Is Matt Ryan’s first slump just a momentary downturn?
Matty Ice on a night that turned out not so nice. (Michael DeMocker/Times-Picayune)
We begin by stipulating that Matt Ryan established a ridiculously high standard in a ridiculously short time. He was the greatest rookie quarterback the NFL has seen — better than Marino, better than Big Ben — and there seems no reason he won’t develop into a truly great quarterback soon. But here I borrow a favorite Ryan expression: “That said … ”
That said, he hasn’t been quite as good in Year 2 as in Year 1. Perhaps it’s because the Falcons have played a wicked schedule — the first soft game comes Sunday against Washington — but his numbers are down in virtually every category. And it isn’t just the numbers. For reasons unclear, Matty Ice doesn’t seem as cool.
After the Falcons lost in New Orleans, I asked Thomas Dimitroff, whose drafting of Ryan in 2008 changed the course of this franchise, if he’s concerned. “Absolutely not,” the GM said. “Defenses have been giving him different looks. But he’s been resilient; he has a short memory. I have all the faith in the world in Matt. We know the things he’s going to do will be positive.”
Same question to Mike Smith. “I’m not concerned at all,” the coach said. “We judge on 16 games, not one game or not three games. Statistically it hasn’t been his best [stretch of games], but we can’t make that judgment until the end of the season.”
To Ryan’s credit, he has the Falcons at 4-3. Given their schedule, they might well have started 3-4 or worse. But now we turn to those pesky numbers. Ryan is the NFL’s 18th-rated passer; he was 11th last season. His rating is 82.6; it was 87.7 last season. His completion percentage has dropped from 61.1 to 59.7, which isn’t a major decline, but he has thrown nine interceptions in seven games; last season he threw 11 in 16.
His receivers have failed him on occasion. Michael Jenkins dropped a cinch first down in the Superdome, and a diving Roddy White couldn’t hold a touchdown at the end line. But we should also note that Ryan in Year 2 has the considerable asset of Tony Gonzalez, and still the Falcons, sixth in the NFL in total offense in 2008, are 17th now.
Much of that has to do with the decline of the running game, but they got what they needed from Michael Turner (151 swift and powerful yards) on Monday night, and the beset defense didn’t play all that badly. The Falcons lost because of two interceptions: The first was returned for a touchdown at the end of the first half; the second came when the Falcons had a chance to nose ahead with 8 1/2 minutes left.
Loading ...Some fans contend neither was Ryan’s fault. White was bumped out of his route on the first throw and the second was deflected by Jonathan Vilma. But Ryan himself called the first interception “a poor decision on my part,” and on the second he had a clear view of Vilma downfield. He needed to get the ball over him. He did not.
Is it nit-picking to note that a second-year quarterback had his second-worst game — only Tampa Bay on Sept. 14, 2008, has yielded a lower rating — in a pressurized environment? Perhaps. “We say we like to evaluate ourselves at the end of a season,” Ryan said Monday, and the season does have nine games remaining.
Then this: “That said, I’ve got to play better. As a quarterback, I’ve got to protect the ball.”
He knows his position and accepts the responsibilities. He is, as ever, an impressive guy. The guess is that he’ll battle through this downturn and lead his team to the playoffs again. But these past three games have offered the first extended glimpse of an imprecise Ryan, and the effect has been jarring. We’ve already come to expect so much more.
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349 comments Add your comment
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:05 am
I told you fools
RedandBlack
November 4th, 2009
10:07 am
Ryan was forcing the ball in there a little bit this year, but he has had more pressure from defenses this year than last due to the lack of a consistent running game. Ryan is a competitor and a winner. He will be fine.
This schedule is a tough one too, and the defense has had too many holes to fill with young players. As long as the Falcons come out with a winning season in the end and somehow make the playoffs, then this 2009 season will go down as remarkable. The Falcons have NEVER had back to back winning seasons. These Falcons can do it. Go Falcons!!
DandyD
November 4th, 2009
10:07 am
Ryan will pull through. I’ve seen enough to believe he as “the stuff.” It’s the guy’s second year and most people are behaving like he’s supposed to come in performing miracles like levitating over the field and catching the ball for receivers. Look at history. How long did it take Peyton, Eli, Warner, Bradshaw, Staubach, Lamonica, to reach the heights we’re expecting of Ryan. He’s a year and change into a career with a team that two seasons ago could have qualified for a federal disaster relief fund. He’s fine. Had a couple of less than spectacular games on a team that is not upper echelon material yet. Such is life. Breathe and relax people.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:10 am
Mark
Ryan rookie year – 11-5
Flacco rookie year – 11-5
Ryan playoff record – 0-1
Flacco playoff record 2-1
Fast forward to 2009
Ryan 9 ints
Flacco 5 ints
Ryan QB RATING 82
Flacco QB RATING 95
Ryan rank 18th
Flacco rank 11th
Yeah Ryan was the better rookie and pick
If you really believe that, then it’s a good thing you are not a GM, because just like Dimitroff you are no Big Tuna
DandyD
November 4th, 2009
10:13 am
Choke-Dude what’s with the obsession of dogging Ryan? Did he rob or mug someone in your family? What’s your point aside from you think Ryan sucks. We get it. Man, move on to another topic, please. You’re getting boring on this blog.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:13 am
RedandBlack
November 4th, 2009
10:07 am
Ryan was forcing the ball in there a little bit this year, but he has had more pressure from defenses this year than last due to the lack of a consistent running game.
