Thanks for posting this one jwn0303!

Here is what really struck me from Don Banks’ article

Has an NFL ever broken in a new general manager (Thomas Dimitroff), a new head coach (Mike Smith), a new franchise quarterback (Ryan), a new lead running back (Michael Turner) and a new kicker (Jason Elam) all in the same season? And let’s not forget that Dimitroff notes the Falcons have turned over more than 50 percent of their roster.

Pretty interesting observation. We are totally in uncharted territory. I think Banks shares the same sentiment that many of us fans feel. Sure, the team won’t be great, but Flowery Branch is a crapload better off than it was last year.

Ryan as a starter? I say why the hell not. Keep him on a short leash though. Not so much as for if he plays like shit, but rather so he doesn’t get killed behind an O-line that is questionable. I think the team should tell him as much as well. He is mature beyond his years and I am sure he would be smart enough to agree and know that it’s what’s best for him and the team in the long run.

Matt Ryan is a stellar QB that can get even better with a solid offensive line. Matt Ryan though should not be thrown into the slaughter on the first regurlar season game against a hungry lions team. Mularkey should at least give the guy who was able to put up some good numbers behind a shatty O-line last year another chance to blow it. All around Matt Ryan is the best QB on our team but the competition is what drives QB’s to be better so I say keep up the controversy. Its not like we are making the playoffs.