It’s time for Falcons to turn Matt Ryan loose with offense

Expect the Falcons to take the clamps off of quarterback Matt Ryan a little this season.

Expect the Falcons to take the clamps off of quarterback Matt Ryan a little this season.

FLOWERY BRANCH — The oldish-looking coach who has been accused of putting his quarterback in leg shackles and handcuffs insists that his reputation is undeserved.

“Everybody may have this vision that coach Smith is a 50-plus-year-old, gray-haired conservative guy,” Mike Smith said Tuesday. “But that’s not the case. By nature, I am not a conservative person. We are going to be aggressive and we are going to be physical.”

With Smith as their head coach and Matt Ryan as their quarterback, the Falcons have gone 33-15, easily the best three-year run in franchise history. So criticism obviously is in short supply. But with two quick playoff exits and Ryan fizzling in both postseason games — four interceptions, two fumbles, two turnovers returned for touchdowns – shortcomings tend to get magnified by the populace.

Some of the postseason problems obviously fall on Ryan. But general manager Thomas Dimitroff recognized that his team needed another weapon on offense, leading to draft day pyrotechnics and the selection of Julio Jones. Now the team needs to make another change — this one more philosophical.

The Falcons go as Ryan goes, and the only way we’re going to know just how far they can go is if they put more in the hands of their quarterback and open up the offense. With Roddy White on one side, Jones on the other, Tony Gonzalez in the middle, the addition of running back Jacquizz Rodgers and the expected improvement of receiver Harry Douglas, the Falcons have the potential to be as explosive as any offense in the NFL.

Ryan is not one to complain. Fact is, there hasn’t been much to complain about. But we’ve seen before what can happen when the Falcons have turned Ryan loose. Wins at New Orleans and Green Bay in 2008, and over Cincinnati and Baltimore last season come to mind.

Notwithstanding Smith’s contention that he is not conservative, there’s a sense in Flowery Branch that offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey resides to Smith’s left.

Ryan said with the addition of Jones, “It probably changes what we do a little bit. You change to the personnel you have.”

When asked if there have been times when he has wanted the offense to be more aggressive, Ryan said, “You can’t be frustrated as a player. There was no dissension or anything like that. I think everyone was on board. Winning 13 games [last season] the way we did it is not an easy thing to do. But I think this year things probably will be a little bit different.”

White already has seen a difference in training camp, saying: “We have to throw the ball down field, and in the first five practices we’ve done that a lot — more go routes, more posts, a lot more things down the field to get guys open.”

Ryan realizes it’s on him to make it work.

Last year’s playoff loss to Green Bay stuck with him through the offseason. He had two key first-half interceptions against the Packers by Tramon Williams: one from the Green Bay 26 when he attempted to hit Michael Jenkins in the end zone (the score was tied 14-14) and the other, a crusher, when he misfired on a sideline pass to White just before halftime, and Williams picked it off and returned it 70 yards for a touchdown (make it 28-14).

“That’s the one that keep you up at night,” Ryan said. “When you’re in that position, especially before the half, it’s such a critical time in the game and you can’t make mistakes.”

Some of Ryan’s critics think the Falcons have protected him, that he doesn’t have the arm strength to operate a more wide-open offense. But that ignores evidence to the contrary. Playoff turnovers have been about mistakes, not arm strength. Smith certainly believes in him.

“I’m not going to give away state secrets,” he said. “But when you draft a player with [Jones'] skill set, it creates a different dynamic on your football team. That’s something we’ve embraced.”

It should be a show worth watching.

By Jeff Schultz

Follow me on Twitter @JeffSchultzAJC; friend me at Facebook.com/JeffSchultzAJC

212 comments Add your comment

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:28 pm

Yeah Cheffy’s first!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:30 pm

Julio will either prove or disprove his arm strength.

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:31 pm

Trifecta time!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:32 pm

Jeff, just call me on the phone, we’ll talk.

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:34 pm

he’s got a big winde up.

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:35 pm

Jeff, FGS, send me an IPad.

Rikus

August 2nd, 2011
5:35 pm

Damn straight. Let the dogs loose!!! (2nd)

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:36 pm

Not saying he’s got a KK arm at all.

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:38 pm

Rikus has joined the convo..EXCELLENT!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:41 pm

And the COUNT doesn’t even know I exist. FOR SHAME!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
5:42 pm

I’m batting 8th tonight.

Rikus

August 2nd, 2011
5:45 pm

Chef, what you cooking tonight? I’m getting hungry…

Seen (Sean Payton) This (cross picket lines and play as a scab) B4

August 2nd, 2011
5:45 pm

If anyone had told me three years ago that we’d have 33 wins over the next 3 seasons, I would have called them crazy. The two playoff losses have obscured what an amazing job this regime has done to rebuild the team. As we approach years 4 and 5, though, expectations are justifiably high and we need to win and go deep in the playoffs. It won’t be easy–the NFC is now the premier conference–but it can be done. GEAUX PAINKILLERS!

JEM

August 2nd, 2011
5:47 pm

yeah come on

Rev Jim Hicks

August 2nd, 2011
5:51 pm

Ryan has pretty good arm strength. He’s no Bartkowski in arm strength but can air it out when he has to. If Harry Douglas can be the player he was in ‘08 it will be very interesting with both White and Julio in the arsenal.

Bob Rathbun

August 2nd, 2011
5:57 pm

WOOOOOOOOH, Cant wait baby!!

DJ Sniper

August 2nd, 2011
5:57 pm

Can we please put this issue to bed? The issue being Matt Ryan’s arm strength. I’ll be the first to admit that his arm may not be a cannon like Aaron Rogers or Mike Vick, but Ryan has plenty of arm strength to get the ball downfield. I’ve seen him unload some deep balls during his first 3 years. Some have been on target, while some haven’t, but there’s no question that he can do it.

If Mike Mularkey truly does open things up, then our offense will be something to behold in 2011!

Larry

August 2nd, 2011
6:02 pm

This team will only go as far as Ryan takes them.

Don’t believe it? Just plug in Redman or Parker and see the difference!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
6:09 pm

Rikus: May not be appatizing but hopefully, Smoked Nats.

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
6:10 pm

Larry: A JPW refference, how refreshing!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
6:12 pm

BTW, I’m standing in for Jeff on this blog. Fire away!

Runner-

August 2nd, 2011
6:12 pm

WOO WOO number 19 in da house

ohhhhYEAH

August 2nd, 2011
6:13 pm

I just hope Ryan keeps doin what he’s been doin. He will be fine. He has all the talent in the world that one needs to operate an offense in this league successfully

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
6:19 pm

WOO WOO: KUDO”s ( yeah, I’ll steal)!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
6:22 pm

RANDY(the late) SAVAGE: I’m with you Ryan, let the game come to you.

rms

August 2nd, 2011
6:26 pm

hopefully our offensive line holds up. Gotta have a stout offensive line to be able to throw deep routes!!

"Chef" Tim Dix

August 2nd, 2011
6:28 pm

Jeff, hope you’re enjoying dinner.

Back in 2 and 2. ( Get it?)

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
6:31 pm

Slow of foot, Low pocket presence, Average arm…aka Matty meltdown….yawn

Fire Mike M.(Offensive coordinator)!

Previous Blog,
“A HIT….

August 2nd, 2011
5:02 pm

“Eagles sign former Dolphins RB Brown to 1-year deal
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Tuesday, August 02, 2011, 4:37pm
byline-frank.jpg
By Reuben Frank
CSNPhilly.com

BETHLEHEM, Pa — The Eagles on Monday found the veteran tailback they’ve been looking for, agreeing to a one-year contract with former Miami Dolphin Ronnie Brown.

Brown, a 1,000-yard rusher in 2006, had 4,815 rushing yards, 36 rushing touchdowns and a 4.3 average in six seasons with the Dolphins, who made him the second pick in the 2005 draft out of Auburn.

Brown is also an outstanding receiver, with 184 receptions for 1,491 yards. He’s had 30 or more catches in five of his six seasons.

