Is Matt Ryan the NFL’s best? Nope. Is he good enough? Yep
Here we have an actual picture of an icecap. Get it? (AJC photo by Curtis Compton)
Fair’s fair. If we criticize Matt Ryan for not throwing the best deep ball and for authoring a tepid start to this season — and we have on both counts — we must also say this: The guy’s got it going now. (Maybe not on the deep pass, but on everything else.)
Matt Ryan through the first seven games of 2011: Nine touchdown passes, eight interceptions, a yards-per-pass average of 6.68 and a 79.5 passer rating.
Matt Ryan through the next seven games of 2011: Seventeen touchdown passes, four interceptions, a yards-per-pass average of 7.96 and a 101.5 passer rating.
It’s not as if Ryan is throwing more, or even more accurately. His totals for attempts and completions from those first seven games to the past seven are almost identical. What’s different if the effect. By whatever means — slightly deeper throws, more yards-after-catch — the Falcons have become more pass-productive.
Numbers geeks insist the single most important stat in football is yards per attempt, and through seven games the Falcons’ YPA was pedestrian. Now it meets NFL requirements. Through seven games Ryan hadn’t had much of a season, but he’s having one now. He’s on pace to set personal bests for yardage and touchdowns, and he’s 0.5 off his best seasonal passer rating.
In sum, the chilliness of Matty Ice has yielded to a warming trend. We nitpick the guy to shreds — I’m as guilty as anyone — but in the carping we sometimes miss the bigger picture.
Is Ryan among the NFL’s five best quarterbacks? No. Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning comprise a front four unto themselves, and Ben Roethlisberger’s two Super Bowl rings make him No. 5.
Is Ryan among the NFL’s 10 best quarterbacks? Absolutely. Behind the top five, I’d put him in the second tier of four more or less alongside Eli Manning, Philip Rivers and Joe Flacco. (Who fills out the top 10? Maybe Tony Romo. Maybe Matt Schaub or Matthew Stafford. Maybe, in a different year, Michael Vick.)
Here are the other salient numbers regarding Ryan — 42-20. That’s the Falcons’ record in games he has started. That’s a winning percentage of .677, and it puts him in high company. Brady and Roethelisberger have won at a higher rate, and so has Rodgers, if barely. (He was 44-21 entering Sunday’s game.) But that .667 beats the great Peyton Manning’s career winning percentage, which is .661.
And here you’re saying: Peyton’s career record was skewed by the 3-13 of his rookie season. That’s true, but Ryan was drafted by a team that had gone 4-12 the year before and was working under a new coach. The 2008 Falcons were a prime candidate to go 3-13, but their new quarterback didn’t let them. The 2008 Falcons went 11-5 instead and made the playoffs, and they haven’t had a losing season under Ryan (or Mike Smith).
In a weird way, Ryan’s rookie season has jaundiced our view. If he was that good that soon, we all wondered, how much better would he be given another couple of years? We’ve gotten our answer: Not all that much better. He was tough and polished from the start, and he’s tough and polished now. His completion percentage is actually slightly lower in Year 4 than in Year 1, and so is his yards-per-attempt. But he’s still winning, and as Smith noted after the Minnesota game: “That’s the only number that matters for a quarterback.”
A few weeks ago Jim Trotter of Sports Illustrated examined the career path of four NFL quarterbacks who had early success — Ryan, Flacco, Mark Sanchez of the Jets and Josh Freeman of the Buccaneers — and wondered if, because they played in sophisticated college offenses, they arrived in the NFL “with less room to grow.” Thomas Dimitroff, the Falcons’ general manager, offered Trotter this rather fascinating quote:
There are some very valid levels below that elite [quarterback] level that can allow organizations to be successful and make runs at Super Bowls. Everyone needs to understand that … They don’t have to necessarily [have] the elite quarterback of the league to be successful as a team.
Some might interpret that as Dimitroff saying the man he drafted with his first pick as GM will never be as good as Rodgers or Brees or Brady or Peyton M., but his greater point was: Does it matter? Eli Manning has won as many Super Bowls as his big brother. Brad Johnson won as many Super Bowls as Brett Favre. The key question to ask of an NFL quarterback: Can this guy win a championship?
The Falcons have Matt Ryan. He might not be the best there is, but he’s plenty good enough. He can win a championship. He’ll win a playoff game, and maybe more than one, next month.
By Mark Bradley
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389 comments Add your comment
Steve
December 18th, 2011
2:01 pm
Uno?
jjm
December 18th, 2011
2:03 pm
Can’t win a superbowl with him and so far we can’t even win a playoff game with him…he’s a above average regular season qb
Grandmaster JeJe
December 18th, 2011
2:12 pm
Rivers and Flacco? LOL
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
2:13 pm
Kudos, steve.
patrick
December 18th, 2011
2:17 pm
i miss jerry glanville.
jay
December 18th, 2011
2:21 pm
Ryan has that intangible that makes him a good nfl qb.
Delbert D.
December 18th, 2011
2:28 pm
Let’s do something about that offensive line.
RomeDawg
December 18th, 2011
2:28 pm
I think Ryan is a good QB, not great. In today’s pass happy league I think you need a great QB to win. In the 90’s and early 2000’s the team with the great defense and run game won the most. Not today! It starts and ends with the QB. Look no further than Green Bay, New England and New Orleans for example. Odss are, one of those teams will be picked by most to win the Super Bowl yet none of them are great running the ball and damn sure don’t have great defenses. However, what they do have is a great QB….and that IS the difference maker!
Whopper Dawg
December 18th, 2011
2:29 pm
Not sure I agree, take out the weak sisters of Panthers and Jags and how do the stats look in the last 7 (now last 5)?
He has it all except for one thing, a very important thing. Accuracy. The elites have it, he doesn’t. That was his rap coming out of college (60%) and that is exactly where he is as a pro (60%).
A stat you overlooked – playoff games 2, playoff losses 2, bad playoff games for Ryan 2.
Let’s hope he redeems himself this year, but if you move past the last 6 quarters, there is scant reason to believe he will.
patrick
December 18th, 2011
2:34 pm
quarterbacks, quarterbacks. it all comes down to coaching. and the best coach in the world is coaching in the united football league. hartford something or another. and until he makes a magical return, we will never win the superbowl. he is the mastermind behind trading away drunken quarterback, brett favre. until we get that kind of mastery of personnel back, we will never win anything. matt ryan or not.
Hunter
December 18th, 2011
2:37 pm
26 other NFL teams would take Matt Ryan, too bad half the fans in his own town won’t. It’s bullshit. Matty Ice is the real deal. He’ll finish this year over 4k yards and 30+ td’s, with a playoff birth for the 3rd time in 4 years. I agree with Mark, the Falcons will win a playoff game this year. There’s not much more you can ask for.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:40 pm
I still don’t understand the reluctance of the AJC and it’s writers to put the blame for the Falcons offensive woes to start the season (and to start most games since then) squarely where it belongs:
ON MIKE MULARKEY.
He’s a horrible playcaller. He’s predictable, uncreative, unyielding in his refusal to use his players’ strengths in his offense, stupid in his refusal to use certain kinds of plays to offset aggressive defenses and their pass rush (hello, screen pass), and based on his interview with DOL from about a month ago, completely and utterly out of touch with reality that HE and his play calling, not the players, is at fault.
When Matt Ryan calls the plays: every play has more yards per play, Ryan gets sacked less, Turner has a better YPC average, the offensive scores more TDs in the Red Zone, the offense has more “explosive” plays, the offense has FAR less three and outs, the offense has more quick-strike TD drives, and the offense USES THE PLAYERS STRENGTHS to win… meaning there are more slant and go’s, and less outs & curls and stops, to guys like Douglas and Jones, there was that amazing wheel route TD to JaQuizz, which Mularkey would NEVER have called in a million years.
WHY is the AJC refusing to see these things? I am reminded that the AJC and the writers were also very slow to point out just how poorly Soft Willie was doing at Georgia until just before the 2009 season, his last.
NATIONAL WRITERS have been talking about how poorly Mularkey is doing as a play caller since the Green Bay and New Orleans games, games given away by the Falcons when Mularkey shut down the offense with 10-point leads. Now, Mike Smith has some blame there, too, because it’s actually his call to hand the offense over to Ryan, and he didn’t hand the offense over to Ryan until it was too late. Just like agains the Panthers… Mularkey called plays that WHOLE first half, and the offense SUCKED.
There was no flow, no rhythm to the offense in the first half of the Panthers game, and there NEVER is when Mularkey calls the plays. WHY is that STILL being ignored?
DOL refuses to talk about it, even though we’ve now moved beyond the realm of opinions and into verifiable FACT, which is something he CAN discuss as the beat writer.
WHY are the local writers ignoring Mularkey? WHY are the Falcons’ fans only allies agains the suckage of Mularkey found in Mike Silver, Pete Prisco, Mike Mayock, Don Banks, Trent Dilfer, and other reputable national NFL writers / talking heads?
Dropping the ball, AJC.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:41 pm
AJC… release my post, please. Nothing offensive about it.
R Brown
December 18th, 2011
2:41 pm
Between the ears, his leadership and his command at the line of scrimmage calling plays with the audible, I’d have to say Ryan is fast approaching elite status. However, his ability to get away from the rush and to be any kind of threat to break contain and extend plays does I believe rank him in the lower tier. Being able to extend plays allows the receivers to free themselves and keeps the second level of the defense honest. Additionally, his accuracy and arm strength are not exceptional or even middling for a professional quarterback. He tends to loft deep balls and overthrows high to his receivers. His passes also drift on sideline routes. After all that, you’d be hardpressed to believe I agree with you that we can win with MR but I do. Matt Ryan is not the next coming. Not yet at least but we can win ball games with him. We’re just waiting on him to win BIG ball games for us.
Vampire Bill
December 18th, 2011
2:41 pm
I’m just glad that he’s not a felon, got his degree and married the mother of his (future) children.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:49 pm
Okay, I’ll break it into parts:
I still don’t understand the reluctance of the AJC and it’s writers to put the blame for the Falcons offensive woes to start the season (and to start most games since then) squarely where it belongs:
ON MIKE MULARKEY.
He’s a horrible playcaller. He’s predictable, uncreative, unyielding in his refusal to use his players’ strengths in his offense, stupid in his refusal to use certain kinds of plays to offset aggressive defenses and their pass rush (hello, screen pass), and based on his interview with DOL from about a month ago, completely and utterly out of touch with reality that HE and his play calling, not the players, is at fault.
When Matt Ryan calls the plays: every play has more yards per play, Ryan gets sacked less, Turner has a better YPC average, the offensive scores more TDs in the Red Zone, the offense has more “explosive” plays, the offense has FAR less three and outs, the offense has more quick-strike TD drives, and the offense USES THE PLAYERS STRENGTHS to win… meaning there are more slant and go’s, and less outs & curls and stops, to guys like Douglas and Jones, there was that amazing wheel route TD to JaQuizz, which Mularkey would NEVER have called in a million years…
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:50 pm
… WHY is the AJC refusing to see these things? I am reminded that the AJC and the writers were also very slow to point out just how poorly Soft Willie was doing at Georgia until just before the 2009 season, his last.
NATIONAL WRITERS have been talking about how poorly Mularkey is doing as a play caller since the Green Bay and New Orleans games, games given away by the Falcons when Mularkey shut down the offense with 10-point leads. Now, Mike Smith has some blame there, too, because it’s actually his call to hand the offense over to Ryan, and he didn’t hand the offense over to Ryan until it was too late. Just like agains the Panthers… Mularkey called plays that WHOLE first half, and the offense SUCKED…
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:51 pm
… There was no flow, no rhythm to the offense in the first half of the Panthers game, and there NEVER is when Mularkey calls the plays. WHY is that STILL being ignored?
DOL refuses to talk about it, even though we’ve now moved beyond the realm of opinions and into verifiable FACT, which is something he CAN discuss as the beat writer.
WHY are the local writers ignoring Mularkey? WHY are the Falcons’ fans only allies agains the suckage of Mularkey found in Mike Silver, Pete Prisco, Mike Mayock, Don Banks, Trent Dilfer, and other reputable national NFL writers / talking heads? Dropping the ball, AJC.
R Brown
December 18th, 2011
2:54 pm
PS Mark..13-3 seasons are great and we love them and four winning seasons in a row is outstanding but zero for forever in the playoffs for MR is the legacy we want to see erased and hopefully like you say, that will change next month. If it doesn’t, the argument will continue.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:56 pm
You’ve got to be KIDDING me with this blog… what the ever-loving frak??? I’ve got three sentences and it keeps on hiding them away, and there’s no questionable language, there’s nothing that could even be construed as inciting remarks… this is b.s.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
2:56 pm
WHY are the local writers ignoring Mularkey?
WHY are the Falcons’ fans only allies against the horribleness of Mularkey only found OUTSIDE the state, from guys like Mike Silver, Pete Prisco, Mike Mayock, Don Banks, Trent Dilfer, and other reputable national NFL writers / talking heads?
When is the AJC and its writers going to open their eyes and go after the guy who’s the REAL problem on the Falcons?
Fred Sanford
December 18th, 2011
3:00 pm
Can Mark Bradley write a decent article? Nope. Is he good enough? Nope.
The Mighty Quinn
December 18th, 2011
3:23 pm
You know, there’s a QB in NFL history who won 5 NFL championships in 10 years and you NEVER hear his name in “Greatest NFL QBs in History” debate: Bart Starr. I don’t care what kind of numbers Matt Ryan puts up, as long as the Falcons win. As has been noted, Dan Marino put up other-worldly numbers through his entire career, and has no rings. Shoot, JEFF Freakin’ GEORGE rang up quite a few 400 yard games and never won anything! “Game Manager” does NOT automatically equal “Sucks.”
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
3:24 pm
Nobody’s talking about the Falcons. It’s all about the Saints and Packers in the NFC. Ok that’s all well and good, but nobody saw the Packers coming last season. They were 10-6, and were the 6th seed in the playoffs and got hot. You never know what will happen in the NFL. The media is often wrong. So it likely won’t be the Saints or Packers. What if it’s San Fran? What if it’s Atlanta? What if it’s Dallas? You just never know.
In order to beat the Saints next week, the Falcons MUST get pressure on Brees or it’s gonna be a long night. We’ll be on MNF, in their house, rival game, etc. Gotta bring our A game to win. The Saints are undefeated at home this season, doesn’t mean they can’t lose there. Falcons are not the Vikings, and the Falcons always play the Saints tough. They were one drop away from beating them in the Georgia Dome last time. Don’t be surprised to see the Falcons win.
History Will Teach Us if We Will Learn
December 18th, 2011
3:36 pm
We’re talking about elite quarterbacks here, not coaches or sports columnist. Mr Bradley is as good as Jesse Outlar was in his own way. Mularky gives Ryan a framework to operate and excel but he can’t play for him. Every play scores a touchdown on the chalk board, it fails when not executed or the defense doesn’t react like you thought it would. Bill Walsh proved you didn’t have to have an elite quarterback to win superbowls. He had to have guys who performed excellently in his system. Back to Mr. Bradley’s point, Matt Ryan will become elite once the Falcons invest in an O-line that keeps 300lbs D-linemen from squashing him too often.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
3:36 pm
Now that the Ain’ts beat the Vikes, watch them come on here and beat their chest after beating a 2-11 team after pouring salt on our win over the Jags (who have a better record than the Vikes) all week.
Gorilla Biscuit
December 18th, 2011
3:36 pm
Vampire Bill, ditto.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
3:37 pm
Gotta get pressure on Brees next week. Abraham and Edwards need to get after it. Edwards really needs to come through next week and earn his money. Abraham says he’s healthy, well let’s see it. As for our offense, run that rock with Turner and play action the Saints to death.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
3:39 pm
I think the pressure that’s going to matter the most though is the pressure from Corey Peters and Jonathan Babineaux. If you have an inside pass rush, it’s much better than the outside pass rush because Drew Brees will just step up in the pocket if you just have an outside pass rush. But if you get some push inside, he has no where to go. Very important.
War Eagle 30082
December 18th, 2011
3:43 pm
@UGABugKiller
Dude, give it a rest…
I’ve read your posts, and no doubt, others have, too. No need to keep posting the SAME thing over and over and over. Reptition has no impact as regards to your complaints.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
3:51 pm
Well, well, well, Green Bay looks human after all. They WILL NOT go to the Super Bowl. It will be someone else. Either the Falcons, 49ers, or Taints. The NFC East representative has no shot. They all suck and are bipolar. 49ers have no offense and are wearing down. Could the NFC Championship game be between the Falcons and Saints? Hmmm
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
3:53 pm
1st seed: Green Bay
2nd seed: New Orleans
3rd seed: 49ers
4th seed: Cowboys
5th seed: Atlanta
6th seed: Detroit
You can cross out Detroit, Cowboys, and 49ers. This NFC run is going to come down to the Falcons, Saints, and Packers. Never know?
DawgNole
December 18th, 2011
4:16 pm
Hunter says, “I agree with Mark, the Falcons will win a playoff game this year. There’s not much more you can ask for.”
You got that one wrong, Hunter. There’s a whole lot more you can ask this franchise for after nearly a half century without a championship.
