The Falcons: From 1-15 to the NFC title game, SN says
OK, this Falcons’ mania, over which we’ve remarked at length, is officially off the hook. The Sporting News Pro Football yearbook, which last season picked the Birds to go 1-15, rates them somewhat more highly this time.
It picks them to go 11-5, to win the NFC South by two full games and — wait for it — to win two playoff games and play the New York Giants for the NFC title.
(Thankfully, the magazine does not pick the Falcons to win the NFC title.)
I’d link to all of this gushing, but no such link exits. (Preseason magazines don’t usually appear online, for a basic reason: If they did, nobody would pay $7.99 plus tax — as I just did — to read one.) But I have offered visual proof above, and I will take the liberty of quoting from SNPF 2009.
And let me just note that, once again, the overall forecast doesn’t appear to have been offered by the same person who wrote the Falcons’ profile. Last year’s team outlook was the work of esteemed colleague D. Orlando Ledbetter, who was as surprised as anyone over the 1-15 projection. This year Falcons’ capsules were done by Roy Cummings of the Tampa Tribune, who writers:
“These Falcons appear to be built for the long haul. But if they can’t make a swift transition on the defensive side of the ball [Editor's note: Why not simply "on defense"?], the Falcons could lose the momentum gained last year and go from being the league’s biggest surprise to its biggest disappointment …
“Expectations for this franchise are high again — maybe too high. The defense remains in rebuilding mode and the offense is still young at the most crucial spot on the field. The special teams are strong, though. If the defense can get better and the offense can avoid a precipitous drop in production, the Falcons should stay in the hunt for a division title to the end. This doesn’t look like a team that’s ready to make a long run in the playoffs, but a second straight postseason is possible.”
OK, so now you’re asking: Does SNPF 2009 really like the Falcons or not? Yes and no, I guess. But I’ll leave you with the magazine’s obligatory View From An Unnamed Opponent:
“You have to start with Matt Ryan, who was just lights-out last year. He’s an outstanding player, and he obviously has a great command of the game and great knowledge and awareness of what’s going on around him. They’re real solid there and should be for a while.
“They have a very strong running game, too, with [Michael] Turner, and with [Jerious] Norwood they’ve got that changeup kind of back there as well. They also have one of the best fullbacks in the league [in Ovie Mughelli]. You talk about one-on-one blocking and moving people; he’s really good at it.
“On defense, the pass rush needs a little bit of a kick-start. Everybody’s getting on Jamaal Anderson, but he’s still playing pretty well. I’m not ready to sign off on him just yet. If he can get better or if they can add another guy to help out John Abraham, they should be OK there.
“Chauncey Davis could be that guy, but I see him more as a rotational guy. If they get that pass rush going, they should be all right. But they’ve made a lot of changes at linebacker and in the secondary, so you have to see how that’s going to work out.”
(Coming attraction: The next Bradley post, set to arrive at 10:40 a.m., will be the Monday Bradley’s Buzz. Topics include Frenchy in NY, the Thrashers and … Jim Harrick?)
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149 comments Add your comment
All-Ball-Bearings
July 13th, 2009
5:06 am
Preseason magazine stuff is more full of wild guesses than, well, a blog filed at 4:38 a.m. on a Monday. Go birds! (But with a whole lot of caution.)
Coach (2010 or Bust)
July 13th, 2009
6:30 am
Hey, I’m not a Falcons fan but I must say, For someone to put a fresh blog at 4:38 in the morning is like beating the Rooster to his crow!
MiltonDawg
July 13th, 2009
7:21 am
Good Stuff MB. Expectations are there, let’s just hope the jinx doesn’t happen. SN feels bad for picking the Birds to go 1-15 last year and trying to save some face by picking them to go deep in the playoffs. Ryan will be phenomenal this year.
MightyQuinn
July 13th, 2009
7:30 am
re, the 0438 posting, they have drugs for insomnia, Mark. As they say in the commercials, see your doctor. As for the Falcons, all these accolades (sp? too early to look it up) make me nervous. Tough schedule, lots of questions on D. Do we have enough O to win shootouts? Like the story of the Zen Master in “Charlie Wilson’s War”….we’ll see.
athensdawg
July 13th, 2009
7:45 am
quinn….well put. as with all atlanta sports franchises….we’ll see.
Tman
July 13th, 2009
7:48 am
Prognostications have a way of being wrong, and I don’t think there’s any way to tell exactly how things will play out on the defensive side of the ball. The Falcons’ linebackers, I believe, are better than advertised, but the secondary has many question marks with the drafted William Moore and the cornerbacks. The Tampa quote about the line is dead-on. A historical question for you, Mark. You’ve noted (as have many others) that the Falcons have never had back to back winning seasons and that they fail whenever they seem to be on the verge of breaking out. During the years 1971-1973, they had records of 7-6-1, 7-7, and 9-5. Not a bad run, but then they tanked. Who was the general manager? What led to the downfall? This was a near-miss!
MightyQuinn
July 13th, 2009
8:11 am
Dawg, thanks. And Tman, I can’t remember who was the GM then but they were owned by the Smith family and thats all you really need to know!
Mac
July 13th, 2009
8:15 am
Editor’s answer: Perhaps he’s getting paid by the word.
Beagledog
July 13th, 2009
8:29 am
The pubs are just guessing like us. The success or failure will depend on how quick the young guys adapt and get after it on D. I have faith in Smith but they may take a little time learning each other’s tendencies. We may have to score 35-40 points to win.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
8:55 am
I would imagine there will be some 38-35 games this year, but what do I know? I thought the 2008 Falcons would have to try to win every game 20-17.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
8:56 am
ENorm Van Brocklin was coach/gm
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
8:57 am
Norm
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
9:02 am
D has always been the Falcons achilles heel when it comes to back to back winning seasons. We have a lot of question marks this year but I feel pretty good about the staff and I feel great about our Offense and Mularkey running it.
dwayne
July 13th, 2009
9:03 am
Falcons have never had back to back winning seasons, D is a big question mark. Tougher schedule. Does not look good for our Falcons. Can they out score some opponents? Sure they can, but they better stay healthy. Wild card will be a stretch, history says 8-8, no playoffs. I hope I eat crow.
