SB Nation - Kroy Biermann

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

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.

Falcons And Eagles Recap: Hitting Bottom, Bouncing Back

Dave the Falconer — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:29 -0000

by Dave Martin - AP

The Falcons' failure to convert on four consecutive plays near the goal line epitomized their struggles Sunday. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

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If the Falcons had deliberately gone out against the Eagles and vowed to collectively play the worst football fans had seen in years, I'm not sure they could've put up a display that was more disheartening than the one we saw yesterday.

The negatives were numerous. The positives were paltry. The Falcons were dealing with a host of injuries and somehow still managed to play well below my admittedly light expectations on Sunday. Just thinking about it makes me angry. There's almost nothing good I can say about it, and that will be reflected in my weekly highlights and lowlights.

Yet I'm also struck by the idea that the Falcons have hit rock bottom, a low so low that surpassing it would require a giant drill and a team of molemen. Even if this team was to lose every game for the rest of the season, it can't get much worse than this. I know that shouldn't serve as any kind of comfort for me, but in a strange ways, it really does. I feel like there's a chance, however slim, that they will coming roaring back in these last few games and push their way to a winning season. Just don't ask me to explain why.

Of course, you know the season's really gone south when the most comforting thing I can possibly say is, "Hey, I've got a good feeling about this!" Let's all just hope that for once in my life, my hunch is right.

If you've got the stomach for it, I'm breaking this beast down after the jump.

HIGHLIGHTS

Nice job, Roddy White. On Sunday you were the only target worth a damn on the entire field, apparently, and you made the most of your chances. Let no one question your heart, because you looked like you were angry. You looked like you cared the entire game, and your last second touchdown is evidence of that. Big kudos.
Lawrence Sidbury, congratulations on your first NFL sack! Kroy Biermann, congratulations on notching another one. I'm so starved for highlights that you guys are both getting a free pass for anything you may or may not have done for the rest of the game.
Michael Koenen is a very, very good punter, and I am very grateful for that.

LOWLIGHTS

Some of you may be aware of the fact that I am a big St. Louis Cardinals fan. A couple of you may know that Albert Pujols is my favorite baseball player by a very wide margin. If Pujols decides to leave the team in free agency someday, I will always cherish what he's done for my favorite team. When he comes to town, I'll applaud those contributions before the game. I'll recall the way he put the Cardinals on his back so many times, when there was absolutely no one else capable of doing so. Time and the change of teams won't change that.

But guess what will happen when the first pitch is thrown and then later, when Pujols comes up to bat? I will root against him. I will pump my fist when he strikes out, assuming he ever does strike out. During those nine innings, I won't give a crap about what Pujols meant to me for years. He's with the enemy now, and all I care about is the uniform.

That's the type of fan I've been my whole life. The team, and the team's success, comes above almost anything. That's why it was so hard for me to sit there on Sunday, listening to Falcons fans chant for Michael Vick in a game where the Falcons looked about as bad as I'd ever seen them look. That's why I was angry that a man whose indifference towards the Falcons during his time on the team nearly submarined the entire franchise, and who now is being remembered wistfully for being a slightly above average quarterback who was thrilling to watch. I'm glad he's doing well now and appears to have turned his life around, but during a game against the Falcons? He's a guy in an Eagles uniform who is helping that team beat our sorry asses, and there's no way in hell I'm going to take time out during a game we eventually lost 34-7 to applaud the progress he's made as a human being. In my eyes and perhaps my eyes alone, that's not what being a fan of the Atlanta Falcons is about. It's being a fan of one player above the entire franchise, and it really makes me question where the thought process of a lot of people in the Dome yesterday. I try to be as flexible as I possibly can, but this is one issue where I'm afraid I cannot and will not change my mind.

