Atlanta Falcons: Birds Lock Up Home Field

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Dear Mike Smith,

Stop. F!cking. Using. Turner.

I swear you are a moron who is going to cost the Falcons in the playoffs!

T-minus 5 sec till the MS defenders comes out to suck his hairy-white balls.

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Dirk Koetter put together another good offensive game plan tonight, Prevent offense is all Smith, I’m convinced.

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Smith, Detroit Lions are a “very good team”? They are 4-11, with two offensive weapons. If that makes them a “very good team” How will he refer to the 49′ers, SuperCaliFragilisticExpialidocious?

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The Mayans didn’t predict the world would end on December 21st or 2012. The media saw an opportunity and capitalized. The only thing that ends in 2012 is the cycle of the Mayan calendar. The media ignores the fact that the Mayans have multiple cycles in their culture. This isn’t the last time the media will spew incorrect garbage about the Mayans.

Now that that’s off my chest, I hope Antone Smith gets major burn next week. I see no purpose in playing Turner or Rodgers.

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anybody here get worried when stay puft failed to get to the LOS and gave Detroit a safety?

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Smiths addiction to the stay puft man could very well cost us dearly in the coming up off season. He is NOT a productive element of this offense – except as a late game pounder. Our first what? 2 possession were 3 and out. We also went 3 and out after the half. Our players made some excellent plays – super execution if you will. that is what won us the game. I’d say they overcame the game plan, which was again to get Mike Turner going – a lot like the last 3 years with MM. At this point, this tendency is our achilles heal. absolutely beautiful TD catch by JJ, BTW.

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“anybody here get worried when stay puft failed to get to the LOS and gave Detroit a safety?” – Paddy O

I don’t know if worried is the correct term but I thought maybe the mushrooms I put in the spaghetti I fixed might be a kind I wasn’t expecting . The amount of fail in that play is hard to fathom without the help of hallucinogenics.

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SP: I could see the path for Detroit whooping us at the last minute open up right before my eyes, like Dante looking into the circles of Hell. They got their 2 points. We kick. They throw a long TD to Megatron; get onsides kick, score again – we are tied or lose. Horrible – absolutely horrible play call. anybody have an explanation for that level of ineptitude?

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“SP: I could see the path for Detroit whooping us at the last minute open up right before my eyes, like Dante looking into the circles of Hell. They got their 2 points. We kick. They throw a long TD to Megatron; get onsides kick, score again – we are tied or lose. Horrible – absolutely horrible play call. anybody have an explanation for that level of ineptitude?” – Paddy O

The insane reliance on turtle-balling could bite us hard in the do or die situations that are playoff games. Got to get points and keep scoring until they give up. We let a dangerous team in Detroit back into the game yet again like many other teams. This will burn us eventually, teams in the playoffs will not quit thus must be destroyed.

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Dear Mike Smith,

T-minus 5 sec till the MS defenders comes out to suck his hairy-white balls.

Baaaahahahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaa!!!!!! And you KNOW WHO, too!

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And I hope that the continuous Mike Turner use is either inexplicably effective in the playoffs or otherwise is a smoke screen for what we’re really going to do in the postseason.

I’m not confident that either conspiracy theory has any teeth, however.

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If you’ve read anything of Gregg Rosenthal, you’ll know the dude’s football IQ seems non-existent.

With that said, this one statement he made should have folks excited:

“After the last two weeks, the Falcons should feel more confident than at any point this season. It sounds strange to say for a 13-2 team, but it feels like this group is just hitting its stride.”

I agree with that sentiment. They’re playing the best ball we’ve seen them play all season. The offense really got a wake up call after that Panthers game. Ryan’s played well in back to back games. I think the screen game with this group can be lethal. They can do so muich out of it because of the threat/attention Julio poses.

The next couple weeks will be somewhat boring. No meaningful football. And I’m pretty sure we’re all anxious to get the playoffs going.

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When MR2 started slumping around game 4, and we went through the misery of the middle of the season watching the Falcons’ offense barely perform, it really validated my impression of Ryan. In my observations over the last 4 years, MR2 showed himself to be a fiery competitor, an effective leader, and a really smart football player — with rather pedestrian physical skills. He often missed wide-open receivers, overthrew/underthrew, missed easy routes, and had his receivers pulling all kinds of contortions to catch his inaccurately thrown balls. Especially last year, I think RW84 got a bad rap with the dropped passes since I thought Ryan’s inaccuracy accounted for a good portion of them. That was my opinion based on observation, and though I was vilified for it, I was firm in my convictions.

Until now.

After watching these last two games, I can tell you that Matt Ryan is as good a QB as any playing in the NFL right now. He will get his “Elite” badge in the coming post-season, and will have earned it without controversy. I am incredibly impressed with MR2’s mastery of the passing attack and, yes — I will admit it — his passing accuracy. And he shredded the Lions while under constant pressure last night.

What a great performance. Two in a row heading into the playoffs and now the Falcons get to play at home. Hopefully, the rest of the NFC is taking the approach of the idiots that write for ESPN and come into the dome thinking the Falcons are overrated. It will set the stage for much weeping, wailing, and gnashing of teeth come February 2013!

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Every year Ryan gets better. Not only are his numbers up, as usual, but he’s making all sorts of throws that he might not have made last season. I think it’s a mix of an improvement in his skills, and simply being given the opportunity to throw it with as much freedom as he does. When we stop trying to force the run and give Ryan the keys, he’ll improve anymore. MVP, hands down.

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And Pat Y at ESPN issues a perfect statement:

What I didn’t like: The way the Falcons insist on continuing to try to establish Michael Turner and the running game. Look, it just isn’t working. Either make Jacquizz Rodgers the feature back or just scrap the run totally and put everything in Ryan’s hands. The Falcons had a 21-6 halftime lead, but they were stubborn about Turner and the running game early in the second half and that gave the Lions a chance to get back into the game.

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*even more. I shouldn’t be making typos when I’m on vacation.

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That 3rd quarter let down was all about getting away from what had worked so well in the first half. Instead of methodically moving the ball down the field, the Falcons offense seemed to want to get in that knockout blow really quickly and started just chunking it deep to see what would happen. And that resulted in one three play drive and one 6 play drive. Which gave Detroit’s defense some life and made them think they had a chance to get back in the game. Combine that with Detroit’s offense getting on a bit of a roll and keeping the ball for long stretches and you get what looks like a nailbiter game. It wasn’t “Smittyball” that caused the letdown. In fact it appeared to be the exact opposite, combined with a significant decrease in focus and execution. That can happen when you have soundly thumped a team for 30 minutes and you start to feel invincible.

Isn’t it great that our coaching staff and players can make the adjustments, on the field and the mental adjustments, to regain their poise and elevate their play. Even with all the yardage Detroit ran up in the 4th quarter, the Falcons were firmly in control of the game. Even after than inexplicable handoff to Turner, staring at 8 men in the box who all expected the inside run that had no chance of getting out of the endzone from the time the ball was snapped. Even after that, the defense came back out and said, you may get a few more yards, but you will not get anywhere near to making this game close.

