On the shifty Jacquizz Rodgers and the shifting Mike Smith
"Sometimes I go for it, Greg, and sometimes I don't." (AP photo)
This post is an adjunct to the game column, which can be found here.
1. Jacquizz Rodgers injected some needed sizzle. Owing to his size (5-foot-6, 196 pounds), he’s often dismissed as a change-of-pace back, but his 49 yards on 10 rushes made him the star of a slightly upgraded ground game. Michael Turner had another in a series of indifferent games — 13 carries for 17 yards. On this day, however, the Falcons didn’t go as Turner goes (or doesn’t go). Rodgers gave them speed on the flanks and made the Buccaneers’ defense honor at least the concept of the run. He nearly outgained the heralded Tampa Bay tailback Doug Martin, who carried 21 times for his 50 yards. Could the Falcons have found their new feature back? It’s too early to make that leap, but this game was an indication that options exist beyond Turner.
2. Mike Smith got conservative at the end of the first half. The Falcons’ coach had his offense had his team wait until 22 seconds remained in the half to call timeout ahead of a third-and-11 play at the Tampa Bay 19. That might have been sound strategy, except that Matt Ryan found Julio Jones for 15 yards to the 4, meaning that the Falcons had cut it too fine. In trying to leave the opponent no time to respond, they left themselves too little time (15 seconds) after the conversion that didn’t yield a score. Ryan missed Jones on first-and-goal and threw it away on second down, leaving four seconds for Matt Bryant to try a 22-yard field goal for the lead. Which he missed. Ouch.
3. The same Mike Smith got daring near the end of the second half. Just when you think you’ve got Smitty pegged, he’ll make you rethink. With a minute left and the Falcons ahead by a point and the Buccaneers out of timeouts, the Falcons threw on third-and-18 from the Tampa Bay 37. An incompletion would have meant the Bucs could have gotten the ball back with roughly 50 seconds remaining. Asked if he worried about an incompletion, Matt Ryan said: “Every time I take a snap, I think I’m going to complete it.” Sure enough, he did — to Tony Gonzalez for seven yards. And now the Falcons had Bryant try a 48-yard field goal with 13 seconds left, when a pooch punt might have been the safer play. Bryant missed again, giving the Bucs the ball at their 38 with eight seconds to play. The game ended with Josh Freeman’s pass being batted away in the Falcons’ end zone. Whew.
By Mark Bradley
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136 comments Add your comment
The Falcons win the kind of game they’ll play in January | Mark Bradley
November 26th, 2012
5:32 am
[...] reading: On the shifty Jacquizz Rodgers and the shifting Mike Smith. By Mark [...]
Paul
November 26th, 2012
5:45 am
First!!
Paul
November 26th, 2012
5:47 am
The Falcons would be 11-0 if they hadn’t relied on Turner around the Goal Line vs. the Saints. I hope they’ve learned that lesson for the playoffs.
Strange Murphy
November 26th, 2012
6:08 am
4th! WOOOHOOOOOOO!!!!
drew
November 26th, 2012
6:08 am
All’s well that ends well….but the FG attempt was not smart football. We should have punted, or better yet, just have Ryan drop back, roll out, kill as much time as possible, then throw it as high and far as possible, and you’d probably burn up that 13 seconds. But it’s all good.
Dc
November 26th, 2012
6:17 am
The pass and the fg try at the end made no sense at all. A punt out the back of the stadium wouldve given TB the ball at the 20 with under 15 secs to go. Baffling set of decisions
Jethro
November 26th, 2012
6:22 am
1. The Falcons need a punt return man with better JUDGMENT. Franks continued to disappoint by calling for a fair catch when there was no one within 15 yards of him.
2. Turner is easy to catch and hard to bring down, but the Quizzer is hard to catch in the first place – in space. The pitch plays to the Quizzer are game changers. Who says you have to run up the middle?
3. Don’t really know how good this team is, but the team and season are special. Don’t waste it by doubting every little thing along the way.
JSS
November 26th, 2012
6:30 am
Nothing Smith does is “baffling.” New Age Barney Rubble is tuning up for the post-season…
Sly Boarders
November 26th, 2012
6:42 am
Do you think Mr. Lofton is enjoying his NO money as much as he thought he would?
Larry
November 26th, 2012
7:09 am
JSS,
The Falcons are a missed opporutnity with four shots to score at first and goal from the one yard line from a perfect 11-0 record.
Put that in your pipe and smoke it, sparky!
j
November 26th, 2012
7:09 am
FG try at end of the game was not smart football.
No way to defend it
Larry
November 26th, 2012
7:13 am
drew,
A 47 yard field goal attempt with an elite kicker to put you up by four with 12 seconds remaining IS smart football. Byrant simply missed, that’s all.
Do you remember what Matt Ryan did with 9 seconds left against the Bears in 2008? He hit Jenkins with a pass that set up a game winning 47 yard field goal.
A 4 point lead against a team with zero timeouts and 12 seconds left is very SMART football.
Tech Actuary
November 26th, 2012
7:22 am
The pass play was one of the stupidest calls I’ve ever seen. The only real chance they had to win the game was for us to throw an imcomplete pass. Then they would have actually had time to get into field goal range. We then compounded this poor decision by kicking the field goal. Had we made the field goal, we would have been kicking off and there really wouldn’t have been enough time for them to get in field goal range anyway.
If we had just punted out the back of the endzone they would have had about 12 seconds left. They would have needed to complete a 40 yard pass and then a 56 yard field goal to win the game. The missed field goal meant they only needed one significantly shorter pass. I’m not sure why they didn’t try to get in field goal range but I’m happy they didn’t.