DawgNole
December 18th, 2011
4:26 pm
One of the best things about Ryan’s emergence the second half of this season is that the racist scumbag “Choke” and his aliases have quietly exited the blogs for the most part–and retreated to their holes.
Poncho
December 18th, 2011
4:27 pm
Matt is too inconsistent to believe he’s all of a sudden turn the corner. He is not cool “Ice” under pressure that’s for sure! Saints will blitz him, he will back peddle and make a dumb decision. I hope for the Falcon’s sake that he comes prepared to play and throw accurately.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
4:31 pm
Barner,
When the AJC and its writers actually start acknowledging the person actually at fault for the Falcons offensive woes, Mike Mularkey, then I’ll stop pointing out this failing.
It’s especially noticeable, Barner, considering luminaries in the national media, like Mike Silver, Pete Prisco, Don Banks, and Pat Yasinskas have been addressing the issue regarding Mike Mularkey for weeks, yet the AJC and its writers have not.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
4:41 pm
http://blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/2011/10/10/the-falcons-say-theyll-figure-it-out-we-ask-ok-when/
ATLER (Ramblin Wreck)
December 18th, 2011
4:45 pm
Slow day at the AJC huh M.B. This article is useless. You knodamn well Matty isn’t near the best QB in the NFL and not even close. Win a playoff game before you start with this crap. You are about as delusional as the ugag fans.
Paul in NH
December 18th, 2011
4:45 pm
History Will Teach Us if We Will Learn
December 18th, 2011
3:36 pm
….Bill Walsh proved you didn’t have to have an elite quarterback to win superbowls
—-
That’s right. Bill Walsh had 2 completely useless QBs when he won all of those Super Bowls. Who the heck were Joe Montana and Steve Young?
Realist
December 18th, 2011
4:53 pm
Mark, the best part of that old article was the comment section, as people who know very little about football saying the Falcons season was over after just 5 games. Unreal… now, we can clinch a playoff spot before we even play our 15th game of the season. And, as the Packers showed last year, once you make the tournament, you just have to get a little hot for a few weeks.
UGABugKiller
December 18th, 2011
4:54 pm
Mark, fair enough:
But it’s moved fair past “Mularkey needs to a do a better job” to “Matt Ryan and this offense are SO MUCH BETTER when Ryan, NOT Mularkey, is calling the plays.”
And that’s the difference. You can see it. You can chart it. The offense responds to Matt Ryan calling the plays. They do NOT respond to Mike Mularkey calling the plays. If anyone is doubting that after the Carolina game, they’re just too stupid to be allowed to live. It was right in front of our faces… AGAIN. One half, Mularkey called the plays, the offense did NOTHING. The second half, Ryan called the plays, and suddenly it’s the Falcons offense we all envisioned after the Draft.
It’s not simply about Mularkey doing a poor job. That question is answered. It’s “Why is Mularkey even ALLOWED to call plays anymore?” And, “Why is Mularkey continually allowed by Smith to ruin the offense where there a MOUNTAINS of proof that Ryan is much better suited to call plays?”
The question has evolved. The coverage has not.
Indy falcon
December 18th, 2011
5:00 pm
winning championships has more to do with good things happening and a little luck than superior players at different positions such as qb. Ravens in 2000,Pats in 2003, and so forth…we can complain about anything..do we forget so fast 1998???? Was Chandler an elite qb? I think not…
Bravesfan79
December 18th, 2011
5:04 pm
Cant believe ESPN is debating on if Newton should get the last NFC QB spot over Ryan… THAT should be what were arguing today. Ryans plenty good enough to win a Super Bowl!
rm
December 18th, 2011
5:19 pm
ATLER- did you read the article…thought you techies were supposed to be smart
Hillbilly D
December 18th, 2011
5:30 pm
Today on the pre-game show, Jimmy Johnson gave his QB ratings. He said that Brady, Brees and Rodgers were the top tier. He had 4 in the 2nd tier Eli, Stafford and I forget the other two but Ryan wasn’t in there. I’d say that was about right. I’d rate Ryan below the 2nd tier but I would probably rate him as better than average. He’s good enough to win with, if the rest of the team is solid.
rm
December 18th, 2011
5:31 pm
ATLER- just try reading the title of the article. That should help you
Tom Brady
December 18th, 2011
5:32 pm
I’m just glad that he’s not a felon, got his degree and married the mother of his (future) children.
—————-
Well I guess you wouldn’t be happy with Tom Brady as the Falcons QB either because he’s got a child out of wedlock.
hiramsaint
December 18th, 2011
5:34 pm
so 0-2 in the post season is good enough?
Your Friend on FB
December 18th, 2011
5:44 pm
so when did he learn to throw the deep ball to earn this “best” title?
Your Friend on FB
December 18th, 2011
5:46 pm
Matty Ice has a noodle arm. Even Michael Vick Sorry can tell you that.
OldTimer
December 18th, 2011
5:51 pm
The QB position is good, if the rest of the guys step up we got this on lock.
Me
December 18th, 2011
5:59 pm
You want to know why people are so pessimistic when it comes to the Falcons and Matt Ryan? The Carolina Panthers, with their rookie QB (Cam Newton), beat the Texans today–in Texas–by two touchdowns. The Falcons and Mr. “Elite” Matt Ryan lost to the Texans, playing a 3rd string QB, and only scored 10 pts.
dawg4u
December 18th, 2011
6:00 pm
I don’t even think that Matt Ryan is the best qb the Falcons have had. My vote would go to Steve Bartkowski. Ryan would rank along side Chris Chandler and Mike Vick. That was a good point though that TD made – you really don’t need to have a super elite qb to compete for a Super Bowl. I believe that if Trent Dilfer, Mark Rypien, Doug Williams, Eli Manning and Jim McMahon can lead their teams to Super bowls then so can Ryan because he is arguably just as good if not better than those on the list mentioned.
Samuel L. Jackson
December 18th, 2011
6:10 pm
so much for the Vikings beating “the overrated Saints”…. lmao you clown ass dirty bird fans will never learn. Whipping a sorry Jax team doesn’t mean you have “arrived” or ready to go on a run. It means you did what you are supposed to do. Drew Brees OWNS the falcons.
10-2 against the dirty birds… don’t say I didn’t tell you so
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
6:11 pm
Dawg4U, you little idiot, NAME THE QB that has led the Falcons to 4 CONSECUTIVE WINNING SEASONS….Ryan is 42-20 in his career as a starting QB. 42 wins in 4 seasons. You do the math dumb butt. Matt Ryan will go down as THE best Falcon QB to suit up. He’ll also be a HOFamer. Maybe not with big, eye popping numbers, but he’ll win a Super Bowl. It’s his intangibles that make him great. Something you just can’t coach. You all want to look at numbers, but look at what he brings to the table. His smarts, his will to win.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
6:12 pm
Sam L. Jackson, I’m sorry but are the Vikings “Great” or even “good”? You beat a sorry ass Vikings team that owns a 2-12 record. Good thing you didn’t lose, or that would have been the 2nd 2 win team you would have lost to.
Tybee island
December 18th, 2011
6:14 pm
He has the tools and it factor. Just needs to work on the little details.
For more info on tybee island vacations: http://www.sandysbytheshore.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
6:14 pm
It’s funny how Aint fans want to trash us for beating the Jaguars like we did, but they beat the hapless Vikings and they’re “kings of the world”. GTFOutta here. Dumbazzes. The Jags have a better record than the Vikes last time I checked. Don’t be hypocritical. If it’s not ok for us to beat up on less fortunate teams, then it’s not ok for you. GTFO.
"Chef" Tim Dix
December 18th, 2011
6:14 pm
He’s second teir top 10, somewhere after six, that spot has to be occupied by Eli.
He has a ring.
willie
December 18th, 2011
6:19 pm
I agree 100% with the way you ranked the top 10 QBs. After those top 5, there is a clear drop and I wouldn’t take any of the others over Ryan. Stay hot, Falcons!
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
6:21 pm
Me . . ..slightly confused. So the Falcons beat the Panthers twice, but you use a victory by the Panthers over Texans as a reason to detract. I’ve never been one to compare games played by two different teams. There are various factors that come into each individual game. So just because the Saints lose to the at the time winless Rams, I don’t put any weight into that game having a factor on how the Saints and Falcons play each other.
Me
December 18th, 2011
6:31 pm
@Once Recent Reader,
I agree you can’t always compare games played by two different teams. But, I still think worthy of discussion considering Cam is rookie QB and the Panthers put up 28 pts today. The Falcons could only muster 10 points with Matt Ryan and Ryan is supposed to be a a top ten QB. I also think it’s worth mentioning that the Falcons have lost to every playoff team they have faced this season. As a season ticket holder, I want the Falcons to be successful just as much as the next fan, but I refuse to support this team with blind optimism.
duronimo
December 18th, 2011
6:31 pm
Ryan not the best deep passer and for most of the year has not been hitting his receivers in stride on shorter routes. But that’s changing. The pendulum is swinging in a very positive way. He’s playing better. Number 11 starting to take some short stuff to the house.
Mr. Charlie
December 18th, 2011
6:32 pm
Next week you can see an elite QB in action. Brees….Drew Brees.
Yankee
December 18th, 2011
6:37 pm
Ryan isn’t even the best QB in the division, much less the league. Only a scribbler for a cheap rag would entertain such a bizarre notion. The same cretin thinks Smith is the best Falcons coach ever, too.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
6:41 pm
ME . .I understand, but still don’t agree with using that argument. Teams play differently against other Teams. Players have bad games. I think the Falcons could have done better against Texans, but was not to be for various factors. Who knows what Texans were feeling today. If I were to be an oddsmaker taking educated guesses, I would assume they were much more into the playing the Falcons that week than Panthers this week. That was a big game with two teams playing pretty darn well the past several weeks. Hey, that’s just a guess on my part too. So how would you equate Rogers and Packers against the Chiefs today?? Or back to that Rams game against the Saints. Things happen. Two big weeks left. We’ll see what happens.
Next
December 18th, 2011
6:49 pm
No he’s not good enough. He has a weak arm. Get an arm like brees or rodgers and then yes. You and schultz keep writing these falcon pump articles. You got excited by a meaningless win over a lousy jax team. You’ll look like the clueless fools you are when N.O. wins by 20
ST
December 18th, 2011
6:51 pm
Schedule has been much easier the last 7 games. Duh
Paddy
December 18th, 2011
6:53 pm
Yankee……you ain’t from round here are you? No wonder folks don’t care for your kind much!
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
6:56 pm
@Next, are you really equating the “arms” of Rodgers and Brees? LOL, layoff the homemade shine, man.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
6:57 pm
New Orleans wins by 20? Tell me the last matchup where the Saints beat the Falcons by 20 points and I’ll go away for good.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
6:59 pm
It’s cute and almost adorable to watch the Taint trolls come on here, with their chest all puffed up, after beating the vi-queens.
Skeezix
December 18th, 2011
7:07 pm
Rodgers and Brady are the best. I really don’t know where Ryan ranks–top 10 somewhere.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:09 pm
Yankee . . but that is exactly what M Bradley wrote. Brees, Brady, Rogers, Manning (when playing) in a league of their own . . and Big Ben almost there. Then the next grouping, where he placed Bradley. So did you read the article??? Even the most ardent Ryan supporters understand he’s not in that league now . . .might never quite get there, but he has done well for the Falcs . . …..and yes we know they have not won in the Playoffs to this date.
Me
December 18th, 2011
7:10 pm
@Once Recent Reader
When the Rams beat the Saints it was early in the season. Every game is important, but early in the season it’s not unusual for teams to get caught looking ahead. The Packers have already secured a playoff spot and the their division, so losing today was not big deal. The Falcons; however, were fighting for their playoff lives against Houston and yet they only scored 10pts and lost to a 3rd string QB. But like you said, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see how everything plays out.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:10 pm
I meant “where he placed Ryan” . . .not Bradley. Although I’m sure M Bradley wouldn’t mind being in that next tier of QBs:)
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:14 pm
ME . . . ?????? You mean the Pack did not care about this game today?????? Texans were hot. The game against Falcons was a big game for the team and fans. I can’t get into their minds, but can only assume . .they assumed the Panthers would not be a problem. It happens. Even the Titans looked pretty good against the very hot Saints last week . . .and had the game for the taking if that pass in endzone (2nd last play) was a couple more inches ahead. I’m not defending anyone, just truly can’t figure out why folks match how teams play against other teams. Again . . .do you honestly believe this game meant nothing to the Pack?? But I will say, they may have had the same thoughts about Chiefs that I assume Texans had about Panthers.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:17 pm
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
6:59 pm
“It’s cute and almost adorable to watch the Taint trolls come on here, with their chest all puffed up, after beating the vi-queens.”
No more than when those pious Falcons trolls extoll their prowess… So much fir their “inconsistencies” on the road that the cretins were so vocal about… 8 more days of pointless insults and conjecture… Now spin that one, you fancy yourself the blog version of George Will… Prove it!
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:18 pm
Nice comeback by Lions. Falcons did have some help in Wild Card spot today with Bears and Giants losing . . . .would have been nice to go up one on the Lions too. But the Wildcard spot is the Falcs to win or lose. Could they have clinched a spot today??
Realist
December 18th, 2011
7:20 pm
So, Me, everyone else can have a let down, and you come up with an excuse. Falcons have a bad outing against a great D, and we are just awful. You aren’t close to making sense. It’s the NFL man… no one wins them all, as the Packers proved today. BTW, the Pack was still playing for home field advantage. Still, the Falcons are in great shape in the playoff race today. We are in if we win either of our last two games, and can actually clinch before the Saints game even kicks off with a few results between now and then.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:20 pm
JSS Saints definitely on a tear. Big game next week. These teams have played each other very tightly, at least the past two regular seasons. Should be a fun week on the blogs:)
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:23 pm
@ O.R.R….
It could be fun, but it is just going to be the usual… Borderline silly…
Samuel L. Jackson
December 18th, 2011
7:24 pm
Gregory,
The Saints beat the Falcons in 07 34-14. Please go away you jaded clown.
I wasn’t talking up the Saints win and putting down the Falcons. I was saying the Falcons did what they were supposed to do. That doesn’t mean they are going to win the superbowl as some of the delusional posters on this blog would have you believe (yourself included). Beating a bad Jax team is nothing to pound your chest about, just like I didn’t mention the Saints beating the Vikings being a big deal other than to say the Saints won.
Saints fans brag over Atlanta because you have been OWNED since Brees arrived with the Saints. It has nothing to do with other opponents. 9-2 and about to be 10-2 speaks for itself.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:25 pm
Yeah, I forgot to use my typical ” “s around the word fun.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:27 pm
Three teams have made road statements so far today… New England, the Lions, and even against the lowly and bad Vikings, the Saints… They did pretty much everything they wanted after the first half mistakes…
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
7:29 pm
I agree JSS, I’m going to try to stay away for the next week, lots of pointless chest thumping and endless predictions rooted more in emotion than objective reality. Both the Falcons and Saints did what they should have done with their respective opponents. And they typically play close, hard fought games against each other. Saints should be favored, at home. But the birds have 6 very solid quarters of “momentum.” We’ll see.
Boy, Stafford had a game today.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:30 pm
They sure did. Would have like to be the only Wildcard Team sitting at 9/5. But as mentioned, the Falcs have destiny in their own hands. One very tough game ahead, and one they should take. No givens!
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
7:31 pm
Sam Jackson, was Ryan here in 07? Oh ok.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:31 pm
Too much of that silliness like devolve into about their college teams… I’ve never said the Saints will bury the Falcons, but Peyton has been like Swiss Bank against the last three Atlanta coaches…
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
7:33 pm
If the Bears and Giants lose next week, the Falcons would clinch before they even played the Saints. At least a 6th seed. If the Lions, Bears, and Giants lose the Falcons would be in the playoffs.
Samuel L. Jackson
December 18th, 2011
7:33 pm
Saints will complete the season sweep on MNF. The Saints lowest point output of the year in the Superdome is 27. The Falcons will have to score at least that many to win. IT AIN’T HAPPENING!!!!
Last time Roddy White ran his mouth about how the Falcons were going to win, how did that work out? Oh that’s right, the Saints came into the GA Dome and served the Falcons an ‘L’.
TELL ME WHAT DO FALCONS DO?!?!?!?!?!?!
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH LAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY EGGS!!!
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:34 pm
Just thinking. Other than that Green Bay play-off debacle, how many games have there been since 2008 when they did not have some sort of chance in the end? Chicago this year, Eagles games (2?), I guess we can say the Pack game this year too. Even when they’ve played below fan expectations, they’ve often still had a chance. Not sure what that means.
Gregory
December 18th, 2011
7:34 pm
Pretty much the Falcons are going to make the playoffs, it’s what they do while there that matters. Personally, I want the Saints in the 1st round. We play them so tough it could go either way. The look on Drew Brees’ face today after the Vikes game when he was being interviewed was full of dread when the reporter mentioned the Falcons.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
7:34 pm
C’mon JSS, I feel like Pacino in GodFather III…I was just about to shut down when I saw you claimed the Saints win today was one of three “statement” games by road teams. What? That needs some ’splainin.
Oh, and yes, apparently I was off base in your mysterious work. You aren’t so mysterious after all, if one just bothers to make a few clicks. Or in your case, you what, say “click” into your 21st century voice recognition software?
