Falcons’ game against Eagles shaping up as must-win
Matt Ryan lost to one of his idols, Donovan McNabb, last season in Philadelphia. This time, he'll probably have to beat him for the Falcons to make the playoffs (Curtis Compton/AJC).
Two months ago, there was great anticipation for the Falcons-Philadelphia game Dec. 6. Why? Because it would be Michael Vick’s return to Atlanta.
There should still be great anticipation for the Falcons-Philadelphia game. Why? Because if the Falcons don’t win that night, they may not make the playoffs.
Loading ...Having lost four out of their last five games and dropping to 5-5, the Falcons logically are out of the NFC South race. They probably have to go at least 4-2 (maybe 5-1) in the final six games to win an NFC wild card spot. Strange things happen in the NFL. But the Falcons have made things difficult on themselves because they’ve already lost four NFC games and head-to-head meetings with the New York Giants (6-4) and Dallas Cowboys (7-3, a wild card competitor if they don’t win the NFC East). Losing to the Eagles (6-4) would significantly diminish chances of winning any tiebreaker scenarios.
In short, the Falcons haven’t left themselves any wiggle room. They still have at least three easily winnable games (two vs. Tampa Bay, one vs. Buffalo) and another one against the sliding New York Jets. But winning a playoff spot outright will be difficult.
As a follow up to last week, here’s another breakdown of how things look.
Seven for the wild cards
♦ 1. Philadelphia (6-4, 5-2): That was a big win for the Eagles over Chicago Sunday night because it raised their NFC record to 5-2, best among the wild card candidates. The Eagles have an easy game next week (Washington), then play the Falcons, Giants, 49ers, Broncos and Cowboys. But they’re still missing running back Brian Westbrook, whose status for the rest of the season is uncertain because of two concussions in a span of three weeks.
♦ 2. Green Bay (6-4 overall, 5-3 in NFC): It’s hard to see the Packers missing the playoffs. They have a better overall and conference record than the Falcons and four of the next five games are against the Lions (2-8), Ravens (5-5), Bears (4-5) and Seahawks (3-7).
♦ 3. N.Y. Giants (6-4, 4-3): They hold two tiebreaker edges over the Falcons (conference, head to head), but the schedule the next three weeks is rugged: at Denver, Dallas, Philadelphia.
♦ 4. Falcons (5-5, 4-4): They’re 1-4 since a 4-1 start. That’s the wrong kind of turnaround. In addition to the poor conference record, they’re also only 1-5 on the road, but remaining road games against the N.Y. Jets and Tampa Bay both are winnable.
♦ 5. San Francisco (4-6, 4-3): The 49ers started the season 3-1 but are 1-5 since, and the slide started with a loss to the Falcons. But the next two games are against Jacksonville and Seattle, so they could hang around a while.
♦ 6. Carolina (4-6, 4-4): The Falcons have split two games with the Panthers. Carolina lost to Miami four days after beating the Falcons and could go 2-4 with this remaining schedule: at N.Y. Jets, Tampa Bay, at New England, Minnesota, at N.Y. Giants, New Orleans.
♦ 7. Chicago (4-6, 2-5): The Falcons actually hold two tiebreaker edges (conference, head to head) over the Bears. But at this point Chicago doesn’t look like a competitor, especially with a remaining schedule that includes two games against Minnesota and one against Green Bay.
So there’s this week’s update. How confident are you of the Falcons’ chances? I’ve also put up a poll.
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173 comments Add your comment
falcon 71
November 23rd, 2009
7:24 am
if by slim chance they make the playoff they will loose in the 1st round just like last year
Nativebird
November 23rd, 2009
7:27 am
This QB cannot do it all by himself, the Vets on this team other than Tony G., need to STEP UP and make some plays. M. Jenkins is a Joke and have proven he’s not interested in being a big time pro. Time for Weems in the slot.
bali
November 23rd, 2009
7:29 am
till they upgrade the secondary and get their timing down on field goals i would think their is very little chance the falcons are going anywhere but home when the season ends.
Brian in Villa Rica
November 23rd, 2009
7:41 am
It’s a numbers game from here. 10 wins might not get us in with the tie-breaker disadvantage. Falcons will need to run the table to assure themselves of a spot.
Shirly Hemphill
November 23rd, 2009
7:42 am
Jenkins can’t catch, E-lame can’t kick, Abraham is AWOL…don’t even get me started on the secondary!
Playoffs ?…PLAYOFFS???!!!…
I'm with Shirly H...
November 23rd, 2009
7:49 am
…PLAYOFFS? playoffs? playoffs (squeaky voice)? ARE YOU KIDDIN’ME? PLAYOFFS? don’t talk to me about PLAYOFFS! Playoffs?
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
7:52 am
Falcons 71 — I’m not sure about that. Two teams (Minnesota,New Orleans) stand above everybody else, but the Falcons wouldn’t have to play either one in a wild card game.
Here's a clue...
November 23rd, 2009
7:52 am
…to the defensive backs – every once in a while you HAVE to turn around and find the ball! Who is coaching those guys – Willie Martinez? OPH yeah, the great Brian Van Gorder whom the Bulldog think is better than Willie! What a freakin’ joke both defenses (Falcons and UGA) are.
What a lost weekend – Falcons lose, Hawks lose, Thrashers lose, and UGA loses twice (FB and BB). Lucky for Tech they had the week off!
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
7:54 am
Native Bird — I think losing the downfield speed of Harry Douglas, even as a third receiver, hurt the offense a lot. He would’ve stretched defenses and opened up the middle.
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
7:57 am
And I agree with you folks on Jenkins. Huge disappointment. I really thought he had started to turn the corner last season and would be a solid No. 2 this year. Hasn’t been the case. I also think Roddy White has been slowed by a recent knee sprain more than he’ll admit.
