:01 pm
This is a team that has been built for the edge – not the core, so it is too dependent on the play from the edges (receivers and db’s) to win and lose games. This is what has hurt them the last 2 post seasons and is the crux of why they could be 3-3 just as easily as 6-0. Matt Ryan cannot make up for what is lacking at the core. They chose this path when they gave up draft choices and did not make the proper upgrades to the core with FA. Ray Edwards is actually a defensive edge player at DE, so again where is the common sense when it comes to building up the core. You wanna know why run defense is a sieve or why Ryan has too much pressure? You can win games with quickness on the edge, but in the long run and especially where the playoffs are concerned, it won’t take you far. We haven’t been able to win a single playoff game, which is because Aaron Rodgers has all week to throw the ball and Ryan is pressured so quickly that all he can do is throw out of bounds or look for his security blanket in Gonzalez for short yardage. Go Falcons!!!
Barry
October 16th, 2012
4:06 pm
Hey Y’all:
6-0 is great !! The “PROCESS” is continuing. Yes, we have some things to “FIX” on offense and defense. We have been playing together in “ONE HEARTBEAT!” as we are getting through these wins. However, the “FIXES” have to come quick for we are moving into some “FUN” and “COMPETITIVE” games in the second half of the seasons. Our offensive line have to tighten things up in the running game. They could not move the defensive line of the Raiders 2 inches at the goal line to get a touchdown. Remember, these are the same linemen from” last year” who had difficulty in moving inches against other teams in the leauge that we played last year. No offense, but they have to get better in moving defensive linemen in order to make holes. If they can’t do it, let the “ROOKIES” that we drafted get a chance to see what they can do. PUT THEM IN THE FIRE TO GET BATTLE TESTED!!! We are coming down to aggressive defensive teams like the Giants, who destroyed our line last year. We will see them again, and other defensive front four like them. What changes have we made on the offensive line to beat these guys as compared to last year. They are in our way towards the Super Bowl. We better be ready to defeat them. Will our new offensive schem work to do it? I do not think so. The line currently are not busting holes for Turner or the other running backs in this offensive line blocking scheme. I believe it’s the personnel. And if we are going to continue winning and getting to the Super Bowl, if they do not play better against better defensive fronts against the run and pass, then they need to be changed.
Our defensive interior needs to get more NASTY. They appear to not have the ability to shed blockers, on a consistant basis, and as a team, in getting to the running backs and the quarterback. WE NEED SOME BIG, IMMOVABLE, MOBILE OBJECTS IN THERE TACKLING RUNNERS IN THE BACKFIELD AND SACKING QUARTERBACKS. I am more than confident this will get fixed in some manner, with the addition of Corey Peter, but he will need help from the rest of the guys up there. ITS TIME TO GET DURTY AND NASTY FELLAS. THE SUPPR BOWL RUN STARTS WHEN YOU GET OUT OF THIS “BYE” WEEK. Get ready in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!!”. I HEAR YOU GUYS COMING. “THUMP!!! YOU’RE GETTING LOUDER!!! THUMP… THUMP!!!! ……..!!!!. LET’S DO THIS!!!!
GO FALCONS!!!!!!
THE “PROCESS” CONTINUES TO THE SUPER BOWL.
“FALCONS, RISE UP!!!”. WE “RISE UP!!!” IN “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!
……………………………..”ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!………………………
falcon21
October 16th, 2012
4:28 pm
SW, thoughts and prayers are with you and yours my friend.
Paddy O
October 16th, 2012
4:32 pm
Big Lou – that is the crux of our problems. we replaced the V6 with the V8, and we are not getting any visible improvement in speed or performance – BUT, this is the odd part – games 1 to 3, we were showing exponential improvement. Until we started agitating to get Turner more involved. Either Welcome Back has been Smitty Balled, or our focus has been off – plus I do suspect Welcome Back was trying stupid cute wrinkles that failed miserably. However, what is the story with our O line? It is like we put in a new V8 engine, but left the 3 speed shift on the column transmission that has over 300,000 miles on and has been leaking and skipping gears since it had 80,000 miles on it (stupid cheap). So, how do we explain leaving the same crummy transmission we had last year (which for some odd reason ALSO played exceptionally well the first 3 games until they were asked to focus more on run blocking). See the parallels here?
Paddy O
October 16th, 2012
4:34 pm
SW: I am sorry for your loss.
JB Falcon
October 16th, 2012
4:47 pm
Paddy O, uh, we spent all our money on the V8 and kinda thought we could make do the old tranny?
Not a good idea but it is what it is.
Someone said, maybe we’re just trying to hard, so maybe that could be the answer. Go easy on the old tranny until we can replace it. We still have the HP.
Big Lou
October 16th, 2012
4:52 pm
Paddy O
Turner’s involvement has been consistent since day one of the new season. If anything, Turner has been getting less involved each game. The pass and run ratio has also been consistent. They are passing the ball much more. That’s where all those comments from ESPN are coming from in getting our running game going.
As for your metaphor, I completely agree. I have been preaching player execution. You’re preaching to the choir on those assessments, but I feel confidence/attitude/better defense/explosive(but inconsistent) offense will be adjusted by our newer coaching staff. Who, now have the tools to fix those leaks and get the best proformance out of the engine we have. Examples: DeCoud, Owens, Jerry, ect.
Points I am making is that our new coaching staff will make adjustments and put our team in a better position to win than BVG/MM did. With or without the old pieces.