Also, why would we throw a screen pass to “lead shoes” Turner when we have Rodgers available? The Falcons need to learn on the job a little faster because our game management was terrible and will cost us in the playoffs.
Me Too
November 26th, 2012
7:29 am
Be prepared to loose in the playoffs because of this conservative coach.
c u later
November 26th, 2012
7:33 am
Michael Turner is washed up. He appears to be too fat, too slow, and too easy to go down to play a significant role at running back in the NFL. He is certainly not earning his “fat” paycheck with his play this year. RB should be a high priority in this year’s draft.
Peter
November 26th, 2012
7:33 am
Mike Smith prepared the Falcon’s for a hot Buccaneer’s team, and they won on the road…..
Ok then let’s keep complaining then !
yep
November 26th, 2012
7:35 am
Uhh may sound crazy but why not deal for Knowshon. Could get a killer deal for him out of Denver seeing as how they would love to get rid of him. I’m sure getting out of Denver would have a positive affect on him. Unlike Turner you can count on the 3 and 4 yd gains out of him…just sayin
Dave
November 26th, 2012
7:36 am
Why isn’t the safe play at the end of the game a play that will eat a lot of time, even if it doesn’t result in a first down? Say the Falcons had tried a reverse, handing to Rodgers who heads right before handing Jones headng back the other way. Even if Jones doesn’t break free for a first down, surely whatever time left will be miniscule allowing the Bucs only one play instead of the two they had. Jones might even be able to avoid being tackled or forced out of bounds before the end of the game. I don’t understand trying a long FG that, if missed, will give the Bucs field position where they only need 20 yards or so for a long FG of their own to win the game.
Satan smells
November 26th, 2012
7:44 am
WOW a lot of gripes from the experts about a coach that is in first place with only one loss. how is the team that you are coaching doing? Not a coach? Who would have guessed.
DC Dirty Bird
November 26th, 2012
7:48 am
I’m starting to think that Mike Smith is holding this team back. Les Miles gambles, but he has a track record of being successful. Mike Smith gambles when he shouldn’t and plays conservative when he should gamble.
In my opinion, the only reason why Mike Turner is still the starting RB is because Mike Smith still somehow thinks that power running wins in this league.
Whiskey Breath
November 26th, 2012
7:51 am
The game is neck and neck every year. The only mistake Smith made was sticking that kicker out the second time. He had already proved it wasn’t his day with the miss of the 22 yard kick.
Other than that, Smith out coached the Bucs. That great record is a testament to
Smith. And by the way, he doesn’t brag about his religion.
falcon
November 26th, 2012
7:53 am
I think Coach Smith is a heck of a coach, but I agree that wasting 20 seconds to end the 1st half, then trying for a long FG instead of punting were not the correct calls to make. I think Smitty was giving Bryant an opportunity to redeem himself after blowing the chip shot FG.
Mark Bradley
November 26th, 2012
7:55 am
Kudos, Paul.
GT
November 26th, 2012
7:55 am
Mike Smith is paid to win football games, and he does. He makes you have to watch the whole game, but at the end he usually wins.
Nativebird
November 26th, 2012
7:55 am
Good win on the road against a tough division foe. However, I am getting more than a little concerned about Matt Bryant. Can’t miss field goals when you have a field goal minded head coach. If we lose that card to play, it could spell trouble. On the other hand, it could help Smitty actually determine what his team can and can’t do….which is a historically blind spot of his.
DC Dirty Bird
November 26th, 2012
8:00 am
Larry, you are forgetting one important fact. Our elite kicker missed a 20 yarder earlier in the game. Also, the last i checked, a punt play with no return takes just as much if not more time than a FG. As such, you play the percentages. A team starts at the 20, with 8-12 seconds to go, no time outs, and a defense that knows that any play that doesn’t go out of bounds effectively ends the game. I think the probability of losing in that situation is a lot less than the probability of missing a 48 yd FG.
Tech actuary,
The Bucs did try and get into field goal range, unfortunately, the only pass play to get out of bounds was the short 7 yd pass to the TE. This all should have been happening from the 20 at worst.
Getaway
November 26th, 2012
8:01 am
Ho hum another win when they could of lost. This team… I swear, down by 9 in the 4th and I said, oh yeah, they got this.
I think the Falcons are still going to be able to sneak up on teams because they have the most underrated defense in football.
Got to share this, yesterday was the first Falcons game my wife has watched this year. She thought Dunta Robinson was the best player on defense. Ha! He did look pretty good in the first half. Hope he and Assante recover quickly. But, how about McClain?
GTT
November 26th, 2012
8:02 am
I see no use for Michael Turner after this season, unless he’s a good coach.
Tim
November 26th, 2012
8:02 am
Amazing-the team is 10-1 and people are still being critical of the coach, the players, play calling, etc. Hey folks, you could be Kansas City.
Getaway
November 26th, 2012
8:04 am
Nativebird – Maybe it’ll make Smith think twice about playing for a field goal…
GTT
November 26th, 2012
8:04 am
Turner has become like an Orc in the Lord of the Rings. One light swipe and he’s down.
collegeballfan
November 26th, 2012
8:05 am
I have no idea what the problem is with the running game, but it is a problem. If it does not get fixed the Falcons will be a “one and done” in the playoffs.
GT
November 26th, 2012
8:05 am
The Falcons wear the opponent down, and I think Turner is part of that. The fourth quarter is usually ours.
cornjolio
November 26th, 2012
8:06 am
RB & kicker should be off-season priorities
BravesFan79
November 26th, 2012
8:08 am
I think Michael Dwyer of the Steelers would be a better fit for the Falcons than Moreno. Hes a really good backup for the Steelers, so doubt they would wanna get rid of him tho. But a Dwyer/ Rogers combo would be nasty!
