Who Actually Cares About Mike Vick Anymore?

Michael Vick seems to be a popular thing to write on so I guess it is my turn.

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think Michael Vick has stolen enough of the spotlight in the media. 

It seems every time I check an NFL site, listen to sports radio, or flip on NFL Live, Vick is dominating the conversation.  It makes me wonder; does anybody actually care at this point?

The general attitude of fans in the Atlanta area is optimism for the Falcons 2009 season.  Last year saw huge improvements on the offensive side of the ball as Michael Turner and Matt Ryan led the team to the playoffs.  The last thing that people want is to hear about the man who sent the franchise down the tank.

A lot has been made of Vick’s release from prison and the speculation of when he will be reinstated.  I find it humorous how much attention the man has gotten despite the fact he has not actually done anything newsworthy.

At this point, the Vick story seems to be nothing but a tribute to the media’s ability to take a negative story and shine the spotlight on it. 

In my perfect world, I would love to see sports news, radio, newspapers, TV, and everything else to just lay off the Vick story until there’s at least something to talk about.  I’ll be watching anxiously to see what he is like when he actually cracks an NFL field but until then, I simply don’t care.

I may be alone on this opinion.  I know he is getting a lot of attention, but I wonder how many other people are sick of it?  I’m curious, what would you rather hear about in NFL news?  Vick?  Rookie draft picks?  Predictions?  More Brett Favre?

Let me know your opinions.  I personally would be happy if I never had to watch another fly over of his house, see him walking out of prison again, or see his NFL statistics for the 1000th time.

Falcons Divisional Matchups – Carolina Panthers

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The Panthers and Falcons finished first and second in the NFC South last year and are both candidates for the 2009 title. The two teams match up very well against each other and have taken three games apiece from the last six meetings.

One of the most intriguing factors about the Falcons vs. Panthers is how similar the teams are statistically. The following table reflects this fact:

OFFENSE
                       Points/Game             Pass Yards/Game      Rushing Yards/Game
Carolina           25.9                         197.4                       152.3
Atlanta             24.4                         208.5                       152.7

DEFENSE
                   Points/Game             Pass Yards/Game      Rushing Yards/Game
Carolina          20.6                          211.7                     119.5
Atlanta            20.3                          220.4                     127.5

Because the teams were so close in their production in 2008, an important factor is the new additions from the offseason and the possible impact those players will have. The difference-maker in these games could be a standout rookie or new addition to a team who pushes them to the next level.

 

Falcons Defense vs. Panthers Offense

One of the keys for the Falcons defense will be to keep Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme out of the end zone. In 2008, Carolina was 10-1 when Delhomme threw for a touchdown and 4-0 when he scored multiple times in a game.

The Carolina receivers will also be a challenge for the Falcons as Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad are both standout players. The receiving corps is not very deep—Smith and Muhammad combined for more than 71 percent of the receiving yards for the team. 

The Falcons had trouble holding both receivers in check last year as they gave up 147 yards to Muhammad in the first meeting and 168 yards to Smith in the second game.

The Panthers rushing attack is also a threat to the Falcons as Carolina ranked third in rushing last year. The deadly duo of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart contributed towards 2,437 yards and 30 touchdowns on the ground for the Panthers in 2008.

Carolina has a very balanced attack that can beat you either through the air or with the run. With a lot of changes on defense, the Falcons have the potential to build and improve upon last year’s mediocre unit. This matchup is one that could make rookies Peria Jerry or William Moore the difference maker against a strong Panthers offense.

 

Falcons Offense vs. Panthers Defense

In the two meetings last year between the Panthers and Falcons, Atlanta showed up with very different offensive units. In the first game the Falcons had only 268 yards of offense. The second game saw Matt Ryan pass for 259 yards while the Falcons rushing attack went for 133 yards and four Michael Turner touchdowns.

One of the keys to beating the Carolina defense is to run the ball. Overall the team gave up 119.5 yards rushing per game, but in the four losses opponents ran for an average of 173.8 yards. As the Falcons build off the solid performance of Turner in 2008, look for them to try to exploit Carolina’s run defense in this matchup. 

Atlanta’s passing attack will also be very dangerous against the Panthers secondary.  Matt Ryan will have a new target in Tony Gonzalez, who should open up the possibility to move the ball through the air. The receivers are a lot more experienced and the depth of the Falcons offense gives them an advantage. If the Panthers do not tighten up their pass defense, Atlanta could have a big day on offense.