And now you know why, for me, hearing Falcon fans cheering for Vick was a bitter disappointment. My only request, given that I don't expect either side of this issue to fully embrace the other, is that we don't start tearing eachothers' heads off over it. Cool? Cool.
Speaking of bitter disappointments, I don't think Chris Redman could've been much worse than he was for the better part of three-and-a-half quarters Sunday. He was extremely inaccurate and looked like the next hit in the pocket would be the last one he'd ever take. He turned from a Camaro to a pumpkin so fast you would have thought Prince Charming was hot on his heels, glass slipper in hands. I don't know what else I can say.
The coaching staff did a lot of things I didn't agree with on Sunday, but nothing was more baffling than the way they divvied up running and passing plays. They routinely tried going up the gut, then abandoned the run entirely for a very long stretch, then got to the goal line and ran the...wait for it...exact same damn play four times in a row. It might not have been exact and it might have been 11 times. I was blinded with rage at the time.

What the hell is the point of that? A balanced offensive game plan is not balanced because you have 44 passes and 25 runs if you throw 20 times in a row and run 15. That's not how it works! If we're really going to make a run at the end of the season, the play calling has to improve dramatically.
Too many fumbles. Even Special Weems got in on the action, graciously giving the Eagles the ball at one point. He's such a polite young man.
On defense, there's one statement that sums up the Falcons' day: They got gashed by a fullback. Yes, I know. Leonard Weaver is a good fullback. He is not, however, a magical one, who fades into nothingness just as a linebacker goes to hit him and reappears in mid-air ten yards downfield, laughing the crystal-clear laugh of the forest people. He's a goddamn fullback.

THE WRAPUP

Game MVP: Michael Koenen. He did his darndest to ensure that the Falcons could stay in this one, three times punting the ball inside the Eagles' 20. Sadly, this effort was in vain.

Game Theme Song: Like sad trombone, but not quite.

One Thing To Take Away: We played our worst game of the season Sunday, and I will guarantee that. It's all uphill from here.

Next Week: The New Orleans Saints, who locked up the division after narrowly beating the Washington Redskins yesterday. You can find out more about the Saints (if you really want to) over at Canal Street Chronicles.

Final Word: Damn.

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)

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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)

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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.

Sacking Jay Cutler, or Protecting Our (Future) Investment

Dane Noble — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:30:13 -0000

More photos » by M. Spencer Green - AP

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Even before this past April's historic quarterback trade, the Chicago Bears offensive line was a major concern. This became even more important after the acquisition of Jay Cutler, and this season we have seen three new starters on the OL: Frank Omiyale, Chris Williams, and Orlando Pace.

One of the many attributes of our young QB is his ability to avoid the sack, and extend the play with his legs. We have seen his scrambling ability, as well as his talent for delivering strong throws while off balance and on the run. But, Cutler has also been sacked eight times in his first four games for Chicago, and that is not a pace we can afford to keep up.

As the season continues to unfold, we can expect our offensive line to improve with more snaps under their belts, but don't expect the pressure to go away.

So far in 2009, 3 sacks have come from the right defensive ends, 2 from safety blitzes, 2 from linebackers, and 1 from the left defensive end. Our starting running back Matt Forte is an excellent blocker, but we can't expect him to constantly pick up the slack from defensive line pressure.

Looking at the next two games on the schedule, Atlanta and Cincinnati, 12 sacks have come from the right defensive ends. For Atlanta, John Abraham and Kroy Biermann have each registered 2 sacks apiece, while Antwan Odom of Cincy has registered 8.

You can bet that Ron Turner and his crew are taking a hard look at Orlando Pace and the rest of the offensive line, and how to best adjust for the upcoming pressure Jay Cuter will face. Until our running game starts to pick up the slack, Cutler will continue to have to throw the ball, and right now he is getting sacked an average of once every 16 drop backs. And that is with his ability to avoid the rush.

We have to be able to protect our (future) investment better than we have so far...

Observations from Section 326: Week 1

tlozwarlock — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:24:09 -0000

More photos » by Stephen Morton - AP

This, Falcoholics, is an example of "pass interference." One of the many non-calls made by the seemingly pro-Miami referees. (AP Photo/Stephen Morton)

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I write this in awe; total and complete awe. On Saturday my greatest worry was our defense. Today, my greatest worry wears black and gold. "Who dat?" indeed. After you read the game notes, follow the jump for a fireside story full of Falcons and more Falcons. For now, on to the game notes.