Larry
November 23rd, 2009
7:57 am
This team is poorly coached, poorly prepared for nearly every game, and has two many players that are in key roles who they cannot depend on (Jenkins, Elam, Abraham, Norwooed and the entire secondary.
Brain Van Gorder just may be the biggest bust in the NFL as a Defensive Coordinator as never have more our of position players on third and longs and never have I seen more wide open all pro receivers and tight ends roaming the secondary.
8-8 or 9-7 at best, out of the playoffs, and no hope for the immediate future with this DC and group of defensive players who are actually regressing the past two years.
Dude
November 23rd, 2009
7:58 am
It may not be conventional wisdom: however, the Falcons should have gone for 2 after we tied the game with 28 seconds left. That would have put the game in the hands of the players rather than banking on winning the coin toss. Especially considering that we were away from home and did not have the advantage of the crowd in case we lost the toss.
"Chef" Tim Dix
November 23rd, 2009
7:59 am
Need to issue amber alert for John Abraham.
"Chef" Tim Dix
November 23rd, 2009
8:03 am
The breck girl Chris Houston cannot turn on coverage due to his shiny, silky, full of body dreds…
MiltonDawg
November 23rd, 2009
8:04 am
No chance if we don’t sign another kicker and a “decent” DB. I know we’ve had our injuries back there but our secondary looked absolutely disgusting yesterday. i saw some plays where there wasn’t a DB 10-15 yds from the Giants WRs.
mountain_jim
November 23rd, 2009
8:05 am
Dimitroff’s fault for not getting decent CBs in free agency. May be time for a new defensive backs coach, one who can teach turning and looking for the ball…
I knew if we lost the coin toss we would lose the game. Really sucks after such a great comeback, to know your game depends on the coin toss.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
November 23rd, 2009
8:06 am
Saying this game is a must win is like saying Jon & Kate’s marriage may be in trouble
CHEF MENTUER
November 23rd, 2009
8:09 am
Those db’s are the worst in the NFL. I don’t think any of the corner backs on this team would even make a roster on any other team! We are done. This is Dimitroff’s fault for not addressing in pre season.
The Real Falcon
November 23rd, 2009
8:15 am
The facts are the facts: no secondary play, too many yards and too many points. Winning record yes, playoffs not a chance! Sad to say.
Shirly Hemphill
November 23rd, 2009
8:16 am
Jenkins needs be moved to the secondary…he’s the only Falcon good at knocking down passes.
E-Lame’s next crazy-ass book should be about an NFL team being sabotaged by a Taliban placekicker.
Bring in Gus the Mule!…Fred MacMurray to hold!
Richard Dawson
November 23rd, 2009
8:17 am
Ryan may be back (I’m not convinced he’s all that good), but Elam sure ain’t. It was obvious to me when he yanked that PAT many games ago, and missed an easy FG in the same game, that he needed to go. There’s GOT to be someone out there that can make a 35-yard FG and PATs. But no, we stick with this over-the-hill bum, and guess what, he cost us a game. Nice going, Mike Smith.
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
8:28 am
Larry, I’m not sure if you’re just trying to provoke a reaction but where does the “poorly coached, poorly prepared” analysis come from?
Tim
November 23rd, 2009
8:34 am
No defense = no playoffs. It’s that simple. Falcons bet the farm at beginning of year that their offense would overcome the shortcomings on defense. Not so far. If the secondary can’t improve in a hurry, this team will be home for the playoffs. A little pass rush would help too – from the d-line.
Gamer
November 23rd, 2009
8:36 am
With Grimes atheleticism, why not try him at FREE-SAFETY?
Jenkins please make the easy catches.
Why not use Weems more in slot?
Falcons still can go 10-6, maybe enough wins to make postseason.
Next season start getting rid of over hill receivers and get cover corner.
Eric C.
November 23rd, 2009
8:36 am
The defense is so far below average…last year they didn’t give up 30 pts in any regular season games, this year 30+ is becoming the norm it seems.
Kashi
November 23rd, 2009
8:40 am
Send ELAM to doctor, his kick is not extending as it used to be. Either his leg is getting shoter due to AWOL or his hamstring is more serious then he thinks. I agree 100% bring Jenkins for secondary play. This make logical sense with his speed and ability to break pass and might get more INTs. Chris Houston is worst then any high school CB. I was very dissaponted that Smith didn’t bring in Tye Hill to replace Chris Houston in second half. Hello Mike Smith..what happen to your every Monday speech…We need to match up to our opponents? Did you forget a guy name Tye Hill was in bench?
Falconian
November 23rd, 2009
8:42 am
Where is the whole 2009 draft? Perry, William Moore, Sidbury, Middleton…etc? We were told that our defense was the problem last year, and would be addressed, and now this year the problem is once again defense, and every single player we drafted either didn’t make the team or is nursing themselves on the sidelines. Maybe we need to start second guessing whether Dimitroff is who we think he was???
Josh M
November 23rd, 2009
8:43 am
The schedule always set up this way. The hard part of it is effectively over, meaning both tough games remaining (Saints, Eagles) are at the Dome. With Bucs, Bucs, Jets and Bills remaining, we SHOULD only have to win one of the tough ones to get to 10 wins and a playoff spot.
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
8:51 am
Shirley Hemphill — Funny line on Jenkins.
Kashi — This is no defense of Chris Houston, but Tye Hill got absolutely torched the week before at Carolina. He’s no prize either.
Falconian — Not you can play Dimitroff (or anybody) for injuries.
PMC
November 23rd, 2009
8:52 am
This one is on Dimitroff this year so far. The talent level is not good enough for them to win with this schedule or survive injuries. There are a lot of factors. Obviously they overachieved last year and we had hoped for more. They are in every game but they just don’t have the talent to win on defense and Jason Elam continues to drag this team down. He should have bought his own ticket to where ever he calls home yesterday.
