Falcons finally show an offense worthy of their talent
Julio Jones, here scoring his second toucdown, led Falcons' 40-point assault. (Kansas City Star)
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Season openers do not always indicate which way a season will go. But they are like taking off a mask. They can reveal beauty marks that wow admirers or moles that look like a third eye and scare small children.
If there was particular concern about the Falcons’ season opener, it was justified. This year’s first game would come on the road. Openers on the road haven’t mirrored the intersection of joy and bliss for this team. They had lost the last three. The offense hadn’t produced even one touchdown in 12 quarters and an overtime. Matt Ryan? Losses to Pittsburgh and Chicago produced seven sacks, two interceptions and a few rearranged major organs. And he was outscored by a defensive end (Kroy Biermann, interception return).
“I know I hadn’t won one of these on the road,” Ryan said. “It’s a hard thing to do.” True. It’s just not always that ugly.
But when the mask came off the Falcons Sunday, there was no third eye on offense. Just a pair of eyes in the coach’s box that seemed to be looking in the right direction.
Offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter made his debut as the team’s offensive coordinator. The Falcons produced four touchdowns and four field goals in their first eight possessions. Only then was punter Matt Bosher summoned from his Barcalounger and asked to put down the sandwich and remote control because the team actually had to kick the ball to the other team. Bosher’s lone punt came with 3:16 left in the game.
Matt Ryan threw three touchdown passes and finished with one of highest ratings of his career: 136.4. (AP photo)
“I think he had a bunch of holds [for placekicks],” Ryan said. “That’s better action for him anyhow.”
The Falcons won their season opener 40-24 over Kansas City. They led 40-17 early in the final quarter. OK. The Chiefs’ defense was significantly dented by injuries and a suspension. Three straight second-half turnovers also gift wrapped 13 Falcons’ points. But this was the kind of offensive showing they’ve been waiting for. For too long, they have been less than the sum of their parts.
Ryan was great (23 for 31, 3 TDs, 136.4 efficiency rating). Julio Jones was whatever is north of great (6 catches for 108 and 2 touchdowns in the first 2½ quarters). Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez each had strong supporting roles.
But the most credit should go to Koetter, whose play-calling – including this strange and wonderful creation from another planet called a screen pass – directed the whole show.
“This is what it was supposed to be like last year,” said White, in a veiled shot at former offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey. “This is what we expected.”
When asked directly about Koetter, White said: “He’s relentless. He goes after it no matter what. He never lets the defense relax. You can see what he’s capable of in play-calling. You just have to go out there and execute the plays.
“We don’t even know what he’s going to call. There might be a time when one play will come in, then he’ll say, ‘No, no. Let’s do this instead.’ It’s a whole lot different than last year.”
You won’t read any Koetter quotes in this column because head coach Mike Smith doesn’t permit any of his coordinators to speak after games — only on late Tuesday afternoons, when the last game has long passed and the next game is five days away.
But the reviews from players have been glowing. Gonzalez, whose third-quarter touchdown catch and trademark crossbar spike drew boos from the Chiefs’ fans — who used to be his fans — said: “I don’t know how, but Matt’s just understanding everything that’s going on with this offense. He’s got a complete grasp of it.”
When asked if he agreed with White’s assessment about Koetter being unpredictable, Gonzalez said, “Yeah, and that’s what you kind of want. One thing about this offense is it’s not one dimensional. We can run ball, we caan throw it to Roddy, Julio, Harry [Douglas], me. That’s going to keep defenses on their heels this year.”
Ryan is in his fifth season. Smith said of his performance Sunday, “That might be the best game that he’s played.”
It doesn’t guarantee anything for next week against Denver, or Dallas, New York or Detroit. But finally, we saw more than mere hints of this offense’s potential. In week one and on the road, that’s a significant plus.
By Jeff Schultz
•
Last 10 from the jukebox
– Short takes: 3 thoughts on Falcons’ win over Chiefs
– Short takes: 3 thoughts on Georgia’s win over Missouri
– Georgia starts slow, then writes the winning script
– Georgia needs to avoid playing catch-up in SEC again
– Weekend Predictions: Dogs, Falcons win, and a ‘Sack Schultz’ video update
– Falcons, Smith going to amusing extremes to get an edge
– Chipper Jones provides Braves with a needed miracle
– Has Georgia duped us again, or was this just a hiccup?
– Fredi Gonzalez knows if Braves fizzle, he’ll be one to catch heat
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174 comments Add your comment
The Grinch
September 9th, 2012
7:18 pm
Nice win; the play calling is considerably better. Now if only Smitty would take his hands off the defense…
JSS
September 9th, 2012
7:22 pm
Funny that you kept it on the offense solely, but they made plays… But if Nolan continues to smoke and mirror 2nd halves enough to keep teams from challenging their middle core or going deep who knows? It is the regular season…
Wrecker
September 9th, 2012
7:27 pm
Ryan looked amazing. 5-6 years in the league is when QBs typically start to show whether they will be a legend or a nobody.
Ivan
September 9th, 2012
7:33 pm
Awesome offensive display today.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:34 pm
@ MR2, brother there are always some on these blogs that will hate on you. I hope you understand the reasoning. Great game Matt! We love you!!
Post-it
September 9th, 2012
7:35 pm
@JSS. Maddox and Wallace? You’re showing your age. And your prejudice.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:37 pm
If MR2 threw for 500 yds and won the SB there are always going to be the “MCR’s” on here hating on you because they prefer the douche bag who was here before.
Mr C.