Last year, Brown averaged a career-low 3.7 yards per carry with five touchdowns. He went to the Pro Bowl in 2008, when he rushed for 916 yards and 10 touchdowns and caught 33 passes for 254 yards. Brown has also thrown two touchdown passes.

(More coming…)” The rich get richer!!! Are you kiddin me? Another Pro-bowler? Dream Team!

Eagles 45, Falcons 18! Sun night Sept. 18th @ 8:20pm on NBC!Vick 2012 MVP!”

Kirk

August 2nd, 2011
6:47 pm

If you are an eagles fan, go blow your crap on an eagles blog. Go Falcons!

Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 2nd, 2011
6:57 pm

Ryan certainly has the armstrength. I think the Falcons love the fact that Turner can grind the ball out successfully and have failed to fully utilize Ryan as a direct result. The GB lose exposed that to a degree as the Falcons lacked that comeback big play air threat. Ryan is progessing perfectly in the lines of NFL great QB’s. Just go through the history of QB’s and it is a pattern. Ryan will be fine this year, he is the least of my concerns.

Puma

August 2nd, 2011
7:06 pm

Agreed Lowcountry – I think there has always been an effort to control the ball and clock to protect the fragile defense which has always been questionable. Hopefully our new DE will make a difference.

Dawg Tired

August 2nd, 2011
7:07 pm

Jim "Cannonball" Butler

August 2nd, 2011
7:11 pm

`
Ryan is not a Loose Cannon. Yes, Ryan will be fine this year.

Seattle Falcons Fan

August 2nd, 2011
7:23 pm

Mark my words…… Its only a matter of time before Vick gets hurt…….. He is nothing without his legs! I’m more scared of GB and the Saints than the Eagles…

P-Man

August 2nd, 2011
7:25 pm

Going to be a great year. Go Falcons!

Drunk Frat Boy

August 2nd, 2011
7:29 pm

I’m Drunk Frat Boy and I approve of this message.

SeenThisB4

August 2nd, 2011
7:30 pm

The falcan’ts are rapidly becoming the FALCANS. I never thought I would be saying this, but my Saints are falling further and further down the food chain. I am truly concerned that we may not win a single game this year. This Falcon’s teams has made all the right moves so far this offseason. Please don’t run the scores up. GEAUX SAINTS

Trey

August 2nd, 2011
7:35 pm

Jeff why don’t you just shut up. You don’t have a clue about sports. You think the braves can catch philly. Then they lose 2 in a row and it’s about to be 3 and to crap teams. And you think the falcons should turn lose a qb who has shown very little in regards to game management? Yeah that last game sure was a doozy. Knock it off and stick to number crunching and stop the prognosticating.

Seattle Falcons Fan

August 2nd, 2011
7:36 pm

Why is everyone down on Grimes (not his wife)? Snelling is doing the same thing and Daul took off….

Trey's Mom

August 2nd, 2011
7:39 pm

Trey, I told you to turn off the computer and clean your room. Careful or it’s off to military school for you young man!

SeenThisB4

August 2nd, 2011
7:40 pm

@Trey- Please tell me what prognosticating is. Is that the same thing as when you need to go to the bathroom but can’t. GEAUX SAINTS

DrJ

August 2nd, 2011
7:43 pm

Enjoyed reading a well-written football article, in contrast to the other ajc blog about housewives!
And it looks like you proofread before publishing….

Joe Tess Fish House

August 2nd, 2011
7:47 pm

Mat Ryan throughs 2 many INTS as it is no way should they turn him loose.

Stevie B

August 2nd, 2011
7:51 pm

Second that DrJ. I am disappointed in DOL. Certainly there was something else to report. I would have rather read “Falcons Changed Fertilizer Blend: Now Grass is Greener!”

jerry

August 2nd, 2011
8:04 pm

With Jones and Rodgers, there is now potential to get a lot of yards after the catch, which has been sorely lacking. It may not be necessary to turn Ryan into the Mad Bomber.

Gatorman

August 2nd, 2011
8:17 pm

I disagree with the analogy completely. Gunslinger mentality is great for highlights, but seldom wins championships. However, the offense needs to get out the dink and dunk play calling from Mularkey. Some say, look at their last three year records, best in the history of the franchise. The problem with that is a wild card team won the superbowl, but coming back to Atlanta (after losing earlier) and totally dominated the team (all of it). The playoffs are a second season, and teams need to adapt/change habits they got into during the regular season and give the opposition nothing to study and stop. Green Bay did that to Atlanta and the Falcons never changed up the offense or the defense.

Najeh Davenpoop

August 2nd, 2011
8:18 pm

“Some of Ryan’s critics think the Falcons have protected him, that he doesn’t have the arm strength to operate a more wide-open offense. But that ignores evidence to the contrary. Playoff turnovers have been about mistakes, not arm strength. ”

The first pick he threw against Green Bay was ENTIRELY about arm strength. For a quarterback with elite arm strength, that’s an easy touchdown. No reason that ball had to float in the air for so long and allow the corner to catch up to it in the end zone.

To be clear, plenty of quarterbacks have had long and successful careers with average arm strength, and Matt Ryan may be the next in line. It’s also not out of the question that he might be able to increase his arm strength as his career progresses, although I can’t think of any examples of players who have done this before. But there is plenty of evidence to show that his arm strength right now is far from elite. There’s a reason the offense hasn’t “opened up” to this point in his career.

Nathan D

August 2nd, 2011
8:21 pm

i agree with jones and rodgers we should be great on offense now the defense to be better assumingy edwards get some sacks is that jerry and spoon need be impact players and robinson with his contract should really be better he only had one INT lasat year. Grimes needs to stop being a butt and join the falcons in camp.

TROTTINGHOME

August 2nd, 2011
8:48 pm

Didn’t you say that last year shultz

denverfalcon

August 2nd, 2011
8:53 pm

Seattle Falcon, The reason people are down on Grimes and not Snelling and Dahl is that Grimes is still under contract. He’s a restricted FA and has been tendered so therefore has one year left on his deal. Snelling and Dahl were unrestricted and could walk. Yes, Grimes can’t practice until Thursday, but he could attend meetings if only he were to sign his tender. He should be smart enough to understand that the Falcons are trying to get the unrestricted guys signed first and would most likely reup him during the season.

jab

August 2nd, 2011
9:02 pm

something tells me peters is going to be disruptive and have a breakout year…offensive guards will be looking out the corner of thier eyes (worried about our DE) and not in front of them

Mike is Back

August 2nd, 2011
9:02 pm

Shultz, I agree with you…Mike needs to turn Ryan loose…or Mularkey needs to be more imaginative with the play calling…we were too predictable…without a change of pace back…teams was able to key on Turner…AND jump passing routes.

So, yeah some of the bad throws could be contributed to arm strength…But less we forget the state this organization when he took the helm as a rookie…he proved he was a winner… I think he has all tools to win a Super Bowl…will he have to get better…of course.

IF the BIG Tuna says…he should have drafted Matt Ryan…when Miami had the number one pick…Hey, that’s good enough me.

GO BIRDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
9:04 pm

Sorry “Fall-Con” Fans. Matty “MELTDOWN” aint the one….Give it 4 more years of excuses from the organization….

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 2nd, 2011
9:06 pm

Yeah turn than ole NOODLE ARM loose with those 15 yard slants and the INTs will get even more pathetic.

It must be killing you fools knowing Vick will get that Lombardi for Philly :)

I wonder if CHOKE will get any blame this year :)

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
9:07 pm

Turner lost 3 steps..He gets hit in the back field far to many times..Now its 3rd and long and the pressure is on Matty and Mularkey…

Greenbay beatdown again.and again and again…

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
9:13 pm

Week 1 Sun. 9/11/2011 @ St. Louis Rams
Week 2 Sun. 9/18/2011 @ Atlanta Falcons
Week 3 Sun. 9/25/2011 vs. New York Giants
Week 4 Sun. 10/2/2011 vs. San Francisco 49ers
Week 5 Sun. 10/9/2011 @ Buffalo Bills
Week 6 Sun. 10/16/2011 @ Washington Redskins

Eagles go 6-0 first six games!

