We’re live from the Falcons (and Dimitroff has no regrets)
Smith and Dimitroff expected a painful learning curve this season.
I’ll be on my way to the Georgia Dome soon to watch the Falcons’ final exhibition game against Baltimore, hoping to get answers to two questions: 1) Will the defense be any better after getting humiliated by San Diego five days ago; and, yes, 2) Who will be the third-string quarterback? (I’m guessing this second question is asked more often in Atlanta than in any other NFL city, which is to say it’s being asked more than once).
First, let’s address the second question: D.J. Shockley needs to be great tonight or he’s gone. This isn’t based on anything that has been said to me, but rather just observation and logic. This is his fourth season (including an injury year) and the Falcons are past the point of thinking, “Great kid. Love his talent. He’s going to be solid.” That third sentence has faded. He didn’t win the backup job — Chris Redman is No. 2 by default — and he hasn’t separated himself from the undrafted John Parker Wilson. The roster job will be won tonight. Shockley can’t expect he’ll get the nod if it’s a dead heat.
Now on to the more important issue (outside of Athens, anyway): the defense. Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff made a nice little trade the other day, sending a seventh-round draft pick to St. Louis for cornerback Tye Hill. Hill was a bust of a first-round pick (15th overall) by the Rams. If he wasn’t a bust, St. Louis wouldn’t have been looking to get rid of him so cheap. That said, Hill should help a defense that obviously needs helps, particularly in the secondary.
But let’s not overstate the impact or meaning of this deal. The trade should not be taken as some concession that Dimitroff and Mike Smith are regretting their decisions to not keep five of their defensive regulars from last season (Lawyer Milloy, Keith Brooking, Grady Jackson, Domonique Foxworth, Michael Boley). I certainly wrote at the time that I believed the team was “playing a dangerous game,” and I still think that. (Milloy I would’ve kept.) But the collective mindset of the Falcons has been to get younger and faster on defense, even if it meant taking some lumps.
That’s exactly what has happened: More speed, more lumps.
Still, because I know the subject has been on everybody’s mind, I chatted with Dimitroff late Wednesday night and had to ask him if he second-guessed any of his decisions.
Answer: “Categorically, no. We’re not second-guessing one move we made defensively this off-season. I believe all the moves were done in the best interest of the team. Our vision of the team was to get younger and faster, and in our mind we have.”
But was the defense’s weak showing in the San Diego game last Saturday worrisome? Obviously, yes. “I really hesitate to judge our defense off of pre-season games,” Dimitroff said. “There’s definitely something to be said about playing a full game together and getting in sync. But obviously the last game was cause for concern, and that’s why both Mike Smith and I mentioned it was going to be a long two weeks [before the regular season opener], working on schemes, refining our skills.”
I’ll have more from Dimitroff later in the column off tonight’s game.
♦ AND FINALLY: It’s a three-team race in the NFC South, because the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have officially imploded.
Jeff Jagodzinski, a former Falcons’ offensive line coach who went on to become the head coach at Boston College and worked with a kid named Matt Ryan, was fired earlier today as the Bucs’ offensive coordinator by first-year coach Raheem Morris. This comes only a few days after another first-year coach, Kansas City’s Todd Haley, dumped offensive coordinator Chan Gailey after three exhibitions. There must be something in the water. If you want to read more about how new NFL coaches have officially gone psycho, you can click right here.
Jags has been fired from two jobs in eight months without coaching a game. That has to be some kind of record. He was fired in January by B.C. athletic director Gene DeFilippo for interviewing with the New York Jets.
♦ TONIGHT’S PLAN: I’ll be blogging live before and during the game. I’ll try to answer any and all questions, including the ever-present, “How’s Shock looking?” So feel free to start posting now and I’ll get back to you.
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174 comments Add your comment
Steve Carter
September 3rd, 2009
2:48 pm
How’s Shock looking? sorry couldn’t resist…any idea on how long he and Wilson will play? and golly I am first (pats self on back)
ATL FAN
September 3rd, 2009
2:55 pm
second
Nite Owl
September 3rd, 2009
2:59 pm
Mark, do you think TD was backtracking a bit by qualifying his “long two weeks” comment?
I can see he didn’t necessarily mean getting new blood in here, but he seemed to go out of his way to clear that up.
And as far as TD’s moves, I can’t fault the guy on a single one. I think we’re set for years with good young talent, and he’ll find more.