They knew the defense would struggle anyway because they were relying on rookies. This team was not built to win this year. They were hoping for the offense to be much better, Douglass injury is huge because he is a tremendous playmaker. The OL is still very very porous pass blocking. The talent level of the team equates to mediocrity.
Michael Jenkins continues to struggle mightily.
That said the Falcons still have an outside chance to make the playoffs because there aren’t really very many great teams in the wild card picture. Lots and lots of average teams in the hunt.
The Panthers, Cowboys and Gints losses are killing them…. Jason Elam must be fired immediately. I don’t care if they have to audition high school kickers. Elam is beyond finished. If the long snapper is the problem replace him too!
PMC
November 23rd, 2009
8:53 am
Clearly they were willing to hope for success this year but plan for down the road. I get that. I still have hope for what they are building but this team this year does not have the talent to make the playoffs at this point.
awesome dude
November 23rd, 2009
8:54 am
I hate the NFL’s overtime rules. I mean you have the players busting there butts for 60 min to have the game decided on a coin toss. It’s bogus. they should adopt some form of the college rules or just play a 5 min OT period. sudden death is just stupid.
Nativebird
November 23rd, 2009
8:56 am
Did you folks notice the trash-talk former Falcons tend to do?; But Boley appeared to followed K. Brooking’s lack of class this year by showing on-field childish smack against their former teams.
These guys proved they were NOT leading LB’s in Atlanta, then go to better defenses where they can blend in as fill in LB’s, then show there rears against the team that GAVE them their shot?
Just Goes to show they’re ALL 13 year old teenager ego’s inside at the end of the day.
Brookings autograph and photo have come OFF the mancave wall.
Sports Watcher
November 23rd, 2009
8:57 am
The Falcons versuses Eagles game will put Atlanta back on the radar again….Which Bird team is better????
http://www.mikevick.ning.com
PMC
November 23rd, 2009
8:58 am
Personally I think it’s the embarassing pass rush not the DB’s that are the real issue. Houston has finally started searching for the ball. Grimes can make plays. With the rules on defense so unabashedly infavor of the offense money is better spent trying to find guys who maul QB’s. It would be nice to have better man corners so they could bring more heat exotically especially with Decoup’s ability to desguise his blitzes but the front four (like it generally always is for our falcons) is embarassing.
Until we finally become solid on both lines of scrimmage consistant winning will elude us.
Falconian
November 23rd, 2009
9:01 am
But Jeff, you can wonder why you draft a big defensive lineman #1 that has a history of injuries. Also, is Sidbury and Owens not who they thought they would be? We cannot have another draft in 2010 that ends up having 1 or 2 players contributing.
Brownie
November 23rd, 2009
9:01 am
Looking at this team in the pre-season, I had them at 6-4 right now (Carolina game only real bad surprise), so no need to sharpen the sword and start chopping heads.
Everyone is right on Jenkins…he hasn’t developed into a #2 (although a very good downfield blocker), and Harry Douglas would have been an upgrade. But, it is what it is for this year.
Elam has definitely lost leg strength and confidence, but don’t underestimate the impact of losing your top long-snapper. When Koenen raises his arms to call for the snap, there is a very exact timing of how soon the ball should arrive and be placed…and the snapper is slow to deliver right now. You see the evidence of Elam stutter-stepping a few times. Nevertheless, we’ll see a new PK next year.
Everybody wants to slam Abraham, but he’s been playing hurt all year (normally he would sit out until healthy). I don’t have any issues with the DLine or linebackers.
Now, the DB’s….just not making any plays. I wouldn’t blame Van Gorder though – he’s not coaching the DB’s (that would be Thomas), and I think overall BVG is doing very well with an undermanned squad. Dimitroff’s draft was all about defense, and we’re not seeing productivity from any of them. Vance Walker made a play yesterday, but the rookie DB’s either didn’t make the team or haven’t contributed at all. AND Peria Jerry and William Moore barely found their cleats.
I still think the Falcons can hit 9-7, and considering everything that wouldn’t be bad. Playoffs are definitely a stretch.
Kane337
November 23rd, 2009
9:02 am
You gotta win on the road to be a playoff team. Right now the Falcons are a wretched 1-5 on the road. That’s just not going to get it done. They are going to have to win the rest of the home games and squeeze out a road win to give themselves a chance.
Since the Mike Smith regime started the Falcons are undeafted on the road (excluding playoffs) against Northern opponents (Green Bay, Minnesota) and West opponents (San Fran, Oakland, San Diego). They are winless on the road against Southern teams (all divsional games and Dallas) and East teams (Philly, NYG, NE). I just found that a little odd.
F-105 Thunderchief
November 23rd, 2009
9:04 am
I just want them to break the curse. Four more wins, it’ll take.
Oh, and Michael Jenkins really stinks this season.
Corey
November 23rd, 2009
9:05 am
My my, how quickly we turn on the ones we love.
Reg
November 23rd, 2009
9:09 am
I love the Falcons. However every time I see Chris Houston I think he is channeling a Charles Dimry/Bobby Butler antiback. Can we get someone to at least hit receivers hard after a catch?
Reg
November 23rd, 2009
9:10 am
I’ve seen better coverage in the UFL than the Falcon secondary this year…
Reg
November 23rd, 2009
9:13 am
And lets stop the “winning season” scenarios. Its like saying “you can cut off my hand but don’t amputate my arm”. A winning season is a Super Bowl appearance or win. Period.
RB
November 23rd, 2009
9:15 am
They are who we thought they are!!!!!
SOUTH GA BIRD FAN
November 23rd, 2009
9:15 am
it takes more than two years to build a team the falcons from the past would have laid down and quit by now these birds are fighting and i am proud of them . Lets remember how bad we were expecting to be last year in all honesty last year we expected to lose and didn’t this year expectations were a little high but they battle its easy to stay behind this team , and they will improve. You cant coach injuries and nobody drafts perfect every year. i will take what we have in coaching and the front office its so much better than what we have had in the past.
GO FALCONS !!!!!!!!!