Regarding Turner, he is really compiling a bunch of crappy film that will not bode well for him over the offseason when everyone is reviewing the tapes frame by frame. It’s beyond a doubt now that he isn’t what he was. He hasn’t been playing hurt. He hasn’t been run into the ground. He just doesn’t have the burst and dynamic nature that made him a force for his first four years as a Falcon. At this point, I think it’s too late to just bench him and go with something different, and I think it’s not really necessary. Everyone keeps saying the Falcons don’t have a run game. They only tried to run it 20 times last night, and still only threw it 35. And still put up 31 points. Perhaps it’s time to admit that they don’t need that run game to burn clock, or slow down the rush, or get short yardage. They are getting all of that done, without a significant run game. Green Bay and New England don’t have a run game either. Rarely do I hear that mentioned as a reason they won’t win. Matty Ice is getting to the point where he is going out and taking over games like Brady and Rodgers. We’ve got weapons like Roddy, Julio, and Tony G. Maybe it’s time to realize that is enough to get the job done.

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“The only thing that can DERAIL the Falcons’ track to a Super Bowl victory is Head Coach Mike Smith and his stubbornness in using Micheal Turner. ” – Wings

Maybe not the only thing but the only thing that so far can stop our offense is Smitty and Turner.

“Everyone keeps saying the Falcons don’t have a run game. They only tried to run it 20 times last night, and still only threw it 35. And still put up 31 points. Perhaps it’s time to admit that they don’t need that run game to burn clock, or slow down the rush, or get short yardage. They are getting all of that done, without a significant run game. Green Bay and New England don’t have a run game either. Rarely do I hear that mentioned as a reason they won’t win. Matty Ice is getting to the point where he is going out and taking over games like Brady and Rodgers. We’ve got weapons like Roddy, Julio, and Tony G. Maybe it’s time to realize that is enough to get the job done.” – DHunt

One of your best posts yet. First, not running Turner doesn’t mean we don’t run period but this is what the Turner homers are screaming and whining about, sad really. The next big myth going around the “clueless mofo trust me derp” scene is that you have to run effectively to have success in playaction or passing period. This ( http://footballoutsiders.com/stat-analysis/2012/2011-play-action-offense ) is a link to an article from last year about play action passing that shows some funny results that don’t jive with the “clueless mofo trust me derp” crowd’s whining in M. Ryans MVP thread on the troll board. The team with the best running attack was the worst at play action passing and while some continue to insist the Vagiants success last year was due to their running, this little quote says otherwise;

“However, the biggest difference was not in Jacksonville, but in New York. The Giants finished with the fourth-best passing offense in the NFL, but said offense actually went from excellent to poor with the threat of a handoff. Big Blue had a 41.3% DVOA last year on pass plays without play-action, but that dipped all the way down to -21.1% on the fake. The Giants didn’t run the ball much at all, and didn’t run much play-action when they did.” – R. MCown

Today is enjoy the win day so I don’t really want to get into a stat war but suffice to say I agree that Turner is irrelevant to our success. There is overwhelming evidence against the “simple” play action action arguments with all kind of bizzare results showing up. There are no absolutes in football, prolly in anything.

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Big Ray @ 6:23am…..LMAO!!

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@ DePlane

Co-sign that one ROFLMAO!

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“Stafford finished 37 of 56 for 443 yards with an interception and the Lions say he set an NFL record for the most yards passing in a game without throwing a TD pass.”

443 yards & ZERO Touchdowns. I think that record should be given to the defense, so I looked it up and I saw this page…

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_NFL_quarterbacks_who_have_passed_for_400_or_more_yards_in_a_game

If that page is correct then it is true last night the Falcons defense set an NFL record, and ironically it would be the NFL record for the most bending without breaking.

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Im glad to see Megatron break the record last night, now he is set for 2,000 mark next Sunday.

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

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Was a nice win, the biggest thing is not it is only possible to meet the 9ers or Green Bay until the NFC championship…..Unless 9ers lost to Seattle and the Cards, which is pretty unlikely.

Likely opponent is the winner between NFC East champ, or #5 WC (probably Seattle), unless the #6 WC is able to knock off a #3 seed (right now, 9ers).

Zoomie@ 8:41, I agree 100%…..Rarely have I seen an athlete “adding muscle” in the off season translate into success, (or Maybe I am just a overly skeptical after Jeff Frankoeur). But it was obvious Ryan raised his physical game just watching him move in the pocket during the pre season, and it has translated into improved accuracy too, hence improved completion percentage AND YPC, THAT is what is called taking it to the next level……As I said all season, we go as far a Ryan takes us.

As for Smitty, ho hum, team lost a little focus in the 2nd half as the game turned into a sleeper, so now Smitty is some absurd 50-0 taking a 7 pt lead into the 4th quarter, so i was not too worried.
I just looked back at the Giants game, and the drive we put together to seal the game in the 3rd quarter and I know what is in the playbook when it matters…..And, stay classy my friends.

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my boy told me that he heard on the radio that the falcons haven’t given up a passing TD in the past 5 of 6 games.

not too shabby.

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I see Yastinkas finally caught onto the whole Falcons running game thing – use Quizz…Turner is a thing of the past and a 2nd half RB. Not that he shouldn’t be allowed to run the ball in the first half. But that he shouldn’t be the featured back.

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Big Ray, Michael Turner should never get the ball in the end zone in any situation. He is 7-8 yards behind Matt Ryan, and everyone knows it is either a QB sneak or Turner up the middle. I guess it could be a pass but HC Smith doesn’t think like that. So now Turner has failed in many attempts when needing a yard for first down or touchdown, and an attempt not to loose more than a yard to prevent a safety.

How many times does HC Smith need to see Turner loose yardage to know it is not a good choice in certain situations. Of 13 running attempts, six resulted in one yard or less. Of 13 running attempts, nine resulted in four yards or less. In addition, he had three passes of two yards or less. It doesn’t make rational sense.

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I agree on benching Turner . But the Birds can not abandon the running game . That would be flat out stupid

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Birdman

Agreed. I don’t think anyone agrees with Pat in getting rid of the run, but they should use Snelling/Rodgers on more shotgun handoffs.

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Here I was hoping for Texans to make a case as the #1 overall seed in AFC I’m not a fan I’d just rather see them in the Super Bowl along with our falcons.

All Southern Showdown in NOLA lol. With no Aint’s

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Well it’s over Final Score for Pats 23-16, but tomorrow you won’t hear about how great the Falcons did you’ll hear about how bad NE stunk up the joint to a terrible team in Jacksonville, or other crap.

Hate ESPN

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I hate the Saints.

However, there is nothing like watching the ESPN nuthuggers have the Cowgirls victory/playoffs thing snatched from their smug little jaws.

Up next….their relentless defense and “up-talking” of the Giants may finally get laid to rest as well…..Ravens up 7-0…..

