Atlanta Falcons: Birds Beat Cowboys, Stay Undefeated

The Hitman

November 5th, 2012
11:09 pm

The falcons did what they needed to do….WIN!! Although I’m getting pretty concerned about the RT situation and how SLOW Michael Turner is.

DHunt

November 5th, 2012
11:10 pm

D3 I see you are getting in the groove and going with the winning flow! 8-0 has to feel good no matter how you slice it!

Atlanta Falcons | NewsTrendr

November 6th, 2012
1:11 am

[...] Atlanta Falcons: Birds Beat Cowboys, Stay UndefeatedAtlanta Journal Constitution (blog)It wasn't beautiful or awe-inspiring, but the Atlanta Falcons did what they had to do when it counted most to beat the desperate Dallas Cowboys to stay undefeated. The defense played a great game, the offense played good but fell short in the red zone …Atlanta Falcons Breaking Team and Individual RecordsRant SportsAtlanta Falcons keep winning; Chicago Bears turn into monstersNFL NewsAtlanta Falcons 2012: 8 Wins, 0 RespectBleacher ReportOpposing Views -PennLive.com -FOXSports.comall 2,193 news articles » [...]

Stephen

November 6th, 2012
1:59 am

Good article. Being a Falcons fan and watching all the hard times they been through in the early 2000’s and all the media couldn’t wait to get a piece of it. Braves never get any media attention unless it is negative as well. Just the life of an athlete who plays for either Atlanta team. To be honest I can care less what the outside world thinks of our beloved teams, they are not playing for those people they are playing for the people who support, and care about them, as well as a chance for the SB championship. I just wish Atlanta fans would show more support at games, No matter the event Atlanta fans are never pumped up. I was at a Falcons game more fans were more worried about facebooking on their phones then cheering the bird on. I heard more cheers for Cowboys then I did for Falcons(IN OUR OWN STADIUM!) RISE UP FANS, let the birds know we are behind them 10000%

BILLY MAYS HERE

November 6th, 2012
3:02 am

Beating the Saints 2X this year is good enough for me.

Northbysoutheast

November 6th, 2012
5:32 am

I’m a lifetime Falcons fan, but I can understand some of the hesitation out there to get on the bandwagon. For example there’s the often inconsistent play or the state of their opponents. The Boys and Eagles are arguably the best teams the Falcons have played so far and both teams are in a bit of a tail-spin. Also, there’s something to be said about teams that don’t necessarily get off to a great start but improve as the season goes on. Those are the teams that always seem to carry momentum into the post-season, like the Giants did last year.
All that said, you don’t pick your opponents in the NFL, you just take what you get. It’s also tough to win on the road against anybody. The Falcons have won all their games, and you can’t ask for more, half of those games coming on the road. I think we’ll know what exactly we’ve got after the next 2 road games in N.O. and T.B. The Saints are not as bad as their record might indicate and the Bucs have become one of those teams to watch out for in the second half. Win those two games and no one can deny this is a truly great team.

London Falcon

November 6th, 2012
6:03 am

11) I don’t think it’s bias against the Falcons, but just a media love affair with teams that are loud or gaudy (NY Jets anyone?). So they focus on teams that may look good, but lack the fundamentals that actually make the difference in the NFL (hello Eagles….)

Just to put it in some context, here are the Falcon NFL ranks since the beginning of the 2008 season.
Wins: #2 (51 wins. New England #1 with 53)
Point Differential: #7 (+359)
Points Scored: #7 (1790)
Points Allowed: #5 (1431)

At some point things have to stop being about style and start being about substance. Ultimately, we’ve all seen that under MS and MR, the falcons are winners and they are closers. Who cares if they look slick doing it? To quote Al Davis – they just win, baby. If they keep this up, eventually the media will have to change the conversation to how clutch, sound, gritty, and professional the Falcons are. And that sounds an awful lot better than something ridiculous like “Dream Team”…

Singletary

November 6th, 2012
6:39 am

Not worried (yet) about AutoMATTic. He’s done this too long … and saved us from a potentially losing effort against the Raiders in OT with an extremely long field goal … for me to question the real ice king.

Let Quizz develop. He and Snelly both have the ability to make us a lot better if we can find our ability to boost them in from the 1 yard line! (It does require holes, not just mano a mano.) Quizz does have the juke ability which is just outrageous and really traps bigger guys into not being able to keep up, no matter how nimble they are.

I honestly think we’ll lose NOLA away or Giants (or both), but I’m not upset about that. Everyone has already given Peyton the MVP, and he looked inept (but coming back) against us. I just think the media is being retarded. If you didn’t see Siciliano on NFLam this morning, he announced on the air that soooo many Falcons fans had written him about “no respect.” His quote was “just because we don’t talk about you, doesn’t mean we don’t respect you.” I DARE HIM TO USE THAT LINE WITH HIS SIGNIFICANT OTHER. What a smarmy, weasel-like attempt at a very bad apology. Does he think we are stupid, too?

We have to step it up, whether next week or the rest of the season. Everyone else is being tested too. Again, I’m not hung up on perfection. Just getting the fundamentals right. (This means you, Dunta.) And the OL needs to step up again for the running game as it did diffuse pressure on the passing game.

Always will be proud to be a Falcon, but it is nice to have 53 + people making that much easier this year. RU ATL!

Blue Fender

November 6th, 2012
7:22 am

A win is a win!

Blue Fender

November 6th, 2012
7:22 am

A win is a win!

waynester

November 6th, 2012
8:08 am

I didn’t like what i saw last night. I saw a NO team that was on the verge of getting it’s act together and looking hungry for respect, too. We’ve got the better team this year but I sure hope nobody’s taking this next game for granted. Staying focused the rest of the season gets tougher with each passing week. Seems like our veterans are keeping things moving forward but the distractions are about to get multiplied exponentially. Getting recognized by the media isn’t always a good thing. Getting interviews on the sports shows, offers to do commercials, appearances etc etc can get into your head real easily if you let it…it’s simply human nature…our coaches and team leaders have to keep doing things the way they are now. Preaching the “humble but hungry” gospel and maintaining the tunnel vision needed to stay on task for the next opponent while drowning out the noise from outside(including US) is a hallmark of Smitty’s tenure. The next few months will really put our organization to the test…..

atlfalconsfan0125

November 6th, 2012
8:22 am

The NOLA D looked a lot better than it really is last night. All they did was blitz since Vick cant read defenses. If they try that against Matt, he will shred them.

If our D can get a couple stops on Brees (very tough thing to do), Matt and the boys can put the game away.

GregKennesaw

November 6th, 2012
8:31 am

The ain’t ‘D’ gave up 447 yards last night, they try to blitz Ryan like that on every down and he will eat them alive. Their ‘D’ is pitiful……….

atlfalconsfan0125

November 6th, 2012
8:55 am

1) It was a good win. We have to realize that since we are the only undefeated team left, we will get the best shot out of our opponents. Also, our previous opponents have been playing to save their season, so they werent gonna lay down. Im not worried about this team, not until the playoffs (but thats an whole other article)

2) Offense was good. They made the plays required to win. Not once did I feel the game slip away (although it did get a little close at the end). I felt like Matt and Co had control over the game the whole time. I would like more TD’s and less FG’s but a win is a win.

3) Yes. Roddy White is our old faithful. He didnt have the best start to his career, but he has a come a long way and its a good sight to see. Although, i think Julio Jones will take over someday, Roddy is still out number 1 receiver. Ring of Honor is a must.

4) Fast starts would be preferred, but they arent required to win. I like the offensive play-calling, its a huge upgrade from previous years. No complaints from me.

5) I think Dirk is trying to make Jacquizz into a Jones-Drew type back. Koetter knows how to use small backs and Jacquizz had a bright future, especially if he keeps catching passes and putting on sexy moves to move the chains.

6) I love the creativity and use of the available personell. I would love to cut down on the big plays. But I dont mind giving up yardage as long as points arent scored.

7)Everybody has an off day. Yea me missed two, but he a crucial FG at the end when it mattered. He still is Matty ICE II.

8.) Yes. It seems like Dent is getting better. Im hoping the upward trend continues.

9) It was a decent for the most part. But I saw at least two instances in which pass rushers got a clean un-blocked shot on Matt Ryan from his blind side. One of those was an untouched Ware, that is unacceptable. If we want playoff success, Matt Ryan needs to be protected.

10) The road schedule has been easier than the home schedule. We have played against opponents that simply cant matchup with us on the Road. I like the improvement on the road game though.

11)It is humorous, but I stopped caring a month ago. Let them talk, we will keep winning.

Go Falcons!

Zoomie

November 6th, 2012
9:00 am

That was a good, hard-fought win against Dallas. The ‘Boys came to play ball, they were convinced they were going to go home with the win, and they played hard. The Falcons did well to win this game. Not too worried about anything except the injuries starting to rack up. I think that’s where the Birds’ biggest problem is looming.

The O-line has actually started looking better in the last two games. Dallas’ D-line can make anyone look bad, so I think the Falcons’ O-line held their own for the most part. Don’t know if Nawlins’ D has clicked, or if the Eagles’ inept O-line made them look like world-beaters, but next week will give us more of an indication of how our O-line is doing. Nawlins is the Falcons biggest rival and they always bring something special to the table. Word’s out that Atlanta’s O-line is its offensive Achilles’ Heel. Nawlins will try to expoit.

At the same time, I can’t wait to see how Atlanta’s D plays the Aints; I have a feeling this is gonna be good. In Nolan I trust!

I’m just not worried about sports media’s “lack of respect” for the Falcons. What else are they gonna say? Week after week Atlanta blows their predictions, dashes their expectations, and hands yet another team favored by the media their collective arses. When the talking heads hang their hats on the franchise’s history, expecting the let-down every week, and it doesn’t materialize, they have no recourse but to revert back to their juvenile, school-yard, taunts: “Yeah, but they haven’t won a playoff game!” “Their opponent laid down.” “They haven’t beat anybody with a winning record.” “Their mama’s wear combat boots and their breath stinks!” “Waah, waah, waah, the Falcons are making me look like I don’t know what I’m talking about!” “Waah, waah, waah, my _______ hurts!”

If you look at it objectively and disregard the emotional component of being a Falcons fan, it’s actually pretty hilarious! Just enjot it, folks!

waynester

November 6th, 2012
9:04 am

Bryant’s been struggling with a bad back–to the point that we kept him out of practice working with the trainers. I don’t know if that was the problem Sunday but a back takes a while to get back to normal. I actually hope it IS something physical or mechanical. Those are correctable….

Zoomie

November 6th, 2012
9:21 am

Oh yeah, and make sure you’re mentally prepared for it: when Atlanta does finally lose a game, the team’s gonna get all the media attention it can stomach. There will be a lot of “I told you so!” “Same ol’ Falcons.” “Can’t beat the elites.” That sort of thing.

Just be prepared . . .

Chop Buster

November 6th, 2012
9:47 am

1) Simple Quick Slant – what’s your overall thoughts on the victory over the Cowboys and the Falcons general state of affairs? They do what’s necessary to win the game. Chris Carter tryed to give the Falcons some play on MNF by saying he believes the Falcons are for real. The thing he noticed is that they play each team differently than one style of defense. He said that will probably benefit the Falcons in the playoffs this year.

2) Thoughts on the offensive output vs. the Cowboys? I thought we came out very conservative and Mike Smith was determined to get the running game going. My personal belief is you loosen the defense with the pass and then when you have them on their heels, you go to the running game. We should have attacked them through the air, because I didn’t believe Dallas’ secondary was as good as people said. and it was proved as Roddy and Julio started to abuse them during the night. They may as well have jumped on their backs, as much as they were hanging all over our guys. Worried about the red zone woes? Not worried, but we definitely need to take the mindset of striking from the 30-40 range instead of waiting until the field shrinks in the red zone. When we do get down there, they still need to be creative to get the 7 points.

3) Is Roddy White the Atlanta Falcons best all-time receiver? His stats say he is, his leadership says he is, and his play on the field is definitely showing he’s the best all-time receiver. Destined for the Ring of Honor? I definitely think he is.

4) Do the Falcons have to start fast to play a great game? No, but you should do whatever it takes to get into a good rhythm–and they have done that at times. Your thoughts on the offensive play-calling vs. Dallas? Again, I think it was a little conservative and they gave Dallas’ 4th ranked defense too much respect. We need to have that aggressive killer mindset from the moment we get the ball. Julio and Roddy were fired up and we should have kept feed them the ball.

5) Is Jacquizz Rodgers purely a change of pace back or could he be something more? I would have to see more of him on the field, but I think he’d be no different than any other running back–more carries will get him into a rhythm. Turner is just too slow and has no change of direction (strictly North-South runner).

6) How impressed are you with Mike Nolan’s work so far? This guy’s leadership has been like night and day from BVG. We all know that we don’t have all the pieces on the defense, yet he’s getting these guys to play at a consistently high level. That’s a testament to his coaching. Anything he can have the defense doing better? No, other than get more dominant defensive players at the end of the year. I’m not going to second guess him, because he’s studied the film and knows how to best defend the teams they’re playing.

7) Concerned about Matt Bryant’s two misses going forward? No, I chalk it up to a bad night or something going on with the snapper and holder’s timing that game.

8.) Have some of your concerns regarding Akeem Dent started alleviate? He showed improvement and that’s all you can ask. Only more playing time will get him the experience he needs on the field.

9) Thoughts on how the OL played? We need to make some changes. If not this year, then the next. Put Holmes at LT, move Baker to RT, keep Konz at RG, bench Clabo, and replace McClure with someone younger and stronger (gets bull rushed too much). The RBs didn’t pickup Ware coming off the edge and allowed him to blow Ryan up. That’s inexcusible. Protect your QB at all cost–even if you have to hold or drag the guy to the ground.

10) Are the Falcons playing better on the road this season? Most definitely. They play like a team that has a mission and is going to get it done no matter where they’re playing. Strangely enough, like you mentioned earlier, they aren’t playing as well at home for some reason. You’d think that’s where we’d be blowing teams out.

11) How humorous is the media-elite’s obvious bias towards the Falcons? I’ve been a Falcon fan for many, many years and very well know the history of this team. We were never going to build a championship team because that wasn’t the Smith’s goal. I look at it this way, we are still going through the process that Smitty talks about: be relevant every year (get to the playoffs) and put yourself in position to compete for the Superbowl. Well we’ve done that three out of four years and this might be the year we take the next step to our ultimate goal. Media will jump on our bandwagon as soon as we become a yearly winner. After this year they won’t be able to use the “they haven’t won in the playoffs” excuse.

RISE UP FALCONS!!!

Matty Bicep

November 6th, 2012
9:49 am

1) Simple Quick Slant – what’s your overall thoughts on the victory over the Cowboys and the Falcons general state of affairs?

We are 8-0, with a 4 game lead. We are in position to get HF throughout the playoffs, the closest thing to a regular season trophy they have. We have our issues, but who does not?

2) Thoughts on the offensive output vs. the Cowboys? Worried about the red zone woes?

Struggled in the Red Zone, it comes and goes. Got the ball in the end zone when it counted the most.

3) Is Roddy White the Atlanta Falcons best all-time receiver? Destined for the Ring of Honor?

Yea, I will give it to him, not sure how long he hold it though.

4) Do the Falcons have to start fast to play a great game? Your thoughts on the offensive play-calling vs. Dallas?

Since blowing leads is not our MO, obviously getting the lead puts us in a big advantage…But we are too bad at coming back either. We did seem a little conservative, but no turnovers is nothing to be overlooked.

5) Is Jacquizz Rodgers purely a change of pace back or could he be something more?

Jacquizz is just starting to carve out his role, he needs more time on the field, I say he takes some HDs snaps and we use him as an outlet receiver. Defenses will have to account for him tight every play, and that will open up running lanes for Turner or Snelling.

6) How impressed are you with Mike Nolan’s work so far? Anything he can have the defense doing better?

Nolan is the maestro.

7) Concerned about Matt Bryant’s two misses going forward?

No, it was not like he was shanking them…Go ahead an get it out of his system. Remember the perfect season the Vikings kicker had in 98?

8.) Have some of your concerns regarding Akeem Dent started alleviate?
Yes, I sense good chemistry, all his teammates seem to really like him, and he even got a semi seal of approval from Nolan. I sense he is really really working hard on all aspects and wants it bad. He is the Anti Cam. He does not hang his head, I think he is a sponge and learns from his mistakes and may one day be an all pro. He is the little engine that could.

9) Thoughts on how the OL played?
Meh, ok since we played one of the better D lines in the league….Konz seems to be making a difference and giving Ice a place to step up.

10) Are the Falcons playing better on the road this season?
Yep, especially out doors.

11) How humorous is the media-elite’s obvious bias towards the Falcons?

Don’t hardly pay attention, totally insignificant. We wear the playoff failures, and the only way to get respect is to make a run there. We control our own perception.

Arno

November 6th, 2012
10:34 am

It was Yasinskas who said we fans desparately crave respect. He obviously hasn’t read this blog. As for Collinsworth, that guy should either be fired or forced to wear Cowboys gear– whichever is worse.

LRD

November 6th, 2012
11:00 am

2 concerns from the Cowboys that may become even more apparent in the Nola game.
1) Missing Spoon. Dent did well, but so many over the middle passes that I would think Spoon could have impacted. Nola running game.. we need Jerry back in the line up so that we have the rotation going, and we need Spoon in there to help stop the run.
2) Dunta: So far, no gripes with him until the Cowboys game.. where he was picked on by the Boys offense. Bad game? Maye… flashes of the past.. Maybe.. but you know Bree;s looking at film will see it and try to exploit it.

Overall.. very happy with the falcons. Could care less about the talking heads..and loved Quizz making potential tacklers look silly.

darrell starks

November 6th, 2012
12:43 pm

Good win by the Falcons.

Robert MacClain is balling, he have turn out the biggest surprise on this team so far this year.

Dent played okay this game but still have a long way go, still must see more from him.

Dunta had the worst game so far tis year ? Dunta has stop playing so far of WR, some time Dunta play around 15yards of his man, he must play up alot closer.

I like the 3man DT in the game at same time with 1 DE giving the Falcons more bulk up front.

GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

darrell starks

November 6th, 2012
12:52 pm

Julio when all said and done will be 1 of the best WR to ever play the game.

Im sorry HD have not showed me anything so far, Drew Davis just make this team more explosive i would see him more in the slot than HD.

Ice Man is getting more respect game by game, when he took that shot blind sided by the best defensive player in the game Demarcus Ware, he got right backup like nothing happen, if your not rooting for the Ice Man then your a hater.

Konz is beasting at RG making this OL much better.

GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!

darrell starks

November 6th, 2012
12:54 pm

I WANT SEND A SHOUT OUT 92.9 THE GAME

THE BEST SPORTS TALK SHOW ATLANTA.

GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vinson

November 6th, 2012
1:19 pm

The Falcon’s have a balance, solid team this season. There are only 2 columns in the NFL stat’s that truly reflect which team is the best team during the season (W or L). We are entering another week of football play and the Falcon’s are 8 – 0. It’s not rocket science, we are the best team in football at this point in the season. Check the win/lose column for the facts. You don’t have to be a sport’s writer to understand win’s and losses.

L.A. Mont

November 6th, 2012
1:30 pm

Great game Falcons! Enjoyed every moment from Section 319! Defense saved the game on the first two possessions by limiting the Cowboys to two FGs. Could have easily been down 10 or 14 points. Dallas got their one TD during a hurry-up offense when the Falcons couldn’t sub or set their D, and seemed winded. (Take note of that..expect the Saints to try that if Brees and Co. start slow.)

I’ve been very impressed with Matt Ryan’s pocket presence this year. He definitely looks much stronger and elusive when he needs to. Hanging in there and delivering strikes! And when he does get hit, he’s holding on to the ball. (Now he did fumble (understandbly) after a big hit on a sack, but good old Roddy came back to cover the fumble.) Good job #2.

He also seems to have really settled down from having those interceptions against Oakland. I think he was salivating the chance to burn the Oakland DBs and got ahead of himself. He’s been really solid the last 2 1/2 games, like he was the first 3 games.

Now let’s get healthy and get ready for the Saints! Can’t wait!!

DHunt

November 6th, 2012
2:20 pm

1) Overall thoughts: Great win. This year’s team has helped me to progress beyond the point where I agonize over every bogged down drive or defensive lapse. Sometimes that kind of thing can be indicative of major issues, but this Falcons team is showing that it can and will do what needs to be done to address and overcome deficiencies both in game and during the week. Against the Cowboys we couldn’t screen because their corners were playing press all night, so we gashed them over the top and on some nice crossing patterns. then we took advantage of their aggressiveness with Quizz on the edges. The points weren’t there, so it didn’t look as dominating, but the swagger and poise showed throughout the game in all phases.

2) Offensive output: Obviously could have been better. Even the two missed field goals would have changed the complexion of the game. Give Dallas some credit for performing like you would expect a top 5 defense to perform. The Falcons weren’t as aggessive as they could have been, but they were by no means conservative. They were careful, and that will be a good thing as we move along. Remember that playoff loss to Green Bay where careless play turned a close game into a debacle? That won’t happen again.

3) Roddy White Is the Atlanta Falcons best all-time receiver, and Destined for the Ring of Honor. Not to downplay the efforts of esteemed Falcons alum, but Roddy is the total package. Catches the ball all over the field. Is an absolute iron man. Unguardable on 3d down. As good a run blocking receiver as we’ve ever seen. And he is being instrumental in the development of the next generation JJ 11 who may prove to be even better.

4) Fast starts: Would be nice to score on the first six possessions of every game. Would be totally unreasonable to expect it. Strategy is a great thing until the bullets start flying. Then the test becomes whether or not we can improvise, adapt, and overcome. The other team came with a strategy as well. The Falcons offensive play calling has been so much better than I have ever seen it, that it’s hard to really criticize. I would still like to see a different rush strategy for Turner. Don’t know whether it’s counters, designed cutbacks, draws, or maybe lining him up closer to the line (ala the FB set looks we see occasionally) and letting him hit the holes quicker. That’s the one place where I can see a real need for improvement. A faster start for Turner and the rest of the run game would certainly benefit an already potent offense.

5) Jacquizz Rodgers is purely a talent that properly utilized can also make the Falcons far more potent. It’s been said repeatedly that the Falcons make you pick your poison. I defy any defense to stop everything we can possibly throw at them. Quizz performance on Sunday will certainly make defensive coordinators give much more consideration to stopping him. That’s one more thing they have to worry about. The more creative we can get with getting him involved, the more he will produce.

6) Mike Nolan’s a genius. And it’s worth repeating that this is his first year, and he hasn’t had a chance to put his stamp on the personnel or the total program. The defense has improved both as a unit and as individuals, which is certainly due in large part to Nolan. I am a little concerned that Dunta is not performing up to the standard I would expect from a starting CB. It’s been noted that he is better in press man coverage. But we see him far more in soft zone coverage. And this past week he simply got abused in that scenario. Not sure if this is a Dunta thing or an overall scheme thing that is necessary because of other factors. Maybe he just had a bad day. In Nolan we trust, so I expect he will do everything in his power to shore up that area.

7) Concerned about Matt Bryant? Not at all. In fact, I expect this glitch will cause him to focus even more, and perform at the high level we’ve come to expect of him. Both misses were close, so there doesn’t seem to be a major issue.

8.) Akeem Dent was never a concern for me. A lot of young guys get thrown in the fire and have a lot more reps to both make mistakes and develop skills and instincts. Dent has only had two games with significant playing time, and he has shown improvement from day one. If we can stay healthy he will not have to be a major focus of the defensive effort, but I’m confident that he will perform at a level that continues the overall theme of defensive improvement. Dallas has a pretty good offense as well, and we held them to 13 points. Everyone that played deserves big kudos for that kind of effort.

9) The OL played reasonably well for most of the game. Those free rushers were for the most part not a result of substandard individual play. We got out schemed, and Matt missed seeing it a couple of times. Obviously we’d like to see improvement in both pass and run blocking. But they aren’t getting worse, and that in itself is cause for guarded optimism. Konz is going to be a road grader once he gets in a groove, and builds up a bit more strength. His block at the goal line to get MT33 in the endzone was outstanding. The needle is pointing up overall where the OL is concerned.

10) On the road this season is certainly looking better than it has in some years past. The toughest road games are probably ahead of us. This team is built to succeed, and as long as they continue to take it up a notch on the road we should continue to see good things. The difference between road games and home games may be that they are more comfortable at home and perhaps don’t lock in the focus as much as they could/should. As we get closer to the playoffs, I see this team getting more focused and showing up with their A game, no matter where they might be playing. As good as we’ve been on the road, I still look forward to homefield advantage throughout the playoffs, and a Super Bowl game in NO would be something like a home game for the Falcons faithful.

11) The media is caught between a rock and a hard place with the Falcons. They gushed over the Falcons a little more in the 13-3 season, and were rewarded with the debacle in the dome. so their a bit ansty about putting their reputations on the line by becoming Falcons cheerleaders. You can be a Cowboys cheerleader, and then fall back on the line that the Boys just aren’t playing up to their potential, same thing for the Giants, Packers, and Patriots. How the Bears and 49′ers get a pass is beyond me, but I guess some people think because the franchise won in the 80’s and 90’s that means something in 2012.

I have been reading far more national coverage this year than I ever have in the past. I used to stick with the AJC, Bleacher report, and Pat Y for most of my Falcons media. Now I’ve got the Google feed set up to cull all the info that comes out on the Falcons. I’ve noticed over the past couple of weeks that the “haven’t won a playoff game” mantra is starting to die down a bit. The analysis is more about the current year and trying to figure out why we keep winning in spite of some glaring flaws. I read one today saying the Falcons weren’t anything like the 16-0 Patriots team, and that’s actually a pretty accurate statement. That team was an offensive juggernaut, with a passable defense and a proven coach. This Falcons team could be that good in the next couple of years, but it’s a work in progress right now.