Manny
November 23rd, 2009
9:17 am
I purposely didn’t watch this game. I thought that the Falcons would be overmatched. I turned it on briefly when I saw that the game was tied. Once it went into overtime, though; I turned it off- predicting accurately how it would end.
See, without Michael Turner- and without a strong D-line, I knew that the cause was lost. (See, I knew that the DBs were young; but with a good push, Eli can get jittery.) But I knew that it wouldn’t happen.
Here’s my other problem- if you can’t get a surge on McNabb, this game is over before it starts. McNabb will pick our DBs apart. I just don’t like the matchup.
Here’s the only way that the Falcons can win:
1. We have to be at full strength at running back. That’s #1. That sets our offense up really nice, and we need long, time-consuming drives.
2. Our D-line must play above their heads. In other words, the D-line must have a banner day. They must play on the other side of the line.
3. We must not rely on Matt Ryan so much. He cannot win the game on his own. He doesn’t have that kind of game.
4. We must solve the #10 problem (because he alone can kill us.)
If we can do that, we will win. Barely. But most teams with an above-average QB and a speedster at WR gives us fits.
preston
November 23rd, 2009
9:25 am
I agree that the Falcons must win the Philadelphia game but Jeff, considering that Tampa Bay always plays Atlanta tough, and that they already surprised Green Bay, wouldn’t you agree that the Falcons better not look past Tampa Bay. I know the Tampa stinks this yr, but if we lose to them, then our season is definately over.
Talented 10th
November 23rd, 2009
9:32 am
All I gotta say is: GO SAINTS!
PMC
November 23rd, 2009
9:41 am
Overall, I like that this team is passionate they are in every game and I feel like they play really hard. Eventually when the talent matches the passion. Even if they don’t make the playoffs I’m still happy with the overall direction of the club. It’s not like I’m going to go out and be a fan of someone else anyway. If you’re a fan of the Falcons you have to be happy with baby steps or take joy in whatever you can.
How much does Jenkins
November 23rd, 2009
9:43 am
make in a season? I know we re-upped him last year. What’s the damage on a guy who can’t catch a cold?
And what about the kicking situation? Elam is a lost cause, when does Keonan start get a shot? Stupid kicker…
ELVISINTHEHOUSE.
November 23rd, 2009
9:46 am
Who cares about the sorry falcons,every year since 1966 you get the same response from media and fans on these blogs.When will you people wake up and realize when it comes to this sorry organization all you have is HOPE.every 4 or 5 years,new coach same results and i don’t know why people think ryan is not at fault,leave it up to you people he do no wrong.Hell the water boy will get blamed before ryan,just call it like it is he SUCKS…..
Sam
November 23rd, 2009
9:47 am
Bottom line Falcon Folks. WAIT TILL NEXT YEAR!!!!!!!!!! Have we heard that before?
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
9:48 am
Falconian — That is a good point about Jerry’s injury history, and I know it was talked about. … As for how many from a draft contribute, that generally depends on players around them. NFL teams rarely get a lot of immediate impact players. Falcons’ defense was/is bad, so drafted players have to be standouts to, well, stand out. Just saying it’s way too early to judge a draft. To me this is more a result of not enough vets, guys who know what they’re doing.
ELVISINTHEHOUSE.
November 23rd, 2009
9:56 am
I wonder why jeff and these bloggers did’nt see this problem when every other Q.B was behind center other than ryan.Back in the past a false start would be blamed on the Q.B if a pass is over thrown you would hear the WR could have ran faster,a ball get INT you would hear the WR ran the wrong route,if ryan held the ball too long you would hear the line aint blocking ect…its amazing how this prick(ryan)don’t get a ounce of blame when Q.BS in the past did.Let me open the people eyes sooner than later,ryan SUCKS….
MR
November 23rd, 2009
10:08 am
You don’t see overtime or talk about Elam missing a field goal if Jenkins catches the TD pass. No excuse for that one. No pass rush on Eli contributed to his great day. Yes the DBs could have done better but he still had to much time to look down the field. When he was pressured his passes were not as crisp. Van Gorder has got to get more agressive with his blitzs. Your DBs are weak and cannot cover so go after the QB. You are gettng burned without pressure, might as well get burned with blitzing.
MR
November 23rd, 2009
10:09 am
ELVISINTHEHOUSE, you are an idiot.
MR
November 23rd, 2009
10:10 am
ELVISINTHEHOUSE, sorry you do not even achieve the rank of idiot.
ken
November 23rd, 2009
10:14 am
Management has failed to do anything to improve the defense, especially the secondary and this will be the primary reason they will not make the playoffs. They will finish 9-7 at best. Sorry, but the handwriting has been on the wall all season.
Falconian
November 23rd, 2009
10:18 am
I agree with you big time on the vets thing. I do think that if Abraham is not able to do his thing they need to go ahead and sit him down and maybe have a full strenth Abraham for the playoffs if they got there. Did you notice yesterday, he was doing nothing but bullrushing the tackle. He has no underneath cutting ability at all right now. If he isnt getting sacks, then you might as well be giving a Sidbury a shot at doing something.
Old Dawg 3
November 23rd, 2009
10:20 am
Ryan hasnt been playing as well as capable for sure.But he took a beating yesterday and still was only a missed field goal away from pulling out a win.Ryan does not suck.31 points,come on.Did you see the fire in is eyes on that last drive.That’s what seperates Ryan from other QB’s we have had.That determination.I bet he’s studying film right now.He slumps sometimes but he doesn’t give up.We as Falcon fans are lucky to have him.And realize what a big step in the right direction 9-7 would be.Know your history Falcon fans..
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
10:35 am
Elvis in the House — You’ve obviously never read a word I wrote. I’ve always pointed out the Falcons’ other problems.
MR: Correct. The Elam slide is bizarre, although I know there’s been issues with snapper and holder and the timing. But you’ve got to make those kicks.