Turner is ranked 8th in the NFL in rushing. Ryan is ranked 18th. The running back is not the problem.
One could say the reason Turner is only ranked number 8, is because Ryan is ranked so low, so Turner might need a better passer so he will not have run against 9 in the box on every play.
Ted Striker
November 4th, 2009
10:15 am
Ryan doesn’t have the biggest arm, but he has enough arm. More importantly, he has the mental toughness, leadership and desire to succeed. Ints sometimes seem to come in a spate of games. Ryan is also a guy who could go 2-3 or more games without a crucial pick.
However the most important thing to remember about the Falcons and Matt Ryan is this: Football is a team sport. Ryan will usually be on, but it’s naive to think he will always be on. When your QB struggles, other players have to pick up the slack. That means blockers giving more time in the pocket, greater concentration and effort by receivers, special teams winning the field position battle, the defense making key stops. The Falcons do those things and they’ll be fine.
washedup
November 4th, 2009
10:16 am
He is, as you said, an impressive guy. . .and a very good quarterback. However, in the last two games, he has not had much time to find open receivers. I have absolutely no concerns about the qb position. Parts of the so-called “fan base” would not be happy with Ryan if he threw 10 td’s per game, and had a perfect passer rating. I’ve been a season ticket holder for all but the first two years of the team’s existence, and I’ve never been more optimistic about the future. I hope Matt doesn’t read these blogs or listen to sports talk radio, but if he does, I hope he realizes that the vast majority of true fans of this team are behind him. He’s a winner, pure and simple.
mountain_jim
November 4th, 2009
10:16 am
He has not been as cool and comfortable in the pocket. And while he supposedly strengthened his arm in the off season, his sideline throws looks weaker to me. He is looking to Gonzo too much rather than his progressions.
After watching Flaco for a few games, I do wish Matt had a better arm to go with his mental game aspect.
Maybe also it’s because his LT is not performing like a first-round pick some games, and Matt has lost his comfort about his blind-side.
Where is the safety valve throw for him when max-protect is in and only 2 go out? That’s a scheme defect that cost him several sacks this week.
Where are the screen passes to control the rush? Where’s the no-huddle?The OC shares the blame in Matt’s regression. Not enough play diversity and the D seems to know the plays.
DC-5xSB Winners
November 4th, 2009
10:17 am
In case the reference is missed in my name I’m Cowboys fan who lives in the Atl area. Going into last year’s Draft I said Matt Ryan didn’t have the arm strength & made bad decisions when pressured which is why he threw as many picks as TD’s his SR year. Well last year he surprised me a little then showed more of his true lack of skill in the Playoff loss. Now this season with teams taking away the run which forces them into passing we’re seeing the real Matty “NON Ice, I just threw another pick 6” Ryan! IF you make the playoff & we have a rematch we’ll just have to bloody your noses again! So all you Falcon bandwagoners time to jump ship & go back into your nest so you can come out when they have their next winning season!
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FLACCO
November 4th, 2009
10:18 am
Matty Ice has 3-games with a qb rating in the 60s and below.
Flacco has NONE!
Just like 2007, this team will be rebuilding in 2010.
vafalconfan
November 4th, 2009
10:18 am
Everyone thought Sanchez was Joe Namath after 3 games. It takes a while for a young qb. The good thing here is no one will outwork this kid. He will do the film time and eventually he will “react” instead of “thinking” where to go with the ball. Brees and Manning (Payton) are a perfect examples of that and it didn’t happen in their first 2 years. Matt Ryan is the real deal, but let’s be realistic and let’s be patient. There is no substitute for experience.
Ginger
November 4th, 2009
10:19 am
Good article Mark……I asked myself this question after Monday night loss….Answer was no because Matt has a great intangible—will to win and will do what it takes to get better..Plus he has a great coaching staff around him & great GM-Owner that will surround him with talent to get job done. Drew Brees is so good now, in part, because he has experience and he is doing such great preparation work. Brees is peaking in his career and Brees has a great coach in Sean Payton…Jon Gruden called Brees and Payton football geniuses. Think that Ryan & Mulaky can develop into this type of tandem as well. I told myself Monday night….the the Falcons are still working through THE PROCESS as Smith & Dimitrioff put it…..Matt is still developing…..really think that He can get to Elite QB level…It is a something to watch Brees surgically attack a defense…Atlanta defense did well against Brees by the way with our talent level at this time. Matt has to correct mistakes and look at what his is missing on these INT’s and then just go out and play with fire in his belly..Offense does need more production from receivers other than Roddy or Tony…Mike Jenkins has to step up his game and we really need another weapon at receiver…need 4 good receivers…need Norwood back as we need some more production on running backs with swing pass out of backfield…..Do believe that we are on the path to have some great yrs in Atlanta down the road.
PMC
November 4th, 2009
10:21 am
It’s pretty explanatory really though. Matt Ryan throws to spots meaning he throws before the player is there. If a guy gets knocked down and there is no call… looks like an easy pick. The last pass he threw wasn’t an arm strength thing, the Falcon line somehow let a guy come free (when only 3 were rushing) and it rushed his pass so he threw it from the 40 off balance. He still got roughly 50 yards out of it and didn’t have maximum loft. His arm strength isn’t Flacco’s but it’s not bad.