Terrell
October 16th, 2012
5:11 pm
I agree with most of you here that want to give our young DEs a shot. The question is though who do you make inactive? Massaoqui and Matthews have been inactive, what two guys do you make inactive to let them play? I’m still trying to figure out why Clabo and Reynolds don’t swap positions. When Clabo came here as a free agent from Denver he was a guard. We used him at tackle as a necessity. We drafted Reynolds as a tackle but moved him to guard and now we have Mike Johnson who we drafted as a guard and moved him to tackle. It makes no sense to me. :
Paddy O
October 16th, 2012
5:31 pm
well, Brian Billick still likes us.
Paddy O
October 16th, 2012
5:37 pm
BL: I just find if exceptionally odd that we were playing so well the first 3 games – good protection, quick shots to the receivers – and then suddenly since Carolina, our play is not as good – and I’d say that the last 3 opponents were inferior to the first 3 – so, that leads to trepidation – what is the explanation? We were exceptionally lucky against Carolina and Oakland – heck, even the interceptions against WASH were due to us knocking our RG3. Nolan is a fairly known commodity. Welcome Back does not have a good reputation; at least to me. So, the hot/cold start jump starts the doubting. We shall see. The key for Ryan is good pass protection. No point blowing up the passing game/ QB when with our talent, we should be able to win simply off the pass. The Turner quotes from D3 are troubling to me – it appears Turner does not feel a part of the team – but must recognize his own short comings – he is chunky and slow to the hole, and falls over with far too little effort. he is NOT a punishing runner. Time will tell.
Paddy O
October 16th, 2012
5:41 pm
JB – from our draft last year, it appears we bought all the high performance parts to fix the tranny; but the old shade tree mechanic does not trust them – instead, he’s milking the old tranny for all its worth. However, if the old tranny causes the high performance V8 (MR2) to throw a rod, then we are stuck in idle. Not good for the fanbase.
Paddy O
October 16th, 2012
5:43 pm
I;m a little disappointed in the drops by Quizz; not surprised in the drops by Turner – he’ll drop about 50% of the throws to him. JJ – his drops I blame on his hand. Tony G does not really drop much of anything. If we are going to be pass happy, our MR2 needs to have time and room to operate. Bad pass protection ruins that goal. 2 of last 3 have been bad.
Birdman
October 16th, 2012
5:51 pm
Seminole Warrior.
It was just yesterday I was asking where you were . But my Heart told me that something more than the usual was going on.
My friend my brother I honestly can not tell you how much I feel your pain. I have never met you face to face but from day one 5 years ago when I first came to the cage you made me feel welcome here and I knew then you were one of the true men of God and honer that I have never met. I feel as if I have known you all my life.
Your Angel has made her final destination to the infinite life and reward that we all await.And there is no doubt in my mind that( as you have said ) she is sitting beside our Lord and Savior; The God Almighty. Be Strong for your family as I know you are . She has ended her small speak of a life here on earth . Now its for ever with God where she awaits you my friend.
You and your family are in my prayers that your hearts will be comforted in your loss..In your time of mourning pick up your Bible and read it. It has always helped me.
B-Basic
I-Instructions
B-Before
L-leaving
E-Earth
I am sure she read hers often . God Bless You Brother
D3
October 16th, 2012
6:31 pm
I usually like his stuff, but I couldn’t disagree more with Knox Bardeen’s premise on this one. Our OL is pretty horrible, but gimme a break on Turner not breaking or slowing down. You’re obviously not watching the games……..
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1372958-atlanta-falcons-michael-turner-isnt-breaking-down-offensive-line-is-failing
D3
October 16th, 2012
6:47 pm
Good article by our buddy Scott Carasik over @ Bleacher………
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1372525-why-matt-ryans-week-6-regression-an-ominous-sign-for-atlanta-falcons-super-bowl
Slant Pattern
October 16th, 2012
7:06 pm
“Good article by” – D3
I hope you are kidding. That was utter nonsense. I love the “I know M. Ryan was hit while throwing but a real NFL QB doesn’t throw it” garbage. If you know he was hit while throwing then why are you blaming him instead of the crappy O-line that allowed him to get hit. Regression? Did this moron watch the game? I wish some of our more naive fans and these ignorant writers could take half the beating our QB does from our fail line. It wouldn’t make them any less ignorant but it might shut em up for a bit.
tyler
October 16th, 2012
7:17 pm
Whats up cage. Great writeup D3, I agree with just about everything you said.
Some of the holes this OL is opening up would benefit greatly from a RB with speed who really knows how to run north and south. I know A. Smith has been hurt all year, but he has shown he has a gear that Turner and Rodgers both lack so I wonder if we might see him get some oppurtunities once healthy.
One thing I really want to comment on is how Babineaux is playing. That dude is playing off the chain defense right now. He was awesome Sunday. After watching the game and then watching the replay, Babs dominated many times while being double teamed as well as singled up. I wanted to give him a shout out.
I hate to keep harping on Dent, especially since we are 6-0 Baby!!!, but he is not giving us anything against the run. Literally nothing. I don’t know what his tackles are this season but I would be surprised if he is in double digits for the year. I know for a fact he can’t have double digit solo tackles, he might of picked up some pile-on assists along the way but that’s about it.
snacktastic
October 16th, 2012
7:18 pm
SW – Sending my condolences along with the rest of the Cage. Stay strong.