BRAD
July 13th, 2009
9:07 am
The Falcons have a tougher schedule this year, but it is basically the same as the rest of the division, so they should have a great chance to win the division.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
9:15 am
That’s the key, Brad. The rest of the division is in flux. The Falcons seem — at least to this observer — the soundest of the NFC South teams.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
9:15 am
STOP CRYING ABOUT THE SCHEDULE!
HighHopes
July 13th, 2009
9:15 am
I think the absence of Milloy has been underrated. I got high hopes for Moore, but when looking at Milloy’s tackle numbers and just how he helped in run support, you’ve got to hope that these new linebackers and whoever it is playing safety for us can put a stop on the run. The Buck often stopped with Milloy in rushing D, and now he’s gone. Our DT’s are a little undersized, more pass rush types I’m afraid, and the last thing i wanna see is RB’s running wild on us. That happens and we’re back to wondering what a winning season felt like. Love the Gonzalez grab though… If you wanna beat the Falcons, i’m hoping your gonna have to put up some silly points to do so, because we should be able to give opposing defenses fits trying to decide if they are going to defend pass or run. BVG has my confidence, i just hope he has the personnel to pull it off.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
9:19 am
I think the Falcons will miss Foxworth more than Milloy. But maybe I’m alone in that.
N
July 13th, 2009
9:24 am
Wait. Did you insert an “editor’s note” into a quote you stole from someone who actually wrote an original column? You know, instead of pasting in copyrighted material that people are supposed to pay for (ESPN insider, this SNPF magazine, etc.) and then bloviating? I keep waiting for the infringement lawsuit filed by ESPN against AJC / Cox Communications.
Anyway. Since I’m being snarky today, and because your glass house long since had all of its windows knocked out, I figure I’ll throw some rocks into its frame by inserting some of my own “editor’s notes”.
“The Sporting News Pro Football yearbook, which last season picked the Birds to go 1-15, rates them somewhat more highly this time [why not just "rates them more highly" -- the understatement is not witty enough to warrant clogging up the sentence].”
And of course … “Last year’s team outlook was the work of [OUR -- because even at 0438, proof reading your work product is important] esteemed colleague D. Orlando Ledbetter….”
Anyway, blah blah blah, I’m a jerk. But I am shocked week after week that you’re getting away with pasting other people’s work in for your “column” and haven’t been sued or canned. That said, I enjoy reading your “gloss,” and the free look behind the curtains of material that I would never pay for… but your snide comment was too much.
Cosmos
July 13th, 2009
9:24 am
The biggest challenge will be the schedule which is very difficult this year. They could be a better team and have a worse record than last year. I look for the offense to continue to improve but the defense has some young players that will have to get up to speed quickly.
FMV
July 13th, 2009
9:42 am
No way the Falcons win 11 games this year with Ryan at QB. Last year was a fluke as well as the league looking out for Ryan to justify putting Vick in jail and running him out of the NFL.
MightyQuinn
July 13th, 2009
9:43 am
Damn, who peed in your Wheaties this morning, N? Like it or not, its a whole new world out here in cyberjournalism. Get over it or get out.
Darrin "The Vent King"
July 13th, 2009
9:45 am
Although I find it funny now, I’ll give those guys a pass. 1-15 was harsh, but considering the season beforehand (and yes it was THAT bad), a new coach, QB, AND starting RB I can see why there were a bunch of gloom and doom picks for us pre-season. I’m also sure Coach Smith, the defensive minded coach he is, will be working hard to improve the defense. That happens and the Falcons should be fine. While I don’t expect the reg season record to be as spectacular, it won’t matter as long as we make the playoffs. Once we’re there I do expect some wins there and yes a NFC title appearance is not out of the question barring unforseen injuries. I believe this team is built for the long haul and I CAN’T WAIT for the start of next season…GO FALCONS!!!
Marcus
July 13th, 2009
9:47 am
Most interesting of all will be to see how the players react to all the presesaon praise. Is there enough veteran presence to keep us from “believing our own press”?
Hope so.
Darrin "The Vent King"
July 13th, 2009
9:47 am
I meant doom and gloom picks for us LAST season….doh!
J Smurf
July 13th, 2009
9:55 am
On a more serious note…Is Michael Turner Top 5 in PPR (Points Per Reception) Fantasy Leagues? And, will Matt Ryan throw enough to become an elite Fantasy QB?
N
July 13th, 2009
9:57 am
Haha, I thought they tasted a little off…
I’d say what peed in it was the audacity of insulting the word choice of someone from whom he is pirating his livelihood from. That he does pirate (with attribution) may well be “cyberjournalism,” but that doesn’t make it laudable or legal. As he’s noted several times, this is a _blog_ and should be read as such. I haven’t complained about it before, but neither has he insulted the other writers before. And over a mere quibble. It’s a word choice issue, with both being fine. I like Mark’s suggestion better, but that doesn’t erase the obnoxiousness of the comment, in context.
My obnoxiousness should be taken in context as well. It’s those damn Wheaties’ fault.
H
July 13th, 2009
9:59 am
Get over it or get out? Hey, MightyQuinn, call it a whole new world all you want, but MB is (at least for this week) a columnist for an actual newspaper/media conglomerate and has to abide by some of these “old world” rules, like copyright infringement. N’s point was simply that MB is quoting directly from material for which ESPN and others are charging fees and even stating that he is doing so to keep readers from paying. How he/his company have not been sued is beyond me.
Maybe there is some agreement in place that let’s the AP members lift from other sources, not being a journalist or an attorney I have no idea. Regardless, even if it is completely on the legal up and up, MB looks lazy and pompous dropping an editor’s note on the lifted piece. When was the last time one of his columns didn’t start by pointing to other columns and lifting threads from other people’s research and work?