September 9th, 2012
7:38 pm
Offense was great. The problem will be the defense. How can ur starting MLB register 0 tackle!!! The stat line shows MLB Dent with 0 tackles. Something must be wrong with my eyes unless #52 didn’t play against the Chiefs.
mountain_jim
September 9th, 2012
7:38 pm
I am so thankful that Mularkey is gone. And now we have a DC that can adjust at halftime.
Post-it
September 9th, 2012
7:39 pm
Great pre game ovation for Gonzo. But I gotta say the boos after his touchdown dunk were even louder.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:40 pm
Mike Nolan actually made halftime adjustments. Who would have thought that possible…lol. Great job.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:41 pm
We also know the reason some prefer the douche bag.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:43 pm
I can understand the louder boo’s for TG. The fans in KC, unlike Atl, love their team over one player.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:44 pm
Again, thanks birds and dawgs. What a weekend!!
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:46 pm
Funny how the birds and dawgs had games that were a mirror image.
Michael
September 9th, 2012
7:46 pm
The defense must stop those 3 and long or the good teams will have our lunch again this season.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
7:47 pm
@medea- Why does that matter?
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
7:52 pm
vs 3 missing starters for the Chiefs & Matt Cassel.
When does the parade start?
Falcants “Regular Season Champs”
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
7:54 pm
Wrecker
September 9th, 2012
7:27 pm
Ryan looked amazing. 5-6 years in the league is when QBs typically start to show whether they will be a legend or a nobody.
______________________________________________
Big Ben won in year 1…………
Next excuse?
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
7:56 pm
Mr C.
September 9th, 2012
7:38 pm
Offense was great. The problem will be the defense. How can ur starting MLB register 0 tackle!!! The stat line shows MLB Dent with 0 tackles. Something must be wrong with my eyes unless #52 didn’t play against the Chiefs.
___________________________________________
I thought you were dead since you didn’t show your face since CHOKE got shutout by the Giants after you called him elite then you disappeared
Clever new name though…ha ha
JSS
September 9th, 2012
7:57 pm
“And your prejudice”
I wonder if my Girlfriend and my godkids know? Oh my, I better repent
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
7:58 pm
Peyton’s arm won’t get tired in the 2nd half and the defense won’t be missing 3 starters
Mike "Pick" Vick
September 9th, 2012
7:59 pm
What was Vick’s “next excuse” today? 4 INTs. vs. those Super Bowl Bound CLEVELAND BROWNS.
JSS
September 9th, 2012
8:00 pm
Here come the name changers…
MarkATL
September 9th, 2012
8:01 pm
Well Mr. Matt Choke, Looks like our Falcons get a “W” today. How about them Saints today? LOL!!
DeepDiver
September 9th, 2012
8:02 pm
Who dat?
DeepDiver
September 9th, 2012
8:02 pm
That’s RG3
MarkATL
September 9th, 2012
8:05 pm
Hmm.. two picks near the end by Brees,.. very costly… I wonder if Brees will “Choke” in next week’s game.
JSS
September 9th, 2012
8:05 pm
MCR, when did mythically become a Saints fan?
Jamaaliver
September 9th, 2012
8:06 pm
‘Old Noodle Arm’ sure showed ‘em today. Seen This, Matt “Choke”, Who Dat….
you guys are all eerily quiet today!!!!!
=-)
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:12 pm
This game was a heck of a lot better than previous road openers, obviously, and it served to help confirm some of the good offensive vibes eminating from the offseason, camp and preseason.
However, it is just one game.
Better to be trending up than down.
Blake
September 9th, 2012
8:13 pm
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan ….who are you and what do you care? Falcons put up 40 and you got the gall to come here and put down our team….You look stupid coming on here and being negative after that performance….GO AWAY CLOWN…choke on a philly cheese steak or wherever the hell your from.We can talk after the Denver game……I didn’t see Ryans arm get tired….your just a blip on this blogs radar screen….GO AWAY STUPID!
Mike "Pick" Vick
September 9th, 2012
8:13 pm
CHOKE post from earlier today:
“Welcome to the Matt “CHOKE” Rysn annual meltdown.
I loved Warren Sapps bold prediction this morning:
Chiefs 41
Falcants 0
I knew I liked Warren Sapp for a reason”
Yep, Choke and Warren Sapp. A couple of comedic geniuses.
Blake
September 9th, 2012
8:15 pm
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan …..you sound like a jealous 5 year old child!
MarkATL
September 9th, 2012
8:17 pm
Warren really predicted that?? LOL!!! Just like him… He is ALL TALK and NO ACTION!! Just like he did when he was a player.
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:17 pm
It’s always interesting to see some newer bloggers join the fray and encounter MCR for the first time…I’m sure it is a source of constant energy and amusement for MCR!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
8:18 pm
0-3 and counting.
Next question?
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
8:21 pm
For all you newcomers, allow me to introduce myself………..
I have been here since 2008 and if you can’t figure out why
well I can’t turn your brains on for you…..
Welcome and enjoy
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:23 pm
Nice to see Julio Jones getting some serious airtime and love on the Faith Hill opening for Sunday Night Football!
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:24 pm
Oh wait…that might have been Larry Fitzgerald…just saw the red uniform and #11. Probably Fitz.
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:28 pm
Fire someone!!
DawgNole
September 9th, 2012
8:28 pm
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:23 pm
Nice to see Julio Jones getting some serious airtime and love on the Faith Hill opening for Sunday Night Football!
________________
Nice to see Faith Hill. Period.
DawgNole
September 9th, 2012
8:29 pm
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:28 pm
Fire someone!!
___________________
One of your better lines.
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:29 pm
And while an ass and annoying as can be, Choke has been right 4 years running…
JSS
September 9th, 2012
8:31 pm
@ Phil…
Ha ha, Bob Weiss…
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:31 pm
I use it too much but thanks….
