Falcons win the Super Bowl! (or so says Sports Illustrated)
If Peter King is correct, Arthur Blank and Mike Smith will celebrate a Falcons Super Bowl win. (Curtis Compton/AJC)
The Falcons ended last season with a 48-21 playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers. They will end this season with a 24-20 win over the San Diego Chargers . . . in the Super Bowl.
That bold prediction comes from neither a season ticket holder nor owner Arthur Blank but rather veteran NFL writer Peter King of Sports Illustrated. King’s column in Sports Illustrated’s NFL preview issue doesn’t yet appear online, but S.I. publicists sent out a link to his predictions. You can click it and see his division predictions in entirety, but here are the highlights:
♦ NFC division champions: Philadelphia (East), Green Bay (North), New Orleans (South), St. Louis (West). NFC wild cards: Falcons and Detroit.
Peter King had the Super Bowl teams right (but the winner wrong) in last year's S.I. preview issue.
♦ AFC division champions: New England (East), Pittsburgh (North), Indianapolis (South), San Diego (West). AFC wild cards: Baltimore and N.Y. Jets.
♦ NFC playoff results: First round: Falcons over St. Louis; Philadelphia over Detroit. Divisional: Falcons over Green Bay; New Orleans over Philadelphia. Conference championship: Falcons over New Orleans (26-17).
♦ AFC playoff results: First round: Baltimore over Indianapolis; Pittsburgh over N.Y. Jets. Divisional: Baltimore over New England; San Diego over Pittsburgh. Conference championship: San Diego over Baltimore (22-16).
♦ Super Bowl XLVI: Falcons 24, Chargers 20.
S.I. has six regional covers for its NFL preview issue. The one in these parts pictures Falcons middle linebacker Curtis Lofton.
For what it’s work, King correctly predicted Green Bay and Pittsburgh would reach the Super Bowl last season. But he had the Steelers winning.
So how realistic do you think this is?
By Jeff Schultz
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237 comments Add your comment
DOUBLE G
August 30th, 2011
11:24 am
Gee, Jeff, do I get a “first” from you?
DOUBLE G
August 30th, 2011
11:26 am
And on the subject of firsts (me and the Falcons), I wouldn’t hold my breath. Surely King has seen our defense in action, and the inept pass defense. Now, maybe Edwards will make a big difference. But until he proves to be the playmaker as touted, there are no grand predictions like Peter King’s in MY fortune cookie.
Ted M
August 30th, 2011
11:30 am
who knows… but it pretty cool
Jeff Schultz
August 30th, 2011
11:30 am
Double G — I’m not into that whole “firsts” thing but I’ll give you an official cyber pat on the back. How’s that?
Ted M
August 30th, 2011
11:30 am
Is the GT vs. WC game on TV?
Ole Smoky
August 30th, 2011
11:30 am
Hope it’s not the “kiss” of death…
DC
August 30th, 2011
11:35 am
JS you two writers need to plan out your blogs a little better…but from what I’ve seen so far in preseason from these guys its not likely that they will make the playoffs let alone win a SB…
Prove me wrong Falcons..prove me wrong!
rduck
August 30th, 2011
11:35 am
Ted M- being carried on ESPN 3
DOUBLE G
August 30th, 2011
11:36 am
Thanks, Jeff. I feel better now.
rduck
August 30th, 2011
11:38 am
bold prediction considering the way the offense has had trouble putting up points and the pass defense still suspect. not a bad choice but both the Falcons and the Chargers seem to melt down in the playoffs. also, when was the last time we beat Philly?
Bill
August 30th, 2011
11:47 am
Jeff as I put on your Mark’s Blog I think the Falcons secondary will be the undoing of them.
Patriots-35
Saints-30
honest_abe
August 30th, 2011
11:51 am
when’s the last time a run of the mill coordinator ended up winning the super bowl as a head coach? mike smith is a good organizer but he’s far from a being known as one of the more innovative minds in the game.
Ted M
August 30th, 2011
11:53 am
thx rduck
Stl Falcon
August 30th, 2011
11:55 am
You and Mr. Bradley compare number of hits? This ought to be a real bragging rights blog between the two of you.
Call it like it is
August 30th, 2011
11:56 am
Hmmmmm sales in the south for SI must be low, that would be the only reason for this silly prediction. I support the Falcons, but they are not on par with the likes of Green Bay, Steelers, New England…Still got a little ways to go.
Potter
August 30th, 2011
11:58 am
ESPN3.com most of the season for Georgia Tech.
TV stations are well awarer that only a few thousand fans in the world give more than a silent fart’s worth of s— about Tech football.
Plus they know that the majority of those few thousand are more than likely going to skip watching Tech in order to fulfill their obsession with all things UGA football.
Hope you have a good internet connection. That’s the only way you get to see your bees.
Dawglasville
August 30th, 2011
12:08 pm
Keep waiting to see who draws the short straw and has to write the Vick piece.
Dawglasville
August 30th, 2011
12:10 pm
My guess is one of you was suppose to write about Vick and your both playing dumb to avoid it. “No, you told ME to write the SI story.”
Ivan
August 30th, 2011
12:11 pm
Someone get Peter King on the phone! This is outrageous! Hasn’t he seen the expert predictions on this blog? They easily point out the Falcons will stink this year based on them missing the Preseason Playoffs!
…and no..I couldn’t keep a straight face while writing that.
Get Real
August 30th, 2011
12:12 pm
Peter King may want to consider entering rehab. This team still has big problems on defense and a somewhat inconsistent offense. This year’s schedule is much tougher than last year.
They have a shot at the wildcard but that’s about all. Don’t expect them to win a second round playoff game.
teamguy
August 30th, 2011
12:13 pm
That would be nice. .right now, I’d settle for a beat writer that isn’t two days behind other media outlets in reporting on a team that he’s paid to report on. .did the Falcons sign James Sanders?
And I would settle for a "beat writer"...
August 30th, 2011
12:17 pm
…who would not pander to the “first” crowd – Schultz says he is not into it but plays along by recognizing the guy’s request – sheeesh…
Bear
August 30th, 2011
12:22 pm
Peter King is a smart man. Go dirty birds!!
Kane337
August 30th, 2011
12:28 pm
Peter King correctly predicted Green Bay vs the Steelers last year. I don’t recall who he picked winning it. I hoped to GOD he is right again. If he is I will hunt him down and give him a big hug.
Kane337
August 30th, 2011
12:29 pm
Sorry, it would help if I read the last paragraph. He had the Steeler’s winning it.
Queensbridge
August 30th, 2011
12:31 pm
Peter King must be smoking crack. Atlanta may have a difficult time making playoffs with their schedule. I hope King is correct, but if I were a betting man I’d bet against that prediction.
Runner-
August 30th, 2011
12:34 pm
It’s almost never who King picks it to win, so thanks for jynxing us…
Runner-
August 30th, 2011
12:35 pm
Kane, he picked the Steelers
rward
August 30th, 2011
12:36 pm
I wish I could believe it but I think Peter King is smoking dope. Have you ever noticed when they show other teams offensive highlights there is about a one in four chance it will be against the Falcons D? This has been true for years. I just watched Sportscenter and they had last weeks highlights. Sure enough two of the ten showed the Falcons secondary getting torched. We will not win 10 games unless we improve or bring in some help….
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
12:42 pm
If not the Falcons, then who? Who in the NFC is better on paper besides Green Bay? The Eagles still have a lot to prove on their O and D line. Saints are looking tough. I think it’s a pretty small pool of teams atop the NFC this year. Cowboys, Giants, Bears, havent shown me anything to think they’ll win it.
Pauls Johnson
August 30th, 2011
12:42 pm
I will withhold judgement until Joe Tess weighs in……. He’s such a visionary,,,
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
12:43 pm
My point being.. that its a safe but “headline” guess.
JSS
August 30th, 2011
12:45 pm
You have a better of getting another NHL franchise!
Did you get in on that toll yesterday? Hey, where’s my Apple Pan burger?
ezra
August 30th, 2011
12:46 pm
If the Falcons win the superbown does that mean on the NFL network we will get to see more teams than NY, Philly, GB, or will see more of the NFC south. I cannot remember watching a NFC south team that was not programmed for 2am.
JASon
August 30th, 2011
12:55 pm
The Lions are going to the playoffs this year. That is happening.
