Official Falcons 2008 season thread (1 Viewer)

[PatrickT]

I know there are a few homers here, but could not find an in-season thread. Let's start it off by discussing the QB future for the franchise. Do we fill it in the draft, FA or by trade? A few of the possibilities out there, in no particular order:

Draft

Brian Brohm, Louisville - Petrino's boy, knows the offense and is a top five/ten pick in his own right (not just because of Petrino).

Andre Woodson, Kentucky - Don't know much about him, other than that he gets a lot of press

Matt Ryan, Boston College - Don't know college ball

John David Booty, USC - Don't know college ball

Erik Ainge, TEN - Don't know college ball

Colt Brennan, Hawaii - Run and Shoot QB, makes me nervous.

FA

Rex Grossman - Um, no

Kyle Boller - Doesn't have a great history

Drew Henson - Parcells saw something, but couldn't bring it to the surface. Is there anything there? Listed that Vikes own his rights, but not on chart. Is he even still playing?

Josh McCown - some like him, some don't, but doesn't sound like the guy to build a franchise around

Cleo Lemon - Same as McCown

Jim Sorgi - Gotta figure he's got _something_ as the Colts have held on this long, but... Career backup?

Ryan Fitzpatrick - Career backup?

Trade

Aaron Rodgers - This has potential. 3 years of mentoring from Favre...

JP Losman - If Edwards wins the job, is he a fit, and would BUF deal him? Haven't seen him play.

Derek Anderson - You figure the Browns will have to pull the trigger on starting Quinn, they've invested round 1 money on him. I thought the Falcons should've traded for DA prior to the season when they still had Frye at number 1.

Chris Simms - TB put him on IR just so Atlanta couldn't get him, or so the talking heads have said. He's looked good at times.

Dan Orlovsky - Career backup?

Chad Pennington - Clemens could take over, but would we want him?

Donavan McNabb - I've heard trade rumors to CHI, why not Atlanta, while we groom a rookie?

Patrick Ramsey - Doesn't seem like a good fit.

Or perhaps we keep a Joey and/or Byron, draft a new franchise guy and suffer through one more year of mediocre QB play? I don't see any real slam dunks with the possible exception of DA.

Let the discussions begin. My personal thought? Petrino has already shown a tendency towards Louisville players (4 on the roster currently). I think he does everything he can to get Brian, and see if he can nurse Leftwich thru most of the '08 campaign. But we do have some cap room now, and I would think if a McNabb were on the table, it could go that way.

 

[KnowledgeReignsSupreme]

They are going to sign someone who puts butts in the seats. I doubt that would happen via FA, so look a your first draft pick being the highest rated QB on the board.

Now Pennington should be #1 on their FA acquisition list, since he's actually a good QB, but he's not exactly exciting. Bears should look at him also.

 

[Big Score]

The Falcons are well on their way to having a juicy 1st round pick & I think it'll be Brohm.

 

[Colin Dowling]

The Falcons are well on their way to having a juicy 1st round pick & I think it'll be Brohm.

Woodson is a MUCH better prospect then Brohm.

 

[Big Score]

The Falcons are well on their way to having a juicy 1st round pick & I think it'll be Brohm.

Woodson is a MUCH better prospect then Brohm.

However, Petrino may not think Woodson is the better prospect for his offense.

 

[PatrickT]

The Falcons are well on their way to having a juicy 1st round pick & I think it'll be Brohm.

I, unfortunately, am forced to agree. The poster who said Woodson is a better prospect might be right, but given the choice, I would think Petrino would go with the guy he's familiar with.But what's the first year plan with Brohm, should they go that way? Nurse Joey/Leftwich til he's ready, or throw him to the wolves right away?

 

[PatrickT]

Leftwich Out indefinitely, but not his "bad" ankle.

An MRI exam was administered to Leftwich's lower right leg Monday morning, but coach Bobby Petrino did not disclose the nature of the injury. Leftwich was hurt while making his first start for the Falcons in Sunday's 22-16 loss at New Orleans... The good news for Leftwich is that the injury did not affect his problematic left ankle, which he had surgically repaired while playing at Jacksonville.

Crumpler Doesn't need surgery

Falcons head coach Bobby Petrino Petrino said Monday that tight end Alge Crumpler would not have to undergo a surgical procedure on his problematic left knee. Crumpler was held out of Sunday's game against New Orleans — it was his first missed start in 38 consecutive games — because of discomfort in his surgically repaired knee and because of a mild sprain in his ankle, which was injured in Monday night's 31-10 loss to the Giants.

"The combination of the knee and the ankle put some stress on his old knee injury so it's really [needed] rest," Petrino said.

Renardo Foster Gotta be an ACL, unfortunate, he was doing OK.

Petrino did not discuss the specifics of the left knee injury Foster incurred late in the game, but he did mention the possibility of adding a lineman to the roster to fortify the injury- depleted position.

Foster, a rookie from Louisville, made his second start at left tackle after assuming the position from Wayne Gandy, who suffered a season-ending left knee injury vs. Tennessee. Second-year player Quinn Ojinnaka is expected to take over at left tackle.

Todd Weiner Could be back week 10?

Weiner recently had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee and was projected to miss between two and six weeks.