So sayeth Dave el Falconer: "We've secretly replaced the Atlanta Falcons defense with a team of powerful cyborgs from the future. Let's see if fans notice." Truer words, my dear Falcoholics, have never been spoken. 4 turnovers. 4 sacks. 2+2, IV, four. In one game. This ain't your daddy's Falcons defense. This isn't even the defense we had last year. What a brilliant, brilliant showing today.
If John Abraham is "The Predator" then Kroy Biermann is "Alien." Holy cripes. Two sacks, great spelling work for Abe, and he managed to make special team tackles. The next great Falcon nick name? Beer Man!
Either Peterson hits hard or Forsano shall forever be known as "butterfingers." The rationalist in me says "a bit of both" but the fan in me says "Peterson's a brick wall with wheels."
Williams has been with the team all of five days. He comes in day one and scoops up a fumble. You have to hand it to our Comrade and Smitty; they can surely pick 'em.
Domination is a good word. We kept Miami scoreless for 56:39. Fifty-six minutes and thirty-nine seconds of game time.
Matt Ryan was a bit rusty in the first half, over-throwing and making iffy reads. But he settled down...
Elam was a relative rust-bucket, ruining my fantasy team's chances with a 2/4 FG mark and a missed extra point. I don't know if he was thinking about the plot of his next book or trying to get rid of a hangover. Whatever it was, I hope it gets fixed.
Tony Gonzalez, as we have well established, was a fantastic move. Today, he proved that by grabbing just about everything that came his way. That touchdown catch+run in the third quarter was a lovely piece of work. Here's the formula for those not keeping up: Pro Bowl TE + Franchise QB + Reliable Runner + Stout Defense = Success.
The Dolphins had Turner's number all game long, at least until the last drive. Turner could just about smell the endzone. I suppose the Dolphin D had given up or had simply been brutalized so much they couldn't continue to contain the Burner. Regardless...
I really wish the team had piled on another score with a minute fifty left, especially considering that, were Elam's kicks all good, we would have been up 26-7 anyway. Maybe I'm just saying that because I desperately wanted my fantasy running back to score today. Or maybe I'm just one of those mean guys in Madden who runs up scores. I guess that's why I'm here and Coach Smith is stalking the sideline and calling the shots.
Don't know what was up with the refs, but they missed at least two very obvious pass interference calls. And then they allowed a Dolphin receiver to "catch" a ball with his thighs and butt after the nose of the ball hit the ground. Fabulous work, guys.

Thanks to Falcons New Media Director Dan Levak for making this story happen. Thanks Dan!

MentallyMIA and I arrived at Gate E a tad bit early to pick up pregame sideline passes. Once we had them, Dan led us towards the field. On the way, the following occurred:

"Hey Dan," someone exclaims from behind the three of us.

Dan looks around. "Hey Thomas!"

MentallyMIA and I turn around.

"Hey! How're you guys doing?" asks the gentleman as he steps in line with us.

"Buh, uh...*silence*" replies MentiallyMIA.

I lose it for a moment, the recognition of the face staring back at me slow to travel from my eyes to my brain. I finally manage a smile and a slightly distant "I'm doing well, Mr. Dimitroff."

And then the Comrade jogged forward and entered the locker room with what seemed to be a knowing smile on his face. Perhaps, even then, two hours before the game, he knew of the upcoming domination of the Fish.

A few moments later, Mental and I were on the field, crossing that mythic yellow-dashed no-zone. Harvey Dahl, standing ten feet tall and just about as wide, shot a wave at me. I cowered for a moment before nodding in his general direction, making sure to quickly break eye contact. As we made our way across the Falcons bench, Dan explained the equipment and how everything on the sideline was done, from the headsets to the play-by-play snapshot maker.