AlanFalcon
November 26th, 2012
8:12 am
Smitty had an unusual day with two bad decisions, not sure where they came from but for sure it was out of charcter for him.
Glad for the win and the hard fought effort by the team.
cdbgolf
November 26th, 2012
8:13 am
When were the Falcons down nine at all in this game?
Just asking?
D man
November 26th, 2012
8:13 am
Why is anyone complaining about anything? We are the best team in the NFL this year. We are so good, that we can turn the ball over 6 times in a game and win. We have never seen 10&1 before. We have the most potent offense in the NFL and our Defense is playing stingy football. We just shut down the best running offense in the league. I can’t wait for Thursday night…
D man
November 26th, 2012
8:16 am
We are 10&1.
diamond-e
November 26th, 2012
8:22 am
I agree that tip toe must go,also it was good to see quizz get some reps and julio strut his stuff.Hats off to the o line for the time they gave ryan,another 300 plus game.The missed field goals in NO probably cost us the game,but money matt bryant has won us a few this year also.I feel good about the team and we’ll get a chance to see how good they are in the next 5 games..Peace Love and DIRTY BIRDS
4DaBirds
November 26th, 2012
8:27 am
Chris Ivory will be a FA.
Brandon Jacobs will probably be available and healthy.
We need a big fast bruiser who runs hard to the whole.
Bill
November 26th, 2012
8:28 am
Smith got away with one there. If the Bucs had converted the Hail Mary, Smith would have been torn a new on by fans and the media.. A pooch punt was the correct call. It would have had the Bucs start at the 20 at best with around 5 seconds left. That is no time to get a pass to a position where Freeman could have launched one into the end zone.
Hope Smitty got his bonehead call out of the way before the post season starts.
Ted M
November 26th, 2012
8:32 am
Time management was terrible at the end of the first half even if Smith has no faith in his defense and thought 15 secs was too much for them to defend.
Big Crimson 75
November 26th, 2012
8:34 am
There were some interesting decisions at the end of the Game!!
Was it not the proper call to punt at the end?
Thankfully for Smitty, another 5 secs went off the clock as Bryant sailed it wide right.
As for the constant harping on the running game & playoff victories, this isn’t your daddy’s NFL!!
Have you seen GB play? How bout the Giants?
They can’t run either!!
Joey
November 26th, 2012
8:34 am
Turner is terrible. Barely a shadow of his 1st season.
Ted M
November 26th, 2012
8:35 am
Moreno stinks. He was near last in every category the NFL combine except bench press.
Ted M
November 26th, 2012
8:38 am
Tech Actuary – I was thinking the same thing when they threw that screen pass to Turner.
Carzo
November 26th, 2012
8:38 am
I couldn’t believe we didn’t punt at the end. Smitty has been great but that was incredibly dumb. It is great , though, to whine a little and still be 10-1.
jerry
November 26th, 2012
8:46 am
Is Mike Smith actually losing some of his pigheadness by using Rodgers more? After all the failures of Turner to even gain a yard in critical situations and three playoff flops by him, it’s way past time to dump the least productive player on the team.
Sam
November 26th, 2012
8:49 am
Tech Actuary took the words right out of my mouth. In both situations I was thinking the same thing.
I hate seeing him run into the back of the offensive lineman for half a yard gains, but I think Turner can still be a good back for us. It’s all about the play-calling and whether the player does what he is supposed to or not. Better blocking would definitely help.
dean
November 26th, 2012
8:50 am
This is a funny game. SD gave up a 4th and 29, yes, 29 yards yesterday. NE scored 3 touchdowns in under a minute the other night.
I see 10-1 and feel mighty blessed to be a Falcons (warts and all) fan these days.
dean
November 26th, 2012
8:51 am
Release me……Releeeeeease me…….
jerry
November 26th, 2012
8:51 am
@GT
The Falcons wear the opponent down, and I think Turner is part of that. The fourth quarter is usually ours
The Falcons were out scored in the 4th quarter 10-7.
Big Donnie
November 26th, 2012
8:53 am
” Could the Falcons have found their new feature back? It’s too early to make that leap, but this game was an indication that options exist beyond Turner.”
What do you mean it’s too early Bradley? There are 5 games left, and Turner continues to show that he is finished. I also liked how we actually used Snelling. Quizz and Snelling need to carry the load. Turner is (again) done.
DC Dirty Bird
November 26th, 2012
8:55 am
Sam,
Better blocking would help any running back. $5 million RB’s shouldn’t need big holes to be effective. They set up their blocks and make their lineman look just as good as the lineman make them look. The guy has no burst once he sees a crease and no burst to get by a lineman chasing him down from the back side. Yes he can still be used…no he shouldn’t get important carries in the first half.
bob W
November 26th, 2012
9:01 am
What happened to the hurry up offense the last few games. better use it vs NO and with Rogers in the backfield not Turner. Next year we need another running back to go with Rogers, like the 3 NO has.
We also still need another pass rusher. Abe is 33 and probably won’t pay much longer.
Say what
November 26th, 2012
9:07 am
“Could the Falcons have found their new feature back? It’s too early to make that leap, but this game was an indication that options exist beyond Turner.”
Have to disagree. Rodgers is a major talent. He and Snelling need to be the backfield tandem, with Turner used late when the defense is tired.
I don’t understand the reluctance to recognize Rodger’s contributions every time he gets a chance. He has been instrumental in many wins this season. It must be becase of his stature and because he breaks the mold — you can’t look at him and say he’s another *insert star’s name*.
loel
November 26th, 2012
9:09 am
By the way,,,,, Turner is not an option. Turner is a waste, a drive killer, What he was in the past is the past. We,who know nothing, knew this all along.