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:36 pm
Denver in ‘08 just throttled them…
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:36 pm
Gregory, well maybe Brees is just a smart person . . and a good actor:) I’m sure he respects the Falcons team/talent . . . . .I’m also sure he does not dread the Falcons.
Samuel L. Jackson
December 18th, 2011
7:38 pm
Gregory,
You didn’t keep your promise about going away. In your statement you didn’t say anything about Ryan being a member of the team. All you said was to show you the last time the Falcons lost to the Saints by 20 and you’ll go away. Your coach choked just like Matt Ryan does in the matchup in the GA Dome this year.
Sean Payton has gotten in Mike Smith’s head because he consistently whips him when it counts. Enjoy Marty Schottenheimer 2.0 and early exits from the playoffs
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:38 pm
That was the 2nd best offensive half of football that they have played on the road in 3 years… That is not a pro Saints statement, they were Green Bay on January 15th good in that 2nd half….
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
7:38 pm
Oh, and everyone who is dismissing Ryan’s stats/record of late given the strength of opponents, check out Turner’s production against those same opponents.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
7:40 pm
JSS . . just went back and looked. That was 24-20 win by Broncos. Falcs seemed to have lead but lost it in the 4th. But I did find they lost 24-9 to both the Bucs and the Panthers early in the season.
ATLCHRIS
December 18th, 2011
7:40 pm
What i cant seem to comprehend is that it does not matter what falcons do. They are always hated on. Last year they beat every team they played that mattered in the regular season.i.e. Saints, Ravens, Packers, but it was not good enough. Now this year all we hear is they have not beat anyone yet. THey get knocked no matter what. Even if they do man up and beat the saints as someone commented earlier, you will hear people saying it is just the regular season. Bottom line is the Falcons need a win in the post season.
worn out
December 18th, 2011
7:41 pm
u can’t be an elite quarterback if u are running for ure life on every play.. sam baker will get matt killed or maimed before he’s through…
Samuel L. Jackson
December 18th, 2011
7:42 pm
Yea Gregory,
Saints fans are so full of envy of the Falcons lol. I mean the fact that the Saints have a Superbowl ring and Atlanta doesn’t give the Saints fans all the reason in the world to be jealous.
I am sure you’re right as well… Brees absolutely dreads playing the Falcons since he is 9-2 against them as a Saint and regularly torches them for 300+ yards when they meet.
Go away clown!!!
Me
December 18th, 2011
7:43 pm
Realist
December 18th, 2011
7:20 pm
So, Me, everyone else can have a let down, and you come up with an excuse. Falcons have a bad outing against a great D, and we are just awful. You aren’t close to making sense.
—————————
How’s this for “sense”… the Falcons have lost to every playoff team they have faced this season. The Packers and Saints have both lost games they shouldn’t have, but they also consistently beat quality teams. Other than Detroit–who if the season ended today would not be in the playoffs–what quality teams have the Falcons beat?
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
7:43 pm
@JSS, right….and the Saints put up that production against a stout defense. The commentators on television (Lynch, I think) were talking about how the Vikings defense flat out gave up en masse, except for Allen. Whatever dude, go find all the articles out there by football experts falling over themselves to anoint that half of football a “statement”.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
7:43 pm
That Denver game in 2008 was the one wherein Roddy White dropped a pass in the end zone near the end. Would’ve been a great catch, but he had his hands on it.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
7:44 pm
Detroit would be in the playoffs if the season ended today.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
7:45 pm
Uh, Me…when you say they’ve lost to every “playoff” team, how exactly are you defining that? Detroit is a playoff team right now.
Samuel L. Jackson
December 18th, 2011
7:47 pm
Hey Mark Bradley,
At this point wouldn’t you say it’s pretty obvious at this point that sums up White’s whole career???? He has had a number of those crucial drops, kind of obvious at this point he is good at running his mouth, but doesn’t deliver in the clutch.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:48 pm
They held Turner to 3.2 a carry… The falcons were winners of 4 out of 5, and the myth about home invincibility had started up… And it was Jay Cutler at his worse, just before the Shannahan departure. They score the go ahead TD early in the 4th and they just throttled them… Sure they drove down while Denver keep everything in front of them… It was close in score only… Go look at the Game Track, they took to them to woodshed…
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:49 pm
“kept”
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
7:50 pm
So here’s some classic JSS math and logic:
1. Atlanta losing to Denver 24-20 in 2008 (according to one poster here, I didn’t check) is a “throttling” and being “taken to the woodshed”
2. New Orleans win over the Vikings today was a “statement” game
Do I have that right JSS?
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
7:52 pm
As I recall — and at my age memory is faulty — Ryan threw the pass against Denver off a scramble running right. White got his hands on it while falling in the end zone.
It was also, if I recall correctly, the week after the epic comeback victory over the Bears, the one that galvanized the season.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:53 pm
Now if you’re just talking blowouts, that is not their MO because they just ground pound you and use clock… Those types rarely get blowed out unless it gets away early… That is what happened in Philly last year… They had a plan and a just ran away like an Kenyan in an Olympic marathon…
Me
December 18th, 2011
7:56 pm
u can’t be an elite quarterback if u are running for ure life on every play
——————————
The o-line is better than people want to give them credit for. Michael Turner is 3rd in the league in rushing, and Matt Ryan has only been sacked 26. Compare that to the sack totals of Tony Romo (30), Aaron Rodgers (36), Ben Rothlisberger (35), Stafford (29), Eli Manning (24) and Drew Brees (24), and Tom Brady (23). Relatively speaking, Ryan has been protected pretty well.
The ATL!
December 18th, 2011
7:57 pm
After that blowout win over jacksonville, the falcons are on fire! Look for a deep playoff run and an upset over green bay to win the NfC!!! Smith and Dimitroff — the best in the business! Falcons v. Patriots in the Super bowl—bet the house!
JSS
December 18th, 2011
7:57 pm
No, you not right… That Denver team was in search of an identity, one weekthey’d throw 400 yards, the next they’d get the stew beat out of them… It was a throttling because they out Falcon’d the Falcons… They ran Hillis and Pope, and Cutler who was horrible that day beat the Falcons with basically 2 receivers Marshall and Graham… The Denver defense played in the Atlanta backfield the entire last 3 quarters
realitycheck
December 18th, 2011
8:00 pm
Mark………Is this just the first of many “try to hype up the fan base before the Saints game” articles that you will write this week? The Falcons have beaten TWO teams with winning records this season. They have no draft next season, nor any cap room to manuver during free agency. The Falcons beat the teams they should, but rarely do they win against the elite. Matt Ryan is decent, just like the Falcons are.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
8:01 pm
When you win on the road when you’re supposedly “road challenged>” It is a statement game when hang a 42 on the scoreboard… What was the score at half time again?
Me
December 18th, 2011
8:03 pm
@ijonathan
I forgot about Detroit.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:09 pm
I love when people bring up sack totals to “prove” that the ATL line is not bad in pass protection. Give me a break. Watch the games. These same people will slam Ryan for throwing the ball away, which is what he has to do to AVOID the sack. Get it?
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:11 pm
realtycheck, why would Bradley need to hype the Saints game? Does anyone with a functioning brain think this game will not be close?
Halsey
December 18th, 2011
8:19 pm
Only idiots can’t see that Matt Ryan is one of the 10 best QBs in the NFL. It’s not even worth debating. Ryan is the second best QB the Falcons have ever had, behind only Bartkowski.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
8:19 pm
@ Mark Bradley…
That was the game (Denver) actually was the week before Thanksgiving… The week after they beat the Saints at home and two weeks after winning in Oakland…
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
8:20 pm
REX RYAN POST GAME COMMENT:
“My defense was afraid to attack Mike Vick”
That has to be the quote of NFL History!
Name one coach who supports their team like Rex Ryan that would say that about his team?
When have you heard any coach say they were afraid of the BUST, well except his own teammates.
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
8:22 pm
Anybody witness that dismandling of a top 3 defense in Philly?
That’s why he got two 100 million dollar contracts.
You don’t give 100 million to a player who faces 4 straight rookie qbs and still struggle to win.
old man
December 18th, 2011
8:25 pm
My jury is still out on Ryan’s long throws. Intermediate and short, I have no problem. He throws pinpoint and perfectly timed frozen ropes on quick and intermediate out patterns. Strongest arm in the league? No. Top half? Yes. Major issue is extending the play, but he is equal to Brady on that (neither are very good). His primary asset is calling the right play, making the right decision, and leading the team. He is elite in that category, and in case you haven’t noticed, that is the most important quality for a QB–witness Jeff George. No one ever accused him of being a noodle arm. So you want him as your QB?
I watched Brady and Brees play today. THEY HAD ALL FREAKIN’ DAY TO THROW! If Ryan had the same amount of time, he would be moving up a couple of notches in this unofficial top ten. We need to draft some O-Line.
extremus
December 18th, 2011
8:26 pm
Time will tell if the Falcons’ fortunes have truly turned; it was only two weeks ago when they’d lost to a 3rd-tier quarterback at Houston. Perhaps a fire got lit under them during halftime at Carolina, when it looked like the season was dissolving away; perhaps their recent success can be attributed to their past two opponents (Carolina and Jacksonville), who aren’t exactly elite teams.
I don’t say that to be pessimistic or needlessly critical, only to point out that unlike other pro sports, football gives us a full week to revel in or ruminate over the results of the last game. Matt Ryan, Mike Smith, and the entire organization know full well that there are yet more albatrosses to break free of, including winning a playoff game and bringing an NFL championship to Atlanta. Until those things happen, the most loyal and dedicated Falcons fans will always have their enthusiasm tempered by guarded optimism and the memories of so many disappointments in years past.
Me
December 18th, 2011
8:26 pm
love when people bring up sack totals to “prove” that the ATL line is not bad in pass protection. Give me a break. Watch the games. These same people will slam Ryan for throwing the ball away, which is what he has to do to AVOID the sack. Get it?
———————————-
Why are sack totals not important? Some of the “elite” QB’s have been sacked more than Ryan. And I GUARANTEE you they have thrown the ball away just as much. Get it?
I’m not here to bash Ryan. I think he’s a decent QB, but I refuse to be a blind loyalist.
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
8:28 pm
The Falcons are 27-2 when Turner has 20 or more carries.
The Falcons are 4-11 when the BUST throws 40 or more passes.
How does that equate to qb elite status?
Anyone?
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
8:30 pm
Pretty simple, really. Teams that run effectively tend to get ahead and stay there. Teams that fall behind have to pass on every down.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:32 pm
“And I GUARANTEE you they have thrown the ball away just as much. Get it? ”
Gaurantee with all caps? You best do your research, then talk. Oh yeah, and be sure to find out how much they are slammed for it too. lol.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
8:33 pm
For example, the Eagles quarterback threw only 22 passes today and his team scored 45 points. LeSean McCoy rushed for 102 yards.
tom
December 18th, 2011
8:33 pm
He is not and probably will not ever be. Very good? Yes. Top tier. No. He and the Falcons have lost what they once had. Don’t know if they can get it back. Packers lost because Chiefs would not let Rodgers do what he does best. Falcons could not do that last year.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:34 pm
Thanks, Mark. Tired of these fools. Does anyone really think Turner was the difference in those 20 or more carry games? Please.
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
8:35 pm
The Falcons have lost 20 regular season games since 2008.
By your logic, that only accounts for 11 losses.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:35 pm
Why would anyone have to be a “blind loyalist” to appreciate what Ryan has done (the point of Mark’s article)?
No zip on the ball
December 18th, 2011
8:36 pm
Look. Matt Ryan is beating the teams he should beat, and in big games he simply struggles. I am a Falcon fan, and have been for a long time. I am pulling for ATL and Ryan to succeed.
The issue is pretty plain and clear. Ryan is not elite. He is a good QB, who watches lots of film and know how to avoid the big turnover. That in a QB is great. He is the top rated QB on play action passes, so when the Falcons run the ball, Ryan excels. When he throws it 40+ times a game a la 2011 – we are 1and 4, with a win over Seattle.
I have smacked Ryan around on the blog pretty hard – mostly due to a timid pocket presence, happy feet, bail-out back foot throws and sliding short of would-be first downs. This performance, despite that ga-zillion drops he has encountered, has become a bit chronic, especially in big games where he have to rely on his arm to win the game.
We can blame Mularkey, the o-line, the butterfingered wide outs, etc. The bottom line is, an elite QB wins games throwing 40+ times. Ryan just has not had the wins that demonstrate that he is a winner by default more than leadership, skill and moxie.
MNF is a great venue to show the NFL that he is on his way. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
8:38 pm
@Mark
That doesn’t seem to be the case in New England – does it?
Enough excuses. If you are going to throw out that “elite” word, it doesn’t come with reasons “why not”.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:39 pm
One should never talk to an idiot who uses the term “BUST” for a players name, and who loves a dog killer.
Just Wondering
December 18th, 2011
8:40 pm
Why O Why do saints fans come on this blog and tell falcons fans to go away??? GTFO HERE with the bull ish!!!! You say falcons fans are full of it you must be crazy to come on here and go dig up old games from 2007 to try and make a falcons fan leave a falcons blog. You’re an idiot with nothing to do at all. You probably not even a saints fan just a clown.
Just Wondering
December 18th, 2011
8:42 pm
If y’all were real saints fans you would be on saints blogs not EVERY FALCONS BLOG!!! Btw, Ryan is not elite but he can be. All those elite quarterbacks mentioned took time to become elite and win super bowls.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
8:42 pm
But hasn’t been Reid’s MO? Even when had Westborook, he never ran him enough considering his talent…
It’s been one of biggest qualms with the Falcons, if you’re a running team (IE the 1990 NY Giants), don’t shy away from it…
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
8:42 pm
Didn’t the Falcons lose to both the Saints & Bucs this season?
Don’t they finish with both of those teams?
If they finish 9-7 that will not get you in.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
8:46 pm
Salary obsessed dude, Mark DID NOT say Ryan was “elite.”
” I’d put him in the second tier” — Mark Bradley
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
8:47 pm
JSS
December 18th, 2011
8:01 pm
When you win on the road when you’re supposedly “road challenged>” It is a statement game when hang a 42 on the scoreboard… What was the score at half time again?
=====
Uh, what is your point exactly? New Orleans led 21-13 at half, and scored another 21 points in the second half. The Falcons 2nd half against Carolina was even more impressive from a points perspective (24) and the Falcons are also vilified for being homers/road challenged.
And as I recall, you and others were completely dismissive of the Falcons win over the Panthers.
Unless you think Ponder is much better than Newton, making it harder for the Saints to beat the Vikings than the Falcons to beat the Panthers? That must be it.
So, again, to recap:
Falcons crushing the Panthers in the 2nd half…nothing to see here, move along.
Saings crushing a Vikings squad that simply gave up in the 2nd half…wow that is a STATEMENT
Me
December 18th, 2011
8:48 pm
Gaurantee with all caps? You best do your research, then talk. Oh yeah, and be sure to find out how much they are slammed for it too. lol.
————
The caps are for emphasis. Geesh! What does public opinion about throwing the ball away have to do with comparing sack totals? The fact (yes, fact) is Ryan has been sacked no more than any of the elite QB’s. If Ryan had been sacked a disproportionate amout of times compared to Aaron Rodgers, Brees, Brady, etc… I would be more inclined to blame the o-line. But as it stands, he’s had just as many opportunities to be productive as anyone else. I guess that’s the difference between a “great” QB and a “good” QB. The great ones just have the ability to consistently make plays, regardless of the circumstances.
No Shock
December 18th, 2011
8:50 pm
No way! Matt Ryan is an average NFL quarterback
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
8:50 pm
The Saints are a good team. Nobody is — or should be, anyway — arguing that. But the Falcons are pretty good, too. And they’re capable of winning in New Orleans. I believe they won in New Orleans last season.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
8:50 pm
JSS
December 18th, 2011
8:42 pm
But hasn’t been Reid’s MO? Even when had Westborook, he never ran him enough considering his talent…
It’s been one of biggest qualms with the Falcons, if you’re a running team (IE the 1990 NY Giants), don’t shy away from it…
===
Uh, no. One of the “qualms” with the Falcons, at least from some of us, is not that they “aren’t a running team.” If you have an iffy offensive line and a rapidly declining Turner (some of you must simply refuse to look up stats, the decline is evident in the numbers and your eyes) AND you are in a QB-driven league, then you win and lose with Ryan and the receivers (and the pass blocking abilities of the line.) Sure, it is nice to have a running threat to keep defenses off balance. But sorry, Turner is no longer a threat.
No zip on the ball
December 18th, 2011
8:50 pm
I think Bradley is trying to instill some holiday cheer and hope for us Falcons fans. My concern is that in a QB league, the ELITE QBs going forward will be the difference. Follow the money and trends. Rodgers, Brees, Brady, Big Ben, Peyton and Eli – those are elite QBs, proven commodities with hardware to show for it.
As far as the next rung – I’m not sure Ryan is in that group. Just in the NFC – you have more consistent 3rd down playmakers – Cutler, Stafford, Vick , Romo and as mush as it pains me to say it – Cam Newton is on his way.
