SB Nation - Mike Peterson

New York Jets Run Offense vs. Atlanta Falcons Run Defense

John B — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 16:31:32 -0000

More photos » by Brian Blanco - AP

Whether or not the weather is poor, we will see a heavy dose of Thomas Jones against a below average run defense. Atlanta is giving up 117.8 per game on the ground and a 4.2 average. The Falcons are undersized on the defensive line aside from end Jamaal Anderson, primarily a run defender. Their tackles, Thomas Johnson and Jonathan Babineaux weigh in at 304 and 296 respectively. We know what John Abraham is, mainly an upfield pass rusher, although he hasn't been terrible against the run this year. D'Brickashaw Ferguson is a tough matchup for him though. He can match Abe's athelticism.

I like the interior line's chances against the tackles. Nick Mangold, Alan Faneca, and Brandon Moore should be able to get a good push. They will have to. Middle linebacker Curtis Lofton has been very strong in run support with 118 tackles. The outside backers, Stephen Nicholas and Mike Peterson are less accomplished run defenders. If the Jets control the point of attack, they will have to work in traffic. New York will have the Falcons right where they want them.

The Jets will probably have to operate with old friend Erik Coleman spending a lot of time in the box. Coleman has 93 tackles this year. He's the ultimate average player. He never really does much to stick out good or bad. Again, the offensive line winning battles up front and hitting the second level will be key here. If Coleman has to get off blocks, it could spring Thomas Jones for some big carries.

I think Thomas Jones won't get many breaks in this one. It doesn't seem like the coaching staff has a ton of faith in Shonn Greene after his third fumble last week. The signing of Chauncey Washington is an indication of this. He could have a big day and would be a good play in fantasy.

New York Jets Pass Offense vs. Atlanta Falcons Pass Defense

John B — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 13:54:27 -0000

More photos » by Peter Morgan - AP

Browse more photos »

Can Mark Sanchez play in bad weather? The rookie had some struggles earlier in the year in less than optimal conditions against the Titans and Bills. It's going to be a cold day at the Meadowlands, and Sanchez will be nursing a bad knee. New York's Playoff hopes depend on his ability to block out the adversity.

He should have some help. Atlanta does not have a great secondary. They give up 257.8 per contest through the air. Their starting secondary of Chris Houston, Chris Owens, Erik Coleman, and Thomas DeCoud is no better than average. Houston sat out last week and is doubtful this week. Brent Grimes will start in his place. This is a week where both Braylon Edwards and Jerricho Cotchery should have advantages in their matchups.

None of the linebackers are great in pass coverage either. Curtis Lofton, Stephen Nicholas, and Mike Peterson are all middle of the pack in pass coverage. Dustin Keller's athelticism should give him an edge here.

Up front, the Falcons are a little banged up. Old friend John Abraham, Jonathan Babineaux, and Jamaal Anderson all battled injuries in practice this week, but there isn't any indication they will sit. Abraham is the most explosive pass rusher the Falcons have. His 3.5 sacks belie his ability to win matchups. Still, you have to feel confident about D'Brickashaw Ferguson's ability to contain him the way Brick is playing. Babineaux has 5 sacks. So does Kroy Biermann, who should replace Anderson on obvious pass downs. Anderson is better against the run than getting to the quarterback. Thomas Johnson, Atlanta's other tackle, isn't much of a pass rusher.

Watch out of Nicholas on blitzes from outside linebacker. He has 3 sacks and has done a good job winning his matchups.

Overall, though, this has the makings of a nice day for Sanchez if he can handle the elements.

First Half Grades and Awards

Jonathan Loesche — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:49:09 -0000

More photos » by Phil Coale - AP

about 1 month ago: Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew runs for a third-quarter touchdown during an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, in Jacksonville, Fla. Jacksonville won 24-21.(AP Photo/Phil Coale)

Browse more photos »

The Jaguars have completed the first half of their schedule and the results are a resounding...........who knows. This team has had it's share of ups and downs, though it has been entertaining the entire time. This team is in rebuilding, but that doesn't mean it has it's strengths and weaklinks.

Passing Offense: B-

The key here has been the emergence of the wide receiving corp. The Jaguars no longer have a CFL level wide receiving corp and it shows. Mike Sims-Walker has been showing why the Jaguars have been so patient with his injuries, while Torry Holt has been the best free agent pick up since Mike Peterson.David Garrard has been up and down, though that has as much to do with the play of the offensive line as himself.