 

Special Teams

Another similarity between these two franchises is the kicking game. Both teams have highly efficient veteran kickers; the Falcons with Jason Elam and the Panthers with John Kasay. If the meeting comes down to a last-minute field goal, both teams have a kicker who can handle the pressure and win the game.

The special teams are solid for both organizations, but neither team has a standout return man or a particularly good coverage unit. Unless either side makes a big mistake, don’t expect the special teams to make a big difference.

 

Prediction

Expect the matchup between the Panthers and Falcons to be very close. Both teams have a strong offense and have gotten quicker and younger on defense. Look for these rivals to split the season series as neither team has a distinct advantage.

The key for the Falcons on offense will be to run the ball effectively getting a lot of yards out of Turner. On defense, the Falcons need to contain both Muhammad and Smith and slow down the passing offense of the Panthers. If Atlanta finds a way to win both games against Carolina, they will be in a great position to win the NFC South.  

 

Ten Questions for Mike Smith

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Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith had an incredible first year with the team as he led them to an 11-5 record and received the NFL Coach of the Year Award.  His work ethic and determination were an example to the rest of the coaching staff and to the players as the Falcons made a quick turnaround from the wretched 2007 season.

 

Ten Questions for Mike Smith

1. In 2008, you walked into a tough situation, taking over a coaching job that many said nobody wanted.  What was the biggest challenge for you as you assumed that role for the first time with a team as bad as the Falcons were in 2007?

2. Last year, Matt Ryan surprised a lot of people with his maturity, leadership, and physical skills as he took home Rookie of the Year award honors.  What steps are you looking for him to take in 2009 as he continues his personal development into a franchise quarterback?

3. Michael Turner turned out to be one of the big stories in the NFL with his breakout year in 2008 as a starter with the Falcons. His play exceeded the expectations  of people, as he rushed for nearly 1,700 yards and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl.

What were your realistic expectations for him last year and what are you looking for out of him in the future?

4. The addition of Tony Gonzalez has a lot of fans in Atlanta very excited.  What does he bring to the team both on and off the field, and how will the offense change with him as a part of it?

5. The Falcons have made some big changes on defense this offseason with Keith Brooking leaving and the addition of Mike Peterson. The team has also drafted seven defensive players.  How will the team improve in 2009 from those additions and what particular unit will change the most from 2008?

6. The big additions for the Falcons through the draft are defensive end Peria Jerry, safety William Moore, and cornerback Christopher Owens. Who in this group is ready to contribute in 2009 and what do they bring to the team?

7. While as a coach I am sure you have a lot of confidence in your team and their ability to perform. What one part of the team are you most concerned about or working the hardest to improve?

8. One of the areas that the Falcons need improvement on is their pass defense as they ranked 21st in yards allowed.  As if it wasn’t tough enough to face division foes Jake Delhomme and Drew Brees, this year the Falcons get to see Tom Brady, Jake Cutler, Tony Romo, Eli Manning, and Donovan McNabb. 

How has the pass defense improved from last year, and how will the team hold up against the quality quarterbacks they have to face?

9. Looking at the schedule, the Falcons have a much harder road ahead of them in comparison to last year’s schedule.  What games this year jump out to you either as challenges, interesting matchups, or just a game that you are looking forward to?

10. Last year, the NFC South had more wins as a division than any other in the NFL.  As you look around in this very tough division, what team do you view as the biggest obstacle in the Falcons hunt for an NFC South title?

 

Ten Questions For Matt Ryan

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan shocked the world last year with his performance as he led the team to an 11-5 record. 

Statistically, Ryan was solid as he passed for 3,440 yards with a 61.1 completion percentage and 16 touchdowns.  He matured into a leader on the team and played his way to rookie of the year honors.

 

Ten Questions For Matt Ryan

1. Growing up, as an aspiring NFL quarterback, who did you imitate or idolize and who would you say your playing style and talent is most like?

2. What was the biggest challenge for you in your rookie year as you transitioned from the college game to the professional level?

3. There has been a lot of talk about the two young quarterbacks Mathew Stafford and Mark Sanchez and the impact they will have in 2009.  What advice would you give to them as they start to lead an NFL franchise?