Once settled in our sideline "area," we chewed the fat with Dan a while and started snapping off pictures. I managed to catch this with my camera before actually seeing it:

That, ladies and gentlemen, is Harry Douglas 5 days after having invasive knee surgery. With a very slight favor to the injured leg, HD scooted in front of us. Mental, being the gungho soldier he is, called out "That knee looks fine!" Harry turned around, pointed at James, and nodded. "Just had surgery on it Tuesday! It's feelin' good man! Can't wait to get back out there." I pointed right back at him, "Neither can we, but we want you healthy!"

Once 12:30 rolled around, Mental and I made it back to our seats and enjoyed one heck of a game.

Post Game Thread: Falcons Hang On Against Dolphins 19-7

Dave the Falconer — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 20:30:44 -0000

More photos » by John Bazemore - AP

Matt Ryan showed good poise in leading the Falcons to a win over the Dolphins Sunday. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

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There is absolutely nothing quite like starting the season off with a win.

The Falcons compensated for a middling game out of Michael Turner with a balanced passing attack and a very complete defensive effort from the defense. We'll do a more fleshed out recap later, but this is the space to discuss all things Falcons and the still warm glow of the win.

A couple of observations for you to chew over, though:

Matt Ryan spread the ball around well, but it's clear that there's the top three options, throws to running backs out of the backfield and not much else. Brian Finneran, Marty Booker and Eric Weems aren't going to see the field much.
Kroy Biermann is making a case to start, or at least play extensive snaps. He joined John Abraham in piling up a pair of sacks, and our run defense and pass rush looks leaps and bounds better than last year.
I hope Peria Jerry's okay after leaving the game. We're going to need him.
Curtis Lofton is so great. He's so great that he went back in time, punched Alexander the Great in the face and stole his title. What a badass.

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday!

Saturday Pre-Game Notes: Tackling The Miami Dolphins

Dave the Falconer — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 16:00:38 -0000

More photos » by Dave Martin - AP

Michael Turner will have some help Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

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It's football season!

It's a testament to how much I love the NFL that I eagerly tracked almost every minute of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans game on Thursday night, and I had absolutely zero stake in that game or any interest in either of the teams. There's something about seeing any kind of NFL game that warms me to my very soul.

Of course, nothing's better than watching the Falcons, and they'll take the field Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. As two of the most surprising teams in the league last season, we'll be facing off against one another and an enormous pile of hype. Fans of almost every other team have begun to pile on against us, especially in the NFC South, to which I say enjoy it. If they're wrong, I think our record will do all the talking we need it to.

But that's the general. If you'll follow me, we'll take a look at a few links which break down some of the more specific dramas we should be seeing come gametime. You've waited this long for the Falcons to play. Hopefully you can wait one more day.

Flashy, speedy back Jerious Norwood is set to go for Sunday. The Dolphins are going to gameplan extensively for Michael Turner, so having Norwood's vastly different style on hand is going to be a huge boost. With a talented young defense going against us, different looks will be critical, as will the potential Norwood offers for breaking a huge run and changing the tide of a drive. Glad to see him healthy.
Luckily, John Abraham is also healthy. I'll be interested to see what Kroy Biermann and Lawrence Sidbury can do, but until they prove themselves Abraham is still essentially a one man pass rushing machine, and he'll be critical to our success throughout the season. One of the most effective ways to stop any quality offense is to hurry and hit the quarterback, so here's hoping Abraham goes Biblical on Chad Pennington.
Speaking of tests, the Dolphins are likely to give the defense more than a few fits. It's a young unit, and while I've liked everything I've seen from the front seven thus far, but even Mike Smith is admitting that he's a little bit worried about how the youth movement is going to go. That concern is still sharpest in the secondary, where nobody looked particularly great during pre-season action. This won't be last last year when we had the honor of drawing the hapless Detroit Lions first, because there's no way Miami doesn't give us a few fits throughout the game.
Those of you who have been here for a little while will remember how badly I wanted the Falcons to draft tackle Jake Long last year. Instead, the Dolphins beat us to it, and we ended up with some guy named Matt Ryan. The lesson, of course, is that I have no more idea of what I'm talking about than Mel Kiper does. Interesting article about that here.
The idea of a specialized weapon out of the backfield has been growing in recent years, with teams using hybrid QBs/RBs/WRs to try to throw off opposing defenses and open up the field. The Dolphins likely drafted Pat White for just such a purpose, but they'd sooner kill you than tell you that. How the team will use the much-heralded Wildcat and White in particular is still an open-ended question, but I'd be amazed if we don't see him on the field.
It's clear that Miami's gameplan is going to have to revolve around defense. They're not going to worry about what our D can do to them until we give them a compelling reason to worry, but Tony Sparano is a smart coach and he's going to want to lock down Michael Turner early and force Matt Ryan to throw, preferably without a lot of time to do so well. The offensive line must do its job and do it well to give plays time to develop, and I have an enormous amount of confidence that they can. Let's hope I'm right.