We just need a couple guys to grow up fast. I think we’ll be pretty good on D by the time Miami comes to town.
ff
September 3rd, 2009
3:00 pm
does Shock have any eligibilty for the practice squad?
Nite Owl
September 3rd, 2009
3:00 pm
Jeff: sorry I called you Mark. Must be my allergies.
ATL FAN
September 3rd, 2009
3:02 pm
The pass defense will be suspect for a while to come. When we gave up D-hall it was a curse sort of speak. Remember the tornado that rocked the dome on the day he was traded? I said it then and im saying it now! We will have secondary issues for the next five years. Sure we will grab some one here or there. But say what u will about d-hall he was a top ten corner in the nfl. It took how long to find him after deion was traded? Those are the only two top corners we have ever had. it’s gone be a long season!!!!!!!!!!!!
Beautiful Monte
September 3rd, 2009
3:02 pm
His team has yet to play its first “real” game, but it’s already become quite obvious that Morris is in WAY over his head. Instead of the next Mike Tomlin, it looks like the Bucs have hired the next Lilly Tomlin.
When I look at the Bucs’ schedule, I don’t see a single game what makes me think, “Yeah, they’ll win that one”. Obviously, there are a few games that they CAN win, but with an overmatched head coach and terrible QB situation, the Bucs are headed for a disasterous season … somewhere around 2-14, I’d imagine.
The “good” news for the Bucs is that they’ll have the first pick in the 2010 draft.
elviskl
September 3rd, 2009
3:03 pm
GET RID OF THE NO GOOD EX UGA PLAYER… ANYONE THAT PLAYED FOR UGA NEEDS TO BE EXTRICATED
Country Boy
September 3rd, 2009
3:06 pm
DJ is safe. If TD really wanted to improve qb backups he would have brought in more than an undrafted free agent from a predominately run oriented offense to compete. I am not trying to start a race roit or anything but many supporters still smarting from the misadventures of a certain qb departure.
Hollywould
September 3rd, 2009
3:06 pm
Jeff, I am waiting for the Shockley supporters to gripe that he is playing with the 2nd team offense while downgrading Redman’s performance last week for the same reason. You can’t have it both ways. Personally, I hope Shockley makes the team but he has to step up tonite. Tough defense to go against though.
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
3:09 pm
I hope you asked Dimitroff the obvious question:
By matching Baltimore’s offer to Foxworth, the team could have retained a part of the defense it needed to keep the most (corner) and still remain young and speedy (and intelligent, as Foxworth is a SMART corner).
I know others (like Bradley) have said that Foxworth’s deal was too much, but when the team is as under the cap as the Falcons are, they can literally afford to slightly overpay for what would be on this team a No. 1 corner.
To me, this has been Dimitroff’s ONLY mistake, yet it was a HUGE mistake, which makes it that much more glaring.
I know he won’t talk about it (because it’s not the Patriot’s Way), but he knows he should have signed Foxworth.
nhe
September 3rd, 2009
3:17 pm
BugKiller – Foxworth is from Maryland…………he was going to take that offer pretty much no matter what………..the Falcons would have had to offer quite a bit more to keep him. At the time, Vick’s hit against the cap still wasn’t completely known………it would have been foolish to sign Foxworth for what we would have had to pay.
I’d call it it unfortunate………not a mistake.
Craig
September 3rd, 2009
3:18 pm
Where can I get the hat that Coach Smith is wearing?
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
3:24 pm
nhe… there is NO such thing as the hometown discount.
It doesn’t exist anymore.
John Smoltz is the LAST guy who took a “hometown” discount when he gave up 20 extra million (and two more World Series rings) from the Yankees and re-signed with the Braves.
Mike Jay
September 3rd, 2009
3:24 pm
Dj still has practice squad elegibilty so they ‘could’ go that route but don’t count on it. I also think taht the recent trade sent a clear signal to ht rest of the defense that poor play will not be tolerated. While we are in rebuilding mode on defense they will still be held accountable. Now if Grimes could just grow 2 inches in two weeks I would feel much better about the secondary. Seriously, he is almost always in a postion to make a play but the NFL won’t let him take a step stool onto the field.
gdg73
September 3rd, 2009
3:30 pm
I say bring in Lawyer Milloy. I haven’t seen Decoud make a play yet and William Moore is injury prone and not ready for prime time. We have only one NFL caliber safety and that’s Erik Coleman. What happens if he gets hurt? You know, with all the tackles he has piled up so far, that could possibly happen. We would be in deep you know what.