So – as we look into the crystal ball – I don’t see Ryan’s skill set improving enough to pass Brees, and due to lack of mobility and arm strength – I see him having a hard time holding off Cam Newton. That relegates the Falcons to 3rd best QB in the NFC – and Josh Freeman is no slouch.
I think the franchise, with a soon to be 5th yr NFL QB – needs to at least bring in a mobile and seasoned back up. Our O-line is no worse than New Orleans or any other. You have to have a QB who can extend plays with his feet to put more pressure on the defense.
rm
December 18th, 2011
8:51 pm
How stupid are some of these people…no one is saying Ryan is elite. Only that he is good enough to win. Read the title of the article at least…That mean you 72. Let me know if I need to s l o w down for you and explain it again. Again no one is say he is elite. Comprehend that??? You look like a fool with your argument but thanks for the laugh
Great Falconi
December 18th, 2011
8:52 pm
It’s a mistake to think that Matt Ryan isn’t any better now than he was when he came into the league. We’ve seen his growth as a player just from the success he has had calling his own plays. Of course he’s better, and most QBs really hit their stride as passers in their late twenties. Ryan turns 27 next March. I’m not crazy enough to expect Matt Ryan to be a Hall of Famer, but I do expect him to be the best QB this franchise has ever had because of his ability to read defenses and to distribute the ball. That ability makes him the foundation for this club now and in the years to come.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
8:52 pm
I wouldn’t write off Michael Turner just yet. He’s third in the NFL in yards rushing.
Anderson
December 18th, 2011
8:54 pm
Mark Bradley, your recollection of the Denver game in 2008 is crystal clear. That is exactly how that play/pass by Ryan/drop by R White occurred.
I agree with the person who said that Matt Ryan is a second tier top 10 NFL QB. I have him about #7 or #8. Ryan’s career is progressing nicely when compared to the first four years of other currently elite NFL QBs such as Drew Brees, Phillip Rivers, and Eli Manning.
I firmly believe that when Matt Ryan’s NFL career ends he will have a Super Bowl win or two. He is just a winner,pure and simple. He and WR Julio Jones will be a lethal combination for years to come.
As for the here and now (2011),it will be very interesting which QB (Manning,Newton,Romo,Ryan, or Stafford) gets that 3rd NFC Pro Bowl QB spot. I would give the slight edge to M Ryan over Romo and/or Stafford. Newton has great stats overall but he is lacking in the wins column.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
8:55 pm
@MB, have you checked out Turner’s YPC? Check out the seasonal trend, and the trend within this season. It isn’t pretty. And by the way, this is a passing league now. It isn’t the middle part of the last decade when the Larry Johnsons, Sean Alexanders, Priest Holmes and Jamal Lewis’s of the world were dominating the stats and the fantasy leagues. Put this year’s running stats against that era and you wouldn’t be touting Turner. And you shouldn’t.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
8:55 pm
72 Mill . . …what is so confusing here? Again – M Bradley has pretty clearly indicated that (See Title of Column) that Brees, Brady, Rogers, and Manning are in the Elite league of their own. Big Ben . .in his own category following them . . . .then some pretty good QBs (yep:) ) . .that is where he puts Ryan. Why do folks try and twists the wording of the article as the blog grapevine grows. Brees – better than Ryan. Manning (Peyton) – better than Ryan. Brady and Rogers . . .better than Ryan. Big Ben – better than Ryan. The rest . . . . Ryan would be in the upper crust of the rest. No one called him Elite!!! 90% of the Ryan Supporters on the blogs do NOT call him Elite. One day. Maybe. Not today.
Me
December 18th, 2011
8:56 pm
Why would anyone have to be a “blind loyalist” to appreciate what Ryan has done (the point of Mark’s article)?
————————-
You wouldn’t be a blind loyalist for appreciating Ryan. Don’t take the comment out of context. The blind loyalist comment was in response to an earlier comment that stated Ryan would be elite if the Falcons had a better o-line. I simply pointed out that Ryan has be sacked no more than his “elite” peers.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
8:58 pm
@ORR, perfectly said. About half way through this season, I think we could all agree that Ryan was a pretty average QB (and not even that on a couple of occasions). 14 games in, I think we are very safe to call him well above average/upper crust of the third tier as defined by the article (i.e. lower part of the top 10).
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:01 pm
And I gave them credit for the comeback… I also called the Vikings very bad,,, The Saints NEVER trailed, they were never scrambling for their playoff life… I said they made MISTAKES in the first half… This one of the reasons I’ve become so caustic… You can put a lot of words on me, but it is a statement, because multiple bloggers keep making a point of the Seattle game last January. They make a point of bring up the Rams (while dismissing the Tampa) which they never led by the way… You can’t have it both ways (those who gripe on New Orleans)…
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:04 pm
So there’s the difference, one favored team went on the road, and when from start of the game until the end of it, they never trailed, they put up 21 and 21 in each half and they held the opponent under 100 yards of offense until well into the 4th quarter… They made a statement today…
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:07 pm
One of the three QBs below is the QB rating for each of the first 5 years for Ryan, with the 5th year, this year, being year to date. Which one is Ryan, and who are the other two with their first 5 full seasons’ worth of QB ratings?
86.5 87.8 71.2
85.7 87.7 90.7
85.9 80.9 94.7
92.6 91.0 84.1
92.3 90.5 88.8
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:08 pm
Ryan is 40-20, not 42-20….
He missed 2 back in 09…
Regardless, at least we’re in the discussion again this year in the theoretical middle years of my life.
That wasn’t the case until I was 41 yrs old….long time coming.
I want a title badly though!
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:08 pm
JSS . . trust me I’m not harping on this although it may come off that way in blog. But I went back to the Denver game and read Recap / Box Score (ESPN). Now, I know stats can sometimes not reflect game. I can’t recall this one very well, so if it was a dominant performance by Broncos, it would not be reflected in stats. Very close. Actually the Falcs lead in most, 1st downs, yards passing and russhing was even – Denver +10 yds, Time of Poss. Falcs had it for 7 1/2 minutes more . . .but not in the all important final score. Again, I know sometimes stats can “tell a lie”. I do have a vague recollection of that being a very frustrating game . . .but that is vague.
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:08 pm
One of the three QBs below is the QB rating for each of the first 5 years for Ryan, with the 5th year, this year, being year to date. Which one is Ryan, and who are the other two with their first 5 full seasons’ worth of QB ratings?
86.5 87.8 71.2
85.7 87.7 90.7
85.9 80.9 94.7
92.6 91.0 84.1
92.3 90.5 88.8
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:08 pm
JSS, I never begrudge the Saints anything. I think they are an elite team, with elite players, and I’m not confident the Falcons will win on the 26th or in the playoffs…although I wouldn’t discount it.
But for you to seize on that game today and call it a statement is just absolutely mind boggling. I used the Falcons/Carolina game as a comparison because it had some similarities.
But whatever. You get yourself all excited about the super awesome game the Saints played today if that makes you feel better about the NFL world, and your NFL world view.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
9:08 pm
@Me 8:56 pm
I’m simply pointing out, although I don’t have the stats, that the ATL O-line has been terrible at pass blocking for much of the year (Svitek has helped shore it up lately). It hasn’t ever been very good during most Ryan’s tenure, imho. Interestingly enough, Ryan’s play has improved dramatically along with the improved play of the line this year.
I saw some of the Saints game during a Christmas party today. Brees sure had tons of time to stand back threre unpressured. Just an observation.
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:09 pm
Ryan is the middle column. Brady is on the left. Peyton Manning is on the right.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:11 pm
And for all the heck I take here (perception wise), I always say this… You’d be crazy to bet the spread when it comes to any NFC South team when they play Tampa, home or away… That excludes the Panthers, they have some strange power over the Bucs… Everybody else, they cover or are very close to the line…
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:11 pm
@ORR…don’t bother with stats or facts. Denver absolutely OWNED the Falcons that game. Don’t forget, JSS watched every snap of every game that year, and algorithmically analyzed every snap in his voice-activated super-computer. Don’t argue with him!
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:13 pm
And Manning, the QB that Ryan has outplayed for 3 of his first 5 years in the league, compared to Manning’s first 5 years, is now apparently worth 14 or so wins a year.
No zip on the ball
December 18th, 2011
9:15 pm
Bill Parcells always says – “you are what your record says you are.” Ryan and the Falcons are 10th in the NFL in passing yardage and QBR. 9-6 record with 2 games to go against two teams that you are 0-2 collectively against this season.
Ryan, since 2008 is 3-12 when passing 40+ times. 2 of the wins were home wins over SF (2010) and BAL (2010). The Seattle road win this year was his first road win of his career throwing 40+ times. That, I’m afraid has to tell you something.
Also, we are still 0-2 in the post season with a risking 5th year NFL starter. I think what some are asking is this:
1. should we expect more for $72 million
2. Has this improved franchise hit a ceiling
3. Will it get any better while the rest of the NFL
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:15 pm
The only similarities in those games were points at half in the abstract… The Saints were out gaining, outplaying and outhitting the Vikings… Yeah, they made mistakes (the fumbles), but the performance curve was huge… And from the 8 minute of the 2nd quarter unti when they called off the dogs it was ugly…
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:16 pm
@MB, not to harp on this, but what you voiced about the run generally and Turner specifically seems to be a widespread feeling.
Yes, Turner is 3rd in yards. However, if you take the top 30 running backs in the NFL in terms of yards, Turner is a whopping 25th in YPC.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:18 pm
ijonathan . . .it makes me think of the Ravens and a little of the Packer regular season games last year. This may cause a disturbance in the force . . .but I thought we owned them those games . . . . .but they somehow found a way to make it close. I know this one opens me up to a lot of criticism, or the old Falcs don’t play a complete game. I thought in those cases they did. They owned those teams enough early and then owned them again at the end when needed:)
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:19 pm
I like Turner fine. But I would sure change tailbacks before I changed quarterbacks.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:19 pm
See ORR, this has become a recurring problem… He mistake our discussion as argument… Of course, we know better… And ijonathan… I wouldn’t waste a good algorithm on this mess… But I’ve 96% percent of every game since 2004…
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:19 pm
Yes JSS, it is much more impressive for the Saints to pour it on in a game they were already leading against a non-division rival, quitting Vikings squad with Christian Ponder throwing high, wide and in the dirt…than for the Falcons to come back from a big deficit, on the road, against a division rival with Superman at QB.
Tell me how I’m wrong.
Unless you want to finally admit that Ponder is better than Newton.
The Boss
December 18th, 2011
9:20 pm
“JSS” and “72 Million Bust” :
Two sad little f’ers. Why do some of you even bother replying to any of their drivel? Same old stale arguments. “Bust” shows up only after his dream boy MV returns. Go away guys. No one who has a real life gives a crap what you type.
To everyone else, Support YOUR team. Enjoy wins, get angry after losses, but life goes on. It’s a damn game guys! Going back and forth comparing losses , wins, etc. What a bunch of 4th grade childish BullSh1t!
You guys make reading these blogs a total bore.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:21 pm
You’re 96% of what?
BulldogBen
December 18th, 2011
9:22 pm
Uh, let’s win a playoff game first. I mean, yeah, you’re right, Trent Dilfer won a freaking ring.
Bottom line, Ryan is a good, not great, QB which is fine. That still doesn’t put is in the top 5 or 6 teams currently favored ahead of us to win the Super Bowl.
Kobe Bryant's divorce lawyer
December 18th, 2011
9:23 pm
If they Falcons lose by two TD’s on Monday night, Ryan lovers will blame Murlarky, the defense, the o-line, and/or the receivers. It’s never Ryan’s fault. If Ryan just had a bettert 0-line, better receivers, a better defense and a better offensive coordinator, they swear he would lead the Falcons to a Super Bowl. Nevermind the fact that the Falcons have the second rated defense in ALL of the NFC, good for ninth in the NFL, the 3rd leading rusher (Turner) and a receiver who ranks 6th in catches (White). Nope… Ryan just doesn’t have the pieces around him like Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 18th, 2011
9:24 pm
Sure, Matt Ryan is good enough to win a Super Bowl. So are about 15-20 other QBs, including two or three who are going to be drafted in April. The idea that only elite QBs win championships is a myth perpetuated by the media. Put enough great players around a QB and you can win a Super Bowl. Ask Trent Dilfer.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:25 pm
Boss – please go away….you are what you type, you doof.
Release Ray Lewis!
Kobe Bryant's divorce lawyer
December 18th, 2011
9:27 pm
You guys make reading these blogs a total bore.
———–
No one is forcing you…
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:27 pm
And “Throttled” is not “owned” When shut down a team for well over 60% of a game and there only three drives of the 2nd half end in 148 total yards in the entire half with a INT, one TD, and last drive you turn the ball over on downs to lost the game… You were throttled…
But here’s a better one from 08 but I generally don’t like to bring up road games when talking about the Falcons because it has been the bug-a-boo big time, especially against quality teams… Go look up that egg they laid in Tampa…
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:27 pm
I don’t want to win a playoff game.
I want to win the NFC championship at a bare minimum and preferably a super bowl…
Fire FG in the meantime!
Ryan > Tebow / Brees
December 18th, 2011
9:28 pm
Ryan is better than Tebow or Brees and will prove it this year in the playoffs—Ryan will light it up against New Orleans—book it.
No zip on the ball
December 18th, 2011
9:28 pm
@ old man -
Same drill….Which one is Ryan
Post season Games…………..19…….0………7
Post-season WINS…………….14…….0………4
SB Rings………………………….3……..0………1
Brady on the left. Eli on the right.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
9:28 pm
Ryan is 42-20, and that’s counting the two playoff losses.
He was 11-6 in 2008, 9-5 in 2009 (with the two missed starts, both losses) and 13-4 last season. He’s 9-5 in this one.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 18th, 2011
9:29 pm
In fact, I’ll go a step further — the idea that wins and losses are a meaningful way to judge a quarterback is another myth perpetuated by the media. Wins and losses don’t mean anything more for a QB than they do for a pitcher in baseball.
Joe Tess Fish House
December 18th, 2011
9:30 pm
Matt Ryan is just anoter looser fist round draft bust. So waht he has a big game against a loosing team like Jax he is supposed 2. He trhow 2 many INTS that caused them a lot of wins.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
9:30 pm
Well, in this case it’s a myth also perpetuated by the Falcons’ head coach.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:30 pm
I guess that’s right, Mark. My brain is locked down, I guess…
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:32 pm
I’m tired….
That last post sounds moronic…
Then again, most of my posts are moronic, though not in the same way as many around here.
Did i just see emotion on the Norv Turner face? Shocker…
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:34 pm
Amen, Davenpoop…
And joe tess…you need to check into a mental health facility immediately…
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:35 pm
At ORR…
That is why the Denver game sticks out… That game looks even on paper, but when dig down and see that the majority of the Falcons 1st downs came on two drives in the 1st half… The 2nd half, they only touched it 3 (yes 3 times)… The results were 31, 77 (the lone drive), and panic drive that closed the game 41 yards…
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:36 pm
Ryan is certainly a top third QB in the league…
We could easily win a SB with him IF AND ONLY IF the pieces around him perform too…
Ryan doesn’t play D…
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:38 pm
ijonathan – I do concur that JSS and I do have discussions and not arguments. And often we are both trying to discuss the other into our respective corners of thought.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:38 pm
That Denver game 3 yrs ago was painful to watch…Denver did dominate us as I recall, yet but for the late drop, we still win the game.
The miracle Chicago win that yr remains a great memory.
Philip Rivers is an elite QB because his name is Philip…
Say what
December 18th, 2011
9:38 pm
You do have to wonder who the sock puppets are (cough, phil, cough)
Mike
December 18th, 2011
9:38 pm
@Najeh
You make some valid points. However, I would argue the Ravens team that won with Trent Dilfer had a once-in-a-lifetime defense. I think they only gave up 9pts a game that season. Look at the Colts without Manning, they went from a playoff team last year to a 0-13 this seson. Can you imagine Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers or Peyton Manning playing with Roddy White, Julio Jones and Tony G?
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:39 pm
That vague feeling of frustration during that Denver game is becoming less vague.
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:39 pm
Joe Tess, you need to back off on the sauce. It’s affecting your typing. And your thinking.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:40 pm
Katrina is why New Orleans will win…
It’s only fair.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:41 pm
Sauce?
It’s probably liquor…
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:41 pm
@ Phil…
Did you ever explain FG to poor Charlie?
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:42 pm
No one taking me up on my Turner argument, huh? That used to be such good bait. Maybe this pond is getting a little acidic.
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
9:43 pm
Eli Manning? Pretty good quarterback, right? Super Bowl winner, right?
He threw three interceptions today in a game that knocked the Giants out of first place. That’s his second three-interception game of the season. Both were losses — the first to Seattle, the second to Washington.
Know how many three-interception games Ryan has had in his career? One — at New Orleans in 2009.
Again, I’m not trying to say Ryan is the best in the business. He’s not. But he’s a very good NFL quarterback.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:44 pm
ijonathan – the Turner thing is another head twister. One week I’m reading how terrible he is . . OK every week. Then I’m reading how all those Falcon REGULAR:) season wins over the past 4 years are mostly because of him. The guy produces. It can look plodding at times ..often, but again the numbers don’t lie. I think.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:45 pm
We’ve seen it 4 times in our lifetime…. The 71 Colts, The underrated first Steelers D in 1975… The 85 Bears (scheme + players), and the 00 Ravens…
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:45 pm
JSS – no.
