An early look at NFC’s Super Bowl picks: Falcons are No. 2
A slimmer Michael Turner and more experienced Matt Ryan could be primed for a Super Bowl run.
If a certain quarterback from Kiln, Miss. — who remains one of the NFL’s all-time leaders in touchdowns, yards and vogueing — doesn’t play this season, the Minnesota Vikings will drop from being a Super Bowl contender to just a playoff team (maybe).
I’ll avoid typing the quarterback’s name because I understand we’re all at our limit, and have been since the Drama King’s first heart-wrenching, tearful, yes-I-really-mean-it-this-time goodbye press conference in 2008.
Loading ...But the potential ripple effect in the NFL from his retirement can’t be overstated. Here are the absolute five NFC teams that can go to the Super Bowl this season. I know this for a fact because I think even had former Falcons great Jeff Van Note convinced of my top five during our conversation at Falcons’ practice Wednesday. Either that or he was just worn down by the 217-degree temperatures or I was starting to hallucinate.
The NFC’s top five teams (assuming the diva retires).
♦ 1. GREEN BAY: It’s easy to forget Aaron Rodgers was in only his second year as a starter, yet he threw for 30 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. The Packers are also strong on defense. So what happened last season? They lost twice to the Vikings, which was the difference in them having home field in the playoffs. They had to travel to Arizona and lost a bizarre game that was closer to pinball than football — 51-45 in overtime. They won’t have to worry about Kurt Warner (five touchdowns) if they play again.
♦ 2. FALCONS: I know what you’re thinking: a little high. (The team, not me.) But no (to both). First of all, I think you can rank these five teams in almost any order. Here’s what stands out to me: The defense will be significantly improved. It will be more aggressive and get burned less often, given the additions of cornerback Dunta Robinson and linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, as well as the return of defensive tackle Peria Jerry and safety William Moore from season-ending injuries. (The team’s broadcaster, Wes Durham, had a great analogy: Jerry and Moore are like redshirt freshmen.) The offense will benefit from Matt Ryan being in his third year, when young quarterbacks often take a big step up, and a more motivated running back, Michael Turner, who is in far better condition than a year ago.
♦ 3. DALLAS: Tony Romo got a lot better last year when Terrell Owens wasn’t in the huddle. Probably not a coincidence. Dez Bryant will either turn into one of the NFL’s greatest receivers or be a complete grease fire. The Cowboys have talent, but they also have weaknesses. The pass defense was surprisingly average statistically (20th overall) despite two Pro Bowl cornerbacks (Mike Jenkins and Terence Newman). I also question whether Keith Brooking can again play at the level he did a year ago. Also, something is wrong when a team this talented gets absolutely bulldozed in the second round by Minnesota (34-3). That shows a possible lack of mental toughness, an indictment of coach Wade Phillips.
♦ 4. NEW ORLEANS: It’s difficult to criticize a team that just won the Super Bowl. But it’s noteworthy that no NFC South champion ever has successfully defended its division title. As for the league title, the run through the Super Bowl and the parties that follow can wear mentally on players. The offseason is shorter. It’s difficult to recapture the same fire and chemistry. Opponents are all suddenly gunning for you. A lot of things went right for the Saints last season. They’re still very good, but logic says they’re just not going to be great again.
♦ 5. NEW YORK:The Giants won their first five games last season and then forgot how to stop anybody. They went 3-8 down the stretch, allowing 40 or more points five times. They’ll be better this season. They signed free agent safety Antrel Rolle for $37 million and added veteran safety, Deon Grant. A number of the pieces from the Super Bowl team three years ago are still in place.
So there’s my top five in the conference. What do you think? Am I overrating the Falcons or do you agree?
♦
NEXT POST: Rookie Sean Weatherspoon. If other NFL scouts considered him such a loudmouth and borderline obnoxious, why are the Falcons so high on him? I think you’ll enjoy the comments from general manager Thomas Dimitroff, Weatherspoon and teammates.
UPDATE: Here’s the link to the Weatherspoon column.
♦
Recent posts
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♦ Braves trying to keep it going with team of moving parts
♦ Favre’s retirement (really? finally?) is opening for Falcons
♦ How long can Braves keep extending Troy Glaus’s lifeline?
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119 comments Add your comment
robertussen
August 4th, 2010
11:19 pm
we’re looking like a real contender
cattle dawg
August 4th, 2010
11:20 pm
hello jeff
cattle dawg
August 4th, 2010
11:23 pm
Its the Cowboys year.. Romo will finally break through , and be a top tier qb.
