Team Effort Of Destruction: A Falcons-Colts Recap
by Dave Choate on Nov 7, 2011 7:30 AM EST
in Comcast Sponsored Posts
Email
Print
Standing at 4-3 coming into Lucas Oil Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons needed to keep up their winning ways. The Saints are just ahead of them, after all, and the Colts were a team that they needed to beat.
After Sunday, there can be no doubt that the Falcons are headed in the right direction. They've had poor games against inferior opponents before--the Seahawks leap to mind--but there was no sign of that in this one. Aside from a lackluster first half from Matt Ryan and a few hiccups in the run game, the Atlanta Falcons absolutely dominated yesterday.
This game gave us a glimpse of what the Falcons could do against the New Orleans Saints next week. They had big passing plays, ran the ball well and forced mistakes on defense. In fact, they were dominant in almost every phase of the game, coaxing a good performance out of Matt Bosher. Sure, the Colts are bad, but they're not so bad that this still didn't impress the hell out of me.
At 5-3, the Falcons are in excellent position in the NFC playoff race. A win next week would make it even better, as would a continued emphasis on a handful of explosive plays a game. It made a big difference in this one.
After the jump, I'll break down some individual performances. You know the drill.
THE HIGHLIGHTS
- Matt Ryan had an inconsistent game, which we'll discuss in more detail later. But when he was on, he was throwing quality deep passes to Roddy White, finding Jacquizz Rodgers short and connecting with Julio Jones on an 80 yard touchdown pass for the ages.
One of these weeks, you gotta hope that Ryan will look like that for all four quarters. But against a team like the Colts, I'll take flashes of dominance. - Michael Turner didn't have a great game--he averaged less than four yards a carry--but he continued to be the bell cow and plowed a touchdown into the end zone in the first half. He remains the focal point of the offense, and he wore the Colts down quickly today.
- Jacquizz Rodgers made his case for more carries. He ran the ball 10 times, a season high, and accounted for 44 yards and a 16 yard catch. As the season goes on, he should continue to gain a bigger role, with his combination of shiftiness and surprising power.
- The offensive line did well in protection. I was particularly impressed with Will Svitek, who held up outside despite one stupid, Sam Bakeresque penalty.
- Julio Jones had his coming out party today, and it was practically a musical. He made a eye-popping diving catch in triple coverage for a 50 yard touchdown, following it up on the next drive with an 80 yarder. Pair that with a couple of nice end-around runs and you have easily his best game of the season.
Jones should be a bigger factor in the weeks ahead, as the Falcons square off against some middling pass defenses and Jones goes from being healthy to lord of all destruction. - Roddy White had a mostly sharp game, aside from one route-running gaffe, and ended up with four receptions for 76 yards.
- Tony Gonzalez is money in the end zone. No one denies that.
- Matt Bosher turned a corner today, in my humble opinion. He booted more than one huge punt, showing an improved leg and good touch on kicks within the 20 yard line. After a much-maligned start to the season, Bosher appears to be growing into his role.
- The defensive line was dominant. Jonathan Babineaux and Corey Peters each produced a sack and a ton of pressure from the middle, and Ray Edwards was good for a fumble recovery. I'm sure we would all like to see a few more sacks, but they were lockdown.
- The linebackers were quality, too. Curtis Lofton got a forced fumble, which was awesome, but Sean Weatherspoon was nothing short of fantastic. It's hard to believe that the tentative, oft-injured rookie from last year is the same guy who is flying all over the field and making plays this season, but it is.
- Kelvin Hayden played well against his former team. His pick of Curtis Painter saved the defense from allowing an offensive touchdown.
- I mean, holy crap, the Falcons didn't allow an offensive touchdown. Even against an inept offensive team, that qualifies as a pleasant surprise.
- This was really a whole team effort. Aside from some hiccups, the Falcons played four quality quarters of football. The level of competition wasn't fierce, but the team showed they're capable of putting forth a superb effort. That matters.
THE LOWLIGHTS
- Matt Ryan is beginning to concern me. Through eight games, he now has matched his 2010 interception numbers. His pick yesterday was ill-advised and returned for a touchdown.
