The Falcons need a test, and they’ll get one in New England
The maligned Chris Houston makes his massive interception. (AJC photo by Curtis Compton)
They’re 2-0, having won twice against teams that made the playoffs last season. They’re 2-0 and they’ve trailed for only 16 minutes and 20 seconds of the season’s first two hours. They’re 2-0 and they’re looking really good again, but still they need something. And that something sits about 40 minutes south of Boston.
Chris Houston: “We’re ready.”
Mike Peterson: “We’re up for the test.”
The Patriots are the gold standard of 21st Century football. The Falcons are the team that, having worked in two different centuries, still hasn’t achieved consecutive winning seasons. But that’s about to change. These guys are up for anything. This a franchise that, for the first time in its existence, is moving from strength to strength.
Michael Turner: “We’re trying to do something special here.”
The Falcons did special things against Carolina on Sunday — Matt Ryan completed 13 consecutive passes and Turner trampled out 105 yards and Houston made a game-changing interception and Brian Finneran, of all people, helped thwart a game-ending Hail Mary — but the result didn’t feel at all extraordinary. It felt as if a good team had again taken care of business.
Tony Gonzalez: “The great thing about this was that it was a total team effort. There wasn’t one guy dominating.”
Although the new guy came close. Ryan threw seven times to Gonzalez. He completed all seven passes, one of them for a touchdown, another for the greatest one-handed-grab-while-being-interfered-with in NFL history. Gonzalez completes this offense. And the defense, which had some iffy moments Sunday, nonetheless made the required stops.
Houston: “The coach [Mike Smith] has done a great job of keeping us working. He never lets us think too highly of ourselves.”
At the same time, Smitty and staff don’t undersell the potential inherent in this roster. The Falcons no longer view themselves as underdogs. They were 11-5 last season and they’re 2-0 now. They’ve stepped up in class. And that’s why the weekend in New England comes at such a propitious moment.
Loading ...Gonzalez: “Any time you go up against Tom Brady and [Laurence] Maroney, especially in New England, that’s going to be a test. And really, that’s something we need.”
Yes. The Falcons have come so far so fast as to have rendered those of us on the periphery without bearings. Are they really one of the 10 best teams in pro football? One of the five best? Have we already passed the point where we half-expect them to backslide after their rousing 2008 season? Can they stand toe to toe with Brady and Randy Moss and Kevin Faulk and Wes Welker for two, three, four quarters.
We know now that the 2009 Falcons could absorb a big effort from a division opponent and still win. “There was a lot of good football played out there,” Smith said afterward, and there was. Jake Delhomme did not fall to pieces. Steve Smith did not lose his mind. The Panthers started nicely and finished with a rush. And still they lost.
Next up: New England. “You know you’re dealing with a veteran team, a team used to winning,” said Peterson, who forced his third turnover of 2009 Sunday. But Peterson’s new team is itself getting accustomed to smiling on Sunday. And the nicest part is that the Falcons, who are turning into something of undeniable merit, aren’t at all impressed.
Peterson: “We’re taking it one at a time, trying to pile up as many wins as we can string together.”
Here he smiled. “And we’re 2-0,” he said.
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163 comments Add your comment
Panties in a wad
September 20th, 2009
5:58 pm
The Patriots got old and dont scare anyone anymore.
Panties in a wad
September 20th, 2009
5:59 pm
The Falcons arent going up there to kiss their rings either. No cheating = no edge also. Right, Bilicheat?
David
September 20th, 2009
6:01 pm
Go Falcons. Great game today. It seems more and more like the guy we’re watching quarterback our team is soon going to be mentioned in the same sentence as Manning, Montana and Brady. It’s remarkable how far this team has come since Vick went to prison and Petrino skipped town to Arkansas. Great game, Falcons — steal one next week.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
6:03 pm
It is remarkable, David. It beggars belief.
Bob in SF
September 20th, 2009
6:09 pm
And the Panthers last TD should have never counted. There is going to be some huge call made over the whole “control to the ground” issue this year.
t larry
September 20th, 2009
6:09 pm
Good article MB. Next week should be fun and a good test. TG is the real deal, just need the D to keep coming together.
GO FALCONS !!!!!!!!!!!
jimbob
September 20th, 2009
6:14 pm
is ‘control to the ground’ something new? it always used to be ‘break the plane’. Once the plane was broken, it doesn’t matter what happens thereafter. Either way, it looked like he had the ball until his elbows hit the ground.