4. As you experienced the gauntlet of an NFL season for the first time last year, was there a particular coach or teammate who mentored you and helped you acclimate to the system?

5. Last year you entered a great situation as a rookie quarterback because you had a solid offensive line, a Pro Bowl running back, and a Pro Bowl wide receiver.  What piece of the offense was the biggest help to you?

6. One of the fears that fans in Atlanta have is that last year was a fluke and you will not be able to live up to expectations in 2009.  What steps are being taken that will allow you to improve off of your early success and avoid the sophomore slump?

7. This year in the draft, the Falcons used their first six picks on the defensive side of the ball.  What was your reaction to so much focus being on the defense and would you rather see more pieces added to the offense?

8. One of the biggest moves this offseason for the Falcons was the addition of Tony Gonzalez from Kansas City.  How will he improve the team as a whole and what does he bring to the table that is an asset to your play?

9. As you look around the NFC South at the Panthers, Saints, and Bucs, which team to do you view as the biggest threat to the Falcons winning the division and which defense is the toughest opponent for you?

10. The Falcons this year have made it a goal to win the NFC South and advance in the playoffs.  Aside from the team goals, what personal goals have you set for yourself in 2009 that you want to achieve?

NFC South: Atlanta Falcons Competition in the Hunt for a Division Title

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The 2008 season marked an impressive year for the Falcons, Panthers, Saints, and Bucs. Overshadowed by other traditional power divisions, the NFC South was arguably the best division in football. 

All four teams posted records at or above .500 as the NFC South won more games than any other division in the NFL. Each team had more points for than against during the season, a feat no other division can claim. 

The most impressive facet to the teams was their offenses. Their combined scoring ranked significantly higher than all other divisions. The NFC South dominated the traditional power divisions by scoring 1,629 points total. The highly regarded offenses of the NFC East only scored 1,470 points, AFC East 1,496, and the AFC South only 1,420 points.

Looking ahead to 2009, the Atlanta Falcons are focused on taking the division title. Which teams will be a potential threat to that goal, and what are the expectations of the other teams inside the NFC South?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs put up impressive numbers in 2008, winning their first six home games on their way to a 9-3 start. Their defense was the key to their early success as they ranked 10th in points allowed. Opponents struggled against them through the air giving the Bucs the fourth best passing defense in the NFL.

The biggest struggle for the Bucs last year was their ability to win down the stretch.  The team missed the playoffs after loosing their last four games of the season.  In that span they gave up over 30 points per game.

The biggest questions for Tampa Bay this year are on the offensive side of the ball. With a new coach and quarterback coming into the picture there are a lot of question marks.  Can the team find a starting QB? Will the defense be enough to help out the struggling offense?

Look for the Bucs to take a step back in 2009, as they rebuild under new head coach Raheem Morris.

New Orleans Saints

Although the Saints rounded out the bottom of the division last year, they posted insane numbers on offense. They lead the league in points per game, yards per game, and passing yards per game. So how did that prolific offense only amount to an 8-8 record?

Their 27th ranked defense held them back, as they gave up 24.6 points per game. Another interesting statistic about the Saints defense was that they were one of only four NFL teams to not score a defensive touchdown last year.

The team should improve on the defensive side of the ball in 2009, as they drafted defensive players with their first three picks. If the Saints are able to stop opponents, then they have potential to take the division for the third time since 2000.

Carolina Panthers

In 2008 the Panthers were the most complete team in the division, ranking seventh in total offense and 12th in defense. Their 12-4 record was driven by their undefeated home schedule, with all four losses coming on the road.

The key to the Panthers winning is the performance of Jake Delhomme. The quarterback threw for 15 touchdowns, but only had one touchdown in all four losses combined. He needs to play well in 2009 to give the Panthers a chance to win the division.

The defense also needs to step up for the Panthers to improve in the upcoming season. While they averaged 20.6 points per game allowed, the unit gave up 31.5 points per game in the four losses. 

More specifically, the Panthers need to slow down opponents through the air, as they leaked out over 210 passing yards per game. This could be their biggest weakness, as they have not made any significant moves towards improving their secondary in the offseason. 

Summary

We know that the three main contenders for the division will be good.  The offenses of Atlanta, Carolina, and New Orleans will put on a show with all three quarterbacks ranking in the top 15 in passing yards in 2009.