Willy
August 4th, 2010
11:24 pm
When are you or Mark NOT writing a column?
robertussen
August 4th, 2010
11:27 pm
no its not
cattle dawg
August 4th, 2010
11:29 pm
Is it just me or does mat ryan look kinda special in that picture? I do worry bout brooking at lb this year. Im not sure if he can keep up the bizarro brooking from last year.
JJ
August 4th, 2010
11:36 pm
Jeff had a long break a few weeks ago, but yeah they spend 24/7 on the AJC
david
August 5th, 2010
12:12 am
217 degrees–wimpy–come out here to the AZ where its 116 for real and see what you get. yeah, its a dry heat–like an oven
Jimmy
August 5th, 2010
12:47 am
Yes, Mark and Jeff do spend a lot of time on these blogs.
I think they either have no life…or they want to get paid.
Maybe both.
Jimmy
August 5th, 2010
12:55 am
In years past, I’ve been burned badly every time I pick the Falcons as contenders.
They’d win one year and I’d say, “Man, we’re on our way up! Perennial Super Bowl contenders!”
Then they would fail to have a winning season the following year.
But this year…this is our first year after the curse!
We have had two back to back winning seasons!
This is a new day!
So I will make a bold prediction….
Drum roll please…
The Birds will play football this year!
What can I say…I’ve been conditioned…like Pavlov’s dog.
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Eric
August 5th, 2010
1:06 am
The Falcons certainly have never had as good a look at a title going in as they do this year. I feel like if they don’t make it in the next two to three then they may never make it….
bg3003
August 5th, 2010
4:21 am
12-4+good team and coaches – curse \ injuries x anything < (or equal to) a mediocre defense = super bowl champions!!!! c'mon ppl this is 1st grade math!!! (or 5th grade english who knows!) lol
Benjamin
August 5th, 2010
5:52 am
I think you’re overrating our Falcons, but man, I hope you’re right.
FalconUGAFan
August 5th, 2010
5:53 am
I’m inclined to say that are a bit high. We are banking on alot of things going our way. People staying healthy (which never happens) and we don’t have the guys to step up in all areas to fill in. But it would be nice. Realistically I think the order is thus.
1. Green Bay (Duh)
2. Dallas (Romo is improving and they did go to 2nd round)
3. New Orleans (Hard to count out anyone led by Brees and Payton)
4. Atlanta (Improving but still needs a little more time)
5. New York (This is essentially the same squad that won SB in 07, might sneak up on folks)
dz01
August 5th, 2010
6:49 am
Super Bowl? Not, I hope we make the playoffs.
saintsfan
August 5th, 2010
6:52 am
Wow!!!! wishful thinking. One thing is for certain you guys have big dreams.
Karl
August 5th, 2010
6:58 am
If everyone stays healthy (which is the key) they have a real shot at the NFC title. Personally, I think Matt Ryan is going to have a monster year – just a hunch.
Coach
August 5th, 2010
7:13 am
You guys do this every year, what are you doing, trying to sell newspapers or season tickets, either way you always go overboard with your hometown predictions. Now, lest be just a little realistic for just a moment.
No NFL Team is going to cooperate with your predictions, therefore, I hope none of the Falcon Players read your article because the last time I checked the Falcons did not even win the NFC South or even make the playoffs. So lets start by wishing they play well within the division and compete well with the 2 other divisions they are scheduled to play. If they can beat New Orleans both games during the regular season then that would mean they can win the NFC South.
The second season known as the playoffs presents even greater challenges, therefore, they will again have to play exceptional well every week to make it to the NFC Championship Game and then ultimately the Super Bowl.
Super Bowls are not won in the Press, therefore, lets just settle down for a moment and win the NFC South 1st and besides all teams look good during the first week of practice and get hometown cooking from the local press. Just think, your predictions change too much for me to actually take you serious.
Junkndatrunk
August 5th, 2010
7:14 am
Go Falcons!!!
My View
August 5th, 2010
7:15 am
I think the skins should replace the giants. If their offensive line improves Shanahan and McNabb will pay great dividends. Also the Vikes should be no.1 because “Diva” will show up two weeks before kickoff.
ormewood
August 5th, 2010
7:16 am
Falcons might be about right. Giants at #5 are too high. I would go with Vikings at that spot, even without Favre. With Favre, maybe fourth.
Dr. Warren
August 5th, 2010
7:20 am
10-6. I think Ryan is a bigger question mark than everyone thinks. This year will tell us the true story.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
August 5th, 2010
7:24 am
Me thinks the Falcons have a great shot at the SB barring severe injuries. Schedule plays into our favor and we have all of our returning starters on offense coming back, including Douglas.