Flint
September 20th, 2009
6:15 pm
Great article, Mark. I’m looking forward to next week because the game should really test our meddle.
I’m also quite excited about this season’s start! A buddy and I were talking about our schedule, and how it looked quite plausible that we’d start the season 1-3 (after watching our defense in the preseason.) But now, I don’t think a 4-0 start is out of the question. Certainly 3-1!
Already casting my gaze toward the future, though… is anyone else as freaked out by New Orleans as I am?!
BugKiller
September 20th, 2009
6:19 pm
I wonder how old Noodle Arm is going to do against old 6th Round Draft Pick?
Should be a boring game.
Hehehehe.
Kevin
September 20th, 2009
6:23 pm
I lived in Atlanta for 20 years and sulked through 20 years as a Falcons fan. I made myself watch every game.
I moved to the Northeast a little over a year ago. Of course, during this time, the Falcons become a great team. Now I CAN’T watch the Falcons because they don’t show the games.
Rockaby
September 20th, 2009
6:23 pm
Keys to to the Game is keep the Ball Out of Brady hands and score with long drives.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
6:25 pm
You know, JimBob, I still haven’t grasped the Tuck Rule, let alone the Control Rule.
Chaseolla
September 20th, 2009
6:29 pm
Good article Mark, can’t wait to hear all the talk about TOM BRADY(yeah I can along w/anchez..) while we Take Care Business, fly under the radar. Whoever has the last possession will win .
Falcons 3-0 and break. What’s up w/ Jerry?
Maxx
September 20th, 2009
6:31 pm
Rosario never had posession. I expect Matt Ryan to have his best game of the season next week
Charlie
September 20th, 2009
6:31 pm
In regards to the last Carolina TD, it appeard that he never really pulled the ball in, it was on his fingertips the entire time. However, it was not evidence enough to overturn the call.
Charlie
September 20th, 2009
6:32 pm
I am just glad New England pulled it off in Buffalo, 0-2 New England would not be a team you want to play.
shawn
September 20th, 2009
6:33 pm
Wow. exciting, that last play was closer than I like to of seen. What is Peria Jerry status Mark? TG is showing me why he is the greatest TE ever, he doesn’t drop a pass, and if he does its pass interference. Bring on NE. I’m into espn power rankings and I think a win in NE give us the number two slot despite there loss today
Matt is the Truth
In Dimitroff and Smith We Trust
A biased season ticket holder
Go Falcons
Maxx
September 20th, 2009
6:34 pm
Kevin- I grew up in Atlanta and have been a Falcons fan since birth. I live in Arizona now and I go to local sports bars every Sunday to watch the birds and I never miss a snap
drew
September 20th, 2009
6:38 pm
We’ve taken care of the Panties, now bring on the Patsies!
And where’s that dunbazz Bad News? Still licking Vick’s jock strap I guess. What a DUMBAZZ! Good game “noodle arm”. Bwah!!!!
DAVID
September 20th, 2009
6:41 pm
I see the Falcons and Carolina turning into a rivalry good game…These aren’t the Patriots of old, their defense and running game is suspect, it won’t be a easy game but I expect us to win… TAKE IT ONE GAME AT A TIME….
dawglover
September 20th, 2009
6:45 pm
I’m the guy whose dad passed 9-10 after a hell of a battle with cancer. That weekend Tech, dawgs, and the falcons won. Braves swept the Cards. He lived here his whole life and loved all sports. I’m pulling for daddy carma this year. He loved the coons most of all. GO FALCONS!!!. Let’s kick around the has been Patriots. By the way everyone call your dad tonight, if you can.
"Chef" Tim Dix
September 20th, 2009
6:51 pm
Probably not a requirement next week in Foxboro (BTW, is Foxboro the Mass. equivilent to Jonesboro?), but more “Beerman” sightings would certainly help the cuase.
Greg Mendel
September 20th, 2009
6:59 pm
I’m going to be in Paris during next week’s game. After today’s game, I’ve thought of canceling the trip. New England may be too much for our young defense. (I don’t know why Carolina did anything but run today.)
Still, the Birds have shown they can play with anybody in the league. Even if they lose, the other team will know it was in a brawl (I almost said “dogfight”). It’s gonna be a tough season, but I’ve followed them since 1966, and they’ve finally gotten to the point that big wins aren’t flukes.
