Michael Vick on “60 Minutes”: Contrition and a confession
I’m sure “60 Minutes” wasn’t thrilled with Michael Vick pre-empting himself and holding an introductory briefing two days before his taped interview with James Brown was scheduled to air. But the press conference in Philadelphia was a press conference, which serves a different purpose than the sitdown interview. And Vick was impressive in former, even more so in the latter.
I watched the interview in the press lounge at Turner Field, and there were the usual “Yeah, rights,” from a few of the skeptics behind me. But I felt no skepticism. I felt I was watching a humbled man admit to having been a fool and an ingrate and an all-around bad buy.
And let me ask this: When last did you own up to so many sins and failings? In the confessional box? Ever? And when last did you do it before an audience of millions?
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it now: I’ve always liked the guy, and I felt almost personally disappointed when I read the indictment against him. I can only imagine how Arthur Blank felt, and that to me was the heart of Vick’s “60 Minutes” appearance — the self-disgust he felt at having let Blank down.
Loading ...Vick: “I can’t, you know, describe the feeling. You know, the hurt deep inside, hurt that I never felt before, knowing that I disappointed him, knowing that he’d given me every opportunity to come to him and reach out whenever I needed him. And he cared about me and I took it all for granted.”
It’s one thing to say, “Oh, I let my fans down.” It’s altogether different to put a human face on that failure. That Vick seems to realize what he did to the man who trusted him most gives me hope, not for the first time, that Michael Vick is indeed a changed and wiser man.
I know, I know. There are those among who will take the “Yeah, right” route, who will believe Vick’s only remorse is over having been caught. I believe otherwise. I believe he means what he says, and on “60 Minutes” he said exactly what he needed to say. And he said it well.
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225 comments Add your comment
Just An Observation
August 16th, 2009
8:17 pm
Hopefully all those Vick supporters that have blamed the Falcons’ organization for his downward spiral can stop the madness now that Vick set the record straight on 60 minutes. HE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR HIS OWN ACTIONS AND THE LIES HE TOLD AND CONTINUED TO TELL IN AN EFFORT NOT TO GET INTO TROUBLE!!!!
Bat Masterson
August 16th, 2009
8:21 pm
Time will tell. I was disgusted by everything that happened and for some reason felt cheated out of the chance to see what he could do in the runaway coach’s offense. Water under the bridge now, I hope he has grow and does well, he can still become a good example.
MightyQuinn
August 16th, 2009
8:24 pm
Maybe he needed to cry on TV to get everyone to believe he is truly sorry and repentant. Should have gotten Barbara Walters to interview him.
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
8:27 pm
I have to say, Quinn, I wondered if there would be a tear or two during the interview. But there weren’t.
hernia
August 16th, 2009
8:29 pm
jason heyward reminds me of a younger mark bradley
Whopper Dawg
August 16th, 2009
8:34 pm
Mark, I am not a Vick fan as you know if you have read my posts. He said the right things and maybe he realizes that he has been given a second chance that not many people receive. I hope he is sincere, time will tell.
james
August 16th, 2009
8:34 pm
Just An Observation how does it feel to be perfect. He admitted to his wrong doing and to hear u say he is still tell lies is a disgrace. I going to take an educated guess that u are white!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marcus
August 16th, 2009
8:35 pm
Ditto Bat Masterson
Zip
August 16th, 2009
8:41 pm
Some say Vick’s love of dog fighting (and killing) is a result of the culture he was raised in. We don’t seem to give dogs that bite people the same benefit of the doubt—we just euthanize them. Vick is only as sorry as he needs to be to get back in the NFL and sign a fat contract. I think a dog would be more sincere.
Bill in VA
August 16th, 2009
8:41 pm
He said what he said because it had to be said, not because it was true. Never believe a liar!!
BIOMASS
August 16th, 2009
8:42 pm
Anyone that buys into the “I found Jesus in jail/prison” is an idiot.
Vick looks like a well-coached client wanting to jump through whatever hoops it takes to get him what he wants. The guy is a sociopath, and nobody is going to change that.
And please, enough with the Tony Dungy angle. Maybe someone should give HIM a few parenting skills, as his own son killed himself.
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
8:43 pm
Let he who has never lied cast the first stone.
Stevengilley15
August 16th, 2009
8:43 pm
I feel if he don’t say anything people will say he is not remorseful and when he does speak, you hear skepticism. He will never be able to please everyone but he repented to GOD, he apologized to his fans and animal lovers. He is going above and beyond to do his part in ridding dogfighting and discouraging it within the youth. He doing his part, so kudos to Vick. But It was a good interview. I feel it could have been longer and that they should have dedicated the entire show to Vick because I turned the channel soon after
Reid Adair
August 16th, 2009
8:43 pm
I’ll go a step farther, Mark. I don’t think he was saying what he felt he “needed to say.” I thought he was speaking from the heart.
Like yourself, I was impressed to hear his comments about letting Arthur Blank down. Blank put his heart and soul (not to mention his money) into the former #7, and that is how he was re-paid.
I understand Blank has visited his former quarterback since his release. Hopefully both of them can move on now.
Martin Calloway
August 16th, 2009
8:44 pm
Agree with you Mark.
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
8:46 pm
Let’s see: When was the last time I was offered millions of dollars a year to play football? Don’t dare compare the Vick situation to mine or any other of your customers situations. He knew that eventually he would have to apologize in public for his transgressions in order to play in the NFL again and once more be a highly-paid and famous athlete. If you knew anything about the criminal mind you would know that lying convincingly is second nature because they have convinced themselves that they are “good” people and all means are justified by the ends.
Reid Adair
August 16th, 2009
8:50 pm
“Let he who has never lied cast the first stone.”
Amen, Mark. Folks will say all sorts outrageous things while hiding behind some made-up nickname on the internet. The sad part is the ones who really believe the junk they post.
Herschel Talker
August 16th, 2009
8:51 pm
“Let he who has never lied cast the first stone.”
MB – for you to compare any of our lies to what Vick did is laughable. He lied to the face of his owner, an owner who gave him $100MM+, and to the face of the NFL commissioner. And in doing so, he brought down a whole franchise. Short of us bringing down our companies, there is no comparison. Considering he lied to his owner and his commissioner, this interview could be equal BS. Let’s see how his actions play out in community henceforth before anointing him a changed man.
SAB
August 16th, 2009
8:52 pm
MONSTER…….HE FEELS NO REMORSE…NONE AT ALL…MONSTER
cmerun100m
August 16th, 2009
8:53 pm
Wow! That last comment from “Biomass” was like a stake in the heart. Dungy is a well respected man and person. Vick needs someone exactly like him. Vick deserves a 2nd chance. Give it to him. We all have been given 2nd chances. Tell me you haven’t and you to can put yourself on the liar seat. I am a dog lover. Have one. I don’t condone anything that he did and still have some hurt in my heart for those dogs that suffered at his hands. Others have done much worse, but have received less punishment. Anyone heard of a guy by the name of Stallworth. Now that guy is one lucky SOB. Good thing for payoffs!
Zip
August 16th, 2009
8:53 pm
Sometimes “sorry” does not get the job done. Wayne Adam Ford said he was “sorry”. He got the death penalty. Most people don’t get the chances that people in “the spotlight” do and there are thousands of high school and college football players struggling for every roster spot. Give one of THEM the chance. Vick can learn to be a mechanic.
Herschel Talker
August 16th, 2009
8:53 pm
Reid Adair – you are a clown. Like his lies compare to our lies. We didn’t bring down a franchise. We didn’t like to bosses while behind the scenes performing killings. Let he who has never lied and thus brought down a company cast the first stone.
Reid Adair is a joke.
Falcons Obit
August 16th, 2009
8:54 pm
This sense of entitlment that Vick owes personal apologies is comical. I hope the haters collective heads caught spontaneous fire when James Brown mentioned the total value of his contract – whether he’s paid it or not, just the thought of the possibility should be enough to have them fuming and turning beet red for hours on end! LOL Oh haters, did you like Wayne Pacelle sitting there beside him, shaking his hand when he spoke in Decatur? No? Oh well, Mr. Pacelle doesnt care what you think. He’s getting paid, the community service is being done…and the justice department will not investigate where their contributions actually go.
Well haters, you wanted Mike Vick to have to go be a punt returner for the Raiders making minimum wage…..NOT! LOL
Fanboy69
August 16th, 2009
8:54 pm
BIOMASS you are scummy
Herschel Talker
August 16th, 2009
8:56 pm
Fanboy69 likes men
BIOMASS
August 16th, 2009
8:56 pm
What are you Bradley? A Sunday school teacher? It boils down to first stone bs? How about the “lest tho be judged” one? So someone murders your mother, and you sit on your hands because, “gee willikers, I can’t judge anyone.”
Fred
August 16th, 2009
8:57 pm
Zip, maybe you missed the last 72 hours but no, Mike Vick will not go be a mechanic…he will be the backup QB for the Eagles for a season, making the full $1.625 million and then the Eagles will be swarmed with offers of buckets of draft picks and Vick will be making $5 to $6 mil a year with another franchise in 2010. You’ll still be mad of course, but who cares? Now go marinate on that.
Country Boy
August 16th, 2009
8:57 pm
Great comment ZIP. For some reason I was reminded of an interview with Paris Hilton when she was interviewed on TV after her very short stint in a jail. She claimed she found religion and had been reading the Bible. The interviewer asked her which Bible verse she like the most and her answer was “all of them”. Huh ???
Falcons Ticket Operator
August 16th, 2009
8:58 pm
http://www.cnbc.com/id/32418854?__source=RSS
Herschel Talker
August 16th, 2009
9:01 pm
Fred likes men
bb
August 16th, 2009
9:02 pm
Vick is truly sorry. Are dogs better than human beings? Just think about this.
Zip
August 16th, 2009
9:02 pm
Fred. You must be an Eagles fan. That explains why you can’t understand my comments very well, since they are in English. My point is taht this is not a “football” issue, it is a “human” issue. So, you might want to get back to collecting batteries to throw at McNabb when you people panic too early and sell him down the river…again. Good luck with Vick, and the hero status he will bring to the city.
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
9:04 pm
Let me ask this: Do we believe in forgiveness as a concept? Or do we pick and choose who we forgive?
Zip
August 16th, 2009
9:04 pm
bb. Dogs are not “better” than humans, they are the same. Living creatures who, unfortunately for them, have come to rely on people.
Fred
August 16th, 2009
9:05 pm
Zip, I understand that what you wrote is stupid and irrelevant. Mike Vick is still going to make bank, still gonna be in the NFL, still bout to have the hottest selling jersey of the year, wow..looks like God is a Vick fan.
Zip
August 16th, 2009
9:08 pm
There is no God. If there was, there would be no “Michael Vicks”. PS, in a fair fight between a pitbull and a “Fred”, pitbull wins. Maybe prayer would help? Cretin!