Reading the national media can be useful in giving a different perspective on how we should look at the current manifestation of the Falcons. I’ve tuned out all the haven’t won in the playoff noise, because it’s rehashing a past that is not relevant and it’s nothing that can be addressed for the next two months anyway. The people who think a few other teams are “more complete” or significantly better, either have a good faith argument or are blatantly biased. It’s pretty easy to tell either way. One group we can win over, the other can kick rocks and pout when we prove them wrong.

D3

November 6th, 2012
2:35 pm

Great Tuesday Cage Family! — Great comments as we roll along at 8-0 and come upon “Hate Week.” Even though there’s a major dislike of the Kitties and the B(s)UCS, it holds no flame to the hatred we have for the sAINTS.

Vinson — Welcome to the Cage. That post is up for “post of the year.” Can’t say it any better. Just keep winning and ignore all the garbage.

LA Mont — We’re practically neighbors. Section 317 was rocking. Quite a few ‘Boys fans, but not nearly as many as I expected. They were pretty cordial this time. Last time they played in the GA Dome, they were obnoxious.

Chop — I agree with you on Turner. He’ll eventually get his “big run” each game, but does that mean we basically have to sacrifice a ton of 1 yard runs throughout the game and thus continually putting our passing offense in 3rd and long? Still think Snelling should get some more looks. Also completely agree with you on loosening the defense with the pass (our strength) and then ramping up our rushing attack.

Big Lou

November 6th, 2012
2:47 pm

waynester

I would have to disagree on your assessment on the New Orleans Saints. They made many mistakes last night… that a more mishap-happy Eagles team could not take advantage of. They were VERY lucky to win that game. Eagles threw a pick six in the redzone that changed the momentum in the first quarter, after getting down the field with absolute ease. Not to mention, the offensive line of the Eagles is atrocious compared to the Falcons. They allowed Vick to get sacked by the Saint’s subpar defensive line seven times…. yeah, seven freaking times.

In my opinion, our defense is way better and our offense is more efficient/doesn’t make mistakes. The Falcons should win by at least 10 points. Division opponent, or not.

I am more worried about our game versus the Tamp Bay Bucs, tbh.

D3

November 6th, 2012
2:52 pm

Stephen, Hitman, NorthbySoutheast, atlfalconfan — Welcome to the Cage fellas, if you’re new, if not, Welcome Back!

Arno — You’re exactly correct. What I meant to put in the article is that NO, we aren’t craving respect, we just want to see these @ss clowns be OBJECTIVE and IMPARTIAL, and stop using double standards when discussing the Falcons as opposed to any other team. We’re surely not the only one (the Lions, Vikings, Bucs, Dolphins, and several others come to mind), but it seems particularly egregious with the Falcons. We don’t give a d@mn about respect, just stop pretending that you’re anything other than a for-profit business that makes money off of drama and storylines in the same vein as “Entertainment Tonight” or “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” Drama sells, and our Atlanta Falcons are the anti-thesis of drama.

darrell — Agreed. Konz is doing well at RG. And I keep waiting for HD to be a part of this offense, but I just don’t see it happening. My buddy and I were talking about that very fact on Sunday Night. We came up with the idea that because Tony Gonzalez is so good, that maybe he takes up the entire middle and there’s only so much space and so many targets. Perhaps when Tony hangs it up, than HD will shine. But I agree, it’s frustrating because we know how talented he is. I still agree with your OL for next year…… LT-Holmes, LG – Blalock, C- Konz, RG – Clabo, RT – Baker. Hawley, Reynolds, Johnson, and one more.

LRD — Sorry didn’t meet up, we’ll get there one day. There must have been more ‘boys fans in your section because their was a decent amount in ours, but nothing outrageous. I’ve learned to come to expect the traditional teams (Cowboys, Giants, Bears, Packers, etc) are going to pack it out b/c there’s so many transplants down here that will pay whatever it takes to get to the game.

LRD

November 6th, 2012
2:58 pm

Y’all see Don Banks mid season review??

MOST OVERLOOKED STORYLINE — The 8-0 Falcons go where no Falcons team has gone before, and a football nation yawns: I know we’ve gotten a bit jaded by all the perfect season runs we’ve had in recent years (Packers, Patriots, Saints, Colts, etc….), but wouldn’t it be crazy if this was the year the crotchety old 1972 Dolphins finally had to keep the cork in the champagne bottle? I know, we’re a long way from 19-0 in Atlanta, but hey, you gotta start somewhere. And let’s throw a little credit to the Falcons for their gutsy move of hiring two new coordinators despite being a playoff team in three of the past four years. Dirk Koetter on offense and Mike Nolan on defense didn’t sound like masterstrokes to me when they signed on, but something’s working like a charm for Mike Smith’s resilient team.

DHunt

November 6th, 2012
3:00 pm

Blog monster ate my homework. I know it was a little extra but I really worked hard on it.

Big Lou

November 6th, 2012
3:01 pm

1) Simple Quick Slant – what’s your overall thoughts on the victory over the Cowboys and the Falcons general state of affairs?

Tough win–showed moxie. I love the fact that these Falcons are undefeated, but still playing mistake free football… and with a chip on their shoulder.

2) Thoughts on the offensive output vs. the Cowboys? Worried about the red zone woes?

No. Cowboys have one of the best defenses in the league. They have held many opponents on scores. The game plan was obviously make it an old school grind out and it worked. As far as the red zone issues, it happens. I think the Falcons still ran down the field easily throughout the game.

3) Is Roddy White the Atlanta Falcons best all-time receiver? Destined for the Ring of Honor?

Yes, for now.

4) Do the Falcons have to start fast to play a great game? Your thoughts on the offensive play-calling vs. Dallas?

It seems that way so far, but they had a great game versus Carolina(defense did not)… and they did not start fast. I think the offensive play-calling made sense. You are going against one of the best secondaries in the league, who have a dominant pressure package. The game plan was to obviously take advantage of the weak interior LB core they have and run the ball, while setting up the play action pass/dink and dunk plays. They just did not execute in the red zone. Falcons racked up over 300 yards passing, and 100 yards rushing… yeah, I think the game plan was fine.

5) Is Jacquizz Rodgers purely a change of pace back or could he be something more?

Obviously more. We are starting to use him that way. Sproles Jr.

6) How impressed are you with Mike Nolan’s work so far? Anything he can have the defense doing better?

I have been preaching Mike Nolan since day one and he has not disappointed. I feel he could do better on protecting the run, which we will get a huge test versus the Saints. Also, Kudos with being able to still run a defense effectively with people out. No Sean W. or P. Jerry(half the game)…. and the Falcons had a really good defensive game versus a potent Dallas offense.

7) Concerned about Matt Bryant’s two misses going forward?

Depends on his health. I rather it happen now then in the playoffs.

8.) Have some of your concerns regarding Akeem Dent started alleviate?

Always said that we need to give him a year before running him out of town. Some people are just too impatient for that. But this is football, and it takes time to learn things, especially when you have to play out of your natural position.

9) Thoughts on how the OL played?

Matt Ryan admitted that the sack Ware game him was his fault. Either than that, the offensive line did alright. Dallas has a really good defensive line, and sacks are going to happen versus that team. They did a much better job on the running game late. Konz is looking like the right move.

10) Are the Falcons playing better on the road this season?

Yes, and I am loving it.

11) How humorous is the media-elite’s obvious bias towards the Falcons?

I think it’s a good thing, to be honest. The more they doubt the Falcons, the bigger their chip gets. I hope they are screaming angry when the playoffs come around.

D3

November 6th, 2012
3:03 pm

LRD — Good point. And to be fair, there are a few “experts” that talk positively about the Falcons including Jimmy Johnson, Steve Mariucci, Jon Gruden, and even Trent Dilfer has been positive about the Falcons, particularly Matt Ryan, but by and large they’re the tiny minority. Even Pat Y can’t help himself from throwing in some type of jab when writing a positive story about the Falcons.

D3

November 6th, 2012
3:04 pm

DHunt, Big Lou, London Falcon — All your posts are out.

DHunt

November 6th, 2012
3:04 pm

Disregard that last comment…

LRD

November 6th, 2012
3:11 pm

D3. Lets plan on the Cardinal game… email me where/when and my wife and I will pop by..

LRD

November 6th, 2012
3:18 pm

One more from Banks… should have put it up wiht the first one…
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER — Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta: Peyton Manning is making an impressive case for himself week by week, but Ryan has been the best player on the league’s best team in the first half, and that still defines the MVP requirements for me. His play has been both consistent and clutch, and Atlanta’s 8-0 record speaks volumes.

LRD

November 6th, 2012
3:20 pm

Crap.. this one didnt cut/paste ( and now I am done for the day)
OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR: Dirk Koetter, Atlanta: The Falcons’ new offensive coordinator has instilled an aggressive, pedal-to-the-metal approach and it’s working. Using the same players that former Falcons OC Mike Mularkey had at his disposal, Koetter is getting much more explosive results, and eye-popping production out of quarterback Matt Ryan, receiver Julio Jones and tight end Tony Gonzalez.
( and we all have been saying the same thing… bye bye Mularkey)

BullDogMike

November 6th, 2012
3:29 pm

How can Falcons win against Saints. when we have Dunta Robinson as a starter? Answer : They can’t. He can’t cover a really good college receiver.

snacktastic

November 6th, 2012
4:03 pm

For all the ugly wins we’ve had this season, I won’t mind one bit if we look like garbage and still pull out a win against the Saints next week. Of course, I’d rather we went down there and shredded them in front of their own fans (D3: How about “Birds Shred Saints” for next week’s headline?), but the one thing I cannot accept is a loss. Not to them.

tdawgmom

November 6th, 2012
4:04 pm

I was at the game Sunday night and loved watching my Falcons win! It has bothered me that the sports media hasn’t seen fit to give us our due, but what the heck? Who cares what most of those knuckleheads think? If Matt Ryan doesn’t care, why should I? Just appreciate being a fan of such a stand up team.

waynester

November 6th, 2012
4:26 pm

Looks like Konz is going to be getting a lot more PT with Reynolds going on IR. I think he’s up to it….

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Sick & Tired Of Being Sick & Tired

November 6th, 2012
5:15 pm

D3 – Great Article and it was a great win for the Falcons against the Cowboys.

One of the issues that I wished you had addressed and questioned the Bird Cage about is whether or not Dominique Franks should continue to be the team’s primary punt returner??????

He just seems lost the majority of the time and his decision making ability has the potential to really put the team in a bad spot in terms of field position. Not sure if Harry Douglas should be used due to the potential for injury, but with Drew Davis showing promise as the slot receiver, HD should be seriously considered by the special teams coach and Smitty.

snacktastic

November 6th, 2012
5:20 pm

@Sick: I heard Smitty’s interview on the radio yesterday, and he mentioned that the emphasis on punt returns is to make sure the ball ends up in our possession, and not necessarily to pick up extra yards.

Confused? Me too.

The special teams coach is supposed to be on the radio later this week, so I’ll be interested in what he has to say. I agree with you about HD, though–I still think HD belongs in the slot, but given how rarely he’s targeted (correct me if I’m wrong on that), it might best if we put him on punt returns and put Davis in the slot.

JB Falcon

November 6th, 2012
5:22 pm

Sick, somehow Franks and punt returner doesn’t fit into the same sentence. Try punt catcher. And yes, you’re not the only one wondering about that.

Birdman

November 6th, 2012
5:35 pm

Good Voters Evening Cage.

Saints game is scary as always
How is Weatherspoon doing ? Anyone heard ?

If you have not done it already GO VOTE !!!!

God gave us a great Country .So please vote for the people you want to run it.

God Bless & Go Falcons !!!!!!

McNasty

November 6th, 2012
7:14 pm

D3,it all comes down to how well Matty Ice plays.If he can continue to make the Quizz reads, and the zone vs. single coverage reads AND getting it there on time, we will be good. However somebody (not New Orleans) will figure something out and will give us a loss
Our coaching staff has been better than our opponents. Its called creativity and experience working with specific player talents, each week.
We had the talent last year.

Lets do away with “Smitty Ball’, “Boy Genius” and all those other derogatory characterizations, because this is GREAT @ 8.0

Matty Bicep

November 6th, 2012
7:15 pm

Heard Spoon is game time decision. If in doubt, they outta let him sit. Not sure about Franks either, on the plus side, he hangs onto the ball.

Paddy O

November 6th, 2012
8:00 pm

tough to really complain being 8-0; only real failure was getting into red zone and Bryants odd misses – still see the snapper and Bosher having communication/coordination problems in this game. Still don’t understand the purpose of running early between the tackles. We don’t gain much from it – and I certainly would NOT do it on the 1st possession of the game. No FB tonight – bummer – hope all you folks voted!

waynester

November 6th, 2012
8:05 pm

Speaking of Special Teams–this Estonian DE from SMU, Margus Hunt, has blocked like a dozen or so kicks–he’s 6′8, 280lbs and raw but an awesome STs prospect and potentially awesome edge-rusher. Most projections have him as a 2nd-3rd rounder but CBSSports loves him as a round 1 surprise….

JB Falcon

November 6th, 2012
8:07 pm

MB, I’d love to have Spoon back this week, especially playing against Lofton and also hope Dent has a breakout game. But, you are right about letting Spoon recover completely. We will need him more later on this year.
Franks! I don’t know. According to what has been posted, evidently MS is aware of his performance and satisfied with it, as far as he doesn’t fumble. I got ticked at Weems last year but he at least tried, and ran a few back. Maybe MS is letting this 8-0 go to his head?

Unca' Bob

November 6th, 2012
8:49 pm

JB Falcon,

Maybe MS is letting this 8-0 go to his head?

Coach Smith is mister detail. The only thing he lets go to his head is the love and respect he has for our football team. And it’s paid back in spades to him by our team. I started out in life with nothing. I have most of it left.

JB Falcon

November 6th, 2012
9:15 pm

I started out in life with nothing. I have most of it left.

Okay UB, I’m glad I didn’t have a mouthful of beer when I read that! I told a friend today, who is 72, that I used to swim upstream and fight the system trying to make a living, but now I sit on the bank and watch it all flow down the river and say “Wow, look at that!”
I have no idea what MS is thinking. I just sit, watch, and wonder.

Matty Bicep

November 6th, 2012
9:15 pm

A great punt returner is a nice thing to have, but not a must. If you got a guy who can field the ball consistently there is no reason to tinker around and start putting unproven guys out there and start getting cute.

Chop Buster

November 6th, 2012
9:16 pm

D3 (2:35) post: that’s why I knew the insistent running of Turner earlier on was Smitty’s determination to get the running game going. Nothing wrong with wanting a strong running game, like I said, just do it have to get them down scoring early and often, then go to the run. Turner and Jacquizz could have a breakout day against the Aints run defense. I’m really hoping our offense has a serious aerial attack against that weak secondary of theirs.

falcon21

November 6th, 2012
9:31 pm

That’s right Matty, Franks is as unproven as they come.

Geo

November 6th, 2012
9:32 pm

NFL Replay on NFL Network will show the Dallas-Atlanta game at 9 ET tomorrow. If they include an after-game interviews, you’ll notice that the Falcons are getting the respect they deserve from those that matter — the players and coaches of the opposition.

JB Falcon

November 6th, 2012
9:44 pm

A great punt returner is a nice thing to have, but not a must.-MB
That is true, but would you rather have Weems or Franks. I figure if you have a chance to get your team ahead? you take it. Of course, that’s just me. I figure if you are 8-0 you can easily lose a game because you did not use every player to their full capacity.

Ken Strickland

November 6th, 2012
9:59 pm

MRyan is as good as QBs ARogers, DBrees, Eli and Payton Manning, and TBrady at disecting DEFs when given the same amount of time in the pocket. I’m really worried about RT TClabo. He looked very stiff and seemed to lack mobility when trying to pass block. If he continues to struggle, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him being replaced by LHolmes.

It that happens, it will give Holmes a chance to get the experience he needs before getting the nod next yr at LT.

Matty Bicep

November 6th, 2012
10:06 pm

I am not sold on Franks, but he has not dropped the ball, not saying he won’t, but so far so good. Weems? What he’s gone. The discussion is do we stick with Franks, start trying somebody else, or find someone on the street. Looks like CS is sticking with Franks…As long as he hangs onto the ball, I am OK with it.

JB Falcon

November 6th, 2012
10:21 pm

KS, why not try Holmes now? He has had enough time to recouperate. We can afford to lose a game or two an we will.
MB, I agree to disagree. If we can do better? Do it.
IMPROVE upon what you have, why not?

falcon21

November 6th, 2012
10:21 pm

I’m not good with it Matty, Franks still lets punts drop in front of him that he should catch and it would save about 10 to 15 yards of field position.

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falcon21

November 6th, 2012
10:41 pm

I agree JB on Holmes, put him in now while we still have time to see what he can do. If it don’t work out, oh well, it’s time to find out now. Later man.

Big Ray

November 6th, 2012
10:56 pm

The Talking Heads….

Well, listened to D. Orlando Ledbetter as a guest on a local ESPN radio host….and now I see partially why the national talking heads do and say what they do…

Ledbetter picked nearly half a dozen teams to be more legit than the Falcons and said it was because the Falcons weren’t blowing teams out.

That’s all I needed to hear…you let the local guy lead you around by the nose, Ledbetter…just because his show is on the ESPN network or because you are the reincarnatino of “Radio”?

Disgusting….local media anything but supportive…

Big Ray

November 6th, 2012
11:07 pm

I would like to see what we have in Lamar Holmes. But realize that he doesn’t necessarily have the pedigree and/or seasoning that Konz has had, and therefore might have a steeper learning curve.

We see that he’s massive, we see he’s strong. But we haven’t seen him play against first string NFL defenders and we don’t know how he does with his blocking assignments. Being strong in college is about all it takes. In the NFL, you better come with a lot more than that. Technique means a lot.

If Holmes has to toil in obscurity under the tutelage of Pat Hill for a year and it yields dividends down the road in short order, then all well and good.

Would I rather see him get some seasoning the way Konz is right now? Sure. But that doesn’t mean it’s the best thing right now, and remember…for each rookie you have on the line, that’s one less veteran to help hold it together when Ryan needs the protection. Just sayin’….

Big Ray

November 6th, 2012
11:11 pm

I don’t know HOW we improve on the punt returning stuff right now. Franks is less than satisfactory, but it is what it is. You have to be SURE you’re upgrading in that area before you make a move. One way to do it is let HD return punts. At first I didn’t like that but a couple of things changed my view on that somewhat:

1) Drew Davis filling in well on offense.

2) JaQuizz Rodgers growing into his role and getting mad YAC on screen and other passes.

So if we’re going to improve punt returns, go with HD if he can return anytime soon. If not, I couldn’t tell you where to go with that one.

Franks isn’t fumbling, even if he doesn’t seem to know what to do half the time when the ball comes. Maybe Antone Smith? Hell, I don’t know….I’m sure James Rodgers (Quizz’s brother) could use a job…

Ken Strickland

November 6th, 2012
11:58 pm

JB FALCON-You know Smitty is a company man and won’t likely make another OL change just 2 gms after making his 1st OL change. With us being undefeated at this juncture, I’m not sure he’d want to replace a seasoned vet like Clabo with a rookie. However, if Clabo’s struggles continue against New Orleans’ poor DEF, then he could end up being replaced.

I’ve noticed that teams that rotated their best outside pass rushers from side to side have been very successful by taking advantage of Clabo’s pass blocking issues. The Cowboys did it with DE Ware and the Panthers did it with DE CJohnson.

Matty Bicep

November 6th, 2012
11:59 pm

LIke I said, Franks has not killed us, I guess why not try someone else. Not even agreeing to disagree, I really have an opinion other than defaulting to Smitty, right or wrong.

As far as holmes, my only question is does he know the blocking schemes, can he pick up the calls and understand his assignment. I am not as concerned about him getting beat as I am having him screw up. It is not like we are desperate and thinking about rebuilding….but an argument can be made to get him out there now in case we have an injury and need him later. I guess we will see him when Smitty is feels he is ready.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
12:03 am

The think about Clabo, we can get him help, and Ryan knows what he can and can’t do. Last think we need it Ryan thinking his tackle knows what to do, and blows an easy assignment and gets Ryan hurt. Again, I think Pat Hill and Ryan both have input too.

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
5:35 am

Matty Bicep ,

That was kinda my point about Holmes…

John Waynesworld

November 7th, 2012
7:27 am

1. I’m glad I didn’t sell my gold.

2. Konz was spectacular last Sunday against what should probably be the 2nd best D line we will face this year. Reynolds injury may be a great break in retrospect for our O line’s future as Phillipkeith Manley will get some real NFL reps. Another huge man that Coach Hill can work with to protect our Franchise QB after he re-signs. If Holmes is as good as scouted by our brain trust, learns his position and stays healthy, we may have skirted the necessity for using a high draft pick on our O line, at least in the near future.

D3

November 7th, 2012
10:40 am

Birdman, Ken — Sorry guys, no politics.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
10:44 am

Thank you D3

Big Lou

November 7th, 2012
12:14 pm

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/blog/nfl-rapidreports/20853823/falcons-midseason-awards-matt-ryan-running-away-with-mvp

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
12:19 pm

Saw the Falcons, Smitty, Koetter, Nolan. and Ryan all got some love in the mid season report on SI.

Ryan MVP
Koetter OC of year
Smitty and Nolan get Honorable Mention
Falcons 8-0 most overlooked story.

Now, lets keep it going.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
12:23 pm

One other interesting tidbit, other than the 49ers, our rookies have logged the least plays of any other team. If can be viewed two way, one is we have a poor rookie class, or, we have a solid team and don’t need to throw rookies into the fire. Since two of the top 5 teams in the league lead this category, I will go with the latter reason. Plus, we gave we have the JJ factor, and although I was not a fan, I am starting to come around. I guess the big issue is, we did not have holes to fill, hats off to TD.

LRD

November 7th, 2012
12:44 pm

waiting to see the injury report release.. see what we have listed vs reality i guess.

As far as Franks.. I would go with the argument that having such faith in your O that you can afford to fair catch punts is not exactly a bad thing. Would I love to see 20yd plus returns, well of course I would. I would rather not have a forced turnover and leaving our D on the field longer than they need to be.
And so glad to see Peters back in the line up… Babs had a ton of tackles against the Boyz.. was that due to him? Or was it do to having Peters back in the line up?

Zoomie

November 7th, 2012
12:45 pm

Hmmm. Lousaka Polite cut by the Falcons in favor of Mike Cox.

Guess that uncharacteristic public display of displeasure MR2 unleashed on Lou after he dropped a wide-open pass in the Dallas game was a culmination in built-up frustration with Lou’s lack of production.

So, does this help the running game? I didn’t think Polite played particularly well, but then again, I haven’t seen a lot out of Cox either.

Are we livving to regret Mughelli’s release?

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
1:04 pm

Babs had a ton of tackles against the Boyz…..I think it was due to him lining up at the end position as part of the 3 tackle alignment….I think Ovie never fully recovered from the knee, I would assume they had him in too to evaluate, if Ovie was interested. And yea, I do believe him drawing MR2s ire was the end. As I mentioned before, I think MR2 has a lot of input into game plans, and in this case, even personal than your average QB. I think the coaches look at MR2 as a peer.

Die Hard Falcon

November 7th, 2012
1:15 pm

I believe the Falcons are going to be fine on the red zone issues, I think Dallas is one of the top defensive teams in the league, my bigger concern is short yardage, we NEED to be able to get 1 yard on 3rd or 4th and 1’s, it will be critical at some point.
I disagree w/ some about using Turner early and often, it’s very frustrating to me as well to have all those 1 yard gains early, but it keeps the defense honest, opens up our passing game more and if you look at his YPC on his first 10 carries in a game compared to his 2nd 10, you’ll see that it pays off in the 2nd half of games and has helped us win a couple of our closer games this year.
As for Quizz, I see him only as a change of pace back, I don’t think he’ll ever be a 3 down horse for us, but still glad to have him catching the 3rd down screens

Go Falcons!!!

Wings

November 7th, 2012
1:22 pm

MB – “If can be viewed two way, one is we have a poor rookie class, or, we have a solid team and don’t need to throw rookies into the fire.”

There is a third reason. It is HC Smith doesn’t believe in changing things and has no confidence in using “rookie” players. He is very stubborn when it comes to making a change. Just look at M Turner.

LRD

November 7th, 2012
1:33 pm

Turner probably misses Ovie more than anyone… I am hoping Cox can clear some bigger holes, and this could be a sign that we will see more Turner on Sunday against NOLA… beat them into submission, chew up the clock, keep Bree’s off the field.

Big Lou

November 7th, 2012
1:46 pm

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-blog/2012/11/07/atlanta-falcons-fullback-polite-cut-mike-cox-re-signed/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_falcons_blog

You don’t drop easy passes from Matty Ice… OR YOU GET THE CAN!

In all seriousness, the guy wasn’t anything special. Remember the blocking assignment he screwed up on that lead to a Ryan sack during the second half against Dallas? Don’t let the door hit you on the azz on your way out. Hopefully Cox getting cut allowed him to get motivated enough to make some strides for the rest of the season.

As for Ovie, do you see him playing anywhere else? I mean, teams that can run the ball can use a bruiser like him. The injury probably ended his career.

It seems that the FB helps our Oline block, more than our RB. Why? We don’t have to pull a lineman to block the LB in the gap with a FB. It could explain why Turner’s best runs this season has came from running the outside. instead of between the tackles.

I am starting to see that Turner’s production is more on the offensive line, then him. The FB play is the key. Ever since Ovie got hurt, Turner’s production decreased overall. This is why the screen game and check-downs will be so important for us this year. I have a feeling that the running game will never be the same…

Big Lou

November 7th, 2012
2:01 pm

“There is a third reason. It is HC Smith doesn’t believe in changing things and has no confidence in using “rookie” players. He is very stubborn when it comes to making a change. Just look at M Turner.”