Tracy
August 5th, 2010
7:41 am
One problem with this.. You have to beat the Saints to get there. Good luck with that.
Matt the Brave
August 5th, 2010
7:42 am
Last year, the only thing that I wanted out of these Falcons was to win 9 games. They did that. This time, I just want them to make the playoffs and hopefully win one of those games when they get there. I still think that we’re one season away from the Super Bowl, but I’d be very happy if they made it all the way this year!
Raj
August 5th, 2010
7:44 am
Jeff
Is this really your own list or did you take John Clayton’s list in espn.com and just changed it up a little to give your own flavor to the column?
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=5434060
Truth teller!!!
August 5th, 2010
8:04 am
Falcons fans have lost their DAMN MINDS!!!! And Jeff Schultz must have been riding in the car smoking with Babinauex if he thinks the Birds are that good!!!
Mikey in the SAV
August 5th, 2010
8:09 am
1- Vikings ( with the Diva )
2- Saints
3- Cowboys
4- Packers
5- Falcons
6- G-Men
7- Skins
8- Eagles
9- 49ers
10- Panthers
robertussen
August 5th, 2010
8:16 am
as raj stated, jeff isn’t the only one that thinks the falcons are one of top teams in the nfc and the nfl. lots of people are high on the falcons and matt ryan having a stellar year.
Sports Review
August 5th, 2010
8:17 am
[...] An early look at NFC's Super Bowl picks: Falcons are No. 2Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog)Which of these NFC teams will reach the Super Bowl? But the potential ripple effect in the NFL from his retirement can't be overstated. …NFC South Wednesday Wrap Up: Watch Saints Front SevenFanHouse [...]
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
8:18 am
Falcon in the superbowl? I don’t think so,lets not forget this is the state of Ga were no sports team is good.
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
8:22 am
It took peyton manning the best QB probably of all time 10 years to do it and people have the nerve to think ryan can do better? @robertussen,your right a lot of people is HIGH speaking of the falcons so they need to puff puff pass the deception.
mountain_jim
August 5th, 2010
8:23 am
I forsee an NFC champ game with Atlanta vs Dallas, with Atlanta crushing Dallas to finally pay them back for that 78 collapse game.
Crazy-A Falcon Fan
August 5th, 2010
8:23 am
Atlanta at # 2 is definitely a homer pick. Green Bay and New Orleans belong with the remaining teams you picked as well as the rest of the NFC as long-shots. Turner weight loss will cost the team some yards. I don’t see him banging like his first year. He has no viable backup. It’s not a good sign that our over-paid free-agent signee, Dunta Robinson, has a early hamstring injury. Why do the Falcon’s still have Finneran on the team. I could go on and on, but because I have a job and life I don’t have time to write a dissertation to support my claim.
bigeasy830
August 5th, 2010
8:27 am
Great post Dr. Warren. This year will tell if Matt Ryan is as good as he is hyped up to be. And, if he is then the falcons will be contenders. I still believe you all needed another WR and a better back up RB and i am still not sold on your pass rush. If Ryan have a great season and if your pass rush is goos then the Falcons may go 12-4, but I believe matt Ryan is not that good and your pass rush will suck and you gave too much money to a CB that did not have one INT last year, therfore 6-10 for 2010. My Steelers will crush you in game one, Carolina and New oreleans will sweep you and the Beangals will embarass them.
Ted Striker
August 5th, 2010
8:35 am
I need to pictures of cheerleaders before I can validate your rankings. You never write, you never call, you never send pix of Megan Fox in compromising situations.
robertussen
August 5th, 2010
8:44 am
well elvis they can pass it this way for the victory celebration. by the way, didnt you die on a crapper. i think the smell is getting to you if you can’t see this team has a real shot.
buckblue
August 5th, 2010
8:46 am
Next thing you are going to predict is that the Kentucky Wildcats will win the SEC and play for the CFB National Championship?
2 Words……DREW BREES
Come on Elvis
August 5th, 2010
9:06 am
well, maybe Matt Ryan doesn’t have to be a playoff choker like Manning. History does tell you that his numbers(Manning) are very average in the playoffs. As I can recall, Eli Manning, Roethlisberger, and numerous others have done it quicker than the so-called best QB.
Kashi
August 5th, 2010
9:07 am
ITS TIME TO BRING CHAMPIONSHIP TO ATLATNA AFTER A LONG DROUGHT
The Bees Nees
August 5th, 2010
9:14 am
Where is the Countdown this week?