Calvin
July 13th, 2009
10:01 am
The Falcons will never reach their full potential with THE GREAT MATT HOPELESS as the QB. The Falcons have throwed away the best athlete to ever play in ATL and it will haunt them FOR ETERNITY? Can you haters say THE 89 YEAR CURSE OF THE BABE RUTH??????? ROTFLMAO!!!!!
Supes
July 13th, 2009
10:04 am
I’m tired of reading/hearing about the “tough schedule”.
Do you think the teams that the Falcons are trying to be like…the Pats, Steeler and Colts go “oh shucks, we were going to be good but LOOK at the FRAKING schedule, it’s tough!”
You play the hand you are dealt.
Falcons will be just fine. IF they stay healthy at the key positions. That’s it. All there is to it.
12-4 and NFC south champs with a bye week and a 2nd round home game.
In TD and MS I trust!
sansho1
July 13th, 2009
10:09 am
N, you’re a lousy editor (although you do get points for omitting unnecessary characters in your screen name).
“Somewhat” understates for effect, and it works.
“Our” is implied in the work “colleague.”
As to your own contribution — “proofreading” is one word, and “work product” is redundant.
The most glaring editorial error in Bradley’s piece occurs in the pull quote. “Sign off on” means endorse, but the writer clearly intends “give up on.” Perhaps “write off” is the phrase he was searching for….
sansho1
July 13th, 2009
10:10 am
Subtract “work” and add “word.” Hoisted on me own petard!
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
10:11 am
FYI, ESPN.com linked to my alleged non-work twice last week. One of those times was in Buster Olney’s Insiders blog, to which I won’t link for fear of offending someone on here. Rob Neyer also did it, and I will offer that link for purposes of comparison.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
10:16 am
Thanks for the defense, Sansho. And I should note for the record that I don’t like using “our” to describe one of my esteemed colleagues. It’s short and accurate, yes, but to me it sounds stilted coming from a co-worker. So I use “esteemed colleague,” which of course (rolls eyes for effect) doesn’t sound stilted at all.
Ronnie Mack
July 13th, 2009
10:17 am
Yeah, Calvin, the Falcons “have throwed away the best athlete to ever play in ATL”. Wow. I’m going to venture a guess that you’re the only person in the world, including his competitors that feel Matt Ryan isn’t the right guy for the job. Yes, Vick was a great athlete; however, as was shown on and off the field, being a quarterback isn’t just about being an athlete. It’s about being a complete football player who uses his head as much as his arm. Vick just never quite got there.
Hamad Meander
July 13th, 2009
10:23 am
Good grief! How did somebody’s prognostication of the Falcons making the NFC Championship game turn into a blog that Matt Ryan is over-rated and Michael Vick was the greatest QB in NFL history?
I would rather the Falcons come into this season underrated and misjudged, but hey, someday, if you want to win a Superbowl, you have to live UP TO the expections, and not just surprise everyone.
This team has a lot of potential to score a ton of points as long as everyone stays healthy. On defense, the Falcons should have enough talent to keep another team from running wild on us. That’s a good position to be in. I think, at this juncture, that the Falcons have built a team using the resources they had that can win consistently in the NFC South. You can’t be super strong on both sides of the ball in this era of salary caps, free agency, and other attrition. This team is very stong on offense, and moderately strong on defense.
Bring on the NFC.
N
July 13th, 2009
10:31 am
MB — they did link to you (but for Falcons) on the NFC South Blog as well, which is the only one I’d seen before. I figure they are aware of your usage and cool with it. Save all the examples, just in case
Sansho — love the petard. You got the point, and I have no need to quibble with you or distract more from the Falcons (GO BIRDS!!!). For others, the point of my post is proven by its own architecture — word choice is word choice; why be a jerk? It’s always an obnoxious thing to do, and it’s even worse when you’re lifting someone else’s work product (btw — it’s a legal term, as in “attorney work product doctrine” — apologies for using terms of art, it’s old habit. Interestingly, sometimes work does not produce actually identifiable product . . . as in the case of “copy and paste” writing).
Anyway Sansho, I’ll start making people upset if I begin talking about articles, and other terms that exist in a sentence to aid readability. I also agree that it’s a good thing I don’t get paid to post anonymous comments, otherwise my miss hit on the space bar would totally be grounds for a spanking.
Reid Adair
July 13th, 2009
10:37 am
Out of curiosity, why would a writer from Tampa be doing the Falcons’ preview? Not saying it’s that bad, but it does seem strange that a magazine has a team preview that differs so much from its “predictions.”
Then again, the same thing happened a year ago.
Thanks for the information, Mark. Now I won’t have to waste money on this pre-season magazine.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
10:42 am
Oh, yeah. I forgot that one. Pat Yasinskas did that, which is only fair since I link to him all the time.
As a general rule, people like it when you link to them. And I try to be very careful not to pass off anyone else’s writing as my own. That’s why I boldface names of writers and their affiliations. That’s why I’ve taken to using the block quotes. (Also because I just now figured out how to do it on Wordpress.)
I should tell you that Bradley’s Buzz, which is and was always meant to be a collection of links, is in its 12th month of existence, and not one writer (or publication) has yet complained about the linkage.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
10:44 am
Don’t know why a Tampa writer did the Falcons preview, Reid. I’ll ask Mr. Ledbetter when next I see him.
Matty Ice
July 13th, 2009
10:49 am
I feel dumber just for having read “Calvin’s” comments. Imagine how dumb he must be because he wrote it.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
10:50 am
I’m 100% with you Supes.
I MUS WRITE-
July 13th, 2009
10:53 am
AMEN!!!! SUPES…… These guy’s are professionals -this aient the boy’s club
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
10:59 am
MB, totally agree on Foxworth. I think losing him will really hurt. I also think the half-a** replacement of our LBs could be costly. We didn’t lose much but we didn’t replace with much. This could be a real weakness. As for the schedlule, totally agree. It is the same for everybody in the division. The out of division schedule determines if you win the division with a 12-4 record or a 9-7 record.