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
9:19 pm

Matty wont know were the blitzes are coming from and Philly will shake him up! Over by halftime….

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 2nd, 2011
9:32 pm

Nnamdi on the left…………

Cromartie on the right……………

Asante in the nickle……………

Where is ole NOODLE ARM going to throw those butterflies?

Cole on one end……………..

Babin on the other………………..

Jenkins in between……………….

Somebody better call the medics, I think ole NOODLE ARM maybe having issues :)

OldTimer

August 2nd, 2011
9:34 pm

Ryan is the man. Get over it.

Mookie

August 2nd, 2011
9:42 pm

Matt needed a personal trainer to strengthen arm during off season but too late now to begin. Turner needed to loose weight. Matt needs to call his own plays since he is a lot more savy at it than Mularky. He does a great job with the no huddle offense and changing the call at the line. We need Grimes signed now and before the 8-20 date. I can’t believe it looks like we are doomed to repeat history again with Chris Owens at nickel back this year (5′-9″ 179 lbs, 2 steps slow, reference the Ochocinco highlite film on NFL network burned for touchdowns and not to mention the last GB game). This is our last weak link and it will burn us. Love all the other moves.

tom

August 2nd, 2011
9:48 pm

Back in the day when the Falcons went to the Super Bowl that season the two things the team did with great success. They put constant pressure on the opposing quarterback and they threw the long ball. Well Dan Reeves blew in the Super Bowl. Long pass did not happen most of the game and they allowed the opposing quarterback to sit back with almost no pressure. Go figure.

Foreverfan

August 2nd, 2011
9:50 pm

I think his arm is everything we need already. What he has already, that’s more important than arm strength, is between his ears. He’s a true leader and nobody works harder than him both mentally and physically. We are fortunate to have him and think of all the fun we’ll have watching him for the next few years.

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 2nd, 2011
9:53 pm

Foreverfan

August 2nd, 2011
9:50 pm
I think his arm is everything we need already. What he has already, that’s more important than arm strength, is between his ears. He’s a true leader and nobody works harder than him both mentally and physically.

______________________________________

Does that come with a side of Z E R O Playoff wins :)

No Worries

August 2nd, 2011
9:54 pm

Some of the thugs on Philly’s team will likely be in jail before we play them.

And the plot thickens

August 2nd, 2011
10:03 pm

Fal-cants are lucky if the win 6 games this year. Eagles, packers and saints will be fighting for the NFC championship.

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 2nd, 2011
10:06 pm

No Worries

August 2nd, 2011
9:54 pm
Some of the thugs on Philly’s team will likely be in jail before we play them.

____________________________________________________

Last year Philly beat you girls 34-17 and 34-7 the year before. In fact you girls haven’t beaten the Eagles since Vick beat them in 2006.

They could suit up the waterboy and whip you girls :)

Big Ray

August 2nd, 2011
10:07 pm

I didn’t know you won playoff and SuperBowl games with arm strength. If that’s the case, I can think of some strong-armed guys who should have had their teams in the SuperBowl by now.

Gosh, we should just trade Ryan and get a guy with elite arm strength. Because clearly that’s why we haven’t won playoff games. Because of Ryan’s arm strength.

Sounds like we have some Al Davis type of thinkers around here….

Big Ray

August 2nd, 2011
10:08 pm

And I see the troll turd-eating heckler is back.

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 2nd, 2011
10:09 pm

Saints got stronger………….

Bucs got stronger…………..

Panthers got stronger……………

Looks like 4th place in the NFC South. Welcome back to pre Vick football :)

SAL PAOLANTONIO

August 2nd, 2011
10:09 pm

`
Winning the NFC South Division and 13 games
does not equal “CHOKE”.

It’s about time for you to finish your 8th grade homework and go to bed.

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 2nd, 2011
10:11 pm

Aaron Rodgers has both arm strength and mobility.

Two things CHOKE doesn’t.

So much for that weak theory Lil Ray :)

And the plot thickens

August 2nd, 2011
10:20 pm

That Georgia dome will be empty by game number 6, just like it was when the packers put the beat down on your team last year. The entire nation knows that the fal-cants fans are with the team when the season starts, boy when they start to lose, they abandon ship as fast as the Somalia pirates.

Not the falcons

August 2nd, 2011
10:23 pm

What team in the NFC south has never won a super bowl? That’s right not the FALCONS

GO FALCONS ............. phillie stinks

August 2nd, 2011
10:28 pm

“CHOKE” forgot to take his Ritalin and is hallucinating again.

JASon

August 2nd, 2011
10:29 pm

Regardless of the discussion about arm strength, I think we can all agree that matt ryan is a good enough quarterback to run a pass-first offense. I don’t care what the record was, it is an outrage that the coaching staff has played their conservative, run-first offense for so long; stifling this kid’s development, for so long.

kman

August 2nd, 2011
10:29 pm

the only fans who should be allowed to comment here, are fans of teams that have won something……..The Eagles haven’t won anything, and probably won’t this season. Next season maybe because they would have been together a full season and will work better together.

GO FALCONS ............. phillie stinks

August 2nd, 2011
10:30 pm

The Carolina Panthers have never won a Super Bowl,
know your damn football before you mouth off.

Marquis James

August 2nd, 2011
10:51 pm

Its about time we stopped making excuses for him….he now has MORE weapons thany ANY quarteback in the league….except for a coordinator, he has ALL the tools….NOW WHAT? Im tired of excuses. He has Gonzales underneath and Turner behind him…why cant he throw deep?? Matt “Howdy Doody” has a popcorn arm…..I saw Polomalau bait him, I saw the bait twice by Green Bay…..I saw Jenkins wait on a bomb in Foxboro that he ended up having to push off on….he aint got it……and no one has seen it. PERIOD!!!!!!

Not the falcons

August 2nd, 2011
10:57 pm

I knew the panthers never won a super bowl, I omitted them because they’ve only been in the league a couple of years, unlike the sorry fal-cants, who has been in the league since the 60s. The fal-cants are one of a handful of teams never to win a super bowl. You guys were all giddy last year because they won the NFC south. At least my eagles has been in the super bowl several times. I’ll bet we win one with my boy Vick, before you win one with matty iceberg.

Marquis James

August 2nd, 2011
10:58 pm

Fact: he is 0-2 in the playoffs….our money has been spent on the offensive side of the ball….where is our 30 points???? Its a bunch of Milarkey and the Howdy Doody Ryan show….he needs to man-up or go home!! Harvey Dahl is gone…Howdy Doody is gonna get hit if he doesnt air it out!! Besides, our best strategy against the Eagles SHOULDNT be….wait til Vick gets hurt??? Vick NEVER had Howdy Doody’s personnel….Im disgusted!!!!!

BiggdawgK

August 2nd, 2011
11:02 pm

I am eager to see Ryan hit Julio on a deep route while Roddy is being double covered. It will probably take 4 games of Matty connecting with the Falcons posse of fleet footed receivers to shut the “Ryan has no arm” crowd up and damn it will be fun to watch.

I would like to add myself to the ever widening group of readers who are unhappy with DOL and his non coverage of our Atlanta Falcons. The guy is clueless and is constantly scooped by other beat writers and even worse by regular guys posting to his lame blog. I would complain on DOL’s page but the last few times I pointed out to him readers didn’t want to read about ohio st he had me banned.

TCCB

August 2nd, 2011
11:12 pm

Vince Young. Need I say more?

PaulieOldSchool

August 2nd, 2011
11:18 pm

Jeff, good column, thanks. From your pen to God’s ear, and the Falcons’ coaching staff. PLEASE open up the offense and go downfield more. We’ll never be Air Coryell, but we can certainly be Air Georgia.