Weiner has missed two games and was replaced by Tyson Clabo, who could be moved to left tackle if/when Weiner comes back.

Falcon TE Jim Mitchell Dead at 60 RIP

Career stats

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[PatrickT]

Falcons cut Grady Jackson

link

Bit of a surprise, but assistant GM (forgot his name) claims Trey Lewis is ready to start, and they have the depth at DT. Basically had been holding a spot for Coleman, and now that he's healthy Jackson is gone. Bad news for every KFC in Atlanta, don't know what impact it will have on the DT, seemed to me like he was playing pretty well.

 

[TommyGilmore]

Falcons cut Grady Jackson

link

Bit of a surprise, but assistant GM (forgot his name) claims Trey Lewis is ready to start, and they have the depth at DT. Basically had been holding a spot for Coleman, and now that he's healthy Jackson is gone. Bad news for every KFC in Atlanta, don't know what impact it will have on the DT, seemed to me like he was playing pretty well.

Hall rips Falcons over moveI hate to agree with DeAngelo Hall, but WTF is up with Atlanta's front office???

 

[MikeyFL]

Falcons cut Grady Jackson

link

Bit of a surprise, but assistant GM (forgot his name) claims Trey Lewis is ready to start, and they have the depth at DT. Basically had been holding a spot for Coleman, and now that he's healthy Jackson is gone. Bad news for every KFC in Atlanta, don't know what impact it will have on the DT, seemed to me like he was playing pretty well.

Hall rips Falcons over moveI hate to agree with DeAngelo Hall, but WTF is up with Atlanta's front office???

Wow, Hall can be a hothead, but I do think he cares deeply about winning. When veterans as well-respected as Dunn and Crumpler are also left mystified, it shows that the front office isn't communicating with players at best... or being deceitful at worst.

 

[TommyGilmore]

Falcons cut Grady Jackson

link

Bit of a surprise, but assistant GM (forgot his name) claims Trey Lewis is ready to start, and they have the depth at DT. Basically had been holding a spot for Coleman, and now that he's healthy Jackson is gone. Bad news for every KFC in Atlanta, don't know what impact it will have on the DT, seemed to me like he was playing pretty well.

Hall rips Falcons over moveI hate to agree with DeAngelo Hall, but WTF is up with Atlanta's front office???

Wow, Hall can be a hothead, but I do think he cares deeply about winning. When veterans as well-respected as Dunn and Crumpler are also left mystified, it shows that the front office isn't communicating with players at best... or being deceitful at worst.

Exactly. If it was only Hall, I would dismiss it. But it's also Crumpler and Dunn, and Dunn is one of the most respected guys in the league.

 

[PatrickT]

It's not like it's never gone thru my mind. But, if that's the case, why in God's name are we still starting Dunn every freaking week?

 

[Max Power]

Hall is right on the money with this one. Might as well change your thread title to 2008 offseason.

This season is a joke for ATL.

 

[Jeff Tefertiller]

Yes, Hall is right. But, this is a team in transition. They need skill position players in the worst way. The Falcons need help on the Offensive and Defensive lines (with or without Grady). With Joey and Leftwich at QB, Dunn at RB, Alge at TE and Horn at WR, the skill positions ae not what Petrino and compnay want. Yes, they have some good young receivers, but still need at least one more quality ball catcher. The defense is not where it was not too long ago. This is a team that is a few years away. Yes, the veterans want to win a few more games so they can possibly go 8-8, but it really does not matter long term. The veterans will slowly be eroded unless they buy into the new coaches' system. This is a team that will look very different in two years. Petrino is making the Falcons into what he wants them to be. It is as simple as that.

If Petrino really cared about winning games and making the playoffs, would Joey Harrington be named starting quarterback?

 

[FTRWRTR]

Yes, Hall is right. But, this is a team in transition. They need skill position players in the worst way. The Falcons need help on the Offensive and Defensive lines (with or without Grady). With Joey and Leftwich at QB, Dunn at RB, Alge at TE and Horn at WR, the skill positions ae not what Petrino and compnay want. Yes, they have some good young receivers, but still need at least one more quality ball catcher. The defense is not where it was not too long ago. This is a team that is a few years away. Yes, the veterans want to win a few more games so they can possibly go 8-8, but it really does not matter long term. The veterans will slowly be eroded unless they buy into the new coaches' system. This is a team that will look very different in two years. Petrino is making the Falcons into what he wants them to be. It is as simple as that.If Petrino really cared about winning games and making the playoffs, would Joey Harrington be named starting quarterback?

Overall they seem to be looking towards the future at the expense of upseting their veteran players since they're basically folding it in this season.As for atlanta's draft pick it all depends on what happens in fa but my guess is that they'll stick with lefty for their immediate starter and then trade for a young guy. I'm sure cleveland would be willing to part with derek anderson considering quinn cost them their 2008 first. And then the falcons will draft another wr with their first rounder

 

[PatrickT]

They may stick with Lefty, but I'm certain they'll be working trades for someone who can stay healthy. Maybe Joey will show enough for one more year. I don't know if the rumours of McNabb being on the block are true but, if they are, what a great pick up that would be to bring a young QB along, and still be able to win games.