Jborodawg
August 30th, 2011
12:55 pm
“Ivin@1211″…good one!
Yeahsure @ 1242…. good point. If they play smart football and get a lucky bounce here and there…then, why not?
Who’s usually right, P. King or Vegas?
Engy
August 30th, 2011
1:01 pm
“For what it’s work”? Your communications degree really paid off for you, buddy.
oldfart
August 30th, 2011
1:04 pm
SI preseason poll of 2008 had UGA number 1. Death needs a breath mint.
Joycee Banicheck
August 30th, 2011
1:14 pm
First you copy Mark B, his blog posted at 10:55, then you copy him with a “atta boy” on first post. Is there really even a need for you at the AJC anymore? Hack…
Billboy
August 30th, 2011
1:22 pm
Anything can happen but, for Peter King to be right about the SB, The Falcs must be holding back some very potent wrinkles we haven’t seen (a keep full pressure on no huddle offense with JJ scoring three times per game?) or the second coming of Jack Tatum and a 6 ft. 3 in version of Grimes hiding in the wings. I just don’t see it, but hope springs eternal even if Mularkey somehow continues as OC. Go Team!
Najeh Davenpoop
August 30th, 2011
1:23 pm
“The Lions are going to the playoffs this year. That is happening.”
I agree.
kerryb
August 30th, 2011
1:34 pm
The Falcons are as talented as anyone so I don’t think it is a BOLD prediction.
poopsie
August 30th, 2011
1:40 pm
Peter King might be right if we didn,t have to play anybody in the AFC.But I think we will have to.It may be a long year.
English Teacher
August 30th, 2011
1:40 pm
“Falcons Predicted to Win Super Bowl” sounds more like a headline from the Weekly World News than the AJC or SI.
True Atlantan
August 30th, 2011
1:48 pm
In your DREAMS …. this is Vick’s year!
flying solo
August 30th, 2011
1:50 pm
Please… Falcons will be watching the superbowl not playing in it
kevi
August 30th, 2011
1:51 pm
Mr. King needs to be drug tested
Delbert D.
August 30th, 2011
1:53 pm
Jeff, do you work for the Journal and Bradley the Constitution? How does the sports editor allow the two main writers to cover the same story as it breaks?
Stinger2
August 30th, 2011
1:55 pm
The Falcons have about the same chance to win the Super Bowl as the Braves do to win the World Series. Zero
Rod Paradise
August 30th, 2011
1:55 pm
Vick will be hurt this season. 100 million yeah right.
BFBryan
August 30th, 2011
1:57 pm
GO FALCONS!! Now if we could just get Vick back them Dirty Birds would have the star power too!
I’m glad they were picked. Some say it’s the “kiss of death” but heck, when have they EVER been picked? Have they won the Super Bowl? No. They may actually win with being picked. What do they have to lose? NOTHING because they have never won it.
Mike is Back
August 30th, 2011
1:59 pm
If we can get off the field on third down, than yes I agree with Mr. King’s prediction. ..Oh, instead of a wildcard…we beat those AINT”S for the NFC South title.lol
wes
August 30th, 2011
2:00 pm
Not as bad as the Madden Curse or the SI Cover curse.
It’s just that once you begin being talked up along with the likes of the Steelers/Patriots/Colts, etc… it’s probably not a bad thing.
james
August 30th, 2011
2:02 pm
So let me see if I got this right: the Falcons path to the Superbowl will involve going on the road in beating both Green Bay and New Orleans? For one that would mean that the Superbowl champ, two years running, will have been a Wild Card team. The odds of that happening two consecutive years reside in the rarefied air of winning a state lottery. Secondly, let’s consider the source. SI has not been relevant since the heyday of weekly print editions of sports magazines – way back when, when SI competed for newsstand sales with the Sporting News, Sport and Inside Sports! (Anybody remember any of these? I remember when the Sporting News was a newsprint tabloid, and 90% of their coverage went to MLB, even in the winter!). Anyway, I digress. The Falcons defense will continue to play soft, get burned early and often and the running game is going to falter this year – BIG TIME! I love the Falcons. I am a 13-year season ticket holder, but I’m sorry, they simply don’t have what it takes to be World Champs.
MoeHoward
August 30th, 2011
2:02 pm
Its really amazing! Right when you think you’ve heard it all, then you are picked to win a superbowl with essentially the same team you had the year before. Look, if the Packers could crush us 48-21 in a playoff game that means everything last year, whats to say that Vick and the Eagles wont obliterate us 63-7 when its for all the marbles in a playoff game. ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS. ATLANTA TEAMS ARE CURSED AND THERE IS NOTHING THAT ANYONE CAN DO ABOUT IT. UNDER BOBBY COX THE BRAVES HAD ENOUGH TALENT AND SHOULD HAVE WON FIVE TITLES–THEY MANAGED ONLY ONE. The Falcons under Dan Reeves made it to the superbowl, only to look like fools when Eugene Robinson screwed up literally only days before the big game. The Falcons then lost to Denver in the superbowl to a team the same Falcons had blown away during the regular season. The Hawks, Thrashers, Flames and Georgia Bulldogs have similar stories about how close they came, but coughed up dirt because they couldnt claim the prized championship trophies. The only way to save atlanta sports franchises from themselves, the best advice i could give is SELL ALL THE TEAMS AND GET THEM OUT OF HERE. Atlanta will never win a thing as long as there is a CURSE SURROUNDING THE CLUBS.
Reggie
August 30th, 2011
2:03 pm
I’m down with my Falcons 100%. But if we don’t fix our “watered down” secondary we won’t be winning a game in the regular season. Let along playoffs or super bowl
Wink
August 30th, 2011
2:05 pm
I am a longtime Falcons fan, but the SB is not in our future. Two reasons why we want make it:
1. Our offense is built between the 20’s, we have a melt down of creativity in the Red Zone; that why we are so focused on the explosive plays of 20 yards or more…we need the YAC to score. Too many field goals…look it up!
2. Our defense can’t defend 3 down and long; I would much rather the opposition have 3rd down and 3 than 3rd down and 15. We can’t get pressure and the secondary can’t defend. This is the reason we need a ball control offense to keep the opposing offense off the field.
Should these two things change…then I will drink the Falcon cool aid…since we are dreaming!!!
Joe
August 30th, 2011
2:06 pm
I’m not sure about the Falcons going to the SuperBowl, on that same point i’m not sure about anyone going to the superbowl but (as the saying goes) thats why we play the game. I do like the sound of it though. To all the Vick (in your face) people, the falcons have moved on, falcon fans have moved on, Vick has moved on, eagle fans who didnt want him at first has moved on, what are you waiting on?
Pauls Johnson
August 30th, 2011
2:06 pm
Wow Moe,, thats pretty grim stuff there,, think i’ll go hang myself in the garage now….
Parade of Knuckleheads
August 30th, 2011
2:07 pm
The Sports Illustrated Magazine jinx has the Falcons a Wild Card becoming Super Bowl Champs.
They have the Saints winning the NFC South and losing to the Wildcard Falcons.
—– SI is wierd again.
3000
August 30th, 2011
2:08 pm
uhhhhh.. Did they miss last season’s playoff “performance”? Falcons will always break hearts, but I’ll keep watching. It’s just what I do.
RP
August 30th, 2011
2:09 pm
Can’t believe people are taking this seriously. If you read this article closely, King also picked the Lions to make the playoffs. Which should tell you everything you need to know about the validity of his so-called prediction. If the Lions make the playoffs, I’m picking the Lakers to win the World Series. (Scratching your head? That’s the point.) Peter King is not only a sportswriter, he’s obviously a comedian. I agree the Falcons are a playoff-caliber team but they’re nowhere near Super Bowl contenders.
UGASlobberknocker
August 30th, 2011
2:09 pm
Too bad they are always wrong. Maybe this prediction would look more credible if the opponent wasnt the Chargers. I know everyone loves Philip Rivers..me , I dont think he makes his teram better nor can he win the big game. Think about their seasons every yr..up and down no consistency.
Hope they are right on the Falcons though
kreedham
August 30th, 2011
2:11 pm
Jinx’s, curse’s, Madden, SI….geez people it’s just a prediction and that won’t get them in nor keep them out.