There's not any one thing I can point to with Ryan. I don't know if he's just rattled in the pocket, if his arm isn't doing what he wants it to or if he's making poor decisions. What I do know is that his accuracy has slipped and he's on pace to throw a career high number of interceptions.
I'm not hitting any panic buttons, but this bears watching closely. With healthy options galore in the passing game, it's time for him to hit his stride. - Against a better defense, the Falcons' predictability on offense might cost them. Turner still had way too many familiar carries, and while the coaching staff is to be lauded for taking some deep strikes, there are long stretches of vanilla that would make a Charleston Chew jealous.
- You could only score 31 points? Fie!
THE WRAPUP
Game MVP: Gotta go with Julio here. Two touchdowns and dominant play edges out Sean Weatherspoon's amazing defensive performance.
Game Theme Song: If you don't enjoy hip hop or swearing, you'll want to avoid this. But it gets me jazzed, and so did the Falcons on Sunday.
One Thing To Take Away: The Falcons can handle their business.
Next Week: The hated New Orleans Saints. Be sure to visit Canal Street Chronicles—and don't be a jerk.
Final Word: Kaboom!
109 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Great game. Julio coming around weatherspoon all over the place.
We might be coming into our own. I think this game helps our confidence and we dominates the Saints next at home. Plus payback for that peeing on the field talk from last year.
"I'm about rings now"
~Arthur Blank
by CollegePark4Life on Nov 7, 2011 7:58 AM EST reply actions
I'll take the 31
Here’s my take, similar in many ways:
- We could have scored more, but the coaches went into management mode early – possibly influenced by the wrath the football gods laid on New Orleans for their 62-point drudging?
- Ryan has looked inconsistent, and I don’t think he yet trusts his new offensive line. His feet are shifty and he’s making throws off his back foot a lot. However, as always, he finds a way to settle in. He also looks remarkably more comfortable running the Texas offense.
- For those wondering if we mortgaged too much for Julio, keep this in mind: He never gained LESS than 10 yards every time he touched the ball. I’m sure the Saints are fretting over how they’re going to contain this guy.
- Quizz needs to be carrying the ball 15 times a game. He is a dynamo and I don’t think I’ve seen him lose yardage yet. He is freakishly strong for his size and I think he’s deserved to share the carries with a slower Turner
- The defense was very solid. We got a few sacks, but we had Painter pressured the entire game. Also, our linebackers corp may be one of the best in the league right now.
- Bosher is now serviceable. If he keeps improving, he may move into the “decent” category. His punts actually HELPED our defense instead of hurting.
One more thought about Ryan: He’s not having a great season, but we need to keep some of this in perspective. Tom Brady is also having an “off” year, having thrown quite a few more interceptions than he did all last year. Tom is also struggling behind a somewhat porous offensive line – and guys like Ryan and Brady need a solid pocket to pass well and accurately. I think it’s part of the reason guys like Brees, Rodgers and Roethlisberger are having great seasons – they’re more adept at moving around. And even at that, Big Ben and Brees are also high-up on the interception chart, so I think there’s a trend that is more league-wide than just being limited to Ryan. That said, it’s on the coaches to adapt the passing game so that Ryan is not as exposed in 5 and 7 step drops.
by The DW on Nov 7, 2011 7:58 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
On the subject of three step drops
In higher pressure situations, is Ryan only throwing to his hot read.
Take the pick six: it doesn’t look like he looked roddy’s way before throwing to powers!
Are some more of his ints coming on predictable, quick-drop, hot-read passes? Or are these Ryan’s fault?
by ChrisWells on Nov 7, 2011 8:04 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
I think that particular call was predictable
But I also think Roddy ran the wrong slant. From what I saw, White ran a deeper slant, while Ryan was throwing for a quick slant. I think that was a case of the defense doing their homework and our offensive play call being too predictable.
It was a poor decision rather than a poor throw I felt
And it was a complete sell out by the corner, he made the decision to jump the slant before the ball had been snapped. Good homework by the Colts, predictable by us but I don’t need Ryan’s head just yet.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 8:56 AM EST up reply actions
rec'd
particularly for the last paragraph. INTs are up around the entire NFL this year. Now, unfortunately, Matty hasn’t become other-worldly like Aaron Rodgers yet, but I really don’t see anything to fret about just yet.