I didn’t realize he needed that help.
Charlie might be FG…
Mark Bradley
December 18th, 2011
9:47 pm
And this, just as an aside: I cannot believe we are replaying a four-point loss to Denver from 2008. The Falcons didn’t deserve to win but could have stolen it at the end. (Kind of like they did the San Fran game last season, in which Roddy White DID make the decisive play.)
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:47 pm
I never blame Turner, he’s always as good as his line… I don’t care if the hole has to be huge, just do it…
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:47 pm
85 and 00 were ALL defense….and a few murders in the case of 00…
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:48 pm
I think Eli is much more frustrating a “upper crust” QB than Ryan. I know folks want more from Ryan, but he does not seem to have the same inconsistency I’ve seen with Eli Manning. Eli seems to have more look great one game and terrible the next rotations. He even seems to have look great one half and terrible the next -vice/versa rotations. But he does have a SB. However, outside of that incredible last drive . . .does anyone doubt it was the Giants D that was the true MVP that game??
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:49 pm
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:44 pm
ijonathan – the Turner thing is another head twister. One week I’m reading how terrible he is . . OK every week. Then I’m reading how all those Falcon REGULAR:) season wins over the past 4 years are mostly because of him. The guy produces. It can look plodding at times ..often, but again the numbers don’t lie. I think.
====
No, he doesn’t produce, not lately. LIterally, any RB who is good enough to play in the NFL can accumulate decent total yardage statistics if you just hand him the ball enough. That is the Turner way. Now, to truly judge a regular, every-down running back (i.e. not the scat guy you bring in on 3rd and long who gains 12 yards because the defense is laying off) you should primarly look at YPC. And in that category, per my other posts, Turner is solidly in the bottom third of the league.
I may just post my dissertation from a few days ago on Turner and Ryan…seems like I have a small but focused audience tonight.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:50 pm
@ Phil..
I hope he was his normal sarcastic self…
@ Mark Bradley, the question was asked… Just saying!
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:50 pm
Agree with JSS on Turner….he needs a hole. Who generally doesn’t.
The guy keeps the clock moving. He wins us games by costing the other team a possession or 2. Rarely sexy but who cares.
Run on, Mike…
old man
December 18th, 2011
9:50 pm
sauce = booze
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:51 pm
JSS, agreed. Turner is no Adrian Petersen and doesn’t have the Barry Sanders-esque (note I added the -esque) ability to make something out of nothing . . but he has gotten it done more often than not.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:52 pm
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:47 pm
I never blame Turner, he’s always as good as his line… I don’t care if the hole has to be huge, just do it…
=====
That’s right, exactly right. You NEVER blame Turner, even if he should be blamed. But of course, Ryan is never judged by how good his line is. In another year or two, if Turner is even here, and he’s fallen to 2.5 YPC, I’m sure you and all the other hoodwinked bobbleheads will still be defending him.
Say what
December 18th, 2011
9:52 pm
“The Falcons didn’t deserve to win but could have stolen it at the end.”
That’s why we are discussing it. Since 2008, at least Ryan has helped make us competitive and given us a chance to win. What is it, 16 fourth quarter comebacks? 42 wins. Or maybe I should say Ryan and Roddy, because for all the times one or the other has failed, they have both been responsible for twice that in successes.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:52 pm
Eli Manning has NEVER been elite. Period.
Not even up for debate.
Fire Marv Levy!!
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:53 pm
I’ve seen them out-schemed during Smith’s time here a few times in a big way… But the Bears, the Steelers, and Broncos were the only teams that I’ve seen really just manhandle them… That was a very ugly half of football! ANd Shanahan didn’t even try to disguise it…
No zip on the ball
December 18th, 2011
9:53 pm
Yes, Eli is very inconsistent. The issue is he’s “good enough” to win 4 times in the post-season despite his ups and downs. His Super Bowl ring is consistently shiny, every day.
At least Eli is trying to make plays. I am going to assume being the QB in NYC adds a wee bit of pressure to the job as well.
He can also sling it 40 times a game and win about half of them.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
9:53 pm
Why don’t you guys list all the game breaking, turning point plays that Turner has racked up this year. You’re citing individual plays from a Denver game almost 4 years ago, you should be able to find at least 10-15 critical Turner plays from this season alone, right?
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:55 pm
ijonathan . . . I must have misread something. It seems we have ended up in opposite corners on opinions of Turner. It’s weird. I see the same plays that drive many nuts where he gets nothing, but in the end, he has over 1000 yards . . .and not many are “garbage time” yards. He just gets it done. There are those games against tough D lines where he basically is a non-factor . . .and yes, those end up being some tough games for Ryan as the D can focus in on him a bit more.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:55 pm
Old man – i was kidding.
72 Million Dollar Bust
December 18th, 2011
9:56 pm
Why is it taking so long to win in the playoffs when the Ravens make it look so easy?
The BUST and Flacco came into the league at the same time.
If you like excuses, then you must also make excuses for the other 52 players on the roster.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
9:57 pm
You do know he is a needs a hole runner? I’ve never said he was anything but that
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
9:57 pm
No Zip . . .agreed. Manning did get at least 3 wins that Super Bowl Year. He did a nice job. That D was also awesome . . .particularly at the end of the year. Now, don’t take that as a defense of Ryan. Instead, it’s more of a look at Eli. I gotta go back and check out his numbers in the Playoffs. Maybe he was awesome too.
phil
December 18th, 2011
9:59 pm
Favre’s choke in zero weather at Lambeau certainly helped Eli that yr…
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
10:00 pm
UPDATED MY RANT WITH THE LATEST GAME…
For those frequent blog experts who promulgate the meme that “Ryan is nothing without Turner” and that “Ryan owes all his success to Turner” and “Turner is the Falcons MVP”, etc….Aside from what we see with our eyes, that Turner isn’t “all that”, how do you explain these stats?
In 5 Falcons losses:
Turner: 73 carries, 316 yards, 4.33 YPC
Ryan: 124 completes, 225 attempts, 55.1%, 1434 yards, 6.37 YPA, 5 TD, 7 INT, 69.0 rating
In 9 Falcons wins:
Turner: 200 carries, 813 yards, 4.07 YPC
Ryan: 183 completes, 280 attempts, 65.4%, 2264 yards, 8.09 YPA, 21 TD, 5 INT, 107.8 rating
So, if you take these stats at face value, Turner plays “just as well” in the wins as the losses — his running efficiency/production has little bearing on the outcome. Ryan, on the other hand, has performed like a borderline scrub/clipboard holder in the 5 losses, and put up hall of fame/elite stats in the 9 wins.
Of course, these are stats, and they wouldn’t be stats if you couldn’t poke holes in them. Holes like…if you remove the first Chicago game when Turner was a highly effective 100 yards on 10 carries, his YPC in the remaining 4 losses falls to a quite awful 3.43. However, his YPC remains a quite pedestrian 4.07 in the 9 wins…certainly not at a level where you could argue he is a meaningful presence.
I’m sure y’all will dispute these stats in other ways, but they are what they are. This year, it isn’t even close which of those two players has a bigger influence on Falcon wins and losses. It ain’t “the burner.”
If you go back to 2008, the first year for both Ryan and Turner in Atlanta, the story is much different…at least for Turner. INcluding the playoffs:
In 6 Falcons losses:
Turner: 110 carries, 340 yards, 3.09 YPC (horrible)Ryan: 127 completions, 224 attempts, 56.7%, 1357 yards, 6.06 YPA, 5 TD, 8 INT, 67.1 rating (blech)
In 11 Falcons wins:
Turner: 285 carries, 1401 yards, 4.92 YPA (hall of fame over a career)
Ryan: 164 completes, 250 attempts, 65.6%, 2282 yards, 9.13 YPA, 13 TD, 5 INT, 103.8 rating (hall of fame over a career)
So that year, BOTH Turner and Ryan were great (an understatement) in their wins, and pretty awful in their losses. Hard to disentangle who had “more” impact…although some will say that Turner’s success that year in the wins helped set up the defenses for the success Ryan enjoyed. And maybe that is true. However, the story is different this year.
phil
December 18th, 2011
10:00 pm
Replace Mike Smith with Bill Parcells…
Lee Westwood wins in Thailand – Atlanta Journal Constitution | NewsAsean.Com
December 18th, 2011
10:00 pm
[...] Is Matt Ryan the NFL’s best? Nope. Is he good enough? Yep [...]
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:01 pm
You can’t make a Bugati handle like a Ferrari… It can run as fast, but it ain’t meant to do that… That is Turner’s MO,… I don’t ask Ottis Anderson to be Dave Meggett… In Atlanta, the fans do… And I don’t ask Matt Ryan to something he’s not… Give him the 90s Giants line and two tights and live with it..
phil
December 18th, 2011
10:03 pm
Ijonathan just made by eyes bleed….
Say what
December 18th, 2011
10:04 pm
It’s also what you do when you have a hole. see: Deangelo Williams. Turner is a good back, but he’s no Williams. And Ryan is no Rodgers. The point is, it all has to come together; it’s not just individual players.
JGralton
December 18th, 2011
10:05 pm
Give me Tebow Instead…
–
ATL Insight Blog: Atlanta’s Top 20 Athletes – http://bit.ly/atlblog
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:06 pm
It is not the yards, it the “carries!” When Turner is going good, he has 4 to 5 big yard gains combined with 4.03-4.4 yard carries and getting them in 2nd and short or 3rd and manageable… It is not complicated… It’s what Smith knows, Jamal Lewis and Fred Taylor… That is his DNA…
phil
December 18th, 2011
10:08 pm
M Turner is basically Walter Payton…
Or Gayle Sayers…
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:10 pm
The problem is, he aint got (he he) Tony Boselli or Jonathan Ogden hanging around!
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
10:10 pm
JSS=Bill Walton. You do remember that sage commentary, don’t you?
“It isn’t how many shots you make, it’s how many you take.”
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
10:10 pm
Phil – I looked at the 4 2007 Playoff Games for Eli. Solid play but not spectacular. Couldn’t see if he had Ints, but he had 6 TDs in the 4 games. Average looked to be between 195 – 210. I’m not Rain Man so the average just didn’t appear in my head:) Again he looked solid and I’m not taking anything away from him. I just don’t feel he is anywhere near Brees, Brady, Rogers, Manning . . ..I guess just like many don’t think the same of Ryan. And I concur. I just feel Ryan is a bit better than Eli. I know, I know . . .no Playoffs – no SB. Still doesn’t change my opinion.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:10 pm
Who he is John Brockington!
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:12 pm
What most you want him to be is Chuck Foreman or Duane Thomas! Watch Mark Bradley roll his eyes
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:13 pm
Hey, it worked for Rick Barry…
phil
December 18th, 2011
10:16 pm
Flacko is no Ryan!
phil
December 18th, 2011
10:16 pm
Bring back Haskel Stanbach!
old man
December 18th, 2011
10:17 pm
Yeah, we should have picked Joe Flacco.
Mike
December 18th, 2011
10:17 pm
It’s kind of funny how Matt Ryan and Aaron Murray parallel each other in terms of on the field success and public opinion. Both are slightly above average and play well against lesser opponents, but both seem to struggle in big games against quality opponents. Against bad teams, they both put up big numbers, and the fans credit them for the victory. Against good teams, turnovers and lack of production rule the day, and fans blame the OC, the defense and/or the receivers.
VLDL
December 18th, 2011
10:18 pm
Both of the teams we lost to in the playoffs went to the superbowl…. just sayin
old man
December 18th, 2011
10:19 pm
Or is it Joe Crappo now?
Look it up. The same people who are down on Ryan now were saying they would prefer Flacco a few months ago. Yeah, they sure know their football.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:19 pm
Joe Flacco will look horrible for 15 minutes to half a game… Then suddenly he’ll catch fire and hitting stuff… It is the streaky nature of his game now…
phil
December 18th, 2011
10:19 pm
Rivers is peyton manning!
Good nite.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:19 pm
Who beamed down 2009 Philip Rivers from Lovetron?
JSS
December 18th, 2011
10:21 pm
No, that is just crazy UGA fans…. They made David Greene a god…
old man
December 18th, 2011
10:21 pm
Somebody needs to talk to Flacco about that mustache. Nasty.
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
10:26 pm
Well Mike, he still is has a big game Monday night on the 26th to try and put on a good performance against a top notch team. That will be a good opp to erase the hasn’t played well against good teams knock this year. I agree he has not done well in almost all the losses, but I think he was pretty good against the Saints in that first game. The Int hurt, but he did a nice job that game. Close tough game.
Joe Tess Fish House
December 18th, 2011
10:34 pm
I stil dont get this love 4 Ryan. He overthrous 2 many pases, gets sax 2 many times and has 2 many INTS and U all still love him.
THey should of had sighed a defence player instead of drafting Ryan. No dout they wood be in the Superbowel by now.
DawgNole
December 18th, 2011
10:35 pm
72 Million, how’s your love interest Flacco doing tonight against a very average Charger team?
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
10:37 pm
come on Joe Tess . ..if you are going to try and phonetically spell words . .. .don’t you think overthroes would work better than overthrous? A little tired or did you rush that one?
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
10:39 pm
. . . .I meant try to phonetically misspell not spell!
Joe Tess Fish House
December 18th, 2011
10:42 pm
WHat?
Once Recent Reader
December 18th, 2011
10:44 pm
OK . . .I’ll stop:)
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
10:50 pm
It’s simple JSS…I’ll give you my “eye” test. Last year, and especially this year, I don’t see any explosion whatsoever in Turner’s game. He used to have it. Sure, he needs a hole, more than some guys do. But in the past, when the hole was there, he’d often be 5, 7, 10 yards downfield before he’d be in danger of getting brought down. He’d get hit, but he’d be strong and elusive enough to keep plowing. And, when he reached the clear, he could get deep into the secondary. Lately, he runs into piles (even if there is a hole), the first guy often brings him down (often by a shoestring), he bails out on the sidelines too often, and when he gets free, he is easily caught by DBs and even some LBs. And, the stats bear it out. Now, can we win with Turner? Yes, as long as the rest of the offense is clicking, he can do “enough.” See how I turned the usual Ryan argument on its head? Isn’t that hard.
ijonathan
December 18th, 2011
10:53 pm
I’m more sure than ever that Joe Tess went to Pace Academy then the Wharton School, and is now an Investment banker living in Sugarloaf…and yankin’ all y’alls chain.
Kris G
December 18th, 2011
10:59 pm
I don’t blame Mularkey. I blame Dimitroff. With his philosophy of making splashes, we end up with personnel that is quite limited in some respects, meaning downfield passing and screen passing. We have a team that shows incredible flashes, but can’t be consistent, because we spend all of our energy and draft picks on skill players. No consistency on the lines. One really good player in the secondary. Matt Ryan, even with his weaknesses, is a quality QB, a winner. But without better personnel, we don’t have the diversisty to cover his flaws.
breeswarning
December 18th, 2011
11:02 pm
Ryan is a good NFL QB but he is definitly not elite. The Falcons will see elite next Monday night when they face the best passing offense in the history of the NFL that also has a better running game than the Falcons, better offensive line and is the hottest team in the NFL. The Saints will clinch the division and most likely the #2 seed after they send the Falcants back home.
JSS
December 18th, 2011
11:52 pm
I look at Turner like a mini Okoye type runner… He explodes, but only on the 2nd and 3rd level… Give him a hole, not a shiver… Otherwise, that is as good as it going to get,,, I like the Rogers kids , still he’s a year or two away from being to block blitzes on this level….That might get the full blown Matty kiled…
Mora less Petrino
December 19th, 2011
12:12 am
It’s more than stat’s that a team needs from the QB position, leadership is huge. Ryan is a leader and will only improve in the coming seasons. Bartkowski and Chandler were good leaders, Ryan is a good leader. Jeff Boy George and Ron Mexico, not so much.
Pete
December 19th, 2011
12:53 am
I think it is a misnomer that when the team goes into the no-huddle offense that Ryan is calling the plays and Mularkey is, what, just watching, I guess.
Also, I’m tired of “Opera” and “Mercedes.” How about “lumberjack” and “Gatorade?”
yo mama
December 19th, 2011
1:33 am
do any of the dang writers here at the ajc, ever allude to the stat that Ryan also has the most drops, td drops in the league? heez man, add like 30 catches to the 50 drops this year and the guy is tops in the league, and gives Brew Drees a run for his money. cant call him drew, thats a sign of respect. cant respect him. why, cuz he is a aint, hate, hate the aints. hate their aint fans too. they stupid and low class.
Eric
December 19th, 2011
1:57 am
Matt Ryan is EASILY the greatest QB Atlanta has ever had. He is a natural leader, is very smart and has shown a propensity for coming through in the clutch (how many 4th quarter comebacks does he have?). The ONLY thing the guy lacks so far is a playoff win but considering the two teams they lost to both went on to the SB, that’s not such a terrible thing. This year he gets that monkey off the back and I see a SB Championship coming soon thereafter.