To be honest, I feel it is on the offensive line more than Turner. They get absolutely NO push up the field, and Tuner is not a cutting back. I find it hard to believe it’s only him, when Snelling and Rodgers have the same issues with running between the tackles.

I do see a little Mike Woodson(stubbornness) in him, but Mike Smith has played many rookies immediately after drafting them, so the argument is invalid. Offensive lines are harder to start for rookies than most positions, due to the fact that your getting hit every play. It isn’t like receiver, RB, ect… where you can have a bad play(bad route), and it doesn’t really affect your teammate’s health(Matt Ryan). So, I understand why he would be timid to put a rookie in to block for him franchise QB. Heck, look at what happened with Polite… missed block = Matt Ryan on the turf.

D3

November 7th, 2012
2:30 pm

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-blog/2012/11/07/atlanta-falcons-players-find-national-media-skeptical-of-their-success/

I’m glad the players see it too, because sometimes I feel that we as fans see or feel things that the players, coaches, etc. don’t. But they’re right there along with it. If Mike Smith is a smart man (which of course he is) he would be using the “us against them / the world” theme because it actually does apply in this case, unlike when you run an illegal, injurous, immoral, unethical, scheme…..get caught and act like a bunch of whiny @ss crybabies………..doesn’t apply. When you put yourself in that said situation, you can’t use “us against the world.” It’s like someone who commits a crime using the “vast, global conspiracy against me” BS.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
2:48 pm

There is a third reason. It is HC Smith doesn’t believe in changing things and has no confidence in using “rookie” players. He is very stubborn when it comes to making a change. Just look at M Turner.

Well, as a rookie coach he started a rookie QB, a rookie LT, and a Rookie MLB. So, i don’t see the evidence to back up you assertion that is will not start rookies. Oh yea, i think JJ started as a rookie too.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
2:58 pm

Being stubborn is probably the single most common characteristic head NFL coaches have. But guy who are stubborn to a fault lose the team. MT? All the guy does is average 4+ per carry and put up 1300 yards every season, so it is hard to argue with the Macro picture.

Playoffs? Well, the past is the past, and I will wait on critiquing his playoff performance this year until we least until they actually play a playoff game.

If we get beat 24-2 again and he turner gets 25 touches for 56 yards, I will agree with you, but I don’t think that it gonna happen.

Ken Strickland

November 7th, 2012
2:59 pm

I think the latest turn of events at FB, coupled with our issues with rushing the ball with consistency, demonstrates how vital OMughelli was to our overall OFF. Apparently, as well a unfortunately, he has yet to fully recover from his injury. The type of rushing OFF that we run, which is concentrated primarily between the OTs, requires a FB with exceptional vision and blocking ability.

On that play where Ware dropped the hammer on MRyan, it was Polite’s responsibility to block him. Ware was by him before Polite even reacted. In fact, Polite was so out of position when Ware blew by him he was unable to even get a holding or take down penality. Our OL did do a good job of picking up the blitz, but our OTs and FB had their share of difficulty containing the outside rush.

D3-You really had me going there for a minute. You got on BIRDMAN and I for getting political, but I couldn’t find BIRDMAN’S nor my response. Then I realize you removed them. No problem, it’s all good. The AINTS/TAINTS will be our 1st real test of the season, but not because they’re better than any team we’ve played so far. Beating us might be the only thing left to salvage for their season.

It’s because they’re playing us, their most hated rival, and this gm is make or break for them. Although the circumstances are different, the emotions will be about the same as it was when they played us on Monday night football in New Orleans the yr they won the Superbowl. Back then they were the victims of Katrina, and now they think they’re the victims of the NFL system.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
3:02 pm

And yes, changing OL men is a slow process, unless a guy walks in day 1 and gets all the snaps it is best to take your time unless you have a gaping hole that needs filling. Konz had to lean a new position, and a new OL coach had to evaluate everyone. And as bad as our OL was last year, we gave up 26 sacks, that is not too bad, ask Jay Cutler.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
3:08 pm

Yea, NO is going to be a test for sure, rest assured, they still think they can make the playoffs, and Drew Brees looks as good as ever. I hope Spoon is back.

Sick & Tired Of Being Sick & Tired

November 7th, 2012
3:16 pm

Hopefully Cox will be able to contribute quickly as the FB. Polite WAS the player who missed that block on DeMarcus Ware that almost got Ryan buried into the turf against the Cowboys.

Ovie was cut by the Rams back in August, he is still a free agent, and no other team has signed him. So there might be some truth to the rumor that he’s still not able to play at 100%.

I’d like to see the Falcons get enough of a lead in some of these games so that the back-ups can gain some valuable playing experience.

Zoomie

November 7th, 2012
3:42 pm

RE: the Nawlins Taints giving the Falcons all they can handle:

This is where I expect Nolan to earn his pay. If his defensive scheming can’t slow down the Taints any better than BVG did, I’m going to be a little upset.

Nolan had a special welcome party for P. Manning. I expect him to to break out the secret cook book for Breez and da Boyz as well.

We just can’t take a loss to what is racking up to be one of the historically-worst defenses in the history of the league . . .

Don’t let us down, Mike! Beat dem Taints!

Paddy O

November 7th, 2012
4:25 pm

Interesting. I was not the only one beginning to wonder about the value of Polite. If Polite was supposed to block Ware on the freight train run over of MR2, AND failed in that off the side rush to MR2 left later in the game, plus dropped an easy pass – it is not surprising we released him. BL: I think most folks are arguing that running between the tackles – with anybody considering our weak middle of the line blocking – is fairly stupid. why do the coaches keep calling that play? Quizz got crushed on one such play call. However, you did pin point a Turner problem – he is not agile; and from my perspective, looks like molasses. However, a late game draw worked as did runs off tackle. Perhaps we are setting them up for later in the game?

Wings

November 7th, 2012
4:25 pm

BIg Lou you are exactly right about Polite. He wasn’t anything special.

About the same as having one of the offensive lineman in the backfield and we saw how that worked.

Wings

November 7th, 2012
4:30 pm

Paddy O I think the problem is when we run Turner up the middle early in the game especially on first down. It also happens quite often after a long pass play and there the power run formation is. All of the teams recognize it just as the teams did last year; just as the fans recognize it. It is fairly stupid. It would work better if Turner carried the ball when it is not expected.

Birdman

November 7th, 2012
4:31 pm

Good day Cage

I hope all are well and have had a Blessed day.

Zoomie.

Seams that Oakland had a bad D also but look how they did against the Birds . Not saying the Saints are better on the D but they did pretty good against the Eagles and seem to be getting better . They held them to less points than the Falcons did.

We were to face a hungry team in the Eagles But did not happen . The same was said about the Cowboys but did not happen. But this time its the Very Hungry Saints and its got trap game wrote all over it. I hope not but the Birds may take there first loss this Sunday

DHunt

November 7th, 2012
4:33 pm

Moving on to the Saints this early in the week is a good sign in the Cage. Means we may be micro-analyzing last week a bit less, which could mean there is less to be concerned about.

In re: those sAints, I’m not going into this game with any kind of must win attitude. One thing about playing teams with losing records is that they are all desperate teams. They have to win to even have a chance to stay in the picture for the playoffs. That can bring out the best (or worst) in teams and coaches. The Falcons, on the other hand, need to concentrate on staying even keeled, and continuing to play at a high level. Combine all that with being on the road against the most hated rival we have, and this game is a toss up. I expect the Falcons will come out and compete hard, and we’ll let the chips fall where they may.

The problem with looking at this game any other way is that you tend to fall into that same trap most of the national media is in. One win or one loss is not going to define our season. That may have been the case at some point, but the Falcons should have progressed beyond that stage of their development by now. Case in point, the Giants lost to Pittsburg last week, but you didn’t hear a single “sky is falling” peep out of anyone. I can almost guarantee that if the Falcons don’t win this Sunday, they headlines will all be focused on what the sAints could potentially do to stay in the playoff picture, or perhaps even creep back into the conversation for a division title. The Falcons are the only team that can take one loss and have that kind of press predominate. Let’s not fall into that rut here in Cageland.

Ray Bu made a comment on 790 today that the Falcons need to really bury a few opponents to get other teams worried about playing them. Dominating wins are great, but that doesn’t necessarily equate to instilling a bigger fear factor in upcoming opponents. This is the NFL and any team that approaches any game with anything other than an absolute confidence that they can pull out a win is doomed from the outset. I think that rarely happens. I also think the Falcons will have a target on their backs no matter how they win, because they are the front runners right now. Everyone wants to knock the king off the hill. That’s about far more than beating last year’s Superbowl champion, or a perennially good franchise that may or may not be performing up to snuff in the current year.

Birdman

November 7th, 2012
4:37 pm

D3 all is well !!

God Bless you Brother

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
6:14 pm

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/jason-whitlock-nfl-atlanta-falcons-matt-ryan-110612

Jason Whitlock = idiot. Clearly the man has no concept of a solid offensive line…the only set of positions he does not mention in this article while talking about the Falcons and Ryan.

Perhaps I was a bit harsh….no idiot deserves to be insulted so badly by being associated with Whitlock…

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
6:23 pm

Big Lou has it right, and I was complaining about Polite during and after the Dallas game.

Dude blew blocking assignments in addition to stalling a drive with the dropped pass.

Do we miss Mughelli? Yeah, a way better blocker than Polite and fairly well solid on catching passes (but limited there as well). We don’t miss him at $4 mil for a year, though. Besides, FB won’t fix what’s wrong with the OL, especially when that position isn’t used as much anymore.

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
6:25 pm

Ready for the Saints. This will not be an easy game, those guys (particularly Brees) will never quit like Philly did. They do think they can get back into the playoffs and so do all the talking heads.

Let’s put a dent in those plans…

Big Lou

November 7th, 2012
7:05 pm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5jtR8nFuug

Cool video special on Matt Ryan when we were 4-0. Quality is a bit choppy, but it was pretty good.

Paddy O

November 7th, 2012
7:56 pm

I’m hoping we bury a few opponents just for GP. I read whitlocks article – that guy has tunnel vision – or, does not watch the Falcons every week. I thought and still do that letting Ovie go over his contract burden a good idea. I thought Cox did a nice job last year. STill assert Snelling would be serviceable as a FB – and, he can catch. I’d really like to knock Brees out of the game with some nice shots – and, I like Brees – a lot better before his Saints hitch. If we can get good pressure – and see some more of that Peyton Manning type D, we should man handle the Saints fairly well. I’d really hate to lose to them.

Paddy O

November 7th, 2012
7:58 pm

anybody watch NFL network’s “fantasy football” segments? If so, I can’t figure out why Jamie Maggio is so good looking. Any here explain it?

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
9:01 pm

Paddy O ,

Agreed on all accounts.

I actually understand Whitlock for what he is…he makes his bread off of being controversial…that’s his style. If he’s not being controversial, nobody is paying attention to him. Media types…they must have all been the runt fo the litter or something…

JB Falcon

November 7th, 2012
9:11 pm

“runt” Haven’t heard that word in a while!

falcon21

November 7th, 2012
9:50 pm

Re-watching the game again, anyone that don’t think Ryan is a top 4 QB must be Saints fan, The man is a master at what he does!

JB Falcon

November 7th, 2012
10:03 pm

21, That link BR posted about Whitlocks controversial post had some merrit. It is true that MR has some weapons but if you give an idiot a Mac 10 he would probably shoot himself. MR has the knowledge of the game far more than a lot of the QB’s who are working behind a solid OL. He is not blessed with the OL that other QB’s have. If you look at the QBs that are supposedly rated ahead of him, let them play behind our OL.
MT didn’t get MVP for the first quarter of the year for nothing. We are always on the same page.

JB Falcon

November 7th, 2012
10:12 pm

MR

falcon21

November 7th, 2012
10:12 pm

Totally agree JB.

BIG DOG

November 7th, 2012
10:18 pm

Somebody said the Falcons should lose a game to better prepare for playoffs, JUST DAM

What and idiot statement, that has the one of dumbest statement ever, if you can win ever dam ball game during regular season then do so.

16 AND 0 BABBY

BIG DOG IN THE HOUSE

BIG DOG

November 7th, 2012
10:20 pm

Falcons must blitz Drew on every down, specially up the middle in his face beacuse of his size.

BIG DOG IN THE HOUSE

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
10:40 pm

F21 and JB ,

Agreed. And it’s not that Ryan doesn’t have things to work on. He does. But look back on the games. You can tell when he had protection, and when he didn’t. It was obvious. And it’s not like he doesn’t outperform the duress.

Some folks forget…we duped one Manning into 3 INTs in a single quarter and the other Manning has had years where he threw more INTs than some folks have TDs in a season. There it is – the best guys in the game make mistakes and have work to do…even after they win SuperBowls.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
10:50 pm

BR exactly, our O line ain’t great, but everyone seems to have protection issues. I saw Aaron Rogers get sacked about 20 times against Seattle.

What makes MR2 so good is he has not reached his potential, but only because he will get better and better as he works every year to improve. I did have arm strength questions in the past, but he has addressed them, he will never be Matt Stafford, but Payton Manning has taught me something this year about arm strength.

The fact is, he is 8 weeks into this offense, JJ is in his 20th game, and we are working on our O line. My point, MR2 is the BEST qb in his era, we are not the 07 (?) patriots YET…It is not really fair to compare him to Brees, they guy has been in the league 11 years.

Matty Bicep

November 7th, 2012
10:54 pm

I love how Ryan worked on fitness…In the past he looked rather pathetic when he took off running, but he is not a legit threat to take off and pick up some crucial yards, or at least enough to he needs to be accounted for on 3rd and 8. I hope he continues to work on foot speed and leg strength this off season.

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
11:19 pm

Some stuff from Pat Yasinkas:

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/41481/nfc-south-players-lead-in-dropped-passes

If you thought execution wasn’t a part of the problem, read the above link and realize that you are simply wrong. IT IS.

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/41487/nfc-south-midseason-bestsworsts

Note the comment on Mario Williams…he of the 23 tackles and 4.5 sacks…$100 million…

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/41475/doug-martin-is-player-of-the-week

This guy is why Tampa is going to be a tough matchup. Not Vincent Jackson….THIS guy.

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
11:30 pm

Matty Bicep ,

Agreed on all accounts.

I think one of the important things is that “arm strength” is overrated when compared to “body strength”. A lot more goes into a throw than simply the muscles in the arm. Won’t get into all of that, but some guys have natural throwing strength that is superior to that of others. Others can strengthen all those “hidden” muscles like the obliques, trapezis, latissimus dorsi, etc…the ones folks don’t generally associate with the strength necessary to do certain things, such as throw the ball down the field. It really makes a difference, especially when you don’t do everything with just your arm the way some guys do.

It was something Matt had to do…he figured it out and did it. Now there are NO comments as to whether or not he can throw the deep ball (which he always could, but not with as much ease as he is now)…clearly he can. More importantly, he can do so with touch and accuracy. Oddly enough, that takes strength as well, but not brute strength.

Big Ray

November 7th, 2012
11:35 pm

Jason Whitlock talks about Ryan only getting 7.9 yards per pass attempt. He failed to mention that this is good enough for 4th in the League. He also fails to mention that Cam Newton, who is 2nd in the League in that category, has less than half the number of TD passes that Ryan has (the stat which really counts) and 2 more INTs….

Wabe

November 8th, 2012
12:08 am

Big Ray,

You’re right about execution definitely needing to be cleaned up. But, those ‘dropped passes’ numbers are somewhat unreliable. The Falcons have evolved into a pass first offense, and they’re throwing that ball almost 40+ times a game on a weekly basis. The coaching staff has put it on Matt Ryan to carry the team, and so with more passing attempts, naturally, you’re gonna have more dropped passes. I know it’s stuff that could and needs to be cleaned up, but, I definitely think that the numbers aren’t telling the whole story. Naturally, a team that throws the ball more is gonna drop more passes than one that relies heavily on the run and doesn’t throw as often, because they don’t have as many ‘opportunities to drop a pass’ as a pass heavy offense.

Eric C.

November 8th, 2012
12:25 am

It sounds like Samuel is a little iffy for the game now…not good against the Saints.

Wings

November 8th, 2012
8:08 am

Big Ray – “…they must have all been the runt fo the litter or something…”

Funny! I assume you were not runt of the litter with your name.

Paddy O

November 8th, 2012
10:11 am

I rewatched the game too – whoever blamed Polite on the Ware sack was wrong. But, he did miss that 2nd sack, and got chewed for it by HCMS – apparently MS did not like Polites response. Roddy saved a MR2 interception. I don’t want to jinx Roddy, but considering his stay healthy ways and obvious stratospheric football IQ, he may be our MVP.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
10:18 am

Yea, the arm strength issue is not moot. There are genetic freaks like Stafford, but guys like Ice, and Manning can be just as effective. I like how Ice built up his base, back and legs, before he looked like Brady running, but now, he is a viable threat to take off and run and pick up 8-10 yards if you ignore him….I also think Manning’s 3 picks were the result if his lost arm strength where he could not drive it down the field, but he has made adjustments, and leads the league in passing.

My point, Ice is a work in process, he is just going to get better and better, and barring injury, we are going to be competing at a high level for a long time to come. I saw some stat where he completes 78% of his passes for over 350 yards, 3 TDs and no picks in the last 2 minute of each half. So, in 8 games, that is 24 minutes of total football. That less than half a game, keep in mind, he does not necessarily have the football in the final 2 minutes of ever half either.

We are just scratching the surface.

Paddy O

November 8th, 2012
10:19 am

While watching the Dallas game, I felt like I was watching the NFL game slow down for JJ – he played exceptionally well, is beginning to look smooth in his routes and cuts and obviously scares the opposition – the running play against Ware was a thing of beauty – he jumps back and causes Ware to miss him, then uses Tony G as a nice post. I think we have not really scratched the surface on ability from JJ. The Falcons are now using JJ as a deception, which is prompting 3 guys to trend toward his location – thus freeing up our other play makers. If JJ, despite all the attention, can still pile up some 100 yard games – I think that gigantic trade is looking better and better. TD is really proving himself as deserving those 2 GM of the year titles.

Paddy O

November 8th, 2012
10:22 am

It is good to be a Falcon fan. Very, very good. GO FALCONS!

Terrell

November 8th, 2012
10:43 am

Chop Buster

I hear what you’re saying about being conservative on offense, but I have a question, how do you slow down a great pass rusher like a Ware? You run the ball first. This makes him play the run first so you can do play action. Also we talk about the team not being predictable. Last year we complained about running the ball too much when teams knew we were running. Now this year teams know we pass a lot so why not switch it up?

Also, we have a coach that’s playing a chess game while we are all trying to get him to pay checkers. Would it be great to score all the time? Of course, but I would rather score 19 points and win than 50 points and lose.

Chop Buster

November 8th, 2012
11:59 am

Terrell, I understand your point…when the running game can get more than one to two yards per rush. Screens. reverse to opposite side anything that will make a team’s best pass rusher have to chase another direction. Passing will slow down the rush as well–quick slants would work but we rarely use and could be most explosive. We have fast receivers that we need to get the ball in their hands more on the run. All I was saying is when the run is not working, please don’t be stubborn and keep running when it’s going no where. It seems like a waste of possession.

Ken Strickland

November 8th, 2012
12:12 pm

I remember reading a ton of complaints on these blogs about MRyan not being able to effectively throw the deep ball because he kept overthrowing his WRs. How in the devil does that translate into a weak arm? Accuracy and mental grasp of the gm are far more important attributes than arm strength, and MRyan has those 2 attributes in abundance.

I think the key to defeating the AINTS/TAINTS on the road will be determined by how well our DEF plays. If we can pressure and contain DBrees, as well as contain their rushing OFF, we will walk away with a win. I don’t know if their rushing and pass DEF can contain us for 4 qtrs, unless we allow it to happen.

Ken Strickland

November 8th, 2012
12:19 pm

The AINTS/TAINTS don’t have the secondary talent to contain RWhite, JJones, TGonzalez, DDavis, JRogers and JSnelling. Therefore they’ll have to protect that secondary by getting to MRyan any way they can. They will likely do what they did so successfully against MVick, and that’s use a lot of heavy blitz packages. If our pass protection holds up,and our OL does a good job of run blocking, they will be toast.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
12:37 pm

Not to disagree ken, but I think Payton Manning has put to rest any argument that elite arm strengh is needed to be an elite QB. But a minimum level of arm strength is needed to be and NFL QB, obviously.

But arm strength relates to accuracy on a deep ball especially. If you can throw a ball 70 yards in the air, you are just going to be more accurate on a 45 yard throw than a guy who maxes out at 50 yards. For a guy who can throw it 70 know he really only has to put 65% into it, and can keep his mechanics and timing, where a guy who maxes out at 50 yards sees his range being stretched and heaves it up maybe a little earlier, or just gives it every ounce of strength he has, and might even overthrow the guy. So over throwing the deep ball can be a result a weaker (but still NFL quality) arm.

But I have one final point…..Jamarcus Russell, Jeff George, and Ryan Leaf. So I am not advocating arm stregnth is anywhere near the most important attribute a QB must have, in fact, it is way down the list. However, any QB who recogonizes opportunity for improvement and works to those areas is going to be a winner.

Chop Buster

November 8th, 2012
12:41 pm

Ken, we just need to put Hawley back in as a TE and run off the RT/RG with Turner and Quizz. People are worried about our run, they better not forget about ours as well. Just when they stack the line, then Ryan will smoke them over the top to Julio or Roddy. This won’t be the same Falcons team they’re using to playing.

Chop Buster

November 8th, 2012
12:43 pm

Sorry…”People are worried about THEIR run, …”

Paddy O

November 8th, 2012
1:29 pm

terrell- if we ever score 50 and lose, Ill give you a $100. However, the last 2 games, our offense has gone back to the mentality we had in the 1st 3 games.

Paddy O

November 8th, 2012
1:31 pm

matty – actually, your premise is pretty non-logical as Mike Vick has that 70 yard arm, and is horribly inaccurate at any mid-range pass – at least consistency wise.

Paddy O

November 8th, 2012
1:34 pm

focus on pass blocking and don’t run up the middle too often; plus use screens liberally. JJ, RW84 and Tony G will get open. a recipe for scoring 40 points a game. except for that last quarter Smitty Ball sit on it mentality. What have we got now? 44 and 0 with that Smitty Ball mentality? Hard to argue with results.

Zoomie

November 8th, 2012
1:43 pm

Yep. The Falcons these Aints are used to playing pounded them with Turner, presented them with a bland menu of possession routes, sat in zones while occasionally sending someone scurrying after Drew the Dwarf, and still managed to be competitive.

This will be the first time the Aints see an Atlanta offense withh a seemingly endless stream of offensive impact players and seemingly endles ways to get them the ball. I don’t expect this Nawlins team to duplicate the defensive success they had against the Iggles.

In addition, Drew hasn’t led his minions against a Nolan-coached Atlanta defense who is, in fact, pretty offensive themselves.

I predict the worm has turned in this division rivalry . . .

D3

November 8th, 2012
3:20 pm

Take a look at this article. I might be being a little sensitive here, but I can’t help but get the feeling that this article is written from one team’s point of view. And also check out which team are the @ssholes in this one and which team knows how to act……….

http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/66391/saints-falcons-still-a-heated-rivarly

With the Saints off to a bad start, this game probably has no playoff implications for them, and the Falcons could pretty much put an end to New Orleans’ playoff hopes with a victory. But the Saints would love nothing better than to knock the Falcons from the ranks of the unbeaten.

Heck, if the Saints could win and send the Falcons into a tailspin, it might make their crazy season worthwhile.

……….AND………..

Photo Flap — A group of New Orleans defensive players went to the locker room and then came back out onto the field to have their pictures taken on the Falcons’ logo. The Falcons, a team that tries very hard to keep a low profile and stay out of public controversies, were privately offended and irate.

…………

Pouring it on? Then, almost exactly a year removed from the logo fiasco, there was the night in New Orleans when a lot of people (including some in the Falcons’ organization) thought coach Sean Payton was running up the score as he let Drew Brees continue throwing as he set an NFL record for passing yards in a season and the Saints defeated the Falcons, 45-16. In the Atlanta locker room that night, there were more than a few players that felt disrespected, although they could have prevented it by slowing Brees

I can’t really blame them too much on this one to be honest. Our defense was pathetic and this was one of the only other times I thought our team gave up in the Smitty Era (Philly in 2009 being the other).

………

Statue war: Respect -– or a lack of it -– can flow both ways. That became obvious this summer when the Saints unveiled a statue of one of the most popular players in franchise history (Steve Gleason) making perhaps the biggest play in franchise history.

The statue replicates Gleason’s punt block in the first game back in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. But the other figure in the moment, former Atlanta punter Michael Koenen, has no Falcons’ logos and his name doesn’t appear on the back of his figure.

The Falcons said they realize the significance of Gleason’s play in the history of the Saints and the city of New Orleans, but said they were advised by the NFL not to allow their trademark to be used in connection with things out of their market. The Falcons could have made an exception to the NFL’s guidelines, but elected not to.

That angered a lot of New Orleans fans. Anger is a big part of any rivalry and doesn’t have to be limited just to fans.

……………….You’re kidding, right? So it’s safe to assume that in some of sport’s biggest and most hated rivalries, that opposing teams would let their rival put up an embarrassing, in-your-face memorial right in front of the stadium. I’m sure Red Sox-Yankees, Giants-Cowboys, Bears-Packers would allow their enemy to do that. Just shows how ignorant and stupid sAINTS fans are.