I'm still convinced that if we're starting Norwood from day 1, we're 1 game over or under .500 right now. The lack of a run game has hurt so badly, that we can't close out close ones. We've lost 5 of 6 games by a touchdown or less, so the D is playing well enough to win (Yes, I'm counting MIN as 6 points or less, the D only gave up 10 points that week), and only the fact that the offense is COMPLETELY one-dimensional has prevented us from scoring. I don't get throwing in the towel at this point, especiall considering the division we're in. Even at 3-4 going into the bye week, there's a legitimate playoff shot in this division.

I don't know, maybe they felt that was a road to continued mediocrity, and are just going to clean house to try and build a consistent winner. That's all I've got to hang my hat on at this point. Any precedent for this sort of (potential) house cleaning resulting in a consistent winning franchise? Maybe that's how the Pat's did it?

 

[Big Score]

If Petrino really cared about winning games and making the playoffs, would Joey Harrington be named starting quarterback?

To be fair to Petrino, he can only work with the tools that Management gives him.Vick? Jail - not an option.Shockley? Torn up knee, IR - not an option.Redman? Hasn't played a down of football in what, three years? - not much of an option.Harrington? Kinda the last man standing - really the only viable option at the beginning of the season.Leftwich? As soon as he had some of the playbook down, he was announced as the Falcons starter for the rest of the season. Unfortunately he didn't last much longer than half a game playing behind that O'line, so...back to Joey.

 

[PatrickT]

And don't forget Schaub, traded away. Tho to be fair, it was the right decision based on the current circumstances.

I can certainly support shaking the org up and getting rid of some of the losing culture there. I don't think it was as bad as in some franchises as we've had some success in the last 7 years or so, I just hope he doesn't lose the entire team in the process. Dumping Jackson doesn't make a whole of sense to me, though, in any context. Maybe there was a locker room issue we don't know about.

I gotta believe, tho, that Hall and Petrino have little bridge left to burn, and he will be on the market for some draft picks, or perhaps a QB in the off-season. Shame, he's a great corner when his head is removed from his anal cavity.

 

[FFdork]

Hey guys. I'm starting to look towards the playoffs, and the Falcons appear to have a couple of decent matchups for RBs in weeks 14, 15. I'm wondering about the prospect of buying low on Norwood? I'm curious to know what people following the team closely think about if/when Norwood might get a chance at the featured role. From a distance it seems like it could be any time now.

 

[PatrickT]

It might work out, but, honestly, I can't advise you to do that. Norwood's non-use is both frustrating and mystifying, and I've seen nothing to indicate it will change. IF they do it, then I think he'll do very, very well for you. But at the moment, I'd look for a better option if it's available. If not, and you can get him cheap, do it and tuck him away while you're looking.

My best guess is that if they don't make the change after the bye week, they won't this season, barring injury.

 

[Bowbiejuke]

Falcons perspective from an ATLANTA HOMER . The Falcons if able will draft Brian Brohm or Matt Ryan. I am not gonna knock Woodson I think he is a great qb. Yet with Brohm knowing the system, the terminology, and the prior relationship to Petrino this just makes way to much sense. He could come in and be full speed in less than a year. This will also give them time to work on the O-line with the 20 mil in cap relief they might get back from Vick this offseason. I would consider Matt Ryan due to his tremendous arm strength and very percise ball placement. Woodson I think could be type cast as a Vick wanna-be replacement for the unknowing fans who pay little attention to college football. I would be happy with any of these guys as our QB going foward, but doubt Woodson unless he won the Heisman has a chance to land in Atlanta.

Norwood I have no freaking idea what they are doing with this kid, he is clearly faster and better suited at the current time to be the starter than hop skip Dunn is. They need to see if he can be a fulltime starter or that also could be an offseason need which need to be addressed.

Roddy White is finally looking good, and Laurent Robinson is definatley like by Petrino but anyone else here (Horn, Jenkins, & Jennings) is probably playing for thier future.

Crumpler he's going nowhere

O-Line - horrible but it was horrible coming into the season

Defensive Line - Jamaal Anderson is looking good, not the pass rushing pressence I thought he might be this year, but still getting good penatration.

Linebackers - Who knows Boley has been solid, but everyone else even brooking could be on the chopping block.

Defensive Backs - D. Hall setting up to be traded, I think he doesn't like how the Vick situation was handled by the Falcons and he is probably showing he loyal to his friend instead of the guys who sign his paycheck. Chris Houston is starting to look good, and the Falcons are very high on reserve safety Darren Stone.

We have a high first and high second and Houston 2nd also this year, hopefully some good cap relief at which point time the Falcons can hope to be a better in 2009, but competing week in and week out in 2010.

I hate to say this but Atlanta would be at least .500% with Vick as the qb, but he and we dug this hole that we are currently in.

Bowbie

 

[PatrickT]

Interesting take by Mark Bradley, AJC. But I wish one, just one damn reporter, would ask him point blank, "Why is Norwood not starting when he is CLEARLY outperforming Dunn?" Haven't heard or seen it yet.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

This much seems clear: The head coach plans to be here for the long haul, and he’s consolidating his power with every week. No longer the team Michael Vick left or the team Rich McKay assembled, this is becoming Bobby Petrino’s team.