Doubters
August 5th, 2010
9:14 am
You mean to tell me that you don’t think the Falcons have a shot of beating the Saints? I mean last year the Saints won both games by a combined total of 11 points. An eight point loss in NO and a 3 point loss in ATL. To me, that sounds like they played with the all-world team even though the Falcons defense wasn’t even that good last year. So, imagine an improved defense and offense.
by the way
August 5th, 2010
9:16 am
The Vikings were a 10 win team the year before Favre and still are a threat with or without him because they have something that most teams don’t have. A devastating pass rush that can cause havoc to a lot of QB.
Clay
August 5th, 2010
9:20 am
cattle dawg, I don’t think the Cowboys will win the NFC with Tony Romo, who is “top tier” in pay only. I don’t dislike him, but just feel sorry for him in playoff games.
The bigger the game, the more he shrinks.
letigre
August 5th, 2010
9:25 am
Do you expect this “homer” poll to reflect anything but the Falcons as favorites? If you do, then your world is very, very small.
PMC
August 5th, 2010
9:25 am
Did the Packers do much to improve that line? They are going to get Rogers killed if they aren’t careful.
Purple people
August 5th, 2010
9:34 am
Minn will still beat the pack again. And win the NFC
BigTimeTECHFan
August 5th, 2010
9:55 am
1. Falcons
2. Bears
3. Eagles
4. Cowboys
5. Saints
Clay
August 5th, 2010
10:03 am
I’m with Dr Warren. Ryan was less than average last season. Sophomore jinx? Don’t know if he was the problem, or the play-calling.
Hopefully, if Turner and Harry Douglas get back to form, and somebody replaces Jenkins, who cannot be depended on, maybe Ryan gets better.
Paul in RDU
August 5th, 2010
10:06 am
I think the Falcons are rated a little high here. Only reason for dropping the Saints below the Falcons is the “it’s hard to repeat factor”.
Jeff – I think you need to redo your order taking into account that the Diva will be playing for the Vikings. He’s already setting the stage.
http://www.sunherald.com/2010/08/04/2383248/favre-will-play-if-health-allows.html
Clay
August 5th, 2010
10:06 am
Come on Purple people, with Tavaris Jackson at QB? Ha!
Grady Jackson *Barber Shop*
August 5th, 2010
10:11 am
The Dallas Cowboys will be lucky
…………………… if they end up 9-7.
.
.
Go Falcons !
—————
archangeladidas
August 5th, 2010
10:27 am
Why not just say the falcons will go 16-0 and win the Super Bowl. BREAK UP THE BUCS!!!
Hillbilly Deluxe
August 5th, 2010
10:38 am
I’ll avoid typing the quarterback’s name because I understand we’re all at our limit, and have been since the Drama King’s first heart-wrenching, tearful, yes-I-really-mean-it-this-time goodbye press conference in 2008.
Maybe Favre isn’t the only Drama King.
drmondo
August 5th, 2010
10:45 am
It’s not a “homer poll”. Take a look on espn.com and you’ll see a few experts picking the Falcons 1 or 2 in the NFC. As a long-time fan, I’m sceptical of picking them to win it all…heck, they’ve broken my heart for more than 3 decades. This year could be different. The organization, from owner down to the waterboy is better than its ever been. The team has talent. The schedule isn’t a killer. Every superbowl team needs a little luck so if the Falcons can stay healthy they could go all the way. It would be great revenge if we won the superbowl in Dallas while the Cowgirls watch from the stands…
drmondo
August 5th, 2010
10:52 am
Has anyone heard if ATL is interested in Aaron Schobel? He would address our problems on the DL and allow Beer-man and Sidbury to learn from two great DEs.
gadawgfan0711
August 5th, 2010
11:00 am
1) Vikings
Giants
2) Falcons
3) Cowboys
4) Saints
5) Packers
6) 49ers
7) Bears
9) Panthers
10) Cardinals
Coop
August 5th, 2010
11:08 am
With our schedule and the improvement in personnel, we should easily win 10 games and could realistically win 12 or 13. Some of our toughest challenges are outside the NFC (Baltimore, Cincy). This team has a legit shot to win the South and have a first round bye. It is not at all implausible to see these guys playing the Cowboys or Green Bay for a shot a the big game. In ATL they beat either team. They’d beat Dallas on the road as well. GB in GB for the NFC crown would be too much. The Saints were a great story, but you can take 9 wins or less to the bank. They’ll be lucky to get a WC slot.