The best combo on the Falcons team — and maybe in the NFL — is Blank-Dimitroff-Smith (and Ryan).
Coop
September 20th, 2009
7:02 pm
Gonna have to do better on D to get a win next week.
Invictus Mon
September 20th, 2009
7:08 pm
I have to say that I was impressed with the offense today. Just solid work up and down. The defense scares me a bit. I’m excited to see how it holds (or how far it bends) when it comes up against the league’s most explosive offenses. For my own edification, does New England’s offense still count as such or is it just the Tom Brady show?
Sage of Bluesland
September 20th, 2009
7:08 pm
Thank goodness our defense is finally being led by a competent linebacker who actually makes an impact on the game (Peterson)…The previous fraud (Brooking) did more community-garbage and off-field things than anything actually ON the field.
Addition-by-Subtraction! The defense is finally fraud-free!
dawglover
September 20th, 2009
7:15 pm
I’m the guy whose dad passed on 6-10 after a hell of a battle with cancer. Dogs, Tech, and the falcons won that weekend. Braves swept the Cards. Could be some daddy carma working this year. Lived here his whole life and loved the falcons best of all. GO FALCONS!!! Kick the overated Pats around. Any everyone who can call your dad tonight.
MikeyD
September 20th, 2009
7:18 pm
The defense is fraud-free with the exception of its coordinator.
VanGoofball is the luckiest moron in the league. Smith does all the work and he gets all of the undeserved credit.
Check how much better the d is playing since the real season began and Smith inserted himself more firmly into game planning on the defensive side.
Barry
September 20th, 2009
7:22 pm
Hey Y’all:
ONE GAME AT A TIME. ONE GAME AT A TIME. The “PROCESS” continues. These FAlCONS are for real, and they will show us “ONE GAME AT A TIME.” THEY WILL DO THIS IS “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”. These guys are playing “STRONGER” and “STRONGER” each week, on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. The special teams are playing great!! They are all playing “TOGETHER” like “ONE HEARTBEAT!!”. The beat is getting stronger. Can you hear it? Can you hear it? THUMP!!THUMP!!! THUMP!!! THUMP!!!!!……Boy, soon I will have to put my hands on my ears since it is getting so “LOUD”.
GO FALCONS!!! KICK THAT PATRIOT BUTT!!!! DO IT IN “ONE HEARTBEAT!!”:THUMP!!
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
………………………”ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!!……………….
Cocktail Cove
September 20th, 2009
7:22 pm
We covered…Every week is the same thing. Dolphins will be an early test. Carolina, divition winner last year, will be looking for retribution for big lose. New England the untimate test of success after two wins following a play-off year.
GIVE ME A BREAK!!!
New England is the one that has something to prove if you ask me. If you dont ask me then you dont have a clue about this team.
Sec 229 Row 6 seat 9
Tim Hall
September 20th, 2009
7:23 pm
Those uniforms look like a professional football team!!!
Bring them back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get rid of those ugly arena league uniforms!!!
Trevor
September 20th, 2009
7:25 pm
Im still really worried about the Houston vs Moss matchup…I’m sort of hoping Moss comes down with the Swine Flu or something.
BraveCat
September 20th, 2009
7:28 pm
come on Markie. what kind of choice is that in your poll?!?!?!? As a Braves fan, who just happens to like the Falcons, I just have to laugh @ you sports writers. You get the best seats, the perks, and you still mess w/ the fans. Shaking my head @ you and Schultz. I miss Terrance Moore right now. I guess you hate living in the ATL. Move to NY. Isn’t that what life is all about. Just ask the stupid ESPN idiots.
eddiedawg
September 20th, 2009
7:28 pm
Bad News is a moron. Why does he continue to call Ryan “noodle arm”?? I think it is because he sleeps with a Vick Fathead.
That being said-bring on NE. This team (Atl) has showed some real moxie, and our defense will improve each week. Today was a classic “trap” game and we survived. BTW those uni’s looked great-we exorcised some demons.
Mark-Give us a P Jerry status-we need him.
Todd - Dacula
September 20th, 2009
7:32 pm
Hey David, Mike Vick had nothing to do with the Falcons failures, it was lack of overall talent. As a Falcon Fan and a Vick fan and supported, I want the best for both. I feel that teh Falcons Fans are better served to move on from the Vick situation, much like the Falcon organization has done. There are no excuses and polacing, whatever degree of blame, on Mike Vick does not put wins in the win column. I believe Mr. Vick put a lot of effort in leading the team. His misdeeds had nothing to do with football or the Falcons.