Sanjeev
November 26th, 2012
9:11 am
it baffles me why Turner is still on the roster let alone playing. He’s a washed up has been. Thank you for your service. Time to make Quizz the featured back.
Say what
November 26th, 2012
9:11 am
@DC Dirty Bird, 8:55: Turner had good blocking and Mike Cox opening a crease in the first half and he tip toed into the linemen and went down. It was pathetic and he was pulled right after that, so hopefully the coaches are getting a clue. He is a huge liability at this point.
Section 212
November 26th, 2012
9:17 am
Chris Ivory will be the best RB pick up….Enough about the off season. Let’s focus on getting to 11-1 against a Saints team that will be ripe for a blow out. Falcons fans, here is a hint…traffic will be bad on Thursday evening, so prepare of it and leave for the game an hour earlier than you are currently thinking!
take it from me.
November 26th, 2012
9:25 am
If we play the teams in the playoffs the way we play the regurler season,we will lose in the first round! the Falcons need to start blowing teams away,instead of winning every game by one to three points,thats not the sign of a good team,its called luck!
Dusty
November 26th, 2012
9:25 am
Monday morning quarterbacks. The Bucs could not have been worse at clock management at the end of the game. They wasted over 30 seconds letting the clock run down to the two minute warning. Then took a time out at 1:56. That is bad coaching . Trying for the field goal was risky if it had been blocked – but it wasn’t and the Bucs made the worse of its situation. Short pass eating up half the time left then a Hail Mary.
One last thing, we were constantly reminded that the Bucs are the best team against the rush and worst against the pass. That does not mean the Bucs are best at stopping the rush, it means that their pass defense is so bad that teams pass more than run against them .. Matt Ryan had over 350 yards in the air – the best by any quarterback on Sunday and Julio Jones had over 160 yards receiving which was also the best by any receiver on Sunday. The team with the best defense against the rush is now 6-5 against pretty much the same teams we play. This is a passing league now with the run used to set up the rush. If you cannot defend against the pass you lose. Pure and simple.
BD
November 26th, 2012
9:34 am
The Falcons should trade Turner at the end of the season.
13 fans
November 26th, 2012
9:39 am
Turner’s too fat & too slow !!!
Carzo
November 26th, 2012
9:41 am
Say What: I remember the exact play you are referring to. You are so correct. Fat boy Turner tiptoed up to the backside of Konz and then just fell down with little contact, though Cox block left him a nice opening. I cringe everytime we hand him the ball. And how about that -7 yard carry at the end. Embarrassing.
take it from me.
November 26th, 2012
9:43 am
I say teams that run a balanced attact,and play lights out defence will win it all! teams such as the Texans and 9ers come to mine.
78dawg
November 26th, 2012
9:43 am
How many plays are we going to waste on Turner? I’m sick of giving him the ball. He is a game killer…..
hh2
November 26th, 2012
9:44 am
I’ve been wondering if they would ever really work Jacquizz into the offense full time. Mr Turner has provided some fine running in the past but is just too slow recognizing and hitting what’s there. With bigger holes Turner would probably still do ok but now we need someone quick and ready to hit it.
Jeff H.
November 26th, 2012
9:50 am
I was a big fan of Michael Turner up until this year. Clearly, he is out of gas. He hasn’t broken a big run all season.
Stop the Madness
November 26th, 2012
9:53 am
Mike Smith drives me nuts with his play sheet philosophy of only playing the percentages. He needs to learn how to put teams away early and then he can milk the clock. Problem is he wants to milk the clock with the score only being a field goal or touch down that separates the score. Someone in that front office (namely TD) needs to have a sit down with Smitty before the next game. We need to play aggressive ball on both sides of the ball from here on out. We need to build momentum now!
Jaded
November 26th, 2012
10:00 am
The trademark of a great GM is being able to sell stock right before it plummets. John Schuerholz was a master at this. I love TD, but he should have seen the handwriting on the wall that said Turner was going to hit the wall this year. His performance had slowly eroded over the last couple of years, and he turned 30 – the magic number for when running backs fall off a cliff – shortly after the end of last season. Turner should have been cut in the offseason, and we should have gone with a Rodgers-Snelling tandem.
I love Turner. He was an instrumental part of this franchise’s turnaround in 2008, but he sadly has nothing left to give. It happens to all running backs.
Enkinan
November 26th, 2012
10:02 am
I thought we were done with rushing Turner up the middle for no gain on first down 5+ times a game with a new OC. I was wrong.
gary32
November 26th, 2012
10:03 am
We are the worst 10-1 team in the history of the NFL….coach Smith is a dumb football coach if he wasn’t we would be 11-0…We have played the easiest schedule in the history of the NFL… this team is irrelevant until they win a playoff game…the regular season does not matter…”sarcasm off”…same ole same ole….if this were the Jets…Giants…Packers…or any northern media team this would be one of the greatest teams in football history despite how they have won…the Northern media bias is so obvious its disgusting!!!!
kreedham
November 26th, 2012
10:11 am
I suspect Turner will start all games (Smith not wanting to bruise his ego). I also believe we’ll see Quizz earlier and more often. So what if he doesn’t start!
trademark
November 26th, 2012
10:17 am
Turner is so fat, your Mama gives him diet tips
Fan from '66
November 26th, 2012
10:29 am
Turner is a hindrance to this team. He has no quickness or moves. He runs straight up instead of leaning forward so he rarely breaks a tackle by a defensive lineman. Therefore, when the hole closes he is too late getting there and instead of leaning forward for a three yard gain he gets pushed back for a 1 yard gain or no gain. If he were running behind a powerful offensive line that could blow the defensive line off the ball he might be effective bowling over defensive backs. but, our offensive line can not do that. Therefore, Turner is almost totally ineffective now. It is certainly easier to get a new back than a new offensive line and that is what we must do. It probably can’t be accomplished this year, and it will hurt us in the playoffs if Turner is allowed torun the ball much. If he is on the team next year, I will question the intelligence of the team’s leadership
Dianne
November 26th, 2012
10:38 am
I just love it when all these armchair coaches think they know more about how to coach our team than the man who took us to 5 back-to-back winning seasons and the current 10 & 1 season. Guess we know why he draws his money as a coach & these guys don’t.