Mr. Cleo

August 2nd, 2011
11:21 pm

I have seen the future; its name is Julio Jones. This young man is going to do for the Falcons’ offense what Randy Moss did for the ‘98 Vikings. Rejoice, Falcons fans, we’re finally going to see fireworks in the Georgia Dome from our beloved Birds.

TrishaDishaWarEagle

August 2nd, 2011
11:29 pm

While i would never put Vick in the league of a super bowl winning QB like Joe Theisman, I hope the buzz of NFl week 3 is how their careers ended the same. Go Abraham and Edwards!! Mangle some QB’s

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
11:44 pm

“Winning the NFC South Division and 13 games
does not equal “CHOKE”.

Ah 9 out of 13 wins were against teams with sub .500 records!! The FALL-CONS can thank the the league for their fools paradise record.. Most of the elite football analysts did not jump on the bus cause they knew the real “FALL-CONS” would show up and get crushed on NATIONAL TV! Man that was embarrassing..

The Eagles< Falcons d last season and only lost to GB by 5 lousy pts.
Matty gave it away with 2mins left on the clock before Halftime! Game over! Turn the channel!

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
11:46 pm

Mularkey has got to go!!

A HIT....

August 2nd, 2011
11:55 pm

kman

August 2nd, 2011
10:29 pm

“the only fans who should be allowed to comment here, are fans of teams that have won something……..The Eagles haven’t won anything, and probably won’t this season. Next season maybe because they would have been together a full season and will work better together.”

Ah News Flash Curly, the Eagles only lost by 3 pts in the that 2005 SuperBowl that eveyone knows BILL BELLACHEAT STOLE!

What did the FALL-CONS LOOSE by, 3 touchdowns against Denver in the 98 SuperBowl?

Reid owns the “Fall-Cons”. Won 8 of 9 by an average score of 2 touchdowns!
Eagles 52 Fall-Cons 18, Sunday night in 6 weeks on NBC!

The Eagles are gearing up to crush GreenBay not he “FALL-CONS”

Ang

August 2nd, 2011
11:57 pm

The Falcons are going the way of the Braves – good, but not great.

I can’t blame them as far as ticket sales go, but I’m not going to get too excited about a team dependent on an over-the-hill RB, a diminishing TE, and a rookie WR.

ATLER (Ramblin Wreck)

August 3rd, 2011
12:11 am

Let’s just hope his arm strength has gotten better. Old bubble gum arm could throw deep at all the last couple of years.

Whopper Dawg

August 3rd, 2011
12:13 am

The problem is with the OC. If you look at the elite offensive teams, MM is nowhere NEAR their ilk.

Combine that with a running back that can’t catch (Turner) and good luck.

A HIT....

August 3rd, 2011
12:17 am

“The problem is with the OC”

How many years now 13? Think they’ll ever fix the O line? Especially with a non mobile QB @ the helm? Duh…

ATLER (Ramblin Wreck)

August 3rd, 2011
12:21 am

Seattle Falcons Fan

August 2nd, 2011
7:23 pm

Mark my words…… Its only a matter of time before Vick gets hurt…….. He is nothing without his legs! I’m more scared of GB and the Saints than the Eagles…

Your smoking some of that Kurt Cobain up there in Seattle my friend. The Eagles have assembled a force to be reckoned with. Hopefully our Dirty Birds come with their A+ game. I just don’t see it though. Wish we didn’t have to play them this year.

TrishaDishaWarEagle

August 3rd, 2011
2:14 am

He’s right..how many seasons has the canine assassin completed healthy? kolb is gone and an escaped mental patient is their backup..one good crack and philly goes down. R. Mexico has flashes of great play..even 4 or 5 games..then the injuries..It happened when he was here more than not, it happened last year, and now their backup Qb makes Herschel Walker(or at least 4 or 5 of his personalities) seem normal.

Najeh Davenpoop

August 3rd, 2011
2:25 am

If your best bet is that an opposing player gets seriously injured, you are not in very good shape.

Miles

August 3rd, 2011
3:04 am

I agree, Jeff.

Turn Matt Ryan loose.

RELEASE HIM, and get MV7 back here in a trade!

Stinger2

August 3rd, 2011
3:44 am

Schultz: Is it you or your bosses who come up with
the subject and content of what you write? Just asking.

Flo-Ri-Duh

August 3rd, 2011
5:05 am

\Left tackle and right guard needs to be upgraded in the next draft. Baker is injury prone and would be better suited on the right side – as a backup. Dahl was tough and all that but his lunch was handed to him i the big games (Packers). To throw long Ryan needs more time than he has been getting. Resign Snelling. Julio has had two problems = catching the ball and staying healthy. The Falcons should try to resign Michael Jenkins to a lower contract. He is a good possession receiver and the Falcons can use him. The defensive line is better with Edwards but our oft injuried 1st round choice DT needs to step up this year.

JeanShonay

August 3rd, 2011
5:31 am

Ryan ain’t the man until he takes the Falcons to a NFC Championship like Mike Vick!!! That’s when he will get my true respect….

Mike S

August 3rd, 2011
5:44 am

Anyone else a little worried about the WRs after Roddy and Julio
? Any chance they could resign Jenkins to a cheaper deal or are they even allowed to resign a player they have cut.

kaput

August 3rd, 2011
7:13 am

Josh Freeman is better than Ryan.

Next question.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 3rd, 2011
7:17 am

To throw long he does need to be down 28 points. Down 28 points the offensive line is almost helpless because the defense is primed to kill the QB. They know you are passing. So ears are pinned back.

Also Freeman is a nice QB at this point, good leadership skills, but really? Ryan lead the Falcons to 13-3 and the #1 seed in the NFC. Hate all you like but have some perspective.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 3rd, 2011
7:17 am

**does not***

JB

August 3rd, 2011
7:38 am

It took Roddy White about 3 years to mature and become a #1 pick type player. Let’s hope with Roddy drawing doubles, it will open up big things for J. Jones. you can’t double both of them with an all pro TE lurking. This might be fun to watch.

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
7:50 am

will be still be an all pro TE @ 60? some of you amaze with this talk of tony g. he’s older than dirt.

wr depth is non existent. middle linebacker major question mark considering lofton is coming off two knee surgeries. and they have another dinosaur slated to get major minutes on the outside. the lines are solid but not spectacular. the rb has too much wear and tear and his numbers should decrease drastically.

also, could use a new defensive coordinator.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
7:56 am

Kaput, can’t you at least throw at least say 100 words together and expand your statement as to how you have come to such propensity of knowledge of the game?? I’ll hang-up and listen intently to your monronic wisdom .

Go Falcons #2

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
8:03 am

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
8:25 am

Kaput, another “Chunk N’ Duck”!!!

At least honest_abe tries to back-up his opinions with some weak facts! Although I don’t agree him either.

Fellas’: The truth is – this is the beginning of a new season, could be a real story to come with any of the 32 franchises/teams. My feelings this year the Falcons are still in need of at least one solid defensive player i.e., safety or DE possibly. If the Falcons stay healthy on offense & defense we will win 10-13 games this year. Meaning if there is no major injury issues at skill positions. The play-offs it’s a toss-up, whoever the hot handed QB is – will WIN!

Go Falcons

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
8:32 am

please tell me how my facts are weak? i’m all ears. bottom line is this team is nowhere near as strong as some of you would like to think. major holes all over this team.

corners – subpar
safeties – good
linebackers – (if lofton out) weak
d-line – avg
o-line – good
te – avg
qb – above avg
wr’s – (1 excellent and a bunch of unprovens) = fair
rb – good

sounds like an avg team to me with a much more tougher schedule. they’ll be lucky to go 9-7.

tony

August 3rd, 2011
8:33 am

They forgave Vick in Phili land so expect good things to come their way. I’m picking the Eagles and the Patriots in the SB. I think the Falcons will have a decent season with the Ray Edwards signing.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
8:36 am

You opinions in my opinion are not with merit!!

Sobeit, on your prediction, I hope you wrong!

Go Falcons

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
8:39 am

We will see how good the Eaglettes really are week #2 – Also we will see how good the Falcons are TOO!!!