Blue Fender
August 5th, 2010
11:14 am
Preseason rankings are total crap. I think last year everyone was picking Chicago to be in the Super Bowl and the Saints were in the middle-bottom of the pack. The games still have to be played, dammit!
F-105 Thunderchief
August 5th, 2010
11:46 am
I think the Saints are No. 1, Falcons around 3-4.
KAPPELLMEISTER
August 5th, 2010
11:58 am
Jeff – FYI, assuming you did mean to insult ‘the voguish one’ quite that much, “diva” is feminine and “divo” masculine. I mean, you at least gotta admit the man is a man’s man (department of redundancy department)…
Falcon Jim
August 5th, 2010
12:04 pm
Do the Falcons have any weak areas now? We upgraded the defensive backfield and linebacker. I guess the D-line is the question, still, but maybe with Jerry back and the rookie, it will be O.K.
Sage of Bluesland
August 5th, 2010
12:06 pm
“…I also question whether Keith Brooking can again play at the level he did a year ago….”
Oh my goodness, Jeff–you actually think that our former Hometown Hero has anything to do with the success of that team??? That is ridiculous, as he’s nothing more than a rah-rah cheerleader on that team…
He was a fraud here (based on the propaganda, salary, and the lack of impact plays and real leadership)–and a joke there…well, unless you actually think the pre-game “pep” yelling means anything…or the ankle-grabs eight yards downfield…
Some things never change, I guess? (and some sheep will continue to defend the indefensible, too!)
Dr. Warren
August 5th, 2010
12:07 pm
Here’s my reasoning about Ryan potentially being just decent-to-good but not great: it seems he is overly conscious of being like Manning and giving that impression. I think the great ones just are, without the earnestness–of course they work at, but their work ethic and positive attitude don’t take center stage over their God-given, once-in-a-blue-moon talent. Ryan’s arm seemed a bit flat to me last year, and something about him, to me, lacks a killer instinct the great ones have. That’s my two-cents. And if I am right, we can forget about runs deep into the playoffs, because as much as I’d love to be wrong, the Birds aren’t strong enough defensively to win big without a real superstar at QB.
Falcon Jim
August 5th, 2010
12:07 pm
I don’t think the Falcons schedule is as lite as folks are saying.
GT BABY
August 5th, 2010
12:10 pm
Im sure the UGA fans would rank their team first if they were in the NFL…. UGA people major in optimism!
Oliver
August 5th, 2010
12:14 pm
hai odata
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August 5th, 2010
12:15 pm
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FAlcon Phil
August 5th, 2010
12:17 pm
If the falcon’s D comes through, they should win the NFC easily—no other team can match the roster’s talent. New Orleans got lucky last year and lost some key players. Mark it down: Falcons v. San Diego in the super bowl.
phoenix falcon
August 5th, 2010
12:26 pm
don’t forget about the Cards out here in the valley of the sun, the defense will be better with Joey Porter and Kerry Rhodes, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is one of the best corners in football. Dan Williams will be a monster at nose tackle, Gerald Hayes, Darnell Dockett etc….. then you go to the other side of the ball, the offensive line is better with the addition of pro bowler Alan Faneca, who allowed 0 sacks last year, that means the running game will be better, Beanie Wells should take over the starting job from Tim Hightower, Larry Fitzgerald will do his thing, Steve Breaston and Early Doucet will both move up one spot to No’s 2 and 3 receivers, Breaston took over for bolden in 2008 when bolden almost got decapitated, and went for 1,000 yards receiving. this cards team ( imo ) will be better then the team that went to the super bowl. I’m a Falcon fan 1st, but i really like this cards team, i think D. Anderson will end up being the QB of this team, Matt Leinart scares me, i just don’t trust him to make the right reads, he always seems jumpy out there, even in training camp, he’s the REAL happy feet.
willdave
August 5th, 2010
12:27 pm
Jeff, I am a lifelong, diehard Falcons fan. So being truly objective about the home team is very difficult for me.
That said, however, I really do agree with you that Atlanta is a legitimate SB contender this year. After purging the mess they inherited, Smitty and TD have added nothing but quality players since then. Now, in the third year of this new regime, the Falcons truly present one of the most talent-laden rosters in the league. I simply cannot imagine their not being in the run for a championship this season, barring an excess of debilitating injuries to key players.
I’m ready for some football! Go Falcons!