Dwayne pn
November 26th, 2012
10:45 am
@ Me Too: How do you “loose” in the playoffs? This a new term to me. I know you can lose in the playoffs or have a playoff loss. Still not sure how to “loose” in the playoffs though.
10-1 is all that matters. Houston goes to OT against two crap teams yet they are dominate. The Ravens had to beat the Chargers in OT and mustered 16 whole points. Yet people want to bash the Falcons. This team has as good a shot as anyone in the NFL to win a title.
Dawgdad (The Original)
November 26th, 2012
10:46 am
That first half decision to let the clock run down was stupid, abysmal, and ultra conservative coaching. End of the game decision was questionable, but if Bryant makes the FG, game over, and Bryant usually makes his kicks, except yesterday.
Falcons 73
November 26th, 2012
10:57 am
I hate to say that I’m not satisfied with a 10-1 football team, but I am (not satisfied) and here’s the reason why. While I believe that Mike Smith is a terrific coach, he often reverts back to Marty ball when he/the team gets pushed into a corner. The obvious weakness with Tampa’s defense was their 32nd ranked pass defense and Marty, I mean Mike, insisted on trying to play smash mouth football at the beginning of the game (and throughout). And for the love of all that is holy, why in God’s name does Mike Smith keep running Turner out on the field without any success. It’s obvious to all that can see, that Turner no longer as the ability to hit the hole aggressively and really does’t need to be receiving any carries at the moment. If you look back on earlier comments from Todd McClure, it’s not totally the o-lines fault for the lack of running success (as apparent by Rodger’s ability to create and hit seams for a MUCH higher per yard a carry).
The Falcons could have clearly come out aggressive and put Tampa on their heels by gaining a lead via the pass, but Smith had to show that the Falcons could go toe to toe with T.B on the line of scrimmage. Mike, please stop messing around with anything that resembles play calling and let your coordinators call their own game.
Falcons 73
November 26th, 2012
10:57 am
I hate to say that I’m not satisfied with a 10-1 football team, but I am (not satisfied) and here’s the reason why. While I believe that Mike Smith is a terrific coach, he often reverts back to Marty ball when he/the team gets pushed into a corner. The obvious weakness with Tampa’s defense was their 32nd ranked pass defense and Marty, I mean Mike, insisted on trying to play smash mouth football at the beginning of the game (and throughout). And for the love of all that is holy, why in God’s name does Mike Smith keep running Turner out on the field without any success. It’s obvious to all that can see, that Turner no longer as the ability to hit the hole aggressively and really does’t need to be receiving any carries at the moment. If you look back on earlier comments from Todd McClure, it’s not totally the o-lines fault for the lack of running success (as apparent by Rodger’s ability to create and hit seams for a MUCH higher per yard a carry).
The Falcons could have clearly come out aggressive and put Tampa on their heels by gaining a lead via the pass, but Smith had to show that the Falcons could go toe to toe with T.B on the line of scrimmage. Mike, please stop messing around with anything that resembles play calling and let your coordinators call their own game.
gary32
November 26th, 2012
11:02 am
Totally disagree, I think Smith did the right thing coming out and running…they were expecting us to pass all over them and when we came out and ran it…it opened up the passing game because they had to respect the run…as for Turner I do agree with you he should be used only in special situations…he has obviously lost a step and Rodgers and Snelling should be the main backs…Snelling killed them on screen passes yesterday.
Dash Riprock
November 26th, 2012
11:04 am
1.3 yards per carry versus 4.9 yards per carry. Exactly what is it that makes this decision so difficult?
On the other hand, I doubt there is a single solution for the team that ranks #30 in yards per attempt and Rodgers’ season averages are only slightly less terrible than Turner’s.
Mr. Hankey
November 26th, 2012
11:14 am
If Chris Ivory is a free agent let’s snap him up. He plays with moxy. Not crazy about the dreads though, not much we can do about that. Sorry M Turner, you have eaten yourself out of shape. I bet you’re 260 if a pound.
Dan
November 26th, 2012
11:14 am
Think it’s funny when in all the pregame the talk is all about how Tampa is the hottest team in the league and how they are this weeks “team you don’t want to see in the playoffs” but after Falcons beat them they are really not that good
Aints Lose!
November 26th, 2012
11:15 am
“Despite the shortcomings, the Buccaneers held the lead with 10 minutes to go in the fourth quarter, but simply could not close out the win. Tampa, which has the best rush defense in the NFL could not stop the plodding Michael Turner from reaching the end zone with 7:55 remaining.”
http://www.thepigskinreport.com/2012/11/tampa-bay-buccaneers-squander-a-golden-opprtunity-vs-falcons/
Mike Smith
November 26th, 2012
11:16 am
Fans, don’t be so quick to judge Michael Turner. He’s still an EXPLOSIVE running back, and we need to keep our ZOOM FOCUS. You see, our football team is still in the PROCESS.