I saw many people crying about Ryan’s passes just before the half in which 2 could have been picks, but those were down the field throws in which he and the team were clearly trying to be aggressive since it was shortly before the half. Plays like that don’t bother me, again b/c they were down the field and it would have taken an outstanding individual DEF performance to run it all the way back, and two b/c it’s the Falcons being aggressive in a good spot in which there’s little to lose.
Rec'd
Again, especially for the last paragraph.
JJ did have one catch for 1 yard though…can’t be perfect.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 8:57 AM EST up reply actions
You're correct - forgot about the 1 yarder
Interesting note though: on one of his end-around runs, Julio actually took time to deliver groceries to an elderly couple in Wichita before completing the run for 15 yards. Speed AND integrity!
Man his game was just insane
And when I saw a Falcons player run an end around for positive yards, I nearly fell off my chair.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 9:11 AM EST up reply actions
he's had many of those runs
in preseason games, so I’m glad they’re using those plays now when they do matter.
I’m wondering why they won’t have Roddy run the same type of play? is it because JJ is faster? but it would add to unpredictability on offense, definitely.
Atlanta Falcons fan in Moscow, Russia
Who would you rather tackle in the open field
JJ or Roddy? I know Roddy has moves, but JJ is a huge guy. I think JJ has more runningback qualities and size to him perhaps.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 6:16 PM EST up reply actions
I'm not concerned
Today was actually a great day for Ryan and the crew and I’m not concerned by the lest bit by Ryan’s performance yesterday.when Ryan went out 2 weeks ago in the Detroit game with what seemed to be a serious injury, missed two plays an came back and hit Douglas with a quick slant route that turned into 49 yards it showed me that he is coming around.for one who normally does not fair well on the road did a great job an yes it was a slow start but it is just a matter of time before his confidence comes back.We have to remember that Ryan has never had a season record where he has had his team having to play catch up to get a record back to .500 because they always ended up with a good 1 quarter record in the beginning of the season and he appears to play better as he will when they are winning.
Catch up
Ryan has 5 starts o teams with losing records, and only three of those came this year. He started for an 0-1 team last year, and for a 6-7 team the year before. I’d say he has proven in those situations that he doesn’t feel uncomfortable at all, at least not because of the record or any catching-up-aspect. Something’s off this year, and I don’t think it’s related to that dimension.
Good game
I thought Ryan seemed like he really didn’t expect to throw much.All year he has seemed hesitant.Maybe its cause he got married and he is having to change habits and maybe not spending as much time as he used to on study.I thought Bab’s looked much improved but still not there yet.I was somewhat disappointed that Jaquizz didn’t break one lose.Maybe next week against the saints.I like Mularky but sometimes I swear he is drinking up there in the booth.Roddy doesn’t seem the same.He seems subdued.I get the feeling that again we are a carriage with a team of ten horses that is not working as a team yet.Sometimes we have these brilliant burst of speed and then the next thing you know every horse is pulling against each other.still we are doing much better.I enjoyed the game.I even jumped up from the chair a time or two.Go Falcs
by JT131 on Nov 7, 2011 8:37 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Quizz got so close on his first carry
Love that we’re using outside runs a bit more now.
Spoon was an absolute beast, my game MVP to be honest – sorry JJ.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 8:54 AM EST up reply actions
Ryan needs to step up
Because if we get down early against the saints then it wil be a very long game. JJ is solid and RW is making plays here and there but something seems off with him this season or is it just me???
by Pharoah_Rah on Nov 7, 2011 8:46 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Roddy is ok
I think he’s recovered well the past few games. Truth is, I think he’s actually become the #1B receiver, as Julio is quickly supplanting him. However, Roddy is still getting critical yards when we need them most and he remains a huge threat that defenses have to honor.
I think Roddy feels like he's playing second fiddle to Julio now
and he doesn’t like it. I don’t blame him.
But believe me, Roddy is still the man in the ATL. Julio might be better someday, but Roddy’s easily one of, if not the, best receiver ATL has ever had.