Maybe just fire mike nolan….
Voice of Reason
September 9th, 2012
8:34 pm
Choke remains a joke. Great game for the Falcons!
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:35 pm
Bob Weiss….
Why would you bring back the definition of catatonic? He couldn’t coach church league ball…
JSS
September 9th, 2012
8:35 pm
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:29 pm
“Choke has been right 4 years running…”
Thus that is the core of the animus…
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:35 pm
Phil, if MCR’s schtick were simply that Ryan has severly underperformed in the playoffs, then yes, he has been right. But with all due respect MCR
, he criticizes Ryan on virtually everything, setting up strawman arguments, apples to oranges comparisons and cherry-picked statistics. In all of that, MCR is usually quite wrong. But entertaining, no doubt.
billyho55
September 9th, 2012
8:36 pm
DAMN GUYS, FAITH HILL STILL HAS IT AFTER ALL THESE YEARS!
JSS
September 9th, 2012
8:36 pm
@ Phil
You do know the Hawks hired him (Weiss) as an advisor?
JSS
September 9th, 2012
8:38 pm
“Strawman arguments” oh no, I need to go and laugh for about a half-hour on that one…
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:38 pm
Choke is no joke until we actually win a playoff game….
billyho55
September 9th, 2012
8:38 pm
AND THE BLONDE ON THE HARDEES COMMERCIAL, GOOD GAWD OH MIGHTY!
Big Lou
September 9th, 2012
8:39 pm
Blah with a bunch of pos trolls. That’s why I never want to read these.
Marcus
September 9th, 2012
8:39 pm
If all goes well this season, we should be picking late in the 1st round of the 2013 draft (with the Lombardi Trophy sitting in Flowery Branch, reflecting the televised coverage of Mike Mayock & Co. next April), but if TD can somehow get William Gholston (Mich. State DE) either through trade up or Jedi Mind trick on the other 31 NFL GMs …
Big Crimson 75
September 9th, 2012
8:40 pm
Matty Ice is set for a big Season.
Offense looked great.
As for the D — at least we have Coaching this year!!
Ray Edwards & Bierman have got to step their game up.
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:40 pm
Yeah, JSS….i can’t imagine why they brought him back. My couch has more personality.
My TV has better ideas. My drink glass has more sense.
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:40 pm
The talent on the Hardees commercial almost make those bbq burgers look edible…almost.
ijonathan
September 9th, 2012
8:41 pm
JSS, what is so funny about strawman arguments?
DawgNole
September 9th, 2012
8:43 pm
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:29 pm
And while an ass and annoying as can be, Choke has been right 4 years running…
___________________
It’s not a matter of being right or wrong. It’s the manner of presentation and–more importantly–the sick-minded motivation behind it.
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:43 pm
Big Dumb Lou – who’s making you read anything? Go color, doodle, drool, eat, babble a bit or something.
DawgNole
September 9th, 2012
8:44 pm
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:35 pm
Bob Weiss….
Why would you bring back the definition of catatonic? He couldn’t coach church league ball…
_______________
Co-sign. Always thought someone should check to see if he had a pulse.
DawgNole
September 9th, 2012
8:47 pm
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:38 pm
Choke is no joke until we actually win a playoff game….
_____________________
That won’t matter at all. It’ll be the same trash–with slightly modified excuses for it.
Kyle
September 9th, 2012
8:49 pm
Why do u guys care what some cracked out loser types on the internet? He’s either a Vick fan or a Saints fan and is taking his frustration out on an internet message board bc he’s pissed bc whoever he pulls for looked horrid and The Falcons & Ryan looked great. He posts this stuff on here bc he doesn;t have the balls to say it to anyone’s face. The only players that choked today were the saints that got owned by a rookie QB in his first ever start and Vick w his 4 INTs.
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:50 pm
Maybe so….
Trolls are people too
September 9th, 2012
8:50 pm
Although I was happy with the outcome, we as fans cannot afford to get this excited when playing one game against a team that did not have three of their defensive starters. 40 points is nice, but my concerns remain the same:
1) 3rd down defense. The Falcons gave up conversions on everything from 3rd and 5 to 3rd and 19! Some will argue scheme and/or talent in the secondary, but the obvious weakness is lack of pass rush. Maybe the Chiefs OL is solid– that doesn’t mean that the Falcons should only come away with two sacks! I don’t remember a single team making it deep into the playoffs without a very strong pass rush.
2) The offensive line still concerns me. I don’t know who lined up against Sam Baker, but I guarantee that won’t always be the case.
3) Michael Turner. To me, this guy continues to run directly into would be tacklers and has no vision or presence at all. I’ve heard everything from the “statistics” argument (he’s second only to AP in yards over the last five yards) to the “fullback” argument (he needs a hole to run through) but both of those arguments are not truly in context. In fact, watching his performance during the win-or-go-home games shows me why he was never a number one until we traded for him. I’m not denouncing what he’s done for the Falcons, but I don’t, nor ever did believe him to be the “future” a la Ray Rice, Arian Foster, Matt Forte, AP, Jamaal Charles, or even Doug Martin (who looks like the real deal btw!).
Those were just the negatives I harped on, but I’m a huge fan and will continue to believe in this team’s management because they’ve shown where their heart is and that’s good enough for me. From 40+ years of no back-to-back winning seasons to four in a row? Yea, I may have my opinions but there’s a reason I don’t work in the front office. Great Win Falcons! Here’s to hoping it’s only a taste of things to come!