Gbirdatl
November 26th, 2012
11:31 am
Amazing all you Monday morning head coaches! Dump Turner for Moreno, Jacobs, whoever?! You’re nuts. Call the right plays for 33 and he is a killer- more explosive starts like the play he scored on instead of dives into the middle. Our undermanned O-line is the problem with the run game. We need to pull the guards and get them a running start instead of playing to their weakness blocking inside. That’s using your personnel properly.
Don’t forget we are a PASSING offense.
jw
November 26th, 2012
11:33 am
83rd! Nailed it!!!!!!!!
Why not enjoy the ride? As scary close and nail biting tough as it might be – let’s enjoy it.
We have a golden horseshoe right now, let’s carry it deep into into the playoffs – these close games are mettle for bigger things later on!!!!!!
We don’t get many chances like this – enjoy it.
Gbirdatl
November 26th, 2012
11:37 am
Mike Smith is a great coach. He needs to work with Koetter to get this offens more balanced. If you look at each of the eleven games you see a pattern. The further we get away from a 50/50 run/pass ratio, the harder it is for us to build and maintain leads and the closer we play the opponent.
You still need to be able to run for first downs to close out games especially with all the explosive offenses in the league.
diamonddaveincali
November 26th, 2012
11:47 am
anyone hear from Matt”choke” ryan? HiramSaint? STB4 and his alias? yeah, losing will shut almost everyone up. Here is your comeback to someone dogging the falcons. The Texans, almost lost to the lowly Lions on turkey day, they went to oT for the second game. their vaunted D was gashed. Why isnt anyone not trusting this team? Schaub doesnt have playoff experience?
the ravens, yet again played to their opponents level. they had to go to overtime to beat SD. Norv will be fired this year, count on it, but i dont hear why the ravens are not playing well.
see in the end all that matters is win in the post season and you get new respect. Funny how these two teams get respect even when they arent playing well.
well falcon fans it evident we dont get any respect. MARCH ON DIRTY BIRDS!
LuellaStevens
November 26th, 2012
11:53 am
I am so glad that coach Mike Smith was willing to make the adjustment against Tampa and allow Jacquis Rodgers to get a couple of touches in short yardage situations. Turner still scored his touchdown and I think everybody was happy. I also notice that Jason Snelling is getting a few more touches in games. FOLKS, THAT IS THE FORMULA FOR WINNING THE SUPERBOWL. Basically have a balanced running game with an explosive passing game. The Falcons have all of that and more and I think that the Falcons realize that they are on the CUSP OF GREATNESS. I think the Falcons are due for a breakout game (hopefully this thursday against the Saints) where the Falcons go and dominate, put up 50 plus points on the board, and finally win a game going away instead of all of these nailbiters. If you have a heart condition, I dont think you should follow the Falcons. It seems like all of their victories come in heart-stopping fashion. Go Falcons-win the superbowl in January!
Vic
November 26th, 2012
11:54 am
I REALLY think Smith is sand bagging the play calling, waiting for the playoffs to “unleash” the Offense and Defense.Giving our playoff apponents no film to study. We are winning by being smart and generic, low penalties. We are on pace to peak in the playoffs.
The Kicker, he missed a field goal in the DOME, home field !!(vs NO) Time to look for another kicker.
I’m not complaining, its always great to be a Falcon fan, especially this season.
Rodster
November 26th, 2012
11:59 am
Hey, a win in the NFL is a win. There’s no style points and most games are very close. Good for the Falcons. I think they are a pretty good team that could keep going in the playoffs.
yeahsure
November 26th, 2012
12:02 pm
Jaquizz + Chris Ivory would be awesome. Plus we get our FB back next.
I am encouraged with the playing time jaquizz got Sunday. I do not mind putting Turner in on some plays to get him some rest. However, if we are calling a screen, there is no way it should go to Turner. Dude is slow enough WITH momentum.
Macon Fan
November 26th, 2012
12:07 pm
Re: The field goal attempts. According to some here, the Falcons should just cut the FG kicker because the Coach should know he’s going to miss the kick. No point of even having a kicker if you don’t think he’s going to make field goals.
Chuck
November 26th, 2012
12:10 pm
Turner has the speed of a pulling guard, and goes down about as easy as a punter who’s picked up a bad snap. One touch to his ankle and he is looking for a soft landing. Who cares how powerful he looks when the holes close by the time he gets there, and the first defender will have him on the ground 80% of the time – even if that defender is already on the ground.
He has been stealing money for 2+ seasons; Rogers has broken more tackles THIS season than Turner has over that 2+, and he deserves the start.
Falcons 73
November 26th, 2012
12:11 pm
Here’s an article by Pat Yasinskas, with whom I rarely agree with but he’s right on the money this time.
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/42157/falcons-need-to-play-to-strengths
Hillbilly D
November 26th, 2012
12:14 pm
Looks to me like Rogers has what Turner doesn’t have anymore, quickness.
itpdude
November 26th, 2012
12:21 pm
I still say the Falcons need to keep a smash-mouth football-base. Yeah, Ryan has the air-weapons, but a lot of those passes are exponentially easier when the secondary stays honest with the threat of a hearty run-game.
Wish Smith would use Snelling more in the first quarter if only to beat up defensive lines and get them softened for Turner and Rodgers.
Predatory Lender
November 26th, 2012
12:24 pm
More pitches around short yardage needs and please punt the ball with 12 seconds left next time. Good grief!
Gatorman
November 26th, 2012
12:39 pm
I’ve always thought Michael Turner was one of the better back in the NFC, but he has lost a step and slowed down in general. With the many speed backs in coming out of college, it might be a good idea to draft one and cut Turner free. Maybe he will get invigorated and do well for another team. The other need is defensive backs and they Falcons do not have any top quality ones. Their allstar cornerback may not return from the injury, so they may need many.