The biggest question mark for all three teams is whether or not their defenses will improve in the upcoming year. New Orleans and Carolina have not put their focus on making big changes, but Atlanta has shown their commitment to build their defense by drafting seven defensive players.  (For more on the Falcons Defense see http://bleacherreport.com/articles/170085-2009-atlanta-falcons-defensive-spotlight)

According to Espn.com, the May power rankings have the Panthers at 10, Falcons at 11, Saints at 16, and Bucs at 27. The division is wide open, but the Falcons and Panthers are the very early favorites. 

Falcons fans should be excited about the possibility of winning the NFC South. Their ownership has been the most active of any team in improving both sides of the ball through the draft and free agency. 

Even though the schedule will be tougher in 2009, the talent of the Falcons team will improve from the previous season. Their expectations of winning the division are realistic. Expect the Falcons to be in the hunt for the playoffs in December as head coach Mike Smith’s team is poised to take home the NFC title. 

 

Falcons Coaching Staff: The Faces under the Headsets

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After the disastrous 2007 season, the Atlanta Falcons cleaned house and started over with a new general manager and head coach.  The additions were quick payoffs, as the Falcons climbed from 4-12 in 2007 to an 11-5 record in 2008 with a playoff berth. 

Arthur Blank, Owner and CEO, holds a high standard for his franchise, and showed it when he rebuilt after the fallout left from Mike Vick and Bobby Petrino.  Blank has grown to realize the importance of quality as a key element in his responsibilities to the coaches, players, and fans.  He has shown this commitment by building the team around the right personnel, starting from the top.

One of the biggest acquisitions for the Falcons since 2007 was the hiring of general manager Thomas Dimitroff from New England.  In his time with the Patriots, Dimitroff was influenced by Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli and their reputation for putting together all the right pieces for a successful franchise. 

One element that Dimitroff brings to the Falcons is the ability to recognize the needs of a team and find players that not only fit that void but also are compatible to the coaching system.  This offseason Dimitroff made two major acquisitions outside of the draft: linebacker Mike Peterson and tight end Tony Gonzalez.  Both men are great fits at their respective positions, and are ready to step into the Falcons system and contribute.

This year, Dimitroff made an effort to build through the draft, using the first five selections on defense players.  He saw the needs for the Falcons as the team lacked the ability to shut down opponents, ranking 24th in yards allowed per game.  Key additions on the D-line and secondary will solidify the Falcons as they aim to be a stronger team on both sides of the ball.

Mike Smith enters 2009 as his second season as a head coach in the NFL.  He has an impressive résumé as he has been a part of some of the best defensive teams in the league.  In 2000, he was a part of the coaching staff in Baltimore when the Ravens won the Super Bowl.  He then worked under Jack Del Rio in Jacksonville as the defensive coordinator, leading the team to the second best defense in 2006.

Smith held true to his reputation of a strong work ethic earning the 2008 NFL Coach of the Year Award.  His strong character and hard work ethic define his ability to build the Falcons into a dominant team.

A vital part of the Falcons defense is coordinator Brian VanGorder.  He has experience in winning programs with time in Jacksonville and also college experience with the Georgia Southern Eagles and University of Georgia Bulldogs.  While at UGA, VanGorder received the NCAA Assistant Coach of the Year Award as the Bulldogs ranked third in defense in the nation.

Mike Mularkey calls the plays on offense for the Falcons and brings experience and leadership to the team.  After a successful career playing tight end for the Minnesota Vikings, Mularkey coached for several years at Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh.  After a brief head coaching job with the Bills, he worked with the Miami Dolphins until being promoted to offensive coordinator of the Falcons in 2008. 

In his first year with the team, Mularkey turned heads by bringing the fourth worst franchise on offense to a top ten team in 2008.  The upcoming season will be exciting to watch as the team is loaded on offensive and comes back with more experience and chemistry.

Although there have been many changes to the Falcons organization in the last two years, the new-look coaching staff is a talented and hard working group of leaders.  Arthur Blank and Thomas Dimitroff have made the right moves to bring in individuals who are committed to making the Falcons a premier team in the NFL. 

The 2009 season will be a test for them as they look to build off their early success.  Expect the Falcons to be a focused team on and off the field as Mike Smith guides the team to what will hopefully be a special season for the team. 