The Falcons cut Grady Jackson for no compelling reason other than to show there are no indispensables on a 1-6 club, least of all a 34-year-old tackle who weighs upwards of 350 pounds. On cue, DeAngelo Hall ripped Petrino, same as Alge Crumpler had ripped him earlier. “They can cut me, too,” Hall harrumphed, and if I were him I wouldn’t give anybody any ideas. I get the feeling Petrino isn’t a man to cross. I also get the feeling he’s the man who matters most in Flowery Branch.

When was the last time McKay was quoted on anything? When have we seen or heard so little from the usually out-front (and player-friendly) Arthur Blank? There seems a concerted effort that management speak with one voice, and that voice is now the head coach’s.

Petrino doesn’t care about being anyone’s pal. He’s here to coach football. If certain Falcons can’t handle that, they need to go work somewhere else. More from Hall: “It’s kind of hard for other guys to play 100 percent … knowing that everybody’s not on board, from the front office on down.”

And that’s the point: The belief here is that Petrino essentially is the front office. Would McKay have handed Ovie Mughelli the fattest contract awarded a fullback had Petrino not demanded it? Would the Falcons have signed Byron Leftwich without a push from Petrino?

The belief here is that Hall and his fellow dissidents will be playing elsewhere next season. And Petrino won’t be coaching at Auburn or at LSU or at any other rumored bail-out destination; he’ll be coaching the Falcons, and they’ll be more to his liking.

 

[FTRWRTR]

Hey guys. I'm starting to look towards the playoffs, and the Falcons appear to have a couple of decent matchups for RBs in weeks 14, 15. I'm wondering about the prospect of buying low on Norwood? I'm curious to know what people following the team closely think about if/when Norwood might get a chance at the featured role. From a distance it seems like it could be any time now.

I'd do it, I can't imagine dunn will be back next season and I can definitely see the falcons featuring norwood late in the year....but I'm high on norwood so I might be biased

 

[Truman]

Falcons perspective from an ATLANTA HOMER . The Falcons if able will draft Brian Brohm or Matt Ryan. I am not gonna knock Woodson I think he is a great qb. Yet with Brohm knowing the system, the terminology, and the prior relationship to Petrino this just makes way to much sense. He could come in and be full speed in less than a year. This will also give them time to work on the O-line with the 20 mil in cap relief they might get back from Vick this offseason. I would consider Matt Ryan due to his tremendous arm strength and very percise ball placement. Woodson I think could be type cast as a Vick wanna-be replacement for the unknowing fans who pay little attention to college football. I would be happy with any of these guys as our QB going foward, but doubt Woodson unless he won the Heisman has a chance to land in Atlanta.Norwood I have no freaking idea what they are doing with this kid, he is clearly faster and better suited at the current time to be the starter than hop skip Dunn is. They need to see if he can be a fulltime starter or that also could be an offseason need which need to be addressed.Roddy White is finally looking good, and Laurent Robinson is definatley like by Petrino but anyone else here (Horn, Jenkins, & Jennings) is probably playing for thier future.Crumpler he's going nowhereO-Line - horrible but it was horrible coming into the seasonDefensive Line - Jamaal Anderson is looking good, not the pass rushing pressence I thought he might be this year, but still getting good penatration.Linebackers - Who knows Boley has been solid, but everyone else even brooking could be on the chopping block.Defensive Backs - D. Hall setting up to be traded, I think he doesn't like how the Vick situation was handled by the Falcons and he is probably showing he loyal to his friend instead of the guys who sign his paycheck. Chris Houston is starting to look good, and the Falcons are very high on reserve safety Darren Stone.We have a high first and high second and Houston 2nd also this year, hopefully some good cap relief at which point time the Falcons can hope to be a better in 2009, but competing week in and week out in 2010. I hate to say this but Atlanta would be at least .500% with Vick as the qb, but he and we dug this hole that we are currently in.Bowbie

I'd rather see us draft Jake Long or Michael Oher than any QB, though if I had to choose I'd go with Ryan.LT was a problem before with Gandy and is a huge hole now that he's done. Hall will be gone in the offseason, I can see McKay getting decent value there, hopefully he can drag Brooking, Dunn and McClure with him.

 

[FFdork]

It might work out, but, honestly, I can't advise you to do that. Norwood's non-use is both frustrating and mystifying, and I've seen nothing to indicate it will change. IF they do it, then I think he'll do very, very well for you. But at the moment, I'd look for a better option if it's available. If not, and you can get him cheap, do it and tuck him away while you're looking.My best guess is that if they don't make the change after the bye week, they won't this season, barring injury.

Thanks for the thoughts guys. I didn't mean to turn this into an AC question, just more looking for what people following the team closely think is going to happen with Norwood.

 

[Addai's Adidas]

Shouldn't this thread be closed, like the Falcons season?

 

[PatrickT]

Or your internet connection?

 

[Truman]

No, like his posting privileges hopefully.