Paul H
September 3rd, 2009
3:30 pm
Elviskl – check around the NFL. It is peppered with UGA players making names for themselves and their teams. Nice try, though. I’m sure your school has someone in the NFL.. maybe…
bali
September 3rd, 2009
3:35 pm
so how s shock looking
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
3:36 pm
No local TV coverage tonite….correct..?? someone…
masivatack
September 3rd, 2009
3:38 pm
Dang Craig, you beat me to the hat comment. Looks like he is on safari. Ha!
Hollywould
September 3rd, 2009
3:38 pm
WXIA TONITE
Daniel
September 3rd, 2009
3:41 pm
Jeff- Please Dimitroff we need a weak side linebacker!!!! The other positions at least have the chance of getting better with growth and expierence. Nicolas is NOT an NFL starting linebacker. Please HELP
Toots
September 3rd, 2009
3:41 pm
Dimitroff looks like he’s wearing the visor w/fake hair that Smoltz is so fond of.
C. Tampa Ironworse
September 3rd, 2009
3:41 pm
We’re talking about 3rd string QB? Really? Zzzzzzzzz….College in ON tonite and we’re talking about preseason? I just called Allen Iverson about this and he said:
“Practice? Y’all talking about practice? Not a game…not a game…not talking about a game…but practice?”
Then he said something about being the MVP…I kinda tuned him out after that.
Daniel
September 3rd, 2009
3:42 pm
I meant to say Jeff- please ask Dimitroff for a weak side linebacker
Big Ray
September 3rd, 2009
3:49 pm
If you’re going to slightly overpay for something, it should not be a cornerback, unless all other critical positions on your team are well-stocked. I think Dimitroff declined to overpay for a cornerback who was good, not great, because he realized another need may come up later in the season.
What if you experience multiple injuries to the linebacking corps or the defensive line, and you need a guy who can plug the run or put pressure on the passer? How happy will you be THEN with your overpaid cornerback, who can’t help you with either situation?
Look, growing pains were coming, and the front office (and coaching staff) knew this. No, we won’t likely go 11-5 this year, but we won’t go 4-12 either.
And these guys are trying to build this franchise to be a contender every year, not just this year or the next two years. When you’re on a Super Bowl run, THEN you overpay for a cornerback. Until then, learn to grow and evolve with that you have.
Big Ray
September 3rd, 2009
3:55 pm
If you go after veterans at certain positions NOW, you take away what you’ve been trying to build on: youth and speed/urgency. Despite last season’s record, we are in a rebuilding phase, and this is only year two. I think we lose sight of that a little too often.
Our young guys will have ample opportunity to learn and grow TOGETHER, rather than sitting on the bench, watching some tired, grizzled veterans try and grind it out (we already know what that looks like, don’t we?). That’s not to say that veteran players aren’t needed. They are. But we didn’t need as many as we had. And we didn’t need to overpay for ANY of them.
One more thing about Foxworth. Is he the kind of cornerback that keeps a quarterback from passing to his side of the field any time he’s in the game? No. So don’t overpay for him.
Again, this franchise is in rebuild mode. Let’s not forget that. Want another example? Why do you suppose Tony Gonzalez was brought here? To try and contend for and win the Super Bowl? No, and I don’t care what websites told you so. He was brought here to help ease the burden on offense, and for Matt Ryan’s (and the offense in general) development. If we do well enough to contend for a Super Bowl berth while Gonzalez is here, so much the better.
roman
September 3rd, 2009
3:56 pm
jeff, has anyone heard any talk of chris mcalister, or any other db still available, I know when teams start cutting rosters they could be someone better than grimes. he has heart but not the play
Maxwell Snark
September 3rd, 2009
3:57 pm
I think Raheem Morris, Josh McDaniels and Todd Haley are all going to have very short tenures as head coaches … something along the line of Lane Kiffin in Oakland, with similar results.
Bullish-on-the-Falcons
September 3rd, 2009
3:58 pm
The UGA posts are elsewhere. So is Shockley after tonight.
FalconFaninMI
September 3rd, 2009
4:00 pm
I think Shockley is gone. Even if he plays lights out tonight can you just ignore his play in the previous games? Consider this: Harrington was capable of lighting up the other team on occasion but that didn’t outweigh his flaws. At the end of the day what you saw with Joey was all you were ever going to get, so they passed on him in favor of Shockley, the guy who could play about as well as Joey but also had more potential upside. I think the same logic is now going to work against Shockley – he’s going into his 4th year so what you see on the field is probably as good as he’s ever going to get. JPW is playing about as well as Shockley and, again, has more potential upside. I would really like to see the hometown guy make the team, but I’m betting they keep JPW and cut DJ.