George
August 16th, 2009
9:09 pm
Mark’ You Go Boy!! I agree, Mike apologized, and said I made a poor choice of decisions. It’s not up to us to decide if he is sincere or not. Last time I checked, not one of the were Signed, GOD….
Let it go ALREADY……
BIOMASS
August 16th, 2009
9:09 pm
Bradley, read Leviticus and get back to me.
Herschel Talker
August 16th, 2009
9:10 pm
MB – we do believe in forgiveness. But how can you believe a 60 minutes interview when he lied to his owner and his commissioner? His words have lost the benefit of the doubt. His actions will speak louder than words. If he is truly a changed man, and if his actions in the community show as much, then all will be forgiven. My issue (and that of many others) is that this man’s word means nothing because of his past. Only his actions will prove his contrition, and for you to suggest that this 60 Minutes interview will suffice seems to be quite naive. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.
Fred
August 16th, 2009
9:12 pm
Mark, what exactly is the point? Did Mike Vick not do what the judicial system required of him? This whole “forgiveness” concept reeks of people feeling the need to be self-important, believing they are entitled to being ASKED for forgiveness. Bump that. Mike Vick did what was required, period. Who the hell cares if some holier-than-thou numbnuts aren’t happy about it? Whatever. Last I checked, that jersey was flying off the shelves in Philly and single game tickets for Philly’s remaining preseason games had tripled in sales. Vick doesn’t need these idiots forgiveness..these idiots just have a need to WANT him too. Please…they can kick rocks.
BraveCat
August 16th, 2009
9:13 pm
I am an animal lover…probably like animals more than people, well at least the ones who comment here. However, as a Christian, I feel Michael Vick should be allowed to be forgiven unless proven otherwise. How can we expect God to forgive us, when we cannot forgive another human? And maybe some of you should go to church and actually LISTEN to what God has said. Thank you, Mr. Bradley for your article. Now…………………………GOOOOOO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
drsoul
August 16th, 2009
9:15 pm
‘BIOMASS’…you are one sick puppy, cupcake…!!!! those who have to resort to judging are hiding behind a lot of sins and issues.. and, trying to transfer those to others … by your own statements, I sincerely hope that you are not a parent…!!!!
Zip
August 16th, 2009
9:16 pm
This raft has just gone off of “Stupid Falls”. Money will make it all better. If you have it, you must be correct. Mins the rocks at the bottom–they hay no conscious thought and if they cave in your fool head…well…they really didn’y mean to do it. Unlike Vick. Enjoy your new jersey, but don’t forget to feed you dog.
drsoul
August 16th, 2009
9:18 pm
Forgiveness is a manner of understanding, support and faith in one finding their own self within; strong enough to overcome any weakness that they have fallen to within themselves… forgiveness is the ability to detach yourself from the issue itself, but be there to support and cheer the repentance and rebirth of a new direction…
Greg
August 16th, 2009
9:19 pm
Mark, “When last did you own up to so many sins and failings?” Umm…never, but then again I have never had the sociopathic personality traits that seem to be exclusive to serial killers and over hyped NFL players.
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
9:22 pm
If I hear Michael Vick lumped with serial killers one more time, I might not be responsible for my actions. I mean, come on.
tpm
August 16th, 2009
9:23 pm
All you need to know about Michael Vick is he executed dogs that did not perform well and admitted that he did not train well himself in the nfl.
904boy
August 16th, 2009
9:24 pm
What is with people with all this negative attitude towards this Michael Vick. GIVE IT A F@#KIN REST. The man did his time for really nothing because he wasnt the one fightin the dam dogs, he didnt even fund it he just happen to buy his cousin a house who did the dumb stuff and didnt get punished they just wanted the man with all the money and fame. He went to prison and didnt tell on anyone. LET HIM LIVE HIS LIFE. I think hes a great person. He has lost soooo much and yet and still wants to play the game he loves so much. Remember what i said Vick is going to do very well this year.
Brad in Jasper
August 16th, 2009
9:26 pm
Mark, did I read you correctly earlier when you said not another word from you about ‘you know who’?
Greg
August 16th, 2009
9:27 pm
Really? He had to kill those dogs that way because he was a humanitarian? He got no joy or laughs out of it? Really? You are smarter than that. Come on.
Jeremiah
August 16th, 2009
9:27 pm
Good article MB…I agree, I always liked Vick, and despite his mistakes I think that he is a good person deep down inside. I love dogs and abhor what he did, but I think he is truly sorry and regretful, remorseful, etc., and this and his obvious desire to be a better man, is enough for me to forgive him. I think he deserves a chance to turn this into an opportunity to become a great person. Time will tell.
The Grinch
August 16th, 2009
9:27 pm
I love dogs, am not a Christian, and am pissed Mike Vick ruined my favorite franchise. However, he did his time, lost an absurd amount of money, and deserves a chance to start over somewhere else. Good luck to you, bro. And from the ashes he left the Falcons in rose a solid team one can finally be proud of. Good times are ahead for all.
Jeremiah
August 16th, 2009
9:28 pm
Yeah, Serial Killers? Come on, that’s ridiculous!
Jackie
August 16th, 2009
9:28 pm
Mark, I agree…..I hope these Gods featured in your post never do anything wrong in their lives and have to live under scrunity or the radar as Michael Vick. The dude was wrong with the whole dog fighting fiasco; however, some of these respondents are living double lives righ now, just like Vick once did and we will never know of their shortcomings cause they won’t own up to them. They will just point their fingers like they do now. Get over it haters, suffering is not supposed to last for a lifetime.
Brad in Jasper
August 16th, 2009
9:28 pm
“In this post” – Sorry, Mark. I should’ve re-read it first.
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
9:30 pm
That was during yesterday’s live Falcons chat, Brad. It would be tough never to mention his name again and write about sports in this town. Especially on Dec. 6.
Vick Supporter
August 16th, 2009
9:34 pm
Just saw the interview from Japan….had to watch it on a Monday instead of Sunday. I believe Vick was totally sincere…I was glad to see that he laid it all out there. Now all he has to do is be involved in the community and play football. I have to admit, I remember alot of people saying that Vick didn’t work as hard as he should have and he admitted that he didn’t do that. I could never believe it from the scumbags that say it on here, but looks like it was true. I can say this…that won’t happen again..This guy lifted an entire franchise and put a team on the map without even trying I guess according to him…pretty amazing…the best athlete we’ve ever had in this town and wasn’t working as hard as he should have. The new Vick is going to tear this league up like its never been done…and he actually has a franchise thats great from top to bottom and he has a great coach. Personally, i think things went downhill after Dan Reeves was unfairly fired…hard to stay notivated with Mora Jr as your coach I would think. He never held ANYONE accountable on that team at the time. Vick was young and dumb and had the entire franchise kissing his ass….straight up. I like that Vick accepted the blame for that….which is something he didn’t do all of the time when he was here. I’m glad to see that he back in the NFL where he belongs. and I still say…
The Great Mike Vick Has Returned.
He’s still my Quarterback. He’s still the face of the Falcons
Vick 09
tonia
August 16th, 2009
9:35 pm
zip you should be thankful God is forgiving for you saying there”s no God i get a kick out of people in the world that have no compassion for others one strike and your out just think if God was like that we wouldnt be here so next time you do something wrong think about how quick you judged vick and anyone one else you may have judge and tell yourself you are still better then them.
Lynda
August 16th, 2009
9:36 pm
I watched this interview and Michael Vick had 1 big smirk.. I don’t care how good he is heis disgusting. And as he said when asked about the length of time off the field he stated that 2 years isn’t that long. Hm if he really was sorry for his disgusting actions 2 years would seem like a lifetime. He makes me sick. and Tony Dungy wonder if he would be as willing to help my 27 year old, white son with the same level of opportunity? Doubtful..
YaYa
August 16th, 2009
9:41 pm
Very well said FRED!!!!
dl
August 16th, 2009
9:42 pm
What pissed me off about the interview, was his admission of being first to leave and last to arrive (at team activities) and that he was lazy. He totally spit in the face of his fans and the city. For that I hope he fails as an eagle or any other team. Yes everyone deserves a second chance, after all this is the USA, however although I forgive him and YES he paid for his crime. I cannot forget and just as I supported him (buying a jersey, football cards and an autograph picture) I now choose to boo him and hope he fails on the football field. Somehow I feel karma will pay him a visit, after all when we do bad, somehow it comes back to us ten fold.
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
9:43 pm
Second chance? As I posted previously, Vick has had at least seven chances to examine his life and change. He did not until he was caught and sent to prison. Once again, Pete Rose, who had a Hall of Fame career, was banned from baseball FOR LIFE for gambling. Surely Vick, Stallworth and Buress should have been banned for life for their crimes.
Famuan
August 16th, 2009
9:44 pm
Oh listen up! Lynda’s 27 year old WHITE son (as she so kindly pointed out) needs help…quick…somebody call Dany Heatley!
BraveCat
August 16th, 2009
9:45 pm
Tonia,
exactly!!! When Vick said cops “stopped by and saw it was a dog fight and got back in their cars, I didn’t think anything was wrong with it”……..a lot of people are not blessed with growing up thinking a dog/cat/horse is a product of God and think they are a lesser being than humans. I am sick of humans thinking “oh it is just a dog/stupid cat/ etc.” EVERY LIVING CREATURE ON THIS EARTH IS A PRODUCT OF GOD. Get over yourselves to anyone who has not made a mistake. Give VICK A CHANCE !!!!!!!!!
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
9:46 pm
Would you rather have heard Vick say he hadn’t seen the error of his ways?
Famuan
August 16th, 2009
9:47 pm
Ed the crimes committed by Vick, Stallworth and Burress were not directly related to the NFL. Pete Rose was actually betting on MLB games…HIS GAMES. What part of that do you not understand?
The Grinch
August 16th, 2009
9:48 pm
Tonia, you don’t have to believe in the father, son and holy ghost (explain how that works to me again?) to know the difference between right and wrong. I know when I’ve done wrong, I know how to have positive relationships with others and I’m capable of forgiveness. Those traits are inherent in any well adjusted human being. If you desire to consult a book cobbled together by a random group of Jews and Romans 400 years after Jesus died to tell you how to act, that’s your business and it doesn’t bother me. But trusting life advice from parents and respected elders and learning from your own mistakes are a perfectly acceptable way to live life as well.
I probably just started a #$@%-storm, didn’t I? Oops. I had good intentions.
Fred
August 16th, 2009
9:49 pm
Mark Bradley, what part of this do you not understand? These same idiots have been screeching and bashing Mike Vick since he got drafted. Why are you acting all brand new like you don’t understand this? They have hated the man long before 2007…and you know it. Stop the blog theatrics, you know what’s up. You know what the deal is, you know what their ANGST is all about.
meb
August 16th, 2009
9:50 pm
BIOMASS. Ummm dont go down a road that you are ill-prepared to travel. Don’t start binging the Bible into this discussion unless you are fully prepared.