If Arm strength made QB’s Kyle Boller and Jeff George would be revered as superstars. It matters a lot more the way he plays otherwise. He does have to make better decisions especially under duress but the only people whining about Ryan now are people who never wanted him here. He’s learning, he’s getting better. Drew Brees wasn’t this good when he was learning in San Diego. This is a fantastic time to be a Falcons fan we just have to be patient. Ryan is fine.
DandyD
November 4th, 2009
10:21 am
Ryan’s a winner. Period. Give him time. Oh by the way…where’s MV7, Choke, Flacco whatever you’re calling yourself. Haven’t read to much about him. Guess the Eagles don’t really need him either.
DandyD
November 4th, 2009
10:23 am
If we had Flacco’s defense we’d be what 5-2? 6-1? Can we score 14 points and win a game? Not yet. Not until we get a fulltime DE, Jerry back and a couple of corners that can play.
Bob Horner stayed hurt
November 4th, 2009
10:24 am
Ryan just needs a good game Sunday…and the Falcons need a win over the Skins..seems like it’s a been a month since we’ve won….win Sunday and we’re 5-3…and in good position for the wild card….
Art Blank
November 4th, 2009
10:27 am
In my 3,000.00 suits at football games, I’m trying to be a playa pimp for the hunnies, but the hunnies don’t like a tired ole fool who can’t win freakin playoff games.
I let my ATM machine walk out the door. For what? So I could
Spend 72-million on a weak armed choking punk
Spend 50-million on a back to make him look good
Spend a fortune on an aging hall of famer plus a 2nd rounder
Lose a freakin fortune on a marketing campaign to support this fool
Wasted a freakin ton of draft picks
Hired a Belichick wanna be coach
Hired a Big Tuna jock sniffing GM
Turned my back on the paying fans
What do I have to show for it? Not a damn thing! I have spent over 250-million trying to make this loser look like Peyton Manning and he is looking more Ryan “Freaking” Leaf.
Now comes December 6th, I have to look in my dome and see all those MV7 Red, Black and Eagle MV7 Jerseys laughing at my dumb butt, while the freakin Eagles put up a 50 spot on my Kmart defense.
I am putting an end to this freakin nightmare, no matter what these losers say – I want my sell outs back. I want my playoffs back. MV7 please come back!
Remember the good ole days when I pushed your wheel chair around. I wish I could push this loser chump NOODLE ARM off a cliff!
Michael please come back. I promise to put real talent around you this time.
COME BACK TO ME!
D. Bell
November 4th, 2009
10:29 am
The Flacco comparisons are silly because Flacco plays for a team with a great defense … and the Ravens are still 4-3.
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
10:32 am
Ryan’s arm is just fine. He threw that long ball to Roddy pretty well, did he not?
D. Bell
November 4th, 2009
10:34 am
The Falcons don’t have enough room on the bench for Michael Vick. Besides, who would hold the clipboard in Philly?
bigeasy830
November 4th, 2009
10:35 am
Actually D. Bell, the Falcons defense have been playing better than the Ravens this year.
Angus
November 4th, 2009
10:36 am
I’m happy to have #2 as our QB. The alternative? Jump off the bandwagon and go back into eternal rebuilding mode? No thanks.
Our three losses have come on the road, in intimidating buildings, against teams with a collective 17-4 record. We laid eggs against Dallas and New England – played the Saints much better than expected (someone even said “no chance in hell”).
It’s hard to single anyone out for the offensive woes. Ryan needs to play better, for sure. OL seems to be struggling running and passing. Turner’s had one good game (with way too many fumbles) and we are out of back-ups. WR’s have had crucial drops. Our last year’s bread-and-butter plays are getting stuffed – maybe our game planning is struggling to adjust the other teams’ adjustments after a year of film?
Choke this
November 4th, 2009
10:37 am
What was MV7’s QB Rating in the prison yard last year?
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:38 am
D. Bell
November 4th, 2009
10:29 am
The Flacco comparisons are silly because Flacco plays for a team with a great defense … and the Ravens are still 4-3.
Nice try but that EXCUSE won’t fly this season.
The Ravens defense gives up 19.6 points a game
The Falcons defense gives up 21.3 points a game
That excuse is lame, besides the defense didn’t throw 9 picks
U-no
November 4th, 2009
10:39 am
Matt Ryan is the best thing to happen to Atlanta Falcon football in a long time. He is a smart kid and is a hard worker, continually working to improve. It was almost unavoidable that he would have somewhat of a let down as teams adjust to his style of play and increase the pressure on him. It hasn’t helped that our running game fell off this year, but all of this is easy to correct.
He is young, and talented, and best of all learning. He keeps the team playing as a team, as does Coach Smith. Norwood’s injury hurt the running game, and Turner needed to turn it up a notch, which he did in the New Orleans game. The two interceptions are regrettable, but forgiveable. The one near the end of the game was due to a great defensive play when the ball was tipped by Vilma.
The toughest part of our schedule is now behind us except for needing to play the Saints one more time, but it is in our house the next time. The outcome may be more to our liking when December comes around. We are playoff bound and will break the cycle of not having back to back winning seasons. Things are in good hands with Coach Smith and Matt leading the way. Go Falcons!
Ron Roberts
November 4th, 2009
10:39 am
I know this much….Matt Ryan’s off-field behavior will never worry me. His on-field performance doesn’t, either. The Cowboys and Saints brought pressure, and without Norwood & Snelling to backup Michael Turner, we didn’t ge to use him in pass-blocking schemes nearly as much. In essence, when we went out to run, they knew it; when we set up to pass, they knew it. The fact that we were able to move the ball at all – and as much as we did, speaks volumes of the talent we have on offense – QB included. Getting Norwood and Snelling healthy again will make all the difference in the world.