Native Georgian
September 3rd, 2009
4:02 pm
@nhe- Well said. At the time it made sense. And it’s not like we couldn’t break the bank today and get another Foxworth. We ain’t talkin about Deion.
@gdg73- Well said. Safety depth is a legitimate concern. I just hope TD’s pride wouldn’t prevent him from resigning Milloy. Youth doesn’t necessarily equate to good.
**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**
September 3rd, 2009
4:03 pm
I usually only write for my teammate D-Led, but hey, with T. Moore gone, you are a a TRUE AJC veteran now J. Shultz. Therefore, please accept this blog as my most sincere honor and pleasure:
(1) I disagree…Shockley is the Golden Boy’s good friend and supporter. He would have to throw 3 picks and look like Tony Graziani to get cut.
(2) I agree…LAWDOG should have been kept…if nothing else but for 1st and 2nd downs. Hell, throw DeCoud and Moore out there on passing downs and let the Law rest. Remember how the Law knocked the hell out of somebody in San Diego last year? He set the tone for the rest of the game and their scary ways…nobody did that on this past Saturday. Hence, we got forcibly abused.
(3) I disagree…they let Tye Hill go for a 7th round pick? He must have the the swine flu or something?!?!?!?Whatever it is, don’t expect this to pan out like Foxy…the only way that this would have worked was if they sent our #19 L. Robinson BACK. I’ve been telling D-LED, that was the worst move that Dimtroff has made. He WILL catch at least 8 touchdowns this year.
(4) I agree…the Bucs suck! AND, I like every bit of it. I hope we go down there and beat their brains in. Period.
Thanks for letting me visit…
FBD
gdg73
September 3rd, 2009
4:06 pm
Bring back Milloy to play SS!!! I love Coleman’s tenacity and willingness to mix it up, but he will get worn down playing in the box.
Nativebird
September 3rd, 2009
4:07 pm
NFL quarterbacking is ALL about decision-making. Reading defenses and delivering the ball to the right place at the right time, which means QUICK mental processing.
Notwithstanding his local appeal, and after 4 years of development, the sad truth is, DJ JUST SIMPLY AINT ALL THAT.
Accept it UGA people.
midnite
September 3rd, 2009
4:15 pm
Mr. Schultz enjoy that good spread Mr. Blank puts out for you media types. I’ve heard it was some nice food. Do you ever come out of that ivory tower and mingle with us common folk in the Club Level food court area? I usually see a lot of former players and media guys there. Enjoy!
Captain Jack
September 3rd, 2009
4:19 pm
YARRRRRRRRRRRRRR
WHERE BE ME TREASURE!!!!
Common sense
September 3rd, 2009
4:20 pm
Big Ray,
I agree with you. People in this country are short-sighted. We want instant results at all costs.
It applies to everything….including healthcare. We continue to fight against what is right for ” the team” aka America. We pay more than all other countries IN THE WORLD for healthcare. We
pay more for the SAME MEDICINE than ALL other countries. We allow the fleecing of our team aka
America and fight the insurance and pharmaceutical companies’ battles for them in order to keep the status quo. Who would Jesus deny health care to? Why are all the pro-life folks so against
caring for the babies ALREADY BORN??
INDIAN BIRD
September 3rd, 2009
4:21 pm
Shockley is gone, Wilson has already show more potential than I have seen in 4 years of #3. Bye Bye
chc4
September 3rd, 2009
4:23 pm
Shockley is NOT eligible for the practice squad. I’m a UGA backer but a realist as well. I think DJ is gone. His performance against St. Louis was a huge red flag. He made some atrocious reads and throws… the kind you’d expect from a rookie. The problem with Wilson is he only throws screens and short balls. It’d at least be nice to see him take a shot downfield. At least we know DJ has a strong arm but I don’t think that’s enough after 3 years.
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
4:32 pm
I’m sorry, Big Ray, but I have to disagree.
Even in SLIGHTLY overpaying for Foxworth’s services, the Falcons would have been MILLIONS under the cap.
And yes, to the other guy, the Falcons knew and have always known what Vick’s deadweight will cost them this year. They found out that information LAST year.
So I’m sorry, not signing Foxworth was a mistake, and still, it’s the ONLY mistake Dimitroff has made.