 

[PatrickT]

Falcons perspective from an ATLANTA HOMER . The Falcons if able will draft Brian Brohm or Matt Ryan. I am not gonna knock Woodson I think he is a great qb. Yet with Brohm knowing the system, the terminology, and the prior relationship to Petrino this just makes way to much sense. He could come in and be full speed in less than a year. This will also give them time to work on the O-line with the 20 mil in cap relief they might get back from Vick this offseason. I would consider Matt Ryan due to his tremendous arm strength and very percise ball placement. Woodson I think could be type cast as a Vick wanna-be replacement for the unknowing fans who pay little attention to college football. I would be happy with any of these guys as our QB going foward, but doubt Woodson unless he won the Heisman has a chance to land in Atlanta.Norwood I have no freaking idea what they are doing with this kid, he is clearly faster and better suited at the current time to be the starter than hop skip Dunn is. They need to see if he can be a fulltime starter or that also could be an offseason need which need to be addressed.Roddy White is finally looking good, and Laurent Robinson is definatley like by Petrino but anyone else here (Horn, Jenkins, & Jennings) is probably playing for thier future.Crumpler he's going nowhereO-Line - horrible but it was horrible coming into the seasonDefensive Line - Jamaal Anderson is looking good, not the pass rushing pressence I thought he might be this year, but still getting good penatration.Linebackers - Who knows Boley has been solid, but everyone else even brooking could be on the chopping block.Defensive Backs - D. Hall setting up to be traded, I think he doesn't like how the Vick situation was handled by the Falcons and he is probably showing he loyal to his friend instead of the guys who sign his paycheck. Chris Houston is starting to look good, and the Falcons are very high on reserve safety Darren Stone.We have a high first and high second and Houston 2nd also this year, hopefully some good cap relief at which point time the Falcons can hope to be a better in 2009, but competing week in and week out in 2010. I hate to say this but Atlanta would be at least .500% with Vick as the qb, but he and we dug this hole that we are currently in.Bowbie

By Crumpler going nowhere, you mean he's staying with the team, or his performance is going nowhere? I think you mean stay with the team, and I agree.They obviously feel they had enough depth at DL to cut Jackson. Their explanation was that they'd been holding a spot for Coleman and, now that he was healthy, they needed to cut someone. I still don't understand that, seems like you keep a guy who's performing well, if not stellar.Agree on Stone, they'll likely start working him in more, as Milloy appears to be done. They also like David Irons (CB), who played very well in pre-season. At LB, Boley is having a whale of a season, and Demorrio is playing well too. They also really like Stephen Nicholas. Problem is, when Keith's time is done, I don't think any of them is capable of being a true impact ML. That needs to be an area of focus in the draft, I think.So, I agree with Hall likely being traded. What could we get for him? Is he worth a 1st rounder as a top 5 corner? How high of a first rounder? Or, perhaps we trade him for a vet QB, like a McNabb, who can win now, and groom the future QB.We might be .500 with Vick, but we'd still not be very good. At least now we can focus on the trouble spots. For me, I think we're .500 if we start Norwood from day 1. How do you know if the kid can carry the load if you don't give him a shot?

 

[PatrickT]

Full article link (might need to register)

Blurb

Running back

Warrick Dunn simply hasn't been able to make much happen, whereas Jerious Norwood (right) has made big plays. Though the coaching staff has reluctantly held firm in keeping Dunn as the top option, Norwood eventually will be the main ball carrier.

 

[PatrickT]

Does anyone really think that Shockley could be the guy? I like the kid, but I'm not buying. Might be the number two next year, tho, if they let Joey go and stick with Lefty

Full Article

Q. On that note, with there being some turnover and injuries at quarterback with Joey Harrington and Byron Leftwich, do you ever think about being in line to play had you remained healthy?

A. Absolutely. If I didn't do it I'd be lying. I've done it on occasion when I've been watching games and other times. If I don't hear it from my inner self, I hear it from outside, family members, close friends. A lot of people say, 'That could be you out there. You might be starting now.' I have to bring myself back down sometimes and not question why it happened and know I have other things that have been planned for me. Any thoughts other than getting better are really a waste of my time.

Q. Will you be healthy by next season and, if so, do you think you'll be back with the Falcons?

A. I'll be back, 100 percent ready to go. Plenty of people have come back from this injury and next year been very productive. There's no doubt about coming back to play. As far as being with the Falcons, I only hope and pray that I am. I can't control what happens or what the coaches may feel. I can just do my best and hope it's enough for the Falcons.

 

[PatrickT]

I'm an eternal optimist when it comes to the Falcons. I'm feeling pretty good about two wins in a row. Offense moved the ball and scored points when they got inside opponents territory, rather than stalling and missing field goals. Baby steps. The defense has been under-rated all year and has gotten better since they cut Jackson loose.

For better worse, it's almost certainly Leftwich starting this week. A win against the Bucs and all of a sudden (are you sitting down?) we're tied for 3rd and one game out of first in the NFC South. This, of course, assumes CAR loses and NO wins, which isn't a stretch.

It's a good year to be in the NFC South.

Holla

 

[zamboni]

I'm an eternal optimist when it comes to the Falcons. I'm feeling pretty good about two wins in a row. Offense moved the ball and scored points when they got inside opponents territory, rather than stalling and missing field goals. Baby steps. The defense has been under-rated all year and has gotten better since they cut Jackson loose.For better worse, it's almost certainly Leftwich starting this week. A win against the Bucs and all of a sudden (are you sitting down?) we're tied for 3rd and one game out of first in the NFC South. This, of course, assumes CAR loses and NO wins, which isn't a stretch.It's a good year to be in the NFC South. Holla

What do you think of Roddy White's chances at putting up a good game with Lefty in there? They seemed to have good chemistry in the brief time that Byron played a few weeks back.