Eric
December 19th, 2011
2:00 am
Good point Yo mama, he has had an awful lot of drops this year (the Roddy drop in the EZ against NO cost us the game and the JJ drop against Houston would have tied the game).
painter
December 19th, 2011
2:22 am
Saints fans: up by 6 points with two minutes left in the game, which QB scares you more than Ryan? You can’t choose Brees cause he’s on your team. Rodgers, Brady, the Mannings, Tebow??
christopher
December 19th, 2011
3:42 am
matt is a great qb sometimes the oline lets him down but one really big prob is when you need them the most rerceivers drop the ball there is three games we lost because of receivers. we should have beat the saints but roddy dropped the ball texans same and tampa. heck all our games we lost was dropped passes. if the ones they should have caught was on there matty ice would look outstanding and have more wins too
trademark
December 19th, 2011
5:33 am
Ignoring all the race-baiters (you know who you are, the ones that DIDN’T EXIST HERE while Vick was playing and losing almost half of the time….)
This article is dead-on. Ryan is NOT Rodgers, Brees, Brady or Manning. Very few are. He IS top- 5-7, though, and that is right up there with the best. Big Benn is up there because of his two rings. When (NOT “if”) the Falcons and Ryan are wearing one, then let the discussion begin. Personally, I think he’s very comparable to the Pittsburgh signal-caller, but actually a better passer. More than enough to win a Super Bowl or two (or three….)
To make another point clear, if Ryan had the passing games in the first 7 games that he’s had in the last 7, we’d all be INCLUDING him in that list with Rodgers, Brady, Brees and Manning. The QB rating would be through the roof, and without so many drops (some of them leading DIRECTLY to ints) they just might be there.
He’s woken up lately, just like the whole damned team. Coincidence? Don’t think so. Ryan with a QB rating of 100 or more? Falcons (as a team) 22-0. Let that soak in. UNdefeated. That’s lethal on many, many levels.
Prince
December 19th, 2011
7:06 am
Trademark, Ryan is not a top 7 QB. Brees, Rodgers, Peyton, Eli (yes, Eli,), Romo, Rivers, Stafford, Schaub, Rivers, Vick, and Cam Newton is already on Ryan’s heals. And Just wait until Luck and RGIII hit the scene.
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
7:26 am
Wrong again…Trademark….Big Ben, is a playmaker in ways that Ryan never will be. Mainly because Ben can extend plays and make SOMETHING out of a nothing play….like really good QB’s can do. They are like jazz musicians…they can improvise. …..because guess what…..sometimes the plays don’t work the same way it was drawn up on the chalk board. When plays don’t work according to the Chalk board…..ole Matty throws it out of bounds for safety. Not a bad play but a rather average QB play. Something a backup would do all the time.
Matt is a serviceable QB….but when Turner is not producing and it’s Matt Ryan time….he doesn’t deliver….not against good teams consistently.
PapaDawg
December 19th, 2011
7:32 am
His Stats would be a whole lot higher if his freaking receivers would quit dropping so many balls
trademark
December 19th, 2011
7:37 am
Prince, Yeah, Eli of the three int super choke game that just knocked his team out of the playoffs (against Seattle….damn). Romo, whose crunch-time record in December or crucial games is about 0-for-a thousand, Rivers, who maybe once was better, but since we’re talking about the PRESENT (I hope….), isn’t doing so hot, or maybe those 17 ints he’s thrown this season aren’t really bothering the Chargers…..Cam Newton, who yeah, is really , REALLY good at throwing away big leads right into the other teams’ hands, JFYI, Ryan STARTED in his rookie season with that whole 4th-quarter-comeback WINNING thing…and Vick….really? Vick?? Dude, PLEASE get over your man-crush with the 21st rated QB in the league, who is the QB on the “dream” team this year, one of the BIGGEST disappointments in the history of the NFL. If I start laughing at that one right now, you get your wish, because I probably won’t stop until I laugh myself to death about Vick being “elite” Never was, never will be, either.
And yeah, we can wait for Luck and Bobby Griffen Cubed. But really, rookie QBs are still a gamble. And when you consider Flacco, Freeman, et. al, they aren’t exactly on their way to the top 10 either. Weak-a$%ed argument. Back it up with SOMETHING at least besides opinions.
Bottom line, by the numbers, Ryan is a top 10 QB for the year (so far, very likely climbing), TOP 5, when you count the last 7 games and the 101 QB rating, and already top 7 by the new total QBR. Count in the intangibles of field generalsmanship and comeback WINS, and he’s up there with the best.
trademark
December 19th, 2011
7:45 am
Saints REAM(ed) -”When plays don’t work according to the Chalk board…..ole Matty throws it out of bounds for safety. Not a bad play but a rather average QB play….
Matt is a serviceable QB….but when Turner is not producing and it’s Matt Ryan time….he doesn’t deliver….not against good teams consistently.”
Please read the stats….the running game has been systematically taken away by defenses this year, especially in the last 2 games, Atlanta USED to have a top 1-2 or so running game in Ryan’s first 3 seasons, it’s dropped to like 17th this year, as teams have SCHEMED to make Ryan beat them. And he’s responded by posting some of the best numbers of his career over the last 7.
As for the improved plays, please try to explain to me what the hell a No-Huddle offense is…and just how efficiently the Falcon’s offense runs when it’s being implemented. Total impov based on the Defense, totally scary to defend, and run to damn near perfection.
Damn, now you made me feel bad, contradicting a Saints fan is like beating up a blind toddler….
Nativebird
December 19th, 2011
8:07 am
The Ryan haters will never ever give it up because their problem is not with what he does, but with what he is. All he does is win, (all he does is win). UNLEASH! Fire Mularkey. Ryan is the best Offensive Coordinator the Falcons have ever had. Mularkey is Ryan’s only limitation. No imagination, No attack mentality. No killer instinct.
Really?
December 19th, 2011
8:13 am
Stats don’t lie… Manning, Brees, didn’t win their first playoff game until their 6th year. Ryan is in his 4th
just sayin'
December 19th, 2011
8:14 am
game manager….not a bad thing…but not elite… if that 5-7yd crossing route isn’t open, happy feet takes over and the ‘deer in the headlights’ look appears…deep passes are inaccurate and no one is threatened by them…
Say what
December 19th, 2011
8:30 am
Pete
December 19th, 2011
12:53 am
“I think it is a misnomer that when the team goes into the no-huddle offense that Ryan is calling the plays and Mularkey is, what, just watching, I guess. ”
You’re wrong, Pete. I can’t find the link, but after the Panthers game, Todd Mclure did a video for atlantafalcons.com in which he explained that Ryan called the TD wheel route for Quizz. On that play, and many other no-huddle or at-the-line changes, yes, Mularkey is just watching.
bjohndawg
December 19th, 2011
8:33 am
Dawgs go to Southern Cal and win on the road. And the AJC writers dont even write about it days later. What is up with that?
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
8:42 am
Trademark, Ryan runs a “no-huddle” only in name. They are in essence taking a 15 second “huddle” at the line to pick a play. That’s not improvisation. It’s basically calling a play (chalk board) at the line. It also seems to break down a bit on the road due to noise. It’s a nice little novelty that really works great against average teams.
Turner is 3rd in the league in rushing. So all these defenses scheming to stop the run ain’t getting it done. Falcon fans are always bad mouthing Turner and screaming to get Jacquizz more touches…..foolish. So…ok…Ryan has been responding…uh…ok. If you are happy with the production so be it. I see this team as underperforming offensively and Ryan is the key to that. Especially, since he can audible at any time and correct Mularkey’s horrible play calls.
Statick
December 19th, 2011
8:46 am
Ryan is a great QB for us and I’m proud to have him.
Quarterback
December 19th, 2011
8:46 am
For whatever it is worth, as a former high school, college and NFL QB (2 years), it is my opinion that Mark Bradley is pretty much spot on. I also give high praise to “trademark’s” initial assessment.
Matt Ryan certainly has not the arm or athleticism of a Rodgers. Few do. However, his intangibles and leadership are exceptional, his work ethic non surpassed, and he really throws a very catchable ball. Further, he has recently very accurate on the deeper routes due to more repetitions.
To put it concisely, Matt Ryan is, all things considered, a top tier NFL QB who can be as successful as any QB in the game today with the exception of Rodgers and Brady, tow of the best ever to walk on the field.
As some have mentioned previously, the real issue with the Falcons offense rests with their offensive line. In my opinion they, as a group, are average to below average and this may be the offense’s Achilles heel come the postseason. As good as they have done elsewhere, the Falcons leadership have done a rather poor job of drafting or acquiring pro bowl quality talent along both the offensive and defensive lines and this usually rears it’s ugly head somewhere along the path in the postseason.
My two cents…
Ichabod
December 19th, 2011
9:26 am
Watching the replays of the Falcon’s losses to Green Bay and the Saints I see that we held our own on a lot of plays until we allowed Brees or Rodgers step up into the pocket. We need to have a big rush up the middle. The outside rush would come on great only to have them take a step or two forward and gain another second or two for the receiver to get open. Collapse the Pocket up the Middle !! A great QB is only great when he is vertical.
Leeman Bennett
December 19th, 2011
9:41 am
After reading all the posts it is easy to see that some people haven’t even read this article, but they sure do react to it. The statistics support Mar’s position. All you haters need to go find someplace else to spew all your venom. Let’s say that Falcons did win the Super Bowl this year. If that did happen, the only thing some people would say was that it took too long. Shoot,the Arizona Cardinals, the Cleveland Browns, the Detroit Lions, the Houston Texans, and the Jacksonville Jaguars have never even made it to the Super Bowl. The Falcons have done that! Now, I know that what fans want is to win, no excuses. But is the hatred necessary?
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
9:43 am
I think Brees is this years MVP. Rodgers got attention early but Drew has him beat in almost every statistical category. Also, the Saints offense is on pace to break the 2000 Rams “Greatest Show on turf” record for most yards by an offensive unit. Yes, guys the most prolific offense in the history of the NFL is from New Orleans!
Enjoy the REAL show…..Roddy White….Lol.
Steve Bartkowski
December 19th, 2011
9:45 am
Being a falcon fan I can say this. There are too many cry babies here. Not good enough? Let compare Ryan to other FALCON QBs since Peachtree Bart. There are none that have performed better over the four years he’s been here. That includes Chris Miller, Jeff (drama mama) Goerge, Bobby Herbert, etc..
what of it?
December 19th, 2011
9:45 am
He’s never won a playoff game, and since as you stated, winning is the only stat that matters, what is the argument that he’s good enough?
12 men in the huddle
December 19th, 2011
9:46 am
It’s very simple. When Ryan doesn’t throw interceptions and the falcons run the ball effectively, they win.
D man
December 19th, 2011
9:50 am
Matt is getting better everyday. I think he can lead this team to a Superbowl and win it…
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
9:53 am
Is Matt Stafford better than Matt Ryan? hmmm….. He has led Detroit to several comebacks this year…he is a better playmaker, has a better arm ……….Who would you prefer to have?
Some cheese with your whine?
December 19th, 2011
10:07 am
despite MR’s playoff game fails, overall i’ve been impressed with him…and his ability to overcome Mularkey’s ‘pedestrian’ (at times) play-calling. i think a new OC would benefit him greatly, along with a revamped O-line. the team sure looked solid against the Jags this past Thurs night.
@ Leeman: the AZ Cardinals have already been to the Super Bowl, they lost to the Steelers in 2009.
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
10:09 am
2001 NFL Draft
Brees’ college success led to projections that he would be a mid-to-late first round draft pick in the 2001 NFL Draft, but he slipped due to concerns about his relatively short stature for a professional quarterback (6′0″), a perceived lack of arm strength, and a sense that he had succeeded in college in a system designed for him. Ultimately, Brees was the second quarterback selected in the 2001 draft, chosen by the San Diego Chargers as the first pick of the second round.[8]
San Diego originally had the first pick in that draft, but traded it to Atlanta (which used it to draft Michael Vick) in return for the fifth pick of the first round, with which San Diego drafted LaDainian Tomlinson.[8]
Good grief Charlie Brown
December 19th, 2011
10:11 am
despite MR’s playoff fails, overall i’m glad they drafted him. i think he would benefit greatly from a new OC and a revamped O-line. sometimes, Mularkey’s play-calling is ‘pedestrian’ at best.
@Leeman Bennett: the AZ Cardinals have already been to the Super Bowl; they lost to the Steelers in 2009.
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
10:11 am
Classic Falcons….constantly missing in the draft even when they get it right….just cursed.
trademark
December 19th, 2011
10:16 am
@ Quarterback- thanks, and dead on about the Line talent, it’s cobbled together, and their biggest draft pick (Baker) got injured and hasn’t been the same since. The D-Line point goes right into my next point…
@Ichabod- Definitely. Sometimes sacks are an overrated stat, they really are. The Falcons D is actually ranked rather high, in both yds/gm allowed and pts/gm allowed (pretty damned important), WITHOUT having a very ferocious pass rush (most of the time). HOWEVER, when facing a QB of the caliber of Brees or Rodgers or Brady, if you don’t pressure them, they will execute you. EVERY TIME. Look at how many sacks KC racked up on Rodgers, and that is one of those so-called “inferior” teams. And they beat the undefeated. make the star wobble enough, and it crashes pretty often. Speaking of which, this is yet ANOTHER trait I love about Matty Ice. He’s been hit a LOT this year, and still manages to stay tough. Great attribute for a star to have.
and *sigh* @ Saints REAM…actually, I gotta admit, you’re the least objectionable Saints Fan to talk to…at least it’s not an unfocused rant….but still, gotta disagree again, the No Huddle has an extended pause at the line, so it runs clock. That is by design, because the Falcons didn’t want to lose that TOP stat that has won so many games for them. Player’s have mentioned this on their blog, but it wasn’t until Jared Allen said it publicly that that became well known. The point is this; Ryan is still improving at the line, based on what he is seeing. Maybe he actually does suck at audibling because he needs longer to survey the D…., or doesn’t want to change every play that gets in from the sidelines and start WW3 with the Offensive coordinator. I don’t know for sure. What I do know, is that he calls out a hell of a lot during the No Huddle (including that super-pretty 32-yarder to Quizz the other week). And in principle, these plays may have been designed by Mularkey, but it’s Ryan who seems to have the mastery on WHEN to call them. That’s awesome to do in 30 seconds or less. A yes, a QB rating over 101 is really, really great production for anyone, I’m happy as hell with it. Not everyone is Rodgers, Brees, Manning or Brady.
Turner is third in the league in rushing but take a closer look. He is second in # of carries to only MJD, who is the ENTIRE Jacksonville offense, and lower than everyone in the top 10 in average per carry. Only a few of them have less yds averaged per game. Now look carefully at the last 4 games. ALL well under 100. With 3 wins. Ryan’s carrying those, guy, sorry, there isn’t anyone else. The early games this year that this wasn’t the case were Chicago, Green Bay and Tampa. Turner couldn’t do it alone (had 100 against Chicago, but the team couldn’t overcome the ints) and Ryan couldn’t produce it either. THAT’S what’s changed here. When teams are taking it away (the run), Ryan is producing, with the exception of Houston, which we all have heard enough about the dropped pass crap, still, since the article (and I) are talking about the change in the last 7 games, here’s the deal: Only 1 game had 100 yards from Turner (Tennessee), and the record? 5-2. One of those losses is the OT lucky-as-all-hell-and-get-out loss to the Saints. In the first 7, Turner had 4 games over 100. Record? 4-3. Seems clear, when Turner is being contained, then Ryan needs to produce, and in the last 7, he has. 5-2, damned near 6-1. I’ll take that. You get a lot of chances to win championships with that record.
Samuel
December 19th, 2011
10:20 am
All Matt Ryan has to do is keep winning and that will silence his critics. He can do that by beating Brees and company and the Bucks. Also win a playoff game, Get busy Matty Ice!
trademark
December 19th, 2011
10:22 am
…oh damn it, Saints REAM, now I just have to FLAT OUT agree with you….Missing Brees (and LT) sucks. Still not the worst on that list though….
Peria Jerry.
And a couple of picks later…..to Green Bay
Clay Matthews.
(/)§$)/§%$)§/%$))/%”§%/!
(I think my throat still hurts from screaming at the TV from that draft day)
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
10:25 am
STOP blaming Mularkey!!! If Mularkey is sending in bad plays then why isn’t your leader Matt Ryan correcting the play calls!??
STOP thinking that Matt Ryan is some great playcaller…..dude is no Payton Manning. It is so ridiculous to listen to you guys bang on Mularkey when he has taught Matt everything he knows and made him into a serviceable QB. Give Mularkey credit….he groomed Matt into the QB that he is….like it or not.
PMC
December 19th, 2011
10:33 am
Yeah, he’s sort of Eli Manning.
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
10:34 am
blog monster got my last comment….
So the question is….Is Mike Mularkey really that bad? It seems to me that he has put your offense over the past few years in a position to perform well as he groomed Matt Ryan into a pretty good QB. Take a look around at how hard it is to win and bring along a QB at the same time. Matt has shown improvement under Mularkey and so has the team as a whole. So I just don’t get the Falcon’s Faithful wanting to blow that up and start over with a NEW OC……A new playbook…etc.
But please, don’t let me stop you….lol.