First round pick Eugene Monroe is seemingly finally entrenched at the left tackle spot. As long as the coaching staff doesn't have anymore divine revelations to start Tra Thomas, I don't see Monroe leaving that spot for the next ten years. Fourth round pick Mike Thomas has certainly been the surprise of the draft class for me. He has been a nice spark plug for the offense.

Rushing Offense:A-

Maurice Jones-Drew is a feature back, enough said. MJD is on pace for a 1,500 yard 22 touchdown season that would eclipse anything Fred Taylor did statistically, which is insane. However, as Jeff Lageman mentioned, Fred was always at his best during the back half of the schedule. Will we say the same about Jones-Drew?

Rashad Jennings has been getting more action as the season has gone on, and hopefully he'll get to be a regular spell back by the end of the year. I know MJD is a monster, but why don't we give the ball to Greg Jones more in short yard situations, if for no other reason then that's one less hit MJD needs to take.

Run blocking has always been the offensive line's strength and it continues to be. 2nd round pick Eben Britton has been excellent blocking the run this season, though he's still a work in progress with pass protection. Also, the interior of the offensive line is starting to show it's age. Hopefully they'll be able to hang on for another year or two because there are only project players to be found if you want interior O-lineman in this draft.

Passing Defense:D

Well, at least the unit isn't on pace to set the record for fewest sacks in the NFL. However, this is still the weak link on the team, as evidenced by the 54 yard prayer that was given up for a touchdown that sparked the Chiefs psuedo-rally. The pass rush is still non-existent for the most part. Unless the Chiefs game was a preview of things to come, the Jaguars will still be looking for that pass rusher. Also, Reggie Nelson is still a liability. While he managed to figure out he was playing TACKLE football, I would still take a "Hole in Zone" over trusting him to make the right read.

On the other hand, Derek Cox has been progressing nicely and looks to be a cornerstone of the team for the next decade. I'm not going to blast Sean Considine and Brian Russell too much as those guys really should be special teams guys.

Rushing Defense: C+

The Jaguars rush defense has been good statistically primarily because team's realized that throwing the ball was far more effective. However, the last two weeks have been a Jekyll and Hyde show for the team. Chris Johnson had a career day in Nashville, while they buckled down against the Chiefs to only allow 60 yards rushing.

Terrance Knighton has been playing the best of the rookies and has been a true bright spot for the season. John Henderson has revived his career and is playing his best ball since 2005. Also, if this team is finally going back to the 4-3, then we'll see our linebackers playing to their strengths again.

(I'm going to save comment on the coaching for another article.)

First Half MVP: Maurice Jones-Drew

Did you think I would pick anyone else?

First Half LVP (Least Valuable Player): Reggie Nelson

Nelson is proudly continuing in the tradition of other Shack Harris first round picks, by not progressing or living up to their potential. It seems everytime the defense gives a big play over the top you can see that Reggie is out of position somewhere.

Best Moment: Week 4 vs Tennessee

Easily the best performance from all sides of the ball since 2007.

Worst Moment: Week 8 at Tennessee

I have to agree with Vic on this one. The playoffs were on the line and despite being thoroughly outplayed, it seemed MJD had delivered a knockout blow with his second long touchdown to tie the game at 13-13. Then, the extra point was blocked and the team collapsed.

Best Rookie: Terrance "Pot Roast" Knighton

Not only has he played the best of the rookies, his arrivial has resparked John Henderson.

Most Pleasant Surprise: The Jaguars no longer having a CFL level wide receiving unit

The Jaguars top three wide receivers in 2008, Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, and Jerry Porter are out of football now. Would anyone want to bet Mike Sims-Walker, Torry Holt, and Mike Thomas would be free agents for long if the Jaguars cut them tomorrow?

One thing I want to see over the next eight games: Close losses

You're probably wondering what I mean by that, but this team is going to lose a few more games this year, that is certain. However, the Jaguars have lost by an average of 18 points this season. I'm not asking this team to go in and beat New England at home in December. I would ask you make it worth my while to tune in.

-Jonathan Loesche

Poll

The team MVP is

Maurice Jones-Drew

373 votes

David Garrard

10 votes

Mike Sims-Walker

56 votes

Torry Holt

3 votes

Terrance Knighton

14 votes

Other

4 votes

460 votes | Poll has closed

Falcons And Redskins Recap: Winning Is Always Easy

Dave the Falconer — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:00:49 -0000

by Erik S. Lesser - AP

Michael Turner high-kicked his way to victory Sunday. (AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser)

View full size photo »

This game was the polar opposite of last week's.