NoleRick
July 13th, 2009
11:10 am
Been a fan of this team for over 20 years, I will play the wait and see approach, although I love the attention we are getting.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
11:13 am
Remember last training camp? Remember the Falcons picking up Foxworth and Jamaal Fudge to bolster the secondary in August? Don’t be surprised if the Falcons look to find a linebacker around the same time this year.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
11:17 am
I hope you are right MB cause Lofton is the only one I’m real comfortable and we have backups starting at the other two spots.
Ted Striker
July 13th, 2009
11:27 am
If you don’t like links and quotes, you probably don’t like a buffet either.
MiltonDawg
July 13th, 2009
11:38 am
Is Peterson supposed to be good? Enough to give Lofton some support? I’m a little uneasy about Lofton being the leader in the LB corps.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
11:38 am
Believe it or not, we at the ol’ AJC actually had some philosophical discussions about Bradley’s Buzz and the act of linking before it was launched. And research — or so I’m told — shows that online readers really like aggregation. The aforementioned Buster Olney does it on a daily basis to great effect on ESPN.com. Esteemed former colleague John Clay does it nicely for the Lexington Herald-Leader. There’s a site called Mr. SEC — it’s in my blogroll up and to the right — that links to every article regarding an SEC school.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
11:39 am
There are mixed reports on Peterson. Some think he’s not really a starting linebacker anymore, but consensus holds that he played his best under Mike Smith at Jacksonville.
MaconKnight
July 13th, 2009
11:43 am
The Falcons have never had back to back winning seasons. The real question should be is this year the Falcons finaly have back to back winning seasons! it’s so hard to predict because an injury in the preseason to ryan or any starter on the o-line or d-line can derail the whole year.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
11:47 am
Why do the Falcons need more freak’en linebackers?!?! I don’t believe the Falcons lost anyone on defense that can’t be replaced with who they have know.
Some must thinks this team is still owened by the Smith family and coached by Jim Mora and his clowns.
It was coaching that got the Falcons to 11-5 and it will be the same thing that will take them to 12-4 this year.
Great coaching and talented players equal success.
FMV
July 13th, 2009
11:47 am
Forget all this whining and crying about who wrote what. The bottom line is the Falcons will not win 11 games with Matt Ryan. Last year was a fluke. He got help from the NFL in an effort to make us forget how important Vick was to this team….Well breaking news. Some of us will never forget.
Mike Vick Forever!!!!
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
11:50 am
I wonder if the Cardinals would part with Dansby.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
11:50 am
I like that logic. “The bottom line is that the Falcons will not win 11 games with Matt Ryan.”
Even though they won 11 games under Matt Ryan in 2008.
FMV
July 13th, 2009
11:51 am
Am I being sensored?
FMV
July 13th, 2009
11:53 am
They won 11 games because the NFL want Matt Ryan to look good because he replaced the “bad” guy. Well, they can only do that so long so this year will be different.
Dan
July 13th, 2009
11:56 am
What about picking up some leadership in Derrick Brooks LB and Chris McAlister DB. I figure they can also help lead and help out the young guys.
Sarah B
July 13th, 2009
11:57 am
FMV, no you should not be sensored, but you should get educated. Last year was no fluke.
N
July 13th, 2009
11:57 am
Just to clear the air — I very much appreciate the aggregation, and I enjoy reading your postings MB. But it has been a very long while (on the Falcon front) since there was something “original”. I’d love to see some interviews (if people aren’t away on vacation). I understand that it’s that slow season right now for NFL, and it’s fine.
I also, for the record, agree with your usage of “esteemed colleague” as written. It’s best that way. My only issue was the editorial comment on word choice. Such posts always engender annoying responsive posts (like mine) which then spawn others (typically of the “zomg, you misspelled a word” or “LOLz you didn’t push the space bar” comments — see Sansho (but without the epeen and with valid arguments)). These things are distracting from the topic, and always annoying. No one’s perfect, and that’s the beauty of writing — there are so many different ways to do it, and no “right” way. Long way of saying — I definitely did not mean to offend, and hope I did not. You are always VERY clear about attribution, and links, and I do like the new quote mechanic even better. I’m just looking forward to you throwing your credentials around and getting some original content (and of all the things that have ever needed a link, Pat’s column on Stephen Nicholas deserves one).
In sum. I’m a fan, not a hater. I read after all
If I were ever punished so terribly as to be in Cleveland, I would go find that local news reporter (the self-appointed “mayor”) and slash his tires. What a chump. And even more so that he didn’t get your humor, and the point you were making.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
12:00 pm
Regarding “original content,” here’s an interview with the Falcons’ owner that ran over the weekend.
Big Bad Bird
July 13th, 2009
12:07 pm
I think everybody should not worry about the defense they will be o.k they have just what they need to be successful. Youth is just what you need on defense the ability to fly to the ball. We have a good coach defensive minded as well as a good DC there schemes will put the young guys in a position to be successful The offense has enough veterans to have the continuity to play together and dominate there side of the ball and enough back ups to not miss a beat. Another thing our team is patterned after all the successful teams of the last 5 or 7 years there a little bit of Pitt., Jax., N.E., The Giants, all recent Superbowl champions. DON’T WORRY PEOPLE TRUE FRIENDS DON’T DOUBT IT’S OUR TIME.
dwayne
July 13th, 2009
12:07 pm
FMV and Calvin, nobody ran Mike Vick out of town, 95 % of Falcon fans loved MV the football player. The real “bottom line” is, he lied to Blank, he lied to the “FEDS”, and he lied to you!!Which every person now ought to know, you CAN NOT lie to the “FEDS”. They will get you one way or the other. (his boyz turned on him quick, didn’t they)If Mike Vick would have said “yes I funded the fights, I have been around dog fighting all my life”. He would have got what most dog fighters get for first time offenders, a slap on the wrist, fine, you can’t own any more dogs, blah, blah. Look up the stats if you don not believe me. I still believe Mike Vick should be in the NFL, everyone deserves and gets 2nd, 3rd and 4rth chances in life. He should be no different. As far as PETA is concerned, they should stay out of the NFL’s business, Vick did his time. End of story.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
12:08 pm
I think the league should “let” the Falcons win 11 or 12 games this year because everyone is not over the M. Vick thing yet. It might take 10 or 11 years or until Matty Ice retires. While they are at it, you know the Hawks didn’t sign David Thompson or Marvin Webster way back when, maybe they can help us get over that too.