 

[PatrickT]

I'm an eternal optimist when it comes to the Falcons. I'm feeling pretty good about two wins in a row. Offense moved the ball and scored points when they got inside opponents territory, rather than stalling and missing field goals. Baby steps. The defense has been under-rated all year and has gotten better since they cut Jackson loose.For better worse, it's almost certainly Leftwich starting this week. A win against the Bucs and all of a sudden (are you sitting down?) we're tied for 3rd and one game out of first in the NFC South. This, of course, assumes CAR loses and NO wins, which isn't a stretch.It's a good year to be in the NFC South. Holla

What do you think of Roddy White's chances at putting up a good game with Lefty in there? They seemed to have good chemistry in the brief time that Byron played a few weeks back.

Roddy will get most of the targets, but TBs strength is against the pass. We'll focus on running the ball as much as possible. I am personally sitting Roddy in the league I own him for either Branch or Henry, as I suspect we'll see a 50-60 yard day without a score. Roddy was something like 4 for 70 and 1 TD in a bit more than a half with Leftwich against NO, but TB is stingier.

 

[G-King]

I'm an eternal optimist when it comes to the Falcons. I'm feeling pretty good about two wins in a row. Offense moved the ball and scored points when they got inside opponents territory, rather than stalling and missing field goals. Baby steps. The defense has been under-rated all year and has gotten better since they cut Jackson loose.For better worse, it's almost certainly Leftwich starting this week. A win against the Bucs and all of a sudden (are you sitting down?) we're tied for 3rd and one game out of first in the NFC South. This, of course, assumes CAR loses and NO wins, which isn't a stretch.It's a good year to be in the NFC South. Holla

What do you think of Roddy White's chances at putting up a good game with Lefty in there? They seemed to have good chemistry in the brief time that Byron played a few weeks back.

Roddy will get most of the targets, but TBs strength is against the pass. We'll focus on running the ball as much as possible. I am personally sitting Roddy in the league I own him for either Branch or Henry, as I suspect we'll see a 50-60 yard day without a score. Roddy was something like 4 for 70 and 1 TD in a bit more than a half with Leftwich against NO, but TB is stingier.

Without me having to transfer this to a WDIS, Do you think that Atlanta will try to control the time of posession with the running game? I am asking for IDP reasons because last week Tampa did a better job of it than Arizona and it kept the Tampa D off the field. I am hoping that Atlanta pushes Dunn alot this week and the Falcons D shuts Garcia and Co. down

 

[TommyGilmore]

Petrino names Harrington as starter for Week 12

Another flip-flop from Petrino, this time using Leftwich's "injured tailbone" as an excuse. :IBTL:

 

[PatrickT]

I was just about to post that myself.

I have no choice but to give this guy a chance, but he's really got me worried. And, BTW, for those thinking he will bolt after this season, his contract is worked in such a way that he will lose large sums of money if he does. So the Petrino era is here for at least another year after this.

God help me.

 

[PatrickT]

Falcons will be interviewing a couple of Packers, personnel analyst John Schneider and director of pro personnel Reggie McKenzie.

Any Packer homers care to comment?

 

[dudaman]

Falcons will be interviewing a couple of Packers, personnel analyst John Schneider and director of pro personnel Reggie McKenzie.

Any Packer homers care to comment?

Pats homer here.... this tidbit came up in the Globe today, if anyone cares in Atlanta...The Falcons are seeking a general manager and a fresh outlook, and the name of Patriots director of college scouting Thomas Dimitroff has surfaced in league circles as a possibility. Now in his 18th season in player personnel and sixth with the Patriots, Dimitroff is considered a solid personnel evaluator, and his experience in New England should boost his candidacy.

Article

 

[Man in the yellow hat]

Falcons will be interviewing a couple of Packers, personnel analyst John Schneider and director of pro personnel Reggie McKenzie.

Any Packer homers care to comment?

I like McKenzie quite a bit. Smart guy, and seems to have knack for evaluating players. Well respected by the players (played in the league). He's interviewed for GM jobs before and not been hired. I'm not sure how to read that.http://www.packers.com/team/staff/mckenzie_reggie/

Schneider seems like a guy who could put together a very good staff, having been in that type of a position before. Seems like more of a strategic planning type guy than a hardcore talent evaluator.

http://www.packers.com/team/staff/schneider_john/

Hard to say which direction would be better here. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. I guess if I had to pick, I'd lean Schneider only because he has more experience with building the scouting/talent staff from the ground up.

 

[PatrickT]

Thanks for the info. A few more AJC speculated candidates. Also, we're interviewing Sparano and Garrett from the Cowboys on Friday.

McKenzie is believed to be among the first candidates to be interviewed. The search will be extensive, Blank said after making the decision to augment McKay's duties. The Falcons also are conducting a coaching search to replace Bobby Petrino.

Blank said it would be ideal that the GM is hired first in order to have input on who is hired as head coach.