Brad in Jasper
September 20th, 2009
7:35 pm
Doesn’t look good, esp. when the big men fall (ask Sturdivant). Lot of weight on those lower limbs. Keepin our fingers crossed for ya, big guy.
Jerry’s injury a big concern for Falcons
September 20, 2009 7:02 PM
Posted by ESPN.com’s Pat Yasinskas
I had the pleasure of covering the Carolina-Atlanta game with ESPN.com colleague Len Pasquarelli. Since my background includes a lengthy stint as a beat writer covering Carolina, and Len’s includes an even longer stint as a beat writer covering the Falcons, we stayed true to that in our postgame columns. I wrote about Jake Delhomme and Carolina and Len wrote about Matt Ryan and Atlanta.
But there’s one thing on the Falcons I want to bring up here because it could be hugely significant. The injury to Atlanta rookie defensive tackle Peria Jerry did not appear to be a small one. It looked bad at the time and I’ve even heard some rumblings that Atlanta’s pro personnel staff already is looking at available defensive tackles (ask the Panthers, there’s not much out there right now).
We should get stronger word on Jerry’s injury on Monday, but I don’t think I’m going out on a limb by projecting that he’s at least going to miss some time. This is a major concern because Jerry was off to a nice start.
With Thomas Johnson and Trey Lewis as the backup defensive tackles, the Falcons aren’t exactly loaded at this position.
Jeremy Bowen
September 20th, 2009
7:38 pm
A secret from a drunk Falcons fan. I love my co_ns. and go da_wgs
FalconDawg
September 20th, 2009
7:38 pm
Trevor, I absolute agree with you. Our defensive backs are going to have a hard time with N.E’s receivers. I only hope we can generate more of a pass rush than we did today so Brady won’t be able to sit in the pocket and pick off our dbs’.
BufordDawg
September 20th, 2009
7:39 pm
I love watching this team. Tony Gonzalez and Peterson were great pickups. I love the style of football this team plays. It’s great to be a Falcons fan again!
dvj
September 20th, 2009
7:40 pm
please don’t wear those uniform again, it bring back losing thoughts again….
ALB FALCON
September 20th, 2009
7:44 pm
Tuner got it going today! He will be an important part come next Sunday. I hope Norwood is okay, but sneling came in and show that we actually have a three headed monster at running back! GO FALCONS!!
Lowcountry Bulldawg
September 20th, 2009
7:47 pm
Whats tough to believe as a Falcon fan is that with such diversity on offense, we have perhaps the BEST offense in the entire NFL. That is hard to believe, but with Ryan at QB nothing seems to be out of reach for this team. The Falcons seem to be loaded with weapons.
glc3md
September 20th, 2009
7:48 pm
As as Falcons fan since the beginning, I have suffered through a lot of terrible events. Last year and the first two games this year give me hope. One game at a time. Matty Ice is a great student of the game. As a retired orthopod the violence of the NFL game which terrifies me is balanced by the incredible skill of hundreds of these guys. We have a great GM and a great coach. We have some very fine players. For the first time ever, I have real hope for a solid NFC champ who could win it all with a break or two.
Ted Striker
September 20th, 2009
7:49 pm
My hero, esteemed journalist Mark Bradley has raised the possibility that the Falcons are perhaps a top 10 team — and I believe they are.
Disclosure: Mark didn’t actually SAY they’re a top 10 team, he simply mentioned the idea as a hypothetical for readers to decide themselves.
(Expert journalists occasionally do thangs like that — verbal hedges or hypothetical questions — especially if they recently picked Tech to beat Miami or something).
Top teams aside, Pats win and Falcons lose. Home field advantage. Hope I’m wrong.