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Wings – Oh, I do agree…

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Flapo 17, Eli 7, so far so good.

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BT/Coop, gotta go with Roddy on this. We’re not scared of any team. (Nor should we be)

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The only thing I fear is me.

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I had doubts about the Giants turning it on this late, even after they blew out the Saints. Looks like I was right.

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L ooks like the Giants have run out of air in the late of the season this year .

So now the question is ‘and I am not a doubter ‘ is the Falcons that good after a couple of wins to the Giants and a Lions team that’s really bad ?. Or are the Falcons just a so so team after a loss to the Panthers ?

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Sometimes I wonder if Mike Smith has a tattoo of MT33 on his rear end. I don’t know butt something about this Turner thing stinks!

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You draft 4th next august!!!

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I agree JJ. I’ve been dodging bullets all afternoon. haha

LRD, it couldn’t be much closer! Showdown!

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I blinked and Seattle is up 7-0 on San Fran. Wonder who will be touted as the best team, i.e. favorite to win the NFC when all the talk turns to the playoffs. Who wants to take great odds that it won’t be the Falcons. I’m loving it!!! Disrespect us some more why don’t you? Hype up that #6 seed that backed into the playoffs as a more complete team than the Falcons. We lost two division road games, against an always dangerous Saints team, and a Panthers team that has underperformed mightily but still has strung together 3 straight wins and has talent all over the field. Lost both games by a total of 14 points combined. Every other team in the NFL has experience at least one blowout loss.

Falcons Top 5 passing offense and top 5 scoring defense, and they have the best winning percentage at home in the past half decade. Don’t be afraid to come to the Ga Dome. Just come on down to the dirty dirty and take that a$$ whooping like a man!

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When I say this is a great TEAM, this is exactly what I’m talking about.
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/43344/unsung-heroes-of-the-atlanta-falcons

Anyone who can’t see that this is a totally different Atlanta Falcons than even last year’s team, despite having a significant number of the same players, is a football mental midget.

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Damn. Seahags come out and kick the Whiners right in the crotch. I wish we could block like that…Lynch and the munchkin QB will get th credit but the Seahags O-line is dominating.

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Guy’s tune in to the Sunday night game and watch it. Give me your thoughts of these two teams after there game

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Due tell E43.

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DHunt
December 23rd, 2012
8:45 pm

I blinked and Seattle is up 7-0 on San Fran. Wonder who will be touted as the best team, i.e. favorite to win the NFC when all the talk turns to the playoffs. Who wants to take great odds that it won’t be the Falcons. I’m loving it!!! Disrespect us some more why don’t you? Hype up that #6 seed that backed into the playoffs as a more complete team than the Falcons. We lost two division road games, against an always dangerous Saints team, and a Panthers team that has underperformed mightily but still has strung together 3 straight wins and has talent all over the field. Lost both games by a total of 14 points combined. Every other team in the NFL has experience at least one blowout loss.

Falcons Top 5 passing offense and top 5 scoring defense, and they have the best winning percentage at home in the past half decade. Don’t be afraid to come to the Ga Dome. Just come on down to the dirty dirty and take that a$$ whooping like a man!

*********
you’re gonna take our loss to Seattle pretty hard, aren’t you.

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Green Bay will put 40 plus on us if we somehow end up against them…..

Why can’t we have our moment in the sun just once?

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Retch, I mean…

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Mt33 has that effect on people.

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phil, how does it feel to be an eternal pessimistic non-falcon fan?

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This game is ALL Seahawks. Wow.

Still have a half of football to play, but right now it’s a good thing the ‘Hawks don’t have home field advantage in the playoffs. For this squad, it would be a REAL tactical advantage….nastiest place for any visiting team.

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Who let Phil back in here?

The guy who says the Falcons will lose before every game starts on the troll blogs.

Dead clock is right twice a day.

Also, 49ers and Seattle’s secondary blows c!ck.

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I see our secondary having to play there best and our defense holding the run against this other Bird team . This team is red hot right now anybody that can’t see that then I just don’t understand.

Our O line if they could keep MR upright then we do probably have a chance .with the passing game.

These guy’s are playing with a lot of steam . Falcons gonna half to buck up ‘ and rise up . If they draw this team the first round they play

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“True. Seattle’s OL gets mucho push…wish ours was like that….but I think with a good offseason conditioning program for Mr. Konz and the introduction of Mr. Holmes…and we’ll see a stronger OL. That, and a nice healthy draft pick.” – BR

They slowed down a bit near halftime but still could move their man. That read option to go with the push is pretty nasty I must say. If we play them, giving up some yards ( leaving back side open, but with a LB spy waiting not too far off ) to lay the smack down on the Munchkin QB a few times should slow that a bit. The other way would be to jump out on top quick to force the muchkin to try and beat us with his arm. He’s not bad but he’s not that good either.
Next years O-line with a new feature back should be good times for sure. Oh wait, is that hypocrisy? No, I am quite sure of my convictions regarding our backfield .

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“Smitty better start gameplanning for them Seahawks…

Say whatever you want about a rookie QB, Russel Wilson ain’t playin’ like a rookie. Dude looks like a seasoned veteran out there.

That defense is hellacious.

They’re definitely in the mix with the big boys contending for a Superbowl.”

Wake me up when he actually beats a good team AWAY from home.

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Not to toot my own horn, but I said we should have drafted Wilson in my mock draft.

I remember saying that he’s the next Drew Brees.

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JJ – So bitter over Jake Locker? He wouldn’t have help the beat down you took loser. What was it that you wanted me to do? Divest my team and not play any more? I played every single game as best I could. I lost more Thani wanted, but never gave up. You should definitely be the commissioner next year and demand that all teams that don’t make the playoffs, drop,their best players to you and make no further FA transactions.

Dude, you’re a smart and funny guy, but you’re way off on this topic. Integrity of the league means nothing to you.

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I here ya Big Lou

I guess I am just looking at the class half empty instead of half full.

I just want our Birds to do well in the playoffs . My concern probably overwhelms me some times

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I get what you’re saying and everything Big Lou.

But, you gotta tip your cap to what they’ve done the past 3 weeks. Yeah, at first, they were just running it up against bad teams. But, this week, they proved that they’re a force to be reckoned with.

They’ve beaten the Pats on the road.

They technically won vs. GB, but we all know they shouldn’t have. Still, they held the Packers to 12 points.

The Seahawks are definitely in the mix of teams that have a legitimate shot at the Lombardi. To overlook them as a team that can’t win on the road or that fields a rookie QB would be foolish, because they’re making noise right now. Russell Wilson is ballin’. He may be a rookie, but he ain’t playin’ like one. They can run it with Marshawn Lynch. And they got a great defense, arguably the best in the league.

If there’s ever a time for Smitty to ‘play the percentages’, it’s now. Anything can happen when the playoffs come around. But, at this point, I see our first round draw being against Seattle.

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phil, go to dante’s inferno.