Burn Bridges (ie…Bitter, Sour Grapes) — Lofton really drew the line in the sand when he said one of the reasons he signed with the Saints was because he wanted to be with a team that had a chance to go to the Super Bowl. That one didn’t go unnoticed in the Falcons’ offices or locker room in Flowery Branch, Ga. But, long before that, lots of lines were crossed both ways in this rivalry

I commented on this a ton in the off-season. I lost most all respect the way Lofton handled his business. I understand he was hurt by not getting a good offer by the Falcons, but the NFL is not personal, and Mike Nolan simply didn’t need to pay that much money for a MLB in his defense. I’m sure they would have re-signed him if he would have dropped his price. Turns out, were spot on since no other team took the bait either. Philly, Tampa Bay, and maybe others took a pass. sAINTS only got him b/c of that miscreant Vilma was suspended. TD drafted his replacement / insurance in Dent knowing that Lofton would be asking for the moon in terms of a contract. Fact is, we all waited 3-4 years for Lofton to be “the guy” on defense and, outside of being a great tackler, he simply never did that. How was Spoon able to become that guy in his 2nd year and Lofton couldn’t in year 4? I always knew there was a reason I couldn’t commit to an NFL custom t-shirt with Lofton on the back. I went with Willy Mo instead. Good choice I think.

LRD

November 8th, 2012
3:22 pm

Payback time for the ” P issue” on our home field. Payback for the going for the 4-1 and not getting it last year. Payback for running up the stats for Bree’s trying to break the record last year. Payback for for our current record against them, and the ultimate payback of taking them out this weekend and therefore pretty much eliminating them from the playoffs.
Again, we need to come out like we did against Denver with the D that gave Peyton fits. And then our O needs to come out like we did against the Eagles and just punch them in the mouth.. and then punch em down again, then a nice swift kick while they are on the carpet.
Fire up… oh yeah!!! Really wish this first game against them was at home.. just to hear the dome roar!

Chop Buster

November 8th, 2012
3:41 pm

D3 I read that garbage. Pat Y’s love fest with the Aints. I hope we just go in there and completely demolish them.

Chop Buster

November 8th, 2012
3:42 pm

LRD, we need to come out twice as aggressive than we did against Denver. We weren’t going after Peyton, but I sure hope they go after Brees and keep him on the ground all day long.

Big Lou

November 8th, 2012
4:14 pm

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-player-interviews/0ap2000000091760/DeCoud-helping-Falcons-defense-rise-up

LMAO

Decoud is hilarious.

Wings

November 8th, 2012
4:50 pm

I was watching a story about Jimmy Johnson on the NFL Network this afternoon. One of the things that Johnson believed was to never let up. Clips of him talking to his 80’s National Championship University of Miami team that beat Oklahoma captured these words:

“Don’t stop playing, pour it on and don’t stop until the game is over”.

He was often accused of running up the score but he knew how to win as he carried the same philosophy into the NFL.

Coach Smith needs to instill more of this philosophy especially during the second half of games.

Birdman

November 8th, 2012
6:24 pm

http://bloggingdirty.com/2012/11/08/atlanta-falcons-injury-report-weatherspoon-out-vs-saints/

Unca' Bob

November 8th, 2012
6:26 pm

I want this game more than any other game I can recall. Yes, it goes beyond our playoff games. IMHumbleOOnly, it is a must win. I cannot even stand the thought of not winning. The thing that strikes me most about last year is they had another game left. I want my pound of flesh and I hope it is wearing an aints logo.

JJ

November 8th, 2012
6:49 pm

Unca’Bob, Amen as “The Rev” birdman might say. Really,really, really want this one and hope its a beatdown on breejesus and big blowout! Its finally payback time!!!!!

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
6:56 pm

One of the things that Johnson believed was to never let up.

Jimmy Johnson coached in another era, a pre-salary cap era. When he coached under the salary cap, he was barely a .500 coach.

Does Smitty’s conservatism in snuffing out games lead to our lack of killer instinct? I think we might find out this year. I know one thing, if he ever blows a lead by going conservative, I might get voted off the island.

JB Falcon

November 8th, 2012
6:57 pm

At the risk of blaming the blog monster, I might have hit refresh instead of Submit. Anyway.

BM, The news about Spoon isn’t good considering who we are playing and how much we want to kick the snot out of the Caints but, I would rather have him miss this game and have him perfectly well when we will need him more. Besides, we beat the Boys without him and we can beat the swamp people without him.

JJ

November 8th, 2012
7:01 pm

MM on national stage…love it, enjoy MB and BL!!!!!!

JJ

November 8th, 2012
7:02 pm

Just havin a laugh, dont get panties in a wad plz!

Arno

November 8th, 2012
7:09 pm

Yasinskas tried to list ways each team has disrespected the other. The only example he cited against the Falcons was the team not letting NO use Falcons’ ID on their statue. Could Yasinskas not see that NO building that statue was at the Falcons’ expense? No Pat– the disrespect is all NOs.

Eagles, Cowboys, and now the Saints. Three teams in a row trying to dig out of their failed seasons by getting a W over our Falcons.

Unca' Bob

November 8th, 2012
7:18 pm

JJ,

Words cannot express my desire to win this game. It goes to the very fiber of my core.

Birdman

November 8th, 2012
7:37 pm

Unca’Bob

If there were 2 games I would like to see them win out of all games during the regular season. It would be the 2 with the Saints.
But our Birds have won 8 in a row and it sure is not going to be a cake walk to make it 9 because of who and where there going . A loud place with a team that really needs a win to save there season.And have a offence to do it .

GO FALCONS !!!!

JJ

November 8th, 2012
7:39 pm

Down to the RC and moonpie? Me too!!! If you can text our buddy SW, he has less than an hr to change his lineup tonight…dont want to get beat with bye players like coop last week…j/k coop.

Big Lou

November 8th, 2012
8:24 pm

JJ

I do not understand why I am on your list… I hate MM with a passion and never defended him. lol

Big Lou

November 8th, 2012
8:25 pm

I think you just like getting me involved…

Slant Pattern

November 8th, 2012
8:37 pm

Jax 3 and out first possession. Not sure which is more painful, sticking my head in a blender or watching a MM offense.

Slant Pattern

November 8th, 2012
8:44 pm

Second possession…who would have guessed 3 and out. Watching B. Gabbert try to run that offense makes me appreciate M. Ryan even more.

Slant Pattern

November 8th, 2012
8:50 pm

“terrell- if we ever score 50 and lose, Ill give you a $100.” – Paddy O

You are always so generous and welcoming to the new people . I would have offered him $5 for every Turner run over 10 yards as long as he paid me a dollar for every one under. We would have had drinking money and he might learn a lesson in why failing to establish the run actually allows those “feared” DE’s to come full force on the obvious 3rd and long passing situations created.

JB Falcon

November 8th, 2012
9:42 pm

What channel is the game on????????????

falcon21

November 8th, 2012
9:44 pm

NFL Network.

JB Falcon

November 8th, 2012
9:47 pm

Nevermind, found it. 17-0. Poor ole MM.

JB Falcon

November 8th, 2012
9:48 pm

21, Thanks!

Big Ray

November 8th, 2012
10:31 pm

Wabe ,

I’ll concede that point to you. The numbers definitely don’t tell the whole story. But when you see a guy drop a pass for a key first down, and there was no defensive interference that contributed to it, “well, we are throwing the ball more these days” is not going to be a good enough alibi.

I mean, there are times where Julio missed and I would get pissed with him. But then I’d go back and look, and it wasn’t like he was getting hit on the numbers. Dude would miss on deep passes where he was running full out most of the time. Still can’t be used as an excuse, but there it is…situational circumstances.

Sometimes the drops really hurt. Sometimes they are just part of throwing the ball more.

You make a very good point. One thing I’m very happy to see – Roddy White not having this issue, like he was last season.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
10:50 pm

I think MM is gonna try to kill the clock.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
10:53 pm

Man, what a love fest with Luck.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
10:54 pm

Actually, with Gabbert, killing the clock is the best you can hope for.

Slant Pattern

November 8th, 2012
10:58 pm

Lol, Gabbert is like get me out of this nightmare. I don’t think I’ve seen Henne in action yet this year. This game makes me very thankful about certain things.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
11:05 pm

Not sure if Gabbart will ever see another NFL snap again.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
11:08 pm

14 play drive, classic MM.

Slant Pattern

November 8th, 2012
11:08 pm

Jags storming back. Henne looking good…well not stick your head in a blender and hit frappe bad anyways.

Matty Bicep

November 8th, 2012
11:28 pm

Seriously, that is an illegal block?

Big Ray

November 8th, 2012
11:39 pm

Does anybody really give a damn what John Madden thinks anymore?

Big Ray

November 8th, 2012
11:40 pm

Ooops, wrong blog.

Wabe

November 8th, 2012
11:48 pm

So Spoon’s out this game. Yet another test for this defense. I’m wondering though, a lot of folks wanted to talk about how good that Dallas offense looked when Romo went into the no huddle. No doubt, they moved the ball effectively, but, I personally think a lot of their success also had to do with us pulling back a bit.

I’m wondering, after watching that one successful drive the Cowboys mounted against us last week, do the Saints come out thinking they’ve found somewhat of flaw? Do they do get into no huddle early and often this Sunday?

Really anxious to see what type of defense Nolan has us in this Sunday. I’m expecting some of those amoeba looks to pop back up this weekend.

Big Lou

November 9th, 2012
1:13 am

“I’m wondering, after watching that one successful drive the Cowboys mounted against us last week, do the Saints come out thinking they’ve found somewhat of flaw? Do they do get into no huddle early and often this Sunday?”

It was the fourth quarter and the defense was gassed from defending our lack of offense all game, imo. Also, as you said, the zone looked extremely soft. I don’t think our offense will have the same issue with a crappy Saints D who cannot block a slow/fat kid from the buffet line. So, in turn, I expect zone blitzes and better coverage packages from Mike Nolan, since our defense will be more fresh.

As for the amoeba looks, it wouldn’t be until third-second-and-longs, since the Saints have a pretty darn good running game–way better than the Cowboys.

Wings

November 9th, 2012
7:48 am

Big Lou – “I don’t think our offense will have the same issue with a crappy Saints D who cannot block a slow/fat kid from the buffet line.”

You are correct about the offense if we look at the potential of the offense. It is too bad the coaching staff runs the offense with a governor in place.

Zoomie

November 9th, 2012
8:02 am

“I’m wondering, after watching that one successful drive the Cowboys mounted against us last week, do the Saints come out thinking they’ve found somewhat of flaw? Do they do get into no huddle early and often this Sunday?”

I predict that Nawlins goes up-tempo/no-huddle from the start on Sunday and makes it a key part of their game-plan. It’s really their best shot against what they’ll expect to be an attacking defense. They’ll hit it hard and fast, using quick-strike passes, screens, draws, and etcetera, doing what they can to get their play-makers in space, like they did against Philly.

I have no idea what game-plan they’ll bring on defense. I think they know MR2 will chew them up if they try to bring the house the way they did against the Iggles. I believe their best bet is to implement their own version of an “amoeba” defense to trip up Matt Ryan’s reads.

In any event, Nawlins has owned Atlanta for the last 5 years. I believe this is the group that can break that trend. Here’s hoping for two wins over the Aints and two wins in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in 2012.

Maybe we can get our own statue placed there . . .

henry tn

November 9th, 2012
11:33 am

I agree with john madden I am not to impressed with the falcons they have just a average offensive line they don’t protect the quarterback very good, and their defensive line don’t put much pressure on the quarterback i don’t think they will go very far in the playoffs again—Brees will pick them apart.

Chop Buster

November 9th, 2012
12:03 pm

henry tn, any real fan already knows this team has areas of improvement. We sure don’t need John Madden to tell us that. This won’t be the same cake walk for Brees as in the past. Even with the players we do have, we are a better team than the Aints on both sides of the ball.

Big Lou

November 9th, 2012
12:03 pm

“You are correct about the offense if we look at the potential of the offense. It is too bad the coaching staff runs the offense with a governor in place.”

Meh, They have scored 25+ a good amount of times this year, and I predict them to throw at least 30+ this game. Mike Smith only plays conservative when they are up by a couple touchdowns in the second half(usually 4th quarter). The first half will be at least three touchdowns.

Chop Buster

November 9th, 2012
12:04 pm

henry tn, even with the previous coordinators the Aints still only won the majority of games by a field goal or two…except the last game we played.

Big Lou

November 9th, 2012
12:06 pm

henry tn

I agree the offensive line looks a bit suspect, but the addition of Konz should help tremendously by the end of the regular season. As far as the defensive line goes, the Saints were in the same boat the year they won the Superbowl. They relied heavily on zone blitzing, takeaways, and hidden schemes to put pressure on the QB. I think Brees will get a good dose of that Sunday.

JB Falcon

November 9th, 2012
12:13 pm

Hmmmm. According to ESPN, when the Falcons go into the 4th quarter with a 6 point lead, their record is 43 – 0. That doesn’t sound like letting off the gas to me.

Paddy O

November 9th, 2012
12:33 pm

well, Roddy is going to be on NFL network as “face of the franchise” – wonder what quotable statements he’ll make?

Chop Buster

November 9th, 2012
12:48 pm

Paddy, Roddy will send an advance message to the Aints to stop holding and hanging all over them going down the field–because it won’t stop him, Julio and Tony from scoring. LOL

Big Ray

November 9th, 2012
1:33 pm

So McClure is being hyped for the Pro Bowl by his good buddy Clabo.

First, I think that McClure has been solid, but not Pro Bowl worthy.

Second, I think Clabo should not be allowed to utter the words “Pro Bowl”…

Big Lou

November 9th, 2012
1:56 pm

Big Ray

Lol

For sure. They need to focus on actually getting push on the $&@%ing run plays and shut the $&@! Up. That’s just me.

JB Falcon

November 9th, 2012
3:00 pm

Well, well, well, according to DOL/Sporting News MR has been voted as Midseason MVP and also according to Ashley Fox/ESPN as well. Peyton was 2nd.

Birdman

November 9th, 2012
3:23 pm

http://bleacherreport.com/tb/d8V16?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=nfl

Birdman

November 9th, 2012
3:35 pm

I don’t care what him are anyone else believes. The Falcons are still 8 & 0 and have help mess up some other teams plans for the playoffs. The 8 & 0 may not matter to them but to those teams that sufferd one more loss to our Birds .IT MATTERS. !!

I hope all are well and have had a Blessed week.
GO FALCONS !!!!!.

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
6:05 pm

While the Aint’s always play us tough and will be up to play the spoiler role to the Falcons undefeated season I believe the team will be focused on the task at hand and make road kill out of the dem dere Taint’s!

Falcons 28-24

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
6:09 pm

I Ain’t saying I Cain’t see us putting up 30+ on them if all goes according to what I speculate to be the plan against dem dere Taint’s. But I’ll be happy with any kind of dubya.

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
6:19 pm

Big Ray,

I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on Konz starting and if you’re happy he’s in there despite the unfortunate circumstances for Reynolds. It’s next man up…but do you think it would have happened anyway? It will be interesting to see how he performs with a full start under his belt, albeit in a pressure packed situation in the Sewper Dome. Also, Baker has drawn some recent praise…do you see Lamar getting any time on the field?

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
6:24 pm

JB Falcon

November 9th, 2012
12:13 pm
Hmmmm. According to ESPN, when the Falcons go into the 4th quarter with a 6 point lead, their record is 43 – 0. That doesn’t sound like letting off the gas to me.

————————————————

That’s a telling stat JB. Sounds like they’ve closed the door on a lot of folks to win games when they had to. Lol!…I guess they must just be lucky!

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
6:29 pm

Since everyone must be off having dinner I guess I’ll go do the same….8-0. I’m gonna enjoy this game Sunday…my cousin lives in NOLA, he’s from Chicago. So he is riding me about the Bears and taunting me about this game against the Caint’s. He’s got me all fired up. Hope Texan takes out the Bears and we handle our business and go 5-0 on the road so I can shut his azz up!

Greg Mendel

November 9th, 2012
7:22 pm

I’m with Unca’ Bob on the emotional importance of this game. I don’t dismiss Brees” skills one bit. And with no Spoon, it promises to be a tough game. Falcons defense has got to be relentless, and our O-line simply HAS to protect Ryan and give him time.

I’m a homer, so I want this game more than any. In fact, I’m such a homer, I want an undefeated regular season. Yeah, I know all the arguments, but wouldn’t it be fun!

JB Falcon

November 9th, 2012
7:50 pm

BM, DP,GM, we all share the same tension and hopes. There was a stretch in our past games with NO that the score was 20 -17 three years in a row. I have heard the prediction of 27-24 several times this week from various sources. Probably due to the pass happy trend in the league. I know the recent record shows an advantage to NO but the overall record shows the Falcons to be ahead. Both teams came into the NFL about the same time.
Now, the Caints are on a down year and are desperate. We are showing a team that has never been seen before. Where am I going with this? Our history, overall, and I’ve seen almost every game between these two teams, is that the last team to get the ball will win the game by 3 points.

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
8:26 pm

JB, I’ve seen almost every game betweem em’ as well. I remember all too well the bitter closeness of this rivalry over the years. Its our time now and I hope we buck the trend and lay a whoopin’ on those no good Taint’s!

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
8:29 pm

Low down, good for nuthin’ no good Taint’s!! Almost makes me wanna go find a troll to antagonize, lol!

Sportaree

November 9th, 2012
8:36 pm

Deplane, It’s good to see you in a fine mood this evening!

falcon21

November 9th, 2012
8:55 pm

I was thinking the old score 20-17 that JB talked about but if Nolan has a plan that will confuse Brees as he did Manning, I think we can win this game by 10+. Score early and often against their weak D and shut the fans up early. I will go with 31-20.

JB Falcon

November 9th, 2012
9:06 pm

21, I too would like to break that mold. Reversing the score on that game when Brees was trying to set a record! Karma at it’s greatest moment.

falcon21

November 9th, 2012
9:18 pm

JB, I’m just glad it is not a Sunday night game.

DePlane

November 9th, 2012
9:47 pm

Why thank you Sportaree! Good Evening to you!

F21 me too. I need my sleep before Monday morning shift at the salt mine!

Sportaree

November 9th, 2012
9:48 pm

falcon 21,
I’m glad it’s not a Sunday night for your sake. Now I ain’t saying our birds will lose but after we lost to the Giants back in 2009 I recall you saying that you went for a ride on your fourwheeler an it’s just not safe riding those things after dark.

JB Falcon

November 9th, 2012
9:48 pm

21, A f’n Men on the Sunday night. I was late to work the next day. BUT, it was worth it.

Sportaree

November 9th, 2012
10:23 pm

I would like to see more of that Big 3 def. Sunday with three d-linemen and a def. end.

Big Lou

November 9th, 2012
10:32 pm

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-playbook/0ap2000000092410/Playbook-Falcons-vs-Saints

I just don’t think people understand how bad the Saint’s defense really is…

Greg Mendel

November 9th, 2012
10:37 pm

Let me add to my last post that I have no doubt the Falcons can win, and should win. My worry is — and can’t explain it — is that, lately, the Saints just beat us, no matter. And even if we win the Super Bowl and they finish in the basement, the season will be “Tainted.”

I respect Drew Brees and the Saints, but I detest them.

falcon21

November 9th, 2012
10:47 pm

Darn Sportaree, you don’t forget anything, LOL.

falcon21

November 9th, 2012
10:49 pm

I’m thinking about trading it for a golf cart, it is safer!

Matty Bicep

November 9th, 2012
11:42 pm

Just watched a piece on the NFL channel regarding the falcons. When asked what our weakness is, the guy said our struggles running the ball, and we need to get the ball the Turner more because his carries are down..,..So D3, I suggest you don’t watch the NFL channel, I don’t want you tossing your shoe through the TV set.

Paddy O

November 9th, 2012
11:45 pm

interesting – HC MS says we are going to reduce Turners workload – he does just that – and the talking heats gripe. can’t win for losing. it would be nice to hang 50 points on the Saints.

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
9:49 am

This game is a chance for Akeem Dent to show why they had no problem letting Lofton go. Also, an opportunity to take advantage of Lofton on any coverage mis-matches that present themselves.

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
9:50 am

It doesn’t matter who the Aint’s put in at running back. Just play the play and make the stop. Sportaree, I wanna see some Big 3 Tackle too!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
10:14 am

It doesn’t matter what happened in the past. That was then and this is now!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
10:14 am

It doesn’t matter what the pundits say. Talk is cheap. The NFL is all about dubya’s!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
10:19 am

It doesn’t matter what AccuScore predicts. The game is played on the field!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
10:20 am

Oh well…time to go wash the car and get some spirits for the game! Peace Cage!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
10:21 am

9-0. Believe it.

D3

November 10th, 2012
11:55 am

Great Saturday Morn’ Cage! — A good slew of games on today. UGA-Auburn, Ala-A&M, Tenn-Mizzou, Ark-SC. But really, we’re all focusing on the “Game of Hate” known as the Falcons-sAINTS game. I think this should be up there with some of the most hated rivalries in sports. There’s really no mutual respect at all, we just hate each other. Mainly, because they are such ignorant, slime-trash. Sorry, no other fanbase holds a flame to them. Just wretched and putrid.

I know I sound like a chicken little right now, but I’m worried about Sunday. It’s not anything in particular, but rather just having to think about them making their season by beating us. I’m really hoping that we go in there and really whip their @ss. I don’t want to hear anything about their record being 10 out of 12 or whatever. Mike Smith is 2-6 and not great, but it could have easily been 0-8 with the two coordinators we’ve had the last 4 years.

Hopefully, we’ll play like we did in Philly. Little worried about Spoon being out, but Nolan will do light years better than d@mn BVG for chrissake. I mean, Drew Brees, just had to love playing us because he could literally just sit back there and cut us to shreds and pad the hell out of his stats. Huge game.

Greg — You respect Drew Brees? I used to, but the way he’s acted with this whole bounty-gate garbage, he’s shown himself to be the true fraud he is.

Wings

November 10th, 2012
12:33 pm

DePane those were good posts – reminded me of the Burma Shave signs.

Chop Buster

November 10th, 2012
1:47 pm

D3, no love for the Aints and I hope we just embarrass them tomorrow. The smugness of Brees and the dirty things this team has gotten away with makes me want to see them destroyed. This team needs to put a hurting on Brees they way they’ve tried to come after Ryan. They may have had Smitty’s number because of the basically the same game plan his coordinators called when playing the Aints. I truly believe our new coordinators will change our performance and winning percentage against them.

Big Lou

November 10th, 2012
3:05 pm

D3

My ex is a saints fan, maybe that’s why she’s my ex.

LRD

November 10th, 2012
3:55 pm

31-21. Falcons…. And Lofton gets abused by Tony G for 2 count em 2 TD’s given Tony his 100th and showing why we let Curtis go.

JJ

November 10th, 2012
4:12 pm

BL, Best post of the day!

falcon21

November 10th, 2012
4:42 pm

For now Bama is being smacked around, 20-0.

Greg Mendel

November 10th, 2012
5:04 pm

D3, I respect Brees’ talent.

Of course, I respect Roddy White’s talent, too. But I wish he’d stay off Twitter.

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
6:52 pm

Wings…thanks! I love the old Burma Shave signs!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
7:08 pm

D3, I don’t think you can get any more base than that. “Wretched and putrid” and “slime-trash”! LMAO!

JB Falcon

November 10th, 2012
7:09 pm

Bama is in trouble, watch the last minute if you can.

Sportaree

November 10th, 2012
7:15 pm

JB Falcon, Can you get the Ga. Auburn game on DirectTV. Its blacked out in my area.

Unca' Bob

November 10th, 2012
7:20 pm

Bama gets an L.

Sportaree

November 10th, 2012
7:28 pm

Unca’ Bob, That will shake op the BCS standings.

JB, There must have bee a delay, the game is on now. Thanks anyway.

JB Falcon

November 10th, 2012
7:32 pm

Sportaree, click on the channel it’s supposed to be on and Direct TV will find it for you, just wait for it. I’m watching it now. The guide for the channel I’m on says channel 209.

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
8:02 pm

Bama falls. What a stunner!

JB Falcon

November 10th, 2012
8:34 pm

Had to run an errand and the GA score was 7-0. Told the wife if GA had a 14 point lead when I returned we would watch her lawn show because she is a gardener, it’s call Law and Order. Anyway just got back and it’s 28-0 so I guess we will watch how to grow grass.

Wabe

November 10th, 2012
9:24 pm

Maybe I should be worried? But, truthfully, I’m honestly not really as nervous about tomorrow’s game as I was last week this time leading up to the Dallas game. We’ll see if that changes as we draw nearer to gametime.

I think the Falcons have demonstrated this season that they’ve really grown up. The way this team has performed on the road thus far this season has been something else. With the exception of the Washington game, none of our road games have been close. We’ve performed better on the road than we have at the Dome, which really is a sign of a potentially great team.

I think the fact the Saints defense has been sooo horrible makes me a lot less nervous than maybe I should be. We should have very little trouble moving the football on this defense. But, do we score TD’s? This is a rivalry game, so technically, it should be tighter than a typical 8-0 vs. 3-5 matchup should be. But, if these guys really wanna send a message, and really wanna return the favor of all the classless bullstuff the Aints have done the past couple of seasons, they send the message and drive the dagger into the Saints season tomorrow.

I wanna see domination. I wanna see a beatdown. Drop the hammer on em’.

Paddy O

November 10th, 2012
9:27 pm

Looks like our ex coordinators are going to be getting BIG raises for being so successful. Who knows where auburn would be without BVG. And J’ville, winning cures all!

DePlane

November 10th, 2012
9:29 pm

Wabe, well said sir…especially the part about droppin’ the hammer on em’!

snacktastic

November 10th, 2012
9:30 pm

Dawgs ripping Auburn to shreds. I’m glad I don’t have to be on edge about football two days in a row. Still looking unlikely that UGA will have a shot at the title, though.