The Atlanta Falcons Enter The Season: Of Cuts And Hope

Dave the Falconer — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 12:00:53 -0000

by Dave Martin - AP

Does this remind anyone else of those old electronic football games? You know, the one where the guys all shook their way violently down the field? It was the All-Hypothermia Team. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

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The cuts have been chronicled, and the travels and travails of those who fell from grace here in Atlanta have been capably discussed by my armored co-blogger. In simpler language, we're done there.

What I want to focus on today is the guys who survived the bloody weekend, the "final" 53 who probably aren't actually all that final. By the time you see this post, I'll be dreaming of playoff berths and the Falcons might take someone else behind the woodshed in favor of Brian Williams. This, instead, will be a look at those who stand to gain from the cuts and those who are in difficult spots, either because of the team's recent transactions or their particular skillset.

As you might imagine, you can find the bulk of this post after the jump. Just don't sprain your ankle on the way over, alright?

OFFENSE

A Winner Is You: John Parker Wilson, who watched D.J. Shockley give the ball to the defense in a thoughtful and heartful gesture, took copious notes, mixed chemicals in a lab and learned not to throw interceptions or fumble, damnit! I stand by my earlier comments that JPW does not have the physical toolset necessary to really climb up a depth chart, but he plays very careful football and will make an excellent backup as long as he does that. If Redman moves on in a year or two and JPW gets better, he might actually take that spot.

Oh Noes! You Lose: Verron Haynes, who survived the initial roster cuts but isn't going to see very many carries buried behind Michael Turner, Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling. Early indications are that he won the job because he's better at pass blocking than Thomas Brown, which would seem to be less relevant for a fourth running back than specials teams value, but Brown is only a call away. The veteran will have to leverage his strong skills and provide value when he does get the rock to fend off the young guy, a tough proposition in such limited playing time.

Winner Winner: Eric Weems, who won the support of the coaching staff by making a few nice grabs and proving he's pretty decent in returns. To be a fifth or even fourth receiver in this league, you must add special teams value, and Weems has fought his way onto this team fiercely. He won't get many chances to catch passes, but if he does well when the ball leaves the tee he's a mortal lock to finish the year with the Falcons. If there are any injuries, I'm reasonably confident the guy can make things happen in the slot.

To Lose, To Suffer: Marty Booker. Even though he's most assuredly ahead of Weems on the depth chart, his chances of surviving the season unscatched aren't nearly as good as his younger counterpart. Booker still has something left as a pass catcher and would be valuable if anybody goes down, but a healthy roster can't carry a guy with negligible special teams value forever in a fourth receiver role. Maybe I'm underestimating the guy and he'll prove to be versatile, but somehow I don't think so.

Winning Ain't Easy: Big ups to Keith Zinger, a man's man if there ever was one. When he didn't make the team after being drafted late in 2008, he went into the Canadian wilderness, slew many bears with his bare hands and made his own shelter out of rocks and discarded Labatt Blue bottles. He emerged a much more complete tight end than the pass-blocking specialist who the Falcons got last year and held on against prototype third tight end Jason Rader. With two very capable pass-catchers in front of him, he won't get much action this year, but he's a promising player who could have an expanded role in the future.

No Rest For The Weary: The offensive line, which absolutely must avoid injuries this year. I like the promise of guys like Will Svitek and Garrett Reynolds, but I wouldn't necessarily bank on them being able to carry the team for a sustained period this year. With a very stout offense that thrives with a little time, the Falcons really can't afford to give up valuable milliseconds that could result in Matt Ryan speculating about the patterns on the Georgia Dome roof. If this line is in great shape, beautiful. If not, it could get ugly.