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Yeah phil. I’m going to be homicidal if the Seahawks beat the Falcons so you might wanna make yourself scarce. The Falcons can’t tackle, can’t block, can’t cover, can’t stop the run, can’t pass the ball, can’t throw the ball, and definitely can’t run the ball. I’m frankly amazed that they won more than one game over the past 5 years. Of course when the Falcons win, I’m sure you will come back with all kinds of sophisticated commentary about how the other team just rolled over and let it happen. Play that game by yourself, as I’m sure you are well used to doing at this point.

Why fear Green Bay? The same Green Bay that got trounced at home by the hapless 49er team tha just got dismantled in prime time? Why should the Falcons fear any team in the NFL? Brady and the Pats just barely got past Arizona today. We already showed we could take down the Broncos. Every team in the NFL is flawed, and all it takes is smacking most of them in the mouth to completely throw them off their game. Which is yet another area the Falcons have actually shown much moxie this year. Taken almost every smack any team has had to offer and still came back swinging.

Yeah, I fully expect to beat any team that shows up in the Thriller Dome, and that’s where they are going to have to show up because the Falcons earned the right to play at home.

Birdman, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Pack ranked #1, or to see the Redskins and 49′ers ranked ahead of the Falcons along with the other teams you listed. Again, I sincerely hope the entire sports media establishment doubles down and turns the hate up to full power over the next few weeks. I want a flock of Angry Birds waiting for whoever comes into the Dome.

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In case SF makes it to the dome this post-season, I hope the Atlanta fans took note of just how badly the crowd noise affected Kaepernick. I mean, that guy simply could not operate in that environment.

The Seahawks appear to be an example of what it looks like when you build your team from the LOS. I shiver to think of Atlanta facing a team that looked that dominant on the O and D lines. The third round draft pick who turned out to be seasoned, effective, dual-threat rookie QB capable of leading his team is just icing on the cake.

Considering the Falcon’s observed weaknesses this season, Seattle looks like a nightmare match-up against the Falcons.

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Zoomie, I have that nightmare in the back of my mind too.

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So, it looks like everyone is scared to pieces of Seattle and d-bag Pete Carroll. I’m not going to deny that they’re a good football team and will be tough to beat, but guys and gals, what did we expect would be like in the playoffs? This is not 2004 where we get to play a crappy 8-8 team that backs into the playoffs. I’m sick of being scared and nervous and we can talk about how great Wilson is all we want, but the fact is this, if you lose to a rookie QB at home in the playoffs for the 4th time in 5 years, than you’re @ss doesn’t deserve to be mentioned with the Lombardi trophy.

It’s good to be wary of your opponent, especially ones that’s playing as good as they are right now, but d@mmit, it’s time to get it done and if we don’t, should Smitty keep getting another shot with this uber-talented team, failing in the playoffs 0-4, when it’s rarely EVER been done in the NFL in history, as my research a few weeks ago proved?

Yes, he is playing good, but Wilson is not Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Eli Manning, or Aaron Rodgers (3 of them, BTW, we made look like straight up chumps). I’m not trying to pee on our fears about Seattle, but here’s how it boils down to me:

If you lose to any rookie QB at home in the playoffs after going 13-3 or 14-2, than you don’t deserve it………..period!

Seahawks, Packers are pretty good……………. You know what, we’re pretty darn good too!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2012/12/nfl_power_rankings_week_16.html

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Let me ask ya’ll a question………..

why are the Niners still the #2 seed after they are 10-4-1 and the Packers are 11-4? I know they have the same number of losses, but the Packers have one more win than they do?

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D3 is right. The Falcons sure as hell aren’t scared of these teams, so why should we be?

That said, Wilson looked like a seasoned vet out there yesterday. I’d go ahead and split Rookie of the Year between him, RG3, and Luck.

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Way to stand strong D3, there is entriely too much hand wringing around here. Yes, we have to play a very good football team in the playoffs. Shocker. This is what it is all about, week 2 of the playoffs, down to 8 teams, a chance to play on the grand stage, the possibility of a major shrivel is always there, but man, this is what it is all about. I don’t give a @@@@ about last year, nor do I give a @@@@ what anyone says if we lose, I don’t even know why anyone wants to think about it.

If you watched interviews yesterday, the consistent theme to a player was “I want a chance”, or “We got a chance”. I am just ready for them to sing the national Anthem in Atlanta, everything after that is gravy.

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D3

49ers beat the Packers head to head, regaurdless with the tie game.

Wabe

No. They barely beat the Pats AT home. It seems ATL react to teams like ESPN. 49ers gave Seattle that game due to the horrible mistakes. I’ll give judgement in the playoffs.

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Right now the Pack is the #2 seed, head to head is only in the case of identical records. If San Fran is listed as a #2 seed, it is a mistake. Again, 9ers play the #6 seed, and Colin K is a question mark, a 49ers win is not guaranteed.

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My mistake. I was looking at the standing from yesterday. Yeah, the Pack have the number 2 seed, which means if we face them, it would be in the NFC championship.

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Interesting that Peter King moved us to #2 on his list, we have been hanging around 5. He has Denver ahead of us, which is sort of strange since we beat them, and they have more losses. Oh well, don’t even know why I bother to look.

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***FFL***

CONGRATULATIONS
2012 League Champion!
Howlin Owls – LRD
Owner(s): Jeff Gillespie
Regular Season Record: 9-4

Sarah Brainerd Bird Cage Fantasy Final League Standings:

Champion: LRD
2. JWW
3. Lil’Dave
4. JJ – biggest loser
5. WR
6. SW
7. Unca’ Bob
8. Nookah
9. Coop
10. D3
11.BT
12. Stirg (fishngrits))

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Falcons need to rest players point blank period.

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

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Falcons will go to superbowl this year and win.

Im a firm believer that the Falcons will be focus during there time of, if you risk any injury when there is and opportunity of getting to superbowl then many pointing the fingers will go around including Arthur Blanks and specially the Bird Cage, who support this team to fullest and will not settle for anyting less than a superbowl ring.

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

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I wouldn’t rest the starters for the entire game against the Bucs. Have them play at least a half, or maybe three quarters. We know what two weeks of rest can do for the team (see @Philly), but they need to be both healthy AND sharp for the playoffs. Putting them in the game on Sunday will ensure that the post-Carolina drive and focus stays in place for as long as possible.

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Agree Big Lou and Snack. We are playing strong now and we need to keep up the momentum.

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I’d like to hear the most fired-up and focused leaders on the Falcons’ squad answer this question– “How much of the TB game do you want to play?” I’m sure Smith has his plan, but I wonder how the team leaders factor in.

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I no this not Basketball but i remember when Bulls had won the game playoffs and was up by 20points with only 2mins remaining, guest what happen when Rose drove towards the basket playing hard and suffered and torn ACL, next round bulls loose the next 4games out of 5 and rest is history.

SO BE CAREFULL WHAT YOU ASK FOR.

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

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Birdman, will do!