I’m with Mark Bradley on this. Forgiveness is what is missing in our society. Those who are sooo bitter toward Vick have some deep rooted personal issues that have not been resovled. These type of people lives are empty unless they have someone to hate. As if their lives are models for people to follow. Whoever copared the killing of a dog to the killing of somone’s mother is really a nutjob.
And Yes, Mike’s lie had bigger consequences for HIM, not you as a fan. The franchise was already in turmoil with the likes of Deangelo Hall, Coach Mora and Coach Petino. The franchise was not brought down by Mike Vick. The franchise is doing pretty good. A lie is a lie. Some carry heavier consequences for the liar, but int he eyes of God, one lie is no large or smaller than another. God hates ALL lying.
Also, BIOMASS you are truly ignorant. A fatehr/mother can do their best job of raising their children, but the child may still go astray; down a path that ends in their death. This is not necessarily a reflection n the parents. So for you to make that comment about Tony Dungy (who has obviously helped more people than you)show yo know nothing about life. You are just along for the ride.
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
9:52 pm
Well, fred, he did admit that he was “lazy” on the field and in practices. He said he was the last one in the building and the first one out. Perhaps the writing was on the wall with this guy. Off the field issues aside, he never lived up to his potential on the field.
Mitch
August 16th, 2009
9:53 pm
You know, I’ve said it before, and damn it, I’m going to say it again. MV is more guilty of breaking some damn PC rules than anything else. I know Stallworth’s situation is different legally. I’m not stupid. Their cases are not the same, legally. I get that.
But why does MV have to pay with his entire income and almost two years in prision and Jamal Lewis, Ray Lewis and Donte Stallworth, in comparison, get off easy?
MV broke PC rules. He offended people’s sensibilities. Why does human drug addiction and death not get the same response as the death of dogs and gambling?
Don’t get me wrong, MV was wrong and had to pay for what he did. Perhaps, in a weird way, it was good for him because what I have seen in his humiliation is the production of a man. MV has grown up, accepted responsibility for his actions and is trying to be a husband, dad and professional athlete.
I hope he makes back all he lost and more and becomes the greatest comeback story in NFL history and all the haters eat the crow.
I’m glad we as Falcon Fans have what we have now. It’s great. But I believe MV got hammered too hard for something not as awful as others have done and received a slap on the wrist.
Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t think so.
Marianne
August 16th, 2009
9:54 pm
Who cares about Arthur Blank’s feelings? I want, just Once, for this Sociopath to MENTION the DOGS! He has never dais a word about the fact thatit is a sickness to watch the suffering of a nother living being, ALWAYS associated withe serial killers and pedophiles. I want him to talk about the animals – but he doesn’t get it at all. He he should be sent to a psych ward.
Vick Supporter
August 16th, 2009
9:54 pm
@dl
You say that you can’t wait for “karma” to come back around,lol….Going to prison, ruining your name, losing over 100 million dollars, and being the most hated man in America is what I would call “karma” coming back around. You hope that Vick fails in his return and in life, I hope YOU FAIL in life and DON”T recieve a second chance. You are a POS, man. What you said is just plain nasty. And that lady LYNDA…..you definitely need prayer in your life. You have so much hate in your heart.
Code
August 16th, 2009
9:55 pm
Michael Vick has served his time.
What bothers me is that none of us are perfect. What he did was despicable but what if everyone who is posting on this board had the curtain pulled away from them? What would we find behind that curtain? Would we find child molesters, domestic abusers, what?
Vick’s misdeeds are revealed for all of us to see but remember, thou who cast the first stone. We all have skeletons in our closet but usually those bones fall out of our closet in private – not public.
There is more hatred for Vick than Bernie Madoff who ruined generations of lives. Furthermore, some of the hatred toward Vick is related to his potential to earn a living in a very high tax bracket. If he worked in a warehouse earning $12.50 per hour, the disdain for him would be less.
Over $100 million dollars lost and two years in prison…Vick has paid a huge price, let him be.
TB
August 16th, 2009
9:57 pm
To answer your question MB, of course we choose who to forgive and who not to, that is what makes us flawed human beings with something to work on correcting. Hey, I was a Michael Vick fan as a season ticket holder for many years. I’m also glad he is gone. I was really surprised by the interview since I just watched it online. I think the biggest problem he still has his arrogance. It was not an attractive characteristic in press conferences before, and it still comes off the same way in the interview. Though the arrogance made the man an unbelievable competitor on the football field. I’m surprised to find that he really does seem remorseful to the point of sharing all his faults with the nation. The explanation of how he hurt Arthur Blank and most telling how he felt about teammates making comments about him being lazy (which he admitted to on national TV). I think he is remorseful and truthful now, but the arrogance is still there which creates doubts in some people.
George
August 16th, 2009
9:57 pm
Mark
I guess its Damn if he do, Damn if he don’t. My Mom told me a long time ago, you will never ever please everyone. Guess she was right!
Nite Owl
August 16th, 2009
9:59 pm
I used to be really upset with Vick because he let my team down. But I moved on after we hired Dimitroff and Coach Smith. It was all for the best, because it led to better management and therefore a better long-term future for the Falcons.
I don’t know if I buy Vick’s sincerity, but I do know there’s not much else you can do to punish a guy. Nearly two years in prison, a huge contract gone up in smoke, having to play for the Eagles and those classless fans now (see how shabbily they’ve treated McNabb, despite all he’s done for them)….what else do you want? Vick’s already given a pound of flesh.
So, bottom line, my response is “Yeah, right,” followed closely by, “What else is on?”
Krich77
August 16th, 2009
10:00 pm
Excellent article Mr. Bradley. I didn’t get to see the interview but have felt from day one of his prison release he has been regretful for all he has done. I am happy he is being given a second chance to play football and be a positive role model against dogfighting. What people don’t realize is that often it takes losing everything to get your life in perspective and that is what has happened to Mike Vick. The Eagles organization has earned my respect as a football franchise and are probably going to be very successful because of giving Vick a chance.
By the way to those who love to quote scriptures and tell people to go read them make sure you are living all of them before you decide to throw just one to fit your cause. That is being a hypocrite!
Love, Peace and Happiness Everyone!!
Vick Supporter
August 16th, 2009
10:00 pm
@TB
WHAT ARROGANCE?!? Thats what I hate about you people….no matter what this man does, you find something to complain about and continue to judge like you’re some perfect being. PLEASE TELL ME where you see arrogance in this interview.
Amy
August 16th, 2009
10:00 pm
To: Vick Supporter
Mike Vick will NEVER EVER be the face of the Falcons! He’s moved on and so have the Falcons! Let him be the Eagles problem now and not ours! We are focused on winning a Super Bowl!
vickless
August 16th, 2009
10:00 pm
Watch out Eagles! Not only does Vick strangle dogs, he screws birds too!
meb
August 16th, 2009
10:02 pm
Greg -
You lack the ability to reason logically. Equating Mike with a sociopathic serial-killer shows that you have no understanding of either of these terms. Just say you hate Mike Vick because you never have liked him and we will accept that. Don’t act like you have done some psycological profile of the guy because you do not have the skills or training to do so.
Fred
August 16th, 2009
10:02 pm
Marianne, please take your medication. LOL
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
10:02 pm
Famuan: There are morals and proper conduct clauses in every professional contract which preclude felonious crimes! What part of that do you not understand? My point is that all of you Vick apologizers claim he has paid his debt to society and should be reinstated. Go to jail for two years and come back to your job and try to explain to your employer that you have served your debt to society and he should hire you again. Watch as he calls security. I loved Vick when he was drafted and hoped he would be a successful QB for the Falcons for years to come. Instead, he destroyed the franchise and polarized the fans. You cannot be a Falcon fan AND a Vick fan anymore.
mullet13
August 16th, 2009
10:02 pm
When a person the caliber of Tony Dungy says Vick deserves a second chance, I can at least attempt to consider it myself. I’ve adamantly criticized Vick and called for the NFL to disallow his return. I still feel this way, but Dungy’s involvement has caused me to pause and re-evaluate. I’ve always said “the proof is in the pudding,” so we’ll see what happens moving forward.
Matt Ryan
August 16th, 2009
10:04 pm
Hey Atlanta let’s focus on me and the team that I was brought here to lead and be the quarterback!!!!!
Vick Supporter
August 16th, 2009
10:04 pm
Amy
August 16th, 2009
10:00 pm
To: Vick Supporter
Mike Vick will NEVER EVER be the face of the Falcons! He’s moved on and so have the Falcons! Let him be the Eagles problem now and not ours! We are focused on winning a Super Bowl!
————————–
Miss Amy. if you haven’t noticed, we’ve been talking about MV on here for the past 2 years. If you go ask anyone on the street when they think of one player who played for the falcons, I bet you they will say Mike Vick. I know you don’t don’t want that, but its the truth. Move on. He’s still the face without even being on the team. Deal with it
Vick 09
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
10:04 pm
And I am a Falcon fan!
Fred
August 16th, 2009
10:06 pm
chemdawg, from 2001 to 2006, the Falcons made a healthy, extremely healthy profit. The only thing you or anybody else is owed when you PAY for a ticket or buy Falcons merchandise is a GAME…that’s it, you aren’t owed anything but a GAME. You get to be entertained for a fee. We got that. Vick owes nobody in Atlanta a darn thing.
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
10:06 pm
i never said he owed me anything
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
10:08 pm
My point is simple: Those who questioned his heart were correct. This came from Vick himself. He admitted he was lazy. It doesn’t have anything to do with racism as you were implying, but that certainly is a convenient argument.
Vick Supporter
August 16th, 2009
10:08 pm
@dl
Well you do that then. To bad Vick is going to make you eat your words. Boo him all you want..who cares? I do know one thing…when he comes back on DEC 6th, it will not be all boos at the Dome..and you better hope that he isn’t playing…the falcons will surely get embarrased.
truthhurts
August 16th, 2009
10:08 pm
What I don’t understand, is the continued anger aimed solely at Mike Vick. Dog Fighting remains “legal by default” under state law in several states. I’ve yet to see articles or television programs airing protests outside state legislative sessions calling for some law to make dog fighting illegal in that state. Does PETA have organizations aimed at this? Sure, on a Federal level its illegal, but if folks truly understand how that works…wishful thinking. Vick is finished dog fighting, he went to prison, he’s now a convicted felon, what more do these folks want? What about those friends of his who ran the operation when he was suiting up for the Falcons? What about the other owners who fought against Vick’s dogs? After two years, this is too much focus on one man.
And make no mistake, hopefully the Falcons will wip up on the Eagles December 6th!!! But part of me hopes Vick does well and maybe even win a super bowl with those birds. This sort of hypocrisy is what kids see and develop the same habit.