You can look at his QB ratings all you want; he doesn’t have the numbers-plumping screen passes in his arsenal without Norwood, and that DOES make a difference; and be honest – defenses are keying on Gonzalez. He’s a shoe-in Hall-of-Famer for a reason.
Matt Ryan is NOT the problem.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:40 am
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
10:32 am
Ryan’s arm is just fine. He threw that long ball to Roddy pretty well, did he not?
Mark were you watching the same game? That ball was thrown with such a lob, like it was a helium balloon, that both players had to stop for the ball, wait 3 seconds and then make a play on it.
A player with “REAL” arm strength like Flacco would have thrown that ball with far less air under it.
smoke doctor
November 4th, 2009
10:41 am
Matt “Choke” Ryan
You are a sad, immature, obnoxious, little troll who admits to abusing animals. You obviously are lonely with no life whatsoever since you “lie in wait” and pounce immediately on any Falcons or Matt Ryan blog reference.
Charles Jackson
November 4th, 2009
10:43 am
Hey, Matt “Choke” Ryan: god, you’re tiresome. Go do something else – like play in your baby doll playpen.
Ty-Rod
November 4th, 2009
10:43 am
Matt “choke”,
You are without a doubt the most obsessed and disturbed individual that I have ever observed. Not only do you distort statistics but you criticize a skill set that you most inadequately do not come close to possessing yourself. Get over yourself! No matter how much you rant and rave it isn’t going to change anything. All you are succeeding in doing is proving to everyone who reads your tirades how great your lack of knowledge and understanding of the game of football really is. Do you realize how many people that read what you write are actually laughing at you? Have some self respect and cool it on the Ryan bashing already. Or better yet, continue on and provide everyone else that reads this blog with a good laugh.
jflacco
November 4th, 2009
10:45 am
choke, my back’s itchy. be a good girl and scratch it for me. and take my jersey off, you’re getting that loser stench on it.
jsmuga
November 4th, 2009
10:46 am
His arm strength is fine… ATL will be in playoffs again this year. I love how one week he has IT, then next week IS HE AS GOOD AS WE THOUGHT. These boards are so negative………..
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
10:46 am
Choke = Bad News = ConVick Supporter 2
This is the SAME person, people.
He hates Matt Ryan for racial reasons.
He believes that the Falcons, the FALCONS, treated Mike ConVick unfairly.
He used to say over and over that ConVick was a better QB and the Falcons did him wrong.
But the fact that ConVick sucks and is riding the pine in Philly means that he now talks up Fluke-O.
He’s a racist loser, a bigot of the worst kind who is slavishly devoted to his favorite felon.
NOTHING he says is logical or factual. He never gives context to any ridiculous statements he makes, and again, the biggest reason he hates Matt Ryan is because Ryan, a white QB, came here and replaced his dog-killing, sociopathic favorite, Mike ConVick, in whom he placed so much of his hopes and dreams.
He was banned as Bad News and is back to plague us. The other day, he actually had a conversation with himself on a blog as Choke and ConVick Supporter 2.
Ridiculous.
sidslid
November 4th, 2009
10:46 am
Flacco is a game manager QB. He isn’t going to win many for you. Steelers figured that out and beat them three times last year. Ryan is and will be a game winner and on occasion, a game loser. I will take that any day as that is what Big Ben is and what Terry Bradshaw was. (Six timers to Cowboy organization who can’t even spend a billion on a building to hold punts or a practice facility that doesn’t hold up to wind in Texas.)
Mr. Obvious
November 4th, 2009
10:47 am
Matt Ryan may be having a bad season, but Michael Vick is having a bad LIFE !
Unlike the disgraced & felonious Vick, Matt Ryan is STD-free, educated, intelligent, articulate, able to legally own a firearm, literate, clean-cut, a college graduate, well-mannered, able to use a turn signal, quiet in movie theaters, able to obey the law his fellow citizens follow, respected by his peers, a good role model for both legitimate and illegitimate children, a good tipper and able to (legally) vote Obama and his merry band of socialist, bi-curious thugz out of office.
NCFalconFan
November 4th, 2009
10:48 am
I do not understand all you Ryan haters. I am assuming it’s Vick lovers who refuse to move on. Reading the hatred on these boards and listening to the radio, I wonder do you haters enjoy the game of football anymore. Sitting around waiting for Ryan to throw and INT, losing the games and not making the playoffs. Does that keep you going? Even with a bad game I am glad he is a Falcon.
43 Years of Failure
November 4th, 2009
10:48 am
The Atlanta Fans, AJC Sports writers and Matt Ryan deserve one another. They would accept being mediocre, rather than admitting they were wrong about their assessment of their quarterback.
They can care less about success like other franchises that have Lombardi Trophies.
They are totally pleased with their quarterback this season, even though the past 3 games his qb ratings were 68, 66 & 46.
I say if a fan is happy with being mediocre, then they are in a happy marriage. For that, they should be proud of their quarterback, but don’t complain when you have to watch the playoffs in your living room next to your quarterback.