Not Likely
November 23rd, 2009
10:41 am
The Falcons no longer control their own destiny to get in the playoffs.. Even if they do win out they’re still not a lock to make it. In 3 more weeks we’ll be looking back at the Carolina game as the game that ruined it all sadly. Besides this team isn’t beating the Eagles or the Saints at home. Oh well, what a disappointing year, hopefully we’ll finish with 9 wins.
Observe & Report
November 23rd, 2009
10:48 am
Falcons will NOT make the playoffs because of their porous defense. In fact, I don’t think they will finish better than 8-8 and will keep the streak alive. I hate to be a Debbie Downer but the secondary is the worst in the NFL! The safeties are too soft and the CB’s can’t cover. In fact, they need to replace every starter in the secondary. TD’s ability to scout and find talent appears to be a myth because all of his picks in the secondary are busts! The entire secondary is made up of special teamers. Weak!!!
Jeff Schultz
November 23rd, 2009
10:53 am
Wow. Playoff poll is running 2-1 against. Guess there’s room on the bandwagon.
JonH
November 23rd, 2009
10:54 am
Hey, from a Giants fan perspective, the Falcons are a pretty solid team.You held Jacobs to 3+ yards / carry and picked apart the D when it counted in a great comeback. The game difference was Eli continually picking on the corners. Tynes, other than the chip shot to win, wasn’t any better than your kicker and your special teams held a very dangerous returner to mediocre yardage. I agree with the poster who wrote that they should have gone for two for the win but that’s easy to say on Monday. Fix your corners and beat the damm iggles.
Arthante Lafleur
November 23rd, 2009
11:01 am
Jeff, you know this is crazy talk–playoffs?!? Am I the only one here who has watched this team for the past two months? We’re 5-5, have lost four of five, have no secondary, no pass rush, no starting RB, and no kicker. We’d have to go 5-1 at the very WORST to sneak into the playoffs. We have yet to beat a quality opponent. Dallas looked like the late-80s 49ers against us, and then proceeded to score 7 points in 8 quarters against GB and WAS. We then got worked over in every facet by a very, very bad Carolina team. How can anyone even hint with a straight face that this team could get to the playoffs?
With two automatic losses remaining on the schedule (Philly and N.O.), we’re already 4-2 at best–which will put us at 9-7 and about three spots back from wild card contention. However, since we can’t win on the road, we probably split w/ Tampa, and very likely lose to the Jets. The realistic prediction is 3-3, maybe 2-4, and retaining the albatross of no back-to-back winning seasons.
I’m a lifelong, die-hard Falcons fan and season ticket holder. Being realistic doesn’t make me a hater or a bad fan. I actually like Mike Smith, and I think Ryan will be okay. With a few big moves in the off-season I think we’re a contender again next year, but the team we have now is very mediocre. I know “anything’s possible in the NFL,” but come on, folks… come on.
I shudder to imagine McNabb’s, Maclin’s, and Jackson’s stat lines against our high school defense. Yikes.
Not Likely
November 23rd, 2009
11:02 am
Jeff I’m still a fan of this team but the Falcons have put themselves in a hole. The Giants and Packers only have to go 3-3 the rest of the way to with the Giants needing help. We have to go 5-1. This isn’t a team capable of going on a run, not with the likes of the Eagles and Saints coming up. Hell we can’t even win a game on the road so wins against the Jets and Tampa Bay aren’t even likely.
When a team loses 4 out of their last 5 games, no wins look easy on paper. This team isn’t capable of beating above average teams but damn sure is capable of losing to average and below average teams.
I’m still on the bandwagon, I love this team but it is what it is. We are what our record says we are and that’s a .500 team and average one.
Bucky Blue hand it to Herschel
November 23rd, 2009
11:14 am
The Falcons will go 5-1 & win a wild card, they played the Saints & Giants as good as you can with a chance to win & hung tough, the injurys have hurt but the schedule now gets easier & they will beat the Eagles & lose to the Saints but win the rest to go 10-6. Douglas was a big loss on returns & probably would have taken Jenkins job by now, you cant blame the draft on Dimitroff, Peria & Moore (1 & 2 picks) went down injured, its part of the game, if we cant beat Tampa Bay twice, Buffalo, & the Jets then ok we dont deserve to make the playoffs, gotta at least win some road games against bad teams!
Reid Adair
November 23rd, 2009
11:18 am
Jeff, don’t worry about the bandwagon. Far too many self-proclaimed Falcons fans climb on and jump off the proverbial bandwagon frequently.
Matt Ryan was drafted for the long term. It wasn’t the intention of Thomas Dimitroff that Ryan would lead this team to the Super Bowl in less than two seasons. Everyone knew up front the defense was going to be a question mark, especially with the lack of experience. The injuries to the drafted defenders haven’t helped either.
This team, overall, is much better than it was in 2006-2007. It’s not even close. I am convinced that with Thomas Dimitroff and company leading the way, they will continue to improve as time goes on. It’s unfortunate that too many people saw last year’s success and automatically assumed that the record would be better and a playoff spot was in the bag. When you consider the situations with the defense, not to mention the stronger schedule, neither of those assumptions were accurate.
Zach
November 23rd, 2009
11:24 am
Jeff,
Elam has to go!
All I'm Saying Is...
November 23rd, 2009
11:25 am
Although I would be happy with back to back winning seasons at this point, Falcons can still make the playoffs but they simply must win on road against Tampa Bay, NY Jets, and at home to Philly and (in my view) New Orleans.
Our lack of defensive talent and/or execution is on Dimitroff and Smith. They made the decisions to cast off the players we got rid of (Grady, Brooking, etc.), to bring in who we did either via the draft or free agency, and to start or play who we have now at cornerback. Clearly, we knew our defensive shortcomings at the end of 2008 season which is why so many changes were made and yet we still had concerns at the conclusion of the 2009 pre-season which have carried over to the regular season.