Against the Saints, we executed well all the way through and nearly won against a very tough team. In this one, we played poorly for long stretches and still found a way to win against the Redskins. The Falcons are maddeningly capable of switching back and forth between sheer brilliance and utter ineptitude, something that will hopefully disappear with time.

Still, the win is what's most important here, and the Falcons managed that 31-17. There were also quite a few encouraging bright spots this week, so it's not like there's any reason to be truly concerned here. I hope.

Follow me after the jump and we'll get to the real meat n' potatoes of this post.

HIGHLIGHTS

Michael Turner is awesome. My greatest fear right now is that he's going to be running, the camera's going to switch to the back of the end zone and he's going to keep running and come right through the television screen and punch me in the stomach. I'm sorry I doubted you! That 58 yard touchdown was beautiful!

I maintain that there was something not quite right with Turner earlier in the season, but whatever it was has vaporized like an ant under a death ray. Right now, I think the Panthers, who have the top-rated pass defense in the league, are going to have to worry about our good friend Touchdown Vampire.
Big ups to Tye Hill, who went from not playing at all to locking down the starting job in Atlanta in the span of two weeks. Hill's interception and 62-yard return for a touchdown clearly caught the attention of the coaching staff, as the AJC speculates he'll start again. He's got the physical skills to win the job and may just have developed in the system well enough to make this work. This comes at the expense of Brent Grimes, obviously, but I still think he'll do good things at the nickle.
Jason Elam's back! Yes!
Tony Gonzalez had a very underrated game. The Redskins blanket the tight end, but Gonzo still managed to pick up 40 yards and a touchdown against that suffocating coverage. He's simply the most reliable option in the passing game, though he's not blowing up like Roddy White is.
Speaking of blowing up, Jonathan Babineaux went off like ten tons of dynamite. Ten total tackles, two-and-a-half sacks and some generally rage-filled play went a long ways on Sunday. Teams with weak interior offensive linemen ought to be peeing their pants about now.
Props to Kroy Biermann and Chevis Jackson (?), who both managed to sack Jason Campbell in a hit parade which unfortunately knocked the young quarterback out of the game. Half props to John Abraham, who managed a half of a sack.
Eric Weems is the man. Still doing well in the return game, so he gets another gold star.

LOWLIGHTS

Matty Ice, appropriately enough, is not doing so hot right now. It's not so much the one interception as it is the handful of bad throws, the inability to find anyone open downfield and the happy feet. It's not anything I'm worried about long term—I mean, hell, I'm barely worried about it short term—but it's yet another reminder that he's human and needs time to grow as a quarterback. Let's all give him that time.
This was a tough secondary, which partly explains both Ryan's struggles and Roddy White's. I don't think the injury was affecting him so much as he wasn't open all that often. Wasn't much of a game for either of 'em, really.
Everyone has different feelings about Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling, but can we all agree that it would be nice to have them back? I have no problem with Aaron Stecker and Verron Haynes, but they're not getting the job done behind Turner.
As orang3b astutely noted, Mike Peterson was getting killed in coverage today. He wasn't alone, though, as the entire defense forgot how to tackle and cover anyone for long stretches. The Redskins' offense isn't exactly dynamic, especially with that O-line, so our inability to make things happen during the second half of the game was disappointing. Again, it comes down to simple consistency.

THE WRAPUP

Game MVP: I dare not incur the wrath of Michael Turner. Here's your MVP, sir!

Game Theme Song: It's been too long.

One Thing To Take Away: We're still very much in the thick of the wild card race. I'm pretty happy with that.

Next Week: Our damnable foes in Carolina, the Panthers, who as you know are represented by Cat Scratch Reader (bwao naw now). Be sure to visit 'em during the week.

Final Word: Win.

Falcons And 49ers Recap: The Win Is The Thing

Dave the Falconer — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:00:29 -0000

More photos » by Ben Margot - AP

The Three Amigos had a pretty nice day on Sunday, wouldn't you say? (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

Browse more photos »

Life, as it turns out, rarely lives up to your expectations. It's even rarer that it exceeds our expectations, however modest they may be, and so those moments should be treasured.

Ladies and gentlemen, you just witnessed one of those moments, albeit an extended one. For the unholy whupping the Atlanta Falcons laid on the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, with a line of Falcons bristling with weaponry, will rarely be equaled in our lifetimes. This team took my best guess at the outcome—a close win against a tough defensive team—and blew them out of the water like a depth charge hitting a school of fish. It was awesome.