Gomer
September 9th, 2012
8:57 pm
Matt “CHOKE” Ryan…..I know you now….I’m gonna bust your balls tomorrow on the turds of tech blog…..
phil
September 9th, 2012
8:59 pm
Hater…
DawgNole
September 9th, 2012
9:01 pm
Trolls are people too
September 9th, 2012
8:50 pm
Although I was happy with the outcome, we as fans cannot afford to get this excited when playing one game against a team that did not have three of their defensive starters. 40 points is nice, but my concerns remain the same . . . .
___________________
Won’t have to wait long to find out what we got. Next game (vs Denver/Manning) is a Monday-nighter, which means an ATL pro team will be thrust into the white-hot spotlight of the national stage. And most of us know all to well what that traditionally has meant for ALL ATL pro teams.
Get a win in that one, and it’s immediate early-season national respect.
ANOTHER loss, and it’s more of the same ol’ same ol’–plus the blogs will be “choked” with the stench of the contributors that ATL’s defeats inevitably generate.
phil
September 9th, 2012
9:01 pm
Turds of Tech blog….
Good grief.
phil
September 9th, 2012
9:05 pm
The stench of negative contributors….lol!
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
9:13 pm
Why are my truthful comments being deleted? I think I know.
Eric C.
September 9th, 2012
9:14 pm
MCR, choke, whoever you are, ha…c’mon, even an old salty cynic like you has to find some glimmer of hope in today’s performance…right?
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
9:16 pm
Certain comments are being allowed while others are deleted. What’s the matter Jeff? Cann’t handle what you know is the truth?
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
9:17 pm
I seems racism is a one way street.
Eric C.
September 9th, 2012
9:17 pm
The dream game trip that could have been…watch the Dawgs crash the Zoo party and then step over and watchTG throw down in KC, still kicking myself for not planning this out better. But kudos to those who did.
Trolls are people too
September 9th, 2012
9:18 pm
DawgNole,
Sadly, you’re absolutely correct. I guess it’s hard for most to tiptoe the line between fan and homer. I think haters are a good thing. I just never knew the AJC was so good that people not from here spent more time on these blogs than those that are.
randydlee
September 9th, 2012
9:20 pm
Is it me,or is the lack of pass interference calls by replacement referees a blessing.
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
9:22 pm
There are those on here who hate Matt Ryan simply because he is white, They acctualy feel the Falcons “turned their back on vick”. He was IN JAIL BEFORE BEING RELEASED. How was that turning your back?
LOL at the Braves
September 9th, 2012
9:23 pm
How much did you drink today?
Day One Fan
September 9th, 2012
9:26 pm
I am waiting for an answer.
Post-it
September 9th, 2012
9:29 pm
@Trolls. Good objective post. And while I think Turner has lost a half a step I’d still take him over Jamal Charles. I know he had a few decent runs today. But for the most part our defense made him look small and unsure of his lanes.
LOL at the Braves
September 9th, 2012
9:29 pm
I drank a lot. I just started on my second case of beer.
Mo
September 9th, 2012
9:35 pm
Was it me or did KC’s defense look confused the entire game?
Trolls are people too
September 9th, 2012
9:36 pm
Post-it,
I hear what you’re saying, and the Falcons second-half defensive adjustments were excellent. But I think Jamaal Charles has some incredible vision and his general ability to find a hole as opposed to looking for one would make me choose him over Turner. He looked great coming back off that injury too! I always cheer for a guy coming back from a potential career-ending injury.
LOL at the Aints
September 9th, 2012
9:39 pm
At LOL at the Braves,, not enough to have a conversation with you LOL!!
LOL at the Aints
September 9th, 2012
9:41 pm
Trolls are people too,, Good One,,,
JSS
September 9th, 2012
9:45 pm
Charles s coming back from reconstructive knee surgery… That’s why they got two more backs… They ran up the middle and right well and then after the half tried going left side for no good reason… From that point forward, they were doomed…
Buckhed Benny
September 9th, 2012
9:57 pm
I think our offensive line will benefit tremendoulsy from not trying to establish the run- I kept saying why dont you just give defensive coordinators a reason to blitz- the way they looked at it they one either way- it was either a run blitz for them or a pass blitz- Mularkey only had a few routes they called to run and the db’s sat on all of them- They loved it when Michael Turner ran- It chewed up clock and kept julio and roddy from going deep quick-
Mularkey just didn’t want to graduate into the new era of pass first football- He is a dinosaur and will be done soon down in Jacksonville- too predicatble
Our offenive line might be better than we think when you don’t have defenses pinning their ears back rushing every play….
Post-it
September 9th, 2012
9:58 pm
Good point on Charles. Hope he stays healthy. KC fans deserve a competitive team.
Trolls are people too
September 9th, 2012
10:00 pm
They definitely got Hillis for insurance, but he’s clearly a change of pace back and was brought in to complement Charles, which he did a horrible job of today. They were “doomed” once they had three turnovers on three consecutive drives. What was up with Cassel throwing the ball at Abraham’s feet? Even Abe looked at him like “really?!”
Post-it
September 9th, 2012
10:11 pm
That throw at Abraham’s feet was one of the most awkward plays I’ve seen a qb make in a long time. Though he did get rid of it without a penalty. Cassel went from pro bowl caliber in the first half to Joey Harrington’s twin in the second.
coacht
September 9th, 2012
10:17 pm
great start. Offense looked good…great even. A couple of field goals when TD’s were in reach but other than that…..Defense came on strong….obviously our use of 6 rotating defensive ends and lineman has a wearing effect that shows up in the second half.
coacht
September 9th, 2012
10:23 pm
To RandyLee
I also liked the fewer calls. Game seemed to move a lot smoother.
And I saw where Tony G was held a tad on one play in first half and the announcers made a big
deal about the no call on our touchdown pick play where Harry D had a block perhaps beyond
the one yard allowable distance for such blocks.