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

The Land Of Pass Rushing: Peria Jerry, come on down! You've been selected to single-handedly lead our flagging pass rush in the year ahead! You'll be tutored by John Abraham, one of the finest to ever wear a Falcon uniform, and Jonathan Babineaux, who is p. Your companions on this once-in-a-lifetime trip will be Chauncey Davis and Jamaal Anderson, both fighting for a job with young whippersnappers like Kroy Biermann and Lawrency Sidbury. Does that sound crowded? No worries--none of the defensive tackles behind are being counted on to pass rush, so this enormous task falls squarely on your giant shoulders. Ready to be a hero? I think so!

The Two-Headed Defensive End: Davis and Anderson, who are in the unenviable position of battling with one another and fending off two young players who made a real push this off-season. Anderson is probably stronger against the run and Davis against the pass, but neither has been a standout during their careers thus far, and Anderson in particular is playing for his job this season. Early struggles could lead to extended stays on the bench for one or both, and chances are very good one of them is going to freefall down the depth chart before Week 17.

Hold The Line(backer): To all three starting linebackers, who saw their most substantial competition for minutes disappear with the cuts. With Jamie Winborn gone, in particular, both Stephen Nicholas and Mike Peterson seem ready to get monster minutes. Coy Wire can do some damage in a pinch but likely won't sniff starter minutes without an injury, and Spencer Adkins isn't even a lock to get on the field on defense this season. Curtis Lofton, as we all know, is a dimension-skipping devourer of time and space who has no competition, even from himself.

Cornered: Chris Houston and Brent Grimes, who are going to be looking over their shoulders off the field to an inordinate degree. While Chris Owens and Chevis Jackson fight for roster spots, both these young corners will be clinging to their starting spots while the coaching staff determines what they have in Tye Hill and Brian Williams. Williams could also rob some time from Thomas DeCoud if he isn't careful, so there's a lot of recently drafted or signed guys who have good reason to be skittish. If nobody steps up in the early going, you could be looking at a Hill and Williams tandem by much earlier than mid-season.

Kicker, Punter, Soldier, Spy: Hard to call either Jason Elam or Michael Koenen winners or losers, honestly, because they're both in the same positions they've always been in. What does benefit both is the likely strength of the special teams unit, which with Koenen's laser-guided punts and Elam's boot should have no problem doing some real damage against enemy returns. Of course, it goes without saying that both are as solid as they come...but will they ever find true happiness in such a lonely profession?

So that's a rough rundown, I guess, of how some of the battles shook out and what is still to come. If you've got suggestions on more positions that need to be covered. If not, I'll soak in your praise and adulation any time you're ready.

Falcons And Ravens Recap: The Pre-Season Is Over

Dave the Falconer — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:00:37 -0000

by Dave Martin - AP

John Beck escaping pressure was an all too common sight Thursday night. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

View full size photo »

In all my years here at The Falcoholic, there has never been a game that has made me feel less emotional. It was hard to feel happiness or real anger following this game, probably a combination of it being pre-season action and a pretty thoroughly dull contest.

Despite the apathy this game instilled in me, several people sealed their fates Thursday for better or for worse. It's pretty clear how our wide receiver depth chart is going to shake out at this point, I think, and the competition for the third quarterback slot was all but decided by the play on the field. Our defense managed its best Jekyll and Hyde impression, managing to look hideous and wonderful, sometimes in the span of the same play. It was, compared to the nail-biter against San Diego last week, as uninspiring a game as they come. But it did make a difference.

Join me in welcoming the warm glow of the regular season, and then let's break this down.