This, coupled with a quality Baltimore Ravens team losing to the New England Patriots last week, has put that loss is in its proper perspective. The Saints are still about as scary a bogeyman as you could ask for, but we're suddenly 3-1, replete with offensive options and a gelling defense. At this point, it would be an upset if we didn't make a strong playoff push, never mind get rid of that giant monkey off of our collective backs.

There will be moments where anger and perhaps even sadness are called for this season, but I charge you with a simple task: Don't forget this. These moments, where a 35 point victory and a limitless horizon lie on either side of us, are precious few, and it would not do to waste them.

Follow me, my friends, as I head over the jump.

HIGHLIGHTS

You can't possibly go through this without mentioning Roddy White, so why not put him right up top? The wide receiver I fretted over was nowhere to be seen on Sunday. White blew through coverage frequently on his way to 210 yards on 8 catches, a staggering 30 yards per catch, and a pair of touchdowns. He also had a great heads up play when 'Dre Bly picked Matt Ryan, taking down the showboating defensive end and forcing a timely fumble. This was Roddy making up for three games worth of a slow start, and he certainly showed that he's a force to be reckoned with. Before his career is over, we'll have plenty of chances to marvel about seeing the greatest Falcons receiver of our collective lifetimes. At least, I hope so. Oh, and that 210 yards is an all-time record for this franchise, by the by.
Matt Ryan set his own record, tossing 329 yards and generally looking like his usual efficient self out there. The throws aren't perfect, as tloz noted, but time will continue to heal those minor abrasions. In general, he commanded the game, found the open receiver and even ran one in on an ill-advised play where he looked like he was traipsing to market for a loaf of bread. I'm continually amazed at how poised he is.
It helps your poise, of course, when your offensive line protects you like knights protect the Holy Grail. Not that Harvey Dahl would wear armor or be chivalrous, of course. It's just an analogy! Nonetheless, the team continued to provide one of the best pass protection schemes in the entire league, as Ryan has still only been sacked twice in four games. Any quarterback could look good with that time; Ryan looks great.
Speaking of lines, they did a nice job opening holes for Michael Turner. He responded by transforming, Transformers-style, from a struggling running back to a tank with a bulldozer attached to it. He looked strong and bowled his way to his best game in 2009, including three touchdowns. It was great to see him getting quality results again, especially against the Niners' vaunted front seven. Hopefully he'll carry that momentum into next week's game.
Great to see Jerious Norwood return and run well. Concussions are worrying injuries, but he looked returned to form after his layoff. Welcome back!
Man, Kroy Biermann came roaring back, didn't he? Duffman came up with a timely sack, more than one instance of quality pressure and a fumble recovery. Hopefully we'll see him put up those kind of numbers on a consistent basis, because we could really use the kind of pass rush we saw Sunday. Big ups to John Abraham and Thomas Johnson for a pair of sacks, as well.
The play that started it all off, really, and set the tone for the defense was the Mike Peterson tip that Brian Williams snatched. Williams also managed to catch a showboating (there it is again) Josh Morgan from behind to prevent a touchdown. Lot of credit goes to the defense for making all the plays they needed to...almost. I guess it would've been a shutout if they actually did that.

LOWLIGHT

In a game like this, you have to dig really deep to find something worth getting upset about, and I'm not really into that right now. I will say that I thought keeping Matt Ryan in as long as they did—and letting him run in a touchdown!—was playing with fire against a team that was down and probably none too pleased. It worked out okay, but if we're in that situation again, I'd hope they'd let him head to the sideline before things get out of hand.

THE WRAPUP

Game MVP: Lest I get destroyed by angry fans, I'm going to have to go with Roddy White. He clearly deserved it for his performance and effort on Sunday. Congratulations, Roddy!

Game Theme Song: Since it's worked so well so far...

One Thing To Take Away: We're back, baby!

Next Week: We're going against the fearsome Bears of Chicago, ably represented by Windy City Gridiron. Be sure ot stop by and scout out our soon-to-be enemies.

Final Word: Destruction.

Shallow thoughts and aimless musings on the Jaguars

Tkopa — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:00:53 -0000

After following the team through the draft and preseason and now the first three games, I am forming some thoughts. Maybe you agree, maybe not. I am interested in your comments, well most of your comments. Here are my ideas to date...

The offensive line looked better against Houston than I thought they would. A good offensive line allowed David to get comfortable and the receivers didn't look as mediocre. I don't know what is really happening but I trust Andy Heck, the Offensive line coach, and believe this is the true rebuilding needed. If the line forms as a unit, we are a minimum .500 team (maybe not this year but going forward it looks promising).