After all, you wouldn’t want to break a 43 year ritual.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:51 am
Ty-Rod
November 4th, 2009
10:43 am
Matt “choke”,
You are without a doubt the most obsessed and disturbed individual that I have ever observed. Not only do you distort statistics
Name one stat that was distorted? Click on ESPN.COM and cross check them for yourself. If you prove me wrong – SHOW ME
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FALCO
November 4th, 2009
10:51 am
C’mon, guys. No personal attacks, ok. I’m sensitive. By the way, I tried to get Matt’s autograph outside his house at 3am and he totally blew me off. That’s why I’m pissed. So, Noodlearm, you suck. I’m digging my new b/f Joe the Dreamboat Falco.
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
10:51 am
Choke = Bad News = ConVick Supporter 2
This is the SAME person, people.
He hates Matt Ryan for racial reasons.
He believes that the Falcons, the FALCONS, treated Mike ConVick unfairly.
He used to say over and over that ConVick was a better QB and the Falcons did him wrong.
But the fact that ConVick sucks and is riding the pine in Philly means that he now talks up Fluke-O.
He’s a racist loser, a bigot of the worst kind who is slavishly devoted to his favorite felon.
NOTHING he says is logical or factual. He never gives context to any ridiculous statements he makes, and again, the biggest reason he hates Matt Ryan is because Ryan, a white QB, came here and replaced his dog-killing, sociopathic favorite, Mike ConVick, in whom he placed so much of his hopes and dreams.
He was banned as Bad News and is back to plague us. The other day, he actually had a conversation with himself on a blog as Choke and ConVick Supporter 2.
Ridiculous!
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
10:52 am
Choke = Bad News = ConVick Supporter 2
This is the SAME person, people.
He hates Matt Ryan for racial reasons.
He believes that the Falcons, the FALCONS, treated Mike ConVick unfairly.
He used to say over and over that ConVick was a better QB and the Falcons did him wrong.
But the fact that ConVick sucks and is riding the pine in Philly means that he now talks up Fluke-O.
He’s a racist loser, a bigot of the worst kind who is slavishly devoted to his favorite felon.
NOTHING he says is logical or factual. He never gives context to any ridiculous statements he makes, and again, the biggest reason he hates Matt Ryan is because Ryan, a white QB, came here and replaced his dog-killing, sociopathic favorite, Mike ConVick, in whom he placed so much of his hopes and dreams.
He was banned as Bad News and is back to plague us. The other day, he actually had a conversation with himself on a blog as Choke and ConVick Supporter 2.
Ridiculous!!!
MalibuGT
November 4th, 2009
10:53 am
good points mark, but like most people i feel ryan will bounce back. the quarterback position is one of the least of our worry areas. however, the two things am concerned with relative to Ryan are the drops (his confidence level must be “dropping” with Jenkins, who has really cost him some drives) that will continue to push him to focus only on sure hands Tony…and the continuity we need with mularky. I don’t want to see a new offensive coordinator in next year. I think it is critical to Matt’s development to have some continuity. I hear mularky’s name comes up in regards to head coaching positions – not sure how much merit those rumors have.
Baba O'Riley
November 4th, 2009
10:53 am
I read one post from “choke” and I scroll past him now. She’s a waste of time. I wish ajc would make you register and use just one screen name. choke is MV7.
Baba O'Riley
November 4th, 2009
10:55 am
“Dimitroff is no Tuna”- You’re damn right he’s not. Dimitroff didn’t waste a 2nd round pick on Pat White.
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
10:56 am
you know what… I’m getting sick and tired of how the AJC censors these blogs.
you let his unbelievable TROLL post as three different people and RUIN the blogs, and I do my part to expose him for what he is so others can understand his bigotted motivation WITHOUT using questionable language or acting like an a-hole, and I’M the one who’s post is censored???
TAKE FRAKKING CARE OF YOUR TROLL PROBLEM AJC!!!
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:57 am
You guys are funny – you defend Ryan like he is your butt buddy
This chump stinks more than a skunk in your living rooms
Check this out:
Denver was undefeated, but ole Joe Cool said screw the Broncos – here is a QB RATING of 109 on you. Take that undefeated season and stuff it.
How many undefeated teams has the CHOKE beaten? How many ELITE teams has he beaten?
NADA……..ZIP………ARE YOU SERIOUS……..I’m just a NOODLE ARM
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FALCO
November 4th, 2009
10:57 am
Matt “Choke” Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:40 am
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
10:32 am
Ryan’s arm is just fine. He threw that long ball to Roddy pretty well, did he not?
Mark were you watching the same game? That ball was thrown with such a lob, like it was a helium balloon, that both players had to stop for the ball, wait 3 seconds and then make a play on it.
A player with “REAL” arm strength like Flacco would have thrown that ball with far less air under it.
Man, you got burned, Bradley. Conversation over.
Falco wins the “no one gives a s#@t” award for awesomeness.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
10:58 am
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
10:51 am
Choke = Bad News = ConVick Supporter 2
This is the SAME person, people.
He hates Matt Ryan for racial reasons
You hurt my feelings
Anyway, what does that have to do with 68, 66 & 46 QB RATINGS
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
11:00 am
Baba O’Riley
November 4th, 2009
10:55 am
“Dimitroff is no Tuna”- You’re damn right he’s not. Dimitroff didn’t waste a 2nd round pick on Pat White.
Who has more rings – Big Tuna or Dimitroff 2 and done?