Tom Dimitroff, New England's director of college scouting, Kansas City's vice president of player personnel Bill Kuharich and San Diego assistant GM Buddy Nix, among others, could also be interviewed for the general manager post. ESPN.com reported the Falcons will also interview Packers personnel analyst to the general manager John Schneider for their GM post.

Blank and McKay will interview Dallas assistants Jason Garrett and Tony Sparano Friday for Atlanta's head coaching vacancy, according to the Dallas Morning News. Baltimore defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and San Francisco assistant head coach Mike Singletary are expected be contacted by Atlanta about the head-coaching job.

Falcons offensive coordinator Hue Jackson could also be considered to receive an interview.

Interesting that Billick isn't on that list, but they might be behind on updating their site.

 

[PatrickT]

UPDATED: 1/4 9:23

If for no other purpose than my own entertainment, I'm going to try to keep a tally of who the Falcons are talking to and what my opinion of them is (if I know enough to have one). GM candidates are much harder to evaluate as a fan, it's really hard to say who's doing what in a front office. The * means that this is just AJC or my own speculation, there's no official word that they are going to talk to that person.

Potential GMs to be interviewed:

Reggie McKenzie, GB Dir of Player Personell - Wed 1/2

Nice looking resume, seems like a solid candidate. Being black is a bonus, especially in Atlanta.

*Buddy Nix, SD assistant GM

I like the idea of an assistant GM taking the next step, but who really knows what some of these titles mean.

*Tom Dimitroff, NE director of college scouting

His resume says New England. That's worth a look right there.

*Bill Kuharich, KC vp of player personnel

Don't know anything, but KC doesn't seem to be a hot bed of talent at the moment.

John Schneider, GB personnel analyst to the general manager - Wed. 1/2

Hard to say, obviously bringing in good personell to GB.

Chris Polian, IND VP Football Ops. Thu 1/3

According to Schefter

Tom Heckert, PHI GM

On Blank's radar, according to Shefter.

Head Coaches to be interviewed:

*Marty Schottenheimer

My personal choice at the moment. Steady, proven winner, despite playoff woes, would bring instant stability and credibility to the franchise.

Jim Caldwell, IND Asst HC, QBs - Thu 1/3

High praise from Manning, specifically saying Atlanta would be wise to hire him. Was apparently on the short list last year, prev relationship with McKay from TB. Manning's stamp of approval elevates him, IMO.

*Rex Ryan, BAL DC

If this is the guy who built that D in BAL, hard to say no to that. But a great coord does not always make a great HC. Excellent pedigree, tho, and certainly should be interviewed.

Jim Schwartz, TEN DC Week of Jan 7

Per Mort, He'll interview next week. He's also being mentioned for the Baltimore job. 7 seasons as a successful DC learning from Fisher. Sounds promising to me.

*Mike Singletary SF assistant HC

Popular choice in Atlanta. Great motivator, black, considered to be ready and was on the short list last year. In fact, it's rumoured that this is who Blank wanted, but McKay convinced him to go with Petrino. I'm not 100% sold on him yet, I'd like him to have more experience coaching a winner.

*Mike Zimmer, ATL DC

Considered a strong HC candidate last year, certainly has potential.

Jason Garrett, DAL OC - Fri 1/4

Considered a strong candidate by most, but he's had 1 year as an OC, I think I'd want a little more seasoning on my coach.

*Brian Billick, BAL HC

I know about what's happened with Baltimore, but I still think we could do a lot worse than Billick. Still not even speculation in Atlanta papers that the Falcons will talk with him.

*Hue Jackson, ATL OC

Definitely a possibility, he should be interviewed.

Tony Sparano, DAL OL coach - Fri 1/4

I don't know diddly-poo about this guy. EDIT: Sparano Bio. He used to call the plays under Parcells, so he's had bigger duties than just OL.

*Mike Smith, JAX DC

I don't know diddly-poo about this guy either. EDIT: BIO on Mike Smith. I like the resume.

Josh McDaniels, NE OC

Boston Globe reports Atlanta has asked for permission. The man behind the curtain? At the very least, he brings the smell of winning with him.

*Cam Cameron, MIA, HC

Did he really get a fair shot there? Maybe this was just the year of seasoning he needed to learn what not to do.

*Mike Martz, DET, OC

DO NOT WANT!

 

[zamboni]

Good stuff, Patrick. Thanks for the updates.

 

[PatrickT]

All of a sudden there's a plethora of coaches. Added Martz and Cameron

 

[Fiddles]

UPDATED: 1/4 9:23

Jim Caldwell, IND Asst HC, QBs - Thu 1/3

High praise from Manning, specifically saying Atlanta would be wise to hire him. Was apparently on the short list last year, prev relationship with McKay from TB. Manning's stamp of approval elevates him, IMO.

Said Colts quarterback Peyton Manning on Caldwell: "Jim would be an outstanding selection if Atlanta were to choose him as their head coach, or any other team that may. He's been instrumental in what we've done around here offensively. Certainly he's helped me and my play, but what he's done for our offense, what he does week-to-week behind the scenes that nobody's going to hear about unless I'm telling you right now, what he does to help our offense. I don't think we'd be able to do some of the things we do offensively as far as our execution, our preparation without Jim Caldwell."Atlanta would be wise to hire him, in my opinion."