Matt Ryan has struggled and at times played poorly. While that’s what can happen to a young, 2nd year quarterback, we must acknowledge it and, as a result, install game plans that play to his strengths. Apparently, merely suggesting that Ryan is playing poorly and has been since the 49ers game is foreign to too many especially those on this blog. In my view, we have to honestly admit to the Falcons problems before we can methodically go about solving them. (And no I’m not a Vick fan—just stating what ought to be obvious to all yet infrequently admitted i.e. read Bradley’s apologist post ‘praising’ Ryan for playing well in the second half (something he also did against Carolina so big flippin’ deal)).
Every team has injuries so I don’t want to hear about Harry Douglas or Michael Turner or Norwood etc. and how that has impacted the team so severely that we blow the game against Carolina.
All that typed, if Elam makes his kicks the past two games, we certainly beat Carolina and could have a victory over the stinkin’ Giants.
Going forward, we have to face reality and play the cards we have dealt ourselves. We can still have a winning season and make the playoffs if we:
(a) Develop game plans that keep Ryan in his second-half-of-the-last-two-games comfort zone so he starts and finishes games that way,
(b) Add in a plethora of blitzes and stunts on defense to get some semblance of a pass rush to make up for our lousy cornerback play,
(c) Get Norwood back to reinvigorate the ground game (although Snelling has done great and this area has not been as weak as initially feared when Turner went down),
(d) Figure out what the heck is up with Elam and whether we need to bring in some other kickers (I think we do if for no other reason to make Jason re-earn his job)
LET’S GO FALCONS!
For Real
November 23rd, 2009
11:27 am
McNabb’s, Maclin’s, and Jackson’s stat lines – Now that’s going to be scary.
Offensive Problems:
1. Matt Ryan is playing scared and I do not know why. His feet are never set and he doesn’t have the arm strength to pass that way. Matt needs to get over his love affair with TG or at least stop staring at him.
2. Play calling this year has been strange. Last year I thought MM was the best play caller in the league. Now, I don’t understand what he is trying to accomplish. He rarely has the receiver run slants and skinny post. Everything seems to be a 10 yard curl routs. When was the last time you seen TG on a deep seam rout and when are we going to run a crossing rout.
3. OL is not playing well at all. I think injuries are taking its toll.
4. RW is hurt, you can see he has no burst. MJ (funny MJ) is just not going to be a starting rec in this league. We need to give the young guy a look and play #80 more. Oh and has any of our receiver heard of the term YAC?
Defensive problems:
1. We can’t get pressure on the QB with 4 lineman. Increase the number of time we blitz.
2. CBs if you are up in press coverage get your hands on the receiver. Isn’t that the point of press coverage?
3. Needs to tackle better and quit acting like you making an attempt to tackle. The defense flops more than a NBA team.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 23rd, 2009
11:40 am
IRONY CHECK:
- Falcons made the CHOKE the “New Face” Franchise qb
- Falcons cut Vick
- Eagles sign Vick
- Falcons struggling
- Eagles in driving seat both division & wildcard in sight
- Falcons vs Eagles to determine Falcons season
Just think of the irony. That run by Vick of 35 yards was so fast, I didn’t think it was even 35 yards until the announcers stated it.
The Eagles have handled Vick just right, easing him along, letting him get his legs back. Last night showed his legs are 90 percent back and in 2 weeks, they will be just where he wants to be.
Remember the Minnesota game in 2002?
Remember the Carolina game in 2004?
Interesting Irony……………..
The biggest Irony perhaps will be when he enters the game in the dome, and gets a standing ovation.
Who wants to bet that Andy Reid has promised Vick that he will give him a high dose of plays, because Reid understands how Vick was handled when he played here and the way he was cut.
It’s going to be very interesting…………….
Larry
November 23rd, 2009
11:41 am
Jeff: “Larry, I’m not sure if you’re just trying to provoke a reaction but where does the “poorly coached, poorly prepared” analysis come from?”
Jeff,
Not trying to “provoke” anything. I played enough at three levels (High School, College and two non distinguished years in the pro’s) to have, I believe, a reasonable idea of coaching fundamentals. As I stated, the defensive backs pass coverage–in unison–is the most bizarre I’ve witnessed. When is the last time we’ve seen a defensive back wisely anticipate a certain pass and agressively attempt an interception? They don’t because they’re lost!
On defense, they play the receiver, rarely look for the ball, and amazingly forget or “bust” the coverage leaving an opponent’s best receiver wide open on key third downs. Their defensive line rarely attempts stunts to free up Abraham and seem to blitz or non blitz at the worst time, and, I think, across the board this defense is among the easiest to predict and coach against, especially in critical moments. That’s coaching!
On offense, they are so predictable that 90+& of their plays I can tell you when they will run, pass, or their tendencies after certain downs or previous play yardage. It’s quite easy, unlike the Patriots, The Saints, the Vikings or the Colts. Do you not find it amaizing that the Falson’s will hand the ball to Turner about 80% of the time AFTER a 20+ yard run when he’s winded? That’s coaching!
The there’s the place kicker false starting again to cost them a field goal two weeks in a row. That’s coaching.
Lastly, I think Van Gorder is over his head in the NFL, and I think Mike Smith is a great guy, a hardworking guy, and is fiercely determined, but outwitting a Belechick or Peyton coached team, or a Brady, Manning or Brees quarterbacked offense he will never do!
Where it not for Matt Ryan, this team wouldn’t even be competitive and Matt Ryan (and to a certain degree, Michael Turner) has hidden some coaching deficiencies.
Falcon in KC
November 23rd, 2009
11:42 am
I am disappointed but refuse to give up on this season. Six weeks in the NFL is a long chunk of games and things happen- both ways- good and bad, to all teams. The knee-jerk reactions is to believe all is lost now. No tie-breakers, losing another 2 in a row on the road, etc.