JSS
July 13th, 2009
12:09 pm
Falcons = one win (if their lucky) and done come tournament time (AKA the NFC division round)…
P.S. Have Fitzgerald and Bolden stopped running yet? (ROTFLMAO)
dwayne
July 13th, 2009
12:14 pm
No, Bolden and Fitz is still running….now thats funny JSS….guess what, the guy chasing them, Brooking, is still trying to catch them Dallas.
Big Bad Bird
July 13th, 2009
12:17 pm
FMV Is a Mike Vick lover, I love the guy to all love affairs end playa so let it go. and Keep it moving. Matt Ryan was the change we needed to get over the hump along with the coach. Jim Mora was to passive. To coach the team we had at that time . To many strong Egos in D. Hall, A. Crumpler, and a few others. That group need a Guy like Tom Coughlin a hard nose in your face type of guy. This regime has it together my friend the players they selected fit into scheme, and with the personality of the coach.
dcfalcon
July 13th, 2009
12:27 pm
On the scheduel . . . The NFL has built their league around a certain degree of parity and very few great teams that dominate the league year-to-year. I bet last year a lot of teams looked at the Falcons and Dolphins on their schedules and assumed wins, just as some teams saw the Pats on the schedule in the first few weeks and thought they were in trouble.
The difference between most of the teams in the league is very marginal. Injuries, coaching, chemistry and momentum / confidence tend to actually make a huge difference. Teams that look tough in July may or may not be that good come September.
This schedule is probably tougher than last year’s, but who knows? Year-to-year, the NFL is a tough place to make a living as a prognosticator.
N
July 13th, 2009
12:28 pm
Yeah, I read that and enjoyed it. I would just love to see more articles like that because of your access. I should have put my thanks for the good article in the comment section after your comment:
“Thanks, Marcus, but there really wasn’t much to this interview. I asked one question. Blank answered it. (He gives extensive answers.) Then we talked for a minute. Then we hung up.”
I didn’t just fall off the turnip truck and start reading Falcons articles from the AJC. I typically read many of the comments as well, because I like a lot of the personalities (I’ll save the shout-outs).
BillyBob
July 13th, 2009
12:38 pm
My confidence is neither in mags like Sporting News nor any other opinions before regular season games begin. My confidence is in the current GM and Head Coach. They will make us proud to be Falcon fans.
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
12:39 pm
Can anyone please explain to me why D J Shockley was the only qb on the pre season roster that didn’t get a start in the pre season, when the coach stated that each qb would get a start?
What were they afraid of? Afraid that everyone would see what everybody actually knows – D J is the best qb on the team?
Coincidentally he was the only African American qb on the roster. Is there any question why the team still has not sold out the first game yet? The Saints finished 8-8 and already sold out for the season.
Mark Bradley
July 13th, 2009
12:42 pm
Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t Drew Brees start at quarterback for New Orleans?
JJB
July 13th, 2009
12:57 pm
DJ Shockley was the best QB on the team? haha! Lets be honest if we are going to delve in the racial gutter. There are plenty of black players on the Falcons. Plenty of tough, opinionated people. If they thought that DJ has been getting the shaft, wouldn’t you think that they would have been saying something and be vocal? If there was truly this great racial conspiracy to keep DJ down, would all of the black players on the Falcons lay down or be patsies? Naw, you will see DJ get plenty of reps this pre season. They have to figure out who they are going to cut-Redmond, Shockley, or Wilson. Whoever gets cut, there will be no gnashing of teeth with the Falcons players. This administration will pick the right one to cut. Lets see how it plays out.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
12:57 pm
You are correct Mr. Bradley and he is white contrary to Bad News belief. If DJ is so good, why didn’t the other 31 teams draft him?
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 13th, 2009
1:00 pm
My pick is Wilson will be the odd man out or practice squad.
CDawg42
July 13th, 2009
1:04 pm
Well said on the Vick thing, dwayne…
dwayne
July 13th, 2009
1:06 pm
DJ WAS BETTER THAN GREENE TOO….(sarcasm dripping off my comment)DJ is a professional, a team player.
dna
July 13th, 2009
1:11 pm
It is about time the AJC started covering the Falcons in more depth. MB nice job. N must be a woman. Now if we can just get more insight into the shemes and personel they are trying to run. Weiner is the one who might be missed the most.
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
1:13 pm
Looks like the “true” face of the franchise is now receiving favorable recognition now that owners are realizing if we don’t sign him, our rivals might……..
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9800798/Vick-could-play-key-role-for-interested-NFL-team
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
1:23 pm
It’s obvious that you guys are concerned about protecting “the last” position in the NFL and change the subject about the original question:
Please explain to me if DJ was not a threat, why the “great” coach (as you guys claim) would make a statement saying each of the 4 qbs on the roster at the time would get a start in each of the 4 pre season games last year. Even Joey Harrington got a start.
Why not DJ? The 3 white qbs got a shot. Did the “great” coach lie? Was he afraid of a qb debate?
Now the other question:
If Matty Ice (lame name) was this great savior of the terrible Mike Vick at quarterback, why did it take the corporate sponsors, last season to bail out the “black outs” buy purchasing the tickets at the last moment?
Why can’t the “new face” sell tickets? Anybody?
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
1:30 pm
Let who ever wants Vick get him. The real fans in Atlanta don’t give a flying floozie fart about it anyway. Vick was figured out before he decided to be a complete idiot for doing what he did. Vick hasn’t been any kind of threat in the NFL since 2004.
Bring him to the NFC south we could use a fumbling idiot in our division. BWAA! HA! HA!
DJ Shockley fan
July 13th, 2009
1:31 pm
Why is it that all of the Vick Supporters commenting in offensive, racist tones, while complaining about racism? When you act like trash you should be treated like trash. All racists are trash, and that includes supporters of Mike Vick. And leave my man D J out of it. There is no way he would stoop to your level, or back-stab the team like Vick did. He has one thing Vick never has shown to the Atlanta sports public…. CLASS.