Speaking of the offensive line, where is Tra Thomas? After an absolute standout performance in training camp, where did he go? On the pass to Mike Sims-Walker to the one yard line, Mario Williams had beaten Tra and had a bead on David. I am guessing Tra is limited somehow. He was an eligible receiver on one play. Now that is interesting. Hope he is ok.

Quentin Groves seems to be finding his way to be useful faster than Derrick Harvey. Quentin seems to find a way to get into the play. Derrick hasn't found his way on to the stat sheet yet. What a huge mistake trading the entire draft away for him was. Even if he develops, he won't match the performance of guys who could have been taken at 21 or 17 or whatever our draft position was.

We all love Derek Cox, but he is the reason we are worse on pass defense this year over last year. Like it or not, Greg Williams did produce a defense that was decent, not great last year. Derek Cox is someone we all believe will get better. When he does, this defense will become a top 10 defense. Until he does, we need the offensive line to improve to keep the defense off the field. Derek just seems to have all the talent and brains needed, so I look forward to him developing.

Speaking of Greg Williams, he is doing a standout performance in New Orleans. Wow, what a team they have. It is interesting they have the offensive fire power they have and Reggie Bush isn't mentioned. I think Greg Williams is a good coach but it was wrong for Jack to hire him. Last year's chemistry issues were more coaches not getting along than player issues. Jack should not have hired Greg. It wasn't a marriage that could last from the start.

Having said that, I think I like the new defensive philosophy of disguise. Are we a 3-4 defense or a 4-3 defense or are we two two two flavors in one? I think the defensive strategy did a lot to keep Peyton Manning from scoring more points. Something is going on in our defensive coaching that is new. I don't think anyone understands it yet but it is interesting.

Having said that, I still think Ted Monochino is taking up a coaching spot without doing any coaching. He might be the worst hire in Jack's career.

I know Jack Del Rio has a following in Jacksonville but I fail to see it. As a coach he might understand football, as a public figure, he doesn't have a clue how to work a fan base. He comes across as either ignorant or arrogant when interviewed. His comments on not caring about the fans frustration and closing down the David Garrard radio program were media blunders on a top level. I don't care if you think he is right or not, you don't call a guy three minutes before he goes on the air and "strongly suggest" he not do the program. In my opinion David came across as the more mature person. Jack needs to show results on the field, he certainly isn't a Bobby Bowden with the masses.

I do like this team but I don't enjoy the home games like I used to. I remember coming just in time for a Monday Night game last year and the place was packed and full of excitement. That feeling of a crowded stadium with everyone either cheering or holding their breath or even booing is part of the live game experience. An empty stadium doesn't have the same feel. It is still better to see the game live than on television. I don't care what anyone says about big screen HDTV, the stadium is the only way to really understand how the game went.

Looking around the league, the linebackers as a draft class are holding up real well. All of the teams who drafted linebackers in the first and second round are playing them and reaping benefits. The offensive linemen are not showing that same return on investment yet. Jason Smith and Andre Smith haven't found the field yet and Michael Oher isn't living up to first round status. I don't think Eugene Monroe has gotten off to a good start either, but he is playing and developing. We won't remember the first three games if his last 8 are fantastic. So does anyone think ESPN will apologize for suggesting Michael Crabtree should have been our draft choice? What a head case he turned out to be.

So are the Jaguars the best NFL team in Florida? How much farther could the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have fallen? Are they going to repeat their 0-16 season? So how does Byron Leftwich win the Quarterback battle and by game 4 end up as the third string emergency QB option? Did Gene steal Luke McCown from them? I am beginning to think so. I don't wish David any bad luck, but would love to see Luke play sometime this season.

I don't know if anyone is following this but Justin Durant is playing linebacker as well as anyone in the league right now. He is tied for 8th in tackles. Interesting to note, so is Mike Peterson. Justin is a MLB and Mike Pete is an OLB. Mike Pete and Justin Durant would make a great pair on the field together. Daryl Smith is no slouch either and we might have the makings of a pro-bowl group of linebackers right now. I know this, no one is making it to the corner running the ball anymore.

One last item. There is no one on this team I am happier to see than Torry Holt. He was an absolute outstanding free agent aquisision. He is changing the make up of this team in a very quiet way. I can't wait to see Jarret Dillard play. He has been hugging Torry since camp and I think he has some football in him.

Saturday Pre-Game Notes: Tackling The New England Patriots

Dave the Falconer — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 12:15:24 -0000

More photos » by Dave Martin - AP

Hopefully the sight of Falcons celebrating will be a familiar one on Sunday. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

Browse more photos »

This is it, gang. This is the game where the Falcons can drill into peoples' minds with some sort of mind drill that they are a team to be taken seriously.