Cocern
August 30th, 2011
2:11 pm
When has SI ever get anything correct.
After all I did see one game last year against greenbay. I am not a believer.
duece coupe
August 30th, 2011
2:11 pm
The Raiders and Steelers won the Super Bowl as Wildcards,
but overall it’s kind of rare.
John
August 30th, 2011
2:11 pm
Now wild-card teams are being picked to win the Super Bowl like the Pack last year? That doesn’t happen but once a century.
Dr. Warren
August 30th, 2011
2:12 pm
Why are so many people on this blog so negative about the Falcons? Enjoy it, how about it? Only one city of 31 (NY has 2 teams) has their team picked to win the SB by the most famous NFL writer. Can’t you just back and marvel how far we’ve come since Petrino and Vick left us for dead?
John
August 30th, 2011
2:14 pm
Basically the writer picked the Falcons to lose to the top tier teams, beat the lower tier teams, hope the top tier teams beat each other so the Falcons can squeak into a wild card spot and win the NFC…..then win the Super Bowl.
Fish Bisch
August 30th, 2011
2:15 pm
Falcons- Supper Bowl bound. Has a nice ring to it.
BlueEagle
August 30th, 2011
2:16 pm
He obviously hasn’t seen our defensive backfield at all…Unless we beat everybody 50-49, this is unlikely this season. That said, Go Falcons!
hbcuclassics
August 30th, 2011
2:17 pm
HBCU Classics
2011 Pre-season
All-Americans
Offense
QB Stan Jennings, Albany
RB Marcus Wright, Tx South
RB Nic Cooper, WSSU
RB Mike Mayhew, NC A&T
WR Justin Wilson, Del St
WR Marcellos Wilder, Jackson
TE Tony Davis, FVSU
OL Terren Jones, Ala St
OL Sanford Banks, Grambling
OL Kendall Noble, Norfolk
OL Natiel Curry, Bethune
OL Alex Monroe, Bethune
P Ronnie Partridge, Stillman
http://www.hbcuclassics.com
Booger Beer
August 30th, 2011
2:22 pm
Let’s just get to the games and picks, ok?
time to sack schultz
And without reading story, I see Techno nerds coach johnson actually said something sane and I agree with…..ex-college stars should be punished for their actions!
BFBryan
August 30th, 2011
2:23 pm
@ MoeHoward August 30th, 2011 2:02 pm
“Its really amazing! Right when you think you’ve heard it all, then you are picked to win a superbowl with essentially the same team you had the year before. Look, if the Packers could crush us 48-21 in a playoff game that means everything last year, whats to say that Vick and the Eagles wont obliterate us 63-7 when its for all the marbles in a playoff game. ”
Weren’t the Falcons 13-3 and only one team had a better record? Now mind you they lost at the worst possible time but don’t good team lose, even sometime to teams that they are better than? Wow no faith in the home town team, that is actually a good team! The great thing is that the DO have essentially the same team. Don’t have to train a bunch of new players and have them get in where they fit in. The same group that killed teams last year are going to do it this year AND now they have post season experience to not make the same mistakes as last year.
GO FALCONS!! Prove the haters wrong!!
Pauls Johnson
August 30th, 2011
2:23 pm
Mr. Warren you are correct sir,,, its been an incredible turn around… lets try to enjoy it…
Not in My Opinion
August 30th, 2011
2:23 pm
They will barely make last place in the Division playing like they have been……and here is hoping that Vick has a career ending injury soon ……what a punk and thug……once and always!
D.J. Mase
August 30th, 2011
2:23 pm
Falcons schedule is brutal….If they can come out of it 10 – 6, their chance is as good as anyone, but it looks like Green Bay is hitting on all switches and they are still young, and look for Tampa Bay to raise sand too…
Mike
August 30th, 2011
2:24 pm
I knew there was a reason I cancelled my SI subscription years ago.
Booger Beer
August 30th, 2011
2:26 pm
Is Julio turning into a dropper? At least all the Matty haters found out Matty could throw the long ball on target…but he has to have someone be able to catch it!!…got that Julio…
welcome to the pros…honeymoons over.
SWAT Native
August 30th, 2011
2:27 pm
@ James – I remember when Inside Sports said the Falcons would be the team of the 80’s. Didn’t quite work out.
npgator
August 30th, 2011
2:27 pm
Lions are going all the way this year!
Gary
August 30th, 2011
2:28 pm
I dont get the national fascination with the Saints again. I think the Falcons proved last year we were the better team yet we still get no love in the Division race? I think the off season moves and the great draft choice of JJ makes us even better and the Saints moves no match for Atlanta. We’ll go to the playoffs as division winners, not wild card, then run the table. By the way, those measuring our defense by the preseason performance need to realize these games are not a true assessment of how teams will play during the season so get over it already.
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
2:31 pm
@MoeHoward
how is this the same team we had last year? Fans complained about Jenkins… we went and got arguably the top WR prospect in Julio. Fans complained about the pass rush… we went and got arguably the top DE FA in Edwards. Correct me if im wrong, but that only adds to the NFC #1 seed from last year. Preseason records mean nothing folks. We go through this every year and it always proves to be correct.
Didnt the Lions wins their preseason games a couple years back and go on to make history?
Geaux Braves
August 30th, 2011
2:32 pm
Saints – 24
Patriots – 21
Sorry Falcons, but yall will never win a Super Bowl.
Justin
August 30th, 2011
2:33 pm
@ Rod Paradise
What does Vick have to do wit this blog? Vick wasn’t even mentioned. How about spewing your hatred on another blog. IDIOT!
james
August 30th, 2011
2:34 pm
npgator – as a Michigan native, I would love to see the Lions and Falcons face-off in the NFC Championship game. Equally, a Tigers-Braves World Series would be outstanding – I would love to see it! But make no mistake, I will be rooting for MY Braves and MY Falcons in both cases. I grew up in Michigan, but I live in Atlanta now – and unlike a countless number of others who moved to ATL – I always pull for OUR teams, no matter what!
happy, happy, joy, joy
August 30th, 2011
2:35 pm
Cracked up at the “white” Vick…premise of article is what would people think if he were white? He would still be a sick, f’ing, sadistic, low-life, dog killer surrounded by sick, f’ing, sadistic, low-lifes.
That answer your question espn?!
#2 and falcons overated
August 30th, 2011
2:36 pm
Put the pipe down. SS is just like standard and poors down graded. They must have a pay off first to win~!! and ryan will be hurt this season . he is hurt now with a weak arm!!
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
2:37 pm
Ok. I wont be lazy. Here it is. Lions 2008 preseason:
New York Giants W 13-10
at Cincinnati Bengals W 27-10
Cleveland Browns W 26-6
at Buffalo Bills W 14-6
How did that turn out? Preseason is Preseason.
Mike
August 30th, 2011
2:37 pm
@ Gary
You and Peter King must have the same “supplier.”
The Birds have Indy, Green Bay, Philly and New Orleans (twice). Not to mention Houston. If that front four can’t rush the passer (and all indications are that it won’t) the secondary is gonna have its arse handed to them.
Eagles deserve
August 30th, 2011
2:38 pm
what they pay for…..trash
LOL FALLS OUT LAUGHING
August 30th, 2011
2:39 pm
What, LOL, FALLS OUT LAUGHING… NOT
Coach13
August 30th, 2011
2:40 pm
That’s all that is, a prediction. Their D isn’t good enough and the Chargers won’t make it either. I predict I win the lottery this Friday.
Jam
August 30th, 2011
2:40 pm
@happy, happy..you forgot dumb as a brick, too!
SWAT Native
August 30th, 2011
2:41 pm
@ Mike – Other than Indy (which is on the way down BTW), the Falcons played those teams last year and went 13-3. I would rather play Indy and Houston than Pittsburgh and Baltimore.
JSH
August 30th, 2011
2:42 pm
While we are predicting: Georgia wins the SEC
Tech wins the ADD
Braves win division
Columbus High wins state champion
All done with a straight face!
JSH
August 30th, 2011
2:42 pm
Tech wins the ACC
Pass Coverage
August 30th, 2011
2:43 pm
It begins and ends with pass coverage. Top 20 in the league, maybe. 21-on, nope.
Wink
August 30th, 2011
2:44 pm
@Booger Beer – Julio will be fine.