Follow me on Twitter! twitter.com/FalcoholicZippo
If you're a fan of the Falcons, or if you want to chat it up with some Falcons fans, sign up here, share your opinion, and get to know some great fans of the Falcons!
by Caleb Rutherford on Nov 7, 2011 10:33 AM EST up reply actions
I would have to disagree that Julio is quickly supplanting Rowdy Roddy White
Matt Ryan has his support system (Turner), his safety blanket (Gonzo), his go-to receiver (White), and his, pardon the overused term, explosive rookie (Julio). Julio has shown flashes of brilliance such as his two huge catches yesterday. But the fact remains Roddy White is the top option for this passing game. I think Roddy acknowledges that he is no longer required to do everything (like last year when he led the league in targets). He now has a receiver who can take some pressure off of him. I know most people wouldn’t use this adjective to describe Roddy, but I see him being humble and accepting the fact that while his personal numbers will go down, the team has a better chance to win with all the offensive weapons producing in games.
"He has lived up to the legendary billing... And the legend is born in Calvin Johnson!" -Wes Durham
by sportsfan4life2012 on Nov 7, 2011 12:25 PM EST up reply actions
One problem about stepping up
is that the OL will get him killed. (Double entandre)
He does seem to be hesitating a little on the hot reads. I see other QBs hitting the hot read and getting 10-15 yds after the catch. When the receiver is just standing there waiting, they get hit quick. HIT THEM IN STRIDE, DAMMIT!
Anyway, great win. Go Falcons!
Good win
As a defensive guy I look at the fact that the defense shut out an offense they should have dominated. As a defensive player you take pride in that fact that you didn’t allow them to sneak one in on you and you didn’t spare anything, not even a field goal. I tippeth my hat to Mr. Brian Van Gorder, who is overly scrutinized, criticized, and all but crucified by his very own Falcons’ fans. Without the luxury of having a consistent pass rush, he’s had this defense playing pretty damn good since that embarrisingly close win againt Seattle way back on October 2nd.
Offensively, I can’t honestly say I completely trust the schematic approach week in and week out. The offense look good yes, but unlike the defense they weren’t flawless, far from it I’d say. Against a defense that’s nearly ranked last in every statistical category, aside from Julio Jones the offense gave it’s usual production, and some players somehow put out a little less than usual. This is not what you’d expect coming off a bye week and having to play a team like the Colts. As I was typing this I was going to comment on Matt Ryan’s play, but then I saw where someone posted something that sums it all up for me in a few words. “Ryan need to step up”. Period.
Ryan will step up
He has three years of proof that we can rely on. I suspect he’ll settle into the revamped line (Joe Hawley at right guard looked good) and begin being “Ice” again.
For all the attention we paid to the O-Line initially
I feel the criticism/focus has dropped off recently. The line is still really new, and I wouldn’t think we’d have more than 2 games in a row with the same starting 5 all year. Things like that need time.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 8:58 AM EST up reply actions
Svitek is doing Nicely
If he continues while Baker is injured, I think he may have earned the starting role.
Very true
Going against an elite DE (Freeney), he held him to no sacks and only one tackle. Minus the one penalty, he had a very solid game. I think he may be playing Baker off the roster.
The penalty was a bit Bakeresque
But that would have been Baker’s third by that point. Matt Ryan, watch your ankles, we have an actual starter at the LT position.
by TheAreopagite on Nov 7, 2011 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
I think that was a blown play.
I think it was a screen to Julio, but when Julio got caught up in traffic, Matty panicked and tried to go backside to Snelling. The play took so long to develop, Svitek was called for a hold. It happens. I forgive him.
Follow me on Twitter! twitter.com/FalcoholicZippo
If you're a fan of the Falcons, or if you want to chat it up with some Falcons fans, sign up here, share your opinion, and get to know some great fans of the Falcons!
by Caleb Rutherford on Nov 7, 2011 10:35 AM EST up reply actions
I forgive him as well
I will gladly take one penalty and no sacks over three penalties and a couple of sacks. Freeney is an elite pass rusher, and Svitek held his own. Props to him, he had a good game.