 

Falcons Offense: Top Five Players of 2008

The 2008 Falcons team featured an offense built around several new faces to the team. This new look team broke the top ten in scoring, yards, rushing yards, and first downs; building one of the elite offensive threats in the league.

Much of this success is credited to specific players who stepped into their roles and featured leadership and productivity at their position. Another element that was important for the team was consistency, as the team laid the groundwork for the upcoming Falcons teams.

The following players are the top five performers for the team in 2008 based on their statistics, consistency, and leadership both on and off the field.

Atlanta Falcons 2009 Preview—Offense

2008 saw a huge step forward for the Falcons offense mainly through the rushing attack of Michael “Burner” Turner and Rookie of the Year “Matty Ice” Ryan.  The fans in Atlanta were blown away by the productivity as the team bounced from the fourth worst offense in the league to the tenth best in only one year.  As the team enters their second year under head coach Mike Smith, they look to build off their success towards becoming a premier threat on offense in the NFC.

The biggest potential setback for the 2009 Falcons is the offensive line.  They are strong in the starting positions with left tackle Sam Baker and right tackle Tyson Clabo anchoring the line.  Guards Blalock and Dahl and center McClure are solid players who were key factors to the Falcons posting the league’s second best rushing attack in 2008. 

The concerns for the line lie in the depth chart.  After the starting five, the quality of play drops off significantly which could be big problems for the rushing game and also the protection of Matt Ryan.  Barring a long-term injury from one of the starters, the O-line should provide the solid core needed to build the rest of the team around but be prepared for some instability in the second string players. 

In the backfield, the Falcons are as solid as they come.  Last year’s free agent acquisition Michael Turner has become a sensation; able to bruise through the line for the tough yards while still possessing the speed for the breakaway run.  They have no problems with depth either with a consistent number two man in Jerious Norwood.  He is a player who would be a starter on most teams in the league and is able to come in and perform in any situation. 

Statistically, Turner is the most important facet of the offense determining the outcome of the game.  In 2008 wins Turner averaged 127.3 yards per game but only 56.7 in losses.  His consistency is important not only for the rushing attack.  His yards are also needed to open up the defense for Ryan to work his magic through the air. 

Matt Ryan posted insane numbers for a rookie last year with his 3,440 yards and 16 touchdowns.  What was also impressive was his accuracy with a 61.1% completion rate and only 11 interceptions.  Ryan exceeded all expectations in 2008 both on and off the field; posting veteran numbers and also becoming a vocal leader of the team.  With the early success, there is a lot of pressure on the young man to perform at a high level in 2009.  Ryan is up for the challenge through and has all the potential needed to continue growing into his role as the general of the team. 

One of the strong units for the Falcons team is their receiving corps.  They are led by Roddy White who was fourth best in the league with 1,382 receiving yards.  He averaged 86.4 yards per game and crossed the century mark in seven different games.  The roster at receiver is deep too as Michael Jenkins, Brian Finneran, and Harry Douglas are all legitimate receivers capable of making the big play.

Although the Falcons did not draft an offensive player until fifth round there was big news coming out of free agency in the offseason; the acquisition of veteran tight end Tony Gonzalez from Kansas City.  Gonzalez has been the league’s most consistent tight end for the past decade and should fill the void left when Algae Crumpler moved to the Titans last year.  With this new addition for the Falcons, they not only acquire needed veteran leadership but also a solid blocking and receiving tight end. 

One major strength for the team should be a high productivity in the red zone.  Opposing defenses will have trouble stopping the multidimensional attack of the Falcons.  Teams will be forced do defend the outside threat of a fade or quick slant to Roddy White while Tony Gonzalez will be patrolling the middle of the end zone.  In the backfield, Turner is a danger both to pound the inside run or bounce it outside to the corner.  Matt Ryan will have plenty of options to help him lead the team to a high touchdown percentage inside the red zone. 

Fans should be excited about the balanced attack on offense from the Falcons in 2009.  If the offensive line can stay healthy then the team has potential to be very prolific.  Turner will try to build off his breakout year and Ryan will be pushing himself to assume the role of one of the league’s top quarterbacks.  The Falcons will likely improve in 2009 on the offensive side of the ball as players become more experienced individually and team unites as a whole.

 

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