G-Man
September 20th, 2009
7:50 pm
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves Georgia Fans!!! Remember the 2008 Bulldogs? Expectations are high (as they should be), however, the true accomplishment will be finishing this season with a winning record, and making it past to the first round of the playoffs. Yes, these two victories are high and gives us tremendous momentum, which we’ll need going up to FoxBoro were our beloved Falcons won’t be able to hear themselves think. I foresee Mr. Bill employing the same tactics as Arizona did last year in the playoffs. It will be the greatest challenge of the season, because New England is looking for identity, and it just might be at our expense. Hopefully, we’ll go up their and come back victorious. If not, we’ll have a monsterous game, and continue to build upon that. We have a brutal schedule this season and alot of football left, and no one can be taken lightly, underestimated, and/or overlooked. These two wins were an absolute must. Go Falcons! Truly, this game scares me, but it’s a much needed test. These Falcons are the real deal, but so are the Patroits, the Giants, the Saints (two times this year), the Cowboys…. you get the picture! Matt, Roddy, both Mike(s), and Tony will have to have an impeccable game, not to mention someone stepping up (Michael Jenkins) to have a chance to win. I don’t know about this one guys……
eastbound and down
September 20th, 2009
7:50 pm
i remember when the falcons went 12-4 in 80 and started the next season 3-1. AJC headline, “a city on fire!” well, that team had a key injury and the rest of the season was in ashes. so, this team has a long way to go. i also hate the prevent defense. way to almost lose the game, MikeyD is right.
Sumit
September 20th, 2009
7:59 pm
We got Trey Lewis as a DT… Vance Walker on PS… I think we have enough depth at DT position… if it comes to Worse case scenario.. JA98 could play DT.. he’s 290+ lbs lazy @$$
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
8:00 pm
I say again: I wouldn’t expect Jerry back soon. I really shouldn’t speculate beyond saying that.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
8:01 pm
Norwood, I think, will be OK, maybe for next week. But that’s me speculating once more.
Rod
September 20th, 2009
8:03 pm
Bradley, you need to pay closer attention or get glasses. Finneran knocked down that pass at the end of the first half. HOWEVER, he did NOT knock down that pass at the end of the game. The DB – #20 (forgot his name) knocked that one down (actually, he poorly swatted it up instead), but it wasn’t Finneran. Shouldn’t a sportswriter know the details?
Mar
September 20th, 2009
8:08 pm
I believe next week will be an offensive show from both teams. I believe both teams will be throwing it around … a lot. I believe the Falcons have more weapons overall than the Pats on O, with that said….. Falcons – 33 / Pats – 30
MiltonDawg
September 20th, 2009
8:09 pm
MB- good stuff. was at the game, and you can tell the fans are feeling the same way about where the team is heading. hopefully Peria will be about 2-3 weeks w/ injury. D gave up too many big plays. need to tighten up, made Delhomme look like a heisman today.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
8:17 pm
Thanks, Milton.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
8:19 pm
And I note that 71 percent of our poll voters think the Falcons will win in Foxborough. I’m a little suprised. I myself voted for “lose honorably.”
"Homteam" Brandon Leak
September 20th, 2009
8:23 pm
You are right Mark, it should be a great test but the Falcons look like they are ready. The Patriots should be 0-2. Leodis McKelvin’s fumble is the only reason they are not winless, and they failed to score an offensive TD against the Jets. The Falcons wanted to work on the running game they did.
The Falcons are dominating in time of possession in the 2nd half of games. Play keep away is what I say (same formula for the Saints).
The Falcons beat two teams that had at least 11 wins last year, two teams that won their divisions, and two teams with something to prove. New England has a test too. Go Falcons.
"Hometeam" Brandon Leak
September 20th, 2009
8:24 pm
Enter your cYou are right it should be a great test but the Falcons look like they are ready. The Patriots should be 0-2. Leodis McKelvin’s fumble is the only reason they are not winless, and they failed to score an offensive Td against the Jets. The Falcons wanted to work on the running game they did.
The Falcons are dominating in time of possession in the 2nd half of games. Play keep away is what I say (same formula for the Saints).
The Falcons beat two teams that had at least 11 wins last year, two teams that won their divisions, and two teams with something to prove. New England has a test too. Go Falcons.
omments here
Tom
September 20th, 2009
8:25 pm
This may be the greatest of all teams. But when you were a teen in the 60’s, players like Claude Humphrey, John Zook, Kent Reeves, Jim Mitchell, and Tommy Nobis were underdog heros. Hey, Bob Berry had some exciting games too. It was fun to be a wide-eyed fan then too.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
8:27 pm
I hear that, Tom.
Atl Resident
September 20th, 2009
8:29 pm
I’m with Bradley on this one, gotta beat New England up there, if they do that this team is for real this season.
Waycross
September 20th, 2009
8:30 pm
What a great weekend!!! Both my home teams put up a W. Not going to think about next weekend yet, just going to enjoy this for a couple more hours.