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
10:10 pm
In other words, cut it out with the race baiting!… And those of you who choose to support Vick over the Falcons can now go to the Philadelphia blogs!
Famuan
August 16th, 2009
10:10 pm
Ed….BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! Who are you supposed to be?? You arrogant AWM’s really think you can dictate who people can support and who they can’t?? Seriously?? LMAO! You dont run this. Furthermore, people can and DO resume their careers even with felony convictions..you do know Dany Heatley has a felony record, right? Are you upset that’s he’s still playing professional hockey? Scooter Libby has a felony record, regardless of the pardon…are you suggesting he never work again? Quick! Tell that political think tank he works for that he’s a BAD MAN!! Oh yeah, I believe Michael Milken has a felony record, as does G. Gordon Liddy, Oliver North….you think they all should be jobless? Or are you reserving that special rule for Michael Vick?
meb
August 16th, 2009
10:11 pm
Marianne-
You need to be placed in a psych ward if you think that dogs carry the same weight in this world as humans. If that were the case, the humane society would not euthanize so many of these animals each year just because no one will adopt them. How many dogs or cats do you have? How many are you going to adopt this year to stop the Humane Society from killing these animals? If you are not going to adopt any, then sit down, be quiet and evaluate how you are contributing to the deaths of so many animals by not adopting them.
DJ
August 16th, 2009
10:11 pm
Mark , what is amazing is the level of ugly comments and hate directed toward Michael Vick. Where do you think this over the top, overheated, unnecessary rage comes from ?
BraveCat
August 16th, 2009
10:11 pm
TB……………………HUH?!?!?!?! Who cares?
Bert
August 16th, 2009
10:11 pm
Biomass, your comment about Dungy’s parenting skills, is inappropriate. You’re an ass.
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
10:12 pm
CODE:
“There is more hatred for Vick than Bernie Madoff who ruined generations of lives.”
How can you claim this? I don’t hear anyone anywhere defending Madoff; yet there are still plenty of people trying to defend MV!
dl
August 16th, 2009
10:13 pm
VS, you must be in Okinawa? Thanks for the service. I hope you return home and find all your loved one safe. However, I hope you return and find MV7 on IR for blowing out his ACL!
Barbara
August 16th, 2009
10:14 pm
It is just amazing that all these black people are on the front seat when it comes to forgiving Michael Vick. But where are they when it comes to forgiving white slave owners. Whoa, now! That’s talking about forgiving white folks. Now, that’s something different.
Greg
August 16th, 2009
10:17 pm
Meb,
I do not hate Michael Vick, I just think there is something fundamentally wrong with a person who tortures living things for pleasure. I addition I believe in giving people a second chance. I think those two years would have been better spent under the care of a psychologist rather than a cell so that he might be able to truly reconcile those issues in himself. I hope he was able to do that on his own, I truly do.I wish him luck but forgive me if I do harbor some doubts.
vickless
August 16th, 2009
10:19 pm
Hey Philly! Hide your beagle….Vick’s an Eagle!
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
10:21 pm
I don’t believe Dany Heatley has a felony record, by the way.
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
10:21 pm
Mark, some moderation is required!
Dee Ford
August 16th, 2009
10:24 pm
Mike Vick does not owe anyone a personal apology. No man is God.
I do look forward to Mike letting his actions in the community and with the kids do the talking. Good Luck
Nite Owl
August 16th, 2009
10:24 pm
This is more for my own sense of closure than for anyone else’s benefit, but here goes:
I don’t care if Michael Vick comes to the Dome and has 300 all-purpose yards, helps the Eagles to beat the Falcons 42-0, and does victory laps a la Jeff George.
I certainly hope that doesn’t happen, but it will mean nothing more to me than when Jeff George came back here and won. That game back then did not make me want to have Jeff George back.
It won’t mean anything more to me than if New England beats us, or the Saints beat us, or the Buccaneers beat us.
Vick does not play for my team anymore, and we’re a better franchise for years to come because of it. I’m no more worried about Vick than I am about Jeff Francoeur.
The people who love Vick and hate the Falcons are trying to make us “scared” of what Vick will do to us when he comes back. That’s the only weapon they have. Don’t take the bait.
They have been ships without a port for a couple of years now, and now they have their team. So they’re Eagles fans now. No more or less special than any other run-of-the-mill Eagles fans in this town. So who cares?
Booger
August 16th, 2009
10:26 pm
As Travis Tritt said, “Here’s a quarter, call someone who cares.”
eastbound and down
August 16th, 2009
10:26 pm
at the end of the day, it is only dogs and dogs are property. people in Ga have shot dogs that can’t point. “that dog don’t hunt.” shooting wolves from helicopters or airplanes is ok. bullfighting..cockfighting… whatever…
btw, vickless had the best post of the night. and BIOMASS is aptly named (2 : plant materials and animal waste used especially as a source of fuel) and is an idiot, to boot.
DiJo
August 16th, 2009
10:26 pm
I think Michael has done all the apologizing he needs to do; he needs to move on with his life and re-establish himself in the profession he was destined to be in. I hope he turns a deaf ear to all these perfectly sinless beings who came directly from heaven.
I applaud Mike on the fact that he acknowledged his wrong, confessed it openly and is now moving in the right direction…to me, that’s what a real man is.
What sickens me with these comentaries, is the aire of self-righteousness that comes across in their blogs. Some of these very same people steal from others, lie, and hurt their kids and yet they attempt to hold a candle to Mike Vick.
Isn’t it ironic that certain groups of people in this country eat dog meat and they not brought to justice for the “crime” they are committing. What about the cock fighting and dog fighting that is goning on right here in good ole Georgia even as we speak, who is policing that criminal behavior.
Michael Vick does not need to hang he head down to no one, because he did nothing to be ashamed of. He didn’t rob anyone, rape anyone, was not involved in the distribution or use of drugs, was not involved in prostitution, nor de he enslave anyone; all he did “wrong” was fund dog-fighting.
Michael Vick was the fall guy that the court attempted to make an example out of. Dog-fighting is a sport just like MMA/Cage fighting.
Michael
August 16th, 2009
10:27 pm
Vick has suffered the most public humiliation imaginable, has lost millions, and has millions of strangers, low lifes and no talent losers who get to say to him — What are you — Stupid? He makes Elliot Spitzer look brilliant.
Jeff
August 16th, 2009
10:27 pm
I love dogs–grew up with them. Have two now. Michael Vick was directly/indirectly responsible for the gruesome, painful death of dogs. Michael Vick went to prison for those actions for 18 months. Michael Vick is out of prison now and hopes to resume his life. Regardless of what Michael Vick does/does not achieve for the rest of his career, the first paragraph of his obituary will probably note his involvement in dog-fighting.
I wish Mike Vick well. I hope he’s successful in his rehabilitation efforts. Who knows if he will be? That said, he doesn’t need my forgiveness and I wouldn’t be arrogant enough to ask for it. He needs to come to peace with himself and become a productive member of society (in whatever form that takes).
Despite my abhorrence at dog-fighting, let’s quit trying to make false equivalencies to other crimes. Crimes against animals are simply not comparable to anything else in the criminal code. Crimes against people are considered the most egregious, followed by crimes against property. Who knows where crimes against animals should fall on that plane?
For all the Michael Vick haters, do whatever you wish, but my advice would be to let it go. If you want to be perpetually disgusted by an athlete’s behavior, I’m sure there will be plenty of opportunities in the near future to outraged at someone else.
meb
August 16th, 2009
10:28 pm
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
10:12 pm
CODE:
“There is more hatred for Vick than Bernie Madoff who ruined generations of lives.”
How can you claim this? I don’t hear anyone anywhere defending Madoff; yet there are still plenty of people trying to defend MV!
———————–
Ed -
Speaking for myself. I am not trying to defend Mike, but I do understand where he came from and tend to want to cut him some slack. Where I grew up, dog fighting was a regular occurence and jsut as Mike stated, there were policemen that would see this and do nothing. As a youg kid seeing this activity going on all the time and the police don’t do anything send the message that it is ok. When dog fight occurred in our neighborhoods, there were no secret meeting places. It was in the open for all to see who wanted to see and no one thought anything of it. These same guys that fought dogs int eh neighbor I grew up in also ahd dogs that they did not fight. The dogs that they loved on and played with. The dogs they fought were treated as money makers, nothing more. So I can empathize with that part of his life. I’ve had dogs all of my life. Haven’t fought any of them. Loved them all, but had no problem watching a dog fight back in the day. Its funny how some sports entertainment are legal that abuse animals (Rodeos, bull fighting, sport hunting, etc) and how some sports entertainment are legal where humans get to abuse each other( Boxing, MMA, etc) but this activity has caused people to lose their minds. I’m not condoning dog fighting as it is illegal, but people please do not elevate dogs to the level of humans.
Timothy
August 16th, 2009
10:29 pm
I think what people miss is that Mike was only a product of his environment. Some may think you automatically know right from wrong in certain situations, but it’s not true. You dont have to believe what he says, no problem in that. But when he tells you he never really practiced, studied, or dedicated himself, is because nobody ever taught him to do it. He didnt have an example, or did anyone pull him to the side and show him what it takes so hopefully, he has learned from what has happened.
Toots
August 16th, 2009
10:31 pm
Mark, I’m with you. People can change and there’s nothing naive about hoping that someone has changed.
eastbound and down
August 16th, 2009
10:32 pm
Barbara, who are “all these black people are on the front seat when it comes to forgiving Michael Vick?” what about all the white people in the front seat beside them? and to compare what Vick did with owning slaves? come on…. these comments are typical of small minded people who don’t understand when they sound like idiots.
eastbound and down
August 16th, 2009
10:34 pm
at the end of the day it is just about dogs. people in the south have shot dogs that can’t point. “that dog don’t hunt.”
shooting wolves from helicopters and planes is ok. bullfighting, ok…whatever..
Famuan
August 16th, 2009
10:35 pm
Mark, second degree vehicular homicide is not a felony?
Fred
August 16th, 2009
10:35 pm
Dany Heatley did plead to a felony.
Mark Bradley
August 16th, 2009
10:40 pm
Second-degree vehicular homicide for Dany Heatley. I stand corrected.
meb
August 16th, 2009
10:42 pm
Barbara
August 16th, 2009
10:14 pm
It is just amazing that all these black people are on the front seat when it comes to forgiving Michael Vick. But where are they when it comes to forgiving white slave owners. Whoa, now! That’s talking about forgiving white folks. Now, that’s something different.