Go Falcons

Kane337

August 3rd, 2011
8:40 am

Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio, Julio !

Kane337

August 3rd, 2011
8:40 am

Ryan to Jones for six!

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
8:47 am

Over past 3 seasons – How adout 33 & 15 is that average you dumba$$ idiot!

Go Falcons

TrishaDishaWarEagle

August 3rd, 2011
8:48 am

11-5 season AND we beat the filthydelpian’s week 2. Yep. Believe it.

JChikara

August 3rd, 2011
8:49 am

Apparently arm strength means everything, just ask Jeff George, holder of 10 Super Bowl Rings….never mind.

Then how about Warren Moon, he won a bunch of titles with his…..never mind that either.

Ok, ok, one more. Let’s go with the powerful arm strength of guys like Randall Cunningham and Patrick Ramsey, guys who won many….oh forget it!

You losers think that arm strength alone makes a great QB? Really? Matt Ryan is a winner and is growing into an elite QB. He doesn’t play in a pass first system like Rodgers and Brees, guys who have to rely on 4 & 5 wide receiver sets to be successful.

He’s got a wealth of talent around him, and I trust that he will get the job done this year. Mularkey needs to know that you can throw the ball to your running backs.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 3rd, 2011
8:51 am

I will take a Super Bowl at 9-7. Just get in the playoffs and finishing the season on a streak. Look at the Packers last year. It isn’t all about the regular season. If so then when the Pats went 16-0 we should not have even played the playoffs. This team is built for the long haul of a NFL season. Hate all you like buy the Falcons are in the ELITE class of the NFL.

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
8:51 am

you sound like an inane redneck. go chew some snuff and choke on yourself.

the falcons have had a comically easy schedule last year. they managed to squeak by in a few games last year. i give them credit for that. but they also got blown out in the playoffs @ HOME. the schedule is much tougher this year. this team is the epitome of avg. from their gameplan to their talent.

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
8:53 am

oh yes that was directed “true falcon moron”

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
8:55 am

33 & 15 —- is that average?

Steve

August 3rd, 2011
8:56 am

To all you vick lovers out there. How did the eagles game end that got them knocked out of the playoffs last year? Oh yeah, it was on a weak underthrown ball in the endzone. The eagles problem in that game wasn’t the defense but like always on a vick led team it’s all the other offensive players.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
8:57 am

Honest_abe you have right to your opinion! If you don’t love the Falcons, then go someplace else!

Enough said

Go Falcons

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
9:04 am

i’ve been a fan since 89. suffered alot through the years. so don’t give me that crap. just because i’m a fan doesn’t mean i need to be a blithering idiot either. i don’t have to assume that everything they do is right. as a fan i voice my concerns and opinions just like you … who sound like a new comer to this falcon fan base who joined after they started getting prime time games on tv. ya i highly doubt you listened to the falcons on radio back on 750 am when they used to be blacked out every sunday. and good ol larry munson held the mic. so buzz off about being a true falcons fan.

A HIT....

August 3rd, 2011
9:10 am

Steve

August 3rd, 2011
8:56 am

To all you vick lovers out there. How did the eagles game end that got them knocked out of the playoffs last year? Oh yeah, it was on a weak underthrown ball in the endzone. The eagles problem in that game wasn’t the defense but like always on a vick led team it’s all the other offensive players.

OK, but Matty Ice MELTDOWN gave his game away with 2mins left before the half!! Game over! Turn the channel..

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:13 am

Hey buddy, I am been fan since “DAY ONE” 1965! Probably before you were born.

Don’t get your panties in a wad, you have a right to your own opinion, RELAX!

Go Falcons

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:21 am

honest_abe ok you have the final work, GO

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:22 am

I meant “WORD” – I’ve got “WORK” to do “Good Bye”

Go Falcons

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
9:24 am

ok. if jj lives up to this crazy hype (unlikely since he’s injury prone and has butterfingers) and burner can regain some of that speed from several years back. and if the linebacking corp stays healthy. and one of either frank or ownes steps up at nickel back. and if ray edwards give legit pressure opposite of abe. if abe stays healthy. if peria jerry can contribut anything! then yes the falcons have a shot to go 10-6 and make the playoffs. obviously this is what i would prefer happening.

but since there’s no depth anywhere. a couple of injuries and this whole thing could blow up. and guess what our 1st rounder next year goes to cleveland. awesome.

PMC

August 3rd, 2011
9:26 am

So, what are we going to do about the Sam Baker giving up sacks problem with this new pass happy offense?

kman

August 3rd, 2011
9:29 am

A Hit, a lose is a lose, and a win is a win, no matter what you win or loose by. Yes the Eagles went to two Super Bowls, and lost both…………They still havent won anything!

kman

August 3rd, 2011
9:31 am

I meant loss!

PMC

August 3rd, 2011
9:35 am

Abe what do you not like about the depth? I think they have plenty of depth. That was the last few drafts. Depth on the LOS. They’ve got depth now at with Biermann and Davis. They’ve got depth at tackle with Jerry, Peters, Babs maybe Trey Lewis. A couple years ago the middle of the line was a sieve. Now it’s pretty stout. They added Dent to help give depth in the middle at LB. The problem I’d think now would be CB, and whether or not we can trust the WR position. The line depth on the offensive line is also pretty decent except for Left Tackle where they could stand to upgrade. They also I think need better depth at RB unless they keep Snelling.

I like the depth though for the most part and the starters are pretty good too at most positions. They are a pretty good football team as constituted though I think they will add some veterans in the next few weeks at CB and WR.

No reason to think they can’t win 10 or 11 games even with a brutal schedule. A couple of injuries and every team can go in the tank. They only get 53 players, they can’t all be stars.

Of course I’d feel better if I actually trusted our left tackle and if I could trust our rookies to perform on offense, but I don’t at the moment.

Steve

August 3rd, 2011
9:39 am

I love how people always want to compare Vick and Ryan. Ryan has only been in the league for 3 years. I think he’s done pretty well. Check out Peytons first 3 years, even Vick sat behind Chandler his first season. Usually you compare QBs that have been in the league for the same amount of time. How bout comparing Vick to one of those guys, say one from his draft class maybe. If i’m not mistaken Brees came out in 2001.

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
9:42 am

pmc: you’re just listing names. jerry has done what? davis will most likely get cut. either him or sidbury. trey lewis is just another on a long line of busts. biermann? really? he made one nice play last year. other than that he got pushed around like a rag doll.

dent? a guy that runs over a 5 sec forty manning the middle of the field. i’m a georgia alum and fan and he is nowhere near a 3rd round pick. good value at around the 5th round. and he’s projected to be a special teams player. maybe we’ll actually see him get some snaps unlike spencer adkins or robert james.

depth on offensive line? who nelly. how do you know this these guys have been on the practice squad and no live action so how do you know there capable backups?

wr? really? who other than roddy? once again names that sound good if you’re a falcons fan but the rest of the world is like WHO?

no TE depth. teams reeks of old players. hopefully i’m wrong.

A Man Of Reason

August 3rd, 2011
9:44 am

Some of you are so dumb on this blog it makes me want to move to Canada. I love the people saying the Falcons had a weak schedule last year. Um… ok…. you must have went to a public school in Philly.

They played 8 games against teams that were in the top 10 defenses in NFL, including the top 3 defenses in the NFL. They went 6 and 2 in those games and 2 and 1 against the top 3. They played the Super Bowl Champions, the AFC Champions, and the defending super bowl champions. If they had played only the top 10 defenses in the league they still would have had a 12 and 4 record.

Philly has assembled a great collection of players, that doesn’t mean they have assembled a great team. If talent was all that mattered, the Red Skins and Cowboys would have been a dynasty recently. Both of them had loads of talented players. Philly hasn’t proved anything yet. If you want to crown them, then crown them. A lot of people bought into the Heat too… how did that work out? I will wait till I see them actually play a game.