Also, how ’bout that Johnny Football?

Paddy O

November 10th, 2012
9:34 pm

Folks need to consider the long term impact of HC MS – I get the sense he is very earnest – not rah, rah – but honest and intense – does not generally tolerate BS – and creates a strong sense of stability – IE, he is a good general. He had some lousy Light Colonels who were not properly utilizing his troops – sort of like Lincoln with McClellen. So, he ditched the lousy light birds and brought in some new guys – one a grizzled CSM who knows how to motivate and strategize; the other a young SFC who’s career is projecting forward with a steep curve. Thus far, the new guys a BETTER utilizing the talents / tools/ weapons we have – such that we win when we are not at our best. A whole lot of teams fail to maintain their composure as success occurs – we have not had that happen. It is a testament to the “new” regime – TD, MS and MR2 – plus the new coordinators. HOO, AH, Lightfighter! GO FALCONS !!! Falcons 42, Saints 17.

Sportaree

November 10th, 2012
9:51 pm

Dang, I miss those Aints fans that come here barking the night before the game Wonder where they are?

Sportaree

November 10th, 2012
10:27 pm

Goodnight Cagers time to turn in. I am a 6′ 3″ 195 lb. backup, Backup adult class Sunday School teacher!

falcon21

November 10th, 2012
10:36 pm

Later Sportaree, have a goodnight big fellow.

Big Ray

November 10th, 2012
11:03 pm

Man….we gotta win this game. I’ll lose my damn mind if we don’t.

Birdman

November 10th, 2012
11:04 pm

Sad to see Alabama lose But then again there not may favorite team in the SEC.

Great job by Georgia today .Hope it rolls over to the Falcons tomorrow.

Sportaree .Backup are else. You are on the Best and only true team brother. God Bless you.

Birdman

November 10th, 2012
11:37 pm

Guy;s If our Birds Shred the Saints . Then all you will here is how bad the Saints D is and how they have blown there season . You want here much about the Birds of prey. But if The Falcon win by a touch down or 3 points . You will here more on the Falcons part of it. And if the Saints win all you will here is there praise and the I told you so from this mess of Sport people we have on TV

Falcons 36 to 21

Night Cage and God Bless

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:08 am

Pat Yasinskas: Just my personal opinion, but I think the “respect” thing is getting old. Falcons are getting lots of attention.

Idiot. He’s one of the reasons why it’s “getting old”….

How about this, Pat? Why don’t you listen to what game commentators say and what articles are saying….starting with your own…about the Falcons. Can hardly find one that doesn’t mention “playoffs” as a caveat along with the current regular season success….and there it is. The lack of respect is all about exactly that….

Wings

November 11th, 2012
7:19 am

So let’s read the confidence of Roddy:

On Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan: “He’s just been consistent throughout the whole year. Every game he’s been going out there and hitting all of the reads, giving us opportunities to make plays on the outside, and keeping the chains moving. That’s all we want to do, just keep the chains moving, keep out third down percentage up. He’s been doing a heck of a job of doing that, just getting in the red zone and scoring points. Our defense has been doing a heck of a job getting us turnovers and with short fields he’s been doing a heck of a job of getting out there and scoring touchdowns. He does a heck of a job getting us off to fast starts too. He just has to continue to be what he is, and that’s consistent, and we’ll go out there and we’ll win games.”

Unca' Bob

November 11th, 2012
7:43 am

A tip of the Falcon’s cap to all our Vets out there. Enjoy your Day, you’ve earned it.

Unca' Bob

November 11th, 2012
7:44 am

***FFL***

WR,

Good luck today. It should be a good game.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
8:34 am

Do my eyes deceive me? Is it…GAME DAY?!

BR: EXACTLY. Attention does not equal respect. There are plenty of articles about the Falcons, but at least half of them are taking jabs at their performance, or their schedule, or their playoff record.

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
8:43 am

I want to wish all my fellow Vets a Happy Veteran’s Day and say thank you for serving our country!

Go Falcons!

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
8:48 am

Yastinkas.

D3

November 11th, 2012
10:39 am

Big Ray — Love that little game he’s got going right there, huh? You’re one of the main critics and can’t say anything positive about the team without mentioning something negative, and then turn around and say the no respect thing is getting old. Whatever. Dude is right there with all the other “NFL Entertainment Tonight” crowd……………”No Drama, Not Interested” should be the NFL / MTV Sports / Media Elite’s new slogan. I really dislike everything ESPN except for their soccer coverage.

Arno

November 11th, 2012
11:35 am

ESPN doesn’t like the fact that the Falcons destroyed two perfectly good story lines– the supposed emergence of the Eagles and the Cowboys. Let’s make today the triple crown by taking down the Saints, too.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
12:03 pm

Noticed Mattews and Massaquoi active for todays game.IMO, Nolan will dial up pressure on Brees. We may get a chance to see Sidbury, Robert James and Massaquoi in action today.

af fan

November 11th, 2012
12:09 pm

Yasinskas doesn’t like the Falcons, never has. He does have a crush on the Panthers and Bucs, but that’s his problem

Today, Atlanta’s D scores 21 on NO. Final score 45 – 3. Justice served.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
12:30 pm

31-17 Falcons.

I wanna drop the 40-bomb on them. I just think Smitty will go into this game showing too much respect for Drew Brees rather than realizing the opportunity our offense has to score at will against that Saints defense. I think as a result, we come out with the ball control type mentality that takes time off that clock.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
12:36 pm

“I wanna drop the 40-bomb on them. I just think Smitty will go into this game showing too much respect for Drew Brees rather than realizing the opportunity our offense has to score at will against that Saints defense. I think as a result, we come out with the ball control type mentality that takes time off that clock.” – Wabe

Agree. I’ve heard alot of slobbering over the Dallas D from last week which looks to just be a statistical anomaly of short fields caused by turnovers. What I saw was our receivers getting great separation when Dallas played straight up. I had Philly and Dallas being two of the backfields that could give us pause and they weren’t even close to being able to handle our receivers one on one. The Taints are so bad on defense if we lose this game to conservative playcalling I will go absolutely bonkers.

D3

November 11th, 2012
12:47 pm

Wabe — Agreed. Brees is still good, but he’s fading. Good thing that Smitty is not our D coordinator. And sure as the H glad that BVG ain’t. Talk about someone whose stock has plummeted. Yikes.

Slightly nervous, but hey, we gotta do this. This is the biggest game of the year in my opinion, win today (as ugly as it may be) and we set the tone for the final 8 games stretch. It won’t be the end of the world if we lose, but it’ll be a knife in our side for sure.

As my mom said at the Falcons-Broncos game………….”RISE THE F— UP!”

Got some things to take of today so will be watching it on delay. As soon as I catch up, I’ll be back here in the Cage.

GO D@MN FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:00 pm

D3

I don’t know about Brees fading, but the rest of their team is god awful.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:03 pm

Thought this would be a good game to join the Cage for the inside play by play. No matter what happens, I just want the Falcons to come out and play like they have that laser focus and drive to be the best. LEt the chips fall where they may, and run the Saints through the chipper.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:04 pm

LOL

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:05 pm

Seems like the Saints knew the first play would be straight up the middle. Hope we can confuse them for the rest of the day.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:05 pm

See, the -3 yarder to MT was all part of the plan.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:05 pm

Saints defense is hyped…but Falcons offense will settle in quickly, I think.

Take the Saints defense out of the game quick.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:05 pm

Saints defense is god awful.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:06 pm

Matty Ice is a BOSS.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:06 pm

Matty Ice with a BEAUTIFUL deep ball!!!!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:06 pm

Awesome pass play. Quick strike deep.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:07 pm

TD! SUCK IT AINTS!

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:07 pm

I did put a nice touch on that pass….7

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
1:08 pm

boooooooooooooyahhhh

quick strike baby. do it over and over and over.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:08 pm

Lol

Announcers are biased.

Wow… pass to olineman. DK is a genius.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:08 pm

Tackle Eligible…not so bad now, huh?

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:08 pm

Well I guess we can all apologize profusely for complaining about throwing the ball to offensive linemen. And the Superdome goes silent!!!

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
1:08 pm

Wait a minute. Matt Ryan can’t throw the ball that far accurately.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:09 pm

BL….LOL.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:09 pm

Woot! Other than the complete wasted plays to Turner, very nice. I was cringing after the first play fail but the Johnson call was nice.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:09 pm

Awesome….that was some sneaky shiz….and I have to give Koetter credit…they never saw it coming. They sniffed “Smittyball” all the way…and sniffed wrong.

Hey….Koetter learned his lesson…no more throwing to Hawley…LOL.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:10 pm

Looks like my predictions are legit. Horrid defense.

Let’s see how our defense responds.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:10 pm

Tackle Eligible…not so bad now, huh?

Well it seems tackles catch better than Guards/Centers….

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:11 pm

Almost 4 minute drive. Perfect on the pass. They may stop MT33 for a while but they are going to have to pay attention to him every time he’s in the backfield.

Defensive three and out might put the nail in the coffin early.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:11 pm

ASANTE! BOO-YAH!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:11 pm

I think the gameplan with running Turner early is/was obvious…although the “I told you so” comments never come until AFTER it succeeds….LOL

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:11 pm

Samuel jumping a route….noooo

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
1:11 pm

yesssssssssssssssssssssirrrrrrrrrrrrr

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:11 pm

HEEEEELLLLL YEEEEAAAAAHHHHH!

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:12 pm

Yup.

Gotta love it.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:12 pm

Or we can get a quick pick from Asante!!!! Throw all the bullshyt flags you want to, it won’t help the sAints today!!!

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:12 pm

Dammit….Samuels does not look washed up to me, athletic play.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:12 pm

Oh give me a break withthe penalty….give me a break….you better make the right calls elsewhere too!

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:13 pm

Snelling sighting! Aww yeah.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:13 pm

Lol

Mike Smith is pissed.

I love this team!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:14 pm

Smitty was all over that too, LOL. He’s right…too early in the game for that ish. Love it, but too early…especially with a penalty.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:14 pm

But it is execution, had the ball dinked off Johnsons helmet and ended up as a pick 6, you guys would call for Smitty to be fired today.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:14 pm

Yea, Lofting sorta knows what is coming.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
1:15 pm

c’mon man.

i wanna dominateeeeeeeeeeeeee

not kick FG’s.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:15 pm

Katrina refs already making an appearance. Turner needs to be benched for this game. The power run game is the only thing the Taints are capable of stopping, just wasting plays and points.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:15 pm

That was a good job by the Saints D… for once.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:16 pm

One thing you have to say about Mike Smith. He don’t play. He expects his men to be MEN. All the time. How can you not be successful with that kind of leadership? And he was right, and I think the defense knew he was right. That change in field position may have been crucial in keeping us out of the endzone.

A bit of a moral victory for the sAints, but the 10 point lead early will take the fans out of the game

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
1:17 pm

I’d much rather see a play action pass on third and whatever than I had to see 33 up the middle.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:17 pm

SP

Get use to it. Falcons will be running all day.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:18 pm

I’ll take it. You know we’re going to continue running. Gotta keep them off balance so they can’t settle in against our pass attack. As long as we don’t get too conservative or too crazy, it’ll flow.

There should be more TDs against this defense, and there will be.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:18 pm

Bobby Dawg

Play action pass cannot happen unless they run the ball up the middle.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:19 pm

Exactly D, Smitty is a great leader. He will rip on their @zz, he is all steak, no sizzle. I remember when they hired him I was like WTF, but obviously TD know something the rest of the NFL did not.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:20 pm

Dent with a good tackle. No YAC

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:20 pm

But it is execution, had the ball dinked off Johnsons helmet and ended up as a pick 6, you guys would call for Smitty to be fired today.

I know you’re in love with stirring the sh!t pot…but it was Koetter that folks were made with about throwing to an offensive lineman. And it was repeated tries to the same guy. If you’re gonna get the sh!t pot stirred up, make sure you’re using a spoon, and not a pitchfork…that’s only good for picking up STRAW (hint, hint) .

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:21 pm

I bet Smitty was scouted by Belchek and the Pats. TD hired him so fast, he just knew who he wanted.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:22 pm

Speaking of running all day, the Saints aren’t total fools…they know our weakness.

We have to make sure we make our tackles (no stupid highlight-wannabe hits) and not get suckered on trick pass plays. Because the Saints HAVE to pass…they know they can’t win without it.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:23 pm

BR, I have been away, so I guess I am a little edgy. I will just watch the game….but that is coaching, if it works, your a genius, if not, your a goner. Nice tackling.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:24 pm

Well there’s our one big play given up per game.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:24 pm

And there’s the totally bulloxed tackling.

SHAMEFUL.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:24 pm

Samuel had a bad angle on the tackle.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:24 pm

Just plain embarrassing.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:24 pm

That’s why Smith got mad on the sideline.

Defense hasn’t done sh!t yet. I think that needed to happen.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:25 pm

Gonna be a shoot out, just got that feeling.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:25 pm

I expect the defense to adjust. Expect some three and outs after that.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:26 pm

MB ,

You? Edgy? Nahh….LOL.

And there’s the total argument on execution, as you noted.

Hope that’s the one big play our defense gives up all day. Barf…

We do NOT need to give them ANY momentum. Time to go take it back. Quickly.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:26 pm

Bad angles by Asante and DeCoud, but give Ivory credit. Used his speed to get outside and made a good move to get back inside. There are good players on every team.

Falcons defense usually gets fired up after getting embarrassed like that.

waynester

November 11th, 2012
1:26 pm

Smitty was right to lay into our Defensive “Leaders” you want to see intensity and passion not the kind of mental lapses on display so far…..

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:26 pm

“Bobby Dawg

Play action pass cannot happen unless they run the ball up the middle.” – BL

In case you didn’t notice Roddy was double covered on that pass…as in the safety didn’t bite so the play action was worthless. Perfect pass and catch, nothing what-so-ever to do with Turners fail runs.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:26 pm

Smitty got mad over the penalty. That ##it don’t play with him. They “talk about it”.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:27 pm

Big Lou ,

Your last two posts….definitely on the money.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:27 pm

Maybe it is not a bad idea to pass to open the run.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:28 pm

Julio is SO quick when he catches and turns. If you’re not “right there”, he’s gone…

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:28 pm

Robert Smith on the field. Seems like DK is opening up the playbook more and more

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
1:28 pm

Man ! This is the kinda stuff you just don’t expect. We just got to keep putting the points up. I agree that we need to establish the run, I just don’t think Turner up the middle is the way to do it. Quizz and Snelling are still there.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:28 pm

That’s how you run Turner up the middle. A little delay goes a long way.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:29 pm

5 for 5yds. I bet he averages 5YPC by days end. Just looks like one of those days.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:29 pm

“Maybe it is not a bad idea to pass to open the run.” – MB

There’s a novel idea that might actually work for a change lol.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:29 pm

Not quite enough blocking for that screen…

Odd thing is the fake to Turner and he would have been wide open for a second or two up the left sideline. But that wasn’t the play, so…

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:30 pm

Who is Robert Smith?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:32 pm

I don’t think there’s a set rule on whether you should pass to open the run or run to open the pass.

Especially if you can do both. You have to commit to both, ten take whichever one gives you a clear advantage.

Meanwhile the first bad throw by Ryan and the Saints pressure makes its mark.

Time for the defense to reconcile.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:33 pm

Falcons have to convert 3rd and short. Tried something different this time, but still is a matter of better execution gets you better results.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:33 pm

Just gotta be able to get a yard. Dammit.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:33 pm

That’s it, Willy Mo. Wrap up.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:35 pm

Vaunted NO offense beginning to show up. Dunta late on turning around.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:35 pm

I would say don’t punt all day. Really, go for it on every play. WTH, we are 8-0.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:36 pm

Someone please tell me Julio is ok.

Papa Lion was all over that run play.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:36 pm

Jesus, H, we can’t tackle. I really really hate the Saints.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:36 pm

We are not getting any pressure on Brees. And it shows.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
1:37 pm

Is our D going to start tackling today??

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:38 pm

Hope JJ is okay.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:39 pm

What happened to JJ?

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:40 pm

Hard to get pressure when the ball is getting out so quick, but rushing 4 is just not going to cut it. Nolan has to figure out a way to get at least one more rusher in there to throw Brees off his rhythm. Keep them to a field goal on this drive and take the momentum back.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
1:40 pm

Tackling is a problem. But, right now, Brees is dictating what we’re calling, rather than the other way around. He has us playing really soft. It’s almost like I’m watching a BVG defense. They’re not sending the heat because they’re doing a good job keeping us off balance. The play where Ivory busted it for a TD, we sent heat, and we overloaded on the side away from where the play was going. Result, TD.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:40 pm

Need to keep the Saints to a FG. Can the defense bend but not break.

I wonder how our offense responds to losing JJ.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:40 pm

Saints blocking well on the run…our DTs are getting swallowed up.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
1:41 pm

We’re getting abused…

The run game is gashing us.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:41 pm

Agreed…gotta hold ‘em to a FG. But that isn’t looking good.

Penalty helps.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:41 pm

Saints game to play (surprise), beating our brains in on both lines.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:42 pm

Good angled pursuit on that one, kept the blocking from being effective.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:43 pm

Is MM back?

LRD

November 11th, 2012
1:43 pm

That is just horrible… Our O needs to come out and score.. shoot out time

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:43 pm

And this is where the FG “hurts”…only because our defense couldn’t stop them.

NO is doing with the run what WE are supposed to do with the run. And now WE are playing from behind.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
1:43 pm

This is the worst showing I’ve seen thus far this season by this defense…

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:44 pm

Looking like the old Falcons defense now. Time for some second-quarter adjustments.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:44 pm

No excuse for letting Graham run free. Guess we will see if the defense can make adjustments to handle a very potent offense.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:44 pm

Was that whole Nolan thing a dream?

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:45 pm

I’m wondering how the Falcons respond on offense.

Defense is looking extremely pedestrian right now.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:46 pm

Still not worried. Offensively we will play better, and defensively we can make adjustments.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:46 pm

Yea, we gotta answer. That 4th and 1 on the 50 was bad. Gotta score every time.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:46 pm

Rumblin Stumblin Bumblin.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
1:47 pm

Grass tackle…. on artificial turf… for 1st down… HA

LRD

November 11th, 2012
1:48 pm

Lets go no huddle… and just punch these guys

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:48 pm

“You have to commit to both, ten take whichever one gives you a clear advantage. ” – BR

The “have to” and “cannot happen unless” attachments to BL’s and your comments are what cause an issue. There are no absolutes on offense or in football as a whole for that matter, it is that type of ancient cliche thinking which creates the MM’s of the world. The Taints proved last year and that drive right down our throats that power running up the gut is not needed to succeed, can add the Packers and a host of others. Nothing wrong with liking Turner but realizing when something or someone isn’t working is far more important than blind loyalty.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:48 pm

Not good…at all….bad throw by Ryan.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:49 pm

Much better throw.

Dodged a bullet on that previous one.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:49 pm

Crazy we are much better on 3rd and long than we are on 3rd and 1

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:50 pm

I like Rogers, but running in the NFL is not college. Don’t run backwards, nor do you stop running when being chased from behind.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:50 pm

SP ,

I’m not in the mood for semantics today, so I’ll let ya have that one without a fight.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:51 pm

I didn’t like that play either.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:51 pm

Dhunt ,

You have to wonder if it’s a mentality thing…

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:51 pm

We can win the shootout if we just score touchdowns

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
1:52 pm

“SP ,

I’m not in the mood for semantics today, so I’ll let ya have that one without a fight.” – BR

Your not my target but you do keep stepping the line of fire. The way our defense isn’t playing looks to make the whole matter moot anyways.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:52 pm

Cameron Jordan’s haircut has been unchanged since 1991….

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:52 pm

They just got away with a horsecoller tackle

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:53 pm

D yep..it is going to go down to the last play, turnovers, a penalty. After all, it is the Saints.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
1:54 pm

Long drive by these Falcons was crucial for our defense to rest up and get focused.

Let’s see if they can punch it in.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:55 pm

Big Ray, you may have hit the nail on the head. Maybe we should trat 3rd and short like it was 3rd and 7.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:55 pm

SP ,

The day I get scared about the line of fire on a blog is the day I stop posting. I once said I like your style because you hit hard….I never said I couldn’t take a hit, LOL.

And you’re right about the defense. NO’s gameplan is more than solid, and our execution is less than solid. Bad chemistry mix.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:56 pm

TG wasn’t going down for anything, LOL.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
1:56 pm

shoot almost had my prediction of Gonzo against Lofton for a TD.. shoot

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:57 pm

I knew where that play was going.

We HAVE TO (yes, I said “have to”) punch this in.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:57 pm

I agree, we HAVE TO, lol

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:58 pm

Ugh…the much-maligned NO defensive line is doing precisely what OUR defensive line is NOT doing – penetrating and making/helping to make plays.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
1:58 pm

Someone is eventually going to have to answer for not having an offensive line that can move the line of scrimmage one yard when needed.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:58 pm

LOL@ MB …

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:58 pm

We are getting whipped on both lines.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:58 pm

Dhunt ….yep.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
1:59 pm

TONY G!

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
1:59 pm

TG….100. What a catch.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
1:59 pm

100th td for Gonzo.. how about that

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
1:59 pm

There it is. Hell yeah.

Normally I’d be critical of Matty Ice locking in on one guy…but hell….if he’s making the plays and single coverage is the deal…why not?

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
2:00 pm

Ok, blood pressure returning to normal….breath.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
2:00 pm

Congrats TG. Thanks for having the patience to wait and get it it against our favorite opponent.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:00 pm

When in doubt, go to the Hall of Famer. Tony G with the 100th TD catch of his illustrious career. Too many weapons, even without Julio.

Hopefully DK will get a bit more creative and get more guys involved, because you know the Saints are going to sell out to stop Roddy and Tony after that drive.

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
2:02 pm

The D needs to settle down. We don’t need to be bitin’ on those fakes!

Somebody needs to drop the hammer on Jimmy Graham…he’s a damn hoss.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:02 pm

Hmmm.

JJ doesn’t look that bad, but knowing Smith he’s out for the game.

I agree. We need to get other playmakers involved.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:03 pm

Best thing for kickoff/punter guy – to have folks forget all about ya.

Bosher’s leg has been money for a while now and nobody remembers he was picked at a time where we had “so many other positions to fill.”

Good job, kid. Anonymity is what you want.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:03 pm

Defense needs a stop here. Need to go into the half up more than a TD on the Saints.

This is where our coaching comes in.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:04 pm

And the defense needed that long drive to catch their breath and get their minds right. At some point we have to show the Saints that we can shut down that offense. This is not a bend but don’t break situation.

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
2:04 pm

Gonzo is a bull. MR2 is on target and the running game is coming. It just looks like to me we will win this one, but it’s going to be exciting. I loved the run towards the outside by 33. Now that’s what I’m talking about. I hope to see the defense tighten it up a notch or two.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
2:04 pm

Some times I wonder about Julio Jones mental toughness.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:04 pm

Asante ticked off the Football gods with his INT celebration… and we paid for it.. now its time to just shut up and lock these guys down.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
2:05 pm

Just gashed.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
2:05 pm

“SP ,

The day I get scared about the line of fire on a blog is the day I stop posting. I once said I like your style because you hit hard….I never said I couldn’t take a hit, LOL. ” – BR

Not trying to hit hard. Making a point that we need to change our strategy because regardless of the excuses of whether it’s Turner, the O-line, or using the same damn tired power formation plays that haven’t worked in ages, if we don’t change we will lose today. If we lose to the Taints today then look out, you won’t want to be in the line of fire then .

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:05 pm

That’s the problem right there…

They’re keeping us off-balance with the run game…

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
2:06 pm

I will tell you what, we are seeing some great QBs play.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:06 pm

And what we saw there is gonna be the result of a successful run game…

They’ll get shots down field.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
2:07 pm

Bring the house.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:08 pm

There ya go…

Now pad that lead.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:08 pm

sweet…. now O.. time to score again..

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:08 pm

Needed that.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:08 pm

3 and out. Not bad.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:09 pm

They have got to start calling all those holds against John Abraham. every single play I see an offensive lineman with an arm wrapped around his throat but it never gets called.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:09 pm

Question, when is the last time we actually tried to block a punt? If we are going to fair catch anyways, cant we really go for the block?

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
2:10 pm

I wonder about JJ’s mental toughness too. What happened?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:10 pm

Better defensive stand that time, though penalty and dropped passes helped.

Then again, when WE drop passes, that helps opposing defenses.

Key to that was the first running play where the DL held the point of attack and allowed the second level to fill gaps and make the tackles.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:11 pm

Bad pass protection and Ryan tripped up. Not good.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:11 pm

We sure are doing a fab job of making the worst defense in the league look good

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:12 pm

Bosher’s leg helps…but Owens fouled it up. Dumbass.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:12 pm

Snelling too.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:13 pm

Watch out for the big playaction shotgun pass.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:14 pm

Need to stop them, really. I’d say hold them to a FG, but the truth is that they get the ball to open the second half.

So it’s better if we stop them cold, get the ball back, and get a score of our own. Or at least that’s the optimal situation.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:14 pm

Can we get a stop and a score before the half? That would go a long way towards making this a more manageable game.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:15 pm

That last offensive set was pathetic. I’m hoping that our defense can hold. Saints get the ball the second half.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:15 pm

LRD – true.

LOL@ Dhunt ….there we go with the mental wavelength again…

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:15 pm

If we can’t slow down the run game, it’ll be tough.

Much easier to get them off the field if they’re in obvious passing downs and we can get after Brees than having the watch out for both the run and the pass game.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:15 pm

There I go sharing a brain with Big Ray again.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:16 pm

AAAAAAARRRRGGGHHHHH!!!!!

Come ON, guys! Should have had the sack….should have had the INT!