Just as much as we would like to think Matt can make that throw consistently, then Julio will consistently catch it. Ryan has been throwing high all preseason, not only to Julio but everyone. Preseason is for practice, I will withhold judgement on Matt Ryan, until practice is over. We will wait for that opening game, then we can welcome them all back to the NFL!
All aboard for the One game, One Unit…Falcons We’re One Tour!
M
August 30th, 2011
2:47 pm
If they do go,,,, I will be there!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ohhhh yeeeaaaa baaaaby!!!!! Bring it!!
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
2:51 pm
For all the haters saying that we wont be able to stop Green Bay, do you not remember that we beat them in the regular season? I guess Green Bay should have thrown in the towel during the play-offs since one defeat means you have a sorry team.
I guess the Jets should have called it a season when they got humiliated by New England. Far worse than our loss to GB. Hold on… didnt the Jets beat NE later?
Fake fans please get off the bandwagon.
Mike
August 30th, 2011
2:51 pm
@ SWAT Native
Falcons 2010 Wins: Arizona, NO (split), San Fran, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Tampa Bay (2x), St. Louis, Carolina (2x), Baltimore, GB and Seattle.
You really want to stand behind a 13-3 record with these wins?
Justin
August 30th, 2011
2:53 pm
@ jam…..what is your IQ?
I’m sure you’re not smart enough to survive a two years in prison and then come back into the NFL and secure a $100 million dollar contract. How’s that for being dumb? LMAO!
#2 and falcons overated
August 30th, 2011
2:54 pm
what do writers know about football. This may be who they want to win. ss on mushrooms juice!! But it sells papers to want to bees to read to make them feel good!! deal with the facts not hype!!
PBR
August 30th, 2011
2:56 pm
Falcons have a easy schedule
SWAT Native
August 30th, 2011
2:57 pm
@ Mike – I believe what the Big Tuna said: You are exactly what your record says you are. I see four wins against playoff teams and two against the self-proclaimed best team in the NFC, who just missed the playoffs at 10-6.
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
2:57 pm
The most shocking thing about King’s prediction is that he thinks the Saints will win the division. I see them as third in the division behind ATL and TB, and that’s only if they can hold off a resurging Carolina.
MRDCLAY
August 30th, 2011
3:00 pm
ATTENTION ATLANTA FALCONS ……WE, THE UNDERSIGNED FANS DARE TO STEP OUT ON FAITH AND AGREE WITH S.I. SPORTSWRITER PETER KING…..WE BELIEVE IN EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!!!!! WE BELIEVE THAT THE FALCONS WILL BE SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS….WE ASK THAT YOU TAKE EACH GAME WITH THE BELIEF THAT YOU WILL BE THE WORLD CHAMPIONS….PLAY LIKE CHAMPIONS…..EXECUTE LIKE CHAMPIONS…..LEAVE IT ALL ON THE FIELD……WILL EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU DARE TO STEP OUT AND BELIEVE WITH US, YOUR FANS AND ARDENT SUPPORTERS!!!!!!!!! JUST BELIEVE!!!!!!!!!!
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
3:02 pm
No homerism here. Saints do have a chance to win the division. Ingram is a beast. The subtraction of Bush alone makes the Saints better. Brees is Brees. TB will regress. They overachived vs. losing teams last year.
Fan
August 30th, 2011
3:03 pm
Well if a 0-3 preseason helps too win it great but right now we are giving up 71.3 rushing yards and 252 yards passing . We have too stop the bleeding in the passing game. Micheal is not running well with the ball. However, if we were perfect in preseason no one would be talking about this or getting another corner back. I think the falcons are young and they will do well with a 12-4 0r 14-2 winning record . They will be in the Superbowl against the Jets or it could be the Chargers. We will win
ramblingbuzz
August 30th, 2011
3:06 pm
9-7 with losses to Philly, Green Bay, Indy, New Orleans (twice), Tampa Bay, and Houston.
WHO DAT BLACK
August 30th, 2011
3:10 pm
See, this is why I rip you guys. If you want your team to win, SHOW IT! There should be way more Falcons fans standing up for what is obviously a good spirited article. I am of course, a Saints fan, and will never let anyone disrespect my Who Dats. BTW, I never liked Peter King. He looks like Peter Griffin.
Realist
August 30th, 2011
3:10 pm
Silly southerners, Atlanta teams ALWAYS choke in the playoffs. Everyone knows this.
Realist
August 30th, 2011
3:13 pm
Silly Southerners, Atlanta teams ALWAYS choke in the playoffs. Everyone knows this. It’s like death and taxes.
Sorry
August 30th, 2011
3:14 pm
Sorry, not a chance. Bulldogs have a better chance winning the NC than the Falcons making it to the Super Bowl let alone winning it. Get ready for an 8-8 year!
Jam
August 30th, 2011
3:15 pm
@Justin…money doesn’t buy him class or brains…Why do OC’s have to keep dumbing down playbook for him throughout career?
headley lamar
August 30th, 2011
3:17 pm
If the Lions make the playoffs, I’m picking the Lakers to win the World Series. (Scratching your head? That’s the point.)
If you have been paying attention you would know the Lions are much improved. Them making the playoffs is not that big a reach.
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
3:17 pm
lol, most Saints fans I know are too drunk to know if they’re in the playoffs. They just show up at games and yell. I give them credit for that.
joewhite
August 30th, 2011
3:18 pm
Double G its not like its his first time predicting a team to win it all and is not right, he has predicted the past two champs, so why not but you probably not a true falcon fan anyway.
headley lamar
August 30th, 2011
3:18 pm
I’m sure you’re not smart enough to survive a two years in prison and then come back into the NFL and secure a $100 million dollar contract. How’s that for being dumb? LMAO!
He hasn’t secured anything. None of that money is guaranteed.
When he gets hurt they can cut him and not pay another penny.
NFL contracts aren’t guaranteed money like baseball
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
3:19 pm
everybody in the division has a chance to win the division. But I’d pick ATL or TB to do it before the Saints.
I totally disagree about TB going down…I think they’ll be the team to beat.
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
3:22 pm
I disagree with King picking New England as well….safe pick. Y’all seen what Detroit did to Tommy? Belicheat will have to come up with some new holding techniques for his O line if they’re gonna win.
Big Daddy
August 30th, 2011
3:25 pm
I would like a sip of whatever he is drinking. I agree about the wild card team part but it is such an uphill battle to get in the playoffs as a wild card team and make it to the conference title game, let along the Super Bowl. I know it has been done but I am just wondering what SI thinks they know about us that we don’t. My family has been season tickets holders since the beginning but that doesn’t mean that I fall for that analogy. This first time I did. There was a picture of Steve Barkowski on the cover of SPORT magazine, about to take a snap and the cover read; “The Next Football Dynasty”. While hope springs eternal, after awhile you temper your celebration to keep from being too disappointed. I will always root for my team but I have to also have realistic expectations.
duh
August 30th, 2011
3:25 pm
When coaches have to consistently simplify playbooks for a quarterback, those coaches have dumb quarterbacks. Do not equate athletes contracts with them necessarily having brains.
Yes, vick is dumb as a brick, STILL
duh
August 30th, 2011
3:25 pm
Enter your comments here
willieg hates bill shanks
August 30th, 2011
3:27 pm
my book i got in the mail has the falcons beating the jets for the super bowl i say the falcons go 7-9 or worse and the first round pic next year will be A GREAT ONE, FOR THE TEAM THAT GOT IT FROM JULIO JONES.
Big Daddy
August 30th, 2011
3:29 pm
@Headley;He hasn’t secured anything. None of that money is guaranteed.
When he gets hurt they can cut him and not pay another penny.
Vick’s contract has $40 million guaranteed and if he keeps out of trouble, he will show them he is worth every dollar.
willieg hates bill shanks
August 30th, 2011
3:31 pm
the preseason does count the falcons defense SUX.they are bad really and matt ryan is the same as tony romo great palyer in the regular season awful in playoffs. this team is headed for disaster if they dont beat the bears game one iguarantee they lose game 2 and 3 so start 0 and 3 see what i mean.