PMC
August 5th, 2010
12:28 pm
Dr Warren. You make some good points. However, when you examine guys like Drew Brees or Tom Brady or Joe Montana… They make thier living on timing, grasp of the offense and putting other players in the positions they need to succede rather than physically domninating people. Ryan doesn’t have the tools of Brett Farve or Peyton Manning but he can beat people by throwing the ball to the right place at the right time. He doesn’t have the arm strength to zip it in late like some QB’s. He has to be mentally faster at reading the defense than a Brett Farve because he doesn’t have a cannon arm. It might not be a 70 yard bomb over the defense that goes for a score, in his case they will throw a few deep balls to loosen the underneath routes but as Drew Brees has proven in the past year a 7 yard slant route can be deadly.
ChippersLoveChild
August 5th, 2010
12:48 pm
“If the falcon’s D comes through, they should win the NFC easily—no other team can match the roster’s talent. New Orleans got lucky last year and lost some key players. Mark it down: Falcons v. San Diego in the super bowl.”
Seriously? I don’t think they have that much talent on D… and I’d at least take the Saints, Packers, and Cowboys offense over theirs… Everyone talks about the vaunted Falcons Offense, but I don’t think it is even close to being on par with those other three teams.
Blade
August 5th, 2010
12:56 pm
Really…I understand you want access to the team but do you really think anyone in the whole U.S.A., thinks the Falcons will go to the Super bowl? I and everyone else would really respect you, if you just kept it real. Of course everyone has a chance but your’re putting 1 team ahead of them as having a legitimate chance of making to the super bowl. They will be happy to win 9 this year. They may get 1 more because of the soft schedule (21st).
BravesFan79
August 5th, 2010
12:59 pm
Green Bay… the best team in the NFC?? Yall need to stop smoking that sht! GB will NEVER beat Minn as long as Farve is the QB! Go Falcons, Go Vikings!
BravesFan79
August 5th, 2010
1:00 pm
Did everyone see this awsome video!? White UFC fighter knocks out Black dude that hit blond.
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Reid Adair
August 5th, 2010
1:13 pm
The Cowboys will stumble as usual, and I don’t see the Saints getting the breaks they got through the 2009 season; they’ve also lost some key pieces from last year’s team.
That being said, I am excited about 2010 for the Falcons.
keith
August 5th, 2010
1:20 pm
I love this pre-season speculations…makes it fun!!
Even though I don’t think we can pick anyone else but the Saints…even though I know we almost beat them twice last year, and we’re definitely improved this year.
I’d put the Falcons about the 3rd or 4th best team in the NFC.
ATL Observer
August 5th, 2010
1:33 pm
Can’t agree with Green Bay as the favorite but then again, that’s assuming Favre doesn’t come back. And even if he doesn’t, it’s not like Minnesota suddenly transforms into the Lions…who knows? Maybe Jackson comes out better than he was in the pre-Favre days.
I like the Falcons to win the division. For whatever reason, it’s tough to repeat as South champs. Whatever happens after that is a crapshoot.
Larry
August 5th, 2010
2:02 pm
“It’s difficult to criticize a team that just won the Super Bowl. But it’s noteworthy that no NFC South champion ever has successfully defended its division title.”
True, and I hope you’re right. However, it also true no NFC South champion has had a Drew Brees, and when you look at consecutive winners they all have one thing in common: an elite QB like a Brady, Manning and yes, a Brees. The Saints may not win it, but there’s not a chance of them being complacent or satisfied with Brees in their huddle. He’s the consummate leader!
And I’m a Falcon fan, by the way!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 5th, 2010
2:10 pm
Jeff what are you smoking? What have the Falcons done that would leap frog them over the Saints/Vikings/Eagles/Giants/Redskins/Cowboys or even the Bears and Niners?
All of those teams have improved on the off season, yet the Falcons only paid 50 million for an injury prone cb who they didn’t have to fight to sign. The Texans didn’t even put up a fight to re-sign him.
Peter King just toured the camps and made this statement:
“Michael Turner better stay healthy or the Falcons are in big trouble.”
That’s not a very flattering statement for the 72-million dollar noodle arm.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 5th, 2010
2:20 pm
Here are guaranteed loses right away:
Green Bay
Steelers
Ravens
Bengals
Eagles
Arizona
Saints x 2
Panthers (at least once)
Probable losses:
Bucs (if choke….well ….. CHOKES)
Niners
As long as CHOKE is behind center this team will be saying “he is still young and improving”.
Meanwhile, Flacco (The true ROY in 2008) will be playing in the superbowl and you guys can keep using that same tired excuse…….