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:16 pm

D took forever to get to Brees. At least DRob had his eyes on the ball.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:16 pm

Dammit Dunta. you play horrible coverage, manage to get back anyway, then miss the easy pick.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:17 pm

Dammit…this is what happens when you DO NOT make the play against Brees when given the chance.

But great pressure on that last play.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:17 pm

Peters with a play! How about that.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:17 pm

Man dude…

Bracket freakin’ Graham. Our defense looks as bad as the Saints defense.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:17 pm

How many times are the Saints going to get away with holding?

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:18 pm

Did we re-hire BVG last week??

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:18 pm

This is were we need the Spoon

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:18 pm

Two-minute defense is definitely one of our weaknesses. Just another thing to adjust at the half.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:18 pm

3 man rush? Really? That’s how you expect to stop Brees?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:18 pm

Had him again….missed him again…

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:18 pm

can’t stop the run.
no pressure on brees.

really man. what have we done well today?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:19 pm

Definitely miss Spoon.

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
2:19 pm

Brees is something especially with us not putting any more pressure than what we’re doing.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:20 pm

SON OF A….

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:20 pm

i’m speechless.

hilarious.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:20 pm

Alright its time for adjustments . They have got to stop Graham

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:20 pm

Obviously Nick can’t cover Graham. Time to get Willie Mo up there and try something different.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:21 pm

34 seconds? It’s MATTY ICE TIME.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
2:21 pm

If we cannot get pressure on Brees, this game is over.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:22 pm

Just take it to halftime man. We’re getting worked on both lines.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:22 pm

That’s not a knock on #54. Not many LB’s in the league can cover Graham. It’s a size mismatch for Willie Mo, but at least he has the speed to keep up and not give him wide open looks.

We need to get more pressure anyway, so send Nicholas on some kamikaze blitzes, and make Brees make a mistake.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:23 pm

WTF….now is NOT the time to have protection break down. And the penalty along with it.

McClure’s F-UP.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:23 pm

If that’s a hold on McClure, then every single time Abe rushes he is being held.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:24 pm

The Birds are going to be 8 and 1 after today. Unless they can adjust

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:24 pm

No timeout…we’re giving up and going to the locker room. With the Saints getting the ball after the half.

Nice.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:24 pm

i’d say that was a pathetic half of football.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:24 pm

Wabe – right.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:25 pm

We need Julio.

If he can play through the pain, put him in. Even if it’s as a distraction.

Still a lot of football left. Let’s see how the players and coaches adjust.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:27 pm

So now we have to win the second half. We got better against the run, and the only thing we haven’t really been able to handle is Jimmy Graham. Can’t afford to double him, so it’s time for some good man to man with the best defender on the field. I wonder if Beer truck could handle it, but it’s not something he’s had a lot of practice trying to do.

Every Falcons/Saints game is a battle, and I expected nothing less. Time to show that we have the heart to play even harder in the 2nd half than we did in the first.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
2:28 pm

“i’m speechless.

hilarious.” – Wabe

A blog just cannot happen if you don’t speak. I agree we “must” laugh at this display. I think Paddy O talked about being a drag racer. Our run game is like popping the parachute before the green light today. Our defense is like those skid marks but I would hate to insult those skid marks, doubt they get burned quite as bad as our D today.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:36 pm

I’m excited to see how this Falcons team deals with adversity.

Will they fold? Or will they show the media that this is a different team?

Time will tell, but I haven’t given up on the Falcons yet. I believe in our coaching staff.

Let’s hope JJ can go. He’s very important for the offense.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
2:38 pm

If Julio can get back on the field in the second half:

We can give the ball to Turner…
Julio can pick him up…
and carry his lardbutt for a 1-yard gain.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:38 pm

D needs to force a turnover.. change the momentum around

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:40 pm

Good Job Asanta

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:40 pm

3 and out. Good start for the defense.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:41 pm

Penalty helps…Samuel with a great play to stop the drive cold.

Let’s go offense. Need a TD.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:41 pm

Good start. Let’s get back that lead.

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
2:41 pm

They need to figure it out quick, because otherwise Brees is going to chuck it to Graham all day. Sure hurts not having Spoon in there…

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:41 pm

needed that…

better run defense/tackling on that drive.

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
2:43 pm

OK it’s first and ten and here comes Turner up the middle.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:43 pm

Amazing how much different that offense looks minus Jones.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
2:43 pm

Same plays on third down as last year. With same rb.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:43 pm

Ugh…

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
2:44 pm

I’m amazed ! We passed the ball on first down.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:44 pm

Man. HD is a horrible route runner.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:44 pm

Here we go….pass protection breaking down.

A note:

NO defense – 3 QB hits, 1 Sack

ATL defense – None of the above.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:45 pm

INT = Punt right there… this is horrible

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
2:45 pm

Get ready for the Aints trolls.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:45 pm

So the defense gets going, and the offense falters. Not the sort of adjustment I had in mind.

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
2:45 pm

This is how you let a game get away from you.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:45 pm

That’s just what we needed. Give them more momentum.

I won’t fault Ryan on that throw. It was on target.

Drew Davis lost that battle, Corey White won it.

And it sucks.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:46 pm

This isn’t looking good at all for the offense. Extremely disappointed in the execution.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:46 pm

Oh well probably a better field spot than a punt

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:47 pm

the offense is completely different minus Julio.

Jones is the guy that takes the doubles away from RW84. He’s the guy that’s taking tops off that defense.

Without him, we’re back to the dink and dunk.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:47 pm

Come on Falcons D

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:47 pm

Even the commentators mentioned HD’s less-than-polished route on the previous pass play.

Hmmm.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:48 pm

Disappointed in our receivers so much.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:49 pm

Its easy for them to find a rhythm With a lot of our Birds hurt

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:50 pm

we need a turn over…. this game is starting to feel like it is slipping away

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:51 pm

Don’t like this at all. Our defense is flat-out failing at all points.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
2:51 pm

Brees has all day, no pressure no win!

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
2:51 pm

Game over.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:52 pm

Have we been in a hole this big all season? We look terrible out there.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:52 pm

Why can’t Atlanta have Backs close to the teams we play. They will score To late They did

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:52 pm

say what you want about the ‘type of fan’ i am…

but i’m chalking this one up to a loss.

they haven’t shown nothing.

i’m heated beyond heated. they spotted us 10 points. and we’ve scored what? one TD since?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:52 pm

I think we’ve just about had it. We’ll have to play from behind. And as it stands, we haven’t even been able to play from ahead in this game.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:53 pm

Now we will see what we are made of. Nothing like a test to get you on top of your game.

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
2:54 pm

If anyone wants to leave right now, don’t let the door hit you in the azz!

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
2:54 pm

Its alright Guys We may need this loss to regroup . WE are still going to be 8 and 1 . Thats better than only one other team

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:54 pm

Offense needs to respond. People need to execute.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:55 pm

the worst showing of the season. honestly, we needed one of these types of losses, but it sucks that it’s against the saints.

this drive will tell which direction the game goes.

D3

November 11th, 2012
2:55 pm

Just caught up…………

Fkng Pitiful. That is just as bad or worse than BVG’s defense ever was.

No pressure whatsoever. Mole face can bake a d@mn cake back there.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:56 pm

I understand fans quitting for the game, but I better not see any players letting up. Regroup and make it happen. It’s still the third quarter!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:57 pm

Our lines are just getting beat all to hell.

We get no pressure on Brees and our front 4 simply cannot hold up at the point of attack on runs. We can’t even get turnovers, which is what you MUST get if you’re giving up chunks of yardage.

On offense, we let them beat our protection and stuff our runs, cutting off any sort of rhythm. Can’t win this way. We can only get blown out this way.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
2:57 pm

JB,

I’ll eat the crow if we win. But, nothing they’ve done thus far points to us winning this game. It’ll require multiple stops defensively, something we haven’t been able to do with the exception of a couple of drives.

Offensively, minus Jones, it’s just hard for us to move the ball. We’ll see if they can get something going here, but, it’s quite an adjustment to make.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:57 pm

oh, there is plenty of time left.. question is … is there desire and drive left

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
2:57 pm

I do begin to wonder if we are capable of playing press coverage at the line. No reason to give a 10 yard cushion when they are on the 12 yard line. That’s just asking for that quick pass.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
2:57 pm

and… time to turn it over to Matt… no huddle time..as turner is not working today

D3

November 11th, 2012
2:57 pm

People can crucify me all they want, but as long as Turner is in the backfield, this offense will NOT be dynamic.

Chris Ivory is making Michael Turner look like the biggest b!tch in the world.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:58 pm

Dink and dunk it is. Problem is that doesn’t win games when you’re behind.

D3

November 11th, 2012
2:59 pm

Fk you Lofton. That’s the best non-tackling play you’ve EVER made.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
2:59 pm

I feel like we should be going for it on fourth at this point. Maybe it’s just me.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
2:59 pm

Ok, that says it all right there. Lofton makes the play against the pass.

Say what you want, but when we’re playing this damn badly, what’s there to feel good about?

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
2:59 pm

I’m sick of the garbage play Turner for -1.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
2:59 pm

Should have been PI.

Good to see Julio back. If defense can make a miracle stop… the offense can click.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:00 pm

Yeah, to hell with Lofton. Nothing personal, of course.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:01 pm

The Falcons need a spark.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:01 pm

Awful play calling. How many time do you have run the ball on first down with Turner before you realize it’s not working?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:02 pm

I’ll agree with what has long been a thought around these parts – Turner doesn’t fit the offense (but he’s what we have right now) and we need an explosive RB.

Meanwhile great play by Ray Edwards, who I forgot plays for us…

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:02 pm

Defensively, it’s the run game. Pure and simple. It’s hard enough stopping Brees as it is, but when he has a run game to lean on to get those playaction passes going, that’s when it gets to be undefensible.

Ken Strickland

November 11th, 2012
3:02 pm

Smitty and Co can’t continue ignoring our OLs inability to run block, or our DLs inability to stop the run. Some changes have to be made because it can’t get much worse than the status quo.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:02 pm

I mean guys, help me out. What is the deal with our terrible pass rush? We’ve NEVER had any consistent pass rush outside of Abe. WTF?

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
3:03 pm

“I’m sick of the garbage play Turner for -1.” – Deplane

Must be done. It has to happen. Those -1 yards plays open up something…the Taints lead I believe.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:04 pm

Wide the F open.

Nolan is not earning his Fng paycheck today.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:04 pm

D3 you are right about Turner. Looks like previous playoff games.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:04 pm

Saints can afford to grind the ball/clock a bit. But they won’t. Unlike us, they’ll try to hit a homerun until the last whistle blows.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:05 pm

About time we had a sack.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:05 pm

About damn time. Defense makes a big play.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:05 pm

Defense has made a couple stops here…

That offense needs to start making this defense look like the worst defense in football…

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:05 pm

Defense steps up and sent Nick like I said. This game isn’t over by any means. All we have to do is keep our composure and play hard on both sides of the ball.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:06 pm

Just what we needed…

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:06 pm

This is where the Falcons can gain momentum.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:07 pm

I never saw a reply of either of those calls against the Falcons. Antone Smith can’t make mistakes like that and expect to get on the field.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:07 pm

Big Ray — RE: the homerun, you got that exactly right. Not Smith’s mentality.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:08 pm

BR the Falcons don’t have to give first down away when behind.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:08 pm

I’d rather us take our chances on Snelling/Quizz on these runs as opposed to Turner. But we also aren’t getting a lot of push out there.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:09 pm

Wings – oh I agree…

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:11 pm

BR — No one will ever confuse our OL with anything worth a d@mn, but there is a marked difference between the way a guy like Chris Ivory runs the ball and the way Turner runs the ball.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:12 pm

Well, Matt Ryan isn’t giving up. He’s about to get more rushing yards than Turner — on a sneak! But, Ryan’s getting mad.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:12 pm

Here’s the thing. We can talk sh!t about the run all we want…

But tell me what the pass protection has looked like since the first quarter?

It’s a trap. We can’t run, therefore we are forced to pass, and right now.

1) The protection is BAD.

2) Julio is HURT.

3) HD can’t seem to run a route.

4) Drew Davis can’t either.

5) We’re penalizing ourselves to death.

So while I’m sure there’s a genius in here that has the answers, I’m at a loss to what they might be.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:13 pm

Where’s the playcalling, from the first part of the game?

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:13 pm

Game isn’t over yet.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:14 pm

Why aren’t we using the no huddle. It’s not like the Saints fans are being loud. I’m not saying it’s desperation time, but the offense needs to find a rhythm and they still look out of sync, even though they are moving the ball.

Big Al

November 11th, 2012
3:14 pm

To have a chance at a successful postseason, the Falcons will need to acquire a quality running back and a quality offensive line. The current offensive line is not effective at opening holes for Turner and Turner is not effective at finding the holes when the current offensive line opens them.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:16 pm

Time for some Katrina home-cooking baby.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:17 pm

Katrina Refs.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:17 pm

Time for one of those patented fourth-quarter comebacks.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:17 pm

Douglas caught that ball, but I don’t know if they overturn it because of the shots don’t show a clear cut picture of him having his hands under the ball…

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:17 pm

HD caught that ball, but is there a camera angle to make them overturn the bullshyt call on the field. The ref that called it was behind the play and could not have seen that ball touch the ground even if it did.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
3:18 pm

Katrina refs get to work. Wanna see us pull this out but were in their sweet spot now.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:18 pm

D3 ,

No sh!t. But that wasn’t my point at all. I said I’d rather have Snelling or Quizz in there….but there’s no guarantee that we’d succeed with the run game that way. I just think we’d have a better chance if it came down to runner vs. a single tackler.

Problem is that our blockers havent’ been winning battles like the Saints blockers have, which is part of what has sprung Ivory.

No doubt Ivory is a better/faster/quicker/shiftier RB. No doubts whatsoever. But all that shiftiness and speed counts when you get to the second level. Ivory has had the blocking that has largely taken care of the first level of defense…and then he’s also quick enough (and smart enough) to get to the outside edges where his speed works.

By contrast, Turner has ZERO speed until he’s been allowed to motor for AT LEAST 5 yards UNTOUCHED. But…if you put Quizz or Snelling in there at least they hit the hole quicker….if there is one. And for some reason Antone Smith doesn’t get reps.

So we’re stuck.

Big Al

November 11th, 2012
3:18 pm

Part of the problem is that the Saints know that our only chance of moving the ball is through the air since the Atlanta ground game is basically non-existent.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:18 pm

Dhunt

They are trying to eat up the clock and give their D rest. It’s a smart move that can get us a chance of getting another 3 and out.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:19 pm

That’s a fkng BS call right there.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:19 pm

Hell yeah that was a catch.

Best thing HD has done all year. Too bad it might be the ONLY time he does it.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:19 pm

Thats complete BS.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:20 pm

Protection break down again.

Penalty helps though.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:20 pm

BR — yeah, it’s getting harder and harder to defend HD, even though that was a catch

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:20 pm

I was wrong….HD comes alive again….

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:20 pm

Nevermind. HD proves me wrong.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:21 pm

Now we’re getting somewhere. Nice play by Rodgers.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:21 pm

Ok, that was ALL ABOUT RYAN’S READ OF THE DEFENSE .

So tell me something….WHY IN THE HELL ARE WE NOT RUNNING THE NO HUDDLE?

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:21 pm

There we go. Loving the moxie.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:21 pm

TD! BOOM!!

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

ONE possession game.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

TG wins the battle….Ryan with his 3rd TD.

Defense needs to get a stop/turnover..then we take the game back.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

Ok D.. the game is now in your hands… do something!!!

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

There we go.

Gotta get a stop from defense. Good luck with that.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

Let’s go.

I’ll eat the crowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

It’s the Julio effect man. Look how deep that safety has to play with Jones out there. It leaves the middle of that field wideeeee open.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

The comeback is on now.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:22 pm

Defense makes a stop..,

The Falcons can get the lead.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
3:24 pm

Ok. it’s D time damnit!!!

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:25 pm

This game will boil down to if the defense can stand up and hold the Saints scoreless in this quarter.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:25 pm

Nice tackle by Dent.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:25 pm

I’ll eat crow for a week, if the Birds will take this opportunity to rip the Aints.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:26 pm

Dent again…but he was a bit high on that tackle, otherwise Ingram gets nothing.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:27 pm

3rd down stop! That’s what I’m talkin’ about.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:27 pm

I’ll take it for sure. But the play clock had expired.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:27 pm

Yes! Birds are angry!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:27 pm

Awesome stand, because it was surely a trick play.

Our defense was showing something Brees was scared to death of.

McClain shows once again why he made this team.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:27 pm

There we go.

I believe in you Falcons. I will never give up if you don’t!

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:28 pm

lets goooooo man

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:28 pm

Franks with the proper wave off this time…LOL….

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:28 pm

Pressure and coverage. That’s what you do to beat the Saints. Good defensive stand

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
3:28 pm

We have to score on this drive

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:29 pm

Ryan with some brass ones…that was damn near a sack.

GREAT block by Blalock to save Baker’s arse (and Ryan’s).

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:29 pm

JULIO! BOO-YAH!!!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:29 pm

JULIOOOOOOOOO!!!!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

I knew it….Katrina Refs are gonna call that on Julio…just watch…

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

Hope the child is okay, but dang that is bad timing.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

Hah!!!! I was wrong….that was great call!!!

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

lets gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

beastmode Jones

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

I would give up three draft picks just to KEEP Julio.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

Did you see that great pickup Block by Blalock!!!

And an absolute outstanding play by Julio, especially to not get called for the push off on the defender

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
3:30 pm

Please Pray for this Child Cage . It is more important than this game . Are any game !!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:31 pm

See….that’s exactly what I’m talking about.

1) There was no hole because the OL didn’t win the battle.

2) Turner has not the speed to go outside and score.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:32 pm

I hope we get the F@cker that took the child. Glennville is about an hour and some change from where I am.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:33 pm

How is that not pass interference? He basically cross body blocked Julio after getting beat off the line.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
3:33 pm

sucks to not punch it in, but we good.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:33 pm

Why make it so hard on Ryan. Wasted first down.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:33 pm

How is that not PI?

Dude practically dived in front of Julio to prevent the catch.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
3:34 pm

Why are we Kicking a field goal .

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:34 pm

Dhunt

I totally agree. Yet, if the defense can hold here…

The game is ours.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:34 pm

How’s that trade looking now? What an effin player. JJ is the man.

And then we kill our drive with Turner.

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
3:34 pm

If any time to go for it its now

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:34 pm

Ugh….redzone woes…

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:36 pm

Hell yeah, bring that pressure!

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:36 pm

Pressure!

PoolerSpirit

November 11th, 2012
3:36 pm

When did the Saint’s hire Christopher Lloyd as their coach?

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:36 pm

Just don’t get the Turner thing guys, maybe ya’ll can help me out. Is it Smitty?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:36 pm

We need to put a hurt on somebody.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:37 pm

Pressure and coverage. PRESSURE AND COVERAGE. Got to get to Brees and not let him step up and find guys sitting in the zone

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:38 pm

Nice work by the Bier Truck.

Our defense seems to have reaquired their attitude.

I know it’s been hard without Spoon on the field as a fiery leader and playmaker.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:38 pm

Compare the way an undrafted player like Chris Ivory runs and the way Turner runs………………not even close.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:38 pm

How the HELL was Graham that wide ass open??!!!

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

Okay, that’s entirely on Moore. He slowed up and wasn’t even looking for the ball.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

How?

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

that is pathetic.. just pathetic

Big Al

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

Why the F can’t someone
cover Graham????

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

Clock is ticking.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

It’s always that one big play that you give up that haunts you.

3rd down play looks like BVG was coaching it.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:39 pm

ATL defense is beating themselves.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:40 pm

No pressure. Ever. 1 sack and no other hands even touch that mole-face @sshole.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:40 pm

can we hold them to a field goal?? Please……

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:40 pm

Need to make this stand…

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:41 pm

Hard-hitting Falcon DBs get the job done.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:41 pm

D3 it’s got to be Smitty.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:41 pm

Held to a field goal; that’s a win. Now it’s Matty Ice time.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:41 pm

Need a TD. And another defensive stand.

Damn this is a close one. Let’s try not to bullox it up.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:42 pm

Good job. Now let’s get a TD, offense!

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:42 pm

We know we can score. I knew I should have took the under on this game

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:43 pm

I’m sorry, but the defensive issues have nothing to do with coaching. Players are just making mistakes.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:43 pm

Turner up the middle?

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:44 pm

Please don’t run mt on first

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:45 pm

You know.. we have the saints right where we want them…..

Big Al

November 11th, 2012
3:45 pm

OK, 80 yards in 5:30…let’s eat the clock and score 7

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:45 pm

Ryan throwing the ball too low. Come ON, man!

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:46 pm

Rodgers is awesome at making people miss.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:46 pm

Quizz is KILLING me with that step back…but he keeps getting yardage out of it.

I don’t know how to feel about that…except stressed, LOL.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:46 pm

Turners relacement

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:47 pm

Ryan’s fault…head was turned the wrong way, but there WAS pressure.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
3:47 pm

“Compare the way an undrafted player like Chris Ivory runs and the way Turner runs………………not even close.” – D3

When one considers that the FO made the move to get M. Cox back in the line-up instead of combing practice squads or the CFL for even a somewhat plausible multi-dimensional feature type back…an answer might be postulated. I’ll leave it to the boards’ genius I hear so much about to figure it out.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:47 pm

We must be in love with 3rd down. My nerves are shot.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:48 pm

HD comes through again ….

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:48 pm

Go

Big Al

November 11th, 2012
3:48 pm

Stop stepping out of bounds!!!!!!!!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:48 pm

WOW.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:49 pm

Enter your comments here

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:49 pm

OMG!!!!

Where has been the carries for THIS guy???!!!

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:49 pm

Offense is on a ROLL.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:50 pm

HD again…..

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:50 pm

Replace turner now with quizz

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
3:51 pm

You notice it’s Quizz and Snelling in the game when it matters. That shows the coaching staff is not oblivious to who is the most productive option in the backfield

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:51 pm

Ryan = elite = 400+ yards…show Mole Face how it’s done Matty! End this with a TD!

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
3:51 pm

We’ll score, but that two-minute defense will need to step up big time.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:51 pm

I don’t care who eats crow. I just want the W!

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:52 pm

D3 next week subject needs to be time for Quizz to replace Turner. How much longer can Smitty be in denial?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:52 pm

Dhunt – good point. And Quizz proved them right.

Turner’s time is all but done. I seriously think he was kept because of the money. That and it’s never bad to have a strong, pounding RB to beat up on and/or scare/distract defenses.

But we’ve needed to get more speed/cutting ability into this offense for a while.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:52 pm

I’m confident in the defense.

Ever big play so far was a mistake on the Falcons.

If they focus, they can win.

Big Al

November 11th, 2012
3:53 pm

I feel good about getting 7 but the Aints are going to get the ball back with too much time on the clock

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:53 pm

I don’t care who eats crow. I just want the W!

Agreed…

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:54 pm

WHY….WHY….WHY….

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:54 pm

why are we running the ball\

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:54 pm

You can depend on Turner up the middle.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:55 pm

No!

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:55 pm

I’m loving this game.

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:55 pm

Fkng Turner. Really MF’ers?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:55 pm

I smell a decoy…

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:56 pm

thats the game

D3

November 11th, 2012
3:56 pm

Clabo again.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:57 pm

That would be game.

Wasted a shot at the endzone with Turner.

So much pressure Ryan had to get it out quick.

Ryan missed.

Saints need only play Smittyball to end it.

8-1 unless a miracle happens.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:57 pm

Rats!

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
3:57 pm

Un effing believable.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
3:57 pm

running turner was a total wasted down…

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
3:58 pm

It ain’t over.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:58 pm

Marty never changed. Smitty will never change.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
3:59 pm

Matty Ice time.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
3:59 pm

Lots of time

Birdman

November 11th, 2012
3:59 pm

Now that deserves a win for the Saints . Oh well I am off to Hilton head for work . You Gotta be proud of 8 & 0 For our Birds.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
3:59 pm

Nice stands against the run (needed that earlier in the game though). Won’t be enough by itself.

Out of timeouts.

Didn’t like the call with Turner, but don’t think we get in the endzone with the same play with another RB…OL did NOT win that battle at all.

I’m done with Clabo. Dude is all but useless. Worse than Baker when he’s injured.

Let’s get this done. Offense has another chance, please don’t blow it.

HD at punt returner = probably a good move.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:00 pm

Big Ray

The game is nowhere near over.

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
4:01 pm

Going to get one last shot at it w/no timeouts.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:01 pm

WTF…what is with the penalties today?

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
4:02 pm

Ice can do it!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:02 pm

Big Lou – I know, but my nerves are gone, dude. Just gone …I think I have ONE left, LOL.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:03 pm

Matt had the first down if he runs out of bounds.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:03 pm

OMG….Roddy open…overthrown…or did he slow down too much…

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:04 pm

TG drops the ball.

It must be fate/destiny.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
4:05 pm

the worst game to lose, and we lost…

the redzone offense is officially a worry. it’s been a concern a while, and it proves to be critical today.

D3

November 11th, 2012
4:05 pm

ball game

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
4:05 pm

Roddy could have had it.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:05 pm

Roddy had it….

Sigh. Oh well. I liked how the Falcons faught back.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:05 pm

Over

LRD

November 11th, 2012
4:05 pm

Smitty is going to go crazy on them after this… ridiculous

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
4:06 pm

Uncharacteristic mistakes on that drive. Not the way to finish a game.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:06 pm

Big Ray

That was all on Roddy.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:07 pm

This loss is on M Smith for keeping Turner in game and running him.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:08 pm

To avoid the massive incoming of negativity, I am just going to call it a week.

I give a lot of credit to the Falcons battling back. They are a different team.