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

On Buddy Nix:

He came over to the Chargers from the Bills with John Butler and AJ Smith. He's been director of player personnel since 2001, and has also been assistant GM (and AJ's right-hand man) since Butler passed away in 2003.

He gives the best interviews ever. Too bad they're only once a year (on draft day). He speaks with a deep southern accent and lots of fun colloquialisms. (Marcus McNeill is a "big ole boy," etc.)

You can see him discussing Eric Weddle here.

As a scout, he emphasizes football skills and character over raw athleticism (although he appreciates athleticism when he sees it -- e.g., Antonio Cromartie).

I have no idea if he'd be able to handle the non-scouting aspects of being a GM -- contract negotiations, etc. I don't think he's been much involved in those aspects with the Chargers. He's mostly evaluated player talent, but he's done a great job with that.

 

[PatrickT]

Nice stuff, thanks!

 

[PatrickT]

Added Jim Schwartz, TEN DC.

 

[PatrickT]

1/5 updates in Blue

If for no other purpose than my own entertainment, I'm going to try to keep a tally of who the Falcons are talking to and what my opinion of them is (if I know enough to have one). GM candidates are much harder to evaluate as a fan, it's really hard to say who's doing what in a front office. The * means that this is just AJC or my own speculation, there's no official word that they are going to talk to that person.

Potential GMs to be interviewed:

Tom Heckert, PHI GM Mon 1/7

On Blank's radar, according to Shefter. Being reported now by Schefter that Heckert has quite a bit of interest in going to Atlanta. Based on the Eagles success over several years, seems an ideal candidate. Heckert is actually flying to Atlanta for the interview, so the interest seems genuine. Bonus: Philly has ended the last two Atlanta playoff runs, so poking them in the eye would be kinda ok.

Reggie McKenzie, GB Dir of Player Personell - Wed 1/2

Nice looking resume, seems like a solid candidate. Being black is a bonus, especially in Atlanta.

*Buddy Nix, SD assistant GM

I like the idea of an assistant GM taking the next step, but who really knows what some of these titles mean.

*Tom Dimitroff, NE director of college scouting

His resume says New England. That's worth a look right there.

*Bill Kuharich, KC vp of player personnel

Don't know anything, but KC doesn't seem to be a hot bed of talent at the moment.

John Schneider, GB personnel analyst to the general manager - Wed. 1/2

Hard to say, obviously bringing in good personell to GB.

Chris Polian, IND VP Football Ops. Thu 1/3

Declined to interview for position.

Head Coaches to be interviewed:

*Marty Schottenheimer

My personal choice at the moment. Steady, proven winner, despite playoff woes, would bring instant stability and credibility to the franchise. Claims he has not been contacted yet, and I haven't read anything different. How can we not be interested in this guy?

Jim Caldwell, IND Asst HC, QBs - Thu 1/3

High praise from Manning, specifically saying Atlanta would be wise to hire him. Was apparently on the short list last year, prev relationship with McKay from TB. Manning's stamp of approval elevates him, IMO.

Rex Ryan, BAL DC Mon 1/7

If this is the guy who built that D in BAL, hard to say no to that. But a great coord does not always make a great HC. Excellent pedigree, tho, and certainly should be interviewed.

Jim Schwartz, TEN DC Week of Jan 7

Per Mort, He'll interview next week. He's also being mentioned for the Baltimore job. 7 seasons as a successful DC learning from Fisher. Sounds promising to me.

*Mike Singletary SF assistant HC

Popular choice in Atlanta. Great motivator, black, considered to be ready and was on the short list last year. In fact, it's rumoured that this is who Blank wanted, but McKay convinced him to go with Petrino. I'm not 100% sold on him yet, I'd like him to have more experience coaching a winner.

Jason Garrett, DAL OC - Fri 1/4

Considered a strong candidate by most, but he's had 1 year as an OC, I think I'd want a little more seasoning on my coach.

*Brian Billick, BAL HC

I know about what's happened with Baltimore, but I still think we could do a lot worse than Billick. Still not even speculation in Atlanta papers that the Falcons will talk with him.

Tony Sparano, DAL OL coach - Fri 1/4

I don't know diddly-poo about this guy. EDIT: Sparano Bio. He used to call the plays under Parcells, so he's had bigger duties than just OL.

*Mike Smith, JAX DC

I don't know diddly-poo about this guy either. EDIT: BIO on Mike Smith. I like the resume.

*Cam Cameron, MIA, HC

Did he really get a fair shot there? Maybe this was just the year of seasoning he needed to learn what not to do.

*Mike Martz, DET, OC

DO NOT WANT!

Josh McDaniels, NE OC

Declined to interview for either Atlanta of Baltimore.

Boston Globe reports Atlanta has asked for permission. The man behind the curtain? At the very least, he brings the smell of winning with him.

Mike Zimmer, ATL DC

Considered a strong HC candidate last year, certainly has potential.

Has been told he will not be considered for HC position. I don't get it, I think he should have been. Has been given permission to interview for CIN DC position

Hue Jackson, ATL OC

Definitely a possibility, he should be interviewed.

Has been told he will not be considered for HC position. I don't get it, I think he should have been.

 

[PatrickT]

Zimmer and Jackson told they won't be considered. Zimmer to interview for Cincy DC position.

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