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
1:43 pm
If Vick was figured out by 2004 – how did he manage to make the pro bowl in 2005? Genuise.
Speaking of being figured out – last 4 games of season. Who owns these numbers?
2 – touch downs
4 – interceptions
3 – fumbles
Lets not forget about that fabulous 2-interceptions & 1-safety in the playoffs.
A safety in the playoffs? Are you kidding me? That’s the biggest choke ever.
I guess he was figured out in just 12 games
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
1:44 pm
Still waiting on the answers to why DJ never got a start in the pre season.
Still waiting on the answer why Matty Ice can’t sell tickets…..
I’ll wait
Dealing with Reality
July 13th, 2009
1:48 pm
Good morning to Bad News. I see you’re spreading your hate and misinformation on THIS blog today. You are delusional. I hope one day you will look beyond your IMAGINATION and DEAL WITH REALITY. You are wrong, wrong, wrong. Why should Mr. Vick be responsible for his criminal activity? And why is your animosity aimed at Blank, the team and the fans when Vick’s abscence was caused by the investigation by the FBI, his 5 year involvement in a known criminal act, subsequent lying to the FBI, lying to Mr. Blank (who at the time was in full support mode and told the press he believed Vick’s every word), lying to commissioner Goodell, and lying to the public at large (YOU, HE LIED TO YOU!!)? Mr. Vick’s current absence was caused by himself (no one else) and was executed by public law enforcement agencies. The Falcons, Mr. Blank and least of all the fans, had absolutely nothing to do with it. They were all victims nursing the broken hearts that Vick left them with. I’m a former Vick fan who is dealing with reality. You should, too.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
1:50 pm
Why was DJ the only QB not to get a start in pre-season? Because he sucks!!! DUH!!
D J Shockley fan
July 13th, 2009
1:58 pm
Correction- not all Mike Vick fans are racist. Just the ones who have commented on this blog so far and those who agree with them. The proof would be your vocalized feelings for Matt Ryan. That’s unfounded and undeserved hatred, and the result of a pathetic racist point of view. If you respect D J, be like him and show a little support for Ryan.
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
2:07 pm
Joe Flacco – rookie in 2008
Matt Ryan – rookie in 2008
Joe Flacco – won 2 playoff wins
Matt Ryan – zero playoff wins
Joe Flacco – White
Matt Ryan – White
Is that a racist comparison
Matty Ice sucks
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
2:15 pm
What kind of record did your beloved Vick leave this team in 2005-2006?
ENOUGH SAID!!
I was a Vick fan. I defended him to the bitter end.
All you can hold onto is Vick was a PRO-BOWL QB!! HA! HA! HA!
JJB
July 13th, 2009
2:21 pm
The reality of Atlanta versus other cities is that this city has many transplants- There are many more fans of other teams than in most cities. Be that as it may, once a tradition of winning is established here, it will translate into attendance at games. I remember the years of NO being the “aints” and having plenty of vacant seats and fans with bags on their heads. VS2/Bad News is a 15 year old pimply faced white kid in his mom’s basement with a computer and an attitude. yawn…
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
2:32 pm
2002 – 2006 All seats sold out. End of conversation
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
2:35 pm
Based on Mr. Bradley’s article and around the sports medias, the Falcons are superbowl contenders.
If they don’t win the superbowl, that can only mean the quarterback is responsible – right?
No more excuses – Vick was blamed for 2005-2006.
Go Falcons
T-Pain
July 13th, 2009
2:36 pm
Blank you ruined this franchise the moment you turned your back on Mike Vick when he needed you most. After all he done for you! Shameful!
JJB
July 13th, 2009
2:41 pm
There is no dispute that MV energized the black fan base of the Falcons. Unfortunately a sold out dome did not deliver consistently good play from the Falcons, or from Vick. I am not sure why there would be anger with the Falcons over not having Vick on the team. He put himself in neverland and club fed when his buddies rolled over on him to the feds. I am not sure how that should translate into anger over the team. The team has always been about more than one person, regardless if a substantial amount of people bought tickets to see only one person. And how is Matt Ryan involved in this at all? The hatred of him can only be racially motivated as what other cause do you have to hate?
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
2:43 pm
Bad News…..HA HA HA!!! That’s all you got. 2002-2006 sold out. BWAA HA HA!!!
Mike Vick has wet dreams about being the kind of QB Matt Ryan is.
Bad News
July 13th, 2009
2:44 pm
http://www.atlantafalcons.com/News/Articles/2009/01/Wild_Card/Falcons_Cardinals_Game_Story.aspx
Get used to it – What a B U S T !
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
2:57 pm
Come on Bad News you can do better than the Cards game highlites. Come you jerk do it.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
2:57 pm
It’s true Joe Flacco is the only rookie qb to win 2 playoff games.
It’s true Joe Flacco was signed for 42 million less than Ryan.
It’s true Joe Flacco won without pro bowl wr & rb.
It’s true Joe Flacco didn’t choke in playoffs.
It’s true Joe Flacco runs faster than a snail.
It’s true Joe Flacco throws further than 40 yards.
Call me stupid, because facts lie. The Falcons suck!
The GM is overrated.
The coach is an idiot.
Matt Ryan is love!
VICK SUPPORTER 2
July 13th, 2009
3:08 pm
I’M SO SICK AND TIRED OF HAVING TO CREATE MV7 ON EVERY SINGLE MADDEN GAME THAT COMES OUT!!
YOU KNOW HOW I DO IT THOUGH……….
50 FOR AWARENESS AND THEN NOTHING BUT 99′S ACROSS THE BOARD
Zoomie
July 13th, 2009
3:12 pm
That 11-5 projection is pretty rosy. I don’t think they’ll pull it off. I got ‘em going 9-7 with a very bad stretch between Dallas and the NY Giants.
Still, 9-7 would be a winning season, would break the curse, and would provide a lot of hope for the 2010-2011 season.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
3:20 pm
Took you long enough to use my blog name Bad News!! HA! HA! HA! HA!