"He has lived up to the legendary billing... And the legend is born in Calvin Johnson!" -Wes Durham
by sportsfan4life2012 on Nov 7, 2011 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
Svitek is doing ok but sadly, that's pretty damn good for our line.
But as Clabo said, football’s awful hard!
Roddy is still putting up solid numbers
Not pro bowl numbers but hey, we got JJ in to spread it around more. I’ll take wins over Pro Bowl berths.
I have more patience than most, and I’m still happy with Ryan. I can see where people are coming from, and you can’t deny he put up some awful throws yesterday, but at the same time he still is the heart of the team. He can read D’s like the best, and when we get in the No Huddle we’re as powerful as anyone. I did like the whole game changer vs game manager discussion in the week, but I think we wait to see how he does against the Saints this week. No excuses this week, if he has an off day I’ll side with the “he’s having an bad season” group. If he has a good day, hopefully some of the other side will come back onto the Ryan bandwagon with me.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 8:53 AM EST reply actions
Ryan Wins
Thats all that matters. After 40 years of losing, its nice to actually expect the Playoffs every year! Now we just got to figure out how to win one!
LONG Plays are NICE
I know its not the Falcons Bread and Butter but watching Julio on 2 big plays, that was sweet.
Now lets go beat down some AINTS azz!
Julio!!!!
Did you guys notice his face on the second end around? He is particularly intimidating to a tackler. He’s a guy that can hurt someone. This game looked like a bit of practice to me, seemed like MS took his foot off the gas in the third Q to get some unusual reps in. Btw is Roddy hurt? Seems like we aren’t giving him to many shots these days so I have to believe we are saving his legs.
Rule #1: Double tap.
by Ball Hawk on Nov 7, 2011 9:42 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Only noticed his face when he checked himself on the monitor
80 yard TD, looks at himself on the screen, smiles. He’s our man.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 9:44 AM EST up reply actions
Wonder how often players do that.
I assume they are looking to see if anyone is gaining on them.
I'm on the Twitter: twitter.com/edgrohl
He didn't slow down even though he had no-one chasing
I think it’s to see how they look. Way easier to look over your shoulder than judge off the jumbotron. We’ve seen plenty of fumbles from people checking themselves and getting the ball knocked loose, but when it doesn’t backfire it always makes me laugh.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 9:56 AM EST up reply actions
Over the shoulder makes you lose speed.
Glancing at the jumbo is easier. Probably some of both.
Follow me on Twitter! twitter.com/FalcoholicZippo
If you're a fan of the Falcons, or if you want to chat it up with some Falcons fans, sign up here, share your opinion, and get to know some great fans of the Falcons!
by Caleb Rutherford on Nov 7, 2011 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
Not worried about Matty.
Rivers, Brady, Freeman, Ryan, Brees. What do these 5 names have in common? They all have 9 INTs or more. Ryan is the only one with less than 10.
Matty’s not the only QB having a down year. Yeah, Brees and Brady have 20+ touchdowns, but Brady still lost last night to the Giants, and Brees has lost to the Rams, of all teams. Brady has also thrown 4 picks in a single game.
We’re not the only ones. Should we expect better? Sure, but this isn’t an isolated incident. A lot of teams are having issues.
Follow me on Twitter! twitter.com/FalcoholicZippo
If you're a fan of the Falcons, or if you want to chat it up with some Falcons fans, sign up here, share your opinion, and get to know some great fans of the Falcons!
by Caleb Rutherford on Nov 7, 2011 10:30 AM EST reply actions
Pass defense is moving on up, ranked 19th
guess who’s ranked 31st
I know where the bodies are buried.....I buried some of them myself. - David Stern
by a hooter's baby on Nov 7, 2011 10:31 AM EST reply actions
I hope it's the Aints
Follow me on Twitter! twitter.com/FalcoholicZippo
If you're a fan of the Falcons, or if you want to chat it up with some Falcons fans, sign up here, share your opinion, and get to know some great fans of the Falcons!
by Caleb Rutherford on Nov 7, 2011 10:32 AM EST up reply actions
Nah, it's the Packers
but New Orleans is down 2 defensive backs so they’re due for a meltdown
I know where the bodies are buried.....I buried some of them myself. - David Stern
by a hooter's baby on Nov 7, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
I can't say I'm unhappy at the prospect of Porter missing the game
But it’s never good to see someone go down, especially on a hit which looked so harmless at first. Thoughts go out to him, although the early word is he’s fine which is great.