LuellaStevens
November 26th, 2012
12:42 pm
I think the Falcons should trade Michael Turner to the New Orleans Saints for Chris Ivory. That would help our running game and give Turner a new lease on life. New Orleans will do it because every time they get a superstar, they always get rid of them because N.O. is too cheap to pay their superstars market value. Examples are Joe Horn, Robert Meecham, Reggie Bush–I can go on and on. Every time N.O. gets a bona fide superstar they wont keep them because they wont pay them market value. I think if the Falcons can zero in on Chris Ivory and somehow acquire him, the Falcons will begin an awesome dynasty here in Atlanta.
Old Bucky Cunningham - Frick Freak
November 26th, 2012
1:03 pm
Hire coach Smith at Tech!!
The Truth
November 26th, 2012
1:12 pm
I like Michael Turner, but like the 49ers, we’ve got to go with what can do us the most good.
Our O line is just okay. We need speedy backs who can get around their average run blocking. Put Rogers and Snelling in. They are shifty and tough. We can get more bang for the buck.
Turner does great when there is a open hole. But when the hole collapses, so does he.
Van Brocklin
November 26th, 2012
1:20 pm
For those of you that watched the game closely, can anyone explain why the Falcons ran the ball so much but never used it to set up the play action pass? Also, how hard is it to read Matt Ryan’s audibles at the line of scrimmage. Whenever he shouts “kill” at the line he is audibiling to a running play. What’s up with that?
Dirtybirdsin'12
November 26th, 2012
1:25 pm
I personally liked the call to kick the field goal. Matt Bryant is normally a reliable kicker. Had the kick gone in, the Falcons would have kicked the ball out of the end zone and TB would’ve had the ball at the 20 needing a td with 13 seconds and no timeouts. I like the odds in that scenario better than them having the ball inside the 5 needing a fg. I’m sure the Panthers would agree with me. As for the rb situation, I’m positive that a Turner replacement/ Quizz compliment will be found this offseason through the draft or free agency. I don’t want Moreno. We don’t have Central Michigan on the schedule for him to make a highlight reel. Moreno’s never been able to run well in the NFL, and based on the fact that he wasn’t even active until Mcgahee went down, I don’t think he’s a good locker room guy either. If Latttimore comes out, he’ll probably be available in the 3rd or 4th round, and I’m sure that there are a few under the radar guys who can be had in the middle rounds of the draft who will find success if given the oppurtunity. Obviously I’d take Dwyer if he can be acquired for a decent price, but I doubt that Pittsburgh is willing to let him go just yet considering he’s been their best back this year by a fairly wide margin.
SawThat1nce
November 26th, 2012
1:33 pm
Drew Brees had 5 touchdown passes yesterday, is that another record that he has broken?
Billy (not Martin)
November 26th, 2012
1:39 pm
Michael Turner is too slow comming off the ball.
I slow-mowed several of his cariies yesterday.
He is 8 yards in the backfield and Matt literally took 4 steps back to him each time andTurner only moved about a yard and half at the most forward before he got the ball.
The holes were there but quickly shut down before he got to the line.
Too slow turner.
Stock Pile
November 26th, 2012
1:40 pm
I swear, it seems like Michael Turner looks where the defense line is congregating and run straight into that stockpile for a 1 yard gain (worst case, loss of yards).
Mask of False Bravado
November 26th, 2012
1:56 pm
Turner has become the sacrifice bunt by the ptcher with one out. He serves no purpose but to advance the game by 1 down.
Samuel
November 26th, 2012
2:24 pm
The hot back should be featured for that game. Being said that, the Falcons have the luxury of having three backs that all bring something to the table. We know if there’s no hole Turner is not going to be productive. He’s basically a north and south runner. with Quizz he can create something and make you miss in open space. Snelling catches well out the backfield and brings power and a little more speed than Turner. So the offensive line has to move people off the ball and the running backs have to figure the rest out…..
sam
November 26th, 2012
2:27 pm
Michael Turner has one year left in his 6 year deal for $5M. I doubt anyone’s going to pick that up, so I don’t see him going anywhere. Let’s just hope he drops some weight in the off season and the coaches can find some type of meaningful role for him. That would be next year, as in pre-season. This year we’re trying to win a championship so it’s time to go with Rogers and Snelling and quit giving away downs.
Brendan
November 26th, 2012
3:06 pm
I’m just happy the Falcons won. People forget that when this team plays badly, or down to the level of their opposition, they often lose. That hasn’t been the case this year. 10-1 is way better than 7-3, which is what our record really, truly could be. Let’s be happy that with these wins, Atlanta might secure home field advantage.
I’m not entirely sure, but if the Falcons beat the Saints on Thursday, I think that clinches the division. If it doesn’t, it surely forces Tampa Bay to run the table to catch us.
Brendan
November 26th, 2012
3:11 pm
Sam, let’s not forget that Michael Turner should have fresh legs, come playoff time. He cannot say, “I’m worn out from all my carries during the year.” That could be a good thing for us, come playoff time. I, personally, think the Falcons are looking at a 1st round bye, even if they wind up the # 2 seed. That rest could be essential in the Falcons drive for a prospective run at the NFC Championship.
To me, the best team in the NFC is San Francisco, followed by Green Bay. Then it’s arguably Atlanta, but some suggest NYG, Tampa Bay, or even the Saints. For Atlanta to earn their respect, they’ll have to beat teams like the Packers, Giants, and 49ers to reach the Super Bowl. And if they do, then they’ll get that respect.