HIGHLIGHTS

I'm an unapologetic Shockley defender, and I have been since he was drafted. If not for his injury, I firmly believe he would have drawn a few starts following the departure of Michael Vick. Alas, poor Shock is not long for this team, as John Parker Wilson played a solid, average sort of game while Shockley imploded. JPW had one fumble--and he was moving around a lot thanks to the second-team offensive line--but otherwise played a cautious, mistake-free game of football. He doesn't have the physical tools of Shockley, but he's a game manager and could be groomed to be the backup someday. I fully expect him to win the job.
Thomas Brown made a strong case for a roster spot, running pretty well on 11 carries and fielding a pair of kick returns capably. If there's one position where the Falcons are likely to load up, it would be running back, so Brown stands a pretty good chance of surviving the final cuts.
Three receivers made strong cases to stay with the team. Eric Weems had a couple of nice grabs and looked, once again, good in the return game, and he'd make a pretty terrific fifth receiver option because of his special teams value. Chandler Williams looked amazing on kick returns, and special teams is definitely his calling card. Meanwhile, Marty Booker looked good enough again to win a spot low on the depth chart, but offers no special team value. It might not matter much, but I'd prefer keeping Weems and Williams because they're younger and more versatile.
Keith Zinger should be the third tight end. Sorry, Jason Rader, but Zinger looked plenty capable Thursday night while making a couple of grabs and throwing a couple of key blocks.
Remember when I told you Peria Jerry was going to be just fine. Well, just call me the Oracle at Delphi, because I totally nailed that one. With a sack, constant pressure on John Beck and four tackles, Jerry looks to be getting better in a hurry and is a lock to line up with the starters against the Miami Dolphins. With the need for a pass rush still quite pressing, he's going to have value right away.
Speaking of value, Kroy Biermann illustrated his by looking pretty monstrous out there. Honorable mention goes to perpetually unappreciated end Jamaal Anderson, who after a shaky start managed to not look like the total bust many have already written him off as. If Anderson's getting motivated and Biermann can keep that motor running, this pass rush suddenly looks much improved even with Lawrence Sidbury drawing a ton of playing time.
To keep my habit of searching for the positive in the secondary going, Chris Owens did force a fumble. High five, Chris!

LOWLIGHTS

With the starters in, Mike Mularkey's offense isn't going to look that boring, but it's worth mentioning that the Falcons weren't exactly moving at a great clip against the Ravens. Part of that is undoubtably due to their defense, but you can't totally ignore the fact that our playcalling is a little predictable at time. That goes doubly for Brian VanGorder, who can no longer escape notice as the defensive coordinator for a team that has allowed second-and-third string quarterbacks to throw more than ninjas at a shuriken convention. Part of it is personnel, but I would really like to take a critical look at the packages being called and see if our guys are being put in a position to succeed.
The secondary portion of this more or less writes itself. We have got to start seeing more out of this unit. I don't want to judge too much based on pre-season, but it's all I have to go on and I'm starting to get legitimately worried about it. Chris Houston is a nice dude and he's clearly got the talent, but something is going on that is causing him to not be in the right place at the right time, and that could haunt this team something fierce come Week 1. I'll be interested to see whether Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff will push the guys hard and stand pat or if there's another signing on the way.
It's one play, but Ferguson's end zone drop of a nice JPW pass probably dropped him below Weems and Booker in the pecking order for a roster spot. The fact that Williams and Weems got all the special team action doesn't say much, either. I wish him well.
I've already mentioned this, but obviously Shockley needed a good game to save his roster spot and wasn't able to deliver. I really hope he gets another shot in this league if he does end up on the cut list.

THE WRAPUP

Game MVP: I've got to hand this one to Peria Jerry. In a game that featured grinding action, Jerry ground more than anybody, and he's a grounded individual. Ground ground ground.

Game Theme Song: The gentle snoring of a fan who has, with a half-full beer in his hand and his Falcons hat tipped down over his forehead, fallen asleep in the wake of that game.

One Thing To Take Away: This team is improving and this team has a much clearer roster picture, but the defense still must improve.

Next Week: We'll be up against the Miami Dolphins in our first regular season game, and it should be a very entertaining contest all the way around, as they're a young team with a few question marks on defense and a pretty talented offense. Check out The Phinsider for more about next week's game.

Final Word: Notwithabangbutawhimper.