————————————————————-
Vick said he regrets his actions, therefore it allows you to enter into a forgiving mode (no matter how skeptical). I’m not sure that the White slave owners nor the racist people of the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s have collectively said they regret how they have treated black people in this country. I have not hear them say how they are sorry for ommitting from teh history books the very real contributions of black people in fighting for this country and the building of this country. I have not seen them be contrite about turning dogs on the black people, turning water hoses on black people, lynching black people just becasue they are black. So Barbara, If you are one those racists adn you want to be forgiven, please show me how sorry you are for your attitude and that of your ancestors that tortured our ancestors and I think that most (not all ) black people are willing to forgive. I won’t hold my breath waiting for your apology as I might pass out before then…..
meb
August 16th, 2009
10:46 pm
But Danny Heatley served NO TIME and didn’t miss a paycheck or a day on the ice. There was no uproar about this from the same people who are so angry and unforgiving towards Vick.
Whopper Dawg
August 16th, 2009
10:49 pm
Mark, given Vick’s history, any prudent man would not proclaim him as changed based on the very short history since his release and a 20 minute interview that was obviously scripted. That being said, let us all hope that he is reformed and can do more with his life than run fast. Only time will tell, and according to Vick, he understands that it it up to him, which it is.
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
10:50 pm
Heatley killed his best friend in an automobile accident.
Ed-Covington
August 16th, 2009
10:52 pm
Arthur Blank: “Michael, have you been involved in dog-fighting?”
MV: “No”
Roger Goodell: “Mr. Vick, have you been involved in dog-fighting?”
MV: “No”
What does his lying have to do with whether he thought that dog-fighting was wrong or not? Lying to your team owner and the commissioner is not “relevant to the NFL”?
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
10:52 pm
Heatley wasn’t even drunk. Vick made a conscious decision to electrocute dogs. It’s not even debatable.
Diggity Dawg
August 16th, 2009
10:57 pm
Biomass: Bringing up Dungy’s son was a low-class move. Why don’t you go over to Bookman’s blog with the other creeps?
Fred
August 16th, 2009
10:58 pm
chemdawg, Dany Heatley made a conscious decision to have a few drinks and then speed recklessly down a two lane winding road the wee hours of the morning with a passenger in his car. He consciously chose to push the accelerator to more than 50 miles above the speed limit. His conscious decision led to the death of his teammate.
MLH
August 16th, 2009
10:59 pm
What pissed me off was after giving him the biggest contract in NFL history, he admitted to being lazy. He was the last player to practice and the first to leave. Didn’t study the playbook or try to get better. How sorry is that after an owner makes you the richest man in the game. Disgraceful.
Denver Bird
August 16th, 2009
11:01 pm
all I want to know is… what does TED STRIKER think????
Famuan
August 16th, 2009
11:02 pm
Apparently its NOT relevant to the NFL which is why Vick’s jersey was the featured item on their site….and why the NFL will make sure the Eagles-Falcons game is a national one. Sorry AWM, but money talks and bs walks….Eagles preseason game tickets are selling out faster than the Falcons home opener.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/32418854?__source=RSS
Go ahead and hate!
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
11:03 pm
Fred, don’t make me make you look foolish again. Heatley wasn’t drunk, but he was speeding. There was no malice involved nor a coordinated effort to kill his teammate. I can truthfully say that though I have never funded a dog fighting organization and hung dogs by a tree, I have, in fact, been guilty of speeding. Have you?
FALCONS SORRY
August 16th, 2009
11:03 pm
ALL HATERS! MIKE VICK HAS AGAIN SHOWED US ALL WHY IS THE ONE OF THE GREATEST AND MOST GIFTED ATHELETES TO EVER STEP ON A FIELD! IT TAKE A REALLY BIG MAN TO ADMIT WHEN HE MAKE A MISTAKE AND MIKE VICK STEPPED UP AND SHOWED THAT HE IS A MAN! AND ALL THE HATE FROM ALL YOU HATERS THAT JUST WANT TO TEAR HIM DOWN AND PUT HIM BACK IN SHACKELS AND CHAINS LIKE SO MANY OF YOU THINK HE BELONG WILL NEVER CHANGE THE FACT THAT HE IS HIS OWN MAN! YOU HATERS ONLY MAKE HIM STRONGER! THE COURT OF THE SO CALLED LAW TRIED TO DESTROY THIS MAN BUT NOW THE COURT OF PUBLIC OPINION WILL FIND THIS MAN CLEARED OF ALL CHARGES THE HATERS ARE THROWING AGAINST HIM AND SEE HOW HE HAS BEEN WRONGED! ALL OF US AS AMERICANS CAN BE PROUD OF THE MATURITY AND GRACE THIS MAN SHOWED THE WHOLE WORLD TONIGHT AND WE CAN ONLY HOPE OUR PRESIDENT WILL SEE WHAT AN INJUSTICE HAS TAKEN PLACE FOR HOW MUCH THIS MAN AND GIFTED FOOTBALL PLAYER HAS SUFFERED OVER A FEW WORTHLESS DOGS THAT NO BODY EVEN CARE ABOUT ANYWAY AND PARDON THIS MAN AND LET HIM GET HIS LIFE BACK THE HATERS TRIED TO TAKE AWAY FROM HIM! COURAGE ON THE FIELD AND OFF! THAT 60 MINUTES BROAD CAST SHOWED THAT MV7 IS A GOOD AND HUMBLE MAN OF WHICH EVERBODY IN ATL AND PHILADELPHIA CAN BE PROUD OF TO HAVE HIM REPRESENT THEM! YOUR HATERS CAN NOT TEAR YOU DOWN BECAUSE THEY ONLY MAKE YOU STRONGER AND GIVE YOU EVEN MORE CHANCES TO SHOW YOUR GREATNESS IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY MIKE!
sc falcon
August 16th, 2009
11:05 pm
Biomass: Bringing up Dungy’s son was very low class. Tony Dungy is a man of class which is what you maybe need some of. Vick made a terrible mistake. It was horrendous what he did, but give the guy a break. He paid the price and I think that Tony Dungy is the perfect man to mentor him. BTW, I am white.
mike
August 16th, 2009
11:05 pm
good article MB…i wish MV7 the best in the future. Go birds (falcons, that is)
Falcon Fan
August 16th, 2009
11:06 pm
Good Point Just an Observation. Likewise, now that the truth is out hopefully, you people can forgive and allow Vick to move on. First of all with his life and then his career to support himself and his family. And quit holding his feet to the fire for his checkered past. WE ALL MAKE MISTAKES, SOME MORE TERRIBLE THAN OTHERS. At the same time it’s amazing how the NFL is already profiting off of Vick’s jersey number 7. GO EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!!
chemdawg
August 16th, 2009
11:16 pm
Tony
August 16th, 2009
11:18 pm
Why not start him out as Waterboy for about 10 years ,, Then let him try out for `Qback, or Towelboy!
yall are dumb
August 16th, 2009
11:23 pm
Im not a Vick support nor a Falcons fan but I felt a need to comment on these ridiculous comments. For the people who think Vick should apologize to each and every one of you, you’re retarded. He did something horrible and illegal and he did his time for it, but he owes none of us an apology. Unless you were an owner of one of the dogs he murdered.
To BIOMASS, God have mercy on your soul for you awful comment about Tony Dungy’s son. I pray you don’t have children, and if you do I pray you never have to witness one of them killing themselves. You know Karma isn’t a pretty thing.
Charlie
August 16th, 2009
11:25 pm
Tony Dungy is a great man, who walks away from millions to visit prisons in order to spread hope, responsibility and to show that someone cares. That, poeple, is how you make the world a better place.
Nick
August 16th, 2009
11:25 pm
I don’t think that it’s about being skeptical and saying “yeah right.” I went into the interview with an open mind and only heard Vick say the wrong things. When did he feel disgust for his actions? By his account, during his first days in jail. What were the thoughts that kept running through his mind as he sat in a jail cell? That this wasn’t the life he was supposed to lead. That he was supposed to be out there playing football and making a lot of money. Of course, when pressed on that comment Vick made the necessary backtrack by stating that his career and the money meant nothing, but he had already made it clear to me that that was all that meant anything to him. To me, this interview was simply further indication that Vick’s real regrets is his tarnished image and loss of funds. I heard no regret for the actions themselves.
Does anyone deserve a second chance?
August 16th, 2009
11:27 pm
I love dogs; moreover my wife has her second seeing eye dog that not only assist her, but it gives unconditional love 24/7. I cried when the first dog died. So, I too was angry when I heard Michael Vick was involved with dog fighting. It still stirs rage to hear when someone hurts a dog or animal for no reason. I understand the anger and passion on this blog but this man serve his debt and I belive he deserves a second chance.
Michael Vick has a chance to redeem himself and the world will be watching. I wish him well. Go Falcons and Go Jackets!
Does anyone deserve a second chance?
August 16th, 2009
11:29 pm
Also, rather you agree or disagree have a “wonderful week all!” That means you too Mark! See ya on the flats!
Night Moves
August 16th, 2009
11:36 pm
It’s generally accepted by our social standards that what MV did is horrific, but how bad he feels about it, only God and MV (and maybe Kreskin) know. How bad does a Spanish bullfighter feel about stabbing his bovine victim til he bleeds out in front of thousands of el afficianados? MV grew up hanging out with the older men who exposed him to this neighborhood pastime. Children grow up in Uganda, S. Africa and Mozambique learning to kill innocent people with guns. In other words, are people just lost products of their environments or can they change?
All I know is that as a ten-year Falcons season ticket holder (and very suburban white boy), Mike Vick brought my son and me some of the most special moments we’ve ever experienced in sports.
I believe people can change and I’m proud to be a goober homer who looks forward to seeing #7 in the NFL again… hopefully tearing up the AFC west or some place far from Philly and Atlanta.
DiJo
August 16th, 2009
11:37 pm
I wish Michael Vick the very best in his future career, I know he will be even more successful than he was with the Falcons; and I commend Tony Dungy for stepping up as a mentor and father figure in his life. I hope this will be a spring board for future programs like this to flourish and thereby curb the downward spiral for many of these young athletes.
Fred
August 16th, 2009
11:40 pm
chemdawg, so Heatley gets a pass because he didn’t kill someone EVERYTIME he got behind the wheel of a car going 100 mph?? Is that your point? He meant to speed, therefore its not an accident…its a consequence. Dan Snyder is DEAD….a human being is DEAD…his family won’t see him again unless they look at pictures. He’s DEAD, but yet you think that’s just honky dorry because ya know…Heatley’s a really nice guy and all..he didn’t mean it!!! Whatever…Heatley gets the protection, he is 100% responsible for the death of a human being, yet its perfectly acceptable in your eyes. WOW.
mike
August 16th, 2009
11:43 pm
good point nightmoves regarding the bullfighting in spain…i would like to see all the people who are going to boycott nfl/eagles/vick etc start to boycott their nice summer vacations in barcelona.. that stuff they do over there is pretty horrific to the bulls..