John Wilkes Booth

August 3rd, 2011
9:53 am

Abe,
It’s time for you to go away. This is the reason Atlanta fans get a bad rap. Get behind your team or get out of the way. The team is moving in the right direction and has built on each of the previous years. I also think TD knows a little bit more about how to build a NFL team than you do. Go back to asking people if “they’d like fries with that shake.”

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
9:53 am

4 games against nfc west. those teams won 5,6,7,7 games. the played the panthers twice who won 2 games. they played the browns who won 4 games. they played the bengals who won 4 games. ???????????? two of their 3 losses came against backup qb’s. and you’re trying to tell me their schedule wasn’t easy? every tough game was at home which they squeaked by. hey i give them credit for pulling those out. but they had an easy schedule face it.

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
9:55 am

john wilkes booth: very clever. atl is known for a stupid fan base. thank you for fitting that description to a t.

A Man Of Reason

August 3rd, 2011
9:57 am

You are still glossing over the fact they were 6-2 against 8 of the top 10 defenses in the NFL for 2010. That is pretty darn good. One of those 2 loses was in OT.

PMC

August 3rd, 2011
10:01 am

Sidberry is probably Cut, I think Lewis was a 7th rounder. Not really a canidate to bust. Jerry was pretty good for the first 2 games before he tore up his knee. It usually takes a full year to get right, he and Harry Douglass weren’t fully back last year. Akeem Dent won’t be running 40 yards unless he’s on special teams and then it won’t matter much. Dent needs to be good in about a 10 yard area in the middle against the run. It’s not like he’s doing anything but spelling Curtis Lofton who frankly could use some rest in games. They aren’t asking him to cover fast receivers, if anything he’s playing a deep zone on a blitz package, again, not much running. Mike Johnson was a heck of a player at Alabama, and it looks like Reynolds is going to play guard too, Hawley is obviously not ready, but seriously, the Falcons have one of the best OL coaches in the league. They’ll be fine.

The team wasn’t even this talented last year and they won 13 games, why would you feel this negative about every player coming off a 13 win season? They haven’t regressed, they must be doing something well.

A Man Of Reason

August 3rd, 2011
10:10 am

Also, I love the people who think the reason we haven’t gone deep is because Ryan lacks the arm strength. You know nothing about football.

MM hasn’t allowed Ryan to go deep often because of our personnel. We only had one real deep threat in the passing game and because of that the safety was always rolled over to Roddy. Even if Roddy beat the CB off the line, the safety was always in position to get to the deep ball. Throwing the long ball would almost always result in a 2 vs 1 in favor of the defense. Gonzo is a great possession receiver, but he isn’t fast enough to stretch the defense. There is no way the O line can block long enough to get him down the field. Jenkins was good at doing some things, but he wasn’t a threat. Even if he got behind coverage, no one was worried he was going to take it to the house. He lacked the speed and big play ability to make defenses regret double coverage on White.

We didn’t go long because there was no favorable match up to warrant going long. It had nothing to do with Ryan. If we don’t go long this year, then you can whine.

scrappy

August 3rd, 2011
10:17 am

Abe, hate to say it, but you are right on…With this very tough schedule, the falcs could wind up below 500..(maybe even way below with a few injuries..i.e. Matt R. or anyone on an already weak defense) The NFC south is going to be tighter than it has ever been.. a few conference losses could mean the difference between 10 and 6 or 6 and 10) Keep those fingers crossed for good luck.. We will need it.

Not the falcons

August 3rd, 2011
10:35 am

You fal-cants fans keep drinking that red kool aid. Your team will not make the playoffs this year. Then I’m going to watch my eagles and my boy Vick make it to the NFC championship game, against the packers or saints, who we know how much you guys envy for winning a super bowl. You guys will be jumping off that bird wagon by game number 6.

PMC

August 3rd, 2011
10:40 am

So you’re really confident about Vick making it through the season uninjured huh?

Yeah, I remember being really confident back in 2003.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
10:44 am

Back at cha, honest_abe — As “OchoCinco” put’s it “Child Pleeass”

Are you going to answer the question: What is average about 33-15 record over the past three seasons, as compared to the ALL NFL TEAMS?? I really want to your “young person” intelligence come out in your answer??

Since you are a “Average” stating, “young person”!

I see 11-5 2011 seson coming baring no major skill position injuries.

Haven’t got much time I’ve got to get back to work, you have the “FINAL WORD”

Go Falcons

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
10:50 am

Vick “Con” is coming to town game 2 – we will get good look at the “Dream Team” – Yes we shall see who the best team is — ooops i forgot “WHO THE BEST QB IS”.

Go Falcons

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
10:52 am

there’s nothing average about 33-15. but i’ve already stated why i don’t see the same results this year. (tougher sched, age, mediocre drafts)

much tougher schedule. falcons play 5 of the first 8 on the road with the 3 homes games being philly, green bay, carolina. unless they come out of that first 8 game stretch at least .500 they’re going to miss the playoffs.

age: tony g. who the birds rely heavily on is too old. michael turner and mike petersen. all very old and on the backend of their careers. but all big time contributors to this team last yr.

mediocre drafts: say whatever you will thomas dimitroff has had only one great draft. the others for whatever reasons i.e. injuries have been below avg to say the least.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
10:52 am

I’m sorry should “CON VICK”

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
10:55 am

Thank You for your answer i concur!

TD – really has not had a “GOOD” draft since he’s been here. This past draft maybe his best yet – we will see soon enough.

Go Falcons

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
10:56 am

Got’st to go – Good bye

A Man Of Reason

August 3rd, 2011
11:14 am

Norwood didn’t even play last year BullWinkle…even when he did play he has never been a factor in the offense… try to keep up. I know you spent all your brain power coming up with “wo”. Nice one… if you were 4.

DC

August 3rd, 2011
11:16 am

I think they said all this about Peyton Manning as well.before he won a superbowl title….

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
11:30 am

about as racist as one can get… thank for sparing me time to show just ignorant you are.

i hate vick btw.

i’m korean btw.

and you are pure trash.

thanks.

Seen (The Aints) This (get obliterated) B4 (by the only sub-.500 playoff team in the history of pro football)

August 3rd, 2011
11:39 am

Just got season tickets, so I better see more deep throws and screens. Heard rumors on the message board that we could get Osi for a 2nd rounder. Make that happen, and the game vs. the E-Gals should be even more bruising for the visitors.

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
11:44 am

get osi and i’ll shut the heck up. that would be a monster move!

Pauls Johnson

August 3rd, 2011
11:48 am

You sure are Honest Abe

D man

August 3rd, 2011
11:51 am

Sorry for sounding dumb, but who is Osi and what position does he play?

Jay

August 3rd, 2011
11:53 am

Matt Ryan does NOT have the arm strength to consistently throw deep. FACT.

Pauls Johnson

August 3rd, 2011
11:55 am

I say your WRONG Jay,, but we shall see,, no excuses now…

Seen (The Aints) This (get obliterated) B4 (by the only sub-.500 playoff team in the history of pro football)

August 3rd, 2011
11:58 am

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
12:00 pm

Jay – and “Who does”?? My bet is #2 will get the ball to RW, JJ & TG where ever they are on the feild, they will do jus “FINE”!

If that doesn’t suit you, then go watch the “Dream Team” & “CON VICK” – #7 can for sure get the ball down the feild. That being said you can root for the dream team & con vick week 2

Go Falcons

A Man Of Reason

August 3rd, 2011
12:01 pm

People who say Matt Ryan has a weak arm don’t know jack about football. FACT

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
12:04 pm

Jay another “Chunk N’ Duck

Pauls Johnson

August 3rd, 2011
12:08 pm

Vick WILL get hurt,, he runs too much,, And he carries the ball like a loaf of bread,, so i expect him to fumble alot as well,,,, you heard it here first..

D man

August 3rd, 2011
12:15 pm

Teams that get overhyped in the preseason typically bomb. Dallas and Cincy last year is a perfect example. Now Philly. I see a huge letdown in Philly this year…

Osi Umenyiora – bad idea because he is injury prone and not as good as Edwards and Abe… We need CB help more than anything.