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
3:21 pm
Madden………..thats as close as Vick will get to the NFL again.
Morehouse 4 Life
July 13th, 2009
4:12 pm
I bet that Sarah Palin framed Mike Vick and ran over Michael Jackson with a snowmobile.
N
July 13th, 2009
4:17 pm
@ DNA. “It is about time the AJC started covering the Falcons in more depth. MB nice job. N must be a woman. Now if we can just get more insight into the shemes and personel they are trying to run.”
It’s pretty clear that what you requested is exactly what I was asking for; “more insight” … you know, instead of rehashed aggregation. Congratulations DNA, you just changed genders. And… speaking of, why would wanting better coverage that takes advantage of the AJC’s position make me a woman? And why is that stated as a bad thing? So what if I am a woman? That means I can’t have an opinion on the Falcons or the direction of this blog? Several active posters would likely disagree on that point.
FMV
July 13th, 2009
4:23 pm
Finally some voices of reason about Vick. He was run out of town and his replacement is barely worthy of holding his jock and no one else can see it.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
4:49 pm
Matt
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 13th, 2009
5:05 pm
“FMV” – You are absolutely right! I only support Matty Ice because I can run a 4.3 in the 40 & I hate that Vick for being the last Falcon qb to make it to the pro bowl & championship game.
I hate those fast guys. Damn you Vick!
Matty Ice please win a playoff game this year – Pretty please.
I love you Matty Ice!
Ticket Operator
July 13th, 2009
5:13 pm
Due to the failed P.R. program “New Face” of the franchise, we are offering free tickets to avoid any pending black outs. Also, if you purchase tickets we will be giving away free number 2 jerseys.
Our new pledge is in an effort to reach box office success that we enjoyed during the 2002 – 2006 seasons and also, limit the amount of number 2 jerseys being used for floor mats.
Go Falcons!
Dealing with Reality
July 13th, 2009
5:17 pm
Bad news, answer to your question… a resounding yes. It does make you racist. Were Flacco in Atlanta and had success, you would making your racist remarks towards him. I mean seriously, every other european descent qb you’ve mentioned, you’ve trashed. The only qb of european descent that you speak highly of is Ryans counterpart successful rookie qb Flacco. I think they both did a great job last year, and think they are both very talented. My support goes to my team though, because I don’t have racist feelings against our home team QB like you do. How stupid do you think everyone is? No current Michael Vick excuse-maker ever has or ever will give a D*MN about Flacco. They will use him, but they won’t give a d*mn about him. I invite you once again to Deal with Reality and get out of your fantasy world. I understand you supporting Vick. But trashing Ryan for no reason but to be a racist baby who hasn’t gotten his way… that makes you the bad guy. If you don’t want to be the bad guy, then Deal with Reality.
Birdfan
July 13th, 2009
5:18 pm
N
This is a football blog, no one is interested in your snippy comments.
You need to get a life.
FMV
Didn’t think it was possible, but you are more clueless than Vick.
Ticket Operator
July 13th, 2009
5:38 pm
Operators are standing by…….
Hello………..
Hello………..
Anybody there………….
Another black out pending………..
Go Falcons!
N
July 13th, 2009
7:04 pm
Birdfan – It is a football blog. But more often than not, it has operated like an RSS feed as of late.
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
8:03 pm
Hey doo mauh mauh maunz impersonator…..we no longer need a one trick fast pony in Atlanta who was figured out and after that was no longer effective.
We now have a true QB who will lead the team to many repeated playoff apperances and a superbowl win.
Matt proved from his vry 1st pass in the NFL that he is heads and sholders above Mike “oh a can run fast” Vick.
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
8:08 pm
But Mikey can wun vewy fast. We should weally brwing him back.
HA HA HA HA!! He can even run to the mailbox without his ankle bracelett going off!
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
8:10 pm
Mike welcome to the looser league…………..the UFL.
jb4falcons
July 13th, 2009
8:14 pm
Bad News,,,Why do people like you always pull out the racist card? Why? Think about what you are saying…What you are doing? Let’s take another look at this. The overall majority of Falcon starters are black. Outside of QB, the entire backfield is black. All starting receivers are black. The entire starting defensive line is black, the entire starting linebackers are black, the entire starting defensive backfield is black, the Assistant Head Coach is black. The Falcons are not racist, true Falcon fans are not racist. I am happy with my Falcon starters and trust that the GM and Head Coach are placing the best players at all positions no matter what color the skin. You can bet that Ryan is their choice not by his skin color but by his playing and leadership ability. Take your racial comments elsewhere,
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
9:28 pm
My Man Matty Ice “Dream List”
- Be elected to pro bowl
- Win a playoff game
- Make it to the championship game
- Get my picture on the bill board
- Sell out the dome without corporate sponsors
- Sell 1/4 as many number 2 jerseys as number 7
Oh Santa – please oh please.
Free Mike Vick
July 13th, 2009
9:33 pm
Mike Vick.
Atlien
July 13th, 2009
9:40 pm
As long as the falcons win it shouldnt matter who’s QB….on with some team talk or something…bout time to get over it…I have…
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
10:12 pm
BWAA HA HA!!! If I were you Vick fans I would be pissed that when Vick got his 130 million, he shoved in your face and gave you the finger.
He could careless who you are and how much you loved his sorry excuss as a QB.
Like I’ve said 100 or times. I’m a Falcons fan and if Matt don’t do the job then get another QB.
It’s about the team and wis, not a single player.
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
10:15 pm
BWAAA HA HA!!
it's me again
July 13th, 2009
10:16 pm
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
MATT RYAN
Mike Vick
July 13th, 2009
11:09 pm
For the record, that finger was for “YOU” people – here is another
Big Bad Bird
July 14th, 2009
4:54 am
Hey jb4falcons I admire you sounds like a real football fan. Now this guy FMV is a Dumb @$$ bigot and needs to keep it 100 Matt is the man if Vick was playing we might have been our typical 7-9 or 6-10 selves last year. Chi. game would have been lost MV never would have made that pass maybe a 15yd scramble fans screaming to be silenced by a lost fumble for caring the ball like loaf of stale bread. Come on cuz get a grip. Its over in Atl. for MV
Falcon57
July 14th, 2009
7:52 am
Calvin and FMV. Get over it. And FMV, if Vick was the greatest player Atlanta has ever seen, why hasn’t any of the other 31 NFL teams tried to sign him??????????? And the notion that the NFL “let” the Falcons win with Matt Ryan is absolutely the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.