- “With that defense, anybody could win”
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 5th, 2010
2:22 pm
Larry
August 5th, 2010
2:02 pm
“It’s difficult to criticize a team that just won the Super Bowl. But it’s noteworthy that no NFC South champion ever has successfully defended its division title.”
——————————————————–
It’s also noteworthy that the 2008 Falcons were the 1st NFC South team to no go “worst to first”.
So much for patterns
PMC
August 5th, 2010
2:31 pm
Choke, wouldn’t you just hate Flacco if he were here instead of Ryan?
Isn’t this mostly about someone else?
NOLA
August 5th, 2010
2:33 pm
You Lie Jeff Schultz. You Lie.
PMC
August 5th, 2010
2:34 pm
Also, “Choke” would imply that he’s really good and he fails in important situations repeatedly.
I think Matt “Fail” Ryan would be a better name really since you think he is terrible.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 5th, 2010
2:38 pm
PMC
August 5th, 2010
2:34 pm
Also, “Choke” would imply that he’s really good and he fails in important situations repeatedly.
I think Matt “Fail” Ryan would be a better name really since you think he is terrible.
——————————————————-
I didn’t give him the title – he earned it
Considering he is in the record book as the only starting qb that didn’t go “worst-to-first” in the NFC South.
Should have drafted Flacco – I told ya so…..
Idot
August 5th, 2010
2:52 pm
Wasn’t Drew Brees the saints QB in 2008 when they finished 8-8?
Sage of Bluesland
August 5th, 2010
2:52 pm
“…I also question whether Keith Brooking can again play at the level he did a year ago….”
Come on, Jeff–I can’t believe what I just read (above). Our former, fraudulent, Hometown Hero has as much impact on how the Cowboys will do as a butterfly flapping their wings in Japan!
Wait a minute–unless it comes down to covering the tight end in the final minutes of a playoff game?…or in actually making an impact play FOR his team…
I’m just glad that particular fraud isn’t here anymore….Addition by subtraction and all…I saw the ancient Peterson have a more positive “impact” (in more ways than just community service, feel-good tripe) in a few games than good ol’ Keith had in five years….
Idot
August 5th, 2010
2:54 pm
All these saints fans, and a lot of these people that call themselves Falcon fans, talk as if Drew Brees can walk on water. He can’t.
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
2:56 pm
@robertussen,Im alive like tupac quiet as kept,i flew to mars and set up camp.Me and tupac will work on songs then come back to earth and have a concert in the superbowl at halftime and guess what? it won’t be this sorry team they call the falcons playing in it.Thankya very muuuch!! puff puff paaaaass the deception.
Idot
August 5th, 2010
2:57 pm
Drew Brees had a career year, along with a few of his recievers, that also had career years. It won’t happen in the year 2010.
Idot
August 5th, 2010
3:02 pm
Drew Brees, and the NFL referees carried the saints in 2009.
The NFL and their referees have given the saints, all that they are going to get from them.
If Brees gets hurt, the saints are sunk.
But the saints aren’t going to the playoffs in 2010, regardless.
Idot
August 5th, 2010
3:05 pm
Shultz and all the other so-called experts, have the saints way overrated.
The saints will be fortunate if they end the season at 8-8.
The saints will probably wind up going 5-11, if they are lucky.
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
3:16 pm
@Idot you mentioned the saints(Im definately not a saints fan)are sunk if brees get hurt so what do you say about the falcons if ryan gets hurt? because blueman(redman)and charles peter paul david parker jr are wickedy wickedy WACK!!!
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
3:18 pm
I also give the noodle man(ryan) 20 picks this season.
Mike Franklin
August 5th, 2010
4:26 pm
All things being equal… though they are not, I like the Falcs because they’ve had a year to grow a new D and marinade the O. If the birds can’t score in the red zone this year, or prevent opponents from that little feat, then there won’t be a lot of excuses that will hold water.
I’m betting that excuses will not be required.
Will
August 5th, 2010
4:33 pm
Big Easy- “Your” Steelers suck. Leftwich sucks!
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
6:24 pm
Who thought of this sorry rise up theme? its super carney and boring.There gonna rise up alrighty,rise up there belongings come playoff time when there clearing out there lockers going home.Ill call blank and tell him the teams new theme and thats WAIT TIL NEXT YEAR,something i have been hearing since 1966.Keep the tissue close lil buddy.
Elvisinthehouse
August 5th, 2010
6:25 pm
Thankya very muuuch!!!