Fewer and fewer people deny that the Falcons are a good team, but going 3-0 with an emphatic win over the Patriots would dissolve most lingering doubts. It would also put the Falcons in prime position for a playoff run, given that our schedule is fair until we reach the dreaded New Orleans Saints a few weeks out.

This game will hinge on our defense, methinks. If they can make things happen and Mike Peterson gets (yawn) yet another fumble recovery or two or three or four, we should be in excellent shape. If they struggle, Matt Ryan will have to fire more darts into the end zone than a wildlife biologist. Not that I'm saying he can't, of course. Nothing's impossible for Matt Ryan, and I include teleportation and traveling back in time to prevent the Hindenburg from crashing in that assessment.

So now that I'm done rambling, care to look at some links? Of course you would.

Might as well forget Jerious Norwood for this game. He's questionable and hasn't practiced the last three days, so I'd expect Man-ephant Jason Snelling to rumble his way into our hearts once more. Get better soon, Jerious! A home run hitter would be a nice weapon to have against the Patriots.
Could the Patriots be without both Randy Moss and Wes Welker? Welker's been not practicing for most of the week and looked unlikely since Monday, but Moss is a surprising late addition to the injury report, according to the Boston Herald. Without either of those guys, the Patriots would look a little less dangerous. We could use all the help we can get. Welker says he'll play, but we'll see.
The mighty Canadian Press writes that Thomas Dimitroff, general manager extraordinaire, appears to be following the Patriots blueprint. I think everyone who has ever come out of the Patriots organization has to get used to being compared to how that regime did things, but it's still a flattering comparison because the Patriots were knocking every draft out of the park for several years. With time, people will start saying guys draft like Dimitroff.
ESPN's Pat Yasinskas would like you to put the ball in Michael Turner's hands, rinse and repeat. The Falcons will do well if he gets plenty of carries, he argues. He's probably got a good point, but I'd like to think we'd give him the ball if we were winning to grind down the clock and score a few more times. We should try to put the fear of God into the secondary sooner than later.
Much is being made of Tom Brady's middling play through most of the first two games. Yeah, he appears to have turned off god mode for a few, but he's still a very good quarterback and there's a lot of hand wringing for a guy coming off of major surgery in the first eighth of the season. That said, it'd be nice to make him look downright terrible this week.
Matt Ryan's homecoming! Sort of! He did play college football in New England! To his eternal credit, Ryan's focusing on the game and politely reminding ravenous sportswriters that he can always go to the Cheers bar later. Good man, Matty Snowballs.

Falcons And Panthers Recap: This...Is...2-0!

Dave the Falconer — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:01:22 -0000

More photos » by Dave Martin - AP

Chris Houston just wants you to love him. Is that so much to ask? Not after that interception, it isn't. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

Browse more photos »

Do I cheer now? Correct me if I'm wrong. I'm still not quite used to all this winning.

First off, a hat tip to the Carolina Panthers and Panthers fans. That was a hard-fought game the entire way, and I'd prefer not to spend the last quarter of the game frozen in terror. Still, when the chips were down and the going got hard and the cucumbers were all mixed up and the ice was on my windshield in the middle of September, the Falcons got it going and slammed the door on the Teal Cats. That was pretty awesome, and it augers well for our chances of not getting destroyed against the New England Patriots this week.

Lot of props to give out today and only a couple of lowlights, so let's hit the gas on this one. Follow me after the jump, won't you?