Who’s the other DB they’re missing?
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions
Absolutely
Patrick Robinson left the game, but I think he’s gonna play. So it’s probably just Porter
I know where the bodies are buried.....I buried some of them myself. - David Stern
by a hooter's baby on Nov 7, 2011 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
In the Packers game to open the season
Patrick Robinson was getting beat with a stick by that Packers offense. I like to think the Falcons will take advantage of him (and Roman Harper’s, well, below average pass defense). This is going to be a great game this weekend. I think everyone had this game circled as soon as the schedule was announced.
"He has lived up to the legendary billing... And the legend is born in Calvin Johnson!" -Wes Durham
by sportsfan4life2012 on Nov 7, 2011 12:31 PM EST up reply actions
agree with you that health is the most important thing
but that’s the style of NO play on defense. they give up lots of yards and compensate for that by trying to strip the ball. in doing so they also cross the border too often. watch that cheap shot on Smith when the Panthers scored a TD. it was either Porter or Harper who earned a 15 yd penalty in that game.
Atlanta Falcons fan in Moscow, Russia
Good game for the most part.
Ryan made a few really bad throws that concern me, not all were necessarily easy but there were ~5 or so I saw that just seemed way off target. Of course it could just be part of the learning process of not being so conservative, although I’m sure some is due to shaky line play we’ve had.
Seems like we really should have done better than we did though. Turner and Ryan should have both had more yards (although I’ll take the win).
Defense look great, but I Colts offense is also pretty inept.
Roddy White
More than Ryan, White is in a big slump. Roddy is more like a Receiver 2 a before TG right now. The story of this season for white has been dropped passes,wrong routes and penalties. He is still the most targeted receiver in the league but his production is down. Matt Ryan and White needs to be in same page because of the timing routes, most of the time Matt has already thrown the ball and expecting white to be there. The interception Ryan threw yesterday was on White.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 10:45 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
White's problems start with Matt Ryan.... the guy who throws him the ball.
by dirtybirdy84 on Nov 7, 2011 10:49 AM EST up reply actions
Matt Ryan is not dropping passes.
White is one of the leading receiver in dropped passes this year. His route running has not been good, may be its because of injuries. Also most of the Ryan’s interceptions this year occurred when throwing to RW. Last two year it has been throwing to TG. I am not saying its all on RW, but he is one of the major contributor in addition to Matt and the OL.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 11:01 AM EST up reply actions
Tampa Bay
Matt hit him between the 8 and the 4 at least twice, and he put them down. I think it’s just a disruption of timing, lack of preseason. I genuinly think the lockout affected rhythm more than we can tell.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
That being said
Matt’s made some god awful throws and Roddy’s dropped some absolute must catch balls. No amount of practice, or lack thereof, should impact that.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 11:06 AM EST up reply actions
Agreed on timing.
Matt Ryan and Roddy White are effective because of timing routes. The Ball is already thrown before white comes back and catches it. Lack off off-season could be a major factor.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 11:08 AM EST up reply actions
think it was injuries that led to timing issues
He said in an interview he is ready to explode in the second half. I hope he is right
by jmpecker on Nov 7, 2011 12:00 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
He looked better yesterday
So I’d be inclined to think it was injury related
I don't think he really looked any better yesterday
He still only caught 4 of the 9 passes thrown to him (everybody else was 10/15).
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Has Roddy had a dropped pass in the last four weeks?
I know he jumped out to a very early lead in the first few weeks dropping almost two passes a game. But I believe he has held firm at seven dropped passes for about a month now. Can’t give the guy too much blame for a slow start. As the saying goes, it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. If Roddy finishes the season at a Pro Bowl caliber, I don’t think anyone will remember his sluggish start.
"He has lived up to the legendary billing... And the legend is born in Calvin Johnson!" -Wes Durham
by sportsfan4life2012 on Nov 7, 2011 12:33 PM EST up reply actions
I hope he finishes strong.