MRDCLAY
August 30th, 2011
3:31 pm
By the way….congrats to former Falcons QB Michael Vick on the $100 mil. contract….proof that not only can God forgive you, but can make you a better man.. …pay no attention to those who want to see you fail….hatred and cynicism is deeply embedded in their hearts, and no matter how much amends you try to make, and no matter how well you do…the “haters” will always resent you because hatred is all they know, it’s in their hearts, so it comes out of their mouths. Just continue to be kind to others and forgive AND forget.
Bueller?, Bueller?
August 30th, 2011
3:32 pm
Anyone else see Bruce Pearl easily becoming one of those sleazy, slimeball AAU coaches. When he’s too sleazy for TN, he’s pretty darn sleazy.
willieg hates bill shanks
August 30th, 2011
3:33 pm
eagles game 2 in atlanta have my ticket i pity vick that day.
FlashMarker
August 30th, 2011
3:35 pm
Stinger2: you are WRONG about the Braves and the Falcons. I believe just the opposite of what you wrote on your blog will come true. I THINK THE FALCONS AND THE BRAVES WILL BOTH BECOME WORLD CHAMPIONS IN THEIR RESPECTIVE SPORTS. BOTH THE BRAVES AND FALCONS WILL WIN TITLES THIS SEASON and give Atlanta a sports rennaissance.
militant marker
August 30th, 2011
3:35 pm
@Gary, The Falcons didn’t prove we were a much better team than the Saints last year, if the Saints kicker wouldn’t have missed a gimme field goal in the first game, they would have swept us last year, and trust me, it’s hurts me to say that. Saying the Saints are no match for our team because of Julio is ridiculous especially with our secondary having an inability to consistently get teams off the field on 3rd down. If the Falcons had a killer instinct it would be more than dangerous.
willieg hates bill shanks
August 30th, 2011
3:36 pm
vick will buy more dogs now to destroy he has 40 million just like blank gave him 100 million he stole from atlanta., vicks 2and 1/2 years in prision is not enough he needs to pay more and in atlanta that day he will.
Bueller?, Bueller?
August 30th, 2011
3:36 pm
@MRDClay, go back to your “Im a victim” pulpit…..Maybe Sicko Vick can pay back all his creditors….Hope they grab all his checks while the ink is still wet
willieg hates bill shanks
August 30th, 2011
3:37 pm
the falcons need to break his legs for what he did to the falcons.
willieg hates bill shanks
August 30th, 2011
3:38 pm
he owes the falcons a ton.
WHO DAT BLACK
August 30th, 2011
3:40 pm
Big $hittass,
Don’t hate, kiss the Lombardi. We got the best QB in the division, the best WRs in the division, and the best coach in the division. Who Dat!!
Mr. Know it All
August 30th, 2011
3:40 pm
And this is why you should stay in school kids…Falcons winning the superbowl…My side is still hurting from reading the article…
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
3:41 pm
@MRDCLAY
LOL. You are on a sports blog preaching forgiveness. There is no forgiveness in sports!! I will forever hate MV7 and any individual who screws over our franchise. Petrino? Parcells? Yeah… hope they choke as well.
Bueller?, Bueller?
August 30th, 2011
3:42 pm
@Who Dat Black……And you have the most illiterate, classless fans obviously. Looks as if you head the pack.
Mr. Know it All
August 30th, 2011
3:43 pm
The Steelers will get number 7 this year!
Bueller?, Bueller?
August 30th, 2011
3:45 pm
@yeahsure….can’t get through their thick skulls….don’t bother trying….it’s all about the color with those idiots
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
3:46 pm
LOL @ Who Nut Sack!
You got me there with your literary ability sha! The Lombardi is currently in GB and the aints last I heard lost to the really strong Seahawks in the playoffs. Keep dreamin or get drunker, it’s all the same.
artyc
August 30th, 2011
3:48 pm
dream on
Ronald Millsaps
August 30th, 2011
3:50 pm
Detroit hasn’t been as bad as labeled over the past couple of years. Now with Nick Fairley, they’re reminding me of the Falcons’ 1997 defensive line, which was extremely good, by the way. I can picture them being in the playoffs. Cleveland should be pretty good also, given Colt McCoy’s being their leader. Washington’s a dark horse; I hope Rex Grossman gets the shot he deserves at being the starter, and congratulations to him for his astute observation about how good his team can be.
I have a hard time not picturing Houston in the playoffs. Their offense is top of the line, and Wade Phillips should have a huge influence on that defense. They very well might win the whole thing.
Michael Vick deserves every dime of his contract, folks. He’s easily one of the top five talents in the sport’s history, and Andy Reid is using him wisely, like Dan Reeves did, not foolishly, like Mora did.
Speaking of Reid, we hear a lot about alleged racial discrimination in terms of coaches/managers being hired. A more-prevalent problem is discrimination based on age. Society has an overt prejudice against older people. Many alleged whistle-blowers act openly like it’s no big deal. We’re seeing fewer and fewer Phil Fulmers and more and more Lane Kiffins, no matter the disparity of credentials……. Then we hear the David Sterns of the world act like Larry Bird made a borderline-racist comment when saying the NBA could use a white superstar to attract more white players to the sport. Nothing was wrong with the statement, just like nothing was wrong with Hank Aaron’s saying the same thing about baseball in regard to Jason Heyward’s influence.
Has Atlanta’s defense improved enough to vault to the top? I don’t know. You’d think a 13-3 team could’ve won at least a series here or there against Green Bay’s offense. Then again, it was one game. Maybe the team has learned a lot from it. I’d like to see a sharper offensive attack. They might as well have run Jerious Norwood out of town because they stopped using him wisely after 2008. I’d like to see Jason Snelling as the main back because he’s harder to bring down. Maybe use Michael Turner more in the second half than the first.
Hamad Meander
August 30th, 2011
3:50 pm
Bank on it. Bet on it. Hope for no injuries and a lot of good luck.
tv
August 30th, 2011
3:50 pm
As Whitney would say, “Crack is whack, SI.”
realitycheck
August 30th, 2011
3:56 pm
Much better chance the falcons won’t make the playoffs than them playing in NFC title game
Ronald Millsaps
August 30th, 2011
3:56 pm
“realist”– One problem with the South is that we’ve let way too many Northerners in and have apologized for our heritage.
LOLOLOL
August 30th, 2011
3:59 pm
LOL….Boise State will win 2 National Championships before the Falcons even SNIFF another Super Bowl!
headley lamar
August 30th, 2011
4:00 pm
Vick’s contract has $40 million guaranteed and if he keeps out of trouble, he will show them he is worth every dollar.
He is that much in debt.
Michael Vick(notes) paid his debt to society. Now he’s trying to pay back his massive debt to creditors.
Despite earning $4.1 million since signing with the Philadelphia Eagles, Vick lives on a shoestring budget set for him by a court-appointed trustee. Most of his salary goes toward paying back creditors Vick owed before entering federal prison. Those creditors, which include banks, former business colleagues and former endorsement partners, were protected because of Vick’s 2008 filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
• Two-thirds of every dollar Vick earns goes to creditors and taxes.
• The rest of the money is strictly controlled. Think of it as an allowance.
• Vick can spend $4,250 per month on rent and utilities and $472 per month on a car. His mother, who was on Vick’s payroll during his headier, pre-prison days, can receive $2,500 per month.
• Other obligations Vick owes include mortgages, child support, fees for his agent (who gets $800,000 through 2015) and for his tax lawyers (who will eventually receive a total of $2.6 million). The allowance does allow for Vick to pay $1,355 per month for private school for the two children he has with his fiancee, Kijafa Frink. (Munson calls it a “rare bit of extravagance.”)
• His creditors stand to receive $12 million through 2015, provided Vick continues to receive a multi-million dollar salary.
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
4:01 pm
Michael Vick will not make it through a full season. He will only get slower and more injury prone. 6 years? Philly will trade him long before that time comes.
Stafford also hasnt shown that he can make it through an NFL season. Fairley will also probably reinjure something once he takes real NFL snaps.
THE BIG R
August 30th, 2011
4:02 pm
NO TOP NOTCH DEFENSE, AND CANT GO TO SUPER BOWL. DON’T TRY TO BE A OLD CHARGERS TEAM FROM LONG AGO ANF TRY TO OUTSCORE EVERYBODY. PLEASE EVERYONE AND LOOK AT FIRST 7 GAMES. HOME FIELDDIDN’THELP LAST YEAR. WILD CARD AND LOSE IN 2ND ROUND
JR
August 30th, 2011
4:04 pm
ted: who is GT and WC?