It’s just a biggie.
JJFalconFor Life
September 3rd, 2009
4:35 pm
Would everyone stop freaking out about one pre-season game? We knew that we would struggle for awhile (and its probably not over)but please don’t over-react. What was really lacking was any type of meaningful pass rush and THAT WE CAN FIX!
J-MAN
September 3rd, 2009
4:38 pm
Trade our 1st rounder and a 4th next year to the broncos for Champ Bailey and D.J. Williams and Problem SOLVED!!!!!!
GO DAWGS
September 3rd, 2009
4:39 pm
Tampa Bay Bucs have the worst starting QB Byron Leftwich in the NFL,they will be lucky to win 2 games.
Alex H.
September 3rd, 2009
4:40 pm
Big Ray said it right. Give them time to grow together. The Falcons brass know what they are doing. Go Falcons!
O'Brien
September 3rd, 2009
4:40 pm
I think Foxworth was going to sign with Baltimore unless the Falcons gave him more than Baltimore was offering. Isn’t he from Maryland?
Also, everybody knows that the Ravens defense is usually top 5, so who would not want to be on a defense that can dominate a game, especially with the pressure that the Ravens get on the QB, it will make Foxworth’s job easier.
If the Falcons can get some pass rush on the QB, that will help out our secondary. I do think Grimes is just too short to be our starting corner. And Houston is probably better off as a #2.
Hopefully our GM will find a diamond in the rough after cuts are made.
Einstein
September 3rd, 2009
4:42 pm
I hope Shockley makes the team, but it doesn’t look good. At UGA, he was never sharp coming in to spell David Greene…looked like he was pressing to make something happen. Same thing with the Falcons; however, as the starter, he was very efficient and very good. I still think we would have beaten Fla if he has been able to play his sr. year. Maybe he can show his real ability this game. Go Dawgs!
SimpleDawg
September 3rd, 2009
4:42 pm
The hiring of Raheem Morris was one of those “it worked for the Steelers”, copycat moves. Now, it’s beginning to look like a “let’s hire a black guy” move. Raheem talks like one of the Cosby Kids in such a rapid fire fashion that I have no idea what he said most of the time. His hiring will not doubt prove to be a huge mistake….just like several of the recent NFL hiring of all of these young coordinators – Denver, KC, Oakland ( Kiffin ).
midnite
September 3rd, 2009
4:44 pm
If y’all remember the defense looked bad last year too. There will be some good players from other teams cut this weekend. We got Foxworth off the junk pile last year. Just leave the personnel decisions to TD and Smitty they are sharp football minds. Take a deep breath and relax, the Falcons are gonna be OK.
midnite
September 3rd, 2009
4:47 pm
Tampa Bay is in trouble. Byron Leftwich’s feet=concrete blocks.
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
4:49 pm
Dimitroff doesn’t regret becoming a vegetarian….???
or is he a vegan..?? Jeff…do you know the difference..?? Falcons defense s/b okay by game 3 …Smith will make sure of that…
shadykraft
September 3rd, 2009
4:58 pm
All of you pining away for Lawyer Malloy, have you forgotten about the sissy tackle attempt in the playoff game last season? SPARTAAA! We do need some corners that are over 5 10′ in my armchair opinion.
shadykraft
September 3rd, 2009
5:00 pm
He (Malloy) basically patted the Cardinal on the back as her ran down the sidelines for a long td.
"FRIDGE"
September 3rd, 2009
5:02 pm
I’m really gonna miss Grady Jackson, he was a good BIG run-stuffer.
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
5:06 pm
Vegetarians can drink milk or eat cheese.
Vegans eat absolutely no meat products whatsoever, even the products that you don’t have to kill an animal for.
When you live in Athens and go to UGA, you tend to learn these things. Especially if you ever walk into The Grit.
falconidiot
September 3rd, 2009
5:08 pm
DJ ain’t playing to make the Falcons tonight, he is playing in hopes of another team giving him a shot, way over due, four year 3rd string QB, good grief.
Ron Roberts
September 3rd, 2009
5:18 pm
Yeah, “Falconidiot,” he OBVIOUSLY should’ve been the starter instead of that scrub Matt Ryan, right? And the season before, despite missing the whole season due to injury, he should’ve STILL been at least #2 on the depth chart, right? Sheesh.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
5:18 pm
Steve Carter – He looks great! … Smith wouldn’t divulge QB plans, other than the fact Ryan will play a series.