But I say fewer tickey tack calls made for a better game.
Jeff Schultz
September 9th, 2012
10:27 pm
OK folks. Once more, with feeling.
1) No race baiting.
2) No profanity.
3) No profanity even cleverly disguised with symbols to get past filter.
4) No anything else that you KNOW is going to tick me off.
Any violation of these rules will result in banning.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
10:33 pm
Champ/Dumerville/Von Miller/Peyton says bring it.
They are going to embarrass you on national television.
Julio won’t be doing the dirty bird next week
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
10:39 pm
EARLY PLAYOFF SUCCESS
Flacco has done it…………
Sanchez has done it………….
Tebow has done it………….
TJ Yates has done it……………
CHOKE not so much…..ha ha
Fred Macmurray
September 9th, 2012
10:40 pm
Proud of the guys today,, did what they needed to do,, now lets go dismantle the Broncos,,, Go Falcons,,,
Suckerfreehaterblog
September 9th, 2012
10:40 pm
AINTS embrassed on TV today ……now what!?
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
10:46 pm
Eric C.
September 9th, 2012
9:14 pm
MCR, choke, whoever you are, ha…c’mon, even an old salty cynic like you has to find some glimmer of hope in today’s performance…right?
______________________________________________
Sure……Julio is a stud and CHOKE is a dud.
He’s just riding the shirt tail of the new hand.
He rode Turner’s shirt tail until he got burnt out.
Then he rode Tony G and now he’s retiring.
Nex up……Julio
Rip
September 9th, 2012
10:46 pm
We still have no defensive overage or pass rush, an here comes Denver, I can see P. Manning smiling when he thinks about this paper bag defense.
DavidF
September 9th, 2012
10:59 pm
The running game needs work, but OL coach Pat Hill seems to be doing a solid job upping the pass protection.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
11:13 pm
CHOKE’s noodle arm is going to have a longgggggggggg day vs that tight coverage in Denver and Manning is making the great Steeler defense look ordinary.
I can hardly wait for Monday night
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 9th, 2012
11:30 pm
Damn that Denver secondary is murder…………
Poor CHOKE…..ha ha
"CON" Vick
September 10th, 2012
12:14 am
STAYING OUT OF JAIL
Flacco has done it…………
Sanchez has done it………….
Tebow has done it………….
TJ Yates has done it……………
CHOKE has done it, too……
Dog Killer? Not so much.
Supes
September 10th, 2012
12:39 am
Troll Choke’s boi today…4 INT and barely beat the worthless Browns…Matt Ryan lights up an improved Chiefs team (look it up, they were trending UP toward the end of last year) and are predicted to rebound back this year (as far as W-L record goes)
Matt Ryan owns Choke’s little narrow minded brain…love it!
Go Falcons Go!
Blake
September 10th, 2012
1:11 am
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan…If we won the super bowl you’d have something negative to say….so GO AWAY….GO CHOKE ON A PHILLY CHEESESTEAK….He has improved His arm strength In the off season and He’s got the smarts to get us some playoff victories….It will happen and then you will really blow a gasket. I can tell this really bothers you so you MUST be jealous of something….maybe because philly didn’t draft Him and yuz guys got Vick….please….your pathetic….!
Blake
September 10th, 2012
1:15 am
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan….go put on that green and white outfit….you know…tinkerbells….
panic fan
September 10th, 2012
2:03 am
Very nice to not see runs on 1st down for no gain D mike will be a huge GAMBLER in scheme and adjustments. Game film of how not to blitz Mr manning will help him this next week dab a deuce and the back half better get ready to catch the ball ITS ON IN THE DOME EVERY OTHER WEEK IN 2012
joeyoff
September 10th, 2012
2:51 am
lol you guys are funny! Falcons did great. But the real test will be next week against Denver. If we can handily win that game we’ll be set. Denver’s offense though I don’t see playing a whole lot better than the first half against KC as they did superb and fell apart. Manning won’t fall apart so we gotta take it when we have the chance. Manning will be tougher to defend so we gotta do a better job at getting pressure. I’m honestly not worried about the falcons offense at all. We actually have a little too much talent on that side of the ball imo.
Columbus
September 10th, 2012
4:38 am
Dawgs need to be taught that new play from another planet too. It looks like it just might be one of the best all time plays in the game….!
All you haters. Hatin on the Dawgs. Hatin on Richt. Hatin on the Falcons. Hatin on Ryan. Hatin, hatin, hatin! Wow. What a bunch of ignorant idiots with such pathetic lives that they have to alwasy find something to hate on. Umm, Ryan won and had a great game in his FIRST game with a new OC.
Maybe the problem wasnt Ryan….MAYBE his OC had taken him as far as he could take him. Maybe the league had caught up to the same old Mularkey…..pun intended. Ryan might not have been the problem the WHOLE time and you have been hatin on him without justification.
MAYBE you dont know jack squat when you hate on Ryan or ANYBODY else. I bet the same ones on here been hatin on Chipper, Richt, Dawgs, Braves, Falcons, Ryan, Uggla, McCann, and whoever they can think of from the past! Bet they still blaming Bush too….ROFL.
UGA is going to go undefeated into the SEC Championship game most likely and they will STILL want Richt fired, etc. Their so stupid, we just got to laugh at all these ignorant, impatient, wet behind the ears, dont now nothing, putting a huge damper on ALL our teams who ARE having good seasons and all are contenders. KILLJOYS! Haters…..gotta hate em!
Columbus
September 10th, 2012
4:42 am
Not gonna handily win against Denver. Their defense is too stout and then there is the thin air too. Not many teams go into Denver and win when Denver is decent and now that they have an offense, they are one of the best teams in the league. PERIOD. SO, if the Falcons can find a way to come out with a 1 point win….that would say a whole LOT….