Michael
August 30th, 2011
4:05 pm
I love the love Sports Illustrated. I agree
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
4:05 pm
Before anyone posts some sob story about MV7’s creditors and debt. Please search AJC’s article about his cash shopping sprees he went on before going to prison. He intentionally and deliberatley screwed over a lot more people (not just dogs and fans) than you think.
THE BIG R
August 30th, 2011
4:09 pm
VERY INTERESTING! 3 STRAIGHT ROAD WINS IN PLAYOFFS. GO AHEAD AND SIGN SMITTY AND T.D. TO LIFETIME CONRACTS RIGHT NOW
windu
August 30th, 2011
4:09 pm
. . . LOL . . . these Falcons beating those Packers, without the injuries they had last season . . . LOL . . . in the NFC title game, at Lambeau . . . I’m a die-hard fan, but I can’t stop laughing at that one . . . ROFL . . . can’t stop . . .
DrJ
August 30th, 2011
4:13 pm
Wow! I guess that means the Falcons are getting some more defensive backs, some help at center and a srong legged kicker. Great.
falconfanriseup
August 30th, 2011
4:13 pm
Look i need all the Fair weather Falcons Fans to get off of this blog you have no Faith. Plus the Falcons are a elite club like the Steelers, Pats and the Colts yes we are that good we went 13-3 last year we had a bad outing in the playoffs but this is still a young team but i beleive we can win the Superbowl this year. Plus someone has to win it all so why not us?
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
4:14 pm
Windu is obviously a lifelong fan. He must be have been born a few years ago because he doesnt remember when we went into Lambeau and knocked off the Packers when no one gave us a chance.
MagicWand
August 30th, 2011
4:14 pm
With the signing of Vicks contract, michael DOGFIGHTER EXTRAORDINAAIRE vick HAS DONE TWO THINGS in the NFL that NO ONE HAS EVER DONE IN THE HISTORY OF THE LEAGUE: #1:SIGNED TWO 100 MILLION $ CONTRACTS; #2:RUSHED FOR 1000 YARDS AS AN NFL QUARTERBACK. Thats what makes michael unique. When Vick flashes greatness, NO ONE ELSE CAN COMPETE WITH HIM and he’s the only one who can do it.
Yeahsure
August 30th, 2011
4:16 pm
@falconfanriseup
I feel ya. Whats worse than Saints fans on this blog? Fake Falcons fans.
Larry Falcon
August 30th, 2011
4:16 pm
The FALCONS winning the Superbowl? I guess the “Sun is Bound to Shine on a Dog A….once in a Lifetime”????
Ken Strickland
August 30th, 2011
4:18 pm
People like to bash the Falcons DEF based on the Packer playoff gm, and where they finished in pass DEF rankings. However, we were very good, and ranked near the top, when it came to pts allowed, which is the only stat that really counts in the end. Our DEF, including our pass DEF, was good enough to allow us to tie for the league lead in win, with 13gms, as well as win our division and the NFC’s #1 seed.
Unlike last yrs defending NFC South, NFC, and Superbowl champion AINTS, our DEF, including our pass DEF, didn’t prevent us from having an outstanding season. This yr our rushing and passing OFF, as well as our overall OFF, will be even stronger. The addition of DE REdwards, and the return to full health of DT’s PJerry and TLewis, will make both our inside and outside pass rush and run DEF better, as well as our overall DEF.
The additions of RB JRogers and WR JJones, as well as the return to full health of slot receiver HDouglas, will make our rushing and passing OFF much more potent. Our DEF won’t likely dominate anyone, but it proved last yr to be good enough to keep teams out of the endzone. With the improvements that have been made to an OFF that averaged over 25PPG, we definitely have the potential to do what the Packers did last yr.
Ken Strickland
August 30th, 2011
4:22 pm
MAGICWAND-Former Bears QB Bobby Douglas was the 1st NFL QB to ever rush for 1000yds in a season.
beebee
August 30th, 2011
4:26 pm
Hey Potter, Tech may not get much television action, but it’s better than getting our a.z.z.e.s totally destroyed on National Telly like you all’s Dawgs will come Saturday, the next Saturday, and a few other Saturdays thereafter!
Go Jackets!
Ken Strickland
August 30th, 2011
4:26 pm
Why take such a negative attitude at the idea of the Falcons winning a Superbowl. The Saints set a never to be broken NFL record in futility by going 25 consecutive yrs without a winning season, and they managed to win a Superbowl.
There’s no doubt about the Falcons having Superbowl talent and being a Superbowl caliber team. We just have to get some Superbowl caliber coaching from our OFF and DEF coordinators.
GO PACK GO!
August 30th, 2011
4:30 pm
Didn’t we hear all of this last year when the Packers demolished the Falcons in the playoffs? Defense wins Super Bowls and the Falcons D is average.
ohhhhYEAH
August 30th, 2011
4:31 pm
hmmm. maybe Peter King, someone with actual football knowledge, understands this is only PRESEASON, where you mostly arrange games and schemes around evaluating your BACK UP players, and still understands that the falcons have a very good team. morons
Rawdog
August 30th, 2011
4:36 pm
Screw King and his psychic predictions. Falcons and pedestrian Ryan will be lucky to go 6-10. Plus Green Bay has all their starters back from their Super Bowl team. A beter article and picture appears in ESPN the magazine title “What if Michael Vick Were White”. This is the funniest pic I have seen in a while. It’s like dressing up in black face, but reverse.
David
August 30th, 2011
4:51 pm
Although King pick the SB contenders last year (with the Steelers over the Packers)- I must say that he’s off the mark on this.
With the Chargers going to the SB? That kills his prediction already. Besides, the Falcons will split with the Saints & Bucks, and lose to the Packers, Eagles and Colts. You clowns keep concerning yourselves with Mike Vick, but the Eagles has two of the best corners in the game! The Texans @ home is another possible lost. I see them @ 10-6 with the NFC (East) sending two teams to the playoffs.
Rufus1
August 30th, 2011
4:58 pm
Haters like to have a bad taste in their mouths…..
Every team has problems equal to the falcons….NO TEAM IN THE LEAGUE IS PERFECT!!!!
David
August 30th, 2011
4:59 pm
For the clowns who are concerning themselves with Mike Vick, you better take a look @ the Eagles starting corners! With the exception of Derrell Revis, these two are the best. Besides, the Falcons will split with the Bucs & Saints and lose to the Eagles, Packers and either the Colts or Texans. They’re lucky to limp into the playoffs @ 11-5!
As for the Chargers in the SB….. Bwaahahahahahahah…Norv Turner? LOL
King predicted the Steelers vs the Packers last year, but, I say he has this completely wrong.
For the record, “the Steelers over the Eagles in the title game (27-17)…..or vice-versa
Rufus1
August 30th, 2011
5:17 pm
Falcons are going to the SB….
If I didn’t believe that I wouldn’t own season tickets….
There is only only team that anyone can say is better than the Falcons……Packers
The Eagles need to sign an offensive line, Payton better get a new NECK and the AINTS can’t stop the run….Go Falcons
MagicWand
August 30th, 2011
5:27 pm
Ken Strickland: you are WRONG about Bobby Douglas. Its true that Douglas had the RUSHING QUARTERBACK record before vick, but douglas NEVER CRACKED 1000 YARDS. LOOK IT UP IN THE RECORD BOOKS AND YOU WILL SEE THAT I AM RIGHT. I dont remember the exact number for douglas, but I think it was about either 968, 972, or 978 something like that. Douglas fell short of 1000. vick is the FIRST and ONLY 1000 yard rushing quarterback. It is a proud record that vick has and now vick has also signed another 100 million $ contract. Lets just hope that vick doesnt have a relapse and announce that he has been fighting dogs since he was released from prison. THAT WOULD BE A DEVASTATING BLOW TO THE FEW AND SCARCE VICK FANS THAT ARE STILL OUT THERE.
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
5:39 pm
@ Ken S,
I’d love to agree with you re: the Falcons rushing attack, but the truth is I think we’re not gonna be as good there due to losing our RG. To me that was a really big tactical mistake made be the front office. Time will tell, but I think S Jackson will have a better year that the Burner due to that.