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
11:00 am
It is, I realize, too much to ask to discuss Matt Ryan without someone — usually the same one or two someones — making reference to Vick. But one has nothing to do with the other. Vick was given the keys to the franchise and threw them away. The Falcons then needed someone else to drive.
Vick did good work here. But he hasn’t played for the Falcons since Dec. 31, 2006. Let’s move on, shall we?
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
11:01 am
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
10:56 am
you know what… I’m getting sick and tired of how the AJC censors these blogs.
midnite are you going to cry? BWAA HAA HAA
bigeasy830
November 4th, 2009
11:01 am
Big Ben went 13-0 as a starter his rookie season and won the Super Bowl the next season, Joe Flacco won 2 play-off games his Rookie season and matched Matt Ryan’s 11-5 regular season record. It is your opionion that Matt Ryan had the greatest Rookie season for a QB, the only stat that matters fpr a QB is wins and loses. Matt Ryan had a great season for a rookie but it was good to medicre in other standards. He set high standards for bandwagon Falcons bloggers but he ran the same offense that he ran in college so he already knew the offense, the opposing defenses are now scheming better against him. Plus his slide started in the last 3 games of the regular season last year and the play-off game that he threw 2 picks in. The falcons won down the stretch last year in spite of Matt Ryan not because of him. Also, SIDSLID, Joe flacco is more than a game manager this season. The Ravens lost 2 games that Joe Flaccoo was bringing them back in. The kicker missed the game field goal in one game and the rceiver dropped a first down pass on 4th down in the other. You Falcons bloggers really look to make excuses don’t you.
Sonny Clusters
November 4th, 2009
11:02 am
Clusters don’t slump but if we did it would be like Matt Ryan – just a little bump in the road. Matt will be fine when the running backs all get back. When teams fear the run they get some good passes completed on ‘em. When we was playing ball we always remembered that.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
11:04 am
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
11:00 am
It is, I realize, too much to ask to discuss Matt Ryan without someone — usually the same one or two someones — making reference to Vick. But one has nothing to do with the other. Vick was given the keys to the franchise and threw them away. The Falcons then needed someone else to drive.
Vick did good work here. But he hasn’t played for the Falcons since Dec. 31, 2006. Let’s move on, shall we?
Touche Mark – Let’s talk about the present quarterback
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FALCO
November 4th, 2009
11:06 am
Bradley, me thinks this is really Joe Flacco taking it personal that the Falcons didn’t draft him. It’s ok, buddy. Go take a nap in the corner and we’ll wake you at snack time.
BugKiller
November 4th, 2009
11:07 am
Uh-oh…
Here comes the 4th personality Choke uses… bigeasy830.
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FALCO
November 4th, 2009
11:08 am
Matt “Choke” Ryan
November 4th, 2009
11:04 am
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
11:00 am
It is, I realize, too much to ask to discuss Matt Ryan without someone — usually the same one or two someones — making reference to Vick. But one has nothing to do with the other. Vick was given the keys to the franchise and threw them away. The Falcons then needed someone else to drive.
Vick did good work here. But he hasn’t played for the Falcons since Dec. 31, 2006. Let’s move on, shall we?
Touche Mark – Let’s talk about the present quarterback
Got you again, Bradley.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
11:09 am
You guys better get your tired excuses ready for this weekend, because if you think the defenses in the past 3 weeks were tough, you haven’t seen anything yet.
The Redskins are 2nd in the NFL in overall defense and they play the tighest press coverage than any other team the Falcons will face. The Redskins problems are on the offensive side of the ball, but with the Falcons Kmart defense, Jason Campbell will look like Brett Favre this Sunday.
So get your EXCUSE LIST ready, because this is not a bump in the road, this an EXPOSED tour
F-105 Thunderchief
November 4th, 2009
11:09 am
I think ol’ Red will be OK. But, when he unleashed(?) that last interception Sunday, the term noodle arm did flash briefly through my mind. But, hey, Bartkowski’s got to be about 60, so he’s not coming back.
bigsleasy830
November 4th, 2009
11:10 am
Enter your comments here
bobo
November 4th, 2009
11:13 am
The best “Matt” the Falcons ever had now plays in Houston. Matt Ryan is okay, but something is lacking in him. Maybe it’s the Sophomore Jinx, his youth (Shaub’s only 4 yrs older)or he’s simply been “found out”. Whatever, he’s obviously not living up to the overly enthusiastic hype.
When the year started everyone was saying Ryan would be every teams number one choice as the quarterback of the future. He may still have that potential, but for now he’s not living up to it.
eric
November 4th, 2009
11:13 am
Yeah, Ryan sucks! Oh wait. His “choking” passer rating of 82.6 is still better than that dog killer ever had. And we all know VIck never saw anything like a 59% completion rate….
PMC
November 4th, 2009
11:14 am
Big Easy… Seriously? you’re going to compare the PITTSBURGH STEELERS defense to the Atlanta Falcons?
Really? There is no apple to apple comparison here.
PMC
November 4th, 2009
11:16 am
Matt Schaub is a walking hospital. Houston overpaid ridiculously for that guy.
PMC
November 4th, 2009
11:17 am
There is a hospital near Milledgeville some of you need to visit.
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
11:18 am
I don’t believe Matt Schaub has taken a team to the playoffs yet.