It was a loss, but a necessary one. I feel bad for the Cardinals next week.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:08 pm

Well, we know what went wrong in that game.

I’m not going to stick around for the usual boo birds to tell us. Hindsight being 20-20 and all…

Couldn’t execute. Penalties. Bad play calls. Using Turner when we should have had Quizz out there. Dropped passes, no blocking. So many things to make a close game a loss.

I’m worn out on this. We’re 8-1, we can get back to winning next week but damn does this one hurt. Hurts bad.

I hate the Saints.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:09 pm

Big Lou – agreed on your last two posts.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
4:10 pm

Not “all” on Roddy. The rest was on no-pass-rush, no-running-game, and no-run-defense.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:10 pm

Well there’s one game that some will feel justified in posting all week about. Lord knows they’ve had 8 weeks of having to shut their traps…lol….

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
4:12 pm

We will get them in our dome Nov. 29. It will be made right. It’s all good!!! Our o-line and d-line sucks and it will hurt us in the playoffs but the Saints are a team we should beat anyway.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:12 pm

I wanted to beat the aints.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:13 pm

greg mendel ,

Nobody is saying that the game was all on Roddy. Just that one play, where he was open, the ball was far out enough…Roddy got turned around and slowed down instead of keeping on going.

Same on TG…on that ONE play. He let the pass slip. Two failures to execute on a potential game-winning drive.

I agree that we had issues all game long.

But nobody says that about the Giants when Eli mounts a comeback in the last minute of the 4th quarter to win a game, do they?

Maybe because when you CATCH THE BALL, all else is forgotten in the win.

When you don’t..and you lose…it all comes out…but so do the last second failures.

Ryan couldn’t have thrown the ball much better than that.

DHunt

November 11th, 2012
4:13 pm

Let’s not start all the wailing, lamentation, and gnashing of teeth. We should have won this game a couple of times and we let it slip out of our hands. The question was, could we come back against a prolific offense, and we did, we just didn’t seal the deal. Nobody here predicted a perfect season, we are still 8-1 and the Saints have to come see us next. There is enough blame to go around, so no need to over analyze why we didn’t get in the endzone on the couple of occasions that we should have.

The defensive adjustments after halftime worked out pretty well. We slowed down the run and other than that one last big play to Graham, we pretty much shut him down as well. The offense moved the ball, and just a couple of missed opportunities kept this game from ending the way we wanted.

The goal was always to play TWO games in the Superdome this season. We are still in line to reach that goal.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
4:14 pm

“It was a loss, but a necessary one” – BL

You are kidding I hope.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:14 pm

Greg

That play was all on Roddy. Nobody said anything about the rest of the game. If he kept running, it would have been a TD.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:15 pm

I’m out…sick to my stomach…that one hurt. For a variety of reasons. But also because our two best pass catchers failed at the end. I ain’t laying THE GAME on them, but when the chips are down, who can you trust? That’s what those last gasp plays are all about.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:15 pm

Greg you are right. Matt had run out of the pocket and that means coming back to the QB. Roddy did his part in the game.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:16 pm

Dhunt ,

I agree…it just hurts. I hate the Saints THAT BAD, LOL.

And I see the fireworks are starting in the usual place, so I’m out. Just not in the mood.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
4:16 pm

One Loss… oh well… great teaching moment for Smitty ( ie Cut the penalties) that we cannot rely on Turner, and that Ryan CAN carry this team. Full faith in our team.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
4:16 pm

Our defense was porous today…and we still managed to stay close. I don’t know why Smith is so hell bent of trying to run Turner. When we were on the goal line, 2nd and goal, Quizz should of been in the back field.

We have the worst, starting running back in the leauge.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
4:17 pm

I don’t think so. Roddy should have had his eyes on the ball as well. Miscommunication, maybe?

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
4:18 pm

I guess it’s time to look for some silver linings.

The main one is that this team will be really pissed off down the stretch.

Time to go 15-1.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:19 pm

SP

No. It’s good the Falcons lost in a competitive game, and against their rivals. You know how focused this team is going to be next week? Like I said, I feel sorry for the Cardinals.

A lot of the loss was on poor execution, period. And, I don’t have time for your nonsense this week. Enjoy your week of triumph on beating your chest and saying you were right. Cause, I don’t really care. All I care about is the Falcons winning in the playoffs.

This loss is gonna leave a really bad taste in their mouths. See past your ego for a second, and realize how this loss can turn this team into a dominant force.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
4:20 pm

You’re right, Big Ray. I’m just humiliated by losing to the Aints. More than that, the one thing that drives me nuts is watching “the Burner” lose yardage play after play, game after game.

The Birds will adjust, but they can’t adjust Turner.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
4:22 pm

“No. It’s good the Falcons lost in a competitive game, and against their rivals.” – BL

You said it not me. Next time you attack me or anyone elses’ fanhood around here, just keep your tripe garbage to yourself.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
4:23 pm

Thing that bothers me, the build up to this game, the intensity, had all the makings of playoff atmosphere, proves we sitil have trouble performing on the big stage, winning BIG games.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:23 pm

You can see on Roddy’s face that he screwed up.

He was complaining on pass interference, but the ball was thrown where the play designed it.

It wasn’t the only pass either. I’m impressed with Matt this year–very impressed. Bad receiver play lead to his int and 4 incomplete passes.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
4:24 pm

the redzone offense man…

the falcons came into this game trying to pound turner.

when we went down double digits, we pretty much abandoned the run game and ryan drove us down field with ease.

but again, the redzone offense. you can’t keep kicking FG’s when we need TD’s.

the drive we kicked the FG to cut it to 28-27 was tough. and then the drive after that, we have 4 opportunities, and we fall short.

it happened in the dallas game too. we marched the ball up and down the field on that dallas defense. racked up almost 450 yards or so. but we kept kickin’ FG’s. saw some bad redzone offense again today.

they have to square this away. it’s a learning experience. we were bound to lose eventually. and honetsly, we needed to lose. but really, it sucksssssssssssssssss that it’s against these freakin’ scrubs.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:26 pm

Somebody

That’s not fair. The Falcons won Sunday night against the Cowgirls and Monday night against Peyton. They are not gonna win every game. I just think they came out too overconfident and made stupid mistakes. Losing Julio really hurt as well.

D3

November 11th, 2012
4:26 pm

Working a new post. Had a feeling we’d lose. Let’s just be honest, we deserved to lose and we all knew it was coming. Just had to be with the sAINTS.

If we cut Turner tomorrow, I’d be OK with that. I obviously can’t blame Smitty or Koetter because I don’t know who calls the shots, but GD, those plays to Turner are the biggest joke in the world. Wasted plays.

Keep your head up Boys, long season and we d@mn near came back to win. Hard to believe we couldn’t put that one in the endzone. Turner, Turner, Turner, Turner, Turner. I’m sure SP will be on it quick, but that play-calling in the red zone is d@mn criminal.

Hey, we’re 8-1 and now we can get the media-elite-clowns to go back to talking about the Jets, Giants, Cowboys, Eagles, sAINTS BS drama and let us fly under the radar again.

D3

November 11th, 2012
4:27 pm

SP / BL — Can we please keep it civil Gentlemen?

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:28 pm

SP

You’re a coward to use semantics on my comments to try to disprove my loyalty to the Falcons. It’s extremely pathetic and I’m glad that you show your true colors.

Big Lou

November 11th, 2012
4:31 pm

D3

Keep it civil? The dude is attacking my posts. I know he’s a vet, but it’s not the first time he’s done this.

Whatever. I rather listen to the media talk crap about the Falcons at this point, then be criticized for looking at the bigger picture.

Slant Pattern

November 11th, 2012
4:33 pm

“I’m sure SP will be on it quick, but that play-calling in the red zone is d@mn criminal” – D3

No need. I pointed some things out long ago and have done nothing but catch crap from a certain knucklehead about it. He can tell you guys all about what has to happen. I’m gonna take a break for a bit. Smitty and crew will not get the hint, that much should be clear after many years of the same dmn thing. I’ll change things up instead. Luv ya D3 and others but when I’m getting crap from certain people I actually like then it is time to take a vacation.

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
4:36 pm

We got out played and out coached and it hurts bad, but we’ve got a long way to go in this season and this may not the only loss we’ll suffer. Above all don’t get mad at each other. Just get even when the pis ants come to Atlanta. GO FALCONS !

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
4:39 pm

Dam…..why is it when Roddy runs his mouth, karma bites his @zz?

But really, we made uncharacteristic mistakes and penalties. Obviously getting the ball inside the 5 with twice in the 4th quarter and coming away with 3 pts is gonna kill your team.

The one positive I take out of this game is Nolan showed that he could make the adjustment once again to hold the Saints to 7 second half points.

I am more concerned about our inability to gain a yard than anything else. Turner is too slow, but when you get pushed back off the line, it is hard to win.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
4:40 pm

Really, we were stopped in the redzone (goal line) by the worst defensive team through 8 games in NFL history. REALLY!!!

Sportaree

November 11th, 2012
4:40 pm

Cagers, Its good to see positive comments after such a heartbreaking lose. But I think this will help our team in the long run. Many times we have to rise from the ashes of defeat to enjoy the thrill of victory.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
4:42 pm

*Modern NFL

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
4:46 pm

Somebody….Just goes to show what the modern NFL is. Because the Saints did make plays, they swatted a few passes away, blew our O line off the ball, and played inspired. They whipped us. As I said, “bad” teams are more than capable to play well and putting up a good effort any time.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:48 pm

MTurner 13 rushes for 15 yards
JRodgers 3 rushes for 29 yards

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
4:50 pm

The Saints D was so bad because they started the season with a brand new D coordinator,who did not know the personal, no head coach, an no interim coach, and coming off a pretty bad off season.

The Saints are rounding into shape, they are gonna be competing for a playoff spot come week 16,…DAMMIT.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
4:52 pm

Wing, yea, I was hoping to see Quizz get the ball at the goal line at the end there. He seemed to have some momentum going.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:53 pm

We would have had a better chance with some QB sneaks rather than the MT runs. I noticed during this game and last weeks game, MT is about 8-9 yards behind the line of scrimmage. When the blocking begins there are some openings. It takes MT so long to get to the line that any glimpse of a hole has closed. In the plays that he gains yardage, the holes are “WIDE” and any back could make a good run.

SP I agree with everything you have said. Nothing will change with the Falcons and with the #@%xxx on here.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
4:57 pm

Somebody – I agree with your comments. I thought I was at one of those big games where MT can’t get a yard. Ground Hog Day with HC Smith and gaining one yard. It it doesn’t work for two years, surely it will change. Turner is the biggest weakness of the team.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
5:01 pm

And I am finished after this post, Turner was actually supposed to throw a half-back pass on one of the plays? Did I see that correctly. Why would the staff even consider taking the ball out of Matt Ryan’s hands to let MT pass? Some of the things regarding Turner is not logical.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
5:03 pm

The o-line is the biggest weakness on this team and the d-line is a close 2nd.

Coop

November 11th, 2012
5:07 pm

Falcon21 – that has been the case for 4.5 years now…

JJ

November 11th, 2012
5:12 pm

f21, Agree if you put Turner and WHOEVER THE FOCK is calling his plays, THEN oline and dline.
Love our new coordinators but this luv fest with Turner needs to stop. If we had a FB, then maybe things would be different, maybe. But we dont have one so plz sit his azz on the pine!!!!

JJ

November 11th, 2012
5:13 pm

Coop, nice turnaround in ffl today!

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
5:18 pm

21, on the big picture, I gotta agree with your 5:03 post. We’ve seen the Falcons try to run Turner, Snelling and Quizz into the same brick wall. Quizz has more yards but that is because they use him for what he does best, open field running, screen passes, etc.
So far, we have made the best of what we have to work with and I applaud the Falcons for that. As long as it is enough to get us beyond the playoffs and into the big game.
This loss today did not upset me as much as some others in the cage. We showed the same desire and intensity of a winner.
The only negative thing was the cagers who jumped ship before the final whistle. I guess that’s to be expected.

Wings

November 11th, 2012
5:29 pm

JB the loss really didn’t upset me that much. I had decided before the Philly game that we needed to win 3 of the next 4 games. We will probably do that.

What upsets me is what you mentioned. If we can see running straight into the line hasn’t worked, why does the coaching staff not see it?

DePlane

November 11th, 2012
5:35 pm

I don’t expect us to win every game….but losing to the Taint’s hurts for sure. They have got to do something about short yardage situations….

D3

November 11th, 2012
5:40 pm

A Plea — We all love our Birds and we’re all passionate even when we win. The Cage is different from all the other blogs because of the respect we give to one another, even in disagreement. If I could just ask that we all enjoy the lively the debate, but give one another respect. Hey, we all knew we’d lose. It was time. Sure, we should have won, but if you think we’re bad take a look at the Giants. Embarrassed by the Bengals. And the Bucs are everyone’s new darlings, BTW.

BobbyDawg

November 11th, 2012
5:56 pm

Bottom line is if we lose 4 or 5 in a row we’ll all still be right here grumbling about playing bad and waiting for the next game.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO TELL THE TRUTH

November 11th, 2012
5:58 pm

250lb running back…and we’re calling quarterback sneaks?!?! IMO, that about sums up our running game, or the lack thereof.

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
5:59 pm

Just a little something from Pat Yas that reflects my opinion, and 21’s.

Turner also lost a yard on a carry from the New Orleans 1-yard line late in the game. I know Turner has lost a step, but he still has enough power to gain a yard. I’m thinking the fact he couldn’t is as much of an indictment of the Atlanta offensive line as it is of Turner.

D3

November 11th, 2012
6:00 pm

SOMEBODY — I’ve been done with Turner since the offseason. Nothing personal, but I said way back in March that I’d be perfectly happy going with Quizz / Snelling / Antone Smith. That’s what we call “Smitty Ball.”

D3

November 11th, 2012
6:02 pm

JB — But see man, that’s where we all hardcore fans disagree. We all know how poor the OL is. We’ve known that for ages. No team is perfect and our biggest weakness is our OL. So to compound that problem we run an RB that has really nothing in terms of running…….unless you’re the Vince Lombardi Packers. Holmes at LT, Baker at RT, Clabo at RG, Konz at C……….. Nah, change is evil according to Mike Smith.

D3

November 11th, 2012
6:06 pm

A Q&A from Smith’s post-game………

Q: How unfathomable was it that you wouldn’t get a touchdown right there at the end?

A: “They have been playing a lot better defense and a lot better as a football team over the last four weeks.

This might be why we never hoist a Lombardi. Way too much F’ng respect for teams that don’t deserve it. It’s about US and not anything about THEM! SmittyBall allows any team to dictate to us and not the other way around.

Sportaree

November 11th, 2012
6:08 pm

D3,
Is that really you? If it is we have never seen you so laid back after a lose like this.

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
6:15 pm

BobbyDawg, I agree. This loss is not the end all of the season. This loss highlighted our weaknesses but did not diminish our desire to win.
D3, Lord knows MT is not what he used to be. I’d trade him for any running back NO had to offer. Problem is, we have an offensive line that couldn’t make a hole with a sledge hammer. I keep hearing that you HAVE to have a running game in order for the passing game to be effective but I can’t help but wonder what would happen if we were to say “We are a passing team and have enough receivers, TE’s, etc. that there is no way you can cover all of them.”?
However,….. I must digress to the “process.”

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
6:21 pm

After listening to local radio (via ESPN) and reading the below article…hard for me to keep my mouth shut.

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-blog/2012/11/11/saints-31-falcons-27-qa-with-coach-mike-smith/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_falcons_blog

Eric C.

November 11th, 2012
6:22 pm

Any thoughts on how cutting Polite may have affected the rushing game today, if any?

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
6:24 pm

Damn right JB!

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
6:27 pm

No affect what so ever Eric C.

Sportaree

November 11th, 2012
6:28 pm

Eric C. I’m thinking the injury to J. Jones affected the outcome of the game.

Sportaree

November 11th, 2012
6:32 pm

falcon21, Are you going for a ride on that fourwheeler tonight?

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
6:32 pm

I’ve seen Mike Smith make some changes this season. They really started when he made changes on his coaching staff. But he also made changes with the personnel, even if some were forced. For instance, I don’t think Konz would have gotten a second shot at starting without Reynolds being hurt, and judging by the way he’s played, I don’t see how Reynolds is a better player. But I’ll let that lie.

Change always seems to come slow for Smitty, but there is a change that has been needing to happen, and it has nothing to do with how much fans have wanted it.

Mike Turner cannot be our main RB with an OL that doesn’t punish the defense and win the battle on the line of scrimmage. There’s your “Captain Obvious” statement of the day – all because this statement was made ad nauseum throughout the offseason and even before that..by many folks, some louder than others .

We’ve never really been a true power running team. We had one power Guard (Dahl) and a power running back who was able to….at the time….sidestep some defenders at the line of scrimmage and turn the corner with a little speed. That power back no longer has the ability, and he’s also not good when it comes to catching passes.

We have guys that can do this. But we’re not using them nearly often enough.

I will stand by my earlier statement – you have to commit to running and passing. Stick yourself with just one of those and you’re in trouble. Who you are committing with and HOW you are doing it is another story.

You’re playing a team that has all season long given up major yardage on the ground. Why wouldn’t you commit to the run? But when your #1 RB isn’t getting yardage against hardly anybody, then does that mean you stop trying to run the ball?

No! You just stop trying to do it all day with THAT guy.

Smitty is right. We didn’t get the push on the line of scrimmage. But any idiot knows we haven’t been getting that push all season long. Why?

1) Clabo. I don’t if it’s health or simply incompetence, or what level of mixture of both. But dude isn’t getting much of anything done well. He’s average-to-maybe solid on good days, barely worth acknowledging on others.

2) Reynolds – wasn’t getting a push at all. Konz is better, obviously. But he’s working along on the right side.

3) McClure is old . he can’t help get that push anymore. Loses too many battles. Still holds his ground for the most part in pass protection but just can’t beat most guys at the point of attack. It’s over.

4) Baker. Don’t want to bag on a past favorite whipping boy, but he’s an “ok” run blocker. Blalock is better by a stretch…but like Konz…he’s working mostly by himself. Baker is adequate on his good days, slightly inadequate otherwise.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
6:37 pm

No sir, Sportaree!

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
6:38 pm

But we knew what we were getting into.

The CS certainly did. They knew they needed to protect Ryan and let him blossom more than they needed to pound Turner up the middle. And so that’s what they went with.

Ryan is so damn good now that even with some breakdowns in protection….he can still slay a defense. Today, the 5th year QB threw for 400+ yards…and they weren’t empty yards. He had 3 TDs.

“They have been playing a lot better defense and a lot better as a football team over the last four weeks. They had won three out of their last four. They are playing with a lot of confidence. When these two teams meet you can throw the records out the window because it’s going to be a hard fought battle and unfortunately we didn’t do enough to get it done today.”

There are two ways to take this, maybe three or four. What I see is a HC that doesn’t want to publicly blast his O-line for getting no push (although maybe he should) and also may not realize or want to acknowledge that he kept trying those runs with the wrong guy.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
6:39 pm

Julio’s injury is and should have been irrelevant. HD stepped up and made plays, Ryan threw to him with confidence.

Julio came back and made plays. Even the dropped pass in the endzone was a tough one that still might not have been called a TD if he made it. Defender knocked his legs out from under him as it was.

I don’t buy that for a second. We failed by not winning the battle at the line of scrimmage.

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
6:40 pm

BR, that crap from DOL’s site was MS saying, the worst defense in the league stopped us on 3rd and one. All I heard was they, they, they! What about WE got our butts beat? And exactly why is that MS? It is your job to know, isn’t it? We’re tired of getting served BS and calling it ice cream.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
6:48 pm

Now for the defense:

Got gashed something fierce in the first half, tightened up for the most part in the 2nd half.

Thomas Decoud says it was all about tackling. I agree…but I’m also wondering why they are having this damn problem. You tackle all game long, not in the second half. That led to the run game setting up the Saints vaunted passing attack.

The defense also had another issue: pressure. You cannot miss on INT and sack opportunities against Pro Bowl QBs. Simply can’t do it. And you can’t wait until the 2nd half to pressure them. What you end up with is them dropping 20 points on you in the 1st half and then settling down and making enough plays to beat you in the game while you’re having to play perfect because you’re playing from behind.

Having said that, adjustments were nice. We definitely missed Weatherspoon in that game because there were some plays where I know he would/could have sniffed out and stopped the ballcarrier in time to make plays, he gives you better coverage of Graham, particularly in tandem with a safety, and he gives you blitz options.

That said, I was not disappointed in Akeem Dent, who I thought did a decent/good job. Led us in tackles, that’s for sure.

But the pressure really stunk. We only touched Brees ONE TIME. That is unacceptable.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
6:51 pm

The negative.. Matt still hasnt won in Nola…. the positive, Ryan had a great game and again.. he can carry us… but the D needed to hold up their side of this today.
Disappointed.. yes.. bummed yes… cannot wait for next week.. Yes!

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
6:53 pm

I won’t totally fault Turner. It’s the O-Line. What does it say about our running game when we made the 32nd ranked run defense look good.

We lost. Again, it sucks that it had to be this week. But, 8-1 still ain’t all that bad. We have to clean things up. Been sayin’ it for a while, but the run defense must get better. You have to make an offense like NOLA 1-dimensional. You can’t let Brees have a run game with him, it gets extremely tough to stop them if that happens. And, that’s what happened for the most part today. We couldn’t really send much pressure because they were gashing us with the run game and we couldn’t matchup with Graham.

Offensively, I’m not saying anything more than redzone offense.

We’ll see how we respond to this.

snacktastic

November 11th, 2012
6:54 pm

What blows my mind about this game is how well we started it: Ryan goes 5/5 on the opening drive, going all the way down the field, and then Samuel picks off Bree’s first pass. Usually our start indicates how the game will go. Didn’t quite work out that way this week.

Anyhow, I’m going to have to stay away from the Falcons-related news this week; I suspect most of it will be way off base. This team is still going 15-1.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
6:55 pm

JB ,

Smitty never uses choice words when talking to the media. Never. And you can bet his players probably appreciate that, even if you don’t think that’s worth anything right now.

I’ll tell you who WILL talk his players down when they don’t perform…and will do it right to the media.

Tom Coughlin. But Tom Coughlin has earned the unofficial right to do so. He’s coached that team to two SuperBowls.

Using the media press conference/post game conference to send a message isn’t Smitty’s way. I don’t think he’s crediting the Saints with anything, he’s just leaving what he has to say for his players and coaches in HIS locker room.

I respect him for that. I don’t expect him to rip his team (or his CS) in front of everybody. He’s never done it before. Now after a loss, he always says they’ll evaluate what they did, didn’t do, and what they did wrong.

He used “we” plenty of times. Or did you or anybody else miss this quote:

OPENING STATEMENT: “I felt like this was a hard fought football game in terms of the effort. We made way too many mistakes in all three phases. I felt like we had many opportunities. We have to convert when we get in these third-and-1 situations. I know there were two early in the ball game that we didn’t convert. We talked about having to score touchdowns in the red zone. We have to do that when we are down there. With that, I’ll open it up for questions.”

Or this one…

Q: Could you explain the problems with the short-yardage offense?

A: “We had two third-and-1s. One we tried to run. The other we tried to throw it. We are not getting the surge that we need to on the run plays. We’ve got to be able to move the line of scrimmage in those third down-and-1 situations. Those are to the advantage of the offense. We are not getting that done right now. We didn’t get that done today.”

Both of those quotes came before the other one. Both of those quotes are all about Smitty saying “We” did not get the job done.

Calm down and read again…because it’s all there. Nobody is serving us crap and calling it ice cream. And you know Smitty hates the media (he tries to hide it).

After a while, you can only say so many times that you failed. Then when the idiots keep asking you the same question, you start saying other stuff.

Smitty looked pissed during and after the game. I don’t think he really is/was giving NO the credit without taking responsibility. He’s never shirked responsibility, no reason to think he’ll start now.

I will defend his style of addressing the media.

I will NOT defend some of his decisions on which personnel to use.

JJ

November 11th, 2012
6:55 pm

Big Ray, Ive posted it once and Ill try again…you might be over looking the fact that we have NO FB to plow the field for turtle, mean turner. IMHO, that is the golden ticket missing. So no FB, no Turner. Doesnt get much simpler than that!!!

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
6:57 pm

LRD,

I think Ryan got a W in NOLA a few years back in our 13-3 season. Won in OT.

But, you’re right, for the most part, NOLA has dominated Smitty-Ryan.

JJ

November 11th, 2012
7:01 pm

We wasted a dozen plays trying to force turner up the middle…WHY?
We lost our FB so use younger, shift-direction backs in our younger flock.
Just my opinion. and sit Clabos azz on the pine next to turtle!!!

John Waynesworld

November 11th, 2012
7:05 pm

It was a heck of a game and I can’t say I didn’t expect this kind of game. We were an eyelash away from 9-0, despite making plenty of mistakes in all phases of our game. Oh well, at least we won’t have any more idiotic Falcon players’ videos for a little while and our guys can get back to being focused and humble.

Sportaree

November 11th, 2012
7:07 pm

You have to admit the Saints had less 8 in the box when J. Jones was lined up outside.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
7:15 pm

Here’s the one thing about our defensive performance. It’s not like the Saints went crazy on offense. Brees threw for slightly less than they’ve been averaging this season. Where they killed us was on the ground. And if our offense had been better (blocking, running, catching) then we still would have won.

But we gave up 150 yards on 5 yards per carry and on our end here’s really the worst part – the League’s worst rushing defense held us to 46 f@cking yards .

That is insane. Especially considering certain facts:

1) Turner averaged barely more than a yard per carry.