BigHittas
August 30th, 2011
5:41 pm
@ Rufus,
I don’t really believe the Eaglets will be able to stop the run either. At least not early in the season.
JSS
August 30th, 2011
5:44 pm
@ MagicWand and Ken Strickland
Douglass rushed for 968 in 1972 for the Bears. He never went over 525 again in his career. He was 25 then. Those Abe Gibron led teams could thrown the ball to save their life… He had a 38% completion rate and made Bubby Brister look like Otto Graham he was so bad of a passer!
JSS
August 30th, 2011
5:54 pm
And before somebody brings up the old 14 game season, Douglass had 141 rushing attempts back in 1972. Vick on the other hand had 123 carries over the 16 games he started in the season that he rushed for 1,039 yards (2006).
JoFo
August 30th, 2011
5:56 pm
Hey!! I think “SeenThisB4″ wrote this article!!! LOL!
Stiffneck
August 30th, 2011
6:06 pm
Yeah, the Falcons will win the Superbowl right after I win the Lottery!!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 30th, 2011
6:10 pm
Rod Paradise
August 30th, 2011
1:55 pm
Vick will be hurt this season. 100 million yeah right.
I agree. And he’s 2 games away before that whole city turns on him. And they will !
M&M
August 30th, 2011
6:11 pm
Eagles deserve
August 30th, 2011
2:38 pm
what they pay for…..trash
M&M
August 30th, 2011
6:21 pm
Realist
August 30th, 2011
3:10 pm
Silly southerners, Atlanta teams ALWAYS choke in the playoffs. Everyone knows this.
Ah, We have a World Series Trophy in this city ?!
And I know you are a who dat ! You also have a SuperBowl Trophy in your city ?! So, What’s the difference ?! 
What esle you can say your raggedy city has to offer ?!!, Huh ?! 
htwoorider
August 30th, 2011
6:49 pm
I might believe it if this guy was able to play.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBnVK1VhwX0
Mike
August 30th, 2011
6:52 pm
Last time a prediction came out that the Falcons would play San Diego in the Superbowl I was 8. Those were the days of Air Coryell, Fouts, Joiner, Winslow, Bartkowski, Andrews, Jenkins, and the Gritz Blitz….I remember the season ended with Drew Pearson going off in the second half to lead one of the greatest NFL comebacks in history to beat the Falcons and eliminate them from the playoffs. In the AFC title game the Chargers were upset by the AFC’s wildcard. Let’s hope SI has this one called right.
JSS
August 30th, 2011
7:06 pm
Mike
August 30th, 2011
6:62 pm
“In the AFC title game the Chargers were upset by the AFC’s wildcard.”
“Upset?” The 1980 Raiders had already defeated the Chargers in Oakland by 2 touchdowns. They lost by a touchdown San Diego in OT. They finished one game out in AFC West to SD. Upsets are for pretend college football and the 1963 Thanksgiving Day game when the Packers were beat by the Lions. Now that was a upset!
JSS
August 30th, 2011
7:09 pm
*1962 Packers
Creolegrl
August 30th, 2011
9:09 pm
I beg to differ Mr. Schultz……WHO DAT!!!
Mike
August 30th, 2011
9:14 pm
JSS in the eyes of every “expert” it was an upset…like I said before I was 8, so all I remember about the Chargers was whaty everyone was saying. I just remember seeing them that season in a Monday night game against Pittsburgh, and everyone saying how the Chargers air attack was unstoppable. Other than that the only time I saw them play again that season was in the AFC Championship…
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 30th, 2011
9:16 pm
DID YOU KNOW:
Mike Vick was a ripe 22 year old when he won his 1st playoff game.
CHOKE is already 26.
You do the math
WTF?
August 30th, 2011
9:27 pm
the falcons cannot win when it counts. they are no better this year than last year, so if you’re a diehard falcons fan get ready for more heartbreak. There will be NO superbowl for an Atlanta team ever again.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
August 30th, 2011
9:28 pm
The Falcants have about the same odds of winning the Superbowl as KEN getting facts straight
Get Real
August 30th, 2011
9:33 pm
Take it from an Atlanta native…..the Falcons will not win the Super Bowl next year. Maybe I should consider being a sports writer?
macfleetwood
August 30th, 2011
10:30 pm
NO WAY!!!! I want what peter is smoking!!
Mike
August 30th, 2011
10:36 pm
Matt Choke… did you know that as a starter Ryan owns a mediocre 7-8 record against teams with 10+ wins…which is nothing to brag about, however as a starter for the Falcons Vick managed to post a 4-16-1 record against teams with 10+ wins….please someone challenge that stat!
dmcnya
August 30th, 2011
10:48 pm
u people are funny didnt learn anything from last year same talk before play n green bay superbowl talk stop it already t he falcons are overrated last year they lucked out win n five games they should have not won there a 9 and 5 team if no injuries occur they wont win against the bears or eagles then u will c the fair weather falcons fans complain bout everything but mat ryan
Mike
August 30th, 2011
10:54 pm
And please do not get me wrong…I am happy for Vick, for him turning his life around, and I feel now that he is a complete QB. He made a mistake paid his debt to society, and worked hard to get his life back. It is great to see someone get a second chance and make the most of it. I have been as critical of Matt Ryan as anyone, but I feel my criticism has been warranted and not out of bias or hatred. Many people want him to fail because they somehow feel that he screwed over Mike Vick, it that the Falcons turned their backs on Vick. The fact is you idiots that this team invested their future in Vick, and he spit on his team, his city, and flipped off his fans (and not just in a literal sense). 2007 may have been the worst year in any NFL history for any franchise. Vick is getting his redemption and many of us fans are happy for him. However us true Falcons fans, the ones that have loved this team with all their heart and sould since they knew what a football was wants to see our redemption. I am tired of the so called fans who come on here and have to take punches at Ryan because he happened to be the guy that the Falcons chose to move their franchise forward after the mess that Vick left them with. I will conitnue to be critical of Ryan when I feel that he can play better, however that is because I love my team…not because I am wanting him to fail due to who he replaced.
D-ROME
August 30th, 2011
10:57 pm
WHO ARE THESE HATERS ON THE BLOG GO TO YOUR TEAS BLOG WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mike
August 30th, 2011
10:57 pm
looks like I should have used spelling and grammar check before that post.
Army Strong
August 30th, 2011
11:07 pm
I don’t see the secondary holding up. And just personally, I felt that was a bigger need than the D-Line. Someone to compliment Brent Grimes would sure up the other side of the defense and naturally give the D-Line more time to get the QB.
florida falcon
August 30th, 2011
11:16 pm
It’s wishful thinking but noone wins the Superbowl in August, it’s won in February, and that’s a long way out. I will not get my hopes high, personally I think we’ll be 8-8. Our defense is atrocious! I hope Peter King is right but I ain’t betting the farm on that.
Boom Dizzle
August 30th, 2011
11:23 pm
It’s not a bold prediction but a smart one. This is a very good team already (despite the widespread panic over the preseason).
icedawg
August 30th, 2011
11:36 pm
This is laughable, truly laughable but of course it is Sports Illustrated preseason. Unless they’ve been hiding it the ground game has not been improved. Defenses ignore the run and key in on the pass. Ryan will be running for his life. In the playoffs the defense had a hard time getting off of the field. The preseason has not shown anything new.
Joe Tess Fish House
August 30th, 2011
11:45 pm
Peter King is an idoit 4 pickin the Flacons to win the Superbowel. He must not paid attention 2 all the first round busts.
Sean Witherspoon looks so lost out there.
Perrier Jerry has done NUTTIN sense being draftesd.
Juleit Jones droped a shure TD pass
Did U see that INT Ryan thru? Yeah, another fist round bust.
Kris In Loganville
August 31st, 2011
12:07 am
I say it can happen. BUT, more than likely, this scenario would require the Falcons to step up very considerably. Like many of you, what I’ve seen thus far has given me reasons to worry.
But I’m not sold on the Eagles hype, nor am I convinced the Packers are destined to repeat. But both teams are trouble for our ‘Birds, not to mention the Saints and the likely emboldened Bucs. Let’s see what happens though. But as long as the Falcons struggle with these teams, they won’t get far.
M&M
August 31st, 2011
12:56 am
Falcons just signed Sanders. I guess thats good news. So someone in the ss spots is getting cut.