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 19th, 2011
10:37 am
Oh and I know this won’t go over well…..but….Bobby Petrino probably would have been fun to watch at the pro level. His offenses in college are very creative….put him with Vick or Ryan and some weapons…would have been pretty nice.
chris
December 19th, 2011
10:44 am
I will disagree with everyone on this blog, and say Matt Ryan is elite!!! If you add three touchdowns to his numbers, while also adding three more wins (roddy drops pass in TPA, roddy drops pass against NO, julio drops pass in HOU, all perfect passes) then a lot more would agree with me. He is a beast, he is not flashy like the rest, no pregame chants, no championship belts, no huge rushing plays, no superman crap, etc….
trademark
December 19th, 2011
10:54 am
…hmmmm…Saint’s faithful making arguments to KEEP Mularkey….
’nuff said. I have no idea about Petrino, he kind of took his ball and Pampers pack and went home. It would have been intriguing, maybe, but damn, we learned a hell of a lot about the man’s CHARACTER after that whole debacle, and I for one, am glad it happened. What a jack-a-lope.
JT
December 19th, 2011
10:58 am
Without a steel curtain defense and a breakaway back, the QB has to be great to win playoff games. Matty is good but will never be great until he can consistently roll away from the pass rush and scamper successfully on 3rd and two. I would trade him straight up right now for Andrew Luck sight (kindof) unseen. I rank him as the 12th best QB..not bad since it’s an elite club anyway. Pulling for you though Matty!.
Big Mike
December 19th, 2011
11:00 am
If Ryan is to be in the top five its up to him to put fifteen pounds of upper body muscle, evaluate himself and make the reads quicker . He is a good Qback we want him to be a great Qback. The lock out hurt the passing game the first seven games, the Falcons must be aggresive if we want to get pass the first round of play offs;
tony
December 19th, 2011
11:00 am
Matt Ryan has done a better job in staying in the pocket more so this season than he has in the past. Dimitroff priority this offseason should be to provide him with better pass protection because Ryan is not mobile enough to make plays with his legs. If you give Mike Smith the right pieces, he can win you a sb. PLZ use Rogers more……he is better that Turner. Yes I Said It!
BigGAdawg
December 19th, 2011
11:01 am
MB, When you compared Ryan’s year one to year four you failed to account for the difference in schedule difficulty. The first year we were following a sucky season and had a relatively easy schedule. After last year we have one of the tougher schedules in the NFL. I would say, on balance, that while you are correct in saying he was tough and polished as a rookie, there is still room to say that he has improved considerably since then.
BTW, spewing KUDOS to the firsties is as sophomoric and lame as being a firstie.
The article you wrote about how Munson might have called the championship game was great, however, too often you just suck.
Ed
December 19th, 2011
11:11 am
Matt Ryan has an uncanny ability to lead this Falcons team to victory and understands the game mentally as well as anyone in the league. However if Matt Ryan wants to be mentioned in the same discussion with Rodgers, Brees, and Brady then he has to do what those 3 have done, lead his team to victory in playoff games and Super Bowls. That’s what makes a QB worth his weight in gold in the NFL. All the greats have waited their turn and I have faith in Ryan that he has what it takes to win in the postseason. It all starts next Monday night that’s as close to a regular season playoff game ad you can get, it’ll be a good measuring stick for this team and this quarterback but I have a lot of confidence that they’ll get it done because the Falcons had chances to beat the Saints when we played them at the dome a few weeks back, including the last drive of regulation, which should’ve ended in a game winning touchdown instead of the field goal that sent it to OT.
Once Recent Reader
December 19th, 2011
11:20 am
Saints REAM. Brees has as good an argument for MVP as anyone. Right now I’d say he, Rogers, and Brady are all in a close group. We’ll see what the sprint to the end brings.
Ed
December 19th, 2011
11:23 am
Matt Ryan is good enough and will lead this franchise to a Championship. Keep in mind it took Brees 2 teams and 8 years in the league to win a Super Bowl he wasn’t exactly lighting things up his 4th year in the league.
really
December 19th, 2011
11:35 am
Noodle arms, lol!!!
Sid
December 19th, 2011
11:37 am
How can we be talking about Matt Ryan……….?? Everybody is talking about Tebow…..!! Tebow this, Tebow that…………my God man. Is Ryan better than Tebow…………? Now there’s a question for ya….!!
Seriously, I agree, the Falcons are going to advance in these playoffs!
Note to UGAbugkiller (can I just call you RAID for short): It’s really not up to the AJC to bust down on Mularkey, that is obviously your job. I cannot argue that a lot of other teams seem to have more imagination with their offensive playcalling but if you want to oust Mularkey then you have to call out the brass. AB, TD, RMc, and Coach Smith. I doubt you can get the AJC to jump on your bandwagon, they have to keep their access open and the Falcons want the real writers on their beat. Just my opionion, not trying to bust your chops.
ijonathan
December 19th, 2011
12:00 pm
Score: Trademark 16, Saints R.E.A.M 3 (I was feeling generous).
REAM, really, the fact that you, Mark Bradley and others keep throwing out the “yeah, but, but, Turner is THIRD in the league in rushing!” without bothering to spend more than 2 seconds looking into the stats is LAUGHABLE. In addition to Trademark’s solid, quick analysis, look back earlier in this thread at the comparision I made between Ryan and Turner in wins and losses, 2008 vs. 2011. In 2008, you certainly could make an argument that Turner was critical to victories…this year, not a chance. And, if you take the top 30 running backs in the league this year in terms of total yards, Turner is a whopping 25th in YPC. Extremely pedestrian would be an awfuly kind way of describing Turner’s “production.”
NEXT.
Micheal Turner
December 19th, 2011
12:21 pm
I might be 3rd in rushing but I cannot catch a ball out of the backfield.
Defenses dont respect my catching ability.
ijonathan
December 19th, 2011
12:27 pm
Excellent point, Mr. Turner. Defenses don’t need to worry about you leaking out of the backfield to catch a pass, nor do they have to worry about you making any kind of move or cut back that would normally cause trouble for aggressive, pursuing defenses.
Add all that up and it equals a severely average (and of late below average) running back who scares no one.
The Wad
December 19th, 2011
12:32 pm
Romedawg….your analysis leaves out the fact that N.O. is the only one of the three you mentioned (Patriots, G.B.) with a better than mediocre defense. Those QB have as much chance to ose as the Ryan led Falcons because the D they offer is bottom rung in the NFL. Patriots and Packers don`t have time for running plays due to the fact they have to throw up monster points almost every game to overcome the avalanche their defense is going to give up. The Falcons can beat any of those teams, including the Packers, only if the O line plays the rest of the way as they did last week against a weak defense from Jax. The Packers proved that if you live by the pass you can most assuredly die by the pass on any given day. I`d be more fearful of N.O. with their ability to control the game by running or defense. The Patriots don`t scare any team with an above average offense.
ijonathan
December 19th, 2011
12:33 pm
As a defender, wouldn’t it be cool to know, with about 99.9% confidence, that when you see Turner get the handoff, he’s basically going to be in that exact same lane when you come up to make the tackle?
Michael Turner: quintessential (Running) Game Manager
PMC
December 19th, 2011
1:42 pm
No Mularky hasn’t been bad, he’s been pretty good with what he’s had to work with. It hasn’t always worked, but he has eventually found the right combination each year. The offensive linemen on the team simply aren’t upper eschelon. They don’t run many screens because they aren’t really capable of running them right now.
There are reasons they are repetitive, much of which has to do with the blocking.
AceDawg
December 19th, 2011
1:56 pm
I think this is an accurate portrayal of Matty Ice. He has a tendency to underwhelm from time to time, but he is central to the winning attitude of the Falcons franchise and is still pretty darn good compared to the vast majority of quarterbacks out there. I don’t think he can turn a garbage team into a competitive one on his own the way an Aaron Rodgers, Peyton Manning (1-13 w/out him says a TON), or Drew Brees can, but a team like the Redskins that competes but loses would be the type of team that Ryan would make a big difference.
goodgod
December 19th, 2011
1:59 pm
you can’t win a superbowl until you win at least two playoff games in a row. if you can’t win big games, you aren’t going anywhere but home.
Red
December 19th, 2011
1:59 pm
I sure wish he could throw an accurate deep pass once in a while but he can’t! Just keep them short and we will win.
PlanB
December 19th, 2011
2:50 pm
I watched the end of the Raiders game and was sick that they gave it to Detroit.
I read a few of the first posts. I believe it was Gregory saying we have to get a pass rush on Brees to win. Most of the posts were against MM but as far as BVG goes, I don’t believe he will be blitzing but he should. He has before and it helped with ints by Grimes. Brees is like Rodgers. Too good an athlete to get caught much but he does have to throw much quicker and causes less accuracy and an occasional int. Willing to bet BVG will only use a 4 man rush though.
I wish Ryan had that ability of awareness to know when being closed in on and the correct direction to move for another moment to look down field. He only knows to run to the right and backward to throw the ball away.
Atl 1
December 19th, 2011
4:09 pm
Ryan—good but not great. Not in the class of Brady, Rogers and Brees, but the best atl can get. Hopefully, Atl can win at least 1 playoff game this year.
bobwhite
December 19th, 2011
4:15 pm
ugabugkiller keeps repeating the same B/S over and over..Why does the AJC put up with his “slather”?
He need to be kept on a short lease! The Falcon record speaks for itself..If the coach’s were as bad as you say..would we have 4 winning seasons back to back? I think not!! Are the falcons as good or as bad as their record indicates? Probably not..A play here a play there they could very easily have 2 more wins or loses..What they are at this point is an average football team, good for 8-9 wins a year..with the possibilities of winning 10-11 with a little luck! Is M.Ryan the Q/B we all want him too be? Probably not..However..He is better than Average! Give him the offensive line he needs to protect him..let him sink or swim with his own play calling and THEN we will know where he stands with the ELITE!!
Poncho
December 19th, 2011
6:55 pm
I’ll tell you plain and simple what Ryan must do to take his game to the next level. He needs to go to one of these trainers that specialize in working with QBs on accuracy, strength and mobility drills during the off season. He has the cerebral part of QBing down, now he just needs to work on delivering the ball with power and accuracy. Matt will be okay, he’s just taking a little longer to reach the elite level because we don’t have a coach on this staff that really knows how to coach what he needs.
reno Cal
December 20th, 2011
4:40 am
is ryan good? yes, but not great
can ryan win a super bowl? no way–not a big time player in the playoffs.
In the atl, good is good enough.
trademark
December 20th, 2011
5:21 am
Adrian Peterson after the Saints game:
“MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson says he thinks the New Orleans Saints were purposely trying to injure his sprained left ankle in their game on Sunday.
Peterson had 10 carries for 60 yards against the Saints after missing the previous three weeks with a high ankle sprain. Peterson said after the game he expected the defensive players to target his ankle while trying to bring him down.
But he also says he took particular offense to one play when cornerback Jabari Greer twisted his ankle in a pile up.
Peterson says he confronted Greer because he thought that “it kind of got overboard.”
Peterson said he didn’t injure the ankle anymore in the 42-20 loss.”
Does that sound like an “elite” team to you? Or a bunch of scared little kids in grown men’s bodies trying desperately to cover up their weaknesses (I.e.- Defense), even at the expense of purposely trying to injure another player and possibly end his season (or worse).
I hope the Football Gods are paying attention. New Orleans has some BAD VOODOO payback that is long overdue coming to them.
just sayin'
December 20th, 2011
6:38 am
trade….which would you rather have?….some ankle twisting that goes on in EVERY pileup?..or those ‘helmet to helmet’ tackles of moore and robinson?…coach clean shot really knows how to ‘coach them up’….
trademark
December 20th, 2011
6:46 am
I don’t think I really have the explain the HUGE difference there is between some play where a guy is going for a mid-high tackle and the runner/receivers puts his head down and there is helmet-to-helmet contact from that (PS-the NFL reduced the fine for that, it WASN’T INTENTIONAL) and DELIBERATELY TRYING TO RE-INJURE SOMEONE’S ANKLE BY DIVING DIRECTLY AT IT IN FORMATION AND PULLING AND TWISTING IT LIKE A §/&%$ FELON.
Geez, man, please….
just sayin'
December 20th, 2011
7:14 am
i agree…it’s hard to explain why anyone would WANT to lead with their head…it just happens, huh?…makes good highlights, though, huh?…and where would you rather tackle peterson…shoulder high?…i doubt it..you’re taught to tackle a bruiser like that at or below the waist…take his legs out from under him..or did u just play volleyball?….
trademark
December 20th, 2011
7:19 am
Go ahead, defend that trifling playground sh&t if you want, it’ll come around back to you.
The Saints had a PLAN to do it.
That’s the crap part.
The end. Seriously.
just sayin'
December 20th, 2011
7:26 am
2 funny…i don’t think any player wants to hurt another player seriously…but you can bet your sweet a$$ every time a player HITS another player, he wants that hit to be FELT..make that opposing player a little tentative when he comes that way again…i’m sure the saints weren’t out to maim…but you can bet they were out to discourage peterson from running….
just sayin'
December 20th, 2011
7:27 am
even in volleyball, you try to hit the ball at the opposing player….you should know that…
trademark
December 20th, 2011
7:33 am
“…i’m sure the saints weren’t out to maim…”
Really? Having a plan to deliberately team dive at a guy’s injured ankle and twisting it in piles sure don’t sound like the were trying to give him a grease-down and a shiatsu. Or make him “feel it” either. They were seeing if they could re-injure it and take him out of the game, if possible, instead of playing him straight up, like men. Keep on trying to defend it.
just sayin'
December 20th, 2011
7:40 am
trade…go back to your sewing…and you keep defending moore and robinson…and moore? that clown even put HIMSELF out of the game with that ‘leading with the head’ crap…deserved it..the ball carrier had already been stopped and he came in with his helmet…defend that?
trademark
December 20th, 2011
8:09 am
Accident does not equal PLAN. C’mon, you’re from New Orleans, you should know the difference between intent, pre-meditated and accidental…right?
And really, that’s the last excuse you have, accusing me of sewing stuff, and that kind of behavior by the Saints is therefore warranted because it isn’t “brutal”? News flash….INTENT TO INJURE during a sports contest is the act of COWARDS, because they don’t want to be tested against a full-strength player(s). Now, I, from real life experience, can talk all I want about what’s warranted and what isn’t in war or in peace, and there is the “code of the gladiator” that exists in the NFL. But the real players know, or should, that trying to take someone out of a game because he is a threat, is pure BS.
ShempHoward
December 21st, 2011
11:05 am
Somebody blogged Is Ryan a Better QB than Matthew Stafford: I think Matt Ryan is a better qb than Matthew Stafford. Ryan runs a game like Peyton Manning (in terms of qb intellect/quicks/brainpower and the ability to call plays at the line of scrimmage and think on his feet).Ryan has trouble with throwing needless and reckless interceptions at the most inappropriate times and Ryan holds onto the ball too long and takes too many sacks. Ryan needs to learn to find his receivers quicker and move the chains more rountinely (like Aaron Rodgers does). Ryan is still a young qb and is learning, but if Ryan doesnt make dramatic improvements by next year, I think it might be a good idea to TRADE RYAN FOR MATTHEW STAFFORD and then lets see what stafford can do for the Falcons. Problems Solved!
trademark
December 21st, 2011
11:40 am
Stafford is all arm and no brain. He is still looking to the sidelines for help, just like he did at UGA. No WAY would I trade him for Ryan, no-damned-way.
LukeMerriman
December 21st, 2011
1:52 pm
I want to propose two changes to the Falcons to make them a superpower as New Orleans and Greenbay. #1:Turner’s skills have declined and can no longer be effective and help the falcons–Snelling should be moved into the starting lineup as our starting fullback. #2:Trade Mike Turner to Arizona for W.R. Larry Fitzgerald. This should make the Falcons every bit as good as the better teams:Jets, Ravens, Patriots, Eagles, G.B. and Saints.
ShempHoward
December 21st, 2011
2:55 pm
A couple of years ago when vick was incarcerated, before he returned from prison–the falcons had 3 good qbs on their roster and it is debatable as to who is currently the best one of the lot.
#1:Matt Schaub–houston texans starting qb
#2:Mike Vick–philadelphia eagles starting qb
#3:Matt Ryan “Matty Ice”–falcons starting qb
They all are good, but Schaub is the best of the three because he can throw the deep ball acurately and flawlessly. Last season, Schaub not only threw for more than 4000 yards–BUT HE WAS THE MVP OF THE PRO BOWL. He was the best player among all the all-star players, which means he was the best player in the entire league. I knew schaubie was good–when vick was holding up his career with vicks dogfighting ring. SCHAUB WOULD HAVE MADE IT TO THE HALL OF FAME IF THERE WAS NEVER ANY MIKE VICK.
D-Man
December 21st, 2011
7:53 pm
“…and for authoring a tepid start to this season.” Umm, I do believe that was all on that atrocious play by the offensive line the first few games – can’t throw very accurately when the o-line is allowing defenders to tap dance on your quarterback’s THROAT. I do agree with the deep ball issue, but unlike most folks I believe Matt Ryan is smart and dedicated enough to his craft to fix that. Remember the last few years he couldn’t even throw deep now he can, he just gotta fix his aim on those throws. I also agree that we can win without him being the best QB, hell Eli Manning wasn’t the best when the Giants won so if he can, the Iceman can for sure. I don’t care what any of these whinebag haters here say, Ryan is decent enough and this TEAMMMMM will win one eventually…GO FALCONS.