However, things should begin to improve beginning this weekend. The start of the last 4 of 6 at home to close the regular season. And while it is difficult to win all three in a 3-game home cluster in the NFL, it can be done.
Even Chris Berman was talking on Primetime last night about the Falcons having only 2 home games in a 9-week stretch. Just brutal. The NFL is better than that. Get a human being to look over what the computer spits out. And of course playing 4 teams coming off bye weeks. Terrible. What a critical disadvantage.
This team has not gotten many breaks this season. (Not crying at all here- just fact.) They have remained competitive, but have not made the key plays when needed. The lack of pass rush has left the cornerbacks totally naked on the edge. And everybody is right- dead on- about the CBs failing to turn and play the ball when it arrives near the receivers.
The Jenkins drop in the end zone was a killer. The FG misses are crippling. The offense changed some things against the Giants, but still needs more tweaks (QB roll outs and better designed plays-) That will be difficult at this stage of the season in November, but it must be done.It can’t go on like this where Ryan looks downfield and everyone is covered. Mularkey coached the Steelers offense. Please Mike, more designs like the Steelers with routes and receivers & backs in some new spaces on the field. The routes now are too vanilla and predictable- thus coverable.
The Falcons need a little momentum. Hopefully returning home will provide some of that. But players need to make plays. Abe, get yourself off the milk carton, please! We need the changeup back Norwood. Having Finneran as another “comfort zone” underneith receiver for Ryan couldn’t hurt.
Snelling has done a magnicent job with his playing time. But the other backs need to return and produce. And the defense must get off the field more than they have been.
james
November 23rd, 2009
11:42 am
I am dumping my Falcons season tickets faster than Gov’t Motors (GM) stock! Thank you, Stub Hub!
Hillbilly Deluxe
November 23rd, 2009
11:44 am
They need to worry about the 9-7 thing before they think about playoffs. I think this team is still a couple years away but in their defense, at least they don’t quit when they get behind.
ChicagoFalcon
November 23rd, 2009
11:54 am
Jeff, Big fan of your articles. You are a straight shooter, which is great.
Yesterday was another winnable game with missed opportunities. I have not lost hope yet, but it’s slipping. The Falcons should be 8-2 right now if they executed on plays that “good teams” execute on. They are young, I’ll give them that, but this is the NFL. I don’t see any changes coming this season and that scares me.
Go Birds!
Longtime Fan
November 23rd, 2009
12:11 pm
I have been a Falcon fan for many many years. Unfortunately, I am predicting an 8-8 finish. Losses to Eagles and Saints, and one other game which they should win, but dont. Just don’t know if it will be either Tampa or the Jets on the road.
Pamela McGregor
November 23rd, 2009
12:17 pm
Have faith in the Falcons. Remember the Cardinals of 08 who made it to the Super Bowl. How about those Cowboys, and the Steelers and the Bengals? I am a Falcon fan and I will remain so. Mike Smith, you are a classy coach and I love the team for its willingness to go out and play to the last second. Fair weather fans are arm chair quarterbacks; it’s easy to criticize. Why did Mike Strahan have to go to the GIANTS locker room to motivate them? Coach Smith can do it and will do it. GIVE THE FALCONS A BREAK AND MATT RYAN AND THE O TEAM. The D team needs to look at themselves and ante up.
An Observation
November 23rd, 2009
12:18 pm
There has got to be some former CB currently sitting at home that would like to receive a paycheck. Whoever it is can’t be any worst that the Falcons’ current CBs. If I was an offensive coordinator scheming against the Falcons, I’d have my QB throw the ball all day long knowing that the Falcons’ CBs can’t cover anyone consistently. Even the Falcons zone coverage stinks!!!!
Falcon Devil
November 23rd, 2009
12:19 pm
DUMP ELAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Arthante Lafleur
November 23rd, 2009
12:27 pm
Jeff, can you give us an idea as to why Elam is still kicking when he is clearly incapable? Is there some logistical reason we haven’t even tried to sign anyone else to come in and replace him?
What Happened To Elam?
November 23rd, 2009
12:28 pm
I’ve heard that the reason Jason Elam has recently missed FGs is due to a new snapper. What was the excuse for his misses earlier in the season prior to having a new long snapper???? We may be stuck with him for the remainder of this year, but he has to go….he’s washed up and can’t be counted on for long game winning field goals either.
The “D” and Elam are definitely the weakest link this year.
Hopefully the Falcons will win all their remaining home games. GO FALCONS!!!!
David Smith
November 23rd, 2009
12:32 pm
With three other teams with the same record yesterdays game was a must win for us. I believe we will have to win out the rest of our schedule to get a playoff spot but, that will be a tough chore without Michael Turner.
Hollywould
November 23rd, 2009
12:32 pm
For Real, you are dead on. What good is press coverage when you don’t press? These corners must figure that with their speed they can give a receiver a 5 yard start and then turn and run with them. Hell, I believe I could get behind them with a 5 yard head start. Forget about the Eagles. They had better worry about the Bucs. This team is not good enough to overlook anyone.
Done
November 23rd, 2009
1:05 pm
Please accept my letter of resignation effective immediately. I have come to realize that over the past 30+ years of my life no team in Atlanta has brought home a pro championship except for the Atlanta Braves in 1995 and that no team going forward will ever do so again. Year after year we are promised change to your organizations but yet year after year we continue to swallow in the mud of progression. The continued hope that I have had over the years has been meet with equal or more frustration, depression, embarrassment, and lost hope. The amount of stress is not worth the money and time I have spent supporting each team. The Falcons have been in existence since 1966 and have only smelled the Super Bowl once. How pathetic is that? For instance, Miami which was founded in the same year, 1966, has 5 championships. Sorry but the Falcons are just destined to lose. Let’s not forget the Thrashers, founded in 1999, the Thrashers have only seen 1 playoff birth and were swept out of the playoffs. Atlanta Hawks, founded 1968 have NEVER seen the NBA finals as an Atlanta franchise. Of course the Atlanta Braves have a championship and they did win their division 14 straight years so you have to give them prompts. Honestly though, Division championships don’t give a team the right to call themselves a dynasty. The New York Yankees have that right.