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man if you don’t play the players this weekend at all, you’re talking about them being without real football action for 3 weeks…

and then you expect them to just be on point come playoff time?

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birdman

Prayers for your family!!!

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Birdman

December 24th, 2012
2:34 pm

Sorry for your family loss. You have been, and always will be in our thoughts and prayers.

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Birdman,
Prayers for you and yours during this difficult time. Stay strong.

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Birdman – Sending a prayer from Texas.

JJ – I’d love to have a beer with ya’. We’re getting together on the 27th around lunchtime… 12:00 at the TacoMac in Decatur.

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I say rest the starters. They get plenty of reps in practice without the risk of injury. I don’t believe they will gain anything from playing the dirty, lowdown Bucs. If anything, this is the game that our backups can prove their worth/worthlessness.

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Merry Christmas Cagers, I hope everything is going well for all of you..

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a wee bit bummed – appears highly improbable that Tony G gets a 1000 yards receiving.

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Merry Christmas, Cage! I think we all agree on what we want for Christmas this year!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS CAGE FAM!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES!!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS CAGE

I Pray that all of you and your families have a blessed day. On the day that the greatest man on earth was born. Praise The King !!!!!

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Merry Christmas Cage Family!!!!

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It just burns me up when I hear someone say that RB JRogers isn’t capable of being a featured RB. No, he isn’t the type of RB that can carry the kind of run heavy power rushing OFF Smitty wants desperately to run. But he’s the ideal RB for Koetter’s pass heavy OFF.

Loyality is a fine trait, but Smitty needs to get past the loyality issue and realize RBs JRogers and JSnelling are much more effective and productive runners than MTurner. He must also realize that with VanGorder gone, we don’t need a dominant rushing OFF that’s designed to keep Nolan’s ball hawking DEF off the field.

Smitty needs to back the hell off and let our OFF and DEF reflect MNolan’s and Koetter’s personalities and philosophies. With the speed, quickness, atheticism, and overall talent we have on both OFF and DEF, there shouldn’t be a single hint of CONSERVATISM in the way the Falcons play.

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Amen brother Ken, preach it!!!

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Merry Christmas Cage Family. Now on to the march thru the playoffs.

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Birdman — So sorry for your loss. May peace be with you and your family.
Merry Christmas everybody. And a Happy Playoff New Year!

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Holy day blessings and cheer to all you Cage family. Heart felt thanks for all you bring.

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Merry Christmas, Cagers.

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Need Football..!!

Come-on-Man !!!!!!

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Agree Birdman, I’m on vacation, my wife is working, the Cage is slow and there is no football unless you consider the really bad bowl game comimg on later as football!!!

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JB Falcon

Make babies?

Matt Ryan and Julio made the Pro Bowl.

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Pat Yasinskas: “The other guy that got robbed was Atlanta wide receiver Roddy White. Teammate Julio Jones did make the roster for the first time in his career. Jones is a very good receiver, but White still is Atlanta’s go-to guy. You could even make a case that the Falcons should have had way more than three guys in the Pro Bowl. They have the NFC’s best record. Guys like linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, John Abraham and safety Thomas DeCoud come to mind as guys that have had Pro Bowl seasons.”

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White, Spoon, Ham and Coud did not make the Pro Bowl, I don’t really get that one!

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Ok, I can deal with Ham and Coud not getting in but White and Spoon deserve to be there!

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I would love to see the coaching staff start Holmes in the upcoming gm, or at least give him some meaningful snaps. It would also be a good time to start JRogers as well.

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Later Cagers, 21 is hitting the sack!

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“We are not going to change the way we approach this game,” safety Thomas DeCoud said. “We are going to attack it like it’s week three. We’re all expecting to play and all expecting to play well.”

No resting here. They’ve positioned themselves with the 1st seed. Now they want to position themselves with playing at their absolute best level. I think it’s a good call– we’ll see.

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Don’t forget about all of the negative and no gains that are seen from Michael Turner. Either by pass or run, those runs have to be salvaged.

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I don’t know this for a fact but I’ll bet Turner has dropped 40% of the balls thrown his way.

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Rodgers has 17 carries for 39 yards (2.3 average) in the past two games, and he has made only two catches since he had a season-high six receptions in Week 14. So I have to back off my simple view that MT singlehandedly stalls our offense. I must look at the running game as a whole, along with the fakes, the screen game, and what all that opens up deep. I’m getting more comfortable recently with the running game being not all that great. It just has to be good enough to belong in a mix of play calling that keeps the other guys making costly guesses. We’ve seen some good examples in the past couple of weeks– and that IS great!

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As far as other players, it is sorta flavor of the day. It is like Holmes, I have no way of knowing if he is ready to play LT in the NFL. He looks the part, and played well against the scrubbs in the post season, I don’t really question his physical skills, but one missed assignment from the blind side can end our season, it just is not worth the risk, especially since we are getting good play out of Baker. Again, can we used him in running plays? I just can’t see where it would hurt.

Last I looked, there was another Tackle spot in the starting lineup that has seen subpar play for the last two years.

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Hypocrisy comes in because a bad game by Rodger’s is not the same as a bad game by Turner. They can both stay home sick but excuses will be how Rodgers xyz. Same thing might be happening with Roddy vs Julio Jones. Once its final Roddy doesn’t make the pro bowl, Julio Jones’ bandwagon will catch fire regardless of what Roddy does. Yet, Julio is yet to give us a full season.

1) This would tell you that blocking is a problem, which is what has been said around here a lot.

2) I’d like to see Rodgers get the number of snaps and touches that Turner usually does before even trying to make this argument. Otherwise, it’s just straw…

3) WTH is the argument with Julio/Roddy? I don’t get it.

Last I looked, everybody was quite pleased with Roddy’s performance this season. Hell, looks to me like he got snubbed.

In fact, more than one team’s fans can make a case AGAINST Victor Cruz making the Pro Bowl. Roddy has more yards and more catches. Dallas’ Dez Bryant has him beat in EVERY SINGLE CATEGORY except 1st downs, where they are tied.

The one trend I see in Pro Bowl players (again, this is where Dez Bryant should get a nod) is that all of the WRs named to the Pro Bowl for the NFC have 9 or more TDs, and significant YAC stats.

So on the one hand, I say Roddy deserves to be there.

On the other hand, while Julio “hasn’t given us a full season yet”, he’s given us 10 TDs and 418 YAC as opposed to our #1 WR who gave us 11 more catches, 7 TDs, and 277 YAC. Take that how you want, those are just facts.

There is no Julio vs. White. But if there simply must be an argument, then you’ll need to find a better way to go about it.

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Roddy was snubbed, robbed etc… Ryan coudn’t be in the pro bowl without Gonzo, Jones and Roddy. Roddy is the main go to guy.. Heck every defense knows that on 3rd down, where is Ryan likely to go (unless in the red zone)… Roddy.
I can only imagine what his twitter feed is like today…………

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LOL Big Ray, too funny!