Nite Owl (no problem on name) … I only know what TD told me, and when he said 2 weeks it wasn’t a statement of trading for a bunch of players but rather for fixing the problems. The Rams thing just sort of happened.
FF – Shock can’t be on the practice squad. The rule is you can only be on the PS in your first two years if you’ve played 9 games or less (total).
Tech75
September 3rd, 2009
5:26 pm
Shock needs to see if he can go back to school and get a degree so he can make some money after he’s released and no one picks him up.
Anyone know if he ever graduated from UGA, and if so what major? Just curious. Probably Phys-Ed or Media or Elementary Ed or somesuch… in which case he’ll probably join the ranks of the unemployable.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
5:28 pm
Bugkiller – I’ve spoke to Dimitroff about Foxworth in the past and the bottom line is the two teams valued him differently. Translation: The Falcons didn’t think he was worth any where near the money he got from the Ravens.
Craig – The safari hat? It’s a good look for him. I’ll ask him next week.
Mike Jay – OK, I can see this question is going to come up a lot. I just asked Falcon official about Shockley’s PS eligibility and he is double-checking.
Roman – I don’t think plan now is to bring anybody else in (who’s available), unless somebody pops free. In other words, no on McAlister.
FBD – check in at any time.
Midnite – I never complain about pressbox food because we don’t have to eat it. But I think it’s only burgers tonight. (FYI, in a lot of boxes it’s not free any more).
J-Man – sure, you work that out and then I’ll relay the deal to Dimitroff.
Bulldog Bob
September 3rd, 2009
5:29 pm
Go DJ Shockley! You are a winner and will make it somewhere other than this god forsaken poor excuse for an NFL city.
Greg
September 3rd, 2009
5:30 pm
I agree that basically in the NFL you get what you pay for, and Tye Hill must be pretty weak if he can only fetch a 7th round pick. And yet…., he will instantly be the fastest DB on the team (maybe the fastest PLAYER on the team). This guy was a great, great sprinter in college, and he’s still young. One thing TD obviously is thinking here is that, like Grimes, if he gets beaten, or just confused, and messes up, he is one of those guys who has catch-up speed. He can afford to make certain kinds of mistakes, and still recover. And TD has great confidence in his secondary coach, who MUST have been deeply consulted on this transaction. I’m willing to give TD the benefit of the doubt here. I’m hopeful about Hill. On the whole, however, I’m really worried about the lack of a pass rush PLUS a couple weak corners. That combination spells d-o-o-m!
Bulldog Bob
September 3rd, 2009
5:32 pm
Tech 75! You blow. Go game plan for Jacksonville State you loser.
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
5:38 pm
Thanks BugKiller…I really wanted to know if Jeff knew….now I’ll never know..but now I KNOW the dofference so I’m happy…LOL….go Falcons..!! DJ..this is your time to shine and make some $$$ to hold a clip board…good luck..what are the financial impilications of signing Wilson versus Shockley…(4yr guy as opposed to a rookie.)..anybody know..??
Be-little, BeBOLD
September 3rd, 2009
5:38 pm
John Parker Wilson did all right as Alabama’s QB last year. He’s a keeper and DJ is a goner! To much zip on short passes just like the Vickster and the ball goes right thru receiver’s hands or straight up to be picked off.
mars
September 3rd, 2009
5:49 pm
I hope DJ does well. I agree he did not help his case last week, so I concede he may be gone. The mystery is, since he is obviously head and shoulders above Wilson (who most certainly has NOT played better than Shockley this preseason, Indian Birdbrain), in talent and potential who are we gonna sign to come in and be 3rd QB for 2009?
Ken Strickland
September 3rd, 2009
5:54 pm
BUGKILLER-we had absolutely too many holes to fill on DEF to overpay for DFoxworth, a CB that’s never been considered a shutdown or premier CB. TD and Smitty felt they could afford to go with youth, speed and quickness because of an outstanding, much improved OFF that can control the ball, the clock and score points.
It’s obvious mgt want’s to win now, but not at the expense of jeopardizing our future. And the future of our secondary should rest with young players like JFudge, AHarris, WMoore, TDeCoud, EColeman, COwens, CHouston, BGrimes, CJackson and THill, not past their prime players like LMilloy.