I hope New Orleans does NOT make the playoffs. I’d prefer not to see them again, or the Buccaneers, for that matter.
ppeck
November 26th, 2012
3:37 pm
That little shovel pass to Turner for a TD was a nifty move. Gonna see more of that kind of thing. If Turner get a sliver of daylight he is gone. Getting him that hole is hard. Quizz is impressing me more and more as I watch him cut and dice on those open field plays and screens. Fun to watch.
I bet the Falcons have some plays set up for the postseason that no one has ever seen. Hope one of them is a naked bootleg from Ryan to the end zone for a TD !
Defense wins Titles
November 26th, 2012
3:57 pm
Hello! You play to win the game. l love the 2012 Falcons. Their coaching staff, coordinators, gameplan to beat the particular team we play that week. l would take 19 – 0, with 19 one point wins every time. Defense the opponents’ Offense. Take what the opponents’ Defense gives us and score enough to win. Falcons have great playmakers. Just let them play. Falcons change from week to week. That makes it tough for opponents to prepare for us. Go Falcons, just 8 more 1 point wins to Super Bowl Title.
listless
November 26th, 2012
4:45 pm
Are the falcon coaches the only ones who can’t see Michael Turner is pathetic?
EVERYONE I talk to thinks Turner’s tippytoe style reminds them of a girl playing.
Wink
November 26th, 2012
5:05 pm
The run game will have to improve, granted we are 10 – 1, but we need more quick toss plays to backs, Turner needs the time to get that load moving. Pretty sure he is not the answer, two years ago yes, not now.
Are the Falcons O-line still using the “legal” chop blocks in the run game? Defenses use to hate to rush us, I believe the coach of that technique is no longer with the team. Maybe that is why our run game has suffered the last two years???
Jay Dawg
November 26th, 2012
6:21 pm
Got to do something about the RB position. Turner cannot make a cut in the hole. Too slow and too easy to bring down.
Sean
November 26th, 2012
7:24 pm
I wouldnt cut Turner’s carries out all together, he’s still got some gas in the tank…well, he’s running on fumes. But I did like what they did early in the past 2 games. Split the carries between Cheeseburger Turner and Pop Quizz (with a little dose of Snelling.) It was effective and for some reason, Turner seems to run better once he sees someone else out there about to take his job. But for the life of me, I cant understand why they keep handing the ball to Turner over and over and over…drives m completely bananas!
LOL at The Aints
November 26th, 2012
9:39 pm
JSS November 26 Nothing Smith does is “baffling.” New Age Barney Rubble is tuning up for the post-season…
Shut up Dimmwit,, who cares what you think,, Your’re an Idiot. LOL
2 > 7
November 26th, 2012
9:47 pm
MNF: Self proclaimed Dynasty vs Self Ad buying Superbowl Champs.
Wow, must see TV.
LOL at The Aints
November 26th, 2012
9:48 pm
In other news, how about those Aints! LOL
A True Fan
November 26th, 2012
10:27 pm
Everyone here is worried about the wrong things. We win, people complain. We lose, people complain and want some ones head on a platter. The Falcons are winning, that is all that matters. Who cares what the media thinks. Who cares what the Monday (wannabe) Coaches think. They are winning. BIG or small, a win is a win. Enjoy the season, enjoy the progress of our great team. Cheer loud and strong, beat the Aints and lets get another thursday night win. Rise Up Falcon Fans this is our year. DEAL WITH IT!!!!!!!!!!
LOL at the Aints
November 26th, 2012
10:36 pm
2 > 7, JSS, is that you LOL, Why, i Do believe it is. LOL
2 > 7
November 26th, 2012
10:38 pm
What? I thought JSS is a troll.
SawThat1nce
November 26th, 2012
11:30 pm
Like I said earlier five touchdown passes thrown by Mr. Brees.
SawThat1nce
November 26th, 2012
11:34 pm
What is the record for the most pick-6s thrown by a QB in a single game?
I would like to see Brees get that record, also.
Whopper Dawg
November 27th, 2012
6:30 am
A back that can actually move laterally. Looks different doesn’t it. Now imagine one that is 210 and 6′2″ and can catch.
Note to TD, they are out there. You passed on several in this last draft for what?
PlanB
November 27th, 2012
8:01 am
Dianne
November 26th, 2012
10:38 am
I just love it when all these armchair coaches think they know more about how to coach our team than the man who took us to 5 back-to-back winning seasons and the current 10 & 1 season. Guess we know why he draws his money as a coach & these guys don’t.
******************************************************************************************************
Dianne just doesn’t get it that we have the priviledge of seeing the game and then getting to make our decision. We learn from watching the game, and from that we post our thoughts. In 11 games, MT has created a record for his 2012 season. It’s not good. You don’t have to be an NFL coach to see that. Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result is not smart.
PlanB
November 27th, 2012
8:04 am
PS – I think MS is phasing MT out. At least I hope so.
Claude Humphery
November 27th, 2012
11:13 am
JUST WIN ‘BABY’
Robert
November 28th, 2012
8:06 am
Quizz played ball for 4 years with my son and at 8 years old everyone knew he was going to play on sundays. At 5 years old the 10 year old kids had trouble catching him before he even started to play football. All they have to do is feed him the ball and magic will happen.
Fantasy Football Week 13 Waiver Wire Gems: Knowshon Moreno, Bryce Brown and Other Running Backs You Need To Run Towards | Neverenoughfantasyfootball
November 28th, 2012
10:34 am
[...] sleeper waiver wire pick for running backs would be Jacquizz Rodgers. Last Sunday Rodgers outgained Michael Turner. Rodgers had 10 touches for 49 yards. He also [...]