Smooth Operator
September 10th, 2012
6:13 am
@Columbus
The Denver game is in Atlanta……………
Samuel
September 10th, 2012
6:29 am
Okay, the Falcons showed progress and versatility on offense . Now on defense the first half was terrible. I want to see that offense roll when the Broncos come to town. Consistency, has to be a premise, if they are to get a win Sunday. Plus the defense has to step their game up………
ZACK
September 10th, 2012
6:35 am
Nice to see the offense attack for a change. It looks like the “Burner” is done and the team must look at RB in the near future. Now lets go out and beat a quality team Monday!
Esquire
September 10th, 2012
6:56 am
Great win for the Falcons! I don’t want to downplay it…..1-0 is a beginning to a Championship season. HOWEVER, let’s not get giddy. Tamba Hali vs Sam Baker, I would have liked to have seen that match up.
KC Star says ” Chiefs’ problems deeper than missing star players” – “In the last four seasons, three teams have given up 40 or more points in a season opener at home — and two are the Chiefs.”
Denver scored 31 on last years #1 defense. Dirty Birds…bring your A game, your Gritz Blitz, Special Forces and a VERY LOUD DOMEFIELD ADVANTAGE!! It’s gonna be a war!
Esquire
September 10th, 2012
7:15 am
@ZACK
September 10th, 2012
6:35 am
Nice to see the offense attack for a change. It looks like the “Burner” is done and the team must look at RB in the near future. Now lets go out and beat a quality team Monday!
________________________________________________
Maybe if he got 10 yards behind Ryan he would be full speed at the line of scrimmage. Last year of his contract………….who could they draft @ #32 in the first round…….? Looks a little thin @ RB for 2013 draft.
FalCONS won the SB yesterday?
September 10th, 2012
7:20 am
You would think so, right? Wll still finish 3rd or 4th in the NFC South….Panthers and Failcons in the cellar….fact…
Ivan
September 10th, 2012
7:24 am
Ryan put on a stellar performance.
And WoW! Vick looked like trash. 4 INTS and 2 Fumbles vs a BROWNS team. Funniest thing I heard on ESPN was when the commentator says, “Don’t worry Eagles fans! At least he’s staying HEALTHY to throw all these picks!”
Really?
September 10th, 2012
7:31 am
For all you newcomers, as Matt ‘Choke’ Ryan introduced himself, he’s been here since 2008 when he started 8th grade. He comes to our website because the New Orleans Times Picayune, their excuse for a newspaper, doesn’t have a blog. He comes here to gloat when N.O. wins and to make excuses, as with today, when N.O. lays a big egg.
Najeh Davenpoop
September 10th, 2012
8:42 am
The Falcons looked like Super Bowl contenders yesterday. I think this win is going to look even more impressive later in the season when the Chiefs establish themselves as wild card contenders in the AFC. But with that said, it is Week 1. They have looked awfully impressive in regular season games plenty of times over the last four years. Enjoy the win, but keep Winston Wolfe’s advice in mind at the same time.
The Truth
September 10th, 2012
8:44 am
Who dat ?? Who dat ???
Wet Willie...keep on smiling
September 10th, 2012
9:08 am
Just throw the ball to Julio….sounds like a great plan. This should be a great game with Denver.
Dammit Schultz
September 10th, 2012
9:13 am
It was a simple question and for some block headed reason, you removed it.
Are there any black kickers in the NFL?
D man
September 10th, 2012
9:13 am
Enter your comments hereFalcons looked great.
Najeh Davenpoop
September 10th, 2012
9:14 am
Reggie Hodges of the Browns is a black punter, for whatever it’s worth.
Quiz time
September 10th, 2012
9:17 am
What’s black and gold and loses at home?
Quiz time
September 10th, 2012
9:18 am
What’s black and gold and loses to a rookie QB?
Quiz time
September 10th, 2012
9:21 am
What’s black and gold and is a bunch of losers?
tspec
September 10th, 2012
9:41 am
I honestly think Matt”choke”Ryan has a serious schoolgirl crush on the real Matt Ryan! It’s 2012, you don’t have to stay in the closet, I accept your sexuality and have no problem with it, although the real Matt is Heterosexual I’m sure he’s flattered!!!!!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
9:45 am
I saw nothing new here.
Turner was great and he carried the loser known as CHOKE. Now he is burnt out trying to carry that loser.
Roddy wass great and carried the loser.
Tony was great, but carrying the loser at his age is forcing retirement.
Up next…..Julio. He looks great and is carrying the loser.
Sorry dreamers but carrying a loser is contagious……
HA HA
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
9:47 am
Here’sssssssssssssssssss Manning!
So you fools used to say CHOKE was the 2nd coming of Peyton.
WELL, WELL, WELL…..here comes the real deal and not a knockoff…ha ha.
Seriously if you get shutout in the biggest game of the season, you are a ZERO not a HERO
Hollywould
September 10th, 2012
9:53 am
Nice game/ loved the adjustments Nolan made a half time. Choke, did Vick just throw anothe pick?
Hollywould
September 10th, 2012
9:54 am
Nice game. Loved the adjustments on D Nolan made a halftime. Choke, was that another pick Vick just threw? Well, it was his biggest game as no playoffs last year .
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
9:54 am
A DELUSIONAL POEM.
In 2008 we had so much hope
Instead we got a CHOKE.
We hated Vick so much
So we drafted in a rush.
Winning playoff games mean so little
So we got a qb soft and brittle.
Playoff wins come so easy to the man name Flacco
But in Atlanta we have a losing whacko.