JEM
December 21st, 2011
11:57 pm
AWESOME article, Mr. Bradley.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
8:46 am
Hope they let ryan use 2-minute offence especially when defenses having to get back to the line tired. Seems like Ryan is at his best when they got the 2-min.drill runnin’.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
8:58 am
I agree (w/JEM)a very well thought of article Mark,kudos back atcha’, you know lately,ryan has been bringing his heart during the game that helps stav off any inability,& rises to the occasion when it’s most needed. He has guts & never say die attitude that propels others in the trenches fight’n for him. We as fans love to see someone leading the charge that his teammates love to go to war with. That’s Awesome!
Blove
December 22nd, 2011
9:01 am
When will you garbage ATL fans learn. Matty Melt will never take you
to the promise land !!! Maybe after this Monday nite A@# whopp’in by the Saints yall
will stop all this wishful thinking.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
9:17 am
Boy! This is great; don’t have to listen to any other muffled bloggin’ goin’ on when ur given opinion, at least tryin’ to be constructive. Much respect to Brees,as a person,fine athlete,very talented qb, him & Rogers topps no denyin’ that. I’m just pullin’ for my team.
trademark
December 22nd, 2011
9:18 am
When will all you garbage New Orleans fans get the hell off our blogs, and for that matter, every other team in the NFL’s blogs? Truly scared little trolls that feel the need to scream at everyone how great they HOPE their team is.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
9:19 am
D-MAN; ur right on; meant to say that sooner.
trademark
December 22nd, 2011
9:24 am
I mean, damn, I just checked out your NOLA.com site and while here are a couple of Falcons fans there, they are not posting 100 times with pointless rants troll-style. Grow up. Or just go away….either way, NO one wants you on their blogs. Trash.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
9:32 am
Hey trade; I had to learn my lesson recently because I know trash talkin’ folks are full of parasites, just eatin’up there insides that puttin down others on a atl blog only gives them temporary relief. They can’t help it. But hey trade, leaches can only crawl & suck so far. then bust. We keep hangin’ w/ the other folks who just want to talk football, not trash.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
9:38 am
Trade; ur cool because I love our bird fans havin’ a fire in there belly standin’ up against unobjective trolls & leaches that feed there in sides.
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
10:16 am
I hope the offense can mix it more w/ snelling & rogers along w/ Turner, can they shape the running game in more 2 back packages,making them change of pace more, heck, do the end around re-verse w/julio when need be.
Jofo
December 22nd, 2011
10:25 am
The New Orleans sAINTS are still one-hit wonders!
Blove
December 22nd, 2011
11:20 am
Hey it aint a pointless rant if it’s the truth !!! Your QB is average ,Couch average, team average
The falcants only beat below r average teams this year ! Truth not rants
And again when will you garbage atl fans realize Matt Melt aint the answer !!! If this is a rant and not the truth go back and look at your record! Just try’in to help yall!!! Cause it hurts me to see all yall Garbage atl fans in shock. And discouraged.
over that last A@# whopp’n the Saints put on yall !!! Just try’in to help for the
Next MN game !! Not rant but plain honest truth. !!!
Big Dog
December 22nd, 2011
12:42 pm
The falcons are the new big dog in the south—ATL will beat new orleans—take it to the bank! ATL v. Green Bay for the NFC!!!!
Red Helmet Swarm
December 22nd, 2011
1:41 pm
Just savin’ finger muscle not to react to parasites(swamp juice)would take care of that. Let all of nola come on here cause they must be board on the saint site.
ShempHoward
December 22nd, 2011
6:31 pm
Matty Ice arm is so weak. He is unable to throw a football over 30 yards over 30 yards. Joe Montana had the same problem but won 4 superbowls. REGARDLESS OF WHO WINS THE SUPERBOWL THIS SEASON, I WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW THAT THE FALCONS HAVE ENOUGH TALENT ON THEIR ROSTER TO WIN THE SUPERBOWL THIS YEAR. WILL THEY GET IT DONE? I DOUBT IT, BUT THE OPPORTUNITY IS THERE.
stendek
December 23rd, 2011
12:12 am
Merry Christmas, almost, Mark. I want to believe in Matthew Ryan but I still do not. A loss to Saints will only deepen that disbelief. Who has MR beaten this season? Eagles, Seahawks, Panthers (twice), Lions, Colts, Titans, Vikings and Jaguars. The dregs of the NFL. Who have the Falcons of MR bowed to? Bears, Buccaneers, Packers, Saints and Texans. MR allowed his team to lose to the vastly inferior Bears, Buccaneers and, at that time, Texans. A group which, by the way, just went bellyup against the woeful Colts. Is that an elite QB? No. An average QB? No. A below average QB? Definitely. I have contended that MR has regressed markedly since his exceptional rookie season. Nothing to date has altered that perception. MR played with poise and confidence when he entered the NFL. That poise and confidence has completely disappeared. MR looks less like a leader most times than a deer trapped in headlights. This coming from one who has critiqued ALL the Falcon QBs since 1966. Before the jerks on here point to me as a Michael Sick apologist I want to remind all that I was in favor of the electric chair for the dog killer. So spare me that. Will MR win a playoff game? Maybe. A Super Bowl? Never. It is what it is!
trademark
December 23rd, 2011
5:30 am
I guess i want to respond to stendek, since it’s the only anti-Falcons post that seems to not come from Mars, or eating the whole damned crack-pipe….
Matt Ryan-16 comeback wins over 4 seasons. That is not, I repeat, NOT a description of someone who doesn’t handle pressure. I mean, really?
Below average QB? Again, ranked in the top 10 this year, and has been steadily improving, just look at the non-biased, non-opinionated numbers, they have no ability to distort the truth to serve their own purposes.
Dregs of the NFL? Seahawks (road), Eagles, Panthers (road), Lions(road), Titans. Please explain to me how these teams are “dregs” please? Three or four of them are potential or already-in-the playoff teams. And Carolina is playing their a$%es off lately, in case you haven’t been paying attention. Vastly inferior Bears? Huh? You do realize they were at full health at the time and were in the playoff hunt BIG TIME before Cutler went down, right? As far as the Texans losing to the Colts….again, if you’ve been paying attention, the Colts have turned it up several notches lately, and that was a DIVISION RIVAL. If you’ve been watching the NFL for as long as you claim, you should know by now that changes the whole game.
“A Super Bowl? Never.” Ummm…OK, why? Because you have to be one of the top 5 QBs in the league to get to one? Want me to list them that WEREN’T for you, since you obviously aren’t doing any research yourself? Grossman, Eli Manning, Delhomme, Gannon, Johnson, McNabb, Dilfer, Collins, McNair, O’Donnell, Humphries, Rypien, Hostetler, Williams, Eason….OK, damn, my fingers are literally cramping up here. You know the sad part? MAtt Ryan, at the rate of his progression statistically and field-general-wise, will be in that top 5 (or likely higher) in due time. It’s a mute point.
Opinions are like…well everybody knows the rest of that. Thanks for sharing. Let’s try a little reality. You don’t like Matt Ryan for whatever reason. Fine. No one’s forcing you to. I like him because he delivers. On the field and statistically a winner. I just disagree with you is all, it seems.
need4speed
December 23rd, 2011
6:11 am
i have seen a whole lot of his passes bounce off the recievers chest and face. Go between their hands too.
need4speed
December 23rd, 2011
6:24 am
IF you were to watch a saints game you would notice the biggest difference between Brees and Ryan is Brees receivers catch his passes.
Stepchild
December 23rd, 2011
7:00 am
Great post trademark @ 5:30
I think you outline a number of reasons to believe that MR will be the QB we need. I think you were a little generous with some of the claims though. The Super Bowl? We are talking about winning one, not just taking the team there. We have already visited the SB and watched the confetti fall for our opponent.
And yes statistically, MR looks very nice on paper….but he doesn’t have that IT factor as a QB or team leader. 1. His stats are much better than Tebow but can he will his team to victory. Can he command excellence from others? I always read about Brees & Brady conducting extra practice time with receivers….not only are they working but changing the culture of their organization….it’s required. 2. Can he make plays regardless of the situation? When nothing is working as planned…can he improvise…use his talents & intelligence to just find a way to make a play?(think of Eli Manning in the SB, escaping a sack and making a miracle throw) Or does he have to just throw the ball out of bounds because it didn’t look like that in practice.
I think the answers to those two questions are NO…..and that’s why he will always be a good/great QB on the stat sheet but not win over fans like perhaps Stendek & myself. Without those types of INTANGIBLES you end up with a guy who is capable but just not SPECIAL.
***I hate to say this but the M.Vick lovers (not me) understand this. When Vick is healthy he can be SPECIAL. Rothlisberger, Rodgers, Manning(both)….can be Special. Where does MRyan fall???? Game manager.
Stepchild
December 23rd, 2011
7:01 am
Matt Ryan in short is a capable NFL starter…..or a REALLY good backup. Kinda like Matt Schaub.
Stepchild
December 23rd, 2011
7:07 am
And while we’re at it….watch what’s going on in Carolina. We are the 2nd best team in the division this year but Carolina and Cam will be beasts for years to come. Cam is going to figure it out quickly and get those turnovers down….he’s a SPECIAL player….and their defense was decimated by injuries this year. Next year they will be tough to beat.
trademark
December 23rd, 2011
8:02 am
I dunno, a LOT of those QBs I listed on that post did win the SB. I think Ryan is more than capable, and also more than capable of improvising. I think what you’re describing is the “broken-play” mentality and instinct more than the improvising factor. Matt Ryan is more analytical. He reads the D’s (especially in the no-huddle) and adjusts in accordance. That’s a rarer talent and intelligence then the ability to instantly “fix” a broken play. The truth is, over 90% of the plays in the NFL develop EXACTLY how they’re supposed to from the playback, with the built-in adjustments for blitzes or receivers being out of position and so forth. Dumping it into the sidelines on the 5% or so of plays that are completely broken is no great sin. Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, for example, made a living doing it. All the way into the HOF. And no, I’m not trying to place Ryan with those guys. But no ones knows for sure if he gets there or not. Based on his first 4 years, which statically are actually better or right up there with them, and the fact that his progression level is also trending up in that same rate, I feel like the chances are pretty damned good. Ryan has a huge up-side, and that’s saying a lot considering how good he already is. The guys that scramble around and improvise and make those fantastic plays are great most of the time for only one thing: highlight shows. And when those plays don’t go the way they want, they can be disastrous, to the tune of maybe costing the game. Thanks, I’ll take the W before the highlight reel. As far as comparing him to Schaub….win record is a TON better with Ryan, I want the winner on my side.
stendek
December 23rd, 2011
11:55 am
Merry Christmas Trademark. To all Falcon fans. I appreciate your enthusiasm. I remember when Atlanta was awarded an NFL franchise. I was on Cloud 9. My enthusiasm matched yours. I lived and breathed every Falcon snap for the next, sorry, I have lost count, several decades. Enthusiasm gave way to faint hope then to despair as the 1960s gave way to the 1970s to the 1980s and so on. That Super Bowl championship which was just around the corner never materalized. I am now in the twilight of my years. Not many Falcon seasons left for me. A Super Bowl was laid out for the Falcons which they allowed the Packers to steal from them. Yes, the Falcons were destined to win that season. Not the gritty bunch of my hero Chris Chandler but a capable group. Except that Matt Ryan played more like a high school freshman than an NFL QB. Time window? Closed! SLAMMM! I guess I was most upset with MR when he slid a foot short of a first down instead of manning up. Premiere QBs do not let their teammates down that way. I do not dislike MR. I just do not envision him taking the Falcons to the promised land. The next game will go a long way towards my personal perception of the player. Misfires on open plays against Saints will be fatal. Sacks will be damaging. Throws out of bounds are not pretty because most cheerleaders do not catch that well. Thanks for intelligent comments. Best. Ho ho ho.
stendek
December 23rd, 2011
12:17 pm
Talent is nice but talent alone does not win championships. The Phillies were far and away the most talented pro baseball team but were sent to the sidelines right off the bat. Hee hee. The Canucks were stacked with talent but choked against the vastly less talented Bruins in the championship. Why? No team can win a championship without heart and other intangibles which simply cannot be measured during combines. If a receiver has blazing speed but drops passes what good is he? If a QB chooses to throw the pass out of bounds if primary target is not open or slides a foot short of a first down on a critical third down what good is he? Some of the most exciting football plays I have witnessed occurred long after the primary play broke down. I do not see these intangibles from Matt Ryan. I say do whatever the Hell it takes to win. Period!
ShempHoward
December 23rd, 2011
12:44 pm
Whomever says SCHAUB is a good backup is wrong and is brainwashed. Arthur Blank and former Falcon coach Jim Mora felt Vick was the second coming of Christ and thereby made the convicted felon RICH with a 200million contract. Meanwhile, Schaub was sitting on the bench, patiently waiting his turn to start and was wasting his formative years in which he could have been leading the league in passing. As fate would have it, and as justice would prevail–Vick had been hiding behind the shadow of his mediocrity and his poor performances on the field by bankrolling his illustrious ILLEGAL AND HEINOUS DOGFIGHTING OPERATION which slaughtered, electrocuted and drowned innocent creatures and some of Gods precious animals. As fate would have it, Vick got caught and served his prison sentence, while Schaub was being traded to Houston—where Schaub is proving that he is one of the premier quarterbacks–only behind Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees. Schaub is the 4th best qb in the NFL. Last year, Matt Schaub won the MVP trophy in the pro bowl and was considered the best players among all-stars. Schaub has proven time and time again that if Vick hadnt taken away the first 7 years of his career by starting ahead of Schaub, SCHAUB CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE BECOME A FIRST-BALLOT HALL OF FAME QUARTERBACK–PROBABLY IN THE TOP 10 IN NFL HISTORY. Thank you Mr. Vick for screwing up the career of Matt Schaub.
trademark
December 23rd, 2011
1:13 pm
LOL Shemp, dog, coach and back up QB killer….damn. Who’s the back up at Philly? He better watch out…oh yeah..Kafka (!) How funny is that?
Super Bowl!
December 23rd, 2011
1:37 pm
The falcons are primed and ready for the playoffs after that huge beatdown over jacksonville. The ATL will be in the super bowl this year or next—count on it. Julio and Matt—best combo in the NFC!!! Falcons beat the saints!!!
WreckingBall
December 23rd, 2011
3:23 pm
Super Bowl! I like your enthusiasm. I too believe the Falcons will win the superbowl. The Falcons just need to start believing in themselves. Their record easily could have been 12-2 had they beaten G.B., Saints and Houston. Had that happened the national media would have had more confidence in them as well as the falcons players themselves would have had more confidence. 12-2 looks so much better than 9-5. We had G.B. beaten 14-0 before they came back and made it a game down 14-6 at halftime. We had the texans beaten had touchdown passes and first down passes not been dropped. We had the saints reeling in o.t. and had possession twice–all it took was marching down the field and scoring the winning FG. Both times we failed and let them win the game when mike smith panicked and went for the fourth down play at his own 30. That was the dumbest call ever by a head coach in the history of the game. Sants didnt have to do anthing after that but line up and kick the winning FG. The Falcons, as I said before, have the ability to win the championship. Until they start believing in themselves, they will allways be DOORMATS and WANNABES.
stendek
December 23rd, 2011
3:38 pm
Here is the not so secret defensive game plan to either beat Saints down or lose by 100 points:
Resurrect Jerry Glanville Glitz Blitz for one night. One magical night. Hit Drew Brees so often that his bruises will have bruises. Allowing the Saint QB time is akin to ingesting arsenic slowly. Everything seems fine but only death awaits at the end. That is what the passive defense will accomplish. Just as prevent defense only prevents victory. Falcons are defending division champions. Play like it! A close defeat will pain me just as much as a blowout loss. Oh well. Merry Christmas fellow birdie watchers. Blessed be.
Saints R.E.A.M.
December 23rd, 2011
11:38 pm
Shemp, really??? If Matt Schaub was so good he would have won the starting job over Mike Vick. He couldn’t and the rest is history. If a backup is really that good he can win the starting job…otherwise…he has no one to blame.
Schaub, is a nice QB….he is no playmaker. He can make all of the throws but he has a panic button in him and will turn it over. He can thank his lucky stars for A. Foster & A. Johnson…a prime receiver and a great running game…heck I could put up some decent numbers with that group!!
trademark
December 24th, 2011
5:47 am
From ESPN stats:
(Ryan)”He is 42-18 in his career….has won more starts in his first four seasons than any quarterback since the Super Bowl era started in1966. ”
Clear yet?
Mr Charlie
December 24th, 2011
3:48 pm
I am just really glad Mark Sanchez is not our QB,,,,yea yea, he has won a playoff game, but he really looks bad. He should have 10 picks today.
Mr Charlie
December 24th, 2011
3:49 pm
Make that 11
Mr Charlie
December 24th, 2011
11:18 pm
All running QB’s are thugs. They can’t read and they stink. I’m glad we have Matt Ryan.
#7
December 25th, 2011
1:01 am
Vick > ryan—enough said!
trademark
December 25th, 2011
10:49 am
…uh…yeah, enough said…if you have the IQ of a piece of dung