BLACK OR WHITE VICK OR RYAN
November 4th, 2009
11:18 am
The bottom line is that our quarterback play is horrible. 9 interceptions already!!! We need better quarterback play if we expect to make the playoffs. I like matty Ice, but I think he is truly over—rated and has one of the weakest arms in the league. he can throw the ball with accuracy within 30 yards. but! anything over 40 yards and his balls look like fallen balloons. Keep it real!!! the quarterback play must get better or we are in T-R-O-U-B-L-E. No time to point fingers. I say bring in john parket jr.—love that kid.
chemdawg
November 4th, 2009
11:20 am
Brad, your statistics are not statistically significant.
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
11:21 am
If the Falcons are going to make the playoffs, the quarterback play will have to improve (at least over the play seen in these past three games). But the smart money says it will.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
11:23 am
Mark Bradley
November 4th, 2009
11:18 am
I don’t believe Matt Schaub has taken a team to the playoffs yet.
I’m confused, first you guys complain about previous qbs bad stats even though they won in the playoffs and now you are complaining about the Number 3 qb in the NFL (Statistics wise), so I’m really confused.
Which do you prefer – stats or playoff wins?
justforinfo
November 4th, 2009
11:23 am
This is not a slump for Ryan, if other players would step their game up, like more receivers and linemen. like Turner and White have done. He throwed 3 interception, one didn’t count, one should have never happened if Jenkins had caught the 3 an 4 , if the kicker does not miss 2 field goals, You get the picture this is not Ryan’s slum it;s his supporting cast not living up to their standards. He can’t protect for himself, he can’t catch his own pass, or block.
TRUE FALCONS FAN
November 4th, 2009
11:25 am
our quarterback play really shows how much the running game helped last year. Sugarcoat it all you want to—OUR QUARTERBACK PLAY STINKS RIGHT NOW!!!
ErikinATL
November 4th, 2009
11:28 am
Hey Matt “Choke” Ryan:
Do you think, just maybe, that Ryan’s numbers over the last few weeks (and Turner’s too) are because he and the Falcons have played on the road at three of the NFL’s best teams? On the road at New England, Dallas and New Orleans is no joke. All three will make the playoffs and at least two of them look like Super Bowl contenders.
I’ll admit he’s struggled lately. No doubt about it. But I’ll choose to agree with 99.9% of the NFL GMs, coaches and media types who say this kid has what it takes to be great. If you choose to be on the other 0.1% just to stay loyal to the “other guy”, so be it. That’s your right. The guy went 11-5 last year as a ROOKIE. WE have a winning record now and some very winnable games coming up. I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt for now.
PMC
November 4th, 2009
11:31 am
I stuck up for the previous QB the past 7 years until he chose to go to prison. I blamed WR’s, I blamed the line, I really blamed the scheme… because that guy was a winner and I liked watching him play. I’ve got nothing against our former QB…. but he’s our former QB. I wish him the best when he’s not playing us. Ryan is the man now and he’s beaten the Bears throwing to Michael Jenkins no less to set us up for a win with 1 second left. To me it is as impressive as that tie the other guy had in 2002 at Pittsburg coming back in the 4th quarter, the levetation game against Carolina and the win in previously feared Lambeau in 2002. 7 is gone so I pull for 2 now. I root for the laundry.
pilgrim
November 4th, 2009
11:31 am
The Cardinal playoff loss – plus the Pats, the Cowboys, and the Saints this year – were all high pressure environments. I certainly don’t blame these losses on Ryan, but I would also like to see him pull one out. I’m confident it will happen soon.
PMC
November 4th, 2009
11:33 am
2 Will come Through!
Rickster
November 4th, 2009
11:34 am
It’s the “Air Tran” curse. Mick Vick gets a contract… enough said. Turner gets a contract, his production goes down. Same with Ryan.
Not sure what Peyton Manning did while he had a contract.
But no Falcon should sign a contract with Air Tran.
A Realist
November 4th, 2009
11:34 am
Wow…it is too bad that there can’t be a legitimate discussion on any of the AJC Atlanta Falcons’ blogs without the same rehash daily of the same usually unrelated statistics. How many ways can you mention QB ratings and play-off wins. We got it the first time!!!!
FACE OF THE FRANCHISE
November 4th, 2009
11:35 am
gotta fill the shoes of MV7 wow!
can you imagine that kind of pressure?
It’s truly beginning to show!!!
the days of waiting lists for tickets is gone.
THE TRUE LEGEND OF MV7 LIVES ON!!!
****THE ICE IS MELTING*****
AJC Headline Maker
November 4th, 2009
11:36 am
Should Falcons release Ryan and build for future with John Parker Wilson?
Steve
November 4th, 2009
11:38 am
Mr.Bradley you are pathetic. Do you wet the bed at night coming up with stuff to create controversy?
Howard Roark
November 4th, 2009
11:39 am
Apparently your criticism of the “famous Matt Ryan” has softened a bit since your conversation with Thomas Dimitroff. the cya tone of your column today is quite a contrast from the drive-by fire and ice piece you did on the famous ATL QB yesterday.
Please consider banning the obnoxious “choke” poster.
FalconUGAFan
November 4th, 2009
11:39 am
Choke, I’ll tell you what we prefer. We prefer you go away, so we can have a reasonable discussion.
Baba O'Riley
November 4th, 2009
11:40 am
I’m sure Dimitroff has rings from New England. Who has been at it longer? When Dimitroff has been at it as long as Parcells, who will have more??? How many playoff games with Dallas did Tuna win??? What has Tuna done lately????