HIGHLIGHTS

I can't help but lead off with Chris Houston. The biggest target of our ire this entire off-season got burnt to a crisp more than once by Steve Smith before he just plain got tired of it and grabbed a crucial pick late. It's a great thing for his confidence, and he'll need plenty of that next week when he matches up against Randy Moss. Nice job, Chris!
Matt Ryan was nothing short of terrific today. The interception was a bad start to the game and the drive where we inexplicably called pass plays when we just needed to run out the clock wasn't great, but other than that he was calm, collected and making every single throw he needed to. With Tony Gonzalez available in the passing game, Ryan might take an enormous step forward in 2009.
Speaking of Gonzo, that man can catch a football. He also apparently has a psychic power that causes defenders to stand several thousand feet away. He couldn't have been more open on that touchdown catch if he was the last man on earth.
The offensive line has to get a lot of dap. Sam Baker just embarrassed Julius Peppers today, and guys like Justin Blalock recovered nicely after a shaky first week. Ryan just looks that much better when he's able to stand up for long periods of time.
Nice games from Roddy White, Michael Jenkins and even Marty Booker, who all showed up when they were needed. All the pieces are there for this to be the best Falcon passing attack in recent memory.
The rushing attack looked much better than last week, but I still have some concern's about Turner's lack of utter domination among mere mortals. Teams are clearly game-planning against him, but he ground out the clock and ate up enough yardage to give us the win and atone for his fumble. Jason Snelling looked great, and if Jerious Norwood leaves in free agency in 2010, I think we've got a pretty darn good backup just waiting for the chance.
Mike Peterson is making Comrade Dimitroff look even smarter than usual. With a blocked punt and another forced fumble, Big Play Mike is making a huge mark on this defense. That veteran leadership doesn't hurt, either. Great game for Peterson.
Big ups to safeties, too. Erik Coleman had a ton of tackles and also forced a fumble, while Thomas DeCoud scooped up the one Peterson forced. For a unit with so many concerns, the secondary's been much better than expected. Hooray!
Jason Elam didn't have a chance to kick a field goal, but he also didn't whiff on any extra points. Well done!
Last but not least, Eric Weems had a fantastic day on kick returns, and Norwood had a pretty nice one too. Special teams are still a big part of this team's success.

LOWLIGHTS

There's really not much to complain about, but the team really bent about as far as they could possibly go on defense. Admittedly, Steve Smith is a great receiver and DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are very good running backs. Admittedly. Yet I can't help but feel like this kind of defensive effort against a team like the Saints is going to result in us getting blown out of the water. We have to be able to make big stops on a consistent basis.
There was a little bit of Mike Mularkey's trademark weird play-calling late in the game. When the Falcons just need to run down the clock, he unsuccessfully goes for broke. When they need to go for broke, it's three runs and boom a punt. It doesn't happen often, but ever ytime it does it frustrates the hell out of me. Next time, give the ball to Turner!
We only beat the Panthers by 8 points? GEEZ!

THE WRAPUP

Game MVP: This was a tough call because of Houston's interception, Peterson's excellent play and the strength of the offensive line. Still, I had to hand it to Matt Ryan. He was very, very good and accounted for three quarters of the Falcons' scoring on Sunday, which was enough by itself to win the game. Congratulations, Matt Ryan! I'm sure this makes your entire life brighter.

Game Theme Song: For the sake of good luck, let's go with the same victory theme as last week...but with a twist!

One Thing To Take Away: Our offense can hang with any team in the NFL. No question.

Next Week: We'll be looking to extend our season-opening win streak to three against the Patriots, who are more than capably represented by Pats Pulpit. Be sure to check 'em out.

Final Word: Winningisgreat.

Carolina Panthers Week 2: Offensive vs Defensive matchups

Revshawn — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 17:56:26 -0000

It's strange to be honest. Even though it's only the second week of the season, it feels as if we have gone through an entire season of suffering. It's probably just because of the flashback we had last game the way the season ended, but I don't know. I've grown mighty worried about this week, wondering whether or not Jake Delhomme can bounce back from this latest debacle. The fans have no trust in Jake Delhomme, and because he's still starting on our offense it's popular opinion that the Panthers are done.

The Falcons on the other hand come into this game being the huge favorites to win the game. They had their way with a Dolphins team whom many say do not look at all like the team that bounced back from 1-15 to make it to the playoffs. The Miami Dolphins could not hold onto the football. They would drive the ball downfield, and then just cough it up right back to the Falcons.

However, I did see a few things that were mighty interesting in that game. With 22 touches, Michael Turner managed just 65 yards ((3.0 average)) in spite of having an excellent QB in Matt Ryan taking the pressure off the running game behind him. Is his 370+ carries last season catching up with him? Despite the horrendous play by Jake Delhomme, the Panthers rank 1st in the nation in defending the pass. It's a strength on our team. In order for the Falcons to have a good game, they will need some help from Michael Turner.

And with that, let's count down the top offensive matchups in the week.

Jordan Gross vs John Abraham

For whatever reason, John Abraham had an amazing year last year. Just under forty tackles and 17 sacks, he's a guy you have to keep a constant eye on when he's moving around on the O-Line. He's coming off a hot game with the Dolphins where he molested Chad Pennington, sacking him for two of his three tackles in the game fighting against a depleted Dolphins O-line. Luckily for us though, we have a talented Pro-Bowler in Jordan Gross to keep him off of Jake Delhomme and give him some time in the pocket. If he can shut down John Abraham and the pass rush he brings to the table, it will do wonders to help Jake take advantage of the Falcon's depleted secondary.