Ivan

August 3rd, 2011
12:27 pm

It’s been what, 4-5 years since the Vick-Falcons split? And the Vick trolls are still here posting for their love child? Can anyone say “Obsessive?”

Seen (Matty Melt) This (throw floaters) B4 (that get intercepted for TDs)

August 3rd, 2011
12:43 pm

hope u used ‘expendable’ cash for your season tickets…and hope you stay for the whole game..not many of your falcants fan buddies stick around when the game turns south….

A HIT....

August 3rd, 2011
12:54 pm

Prediction: Eagles will be up by 14 @ the half on Sept 18…Game over! Leave early…..

Matty ICE Meltdown is going to get drilled! Cant run. Avg arm…Pocket Presence is Brutal..Hangs on to the ball too long. Turner the burner gain about 70 lbs in his caboose= 3 steps slower and taking shots in the back field.. Whatcha gonna do Mr. Mularkey with these 3rd and long plays all season long?
8-8, 7-9 …yawn…Ah Matt does not play very well on the road either….He’s not going to like his schedule this season or his record…

A HIT....

August 3rd, 2011
12:57 pm

“Teams that get overhyped in the preseason typically bomb”
Git ready for your 13-3 “FALL-CONS” to stink it up!

Elvis the falcon fan

August 3rd, 2011
1:07 pm

Arm strength isnt everything……..2 words…Jeff George.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
1:15 pm

At “A Hit” – you feel better – now go follow “CON VICK” & “DREAM TEAM” – We’ll see come game 2 – be sure be here to take or give your medicine win or loss
Con Vick – everybody wants to forgive a lair, thief, cheat, criminal dog killer. Hey the guy did the crime and he did the time – so I guess we should say – Oh “CON VICK” thank you for what you did for the Atlanta Falcons, The Falcons Fans and the CITY of ATL……..

Give us ALL a break “A HIT” move on to Philly, that’s where you belong!

We will see who the winner is game 2 mark it down DickH$$D!

Go Falcons

Whats Important

August 3rd, 2011
1:24 pm

A HIT – I believe you must have taken too many hits to the head. Be sure to contribute your brain to the concussion study when you die, that is probably the only time it will ever be able to make a meaningful contribution. You blither away about how terrible Matt Ryan is, quote meaningless statistics about Vick, and somehow forget that the incomparable Michael Vick was never able to string together back to back winning seasons as a starter, and that Matt Ryan has managed to win all three years he has played, and he started as a pure rookie. To say he is not a good game manager is just shows your ignorance. And as for those that say Philly “forgave” Mike Vick and will reap the reward of that forgiveness, they had nothing to forgive him for. He didn’t screw them over like he did the fans in Atlanta. So just take yourself to an Eagles blog and talk about how Michael Vick is going to take the Eagles to the promised land, just like you said at the beginning of every year he played in Atlanta. Maybe it will, maybe it won’t, but what he does has nothing to do with Matt Ryan and his ability as a quarterback. Matt Ryan didn’t take Vick’s job away. There were three (3) quarterbacks between Vick and Ryan, so why all the hatred for Ryan. Reverse racism anyone.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
1:26 pm

Do I sound bitter over “CON VICK”, hell YES I am!

The guy has talent “PERIOD”!

The guy is a lair & cheat “PERIOD”!

“CON VICK” – He would whether tell a blant lie when the truth will do!

Just ask Plaxico – that idiot doesn’t need to apologize anymore “WHY” because he told the truth from the beginnig…………….

I truely hope the FALCONS kick the living “She-EYE-it” out of the Eaglettes when they come to town week 2, and you know what even if the FALCONS by chance lose the game –

“I WILL STILL LOVE THEM & REMAIN A LOYAL FAN!

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

John

August 3rd, 2011
2:02 pm

Do Falcons fans troll other newspaper sports blogs? I understand smack talk, but don’t you Philly fans need to go and vomit on little girls or something instead of mashing F5 repeatedly on ajc.com?

Not the falcons

August 3rd, 2011
2:05 pm

True fal-can’t fan- keeping dreaming dude, you will be crying your eyes out by the end of October. Everybody in the country knows Atlanta pro teams as loserville. Only one championship and that was the braves years ago. You and I both know, the falc-cants will never win a super bowl. If they didn’t win it after going 13-3 last year and being the number one seed, what makes you think they will win it this year. My eagles or better, the packers are better and the saints or loaded. The bucks are up and coming.

A Hit...

August 3rd, 2011
2:07 pm

Randy Moss has been made an offer by the Eagles? Are you kidding? Another Pro-bowler! WOW!!!!!!

A Hit...

August 3rd, 2011
2:19 pm

Eagles 52, FALL-CONS 18

Not the falcons

August 3rd, 2011
2:21 pm

I’ve never seen a division foe (fan) such as the fal-cants hate on a rival like you guys hate on new orleans. Oh I know why, they will always be mentioned as super bowl champions. But then again, I know why. Your team is one of a handful never to win a super bowl, including my eagles. Let’s make a bet, which team gets it’s first super bowl win. With Vick as our QB, I like our chances better. See you guys in week two. Eagles will prevail, over the turd birds.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
3:14 pm

Hello: All the teenagers on this blog need to go!

ASHCAN: Fact are Facts! Re: Your “CON VICK” – NOT ONE STATEMENT ON THIS BLOG IS FALSE!

Not the falcons: Please be here win or lose following week 2

Go Falcons

ATL Observer

August 3rd, 2011
3:17 pm

>>>>Gatorman said: I disagree with the analogy completely. Gunslinger mentality is great for highlights, but seldom wins championships. However, the offense needs to get out the dink and dunk play calling from Mularkey.<<< <———– THIS

It doesn't have to be a game of extremes; a WELL-BALANCED offense will help win championships.

Hopefully Julio will remedy that. While Mularkey drove me nuts with his over-conservative playcalling last year, it didn't help that Roddy was the only person anyone bought as a deep threat. If Julio works hard and lives up to his pedigree, it could provide the needed shakeup.

Re: the adequacy of Ryan's arm, I keep saying it: tell me with a straight face that his arm is any weaker than Brady's. THEN tell me with a straight face that you'd have a problem with Tom Brady QBing your team.

I actually think the Falcons are going to be in tough at the start of the year: trying to add balance to their offense but doing it against REALLY tough opponents (Chicago, Philly and Green Bay in the first five weeks). But honestly, as long as they went into the bye week with a 3-4 record, I'd feel fine because I think if everyone plays up to potential and gets into a rhythm with a new BALANCED offense, the post-bye Falcons could be something really special.

A Hit...

August 3rd, 2011
3:29 pm

Whos gonna cover Moss? Last year the FALL-CONS were down by 21 pts with about 8 mins left in the 2nd qtr with Kevin Freakin Cobb quarter backing the EAGLES! Dang Charley..

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
3:35 pm

Can’t you read, no “teenieBOPPERS” allowed on this blog.

A Hit – Did the Eaglettes blog send you our way because you are NOT of age to be a part??

You little darlin’ – Give us all break go back to you hole………………………..

Shawn

August 3rd, 2011
3:45 pm

I know Matt Ryan has arm strength to throw it deep, but he doesn’t have a lot of zip on it like aaron rodgers or manning. The faster you get it over to your receiver the better, lot of times last year I remember when he would throw it to the outside receiver and the ball just got there slow and a lot of times that allowed the defenders to pick him off and that is exactly what happened in the Playoffs against Green Bay

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
3:54 pm

Shawn – fast players can make a quarterback look good and bad.

Last year the playoff game with GB/ Arron Rodgers & offense litterly took our defense apart! That momentum alone spark the GB entire team – “My hat is off to them CONGRATS all the way”

Hopefully TD & MS have that issue answered this upcoming season

Go Falcons

ASHCAN.