72 million might as well be a gift
A tax write off so ole Art’s finances got a lift.
2002, 2004 we will see no more
Because this loser stinks not soars.
Go Falcons!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
9:54 am
A DELUSIONAL POEM.
In 2008 we had so much hope
Instead we got a CHOKE.
We hated Vick so much
So we drafted in a rush.
Winning playoff games mean so little
So we got a qb soft and brittle.
Playoff wins come so easy to the man name Flacco
But in Atlanta we have a losing whacko.
72 million might as well be a gift
A tax write off so ole Art’s finances got a lift.
2002, 2004 we will see no more
Because this loser stinks not soars.
Go Falcons!
splendid splinter
September 10th, 2012
9:55 am
Anyone out there who remembers when the last time the Braves swept a weekend series, the Falcons won, Tech won and UGA won – all on the same weekend? It has happened once before – I think in the late 90’s.
splendid splinter
September 10th, 2012
9:55 am
Anyone out there who remembers when the last time the Braves swept a weekend series, the Falcons won, Tech won and UGA won – all on the same weekend? It has happened once before – I think in the late 90’s.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
9:57 am
So Vick has been gone for 6 years and still owns the Falcants last playoff win…………….
Atlanta talk to me….ha ha
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
10:04 am
Parents don’t let your kids watch this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8U_YhU0HgdI
Traymon Williams is my hero….ha ha
What kind of idiot makes a pick 6 before half time?
Jaded
September 10th, 2012
10:12 am
Last year, Ryan failed the eyeball test. Although he put up solid numbers, he often looked tentative and uncomfortable in the pocket. Yesterday looked like a new Matt Ryan. I’ve never seen him appear to be so in command of the offense. He also did a much better job feeling and evading the rush, which was a real weakness last year. I see reason to believe he could have a huge year.
My concern is still with the inconsistent pass rush. Ray Edwards continues to be the Invisible Man.
Manny
September 10th, 2012
10:12 am
This Falcons offense is stacked! This offense has more weapons than at any time that I’ve seen, save 1998, but we have an even better receiving corps.
I mean, look at these toys:
You have Roddy White- a constant Pro-Bowler who can get the dropsies; but when he’s catching it, he’s the ultimate professional.
You have Julio Jones- that big-play receiver with speed, big body and toughness. He’s our Megatron, our scary, scary monster who’s only downside is inexperience.
You have your backfield- that you really didn’t use much yesterday, but can pound and beat a defense in the 4th Quarter. Plus, you have someone who can catch the ball from the backfield and make big plays.
You have your TE, whose a walking HOFer, that still have some left in the tank.
And you have Matt Ryan- whose offense is tailor-made for his strengths… back-shoulder throws, throws to big bodies, quick-outs on hot reads from the line, the ability to rack up RACs all day, etc. Matt Ryan should have a record year with all of these weapons on offense.
All that being said, I’m optimistic about the season. But all of this means nothing without ONE playoff win. If this team can’t win a playoff game, I’m looking for them to blow up the Defense, for Mike Smith to either be gone or on the Hot Seat and real competition at quarterback (if there’s a lackluster performance on the offense. But if the offense was strong, then you take that into consideration.)
In short, playoff win. Give ‘em that and many may take their Vick #7 Falcons jerseys off. Remember, there are some who just like the exciting play, but many wear their jerseys to remind them of what it felt like to win a playoff game, which was 8 years ago.
BulldogBen
September 10th, 2012
10:15 am
Only complaints I have are that the Defense couldn’t stop anything in the 1st half but made great adjustments for the 2nd half.
The other being Michael Turner. I hope the drop off isn’t as dramatic as many fear it could be.
BulldogBen
September 10th, 2012
10:15 am
Only complaints I have are that the Defense couldn’t stop anything in the 1st half but made great adjustments for the 2nd half.
The other being Michael Turner. I hope the drop off isn’t as dramatic as many fear it could be.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
10:30 am
The Falcants are going to take a beating Monday night and the WHOLE world is going to watch
Champ Bailey at one corner & Porter on the other.
The dink & dunks will be on display…..ha ha
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
10:33 am
Damn Manning put up 31 vs the number 1 defense and the Falcants think they are ready for the train wreck in the dome Monday?
Yeah and the Easter Bunny is real and Santa Claus is a Senate Bill
DawgNole
September 10th, 2012
10:40 am
Columbus
September 10th, 2012
4:42 am
Not gonna handily win against Denver. Their defense is too stout and then there is the thin air too. Not many teams go into Denver and win when Denver is decent and now that they have an offense, they are one of the best teams in the league. PERIOD. SO, if the Falcons can find a way to come out with a 1 point win….that would say a whole LOT….
_________________
You’re always on the blogs, running your rah-rah yap about what a great fan you are. Bunch of BS, obviously, since you don’t even know where the Falcons’ next game is being played. Hint: NOT in Denver. Duh!
Ivan
September 10th, 2012
10:44 am
On Espn: “Falcons’ Matt Ryan leads NFL in Total QBR”
DawgNole
September 10th, 2012
10:44 am
Dammit Schultz
September 10th, 2012
9:13 am
It was a simple question and for some block headed reason, you removed it.
Are there any black kickers in the NFL?
___________________
The orginal question, as I recall, was “How many black kickers are there in the NFL.” The answer is probably about as many as there are white cornerbacks.
What’s your point?
morn
September 10th, 2012
10:54 am
If the defense was worth a dang they might make the SB
chris
September 10th, 2012
10:57 am
just got to get that defense on same planet….
U D# MANN
September 10th, 2012
11:45 am
If
MIKE VICK was QB wed have gotten beat 56-10 to the ciefs(REMEMBER????)