Michael
September 20th, 2009
8:30 pm
First!
Michael
September 20th, 2009
8:31 pm
Dang. Soooooooo not first.
Dr Henry/ augusta
September 20th, 2009
8:31 pm
Regardless of how this team goes thru the season it is a T E A M… Guys coming off the bench and contributing (Snelling)….Former No. 1 receiver B. Finneran playing pass defense and contributing….This should be a fun year.
Navigator
September 20th, 2009
8:33 pm
I agree that the Falcons need a test (on the road), but don’t forget that they just beat two teams with 11-5 and 12-4 records last year. The South Conference is the second best in the National Conference, so striving a 11-5 record this year could get them back into the playoffs. Everyone jumped on the defense’s bandwagon last week, but their pass defense is and was suspect. When they can’t rush the QB, their in trouble as they were today.
Wesley Wallace
September 20th, 2009
8:41 pm
I was worried the old uniform would curse us, as it has all of the previous Falcons teams that wore it.
AtlantaFan
September 20th, 2009
9:14 pm
All the Falcons have to do is watch video of what the Jets did today. Make adjustments because the Patriots are going to adjust and get in for the win and get out!
Togar White Shoes
September 20th, 2009
9:14 pm
Jerry was injury prone in college, and has proven to be so in the pros as well. I’m really starting to question whether he will ever have a full, productive career. The talent’s there, but means nothing if he’s in the training room.
FranktheFalcon
September 20th, 2009
9:18 pm
Great win Falcons!!! When we go to New England, we have got to get more pressure on the QB or we are in trouble. Moss against our defensive backs is a total mismatch. If Brady consistantly has time to throw, they will score at least 35 points on us. On the other hand, I think our offense can score 35 on them. Turnovers, and where they occur on the field, will determine the winner! The good news is that we are in the ballgame with any team in the NFL and can beat any of them on a given day. I am so proud of our Falcons and where this franchise is headed! I look forward to watching them every week! GO FALCONS!!!
TH
September 20th, 2009
9:23 pm
Great win, offense was solid. Rushing defense still needs some work, hope that Jerry’s knee isn’t too serious. One observation today, I thought Michael Turner looked a little slow hitting the holes at times today, glad Snelling was their to get some reps. Go Falcons!
sullyzz
September 20th, 2009
9:27 pm
I love those red helmets! I miss them!
Free Mike Vick
September 20th, 2009
9:28 pm
Man, Ryan was horrible today……Do you all miss Vick yet?
LRD
September 20th, 2009
9:36 pm
Do hope Jenkins steps up in Foxboro… and Tony G.. wow..wow..wow.
Dbacks are still suspect. but the LB crew is really starting to gell.
So many weapons on offense now.
Sonny Clusters
September 20th, 2009
9:36 pm
Clusters would tell you that losing is losing and they is nothing honorable about losing if you can win. When we was playing ball we did not lose. Losing was for the other team. Clusters have always been on good teams that won. We was hoping something might still happen to let us play some ball.
cdog
September 20th, 2009
9:44 pm
THE PATRIOTS CAN’T STOP THE FALCONS OFFENSE, THE DEFENSE OF THE FALCONS WILL RISE AND DOMINANT THE GAME. IT WON’T BE NO CONTEST. THE FALCONS WILL WIN GOING AWAY BY AT LEAST 3 TOUCHDOWNS.THE NEW ENGLAND MYSTIC IS OVER.
panic
September 20th, 2009
9:48 pm
i remember last yrs game against brady and company we beat them for a half then got out coached in 2nd half we have better chance this yr with better all around team,understanding of what we need to do to get the win and yes chris houston looks 2 steps past lost till the pick off at the end .time for this team to
step up and prove to themselves the hard work pays off in the win column.
Big Ray
September 20th, 2009
9:53 pm
I’d love to see us beat the Patriots, and we CAN do it. I’m expecting a close loss, and hoping for a win. Hope I’m wrong in regard to my expectations.
Oh, and since JOE FLACCO’S BIGGEST FAN failed to mention it, here are today’s numbers:
“Noodle Arm”: 21 for 27, 220 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception.