Clint
August 31st, 2011
1:23 am
At least this is consistent with end of the world. As in 98, the world was going to wreck itself with the Y2K. This time we have the Falcons going to the Super bowl with the 2012 end of the earth stuff.
Josh Edwards
August 31st, 2011
3:09 am
If the Chargers get to the SUper Bowl they will:
1. Not give up 24 pts.
2. Not score less than 20 pts.
They’re ready to do what they want. They imposed their will agaisnt Arizona when they wanted to: http://www.footballnation.com/content/training-camp-report-san-diego-chargers–week-three/8398/
SAMUEL
August 31st, 2011
4:43 am
Let’s play the season out and then will see. Peter Kink Please tell me what the powerball numbers are for today?
Big Daddy
August 31st, 2011
5:46 am
@Headley, thanks for the balance sheet along with comments, but you completely missed the point. Nothing that you listed had anything to do with his performance on the football field. That is the reason why he got the contract in the first place.
Am I still angry for what he did to the team and himself, yes and yes. However, he did his time, has been given a second chance and up to now has made the most of it. Few people can fall so far and make the kind of comeback he has made. That he continues to make the efforts for redemption is what I root for. I would never want to see him in a Falcon uniform again, even if it is to finished his career where he started. But I do cheer for the human spirit that tries to right what was done wrong.
The Falcons have an exceptional team that has emerged from the ruins and are poised to make a serious run. There are those of us who while we will always cheer for the team have skeptical optimism that Peter King is right. I was there in Miami when we fell to the Broncos and I want to be at the game when we win. Hopefully, that will be soon.
scott
August 31st, 2011
6:52 am
i LOVE THIS PREDICTION!!!NOTHING ELSE I LIKE IN ATLANTA MUCH ANYMORE(DETROIT DOWN SOUTH) BUT LOVE THE ATLANTA FALCONS!!!AND I HATE THE NEW ORLEANS AINTS!!!COME ON FALCONS!!!
PookaB
August 31st, 2011
7:50 am
First of all anything is possible! So why can’t Falcon fan’s think that we can’t win the Super Bowl. I say, “Yes We Can”. The Falcons have everything they need to not only get to the big game but to win. However I do believe that the secondary is the weak link but there are also other guys out there that have to assist the secondary by getting to the QB. Teams with great secondary’s also have really good defensive lines to rush the QB. The Falcons will get the job done in 2011-12. GO Falcons, RISE UP !!!!!!!!!
Tell it like it is
August 31st, 2011
8:06 am
SI—- Must have got the falcons mixed up with UGA,thier the only ones to ever win anything on paper!
Jacket420
August 31st, 2011
8:37 am
Greeeeeeaaaaat…..now we got that goin’ for us…which is nice
Stick a fork in ‘em….they’re done
lovetravel
August 31st, 2011
8:46 am
I not sure where you get your idea about the Falcons. They are good team but each time it come to play off they do the wrong thing and make a lots of mistake so I can’t see what the future will hold for them next year until the time come. Don’t jump up too fast to talk about it
Flo-Ri-Duh
August 31st, 2011
8:54 am
Falcons won the close games last year with a better offensive line. They will lose the close ones this year and will have at least 6 losses. Last year was a fluke. Julio can’t block DE’s and he can’t rush the passer.
jerry
August 31st, 2011
9:12 am
Curtis Lofton on the cover of SI. WTF?
The Truth
August 31st, 2011
9:18 am
The Falcons going to the Superbowl…Yeah right! First they need to work on Defense and those wishy washy sometiming fans they have. My prediction is either the Eagles or Saints going to the Bowl this year! Maybe next year Atl
Sabo
August 31st, 2011
9:26 am
Flo-Ri-Duh
August 31st, 2011
8:54 am
“Julio can’t block DE’s and he can’t rush the passer.”
^^^^^^yeah i know ……he’s pretty good catching & running we should try em at wideout hunh ?? Then move Edwards 2 DE cus he can’t catch for sh*t !!!!
PMC
August 31st, 2011
9:36 am
Why not? I see where he’s going with it thinking the Falcons could compete better in Green Bay than Atlanta.
Until they start proving it though, forget the secondary, the linebackers don’t make enough plays. The teams in the super bowl last year had absolute studs at LB.
We have Curtis Lofton who is a solid solid player but not really a super playmaker. Spoon talks a lot but so far hasn’t done a thing, then Stephen Nicholas, who likewise is quick, but doesn’t make plays.
I’ve felt they needed to upgrade at LB, perhaps that’s coming, perhaps Spoon is the guy, but until we see it, Linebacker is a rather week point on this team outside anyway. They are not good against the pass.
PMC
August 31st, 2011
9:41 am
Last year was not a fluke. You people are ridiculous. This team has been improving for 3 years. They’ve had winning records for 3 years. Matt Ryan has reserved his worst performances for the playoffs combined with Keith Brooking blunders and overall poor defensive play. If you follow the team you understand why they got Julio Jones, he’s a perfect fit for the system and a better overall player than they could get at 27 this year or next year. The problem is that they still don’t have enough overall talent, and that’s exactly why they added Julio.
They need elite playmakers, they believe Julio to be one. Now they need some of these draft picks, like Jerry and Spoon to EARN IT.
1998 was a fluke. This team is no fluke, but at some point the talent level needs to equate to the dicipline.
The best teams are hitting on far more draft picks than TD has.
Sabo
August 31st, 2011
10:05 am
U counterattack good defense with strong offense,easily arguably the falcon wideouts trio (11-83-84) is best in NFL ._.! Edwards and heathy (55) is what I call “cooking wit grease” and Payton Manning candy ass looking like “poke chops” bahahahaha , cant wait to play those guys …….N.O is shaky so is tampa (no need to elaborate on em)……Green bay and Philly only minor competition . Hindsight 20/20 so come feb. all haters and naysayers will see sh*t much clearer! Let’s play some football!!!!!
The Junk-Man
August 31st, 2011
10:37 am
In the spirit of the late Fred Sandford ” R U Crazy !!! “
aprilglaspie
August 31st, 2011
12:38 pm
Hilarious. And Rod Paradise, John Abraham will be hurt on his first play from scrimmage, as usual.
NFLGames.Net » NFC South predictions coming Thursday – ESPN (blog)
August 31st, 2011
3:08 pm
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) [...]
Sid
August 31st, 2011
6:45 pm
What did Peter King say last year?
“I think the Steelers are going to win the Super Bowl”
“I think Carolina’s my surprise team of the year and will play in January”
“I think Carson Palmer returns with a vengeance to shut up people like me”
NFLGames.Net » HTK’s NFL Power Rankings: Preseason – Garry Cobb
September 1st, 2011
1:39 am
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) [...]
Phil Fanatic
September 1st, 2011
12:03 pm
the falcons aren’t winning anything. Mark this down: the falcons will go out in round 1 against the Eagles and the Eagles will beat Green Bay for the NFC title! Vick is the $100 million man!!!!!
How to interview
September 1st, 2011
12:21 pm
The NFL season is finally upon us! I’m ready to see some explosive hits and well drawn plays. Who is my pick for the Superbowl winner? Right now I would have to say that I think the Packers or the 49ers look like they have the best chance. My most liked part of the NFL is that you never know who is going to be winning. Drama and excitement, welcome home NFL!
pete
September 1st, 2011
4:13 pm
WOW ?? THIS IS BIG SO SOON PRE NOT OVER AND THEY ARE LOOKING LIKE NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK ,WILL HAVE TO PLAY THAT WAIT AND C
Grits
September 1st, 2011
5:17 pm
Super Bowl? They are unlikely to make the playoffs.
Hetch Hetchy
September 1st, 2011
7:03 pm
No way, no how, not going to happen. I think Ryan is a slightly above average QB, Turner is done, Gonzalez is done, the linebackers are crap, and the dbacks are crap.
sonia
September 1st, 2011
8:35 pm
hey i like the falcons to, but dang who paid king to say that…some one had to pay him. I know this is preseason but the falcons look like they are sleep. wake up…… and same to king… wake up…
J
September 5th, 2011
8:30 pm
King got it half right.Atlanta will face New England in Super Bowl.Should be a very good year in Atlanta.Braves will beat Red Sox in World Series and Falcons over Pats in Super Bowl.