U D# MANN
September 10th, 2012
11:46 am
the defense only allowed 7 points after adjustements most of that was garbage yards…….D was ok
ATLFAN01
September 10th, 2012
11:59 am
Where are all the Saint Fans who like to Troll the AJC today?
TroutFalcon
September 10th, 2012
12:07 pm
What a performance by Matt Ryan and the vertical offense, to only punt 1 time the entire game is amazing.
North FLA Falcon
September 10th, 2012
12:09 pm
There was some sloppy tackling, we had little or no pass rush, and guys still seemed to get open quite frequently. Did we re-install the “soft cover zone” again on a few plays? LIke on KC’s 3rd downs? So we have some things to work on, quickly, because Peyton is going to eat our lunch. We have proven on offense and on special teams that we can compete in a *shootout*! Falcons not great on Monday nights … I think one of our only wins was when Tim Mazetti kicked 5 fgs to beat the Vikings … so let’s turn that around!!!
Football Runners » Falcons finally show an offense worthy of their talent
September 10th, 2012
12:18 pm
[...] Atlanta Journal-Constitution Click here for full article [...]
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
12:59 pm
I’m so jealous right now. It’s not fair that you have a better team than I do! : (
Trolls are people too
September 10th, 2012
1:08 pm
@ Matt “CHOKE” Ryan:
Your comments are hilarious, although extremely lacking in creativity. I say continue posting if for any other reason than to give me a hearty laugh. A few general responses to your comments (since you always have the same ones):
1) You claim that all of the falcons receivers and RB’s look great and saved Ryan. Interesting take. I suppose Jennings and Nelson do the same for Rodgers? Or the two tight ends for Brady? Or how about Jackson, McCoy and Celek for Vick? Yea, that gem made a lot of sense.
2) Ryan has no playoff victories: true! No argument there. Probably the only thing I agree with you about.
3) Ryan can’t throw a good deep ball. Errr, first play as a Falcon was a 40 yard bomb to Jenkins against the Lions. Next?
4) Something about the past. Still clinging to events happening one, two, and three years ago? Yea, Vick did look great with four picks against the Browns. Too recent? He looked great in the playoffs last year too- wait, his team didn’t make it?
Maybe if your arguments had some cohesion I could respect them but as is, you’re clearly lacking in knowledge and seem to beat a dead horse; somewhat ironic considering your idol.
But as I said, I love humor in my life so keep the comments coming!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
1:18 pm
Ok, I was hoping to spark more anger. I live for that. People joke about me living in my grandma’s basement, but I get by. That is why I live for this blog, to tear down any hope and happiness people have for the Falcants. I’m miserable and so I love the company.
miked706
September 10th, 2012
1:25 pm
Great win by the Falcons, but I must say this and wonder is Bradley and Schultz will agree. It’s time for Michael Turner and Ray Edwards to go. They are stealing money from this team and bring nothing to it. Michael Turner gets slower and slower each year. Ray Edwards get ZERO pass rich and isn’t a factor on the front four. Again great win by the Falcons offense looked outstanding.
miked706
September 10th, 2012
1:28 pm
Meant rush
North FLA Falcon
September 10th, 2012
1:31 pm
MikeD, could not agree more.
Sean "The Bounty Hunter" Peyton
September 10th, 2012
1:36 pm
Anybody see what happened with the Saints game today? I’m not allowed to be involved with the team in anyway for a year.
miked706
September 10th, 2012
2:08 pm
Sean The Bounty Hunter Payton They missed you.
))))))) I was so happy they lost. I haven’t forgotten how they ran the score up on us for Brees to break that record. Still throwing up 38-16 with 1:54 sec lfet in the game. They got what they deserved.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
September 10th, 2012
3:11 pm
Grimes is done!
Every time the Falcants fans gets their hopes up after beating a sorry team…..boom here comes the Grim Reaper……
That Mike Vick curse is a helluva drug
To make matters worse, they only have 1.4 of cap money to spend.
Johnny Be Good
September 10th, 2012
3:18 pm
@ Matt “CHOKE” Ryan
Dude, get a LIFE!!! You must be one of those Occupy Wallstreet losers who has nothing better to do. You really sound like a troll! How old are you? 12
ThankGodMalarky'sGone
September 10th, 2012
4:26 pm
It’s simple. Malarky was the problem with his incredibly PREDICTABLE offense.
Go Matt, Julio, Roddy, Gonzo et al.
ThankGodMalarky'sGone
September 10th, 2012
4:29 pm
“Choke”… you do realize Vick s-u-c-k-e-d yesterday don’t you? And Ryan, Julio, and others were great putting 40 pts on the board.
And Grimes is a fine young man who got injured. And you’re gloating over that?
Are you just a sick person?
JSS
September 11th, 2012
7:45 am
@ 1:08 PM…
“3) Ryan can’t throw a good deep ball. Errr, first play as a Falcon was a 40 yard bomb to Jenkins against the Lions. Next?”
His (Ryan) first pass was thrown from the Falcons 32 and caught by Jenkins at the Lions 45 (that’s 23 yards)… So 40 yard might be a bit of stretch…
I wonder if ijonathan would consider that a “straw man argument?”
Trolls are people too
September 12th, 2012
12:42 pm
@JSS
You are correct. Looking back, I was actually referencing the 50 yard throw to Roddy from their 37 to opposing 11. You caught me– I still stand by the overall point that Ryan’s arm is more than adequate.
Re: Koetter/Mularkey — Roddy probably shouldn’t talk so much, but…..
September 12th, 2012
4:49 pm
[...] http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/2…ir-talent/ Quote:“This is what it was supposed to be like last year,” said White, in a veiled shot at former offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey. “This is what we expected.” [...]