Joe Flacco: 17 for 26, 190 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception.
kurula
September 20th, 2009
9:58 pm
i think that it is a testament to how far the falcons have come that everyone is already looking to next week and aren’t really wasting time celebrating this ‘ho-hum’ victory. i think the ‘business as usual’ approach is how you can tell if a team is special. a win next week would be great, but only if they walk away just as hungry for the next win and don’t get caught up in winning. it’s not the superbowl. that being said, if they lose the game, it’s about their attitude afterward. do they get down, or do they get over the loss as quickly as they look past the win? so far the attitude tells me they have reached the next level.
Eric
September 20th, 2009
9:59 pm
Don’t be crazy New England still has an OFFENSE!!! It will be a shoot-out next week, the Falcons have a chance because the Patriots lost to many Vets on defense.
An Observation
September 20th, 2009
10:12 pm
I love it when these “yoyo’s” come on the Falcons’ blog and state how it is so good to be a Falcons’ fan AGAIN. Hell…if you were a fan in the first place, you wouldn’t have gotten off the bandwagon before. A “REAL FAN” is one that supports their preferred team through good and bad times.
With that said….I am excited with the way this team plays as a cohesive unit. New England has shown that they can be beat so I’m predicting that the Falcons’ will give them a good game next Sunday and come out the winners. GO FALCONS!!!!
sportaree
September 20th, 2009
10:17 pm
Referee-General oversight and control of game. Gives signals for all fouls and is final authority for rule interpretations…Primarily responsible to rule on possible roughing action on passer (and if ball becomes loose, rules whether ball is free on a fumble or dead on an incomplete pass.) Back judge- Takes a position 25 yards downfield…(is responsible to rule on plays involving end line.) Field judge- makes decisions involving catching….(rules on plays involving pass receiver,including legality of catch.) Now it’s hard to believe those guys made the wrong call and gave Carolina that touchdown, The end zone has four sides-goal line, left side, right side and the back.If a player catches a ball in the endzone, fails to maintain control of the ball and goes out of bounds,its not a touchdown, but if the ball crosses the goal line and the player fails to maintain control of the ball it is a touchdown. If I had a red flag , I would throw it at the NFL rules committee.
Thomas
September 20th, 2009
10:30 pm
Great read, Mark.
I enjoy your complex 5 word sentences and sarcastic remarks.
Beautiful eloquent writing
BostonBCfan
September 20th, 2009
10:40 pm
Well Falcon fans I must admit it was a tough weekend for Pats and BC football this weekend. I knew BC’s non-existent offense would be exposed against a really good Clemson team. But, they’re young and have to find a QB. (Too bad Matt had to graduate) At least they still got a decent defense, as usual.
And watching Brady be so off with his game timing today was tough, although a lot of that had to do with the jets pass rush (I hate to admit it but they were relentless) but it was painfully obvious Brady’s timing is way off as they were lucky to beat Buffalo last week. Hey, he hasn’t played under real game conditions for a year and it takes time to get that game timing back so hopefully he gets better before next week but the falcons and Matt Ryan scare the hell out of me. I think the falcons have a great shot of beating the Pats but it is going to take a monumental effort on the part of the falcons secondary because I promise you Brady won’t be as bad as he was today. It should be a heck of a game.
Since I’ve rooted for and been a huge fan of Matt Ryan for years (for obvious reasons) it’s going to be tough not to root for him and the falcons next week. My heart is still obviously with the Pats but it is so much fun watching Matty continue his great QB play in the NFL now. And since my daughter lives in Atlanta now and went to BC with Matt that gives me a couple of good reasons to root for the falcons I guess. So, falcon fans here, don’t be to hahd (that’s hard for you southerners) on this Boston boy. Later
Green Tea
September 20th, 2009
10:46 pm
Drove down from Charlotte for the game. Before I moved up had season tix for years in section 108. Sat in 123 today. Glad everyone sat on their hands for the entire 2nd half. Reminded me of Panther fans…
BugKiller
September 20th, 2009
10:49 pm
Thomas,
Don’t you mean:
Beautifully eloquent writing?
or perhaps
Beautiful, eloquent writing?
Watch out that you check your own grammar and sentence structure before you call out someone else.
Jackass.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
10:55 pm
Thanks for the defense, BugKiller. But don’t feel impelled on my behalf. I’m impervious. (Two-word sentence.)
Sara
September 20th, 2009
10:58 pm
@Greg Mendel: Take your trip to Paris! I live in Austria and my (almost) husband has purchased the NFL GamePass which allows us to see the games online in real time! (You can purchase it for one game or for the whole season.) He’s native Austrian and doesn’t know a touchdown from a touchback, but I’m teaching him the ropes, and he’s enjoying the games! I don’t know what I’d do without my NFL fix!