Other than that, go spend some time in English class and learn how to spell and write a intelligent sentence!!!
jerry
July 14th, 2009
7:52 am
Don’t respond to Vick baiters. Don’t be a dumb f–k.
FMV
July 14th, 2009
9:00 am
The reason no other team has sighed Mike Vick is because the man won’t let him play. The idea of an athletic QB in the NFL disturbed the good ol boys, so they fought back. The result is one of the greatest to ver play the game, will not be allowed to play the game. I’m surprised Spike Lee wont do a movie about it.
it's me again
July 14th, 2009
11:19 am
11-5 (regular season)…. 1 & done (playoffs)
What do we do for an encore?
Joe Flacco
July 14th, 2009
11:30 am
Hey Falcon fans. Did you see NFL Live on ESPN yesterday? They listed me as the most impressive quarterback for 2009 season.
They were complimenting me on me big, strong accurate arm. They said I have the big play arm – but guess what?
I didn’t see Matty Ice on the show – why not?
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 14th, 2009
1:44 pm
Joe are you still crying that you didn’t win the R.O.Y?
VICK SUPPORTER 2
July 14th, 2009
2:31 pm
PLEASE GOD, FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS GOOD ON YOUR GREEN EARTH WILL SOMEONE PLEASE SIGN THE GREATEST QB OF ALL TIME.
HE DOESN’T HAVE A JOB……….NO JOB!!
I TRIED TO PLAY MADDEN WITH MATTY ICE BUT APPARENTLY I CAN’T READ DEFENSES EITHER.
I NEED THEM WHEELS YO!!
OTHERWISE IT’S JUST ANONTER CHAMPIONSHIP GAME “APPEARANCE ONLY”
Matty Ice
July 14th, 2009
3:00 pm
I was watching The NFL Network and that guy Marshall Faulk, yes that future hall of famer, was saying that I will struggle in 2009.
How can I possibly struggle more than I did against the Cardinals in the playoffs? It’s not like I can lose 2 playoff games in 1 season.
I hate all this math. Nobody said I had to think. They said all I had to do was hand the ball off to Mike Turner and look smart. Dammit!
mike
July 14th, 2009
3:23 pm
i guess herpes is racist too since it only chose to hang out with one of the afforementioned qb’s
Dealing with Reality
July 14th, 2009
5:01 pm
OK, now all we have is a bunch of 3rd graders in here. I’m gonna go eat at the adults table. Geez!
VICK SUPPORTER 2
July 14th, 2009
5:30 pm
I WAS WATCHING YOU TUBE AND THE 2008 NFL HIGHLIGHTS……….
NO MV7
SO I TRIED WATCHING THE 2007 NFL HIGHLIGHTS……….
NO MV7
HOW CAN THE GREATEST QB EVER HAVE NO HIGHLIGHTS, NO SUPER BOWL RINGS, NO MVP AWARDS, NO R.O.Y. AWARD, NO ENDORSMENTS, AND NO CONTRACT?
AND I BET HE STILL RUNS REAL REAL FAST……….BUT NOBODY WANTS HIM
Ray Lewis
July 14th, 2009
9:18 pm
You’re welcome Joe.
Trey
July 14th, 2009
10:07 pm
Chauncey Davis is that guy! He will show up big time for the Falcons. This whole article was just stupid…The AJC needs to send a copy of there notes to these guys…1-15 come on! No credit as a news source.
Dave
July 15th, 2009
8:39 am
I wouldn’t be surprised by 11-5, 5-11, or anything in-between. The team could actually improve overall and finish with a significantly worse record. I do think they’ll be in every game, though, and it should be an exciting season.
doo mauh mauh maunz
July 15th, 2009
10:28 am
Who farted?
VICK SUPPORTER 2
July 15th, 2009
11:06 am
THAT WOULD BE ME……….SORRY
Dealing with Reality
July 15th, 2009
4:17 pm
Enter your comments here
opelikaoutlaw
July 15th, 2009
11:01 pm
For everyone hating on Matt Ryan- How many rookie of the year votes did Flacco get? Less than Chris Johnson. By Matt Ryan’s 3rd year he will be as good as Peyton, and better than Brady. Brady sucks anyway, he’s just lucky enough to be on a great team. They even made Matt Cassell look good last year. Sorry Chiefs you just wasted $62 million.
IDC
July 16th, 2009
9:51 am
Mark, please monitor the blogs you post. This blog has nothing to do with Falcon football but ridiculous back and forths about someone who no longer has anything to do with the Falcons. Please shut it down now!!
Mark Bradley
July 16th, 2009
11:13 am
I’m monitoring the posts and the comments, IDC. And our policy at AJC.com is to shut something down only if it gets objectionable. I don’t see anything that meets that description above. But thanks for asking.
$7.19 @ Wal-Mart
July 18th, 2009
5:09 pm
You can get all those pre-season magaazines at Wal-Mart for 10% off Mark.
GO FALCONS!
mobetter
July 20th, 2009
11:36 am
alll i see no winning season. Can’t do it no def . lets seee what the the staff, will do b4 this year last yr 1-15 who is matt ice no off line can he last a hole season the burner genural manger td mike smith what? yes this makes no sence . just as we all say in this blog lets wait and see the season.we might have a def yor pick this which will be btoback.
Live from the Dome, where consolation is available | Mark Bradley
December 27th, 2009
12:07 pm
[...] many of you, I fully expected this season to extend into the second week of January. (Sporting News had the Falcons playing in for the NFC championship.) I have to say I’m disappointed, but I’m not massively surprised. By October it was [...]