MrKnowGood
August 16th, 2009
11:45 pm
Well said Mark…That was exactly the kind of column the city (and the country) needed 1.5 years ago. Now, let’s hope some of your common sense rubs off on Jeff Schultz.
stendec
August 16th, 2009
11:51 pm
Loss to 0-Forever Detroit Lions unacceptable under any circumstances! Horrible choke job by Falcons in American sewer known as Michigan. Completely nauseating. Nothing good from this debacle. Flat F- grades all the way around. Lowest available. Oh yeah. (CENSORED) Mike Sick! At least dog population in Philly will not be a problem. (CENSORED) Eagles.
Charlie
August 16th, 2009
11:53 pm
Fred, you did not answer the question, have you ever driven over the speed limit?
How about Matt Johnson, he is an incredible athlete, yet, he does not have a job in the NFL. Why do you thing that is? I am just glad he is white so I don’t have to listen to it.
Charlie
August 16th, 2009
11:54 pm
Stendic, Detroit went 4-0 last preseason. Worring about pre-season records is for losers.
JIM
August 17th, 2009
12:01 am
it ( vick is not a “He” )is sorry because the lost of $130,000,000.00.
chemdawg
August 17th, 2009
12:01 am
You’re good at misrepresenting (or making up) what I said. I never said vehicular homicide is acceptable. It’s just not comparable to Vick’s situation, morally, legally, or socially. Intent and malice is the difference between the two situations. Heatley made an impulsive decision to speed (a physical mistake) which led to the death of his best friend and teammate. Is there any doubt that Heatley felt remorse? That night will follow him for the rest of his life. Vick funded a dog fighting organization with the intent to brutally kill dogs. Unlike Heatley’s mistake, if he felt remorse for his actions, he could have stopped after the FIRST YEAR (he didn’t). He even admitted in his interview that he didn’t feel remorse until he went to jail. Jail time is a deterrent for people like Vick who need to be forced to feel remorse for doing bad things.
JIM
August 17th, 2009
12:06 am
A question for those people think vick should hv a second chance,
how about those voiceless dogs were killed and tortured by him,
DID THEY HV A SECOND CHANCE?
Marie
August 17th, 2009
12:08 am
Barbara there are still slave owners living in this nation? I’m shocked!!!! Tell me where I can find them so I can forgive them. You TWIT!!!
And trust me SWEETY if black folks were not a forgiving people we would never have progressed this far as a nation. Its apparent you have been totally tuned out to what has happened in this nation over the past 30-40 years as race relationships have greatly improved; although ignorant numbskulls like you want to turn back the clock.
And since you want to go down that road. There is a Democratic congressman by the name of Robert Byrd who represents the state of W. VA. who has served in Congress for many years now. He was a former member of the KKK, but, Black Americans in that state faithfully voted for this man for years. And the Blacks in AL forgave George Wallace. And Blacks across this country have forgiven many racists and segregationist who did everything in their power to harass, murder, rape, and torture Black people in this country.
Don’t you EVER presume to tell us who we need to forgive; when the blood of our ancestors have been soaked in the soil of this nation all because we decided to to turn the other cheek and did not render evil for evil.
Christine
August 17th, 2009
12:13 am
Anyone who could do what he did is just evil. He is a monster, and spending time in jail isn’t going to change who he is deep down. You can’t cure “evil”. He is only saying he is sorry so he can resume his career. He lied all the way though this thing and I have no doubt he is still lying. I hope he brings the Eagles lots of bad karma.
judge
August 17th, 2009
12:17 am
For vick supporters, here are some pictures u guys must see:)
http://stephaniehyde.net
Charlie
August 17th, 2009
12:19 am
So Marie, “We” should never tell “you” who to forgive? I guess that is the point.
Fred
August 17th, 2009
12:25 am
Chemdawg, why shouldn’t that night have followed him OUT of the NHL? Why do you think its ok that the felon Dany Heatley should be playing but Mike Vick is supposed to have some EXTRA punishment on top of what the judicial system ruled? Please, A human being is dead and the person responsible is making his millions and not tripping, he’s not writing apology letters to the editor of the AJC to the fans of the Thrashers and he didn’t stand up and tell everyone how sorry he was and cry about it…he most certainly DID NOT…yet you have twits here thinking Mike VIck is supposed to come to their trailer and personally ask for their forgiveness like they walk on water…and you have the audacity to suggest its quite ok that Heatley didnt serve jail time..because he was so remorseful and all…yeah, I guess killing your best friend IS a downer.
Charlie, yes I’ve driven over the speed limit, and if I kill somebody in the process, I expect the full punishment of the judicial system. Now i dont know who Matt Johnson is…I assume you mean Matt Jones, but why are you asking about why a receiver hasn’t signed a contract yet? Marvin Harrison is also available..and there are veteran running backs still unsigned too, Warrick Dunn, Edgerrin James and Shaun Alexander to name a few…so what’s your point? Vick played a position for which there is a market…and according to every single NFL player that’s seen him, he is in 1999 Va Tech shape, so what’s your point again? Matt Jones is a good athlete, not an incredible athlete, that’s why he’s waiting for someone to get injured and he’ll sign. His drug habit gets a pass even though drugs have done far more damage to american society than dogfighting EVER will, but hey….he gets a pass!
Jim from Waukegan
August 17th, 2009
12:26 am
I’m a dog lover. Mike Vick has been involved with dog fighting supposedly since he was eight years old. He wasn;t drunk or high when he commited these cruelties. It was a voluntary act unlike Stallworth, Little, etc. He has been punished. He says he sorry. But…..let his actions speak louder than words. Keep doing the public service announcements against dog fighting, but also donate at least 10% of your new hefty salary to animal causes to put some real weight behind your “regret and guilt” for the horrible cruelties that you;ve been a part of. That will convince me that you have reformed and deserve our forgiveness. Jim from Waukegan
BugKiller
August 17th, 2009
12:27 am
Mark, you are such a bleeding-heart. It’s amazing that someone as old as you are can be so incredibly naive.
Michael Vick is a SOCIOPATH.
These people do not feel remorse. Their brains are simply incapable of that kind of human emotion.
Michael Vick took FAMILY DOGS, dogs his CHILDREN would play with, and threw them into the dogfighting ring, watching his fighting dogs tear these poor, sweet creatures limb-from-limb, LAUGHING about it the whole time.
LAUGHING, Mark!!!
These are not the actions of a man who has the ability to feel remorse, to feel empathy.
You know what Mike Vick feels?
The squeezing of his wallet.
Mike Vick knows he has NO chance of paying off his debtors without playing in the NFL.
So Mike Vick is doing what Mike Vick does.
He is LYING his @$$ off to anyone and everyone. He is being coached, very well, by new enablers like Tony Dungy, on how to appear remorseful, even though those of us who understand his sociopathic nature know he couldn’t possibly be.
Mike Vick is evil.
Sociopaths don’t belong on a football field. They belong in a high security mental institution so they don’t hurt anyone or anything else.
HE LAUGHED as his family dogs were brutally killed by his fighting dogs, Mark.
LAUGHED!!!
You have to be the biggest soft-headed, bleeding-heart this side of Arthur Blank to buy what Vick is selling.
He is EVIL.
MsDirect
August 17th, 2009
12:27 am
Mark,
I don’t think we saw the same interview. I was rooting for Vick, hoping he would show genuine contrition and turn this into the kind of exemplary “second chance” story Tony Dungy has been talking about.
Instead, Vick’s answers felt completely rehearsed, totally unconvincing. He had every opportunity to show real emotion and he never did.
Also, I have to say that James Brown conducted a real “softball” interview. If there was genuine emotion beneath the surface, he didn’t push hard enough to get Vick to show anything authentic.
Fred
August 17th, 2009
12:27 am
Hey judge, here is a picture you must see
http://store.philadelphiaeagles.com/Philadelphia-Eagles-Michael-Vick-Merchandise-_-143078439_PG.html
REALITY
August 17th, 2009
12:28 am
As a long suffering Falcons fan, I marveled at the athleticism of Vick.
I met him once right after the Green Bay playoff win outside his home in Sugarloaf Country Club. I always heard the reports that he was last to arrive at practice and first to leave. Now, for Vick to admit just that, that he WASN’T EVEN TRYING TO LEARN and IMPROVE!! That is what makes me sick! 130 MILLION DOLLARS and you don’t FREAKING TRY??!!??
It epitomizes ALL that is wrong with sports today.
Yet, Vick did his time…judgement is mine saith the Lord…so I wish him well…hope he truly has learned from his mistakes.
Famuan
August 17th, 2009
12:29 am
Good grief…its entitled Miss Anne’s like “Msdirect”….she didn’t see anything authentic….these Sarah Palin twits are just funny.
Marie
August 17th, 2009
12:31 am
Jim my man I will try to be nice, but, I HAVE HAD IT UP TO HERE with this nonesense about these darn dogs.
You stated:
A question for those people think vick should hv a second chance,
how about those voiceless dogs were killed and tortured by him,
DID THEY HV A SECOND CHANCE?
I have a question for you. Do the underperforming and unwanted dogs that are used for the Iditarod race in Alaska get a 2nd chance? This is a statement from http://www.helpsleddogs.org:
“Culling is a common practice among mushers. The Iditarod mushers breed many dogs, hoping to get a few who will be fast enough to race. According to an article in the Anchorage Daily News, “Killing unwanted sled-dog puppies is part of doing business” (October 6, 1991), most of the mushers cull by shooting their dogs in the head. An animal who is not properly restrained when the musher shoots may suffer an agonizing death. Mushers also cull dogs who are injured in the Iditarod, old but otherwise healthy dogs, or any dog who is not wanted for any reason. Musher Lorraine Temple said, “They (the big racing outfits) can’t keep a dog who’s a mile an hour too slow” (Currents, Fall, 1999).”
This is also true for greyhound dogs involved in greyhound racing. And it is true for the thoroughbred horses which are bred for horse racing.
The bottom line is this — people who breed dogs or horses for sport (whether its legal or illegal) do not form a bond with those animals. They are not COMPANION PETS to them; they are bred for entertainment and/or profit — nothing more, nothing less. Do you really believe they are going to pay to house, feed, provide medical care, etc., to a dog or horse that cannot bring them a profit?
Grow up and start thinking like an adult and quit whining like emotional children. If you want to end the killing of unwanted dogs and horses which participate in animal sports then contact all the members of Congress and demand that they pass laws outlawing ALL animal sports. Until that day happens dogs and horses will continue to be killed in inhumane ways. Deal with it!!!
JW
August 17th, 2009
12:43 am
I have never understood what he did or why he did it. I am huge animal lover. I do believe at some point you have to say he has paid his price and gets a another chance. I did not think he could change his heart and really care about animals but as long as he did the work that is ok. I do think he has the chance to make a difference and after listening to him tonight I think he does feel something for animals. I hope so because it will make his message more powerful. I think he is sincere and deserves another chance. I think Vick is lucky to have Tony D has a mentor!