Steve
November 4th, 2009
11:41 am
PATHETIC…you let jecks like, choke, vick supporter, draft flacco etc…….post a comment but reject others. Pathetic!!
da roosta
November 4th, 2009
11:41 am
I will repeat myself again. This is common sense stuff. When you send two maybe three guys out for a pass, you are less likely to find an open receiver. We are keeping the additional receivers in to pass block because the guys up front are not getting it done. Matt is going to be a great QB. You have to factor in the TEAM concept. Everyone must do their assignments. Get your obsession and focus off Matt!
Steve
November 4th, 2009
11:42 am
YOU SUCK!!!
THE GOOD OLD DAYS!!!
November 4th, 2009
11:42 am
I’ll take chris miller or david archer anyday. At least these guys player with heart. THE ICE IS MELTING!!!!
Patrick
November 4th, 2009
11:46 am
Dramatic over-reaction. Look for an article coming out soon from nfl.com’s Pat Kirwan. Ryan is not only fine, he’s on pace to be significantly better than last year with the exception of sacks/attempt and INTs. If the running game keeps going, Ryan will be more than fine.
sid camp
November 4th, 2009
11:50 am
Defenses adjusted to their film of him from year one. Now its up to him to adjust. Mark, this is a worthless column with no real value other than to stir up the lunatic (MV7) fringe. thanks, (sarcasm). Don’t you have a “i’m in love with UK basketball” column to write or something?
The Dogfighter Returns
November 4th, 2009
11:56 am
Mark when r u going to start running for office?
greatest rookie qb ever:) how many rookie qb play in their first year?
the same falcons got rid of brett favre. yep. the falcons got rid of brett favre.
imagine what this town would be like if that mouth of the south glanville had been reined in.
Matt needs to be judicious about the ads he appears in. that gilette ad does him a diservice if he wants to be taken seriously as a football player.
Tron5000
November 4th, 2009
11:58 am
When you hear interviews with the Falcons players, the veterans say it’s amazing how they are able to be led by a 24-year-old second-year QB. They speak to his poise, abilities and confidence. They highlight the fact that he is the first guy in the complex in the morning and the last to leave at night. He’s been described as a film rat, a guy who obsesses over fixing his mistakes and correcting the problems. He’s a low-key guy who eats in less-crowded restaurants, appreciates good service and leaves good tips (from what I’ve heard, from a trusted source).
My, what a breath of fresh air.
Now, I guess there’s always chance that he’ll get busted in an airport on suspicion of carrying drugs. Or that one of his boys will swipe someone’s watch. Or that he’ll be the defendant in a civil trial claiming he passed along an STD. Maybe he’ll flip off the fans at the end of a game. Heck, he still has time to fund a felonious criminal organization.
But I kinda doubt it. Thanks for being here, Matt Ryan. I watched you rip my Jackets in Atlanta your senior year, saw the comeback win against Virginia Tech, and caught almost all your other games on TV that year, ’cause I knew we needed a new QB and I thought you were the guy. When the guys in my section at the Dome ripped on Harrington and Leftwich and Redman, I explained that everything would be OK in that department; Matt Ryan would be here next year. Not too many of those guys were big on the idea.
I would’ve taken the guy with the first pick in the draft, and I would’ve traded up to do it. Haven’t changed my thinking at all.
The Grinch
November 4th, 2009
11:59 am
Not that many of you care, but I’m done posting here until some standards are put in place. If you’re not able to vote, have more than five gold teeth, and drive a $50,000 “Ex-calade” with 24″ spinners despite not having a job, then GO TO THE PHILLY FORUM and spew your bull-%^$# there.
This is just like high school detention hall, a place nobody with any sense would come to voluntarily any more.
FalconUGAFan
November 4th, 2009
12:00 pm
I’m not sure you can say that Ryan doesn’t play with heart. He is struggling, but the kid’s heart is in it.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
12:00 pm
AJC Headline Maker
November 4th, 2009
11:36 am
Should Falcons release Ryan and build for future with John Parker Wilson?
You may have something there.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
12:02 pm
Howard Roark
November 4th, 2009
11:39 am
Apparently your criticism of the “famous Matt Ryan” has softened a bit since your conversation with Thomas Dimitroff. the cya tone of your column today is quite a contrast from the drive-by fire and ice piece you did on the famous ATL QB yesterday.
Please consider banning the obnoxious “choke” poster.
Shouldn’t you be watching “The View”
Stop whining you big girl 
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
12:04 pm
FalconUGAFan
November 4th, 2009
11:39 am
Choke, I’ll tell you what we prefer. We prefer you go away, so we can have a reasonable discussion.
I’ll make a deal with you. If the CHOKE wins a couple of playoff games this season I’ll disappear FOREVER. Since the Easter Bunny has a better chance than the CHOKE I’ll be here for a while.
I know it’s lousy hand you were dealt but buddy suck it up
Bluestreak
November 4th, 2009
12:07 pm
All I can say is if this is the sophomore slump that it seems all QBs run into, then I think Ryan and the Falcons will have a long and very successful relationship.
Matt "Choke" Ryan
November 4th, 2009
12:08 pm
The Grinch
November 4th, 2009
11:59 am
Not that many of you care, but I’m done posting here until some standards are put in place. If you’re not able to vote, have more than five gold teeth, and drive a $50,000 “Ex-calade” with 24″ spinners despite not having a job, then GO TO THE PHILLY FORUM and spew your bull-%^$# there.
By Grinchie Poo – Miss you already