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Wabe ,

Totally get your point about the Seahawks and Russell Wilson. Here’s my thing on that matchup. It’s not the mobile QB that bothers me as much in this. It’s other stuff. And I’m not arguing with you, just adding to your comments.

1) Cam is a different situation. He’s not just fast, he’s big and strong. Hard to bring down in the pocket, not easy on the run either. RG III and Wilson are both smaller guys. Not as tough, as Sean Weatherspoon revealed in our victory against them. It’s just one facet, but it can make a difference.

2) What bothers me more is that Seattle has a mean OL. Our defensive front may not fare well against them at all. And if they don’t, we are in trouble because the Seahawks will not be or feel forced to beat us through the air, where we can take advantage.

3) Marshawn Lynch. He’s better than either of the RBs that Cam has behind him. He’s basically…right now…second only to Adrian Peterson. The guy has some speed, is VERY physical, and is running behind that mean, nasty OL.

We have to make them throw….a lot. If they run on us, they’ll grind us into the ground. And man, can they run – 2nd best rushing attack in the NFL.

Note: Russell Wilson has been sacked only one more time than Matt Ryan, and has thrown the ball about 200 times fewer.

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“I must look at the running game as a whole, along with the fakes, the screen game, and what all that opens up deep. I’m getting more comfortable recently with the running game being not all that great. It just has to be good enough to belong in a mix of play calling that keeps the other guys making costly guesses. We’ve seen some good examples in the past couple of weeks– and that IS great!” – Arno

Sounds like you are starting to see “it”. Running games come in many shapes and forms, even if many think power-running is the only way. If understanding that other RB’s than Turner offer different thing makes me a hypocrite than I guess I am. Sometimes “good enough to belong in a mix of play calling that keeps the other guys making costly guesses” is overall way more effective and lucrative to the TEAM, even if not to one guys stat sheet. Good way to look at it and nice descriptive statement, you damn hypocrite you!!

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Slant Pattern

I would love to see Matt Ryan get MVP. But lets face it unless he wins a Super Bowl this year he has 3 are 4 others that will get it before him . And will probably have at lest 1 ahead of him if he does. Not that I agree with that it’s just the way it will be.
.

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I showed my support SP, it looks as though many have, thanks for the link!

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I,m in with The Ice Man .THANKS SP

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@ LRD 3:00

Curious, Roddy snubbed. Players and coaches tired of his mouth? Seems unlikely– to me his comments are more colorful than irritating. I suspect the snub is about Roddy’s fine art of playing one micron short of offensive pass interference. Players and coaches vent their frustration by giving Julio the nod, because Julio isn’t up to what they think is Roddy’s level of criminal behavior. It’s for the best, though. Roddy will be fired up over this.

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Arno ,

I hear you on that. I do think that Roddy’s “rough” reputation as a WR is part of what got him snubbed.

So be it. I like a guy who gives DBs hell. Get us a SB. Forget the individual accolades.

Roddy has been silent on twitter and deadly on the field. Just the way we like it.

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I voted, Ryan is still in the lead in the poll, little over 2500 votes in head of Manning. Not sure on how the salary cap is looking but we should have some $ freed up after the year is over. Might be able to get that big name OL or DE if need be. Gonzo will probably be gone and I can’t see them resigning Grimes, at least not at 10mil+. Ryan’s deal will have to be done which will cost us and we aren’t promised anything picking 32nd in the draft. Either way I think we will have some good options to take next year to better our team. Go Falcons.

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Weeks 1-4 Ryan was the MVP front runner, then he had a rough stretch and threw some picks and fell out of the conversation, but his play over the past few weeks has been MVP quality and got him back in the conversation. He won’t win though, it will go to Rogers, the argument will be that Ryan had 3 pro bowl receivers, Rogers did it without any pro bowler receivers, or and O line for that matter…..Plus, spoils go to the ring. I am not saying I agree, I am just predicting what I think will happen, and why.

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I don’t really give a darn about what Gruden says. When you don’t run the ball well and we don’t, you throw the ball short. It seems to be working!

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“I’d like to see Rodgers get the number of snaps and touches that Turner usually does before even trying to make this argument. Otherwise, it’s just straw…”

Im pretty sure our tailbacks don’t get enough touches on the ground. They rank 26th. If you flip Rodgers and Turner around, you still have too few carries unless you give Rodgers a significant increase. Increasing the rushing attempts is only one step to an equation the staff probably sees different. My expectations on Rodgers are based on what he has done. I’m not willing to say that Rodgers will be the sole beneficiary of more carries.

“WTH is the argument with Julio/Roddy? I don’t get it.”

They should both be pro bowlers. They both have 15 ypc in totally different situations. If Cruz is out, there is no excuse for roddy to not be in there. 4th and 5, that ball is going to roddy. We know Matt can do without Julio. Well never know if Matt can do without Roddy because he will get old before he ever gets injured. Injured because hes old, whatever floats your boat.

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“SP, Matt Ryan has this team on his shoulders, we will go as far as he carries us. As for MVP, hell yes he deserves it, will he get it? No. We can all see what he can do and does do but the NFL is in love with Brady and the Manning’s.” – falcon21

The way the media and other teams fans have disrespected our team, basically shat on us all year, it gets tiring to see our own fanbase doing the same. Whether M. Ryan truly deserves it at this point is moot to me, it is a way to send a “FU” to the people that shat at us. I usually like the Falcaholic site but I read on the SB Nation board they voted Brady for MVP. I don’t how or who decides that but I saw at least one of their main writers arguing for fricken A. Rodgers. How and why should anyone respect us when our own “talking heads” don’t? Sad to have to even ask that.

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Total BS, SP, Matt Ryan has totally earned the MVP, we know it as well as many others. We are not New York, Green Bay or New England. We are a southern team and will not get any respect. If we kick everyones ass from here on out, they will respect us!

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Nice link SP, I’m not gonna start guessing just yet.

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Worst .. Meaning hardest

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I’m not willing to say that Rodgers will be the sole beneficiary of more carries.

Actually, I agree. But this is why I said “snaps and touches.”

Rodgers brings another dimension to the table, one neither Turner or even Snelling brings.

Not only does Rodgers make people miss in space, but he is so natural when catching the ball. Unless the play is busted from the start, the guy WILL get yardage.

The trick to having him in the game is you can do so many things. The defense KNOWS what is going to happen when Turner is in the game. He’s either picking up a pass-blocking help assignment or he is running between the tackles. Draw plays rarely work unless they are immediate (no delay) because he needs to get a running start and have a clear/obvious hole. He doesn’t run well out of the shotgun at all. Catching a pass – dude better be wide open and have clear space to get a few yards’ running start.

Rodgers runs well on draws, catches well out of the backfield or even as a slot receiver. His stop and start speed is very good. While he doesn’t run as powerfully as Turner does (when in the 2nd level, that is), but he runs with a good bit of power for someone his size and never gives up on the play.