Anyway, our wedding is this coming Saturday, and my honey said, “Guess what we’re doing this Sunday?” (aside from, you know, the obvious.) I said, “What?” He said, “Watching the Falcons, silly! I won’t deny you that!” I had been talking about letting the game go since, you know, it’s our honeymoon! But my man won’t deny me New England… even he knows that it’s going to be one heck of a game!
Go Falcons!! And it is great to read this article and the comments here to get a taste of America. I may have moved on to a new continent, but the Falcons are sure coming with me!
JASon
September 20th, 2009
11:00 pm
Great win today! Carolina is no slouch.
If Welker is hurt, this could be a long season for the Pats. They’ve already lost Mayo and (traded) veteran Seymour. Keep in mind they shouldn’t have won the Buffalo game. But they will be hungry for a win next week. And you’re right, Mark, this is an opportunity for our defense to show they are for real.
drmondo
September 20th, 2009
11:01 pm
It was a great win. I love guys like Finneran who aren’t flashy but do whatever the team needs to win. He plays WR, special teams and now DB!! My family and I are headed to the game in Foxborough. I’d love to see them upset the Pats. If they can get pressure on Brady I think they can pull it off. NE doesn’t have a great running game and I’m not sure what Welker’s status will be (any idea Mark)? Go Falcons!!
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
11:03 pm
I mentioned Morris Stroud to Finneran afterward, DrMondo. Stroud was a 6-foot-10 tight end the Chiefs would put under the goal posts (which were then on the goal line) to jump away and swat away field goals that just eased over the bar. I never saw him do it; I just recall Hank Stram stationing him there.
I explained all this to Finneran. He’d never heard of Morris Stroud.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
11:04 pm
Finneran said the tallest player he’d ever seen was Harold Carmichael, who was 6-8, as I recall.
BugKiller
September 20th, 2009
11:06 pm
Haha. No prob. I got your back, Bradely.
That is, until you write a blog defending Willie Martinez.
Which means you’ve:
1) Gone insane
2) Been replaced by the body snatchers
3) Are desperate for the page views crazy-angry Georgia fans can only bring.
Hahaha.
Wozzeck
September 20th, 2009
11:06 pm
So I just noticed 6 of our next 8 games are on the road. Ouch. Well, split on the road, win at home I hope which would make for a 5-3 strech to bring us to 7 and 3.
Top Cat
September 20th, 2009
11:06 pm
Nice win today, but Jerry’s injury could be impactful…Entire O looked good, though run game was slow to start…D had some issues…must improve on D if we are to make 10-6 or better…I actually enjoyed the throw backs, the team looked good!…Tighten up the D backfield, and the run defense and we can play with anybody!…Go Birds!!!
homerfans
September 20th, 2009
11:20 pm
Falcons win 2 games against subpar teams and now all of a sudden their fans think that they can go into Foxboro and get a win. Typical Falcons homers. Get used to hearing, “Brady to Moss..TOUCHDOWN!!” next Sunday.
FalconsRule
September 20th, 2009
11:33 pm
New england’s old and washed up—they lost to a mediocre Jets team. The Falcons are the new chief in the NFL—they will beat the patriots easy—mark it down.
Mark Bradley
September 20th, 2009
11:55 pm
I’m not going to defend Willie Martinez, BK.
Falcon Fan thru and thru
September 21st, 2009
12:00 am
Thanks Mark for picking the Patriots ! That means a sure win for the Falcons !!! Yessss
crabapplejoe
September 21st, 2009
12:01 am
I don’t like our chances coming off an NE loss….wish they had won today. They did not have Wes Welker in the lineup who has caught more passes than anyone in the NFL the last two seasons….if he’s out next week I expect a Falcon win.
tree rollins
September 21st, 2009
12:02 am
Patriots will be out for serious payback at home against the Falcons after their surprise loss to NY Jets today. They will be ready to give everything they have to stop the slide. Won’t be much the Falcons can do against Brady with his ability to pinpoint his passes. There was not much rush against Carolina from the D-line today and on top of that we lost Jerry.
Atl Resident
September 21st, 2009
12:02 am
I didnt realize the defense gave up over 400 yards against Carolina. That’s got to get better, if not fast, real soon.