2) Rodgers touched the ball on runs only 3 times. One was a brilliant 18 yard run that had almost everything to do with his ability to make defenders miss and almost nothing to do with blocking…the OL was getting beat on that play like most of the others. Quizz had 2 other runs for a total of 11 yards. That’s still 5+ yards per carry.

3) They weren’t going to throw to Turner…would’ve been an epic fail. They threw to Quizz, who got decent yardage each time…He was targeted 4 times, caught the ball each time. 8+ yards per catch.

This is the stuff that I blame Smitty for. Smitty says he’ll look at the tape. Really? What are you gonna see besides the same guys failing to open up holes and allowing penetration? The OL is a broken unit…some guys can perform, others cannot.

I know Smitty likes to give guys every chance to get the job done. But some are simply NOT getting the job done. I don’t have the answers, but I know what it is that I’M seeing.

Put Rodgers in the game. He’s a double threat. Let him run to the edges, he at least gives you a chance to do something besides get stuffed at or behind the line of scrimmage. He’s dangerous as a chip-blocker that can get behind the DL and into the flats.

No matter what you do…. he gives you a chance ….

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
7:16 pm

Sportaree ,

That is true. And I’m not saying YOU are wrong. I’m saying it just about didn’t matter how many the Saints had in the box. They were getting penetration into our backfield CONSISTENTLY. With their front FOUR.

JJ

November 11th, 2012
7:21 pm

ok, im done.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
7:22 pm

JJ ,

You have a point. But is a FB going to really make the difference when the defense is filling all the gaps?

FBs are for when you’re trying to keep LBs off of your RB. They aren’t for stopping guys like Will Smith, Cameron Jordan, and two no-name DTs. THOSE were the guys penetrating.

Hell, look at the NO LBs. Lofton had what…5 tackles? Hawthorne had 4. Their LBs weren’t killing us, their front 4 were. The LBs only played cleanup.

Want to see a difference? Our leading tackler was our MLB…just like in days of old. Nicholas right behind him. And those tackles were made after the DL got pushed back. Our DL did nothing .

Walker and Biermann were the best performers today, and they did nothing to write home about.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
7:23 pm

We wasted a dozen plays trying to force turner up the middle…WHY?
We lost our FB so use younger, shift-direction backs in our younger flock.
Just my opinion. and sit Clabos azz on the pine next to turtle!!!

Again…good point.

But I do look forward to having Bradie Ewing back next season. Stronger, in good shape, ready to go. He can catch passes, not just block for a RB.

And to be honest about it…I want him blocking for somebody other than Mike Turner. It’s over. No more of that. Done.

waynester

November 11th, 2012
7:24 pm

Like we always hear from our HC there were a handful of plays that we failed to make and that changed the direction of the game. The Samuels celebration really caused a major disturbance and distraction on our sideline and our defense played tentative in the following series, allowing that TD drive, not to mention putting us out of a goal-line opportunity with the penalty. Some of our leaders on both sides of the ball let us down today with sloppy unfocused play. Hopefully, this will put an end to all the tweeting and big talk. Maybe the front office believes it would be bad for team cohesion to shed Michael Turner, since he’s been such an integral part of our lockerroom during Smith’s run….

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
7:25 pm

Big Ray, I hope you’re right about MS. Reality and the Media are two different things. I’m well pleased with the game we played today and we have no excuse, so why make one? No team is without flaws and we have ours, just admit it, and like MS said, “We will address that.”
The media is already talking about our downfall so let them say what they say. I think we are in this for long tearm results instead of beating the Aints.

Falcon 34

November 11th, 2012
7:31 pm

Typical pollyanna, BS, sky-is-falling garbage you’d expect from local writers. More consumed with their need to be “right” than looking at the facts.

Did New York, Green Bay, the sAINTS, or the Colts “get that extra yard on the ground?”

Garbage…………………..

http://blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/2012/11/11/the-unbeaten-falcons-fall-in-a-distressingly-familiar-way/?cxntfid=blogs_mark_bradley_blog

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
7:41 pm

A HC who starts ripping his 8-1 team will not be a HC for long.

waynester

November 11th, 2012
7:44 pm

It would suit me fine if we didn’t see or hear any of our players on the talk show circuit like they were the last week. We weren’t sharp and the execution suffered….

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
7:50 pm

When we were down 28-17 and the Aints had the ball, I was concerned it was going to get ugly, but Kudos to Nolan for not bringing back bad memories, but we did not collapse, and go in position to win the game. I was tired of the undefeated crap and having to listen to all the moron discuss us. Go ahead, drop us to 5, ignore us, and let us get focused. I do agree, that penalty and Smittys @ss chewin’ tightened us up on D.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
7:52 pm

Wayne, I am with ya, whenever Roddy talks, he starts dropping balls. Now, he played great today, but he did misjudge a winning TD pass. It is like bad Karma.

D3

November 11th, 2012
7:53 pm

This is the stuff that I blame Smitty for. Smitty says he’ll look at the tape. Really? What are you gonna see besides the same guys failing to open up holes and allowing penetration? The OL is a broken unit…some guys can perform, others cannot.

I know Smitty likes to give guys every chance to get the job done. But some are simply NOT getting the job done. I don’t have the answers, but I know what it is that I’M seeing.

Put Rodgers in the game. He’s a double threat. Let him run to the edges, he at least gives you a chance to do something besides get stuffed at or behind the line of scrimmage. He’s dangerous as a chip-blocker that can get behind the DL and into the flats.

No matter what you do…. he gives you a chance …. —- Big Ray

That’s why you’re the man. Call it like you see it. I said it earlier and I’ll say it again……….until you address Turner as your “feature back” or transplant a completely new OL outside of Justin Blalock and Peter Konz, we’ll be lucky to win in the playoffs……..period.

Same OL as last year. We didn’t put Konz in until Reynolds was hurt.

Holmes LT – Blalock LG – Konz C – Clabo RG – Baker RG.

Tell me right now how much worse that OL would be?………………Totally serious.

I know with that OL that I could run behind a behemoth LT, a great LG, a beast at C that doesn’t get bull-rushed like a 35 year old center, an RG that is 6′6=330, and an RT whose weathered the storm at LT his whole career, easily making it better at RT.

Turner………………………don’t get me started. I called for that back in the off-season………

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-fans/2012/06/14/atlanta-falcons-what-will-the-running-back-carry-split-look-like/

JJ

November 11th, 2012
8:02 pm

F34,agree completely, but duck for the loyalist…truth never hurts! We’re 8-1 and some cagers think no prob…there are some serious problems that I’m confidant will get fixed!

JJ

November 11th, 2012
8:03 pm

We really missed Spoon today!

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
8:08 pm

this was one of those games where we did not play badly – although the D looked like kaka the first half; it came down to two problems: Mike Turner CAN NOT PICK UP SHORT YARDAGE NOR CAN HE RUN BETWEEN THE TACKLES; and Welcome Back got stupid cute again – when Ryan got us to the 2 yard line, we run turner – waste a down – then use Mike Johnson at TE in this crucial point of the game – why run both Turner AND Tony G to the same side of the endzone? Then, the throw to roddy was off. Falcons team played relatively well – but again, with the pressure on, we wilted. gigantic bummer. I think the rest of our divisional games are also going to be tough.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
8:09 pm

who here agrees to vote Mike Turner off the island?

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
8:09 pm

I thought the toss up to drew davis VERY stupid – that is NOT JJ out there.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
8:09 pm

Yes we missed spoon today. graham ate us up, and spoon could have at least put the hammer on him a couple of times.
Hoping Chicago loses tonight

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
8:11 pm

do you realize mike turner got tackled by a defender WHO WAS ON THE FING GROUND? The man has ZERO lateral movement. Mike SMith: Tell Mike Turner he is now the fullback, and play Snelling and Quizz together.

John Waynesworld

November 11th, 2012
8:15 pm

Yea. That 49ers tie is as good as a loss in the NFC home field competition.

Chop Buster

November 11th, 2012
8:18 pm

Well I expected this team to lose at some point this season, I just hoped it wasn’t against the Aints. I guess the thing that really stood out to me is this team looked like the same Falcon team that played the Aints last year–getting bullied, trying to run Turner against a defense that knows to launch at his feet and he’s stopped, getting in our player’s heads, and most importantly Mike Smith putting his famous conservative signature on this team by having the defense play in the same sorry zone defense and all game with no pass rush.

The post game comments from Smitty sounds so much like his typical B.S. This guy is just one weak panic azz HC. Calling premature timeouts, no attacking Brees and just letting him sit back and pick the defense a part. There was no game plan for the Aints.

When you play scared then you play to lose. I really hate the Aints and this one just has me so pissed I am going to stop commenting now.

Chop Buster

November 11th, 2012
8:19 pm

Turner has over stayed his welcome by one year.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
8:19 pm

“but again, with the pressure on, we wilted. gigantic bummer” Not fair, this game was not more pressure than Dallas, Philly, and just about every other game we played this season. We won several big stage prime time games.

I think the rest of our divisional games are also going to be tough…. Absolutely, I always expect competition to be tough, especially when your are the top dog getting every ones best shot.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
8:22 pm

Chop, where did they use a bad time out? I thought we lost the 1st one on the challenge, which was he had to make….We also held the Ain’t to 7 in the 2nd half, but you never know what if would have been of we scored 7 and the Saints needed more.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
8:32 pm

So if the Bears lose tonight…

The NFC playoff picture will basically look the same.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
8:33 pm

one key highlight, shown by TV and ID’d by announcers: Blalock coming off his block and saving Ryan from getting carted off the field – probably the BEST block/play of the game. Note to self: HC Mike Smith seems to think that at some time in the last 24 months, our O line has been getting push on running plays between the tackles. Question: How is that fing possible?

D3

November 11th, 2012
8:35 pm

If you don’t think Pat Y was biased before, this was actually what he wrote…………

If not, they’ll just be the same old Falcons.

That was his last line. Nothing like “NFL Entertainment Tonight, eh?” So I guess that makes Pat Y, like Mary Hart.

My reaction to reading or hearing anything from E(ntertainment Tonight)SPN, NFL (Propganda) Network, or any of the rest of the MTV Sports drivel…………… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baOKDlM-CNs

GD, if Smitty, Nolan, and Koetter don’t get this fixed to shut these fkng pricks up, I think I’ll scream.

D3

November 11th, 2012
8:39 pm

Working on a new post fam, but my advice to you would be to completely tune out all the MTV Sports garbage. If you don’t, you might want to go postal on someone or commit yourself to a psych ward.

Sick & Tired Of Being Sick & Tired

November 11th, 2012
8:40 pm

NEWSFLASH: Michael Turner IS NOT the answer at the running back position with the weak O-Line. They continue to be outsized on the line against every team that we play.

The saying….why keep doing the same thing and expect different results is really applicable in this case.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
8:45 pm

MB- if you think there is no pressure difference between NO and the cowboys – son, your head is deep up your bowels. but then again, according to you there are no bad NFL teams and BVG and MM are doing great jobs for their new employers. The Saints game was as close to playoff as we’ll see – and, we blew it again. We shall see how we react – not against the Cards – a mediocre team – but with the rest of our divisional games. If Turner continues to be our feature back and we continue to run him between the tackles AND on short yard must plays, we will continue to see BAD results. Turner picked up some yards on an off tackle play. He – and OUR OL can not succeed up the middle – except possibly on a delayed draw.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
8:47 pm

Go ahead and scream D3. It looks as though Ryan, Roddy. TG and JJ will have to carry this team on their shoulders. We will do alright in the regular season as always but when the playoffs come, one and done. The o or d-line cannot handle a good team. It is what it is.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
8:50 pm

Like I said, hate that we lost, but glad we got the undefeated pressure off. If we went 16-0, and lost in the playoffs, I would scream.

Fact is, there is NOTHING we can do in the regular season to get the label of “same old falcons” off our resume. So, may as well chill and wait for the playoff and take nothing for granted. As I said, I am encouraged that Nolan made the adjustment and we did get hammered. That would have hurt much worse, for as bad as it all went down, Roddy had the game, I don’t fault him, but it would have been nice. His yakking brings him bad Karma. I love him, but I would love to see him shut it.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
8:52 pm

What I liked about the game:

Late in the fourth quarter, Matt Ryan got pi$$ed. You Cagers can slice and dice the details all you want, but it looked to me like Ryan suddenly decided which players he could depend on, and tried to get the ball to them — even when the Aints were all over him and them.

The result was very nearly a last-second victory. Julio (playing hurt, I think), Gonzo (also playing hurt, I think), Douglas and Quizz almost made it happen. Roddy blew the critical pass play, but he gets tons of credit for keeping the Birds close enough to win.

Also, I don’t think one can overlook Weatherspoon’s absence or Julio’s absence for much of the game contributing to defeat.

Maybe Turner is just a convenient scapegoat, but he’s never “there” when he’s critically needed.
The Burner cannot burn. He has become so slow and predictable that defenses have plenty of time to stuff him the moment they see him get the ball. It’s not the O-line. Turner is so slow, running up (towards) the middle is all he can do. If there were NO defenders on the line, he’d run into his own guys or fall down.

You guys may be experts, but I see what I see — week after week. And what I see is a mollasses-slow RB that can’t gain a yard, and a passer constantly vexed because that RB can’t gain a yard.

Coop

November 11th, 2012
8:52 pm

21 – I have watched 9 games with a lot of optimism. I have seen massive improvement over years past and I have seen changes I never thought I’d see.

However, looking closer, I see a regression to the mean. In this case, Smittyball. Therefore, I have to agree with you. I don’t see this team with this coach winning a playoff game. I hope I’m wrong, but the trends are overwhelming.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
8:53 pm

21, if I saw other NFL teams kicking it, I would feel worse, but it just seems the nature of the NFL today, it is a chess match, dam near every game comes down to inches, and “bad” teams beat “good” teams. Really, I think smitty is the Master of this type of NFL, he plans for those inches. But god Turner looks bad the he does not get a crease, and is slow as molasses hitting one if it every existed.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
8:57 pm

Turner ran 13 plays. They plugged all the gaps, but we did have 400 yards of offense. Turner is not why we lost. He is ugly, but it is not the sole reason, our O line getting blown back was a much larger problem.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
9:03 pm

I hope you and me are both wrong Coop, we have had a problem for years but the brain trust cannot see it.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
9:05 pm

Try as I might to ignore the talking heads..we gave them ammo today. But again.. not that worried at this point… and much rather be the underdog still than the king of the hill.
Just hard to believe with Ryan throwing for over 400yds and 3 TDs and we still lose. That is mind numbing actually…

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
9:07 pm

Matty, with respect:

“They plugged all the gaps,” yes. How and why could they plug them? In my uniformed view, they plugged them because they had enough time to get a “heads up” from Vitt’s cellphone after the snap. In my opinion, again, no O-line in the NFL can open a hole wide enough and for as long a time as it takes for Turner to get there.

LRD

November 11th, 2012
9:07 pm

For bulletin board…. Bree’s after the game with the statement of ” They were supposed to be the best team in the league.. record wise….” that comment just needs to stew in the minds of everyone at FB

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
9:11 pm

Greg, that was 13 plays, we put up over 400 yards of offense, our QB threw 3 TDs. You can’t take the 13 plays out of that context…..But I like the phone line, that was good.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
9:12 pm

We are the Saints Biatoches, I will say our home game in December is as critical a regular season game can possibly be.

Chop Buster

November 11th, 2012
9:15 pm

We can beat the Aints with Mularkey and BVG, but we can’t with Koetter and Nolan? This has Smitty written all over this game plan. Looked no different from the other times we’ve played the Aints. And Brees’ comments shows what they think of the Falcons…absolutely nothing. They (Aints) feel they can beat this team no matter how bad they’re doing. Same old, same old.

falcon21

November 11th, 2012
9:18 pm

With the numbers Ryan put up today, can you imagine what kind of numbers he could up with more than a half azz o-line? BTW, we do have RB’s other than Turner, why not use them?

D3

November 11th, 2012
9:18 pm

The o or d-line cannot handle a good team. — falcon21

I never really thought it could be that simple, but it’s turning out that I’m pretty dead wrong. Smitty’s stubbornness will never win us a Super Bowl. The sAINTS can bring in an undrafted free agent in Chris Ivory to look like the next Marshawn Lynch and we keep running old @ss, slow @ss Michael Turner evidently just to keep him happy (note that when Turner bitched about not getting the ball and claimed “their offense” he started getting his 20 carries a game again). Meanwhile, speedy Antone Smith, shifty Jacquizz Rodgers, and hard-running Jason Snelling never see the ball, except for scraps.

Meanwhile Tyson Clabo keeps getting whipped and keeps his job intact.

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
9:20 pm

GM, you are the one that posted “Game over” prior to the second half. Your comments are valid but I wonder if you’re not an “on” again “off” again fan. Get on the wagon and stay on it. imo.

“But god Turner looks bad the he does not get a crease” – MB

MB. don’t take this personally but could you at least put the first letter in God’s name as a capital “G”? There’s alot of Christians on here.

Wabe

November 11th, 2012
9:21 pm

I agree that the O-Line isn’t doing much to open up holes…

But, that’s all the more reason to not continue to run Turner into the middle of that line hoping for that ‘one big play’…

Quizz may not be the best ‘between the tackle’ type runners. But, he was able to get the edge and pull a beautiful cutback to get a good 14-15 yards on one play. A.Smith is good to play special teams, how bout giving him some looks in the screen game or some tosses? At this point, all options should be on the table to get this run game going. Continuing to run Turner into the middle of a line that’s not getting it done clearly isn’t the answer.

Chop Buster

November 11th, 2012
9:26 pm

D3/F21 we all know they’ve never fixed the OL and DL the way the should have. It’s been a piece here and there and really no dominant player on the DL to get consistent pressure and the OL has been full of holes as well. It wall begins in the trenches and until they fix that we won’t be able to compete with the top teams in the league.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
9:27 pm

No offense meant there JB, just not proof reading very close.

D3

November 11th, 2012
9:29 pm

Chop / 21 — Great point. Three things we need to do in the off-season. Cut Turner and Grimes, freeing up almost $18 million in cap space and sign either the best OG or DT in the market. I would think that to help, but what do I know. I advocated to draft Brandon Thompson and he can’t even crack the Bengals starting DL. I still think that putting Holmes at LT, Baker at RT, Clabo at RG, and Konz at C would be an immediate fix. But hell, Smitty can’t change the OL to save his life. He only put Konz in at RG when Reynolds got hurt.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
9:33 pm

“GM, you are the one that posted “Game over” prior to the second half.” — JB Falcon:

Indeed I did post that. First, it was an emotional outburst because I was a Falcon homer watching the the Aints winning, and frustrated to the max. I later posted that I’d be happy to eat crow.

Second, did my post lose the game?

Ken Strickland

November 11th, 2012
9:34 pm

Smitty seems to be married to the BIG BACK syndrome when it comes to short yardage situations. He doesn’t seem to know that it’s not the size of the back but how quickly he gets to the line, and that’s what Turner no longer does very well. We constantly see JRogers get positive yds running the same plays in the same situations because he hits the hole quickly.

Regardless, we really lost this gm because we couldn’t stop the run, period and very poor tackling. Our DL, for whatever reason, can’t maintain their gap, or doesn’t know where or what a gap is. As a result, they’re putting way too much pressure on our LBs, who have to backup our pourous DL and as well as cover TEs and RBs out of the backfield.

On OFF, Smitty has to get out of the way and let go of the BIG RBs obsession and let Rogers and Snelling become our featured RBs. We also have to find out what’s wrong with our OL when it comes to run blocking. On DEF, we simply have to get better production out of our DL, both in run DEF and rushing the passer.

And finally, our DEF players have to stop trying to make the hit and start squaring up and making solid tackles by wrapping up the ball carrier. We definitely saw repeated exampIes by the Saints on how it should be done. I recall at least 4 critical 3rd down runs where we could have forced them to punt, but we missed the tackle, including Ivory’s TD run.

Our DEF, and team overall, will continue to struggle against the better teams if our DEF players don’t start putting ourselves in position to make the tackles, and then make them. We have to get back to the fundamentals. Our 3 main problems are:
1-an inability to run the ball
2-an inability to stop the run
3-poor tackling

JB Falcon

November 11th, 2012
9:40 pm

MB, just ignore me. I’m in a sh!tty mood because so many of my fellow cagers are being so pessimistic. NO beat us and that’s all there is to it. If the fact that it was our most hated team doesn’t wake up the FO then I don’t know what will. They played a good game and we didn’t. It is good that we could afford to lose a game and they had to win a game.
I have pulled for the Falcons since the first game and it looks like we might make it to the SB once more. I don’t like using “hope” as my only source of confidence but that is all we have. We are going to have to trust in the FO to know our problems more than we do and correct them as best as we can. I have already promised my four grandkids a jersey when we win the big one and they are still waiting…..so am I.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
9:41 pm

Ken – good to see you post! Greg – I think most folks here – the realists as opposed to the pollyanna pushers – have complained about Mike Turner for about 2 years now. At this point, he CAN NOT hit a hole; and has little speed. He needs to be our FB, or simply waive him. Also, we need some LB depth – Peterson played only so so. Our tackling was way too high – the Saints were coached up to stiff arm us and it worked fairly well. Akeem Dent is showing progress. Snelling would be a better option at RB.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
9:43 pm

JB – I’m just griping because it is the same problem over and over – running Mike turner on short yard up the middle. It did NOT work last year, and our O line is not bigger of tougher than last year. I did see a delayed draw work well last week.

Greg Mendel

November 11th, 2012
9:44 pm

JBFalcon:

I sympathize. I was in the same mood, if not for the same reason, when I made the post you cited.

Like most of us, losing is one thing — losing to the Saints is another level.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
9:44 pm

Once again, we had a good statistical game. Quizz played well when properly utilized. We still need a back who can leap. Glad to see Bruce Carter playing well.

Paddy O

November 11th, 2012
9:45 pm

greg – losing to saints is like lemon juice in the eye. sucks. especially since we are a better team.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
9:48 pm

Heh…the talking heads are all over it.

Out of all the noise, have to say ESPN’s John Clayton with the most clarity :

“When you’re 8-1, you have a big lead and you have time to take a look at these things. But the Falcons have to look at who their short yardage running back is.”

He also was trying to allude to the fact that we need to take a look at who our RB is in general . Not one word about the OL….

D3

November 11th, 2012
9:54 pm

BR — Always like John Clayton and think he’s one of the best in terms of objectivity. I lost pretty much all respect for Pat Y after this week, but the “Same Old Falcons” line just really capped it off.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
10:02 pm

JB ,

Ha….don’t sweat it bro’. We all hate to lose to the Saints, has us all in an awful mood.

I wouldn’t be surprised if Slant Pattern isn’t posting because he finally DID break that keyboard.

Seriously though…Maybe this is the arse-kicking we needed. Maybe now somebody sees that “limiting Turner’s touches” isn’t the answer to the running game, and that changing who we run and when IS the answer.

I’ve been saying I think Turner has morphed (or regressed, however you choose to say it) into a 2nd half RB. He’s the guy you pound a defense with after you have a two score or more lead going into the second half or the late 3rd quarter. It takes way too long to get him going these days, and that never seems to happen in the first half.

That, and he’s not winning on the short yardage stands.

Maybe that was still getting masked as we “got by” from week to week, winning mostly on Ryan’s arm (and his damn good corps of pass catching fiends).

Maybe now Smitty makes that change. Maybe. One can hope.

Big Ray

November 11th, 2012
10:05 pm

D3 ,

Agreed completely. Normally I’d just admit to being sarcastic…but I’m not entirely sure that Yasinkas isn’t just a closet Saints fan. Only…he forgot to close the closet door….

I’m really hoping this is our “wake up and change the RB” game…and that this loss will have some meaning in that way.

Because that is the only change we can really make. The only thing slower than Turner to the hole is Smitty to make a change. Sometimes that is a good thing. Sometimes it is NOT a good thing.

Here’s the thing…and I’m not giving up on Smitty when saying this – but you haven’t earned the right to be that damn stubborn until you’ve won in the postseason. Just sayin’.

Matty Bicep

November 11th, 2012
10:17 pm

You guys are acting like we are desperate and we have wasted time and opportunity by not making change. HELLO, we are 8-1, not exactly desperate. I just rather is happen today than in the playoffs, maybe it will serve wake up, or maybe not. But regardless, the NFL is so fickle I just try to keep emotion in perspective.

D3

November 11th, 2012
10:20 pm

NEW POST UP BIRD CAGE FAMILY!

Keep your heads up and completely tune out the MTV Sports Media Elite. I know I will be, unless I need a good ol’ laugh.

See you over there…………

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-fans/2012/11/11/atlanta-falcons-birds-fall-to-saints/

Ken Strickland

November 12th, 2012
12:36 am

Here’s what I dislike about using Turner in short yardage situations. DEFs know we’re going to run the ball and run it inside. With JRogers or JSnelling they don’t know if we’ll run or pass. They know we’re unlikely to throw to Turner in critical 3rd down situations. Besides, Rogers and Snelling are not only much quicker to the line than Turner, they’re also much harder to bring down and more capable of bouncing outside if the hole is closed.

This idea of reducing his snaps to save his legs at the end of the season is no longer an option. We need to reduce his snaps because he hasn’t bee producing early in the season when his legs should be fresh. From this point on, we should be giving DEFs heavy doses of JRogers and JSnelling.

Wings

November 12th, 2012
6:33 am

And it had to be a memorable, drama-filled game that left the Falcons frustrated by the 1 meager yard they could not get to take a lead inside the final 2 minutes of a 31-27 loss Sunday.

”It’s very frustrating,” said Falcons coach Mike Smith, who is 2-7 against the Saints and 49-15 against the rest of the NFL in his four-plus regular seasons as Atlanta coach. ”We were close. … This will be something we will learn from.”

You will? Hasn’t this happened before in other New Orleans games? I’m frustrated that you continue to run Michael Turner in these one yard situations.

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