Feature back? Maybe not, but unless the defense sniffs out the formation, they don’t know what Rodgers will be doing. That’s the element he brings. It’s never as simple as “give him 18-20 carries and he’ll give you 80+ yards.” That is no longer the offense we are running. Have to think beyond the pure ground game, and I think that’s where the struggle has been with the CS.

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Big Ray is correct. That’s the issue with fatty Turner.

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…and when we do take OLinemen in the draft, probably wouldn’t be a bad idea to start looking at the strenght and conditioning (how many bench press reps, ect..) of the linemen we take. The last couple of linemen we’ve drafted, maybe with the exception of Holmes, but Hawley, Johnson, Konz…and some UFA (Valdez) all have a weak, flaccid build.

Strenght, probably outweighs size as the most important attribute in drafting an offensive lineman. IMHO.

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Let’s see. MR2 was ten for ten off play-action passes last week with three TDs. Could it be the run game is more about perception than it is yards? All our backs are equally bad running the football.

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@ Big Ray’s December 27th, 2012: 3:24 pm

This is a man who gets it. It’s not about fear, it’s about recognizing how a particular team’s strengths matches up against another’s weaknesses.

You only forgot to mention the Sea Chicks’ mean, fast, aggressive D-line matched up against the Falcons’ often underperforming O-line.

Sell out to stop the run. Play aggressive O, get a 2 TD+ lead, make the Sea Gulls play from behind and force a passing game. I think their weakness is the two-pronged running attack with Lynch and Russell. Shut that down and the Sea Gulls are quite beatable.

Oh yeah, and make sure Turner gets at least 25 carries.

(That was a joke, people; but will probably happen anyway . . .)

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Ummmmm the game was over a week ago and still no column………..

I wish my job worked like that

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Pietas81 – This the Dog House Brother don’t be calling D3 out like that, JUST DAM

If not like it leave.

BIG DOG IN THE HOUSE

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“Strenght, probably outweighs size as the most important attribute in drafting an offensive lineman. IMHO.” – Somebody NTT Truth

First off, nice to see Cage active again. I can’t really agree or disagree with this statement yet. Last year was the first year I put alot of time into looking at and learning O-line drafting. My thoughts so far is this is easily the hardest position to decide about, there are so many variables involved. Guys that are the perfect blend of strength and balance but still quick and agile go in the top 10-20 easy, after that you get the guys that are mixes of different strengths and weaknesses. I looked up the number 61 Alabama guy ( http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=90423&draftyear=2014&genpos=OG ), Anthony Steen was his name. In these videos for C. Warmack and B. Jones ( http://draftbreakdown.com/players/chance-warmack ) you can also see him in action. I would love to hear someone else’s opinion on him, he looks to get nice push in the run game, fairly mobile on pulls, and soaks up bull rushes well. He keeps his head on a swivel and seems very aware of the game around him. He is not “great” but looks at least solid to above average in all important aspects. He looks to have more “power” than many rated above him. He isn’t on anybody’s radar yet and might go later rounds, defintely intriguing to me.

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I don’t think an RB is going to be the first pick . But I do think this is the last year for Turner

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Big dog -

D3 stated “much more coming very soon” yet it’s been over a week. I’d say it was more of an observation than an attempt to call someone out. If DLed did the same thing people would be all over him.

Regarding your comment about leaving, there’s no need to be aggressive. It’s obvious from your name that you have self esteem issues, I’d suggest that you focus on yourself and leave others be. With that being said, Go Falcons, Superbowl bound!!

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81, D3 does one hell of a job and don’t get paid. DLed gets paid, take your BS to his blog!

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falcon21, word!

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21 tops 81, lol.

Lot’s of talk about MT and can’t say I disagree. Will he stay or will he go? Who knows! The thing is, our team has evolved and we do not depend on him like we used to. AP wouldn’t do nearly as well behind our OL so it figures we’ll concentrate more on that than a RB. Like BM said, we can pick up a RB later.

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I also agree about not taking a RB in the 1st Round, unless EVERY team passes on the top RB. Then there would be a temptation for sure, and who in this town would fault them? Not me, as (at times) I have witnessed what a ZERO rushing attack looks like. Picking an RB with our #1 probably won’t happen though, as Giovani Bernard should be gobbled up by someone without a top 10 pick, like the Chargers, or someone that desperately needs one and has a top 10 pick, like Detroit. The other RBs coming out are intriguing and most likely to be picked shortly after the 1st Round…

Joe Randle – OSU……………1351 yds / 14 TDs*
Eddie Lacy – Bama……………1182 yds / 16 TDs*
Stepfan Taylor – Stanford…….1442 yds / 12 TDs*
Mike Gillislee – FLA………….1104 yds / 10 TDs*
Jonathan Franklin – UCLA……1734 yds / 13 TDs*
Monte Ball – Wisc……………..1730 yds / 21 TDs*
Le’Veon Bell – MSU…………..1648 yds / 11 TDs*

* Denotes 2012 stats

I really like the 3-Down Stanford RB (we like smart guys!). Down the list, although a fine player, I would steer clear of Ball because of his mileage. I think he stayed a year too long in college. Additionally, I know there are other freaks of nature like Kenjon Barner who could be had in later rounds, but we need someone who can catch and pass protect right out of the gate.

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Pietas81,

D3 has some personal matters to be addressed at present. That’s way more important than this blog.

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It appears the math from the members is about as good as the grammar.

As in “Falcon 21″…..reading and interpretation being fundamental…..

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Regarding your comment about leaving, there’s no need to be aggressive. It’s obvious from your name that you have self esteem issues, I’d suggest that you focus on yourself and leave others be.

You get all that from a blog handle? Presumption is worse than assumption in some cases. Hope you aren’t a psychologist or pyschiatrist….or a stock broker….

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In other words Pietas81: STFU!!!!

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Zoomie ,

I can’t believe I forgot to mention the Seattle D-Line. They’ve been a nightmare for teams like the 49ers and Packers, two teams with some very capable offenses.

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Wings –

How eloquent….LOL

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If Tony G really does retire (hope not) and we don’t want to spend a high round draft pick on a replacement TE next spring, let’s sign Dallas Clark. He only signed a 1 year deal with Tampa and will be available. I’ll bet he can’t wait to get out of there after their late season meltdown and with Petrino II coaching. He’d be a nice fit here and a serviceable stop gap for a couple years while we draft for more pressing immediate needs.

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In defense of P81, I don’t recall the AJC making any notes at the beginning of The Cage, such as… “A fan’s blog”… would be nice if they would give D3 some acknowledgement besides a byline… a very, very brief bio would be appropriate on a blog like this… Can’t blame new people like P81 who somehow manage to find the Cage despite the AJC hiding it in the bowels of the Falcons section of the Sports page…

So, about that running back we need to draft… I agree with the Stanford kid… Stepfan… Just don’t like how he spells his name, but love his running style…

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I don’t know why but I have a hunch the Seahawks are going to get busted for cheating in some way down the road. I think they somehow artificially magnify or simply add to their home crowd noise, similar to what was being done at Peyton’s place years ago. I guarantee you Seattle folks aren’t any louder than Southerners, or northerners for that matter, and I cannot figure out why some of the curious haven’t tried to figure it out. After all, how could an open air stadium possibly be louder than a completely enclosed Dome? Some may say it is the “special design”. I say the extra crowd noise is being piped in from somewhere harder to find than the air vents at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Back to the game…

This Sunday my ideal scenario is for us to win the game using our starters for exactly one half and one series. Just enough to start off the 3rd Quarter. Then, IDEALLY, I would like to see D Davis get a few snaps, although most likely the second half will be used for giving Luke some live reps. For sure we will see our future Left Tackle Mr. Holmes and hopefully Big Mr. Manley will get in there.