August 3rd, 2011
4:06 pm

LOLOLOL to all the insecure bloggers.@ whats important LOLOLOL.

coo coo bird fan

August 3rd, 2011
4:49 pm

I’m telling you right now, the surprise of the season is coming in the form of Kerry Meir, wr. He is a Wes Welker type, catch anything receiver. I’m worried about the D, specifically the secondary and the lack of depth. Owens was embarasing in the playoffs and lack of speed is an obvious problem. We dont have home field advantage in the dome against track stars in Philly and GB. Can’t wait for new stadium…

Shawn

August 3rd, 2011
4:56 pm

Hey Falcon Fan. I watched the whole game in the playoffs and it looked like the whole momentum was on our side in the beginning, but our defense never got off the field especially after we ran it back for TD. The Defensive game plan was good but we couldn’t bring him down over and over again. Plus our corners are too small and the get picked on a lot throughout the season. We desperately need to run more no huddle because everytime we run the no huddle we score points like crazy, but when we run on 1st and 2nd and get 2 yards because Turner is too slow do any lateral moves, I know I’m complaining a little but I wouldn’t trade our team for any other.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
5:00 pm

Man i hope you are right about Kerry Meir, I really liked him before he was injured last season. Also what is the status on Shann Schillinger?

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
5:07 pm

Shawn, I agree with all points. I thought during that game – we need healthy Jerious Norrowood. That Packer offense “Rodgers” ate us up!!!

Really if we stay healthy this season – no reason why we shouldn’t go 10 to 13 wins – this upcoming season is difinetly tougher than 2010.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
5:12 pm

Sorry i meant Jerious Norwood

Von

August 3rd, 2011
5:13 pm

The birds will be highly disappointed….Why? because they’re trying to fix something that ain’t broke and constantly hearing clowns say “they need to turn Ryan loose! They won 13 games last year. They were the best ball control team in the NFL. Now…as Gonzalez describes the offense as a “Ferrari”! Are you kidding me. You can’t just decide you want to be like the Packers and Saints after you were tops in all the NFC last year. These guys just don’t get it…DEFENSE wins championships! When the Saints won the Superbowl it wasn’t the offense that won the game, their defense did. It wasn’t the Packers great offense but the defense who slowed the Steelers. C’mon man. Do what you do best and stick to it. Look what the Eagles and Saints did, they bulked up their defense like crazy. You don’t have a trigger man like Brees and Rodgers. Sorry man but the birds will get plucked this season. It just makes no sense.

Ivan

August 3rd, 2011
5:26 pm

Von makes good points.

If anything should be “turned loose on opponents”, it should be the defense. Rodgers picked them apart when they played cover 2, or any other coverage scheme. He only showed signs of weakness when pressured. It’s why I was hoping they would bring in some attackers on defense. The acquisition of Edwards is nice, but Dahl was allowed to walk.

TrishaDishaWarEagle

August 3rd, 2011
7:17 pm

@Ashcan

I hate vick because he abused and murdered animals of far greater value than himself..dogs.

I am prejudiced though, and with good reason. Look at the ghetto cesspool our stadium sits in..and look at how going to prison only upped the dog killers stature in that same said community. Now that plaxico has been in prison I am sure we will see a lot of his jerseys worn by vick lovers too.

Choke these 13 Wins

August 3rd, 2011
8:31 pm

Choke these 13 Wins

August 3rd, 2011
8:37 pm

Please stop all the hating on Ryan people this is not about race.Ryan and Vick r both QB,but different styles.Ryan has enuff arm strenght 2 win and he is a very smart QB who is a leader,Vick just a great athelete who does it with wheels,not a bright player.Vick is with the Eagles now and we have Ryan,so stop all the talk and hate.Be a Falcon fan or an Eagle fan and decide on the field.GO FALCONS !!!!!!

Jeff Schultz

August 3rd, 2011
9:06 pm

Amazing how some of you folks can’t keep race out of blog commenting. I’m deleting and banning.

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:10 pm

@Choke very well put!

Screw & choke on “CON VICK” , he did not do ATL any favors!

Second week game 2 “CON VICK” goes down!

Go Falcons!

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:12 pm

@JS, I second that statement no RRRRRRRacismmmmmm on this blog!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:13 pm

Jus don’t ban me!

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:15 pm

Wait i am having another sip of this Mexican gasoline ther ya go, tank ya…………….Very much

True Falcon Fan

August 3rd, 2011
9:26 pm

Vamanos ATL FALCONS mucho grande de season 2011 el grande NFL team of de ciento uno de sade Dios te ALL!

Georgia Prison Colony 16th Century

August 3rd, 2011
9:33 pm

Oh that explains much…Yep…

Matt "CHOKE" Ryan

August 3rd, 2011
9:51 pm

The last time the Falcants beat the Eagles, Vick was the Atlanta qb…

That’s sorry :)

Also, the Falcants haven’t won a playoff game since 2004 with Vick again

Another SORRY trait :)

CHOKE SUCKS :)

A Hit...

August 3rd, 2011
10:02 pm

honest_abe

August 3rd, 2011
9:53 am

“4 games against nfc west. those teams won 5,6,7,7 games. the played the panthers twice who won 2 games. they played the browns who won 4 games. they played the bengals who won 4 games. ???????????? two of their 3 losses came against backup qb’s. and you’re trying to tell me their schedule wasn’t easy? every tough game was at home which they squeaked by. hey i give them credit for pulling those out. but they had an easy schedule face it.”

O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D————->

Whats Important

August 3rd, 2011
10:44 pm

Sorry you decided to pull my last post Jeff. Just responding in kind to one that had been left up for quite some time. No profanity, must tit for tat.

Whats Important

August 3rd, 2011
10:50 pm

Jeff I see my post is awaiting moderation. And here I thought I was being moderate. I’ll remember in the future the sensitivities of the people on the blog, hopefully they’ll remember mine.

Redoubt

August 4th, 2011
1:33 am

With Cam in Charlotte, the division has a new star for the media to focus. Matty will be forgotten this year… as will be Drew. Old gold is what we have… the new glue will be wearing a Panty uniform so, we get a break from the sports goblins.

The Iceman will be fine so lang as we can protect him up front and get our D to do ore to shut the bad guys down.

Is it football season yet?

Bobby Knight

August 4th, 2011
9:47 am

Get Jonathan Dwyer from the Steelers to replace Snelling. He and Turner would be a great one-two punch.

WHO DAT BLACK

August 4th, 2011
9:59 am

Last year’s playoff loss to Green Bay stuck with him through the offseason. He had two key first-half interceptions against the Packers by Tramon Williams: one from the Green Bay 26 when he attempted to hit Michael Jenkins in the end zone (the score was tied 14-14) and the other, a crusher, when he misfired on a sideline pass to White just before halftime, and Williams picked it off and returned it 70 yards for a touchdown (make it 28-14).

Hey filthy birds,

Another example of how predictable your offense is. The pick-six wasn’t off target. Teams have watched Matt Ryan’s two minute drill the past 3 years so much that they know what type of routes to expect (another issue is that he’s been in that position too many times, but that’s Mularkey’s fault, see DOL’s article). Williams, who is an average CB at best, jumped the route like Tracy Porter in SB44 (shameless plug) and stole his lunch money. That play broke the game wide open. In short, go for six instead of killing the clock and hoping for three.

Break a wing!!!!

Elvis the falcon fan

August 4th, 2011
10:25 am

Joe Montana, Ken Stabler, Joe Thiesman, Jim Plunkett, ….not one of these guys has a cannon for an arm, but they do have some rings between them…..Dan Marino, Jeff George, Mike Vick…..all have cannons and no rings. ESPN has a feature on top 10 football myths, one of them is that you must have a big arm to win in the NFL.

ICE Melt

August 5th, 2011
4:18 pm

VIC on 97.5FM Today! He’s ready ta go!! He said Ryan crossed the line talking smack!
Eagles 52, Jets 24!!
Do EAGLES eat Falcons for Lunch? We’ll see Week 2 on NBC..

Word on the street, Randy Moss was seen eating in Philly Last night at the Capitol Grill Restaurant!

Oh no the Falcons secondary is going to get lit up!