So to finalize my resignation I would like to say thank you for taking all my money over the years. Thanks for the continued broken promises and getting my hopes up that possibly we could see something called greatness in Atlanta and thanks for the stress and removal of years of my life for nothing in return. You have mastered one thing though…the art of losing. Atlanta will forever be Loserville and rightfully so.
Sage of Blueland
November 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
Wow, this place stinks to high heaven!
Must be all the sheep!
Flappin' Falcon
November 23rd, 2009
1:15 pm
Good riddance, Done…based on your qualifications you wouldn’t continue to be a fan in 99% of the pro sports towns across the USA.
Not worried in the least about my Falcons. I love my team. The secondary is atrocious but I’ll always support ‘em. This schedule has been ridiculous and easily the most difficult in the NFL (especially when you consider the 4 bye-week rested opponents). Look at the records of our opponents so far (54-46), then look at the record of our road game opponents(38-22).
This team does not give up. You give 4 teams 2 weeks to prepare against us and the whole league has a blueprint on how to play us. Yet we will still make the playoffs this year. We won’t win the Superbowl, but next year this team will be serious contenders.
Go Falcons!
sidslid
November 23rd, 2009
2:33 pm
Local team rankingsw (good week to be off):
GT Football (see above)
Hawks-winning streak ends to undermanned NO. Gives back the lead to Tech
GT Basketball-gelling well after the Dayton loss
Braves (ditto: good week to be off)
Thrashers-starting to lose a lot of close ones. Watch out
Falcons-the streak may be still be with us. May need to beat Saints at home to finish over .500
UGA Football
UGA Basketball
Personality of the week: UGA VII (RIP)
da roosta
November 23rd, 2009
3:41 pm
Quick comment about something else. Am I the only one who saw an illegal man downfield (3 yards)on the Dallas touchdown against Washington? How do you miss that?
Singletary
November 23rd, 2009
5:08 pm
Move Weems to the receiver corps and let Brent Grimes be our returner. He’s good and fast, and doesn’t need to be tall for that role.
Singletary
November 23rd, 2009
5:13 pm
DaRoosta — NFL efs can miss anything, like several face masks by the Giants. On the Cleveland game, they didn’t force a 10 second run off for Stafford’s injury “time out” as they were out of time, and instead solely enforced the “game cannot end on a defensive penalty.” (The fact that ManGenius called a time out which allowed Stafford with a dislocated shoulder to come back in… well, THAT cost Browns the game.
Bucky Blue hand it to Herschel
November 23rd, 2009
5:30 pm
THE MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION IS: WHOS DEFENSE IS WORST, THE DAWGS OR THE FALCONS??? LMAO Both can give up 40 points in a blink of the eye, but the Dawgs will give up over FIFTEE against the Bees this weekend! Bye Bye Willie Martinez, you got to go! Woof Woof
An Observation
November 23rd, 2009
7:15 pm
I totally agree with those who have stated that we all knew going into the season, especially after the pre-season, that the Falcons secondary was REALLY BAD. With that said, I just admit they are worst than I thought they’d be. Houston and Grimes would not be starting for a quality NFL team. We’re stuck with them this year, but hopefully the secondary will be addressed in the off season as well as the place kicker position. It is time for Elam to go too.
I am hoping that the team can win out, but it is starting to appear doubtful. I am still a fan and will continue to be a fan thoughout the remainder of the season. No bandwagon antics for me.
For those of you that don’t like the Falcons, get a life, go support your favorite team on their blogs and leave the AJC Falcons’ blogs for REAL FANS.
GO FALCONS!!!!!
Fair and Balanced
November 23rd, 2009
8:19 pm
How bout the Bucs game is shaping up as a must-win?
Cedrick
November 23rd, 2009
8:26 pm
Hey, as I read some of these comments that are blasting Abraham. The guy is playing the defense being called in by Vangorder and right not Vangorder has Abe dropping back into a zone instead of rushing the passer. Then vary rarely does Vangorder blitz even though our DBs seem to always be locked up man to man. All of these thing have contributed to the downfall of Abe.
Derek10
November 23rd, 2009
8:52 pm
Guys, lets have some faith in our Falcons here! Green Bay just lost Al Harris and Aaron Kampman for the season. They play Baltimore (away), pittsburgh (away) and arizona (away) all before the season is over. Philly is looking weaker each week and barely pulled it off against a less than average Bears squad. Plus the Giants and Eagles will knock eachother off before the season ends( it always happens!). We will get Norwood and Turner back before the Philly game, and we have the next 4 out of 6 games at home!! We just have to beat either Philly or the Saints. Focus on it week by week and sneak up on the Playoffs like we did last year! Remember, Tampa Bay was 9-3 and then lost thier next 4 games last year!! Matt Ryan is back on track, but our defense needs to make that key stop. Its like Roddy White said, “The Playoffs start sunday against Tampa!! LETS DO THIS!!!
Doyle Hargraves
November 23rd, 2009
11:06 pm
Thank God we have good safeties. If those guys go down, this team is dead. What would you do if you were the opposing team? All you have to do is give us a steady diet of long passes down the sideline. Has this team EVER had consistent CB play on both sides for ONE season? Hate to say it but Foxworth was better than any of these clowns.
And what is up with the picture on this article? Karl told me that the Bible says two men ought not lay together. They’re standing up but it still makes me feel funny.
LLYFF
Jeff Schultz
November 24th, 2009
7:53 am
Arthante Lafleur — I agree Falcons have their work cut out for them, but I wouldn’t assume the Philadelphia and New Orleans games are automatic losses. Eagles are missing Westbrook. Saints’ defense is average.