GDG74-why do you think EColeman will wear down this season when he led the team in total tackles last yr, which is why he was moved to SS? If our DL, LB’s and OFF do their jobs, none of our secondary personnel should wear down. As far as Shockey goes, our coaches are looking for a QB that’s capable of replacing QB CRedmon as the #1 backup, and he hasn’t proven capable of doing that. He hasn’t even shown he’s capable of separating himself from rookie QB JP Wilson. He might be popular and a former UGA QB, but that’s not enough to get the job done people.
FREDRICK DOUGLAS-remember, we substituted DeCoud for Milloy last yr and it didn’t work. Teams took advantage of us with SS LMilloy, MLB CLofton and DT GJackson on the field by using play action pass plays on 1st and 2nd downs. Remember, Petrino released GJackson and replaced him with DT TLewis because our rushing DEF and pass rush were so poor. We resigned GJackson last yr and still finished near the bottom of the league in rushing DEF and rushing the passer. YOU DON’T SOLVE A PROBLEM BY BRINGING BACK THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM.
willie
September 3rd, 2009
5:56 pm
I want to see alot of Owens and Sidbury tonight…I think these guys will need to contribute right away.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
5:56 pm
Craig — supposedly Smith brought the safari hat with him up from Jacksonville.
Bob Horner — I’m from California originally. I memorized the Vegan 12 Step Program by the time I was six. (Alas, I failed. Love ribeyes too much).
Mars — At this point I don’t think the team would sign another QB from the outside, unless somebody really surprising popped free.
Sonny Clusters
September 3rd, 2009
6:05 pm
Regrets, we had a few. We was always changing quarterbacks and that’s not good.
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
6:11 pm
Jeff…understood thanks for the 411…I’m okay with a Ribeye over a Filet…but picking Penny over Judy on Lost in Space..??? you’re nuts..!!! Go Falcons..
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
6:12 pm
Isn’t Tony Gonzalez like a part-time Vegan?
I mean, he doesn’t eat red meat or dairy, and will only OCCASIONALLY eat fish or chicken.
I like beans in my chili, but I also love the ground beef and ground pork that I put in there, too. 5 Beans. 2 Meat. I make a helluva chili, but I digress.
While I definitely could stand to lose some weight and lay off the red meat, switching to fish and chicken, I can’t for the life of me give up on meat. It’s crazy. It’s also biologically unsound. We’re MADE (whether by a Creator, evolution, or Divine Purpose [combo platter of the first two]) as omnivores.
Plus, you ever have to use a bathroom after a vegetarian or a vegan? Phew!
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
6:18 pm
BugKiller…I’ve used the can after a gay man..(at work, not at home I promise) and he apparently wouldn’t actually “sit” on the toilet…he merely squatted…and crapped all over it…beat that…good luck
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
6:25 pm
TMI, Horner.
TMI.
Also, the sexual identity of the guy not really a prereq there, either. There are people out there with OCD or other social disorders who have issues using public restrooms.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
6:28 pm
Bob — I was pretty young at the time so Penny was closer to my age. Relatively speaking, Judy was a Cougar.
BravesFan79
September 3rd, 2009
6:28 pm
Should of kept Grady Jackson and Foxworth!!
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
6:33 pm
BugKiller…
What disorder precludes anyone from cleaning up the toilet..??? embarassment knowing you’re a weirdo..??
Frank Wren
September 3rd, 2009
6:34 pm
LSU just scored again
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
6:38 pm
Falcons quarterbacks just came onto the field. Shockley’s first warmup toss was complete!!!!! (The crowd goes crazy!!!!) … So was Wilson’s. (The crowd sighs….) … Hey, just trying to keep the conversation lively ….
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
6:43 pm
No… USING a public toilet, or fear of having a body part touch something so germy that others use.
Trust me, people with OCD or even Aspergers, depending on what patterns they follow, would hover such as that, and then certainly would not clean up something like that.
Also, I don’t think my gay cousin hovers, so the point I was making was that you including the fact that the guy was gay was kinda unnecessary, that’s all.
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
6:46 pm
I hope Shock comes through, and yes, this have EVERYTHING to do with what he did at Georgia.
If Shock never gets hurt, he could have accomplished much more.
Think about it: the Dawgs would have gone undefeated, but like Auburn the year before, would have been the second straight SEC team to be shut out of the MNC.
THAT would have gotten people into such an uproar that we may have an actual playoff system right now in which, let’s say the top-8 conference champions have a playoff.
Think about it: if not for some a-hole Arkansas defensive back tackling Shock low, diving at his knees, we could have a college football playoff right now.