BugKiller
August 17th, 2009
12:46 am
Maria,
You’re an idiot.
I have “Had it up to here” with reverse-racists like you who point to other people’s bad behavior to excuse Mike Vick’s deplorable behavior.
I have “Had it up to here” with people like you who want to excuse every foul thing Mike Vick did because of the color of his skin.
I have “Had it up to here” with people like you.
And again, for the record, Mike Vick threw his family dogs into the ring, or bought rescue dogs from pounds, poor, defenseless family pets, that WERE NOT BRED TO FIGHT, to be used as “practice” for his fighting dogs.
Your words here are EVIL, Maria.
I think it’s high time you look into a frakking mirror and into your soulless eyes, Maria, and beg for forgiveness that you continue to support the kind of sociopathic evil that is Mike Vick.
I bet you knew OJ didn’t do it, either, huh Maria?
Tonnia Blount
August 17th, 2009
12:51 am
PLEASE!!!!!! PLEASE!!!!! LEAVE MICHAEL VIC ALONE. THIS MAN HAS LOST EVERYTHING GOD HAS SHOWN HIM FAVOR!!!!! HE HAS A CHANCE TO GET IT RIGHT THIS TIME I HOPE THAT GOD WILL HELP YOU PEOPLE GET IT RIGHT
Terrell
August 17th, 2009
12:55 am
A lie is a lie regardless. How can you weigh a lie? How can you weigh any wrong doing? People continue to say if he wasn’t in the spotlight he wouldn’t be saying this or given a second chance. The guys he did this with got off easier than he did, and they weren’t anybody special.
I really do continue to wonder if this was anybody else (Brady, Manning, Brees etc…) and they apologized would we be so quick to say they weren’t sorry, or would we welcome them in with open arms. I think the latter more than the former
Marie
August 17th, 2009
1:21 am
BugKiller, I’m glad that made you mad — here are some more examples of dog cruelty in Alaska for you to digest. Good night JohnBoy!!!
[1] “Alaskan State Troopers served a search warrant at the home of a person suspected of shooting 18 sled dogs in Manley. The dogs, owned by recreational musher Chuck Parker, disappeared March 8.”
[2] “Three sled dogs killed, each shot three times with a rifle at point-blank range. Nome police have no motive or suspects.”
[3]Frank Winkler, a two-time Iditarod racer, was charged with 14 counts of cruelty to animals after an animal control officer, summoned by Winkler’s neighbor, found a crate of dead and dying puppies in Winkler’s pickup truck. Winkler, who claimed he couldn’t afford to take the animals to a veterinarian to be euthanized, allegedly bludgeoned the puppies with the blunt end of an ax. According to court documents, Winkler said that he shot some of the dogs, a “kinder” method, according to veterinarians, and was just following advice from fellow mushers.
[4] Jerry Riley, the 1975 winner of the Iditarod, hit and killed a dog with a snow hook, a large, sharp metal claw.
[5]In 1985, a musher was disqualified after he kicked his sled dog to death during the Iditirod.
BugKiller
August 17th, 2009
1:32 am
Again, Maria…
… explain to me how pointing to the wrong that others have done somehow excuses the evil that Mike Vick is?
If you can explain this to me, I will join you and OJ in your hunt for the real killers, you reverse-racist.
jameskpolka
August 17th, 2009
1:52 am
That’s a really intereresting argument — that Michael Vick’s Big Achievement are these Mea Culpa I’m So Ashamed and Sorry speeches and interviews. Mark Bradley asks us when we ever did something so brave.
I didn’t have to do anything so brave. I never tortured defenseless animals for sport, pleasure and profit.
Bradley should back up a bit and discuss what he thinks of animal torture. My take on Bradley is that we should all just move beyond that little unpleasantness so we can get to the important stuff: Michael Vick playing NFL football again.
What perversion would Vick have to have done for Bradley to say negative things about Vick? Disembowel girl scouts?
Grace
August 17th, 2009
2:00 am
904boy – that’s exactly what you are. A boy and not a man. Give me a break. A man / adult / mature human being is accountable for his actions and is responsible. “All he did…..” Yep. You’re a boy.
Marie
August 17th, 2009
2:12 am
BugKiller, please tell me where in my post did I excuse Michael Vick’s actions? And I certainly made no reference to the race of anyone when I referred to the Iditarod and Greyhound racing or to horse racing; so why you’re so agitated and accusing me of reverse-racismn is beyond me. And what OJ has to do with any of this — again that is beyond me. I haven’t HEARD from OJ since he got locked up. But the next time I talk to him I’ll tell him BugKiller said “he’s waiting for his neck massage.”
ronhos
August 17th, 2009
10:16 am
The trace of a smile throughout the whole interview gave him away. He is laughing at a gullible public that will allow him to reclaim his millions. How contrite would he be if Goodell told him his maximum salary would be $50K, or even the NFL minimum and no endorsements? Anyone can be contrite for $130 M +. Go back and look at the tape and watch his grin.
Voz de razon
August 17th, 2009
10:18 am
Money speaks louder than words in this world…
Angry at Michael Vick and the NFL? Then boycott them both.
Stop buying NFL merchandise.
Stop buying overpriced game tickets.
Stop watching the games on TV and listening on the radio.
Stop supporting this out-of-control sports culture we have created.
Only then will they get the message.
Stop being sheep, my friends.
Marcus Vick
August 17th, 2009
10:21 am
Anyone supports Vick is trash. Period. I suppose Charlie Manson deserves a “second chance” too.
What's Important
August 17th, 2009
10:23 am
Mark, it’s a good thing you aren’t an investigative reporter, apparently you’ll believe anything. By the way, are we going to hear anything about our actual Falcons today?
Marcus Vick
August 17th, 2009
10:26 am
http://www.officialvickdogchewtoy.com
willdave
August 17th, 2009
10:35 am
Another column on Vick? OK, I’ll play along.
Whether Vick was sincere or not, he was correct to express regret that he let down the one person who stood by him when he easily could have parted ways with him much earlier: Arthur Blank. Incredibly, Vick lied to the one man who had the power, resources and desire to help him. We can only speculate how this sad saga might have turned out if Vick had been honest with Mr. Blank when he asked him about the dogfighting.
George Holman
August 17th, 2009
10:57 am
As a life-long Falcons fan, I shared the distress and sadness over the entire Michael Vick saga. Let’s all be reminded, however, that we live in a nation of second chances. Vick has paid his debt to society, and I find him truly sorry and contrite. His actions will speak louder than any of his words, but I, for one, am a big fan and supporter of the “new” Vick. I say best wishes to Michael and thanks to the Eagles for taking a chance. I have become a new Eagles fan, except when they play the Falcons!
PMC
August 17th, 2009
11:01 am
I hope at the end of this it’s one of the best comeback stories ever.
You can’t change what has transpired but you can learn from it and you can come out a better person.
BUCK
August 17th, 2009
11:07 am
I you know read the you know transcript you know I really you know believe you know Vick you know feels you know bad you know about loosing all his you know money you know.
Sam
August 17th, 2009
11:08 am
I don’t believe him. I don’t NOT believe him. He has lost all benefit of doubt. Only time will tell. If is not sincere, he will screw up again….guarantee it. If his is sincere, his actions will speak far louder than his words on the interview.
Sam
August 17th, 2009
11:10 am
Yeah Buck, he sounds like a female black version of Caroline Kennedy……you’re such an idiot racist!
Atlanta Sports Fan
August 17th, 2009
11:31 am
Mike Vick has NO character as shown by his abuse of animals and his lazy work habits. Being a punk meant more to him than being a man of character. He has not changed.
The only reason he cried in jail was because of what he lost, not for the dead dogs he caused to suffer and kill.
He is just saying what he has to say to get an NFL paycheck. He would say UP is DOWN if it served his purpose. He is one sick mother.
YUP!!
August 17th, 2009
11:37 am
I wish the AJC writers would stop the Vick crap. He’s in Philly now! If you want to write about Vick move to Philly and do so there!
He’s gone so let him be gone!!!
Good luck Vick! I hope a 350+lb d-lineman you play against this year is not an animal lover or your new career maybe over sooner than later.
Greg's boss
August 17th, 2009
11:45 am
This guy reminds me of one of those idiots who won the lottery and then blew it all.
slow roller
August 17th, 2009
11:51 am
Vick is a Pot addict. He has not intentions to stop smoking Pot. Until he kicks the pot habit, he will continue to “take it to the white man”. He has never addressed this problem, but it is at the root of his sociopathic life. He is an addict.
David Granger
August 17th, 2009
11:52 am
I agree with you, Mark, in that Michael Vick said exactly what he needed to say and said it well. Now comes the part where he has to LIVE the talk, and that’s always the hard part. He’s starting over from BEHIND the starting line, and has to expect a lot of skepticism. He’s got to keep himself under control…no more flipping off the crowds, etc. He’s got to keep from being offended out in public (it would sure help if he stays away from the bars and clubs), and he’ll have to swallow some criticms without letting it push him to retaliation. Because of certain factors, he’ll have an easier time than someone like John Rocker did…but he’s still got a hard road to walk.
I’m pulling for him.
JB
August 17th, 2009
12:37 pm
Does anyone know if he was paid for the interview?
Chris
August 17th, 2009
12:46 pm
It’s one thing to wish Vick well in the future, and hope he redeems himself. I don’t agree, but I don’t disagree. It’s one thing to want to believe him. I don’t, but kudos to you if that’s you.
It’s quite another thing to STILL not understand what he did wrong, or why he was punished the way he has. It’s quite another thing to STILL support dog fighting, and try to compare and justify it to other felonies. It’s quite another thing to think that anyone who is against Vick is a white republican living in the suburbs. Ignorance. Breathe it in.
The best thing about Vick getting caught? It has decreased the demand for these dogs, and hopefully we’re on the way to stamping it out. Being part of your upbringing isn’t a good excuse.
The second best thing? It got us rid of Mike Vick. Atlanta has a QB that actually can read defenses.
Wilbo
August 17th, 2009
1:33 pm
Hey, Mark when you and Vick play baseball, are you the catcher or the pitcher?
Good grief, dude, I’ve never seen a man more obsessed with another man, except maybe Chris Matthews and Obama… Are you ever going to get over this and move on? Actually, maybe you should move to Philly.
Contrite or not, the guy still won’t be able to read defenses or hit the open man downfield.
Steve
August 17th, 2009
1:34 pm
I’m glad Philly is giving Vick a chance. I hope the Eagles didn’t pay too much for Vick. Based on the comments he made to 60 minutes (concerning his lack of commitment to his NFL team) I wouldn’t want to pay much for him (league minimum) until seeing he has indeed changed his ways concerning his play.
earldaddy
August 17th, 2009
1:56 pm
Yeah, and I suppose we should stop allowing martha stewart to sell sheets and towels at walmart, right? There’s a double standard when hate clouds your judgement. Very sad.