DJ Sniper
August 5th, 2010
6:33 pm
I see Choke and his particular brand of logic(and I use that term loosely) have returned. Let’s see how he twists up stats and what not to try and make his points. I still wonder what he was smoking when he called Matt Ryan a bust simply because he lost his first playoff game. I guess he didn’t realize that plenty of other great QB’s lost several playoff games before getting a win.
DJ Sniper
August 5th, 2010
6:55 pm
I just saw another one of Choke’s retarded statements. So now Matt Ryan is a failure simply because he hasn’t taken the Falcons from worst to first in one season? Man, what is this dude smoking?
Falcons’ Weatherspoon showing he’s not empty noise | Jeff Schultz
August 5th, 2010
7:06 pm
[...] ♦ An early look at NFC’s Super Bowl picks: Falcons are No. 2 [...]
truth
August 5th, 2010
9:45 pm
Elvis, It’s time to leave the D**N building.
Since 1980....
August 5th, 2010
10:10 pm
Playoffs…yes! Superbowl contender…..maybe! Will they make it…..no!
Jeff
August 5th, 2010
10:13 pm
who dat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nubianman
August 5th, 2010
10:21 pm
Only an idiot would think the Atlanta Falcons has a chance of reaching the Super Bowl. Apparently you people know absolutely nothing about professional football. I strongly doubt that the Atlanta Falcons will reach the playoffs.
Wake up people!!!!!
craig
August 5th, 2010
10:37 pm
Your such a homer!!! Falcons the second best please.. can we have are line up..
BG
August 5th, 2010
10:51 pm
I’m a Cowboys fan, but the team was exposed against the Vikings. They went into the playoffs hot, but the glaring issue from the Viks game: no blocking for Romo, and they let Favre run all over them. Get a stronger offensive line, and get the D to pressure QBs more (that was a HUGE problem all season), and they can get over that hump.
The road still goes through the Saints IMO.
Eric Hinske goes bald -- and then goes deep -- in Braves' win | Jeff Schultz
August 5th, 2010
11:26 pm
[...] ♦ An early look at NFC’s Super Bowl picks: Falcons are No. 2 [...]
Saints Fan
August 5th, 2010
11:50 pm
Maybe I missed something. Other teams are watching film and gunning for the Saints? Didn’t the Saints have the best offense the last 3 out of 4 years? Were they not watching film then either?
One more critical stat. Did you know that the Saints led the NFL (YES, the NFL) in players on injured reserve each of the last two years? Go figure. And you thought the Falcons had it rough? The Saints started the season without their starting left tackle, starting nose tackle, two fourth round picks, etc. That’s not to mention they played the Falcons one game without Reggie Bush and two games without Scott Fujita, and without one of their starting corner backs in the 2nd game. Not to mention Lance Moore led the Saints in receptions the year before and missed all but 4 games last year (3 were in the playoffs).
The Falcons cannot compete with New Orleans. Getting fired up and adrenaline can only run for so long. The Falcons have a very good chance of starting 0-3.
mikey
August 6th, 2010
12:04 am
why doesn’t anyone like the saints? They just won the super-bowl and dominated last season, what am i missing?
ej
August 6th, 2010
12:51 am
Your high, as your picks. I love the falcons, but we still need work, and a lot of luck. The saints won’t run like last year, thats true, but GB has a good team,dallas much as I hate them, will be in the playoffs. Look for the Giants to rebound. Falcons need proven pass rush, and running game to set up play action for Ryan. Be consistent and beat teams you should beat.
PappyHappy
August 6th, 2010
3:53 am
Falcons kickoff cannot come soon enough. It has been a LONG SPRING AND SUMMER!
veasey
August 6th, 2010
4:27 am
Pressure does two things, bust pipes and makes diamonds…Tony romo’s not lookin to shiny to me.
Mike
August 8th, 2010
6:51 am
So much hate on the Saints here. Problem with that is they won the last Super Bowl. I guess the Atlanta fans and the Falconettes do not remember watching the game from home. As for the local football experts, you know those who write silly articles, those who coach from the chair or sofa in front of the big screen, those who will share all their football knowledge anytime and anywhere, how about waiting until this Atlanta team has won maybe more than 5 games before you start with the Super Bowl stuff.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 20th, 2010
1:00 pm
Mike Vick
4th in qb rating
ZERO picks
ZERO fumbles lost
Top 10 in rushing
1st in yards per rush
We shall see what the CHOKE will do against another good defense like Pittsburg and we saw how that turned out
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 20th, 2010
1:03 pm
No Turner/Snelling equals another CHOKE special by the CHOKE master