Jake Delhomme vs Two Bad Games

This could be another article in itself. Slumps are nothing new in Jake's career, but this is the worst slump we've ever seen. By now, absolutely no one believe in Jake Delhomme. Every time the ball is in his hands, fans cringe in their seats and pray to themselves that nothing bad will happen. But regardless of that, regardless of all of his epic fails and all of his mistakes, regardless of all of the negative things people say about Delhomme, if he is to begin his comeback, save his career, and get this team back in control of the NFC South it needs to start tomarrow against the Falcons. He shouldn't get the ball much, but he needs to convert on 3rd down situations, and not to the other team. If he throws another epic fail, I can't really say what will happen.

DeAngelo Williams vs John Abraham/Mike Peterson

The best direction for the Panthers to attack with the running game would be to run behind the left tackle, Jordan Gross. Williams has been historically better at not running between the tackles anyway, and behind Abraham LB Mike Peterson is arguably the weakest link on a talented LB corps. It goes without saying that the Panthers will need to depend heavily on the running game in order to win the game, and if we can milk Abraham's side of the line for 4-5 yard gains, I wouldn't care if we do it all game.

Jeff King/Daunte Rosario vs Falcon's LB's

The tight ends on our team all had a tremendous last couple of games to end the preseason. Daunte Rosario looked like the ghost of Wesley Walls whoring all of the receptions that he could. Jeff King had almost as good of a game that Rosario had, and he retains his spot since he's the better blocker. We've got weapons at TE, but due to Delhomme's latest breakdown I'm sure that they've all been completely forgotten by the fans in Atlanta. Jake Delhomme would do well to get them involved early, to give them something else to be worried about besides DeAngelo Williams running them over.

----------------------------------

That's really all I have to say for this week. I'm not even going to make a prediction on how the game will turn out. Sure, I'm optimistic about my team. I know that we have the talent to make it to the playoffs. But still....with each and every day that this game grows closer there is a feeling of dread that creeps over you. I don't know, maybe it's just me. I hope it's just me.

You can be sure that all eyes will be on Jake Delhomme this week. Will he come back like he has in the past, or is this truly the beginning of the end of his career? We'll find out all of that and more in Week 2. That's the main storyline going into Week 2, whether you're ready for it or not.

In order for the Panthers to win this game and really run away with it, we're going to have to turn the Falcon's gameplan back on themselves. We have to run the ball better than the Falcons and stop Michael Turner in his tracks. Force Matt Ryan to win the game for his team. I think the main turning point is yards rushing for the Panthers. If Deangelo Williams can rush for 125 yards and three touchdowns, I think it'll be enough for the Panthers will win this game. I anticipate a close, quick game with the running game dominating on both sides of the football.

Get ready for some football this Sunday and keep your beer handy. You might need it.

Why The Atlanta Falcons Need LB Mike Peterson

Dave the Falconer — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:01:51 -0000

via alt.coxnewsweb.com

It's only taken one week for me to do an abrupt 180 degree turn on Mike Peterson.

Yes, I'm the guy who greeted news of his signing back in March with a resounding "meh" worthy of reader Hardcore Falcon. I'm the guy who said he'd be a useful stopgap. I'm the guy who sounded a little bit skeptical of his ability to return to the field at full strength. I also don't believe in the Great Pumpkin, Sasquatch or the little men living in my radio. So sue me.

I don't think it's an exaggeration now, however, to say that Peterson performing well is absolutely critical. He's grabbed a leadership role on this team and seems hellbent on proving that talk of down years and problematic behavior either is in the past or never existed in the first place. After his Falcoholic MVP-winning game against the Dolphins, it's clear that he's still got at least half a tank sitting around and he's ready to use it. Leadership can be an overblown quality, but Peterson's taken to the role so easily and has such a good rapport with Mike Smith that it would be unfair to look past it in this case.

It's critical that a young defense has a leader, and it's more important that a linebacking corps that was pretty average last year is getting a huge boost from the second-year improvement of Curtis Lofton, a better-than-expected showing from Stephen Nicholas and Peterson's excellent play. Against the Panthers, who as previously noted have two strong running backs and a passing attack that might get going if Jake Delhomme can muster up the effort, we're going to require a strong performance from the linebackers to hold up those plays that go beyond the front four. I suspect there will be quite a few of those.

So don't count me among the surprised if Peterson has another giant game against the Panthers. Would it surprise you?