"Mr. Falcon"
August 17th, 2009
2:06 pm
I’ll bet Vick cried 135,000,000 tears in prison. He was mourning the loss of all those dead presidents. For all those people who defended Vick for dog fighting; I hope this interview opened your narrow minds. Vick admitted to brutally murdering dogs. However, he has now been punished under the law and is free again. Good Luck Vick!
shannyeight
August 17th, 2009
2:26 pm
i’m laughing @ the guy who says vick brought down a franchise.
last time i looked that “said franchise” had an 11-5 season.
seriously folks…get a life. buy one. do something meaningful.
slow roller
August 17th, 2009
2:29 pm
Vick is still a Pothead….which means he will get high Saturday night and play like a stoned idiot on Sunday, just like he did in Atlanta the entire last year. Why doesn’t anyway else call him on that?
how2fish
August 17th, 2009
2:33 pm
Well I hope he can move on and make a difference for good with his life, he is in a great position to be a positive factor in a lot of folks lives if he will..I do wish him the best of luck..but I’m not leaving him alone with my dogs…after all the dog fighting as bad as that is pales compared to throwing his “pets” in the ring with his “business” dogs…that is truly upsetting. Bottom line he gets another chance..and our best wishes…we as Falcon fans get a better QB and a better man to be the “face” of the team. Good luck Mike!
Darth Hater
August 17th, 2009
2:35 pm
Michael Vick should have died in the crash with Dany Heatley.
Josh Hamilton loves road meat
August 17th, 2009
2:38 pm
To hell with Ron Mexico, he just an overpaid thug from da ghetto.
Matt Ryan is the MAN and its KILLING Da brothaz & sistaz of da ATL.
If ya’ll dont like it, move to Philly peoples!
Mike
August 17th, 2009
2:44 pm
Really sad to see people still habor so much hate towards this man. Its probably more than some nasty licking dogs. You know those dogs that lick themselves and then lick you. MV will get on with his life and the members of the hatenation will continue to spend their time, efforts and energy hating. The US Army is killing civilians every day and no one complains. Each county animal shelter puts to sleep dogs each week and no one complains. Maybe the hate is just for some poor country boy who made it big and really did not look like you. Maybe you just hate your own self and life and use MV as an easy excuse.
how2fish
August 17th, 2009
2:48 pm
Mike your an idiot…and a huge percetage of the US army looks just the same a Mike Vick.And moron if you don’t see the difference in putting a animal to sleep and making them tear each other to pieces. You have every right to back Mike Vick..but to disrespect the very men and women that give you that right…that’s hate Mike of the lowest and worse kind.
shannyeight
August 17th, 2009
3:15 pm
i swear some of these charecters would “pet”-ition for vick to pay their therapy bills since they CANT GET OVER IT.
geeze lou-friggin weeze.
JAY
August 17th, 2009
3:17 pm
BUGKILLER..I’m convinced your racists
Mike Licht
August 17th, 2009
6:58 pm
Vick interview provokes howls of protest.
See:
http://notionscapital.wordpress.com/2009/08/17/michael-vick-signed-to-nfl-amid-howling-controversy/
June Jones
August 17th, 2009
7:12 pm
Now that the Falcons have a top 10 back, a god OFFENSIVE LINE, and a hall a fame tight end can we resign Vick in 2 years and give him a chance instead of wanting him to be superman?…He took a team with Shawn Jefferson and Brian Finneran and won at Lambeau…He carried the Falcons, who had no offensive line, Roddy White was young, a 165 pound running back in Dunn, and an offensive coordinator who does not let his QBs call audibles..”Southern” people u can talk about what the man did but hell most of u probably cheat, smoke dope, do cocaine and whatever else so who are u to judge…but on the field, u people can kiss my rear end, Vick carried a team with no Defense and poor talent on offense for years and with the Eagles, he is finally surrounded around talent
VICK SUPPORTER 2
August 17th, 2009
10:22 pm
VICK DIDN’T EVEN STUDY THE PLAYBOOK OR PRACTICE HARD AND STILL WAS THE 1ST QB TO BEAT BRETT FAVRE AT LAMBEAU IN THE PLAYOFFS
THOSE OTHER DROP BACK QBS MUST BE STUPID
VICK SUPPORTER 2
August 17th, 2009
10:25 pm
DECEMBER 6TH IS GOING TO BE EMBARRASSING WHEN THERE ARE MORE NUMBER 7 JERSEYS IN THE DOME THAN ANY FALCON JERSEY
dl
August 17th, 2009
10:35 pm
VS2_you’re always going to be some POS buckwheat that will live and die in the ghetto, like a sewer ratt. Next time i’m in Atlanta, i’ll make sure to NOT give any of my spare change to a bum in the city because that bum is probably related to you. Yes I know, they’re “keeping it real”
Jay
August 17th, 2009
11:33 pm
DL what has bum got to do with it? It’s people like you that is sick, making a statement like that. Real big of you! Be careful what you say about people, it could be you.
elizabeth
August 17th, 2009
11:45 pm
Really did you truly listen to the interview?! Michael Vick showed his true character on 60 minutes last night. He clearly indicated he did not feel guilty till he was in prison. Obviously, he would still be committing his deliberate, premeditated, cruel, ONGOING FOR 7 YEARS crimes. Also, although he caught himself (too late), he clearly revealed he found the “blood lust” of the atrocities exciting. And “he didn’t really understand it was wrong”?! Unless he never left his neighborhood, didn’t go to school, never watched tv or read a book, I don’t buy it. His crimes had malicious intent – unlike the the other crimes some of you people like to compare his too. And for those of you who say they were just dogs, perhaps you wouldn’t feel the same if you were blind and relied on a guide dog or if you were an epileptic and depended on a dog to detect and alert when you were going to have a seizure. Dogs assist mankind like no other animal. DOGS SAVE LIVES. Vick’s dogs had the potential to do this too. Visit lawdogsusa.org and you will see dogs of the same breed and Vick destroyed all the potential value his had and perverted their abilities. And this man is going to make 1.6 mil when most felons can’t find a job even at fast food place?! And the NFl is going to baby him with a mentor??! ridiculous and disgusting. The game will always be tainted for me.
elizabeth
August 18th, 2009
12:08 am
Michael Vick showed his true character on 60 minutes last night. He clearly indicated he did not feel guilty till he was in prison. Obviously, he would still be committing his deliberate, premeditated, cruel, ONGOING FOR 7 YEARS crimes. Also, although he caught himself (too late), he clearly revealed he found the “blood lust” of the atrocities exciting. And “he didn’t really understand it was wrong”?! Unless he never left his neighborhood, didn’t go to school, never watched tv or read a book, I don’t buy it. His crimes had malicious intent – unlike the the other crimes some of you people like to compare his too. And for those of you who say they were just dogs, perhaps you wouldn’t feel the same if you were blind and relied on a guide dog or if you were an epileptic and depended on a dog to detect and alert when you were going to have a seizure. Dogs assist mankind like no other animal. DOGS SAVE LIVES. Vick’s dogs had the potential to do this too. Visit lawdogsusa.org and you will see dogs of the same breed and Vick destroyed all the potential value his had and perverted their abilities. And this man is going to make 1.6 mil when most felons can’t find a job even at fast food place?! And the NFl is going to baby him with a mentor??! ridiculous and disgusting. The game will always be tainted for me.
dl
August 18th, 2009
8:31 am
Jay, those bums have the same attitude as those vick defenders. The world owes me this and that. Take ownership of you life. You are right, those bums could be me, if I decide to give up on hardwork and pulling myself up by my bootstraps. You see, i won’t let “the man keep me down”. Jay-You be careful what you say and think of people. Oh, let me guess the truth hurts, ARE YOU A BUM?
ConVick
August 18th, 2009
9:10 am
Man this is all just too dad gum funny. All you Vick supporters kill me. What did he do to justify how you worship him? NEWS FLASH, He wasnt that great. Was he fun to watch? Sure. I will given you that. But will he ever take any team to the superbowl? Hell no. He doesnt have the brain to match his skills. He can’t think, and once out of the pocket he just runs for his life. And as far as you loosers becoming Eagle fans now, because of Vick, So what, your no loss to us. You were never falcon fans anyway.
And I for one hope you all show up in force on December 6th. So I can watch everyone of you with your green $80 jersey crying on the way back to Marta.
And even if the Eagles come down here and happen to beat us, it won’t be because of conVick. He will either be serving gatoraid to the real QB, holding a clipboard, keeping that bench warm, or more then likely serving another suspension for doing something stupid! It’s in his nature and jail time didnt change that. He will hook up with his hood friends again, and he will get nailed again. Bet on it!
Crow
August 18th, 2009
10:23 am
James – I don’t see how this has anything to do with being black, white, blue or purple. Vick was a thug. Define it how you will, but he was a thug. He MIGHT not be anymore… but only time will tell. Let’s not get destracted with the race card that is too often used as a diversion to the real issues these days.
June Jones
August 18th, 2009
10:32 am
Crow, 10:23 am
Just face it, this is the most racist thing i have seen in a while dude, what the hell have we done for you all to hate us so bad? It has to be more than just skin color right? Just wondering..Most of the people on this blog probaly cheat on the wife,smoke weed, smoke dope,and whatever else.. the diffrence is he got caught…
Crow
August 18th, 2009
10:35 am
Slow Roller – “pot addict”? Wow, dude. You have no clue. That is an entirely different topic. I’m gonna go ahead and throw out there that pot is right behind “ingrown toenail” on Mike Vick’s problem sheet. Educate yourself on a subject before you sound stupid or somethin…
Crow
August 18th, 2009
10:45 am
Once again, I don’t see how this has anything to do with race. Its very discouraging to me that if you don’t think he is remorseful, or (heaven forbid) you think he deserved to go to jail then you are labeled as a racist. He broke the law. He went to jail. And prison isn’t exactly a 12 step program for reform, so I can see why some people might be skeptical.
Crow
August 18th, 2009
10:50 am
But, yes… some of the comments above are on the other side of the line and pretty antagonistic. They do seem, however, to be aimed at Vick only and not a blanket statement for an entire race of people. So in that since they are just pointing out what Vick has made himself out to be… aviolent, untrustworthy person.
VICK SUPPORTER 2
August 18th, 2009
11:51 am
DECEMBER 6 – YOU WILL SEE JUST HOW BAD VICK IS
Joe Flacco
August 18th, 2009
11:58 am
Hey Matty, when are you going to win a playoff game?
Montrell
August 18th, 2009
7:28 pm
Michael did his time in prison—the racist people in the NFL need to quit making such a big deal out of this and let him play right away, instead of this suspension for 4 games. If he was white, he wouldn’t have been suspended at all! The NFL needs to free Mike Vick!!!!