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Damn, missed the fireworks…

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BM, I feel your anxiety but the only thing we can do is wait, believe and hope. I am copying your post but changing one word.

“This is your year . Some of these guys are getting old and have been on the team for a while now . They should know how to play Football when it counts and they WILL be up for the task at hand.”

They will also make thousands of fans think they are in dreamworld and they will be estactic! The fans will act like crazy people for the next ten years! They will instill a winning attitude into the team and the entire fan base! They will spread this madness all over the United States and foreign countries because that is how large the Falcon fanbase is.

My optimism is higher for this team, this year, than it has ever been. I flat refuse to believe anything other than we will bring home the prize, THIS YEAR.

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A nice compliment to the Falcon Way and some interesting NFL stuff…

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000118203/article/as-black-monday-nears-teams-must-make-careful-choices

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My point is I am tired of herring this crap about our Birds only beating 4 teams with wining records this season . That seems to be the only thing they have to go on . That and the fact they ALMOST lost to teams that are not good this year and lost to the Panthers .

Like I said its up to our men to prove them wrong and we as fans know they can . SO

RISE UP FALCONS !!!!!!!

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Bluto

You are not fooling anyone here

You Could only wish that you would be the Man we have as our Leader and friend here . Nothing else need be said .

God bless …..And Thanks D3

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Birdman – “My point is I am tired of herring this crap about our Birds only beating 4 teams with wining records this season.”

And, they have the audacity to rank one of those teams ahead of the Falcons in the various Power Rankings. I started to say balls instead of audacity but we all know they don’t have balls.

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D3

I am sorry for your loss Brother. You and your Family are in all our Prayers here in the Cage

Nobody here that knows you is ever in a hurry for a new post. Please take all the time you need and be with the Number one thing in your life Your Family

God Bless You Dawson

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D3– Deepest sympathy for your loss. Not knowing the details of what you were going through, we all knew that if you could not put up a new post, there were very good reasons for it. We appreciate your work and your passion, and we look forward to the next contribution– but we are also happy to get by on our own when you have more important things to do.

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D3 ,

I’m so very sorry to hear about your grandmother. I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers.

I completely understand. I’ve had in-laws over for the holidays.

On top of that, my grandmother had something akin to a stroke and passed out. Twice on the way to the hospital, she regained consciousness and passed out twice more.

She has swelling of some arteries in the brain. Something tells me I’ll be joining you in mourning very soon.

Be strong, my brother. Be strong.

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Prayers, D3.

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D3, may God be with you and yours during this time of sorrow. Funny how the only two complaining are not regular readers, just insensitive assholes.

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Exactly, this blog is a home for us Falcons Fans. It is provided at free of charge by a man who does not get paid. I repeat, he does not get paid! His posts are informative and objective in that they pose questions that we as fans answer to ourselves and each other. Never have I met a writer to admit their shortcomings as quickly as D3. He does not make excuses and provides a service that many of us would go crazy without all of this while being a teacher to our children here in Clayton Co. which is one of the most frustrating places in this state to teach. To take time away from family especially in such a state of loss to put up a post regardless of length is a testiment to his absolute LOVE for this team and it’s fans. Words don’t express our gratitude for your years of service D3, Thank you and God Bless.

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D3, thinking about your family and you my friend, don’t worry about this blog, we will keep it going.

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“I’ll be back to normal in a few days and get us a new, regular post as well. Just needed a little time to pause, reflect, and take a break. Thanks again for all your prayers and wishes.” – D3

Condolences on your loss and sending prayers your family’s way. Take what you need, we will be ok in the meantime.

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JB…LOL

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Here’s an out of town’s prospective. Notice the very insightful comment at the bottom…

http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/12/29/3160052/falcons-taking-business-as-usual.html

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Nice read JWW, good stuff!

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Spoon credits McClure for coming up with “there’s no mentum like mo’ mentum.” Great rallying cry. I looked around and saw that “no-mentum” was used to describe the Romney campaign, but maybe Todd gave it that hilarious new twist. So many leaders on this team popping up with great attitude– DeCoud, Spoon, Asante, Roddy, Gonzo, Abe, on and on. This game gets the mo’ mentum punch. Snag that 4-2 record in our division. Keep up the traction from the Giants game into the playoffs > > and beyond.

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D3, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.

We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the house that was built many years ago. Ezra 5:11

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Unca’ Bob, the mo will show. We will be up by 17 when the starters are taken out.

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falcon21,

I hope you’re right about the score. My Mo’ is motivation, not momentum, that tends to ebb and flow throuhgout any given game. My Mo’ is hustle and hit football full blown. Both sides of the ball. That’s what I look for on any given game day.

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Sorry. It flipped so fast I missed this.

falcon21,

I hope you’re right about the score. My Mo’ is motivation, not momentum, that tends to ebb and flow throuhgout any given game. My Mo’ is hustle and hit football full blown. Both sides of the ball. That’s what I look for on any given game day

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Got’cha UB, I just think they will take care of business. JB, amazing, thinking alike is starting to get scary, it’s not a bad thing though!

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keys to tomorrows game., getting there early with my 6yr old to enjoy the Landing. Relaxing in the dome knowing we have bye, kicking back and just enjoying the feeling of a great regular season and more importantly, we can afford no injuries.

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Cage

I’m telling Ya . Compared to some Fans . We are Blessed with the team we have.

GO FALCONS !!!!!!! and THANKS

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I here ya 21

But we can’t be caught in tomorrow and let the present pass us by. Because you never know what tomorrow will bring.

Have a Blessed evening Cage.!!!!

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Cage Ya’ll all have a great Blessed night.

D3……. My prayers go out for you and yours Man

Hang in there Brother .We love ya Man ..

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I realize 5 years does not equate to an era, but I think the Falcons are now the model franchise. I just hope we game plan our opposition wisely in the upcoming post season. and, I hope we don’t play somebody we’ve already played previously this year. they seem to learn more about us than we do about them. although, our defense does appear to be very flexible. savvy flexible.

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Sorry for expiration lapse Cagers. Here’s new thread and we’ll be back to normal very soon. Perhaps tonight or definitely tomorrow. Won’t be able to catch the game today, but make sure to pull them on for me.

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

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-fans/2012/12/30/atlanta-falcons-birds-take-on-bucs-as-playoffs-await/

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