Rick
September 3rd, 2009
6:57 pm
I’ve always wondered why people were so crazy about DJ Schockley … while he did win a few games while at UGA, he never really “looked” like a great QB. Yes, this opinion is coming from a mere casual observer, but DJ always appeared to be out of place in the role of QB. Maybe his skill set would be better leveraged in a different role.
No doubt he’s a great guy, and no doubt he has the homestate thing going for him … but this is a business, and the Falcons need to make sure they get the proper person to occupy that role.
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
6:59 pm
BugKiller…point taken…I’ll take the high road…
Nite Owl
September 3rd, 2009
7:07 pm
Bugkiller, my mouth was watering over your description of your chili, then you changed gears to the bathroom thing. Real buzzkill there. LOL.
That was like eyeing a hot chick from behind, then she turns around, and you realize she’s a dude.
Not that there’s anything wrong with that.
Anyway, someone please tell me that Michael Turner is stored in bubble wrap up at Flowery Branch and nowhere near the dome tonight.
Bob Horner had a sweet compact swing
September 3rd, 2009
7:08 pm
Shockley has to play well tonite…..there is so much $$$$ on the line for him..I am pulling for him, big time…I hate pre-season game #4…but being a dawg fan I’ll watch tonite…(as well as watching Braves/Marlins…Cocks/Wolfpack…) been 8 months since I’ve watched 3 sporting events that I was really “fired up” about…..Thank God…football is back..!!!!!!!!
toccoadawg
September 3rd, 2009
7:12 pm
Hows Wilson looking
Tyger
September 3rd, 2009
7:15 pm
Wrong, wrong, wrong as usual…
Shockley doesn’t have to be great to win the job, he has to be good. Move the ball, put points on the board, control the offense, don’t turn the ball over. The Falcoons are in a great position with Ryan and Redman, but if either get hurt, you are much better off with Shockley in wait, rather than what’s his name?
Oh!, JP Wilson is eligible for the practice squad and that’s where he should be. Falcoons should be shooting for a championship, which requires quality depth, not squandering talent to the next team.
Mike Jay
September 3rd, 2009
7:19 pm
Jeff I have heard conflicting reports on DJ’s practice squad eligability. I ‘think’ the year on injured reserve bought him another year of PS potential.
KT
September 3rd, 2009
7:26 pm
Go JPW!!!!
ron
September 3rd, 2009
7:28 pm
falcons,bulldogs who gives a rats behind.
Andre
September 3rd, 2009
7:29 pm
I love the dawgs and dj was great there but he hasn’t shown anything you gotta go with jp wilson. GO DAWGS.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
7:34 pm
Mike Jay — Still trying to nail it down. I’ve heard conflicting things also. DJ’s been in league 2 years officially (plus one on injured) and I thought 2 years was max for PS player.
mike
September 3rd, 2009
7:35 pm
I think Shock needs a new start. He’s gotten stale riding the bench here. I hope he goes somewhere else and gets a viable shot at being a starter….or the CFL, where he can get some reps!
MOT
September 3rd, 2009
7:36 pm
Keeping Shockley shouldn’t be an issue or even newsworthy – but some UGA fans are putting their own alligience ahead of what’s best for the Falcons. Should be an easy decision. If it’s a dead heat … keep the younger gun. The Falcon’s secondary is the focus. Jeff, keep us dialed in that competition.
Dennis
September 3rd, 2009
7:43 pm
93rd. I bet you 1st and 2nd guys are impressed, huh?
Sheesh.
But fwiw, I am a WGA fan and three named brats aggravate me, but I think it’s time for Shockley to look elsewhere.
Dennis
September 3rd, 2009
7:44 pm
And I probably would have made that UGA if I’d had my glasses on when I proof read that.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
7:46 pm
Strange — 3-9 from the Baltimore 49 and Falcons run a draw … Oh well, pre-season.
Ryan’s had his one series and is done, I’d imagine. He went 1 for 1.
John Parker Wilson has his helmet on. Shockley doesn’t. Redman doesn’t. Deductive reasoning: Wilson’s coming in next series.
preston
September 3rd, 2009
7:50 pm
guess who just scored a qb draw touchdown for the eagles……… any one care for a lucky guess??????
BugKiller
September 3rd, 2009
7:52 pm
Who cares. That Felon is someone else’s problem now.
Jeff Schultz
September 3rd, 2009
7:53 pm
For those who’ve been asking: YES, Shockley is eligible for the practice squad.