Roddy is an important part of offense,however you cant turn a blind eye when he was holding the team back at least in the start of the season. He had one drop in Detroit game but other than that pretty clean in last 4 weeks. His route running still is sluggish if you watch the coaches tape.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 12:37 PM EST up reply actions
Roddy's routes have never been great
A lot of his routes look like timing routes. And defenses know where he is on the field at all times….that’s why he hardly ever gets deep balls unless a safety gets lazy and bites on a seam route.
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
More involved?
He’s tied for the 2nd most Targets in the league. Roddy needs to produce.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Targets don't equal
completions or good balls being thrown or why Roddy has had a hand full of drops. Numbers don’t make the argument one-sided.
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
by maxxj3 on Nov 7, 2011 5:05 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
No one ever said that numbers make the arguement one sided
Just like peoples perceptions don’t make an arguement one sided.
Do you not see how the number of targets can relate to more opportunities or is that simply lost? Of course targets don’t equal completions, especially when the WR has a catch rate of 55%.
How about you define what “good balls” mean?
ok
No one ever said that numbers make the arguement one sided
Yeah, I know but the comment makes it seems if Roddy gets thrown a lot of balls that equals TDs. That’s one-sided because that’s not the entire picture.
How about you define what "good balls" mean?
It means exactly what it says. Question: Balls thrown behind or thrown into double coverage or thrown in the direction of Roddy but thrown out of bounds are counted in targets right?
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
Yes, all that is counted as Targets
The only possible exception would be balls obviously thrown away (out of bounds). Targets are taken straight from the play-by-play. But it’s the same thing for all the other receivers, too… they don’t count just “good balls”.
And it’s not like this is the first year that Ryan’s been forcing questionable balls into Roddy’s direction.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
at the same time
he’s getting 6.4 yards per target, compared to 10.6 for Julio and Harry Douglas at 6.9. Using those stats, Roddy can’t produce getting the ball at 6.4 compared to the WRs who are on teams that constantly get the ball down field…..which speaks to either the defense played or the offense played…….or Roddy’s not that fast
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
by maxxj3 on Nov 7, 2011 5:14 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
You can't even compare
HD’s numbers to RW’s due to the disparity in the number of catches and targets. Well you can, but your argument won’t have much value.
Have you looked at RW’s YPT for his career? His average YPT is 7.6, which isn’t far from this years 6.4. Couple that with Ryans AYPA of 4.8 being near the lowest of his career and you should see the relationship.
so how can the argument...
“Roddy’s tied for the 2nd most targets in the league, so he should produce,” stand up to the evidence you just produced?
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
Well, for one
I would disagree with mwalex and say that 7.6 YPT (career) is a big difference from 6.4 YPT (this season). I’m not 100% positive on what an “average” WR’s YPT would be, but I can see that he’s 67th of 82 Ranked WR’s this year.
The fact is that Roddy’s Yards per Catch has gone down each year since 2008:
Season-YPC
2008-15.7
2009-13.6
2010-12.1
2011-11.7
He had a big bump in Catch Percentage last year to make up the difference (just over 55% for his career, 64% last season); but this season he’s back down at 55%. He’s either got to be catching 60%+ of his Targets, or he’s got to get up over about 13 YPC. Otherwise, we’re just spinning our wheels throwing him the ball so much.
By the way, I don’t know WHY he’s struggling (injury, Mularkey, O-Line, etc); but I’m pretty convinced it’s Roddy’s contributions that are leading to the Pass Offense’s troubles. Tony G is having a better season this year than last (YPC and C% are both up). Pretty sure we’d all agree Julio is an upgrade over Michael Jenkins. HD is better this year. Production from the RB’s might be down (Snelling was great in 2010 catching passes), but the impact should be small. They’ve gotta figure out how to get Roddy going ASAP.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
by orang3b on Nov 8, 2011 10:48 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed!
Couldn’t have said any better than this. Roddy needs to step up or Matt should start looking at other options if Roddy can’t get open or make plays.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 8, 2011 3:36 PM EST up reply actions
Schedule.
Looking at what is left, we have 5 probable wins and 2 maybes and 1 probable loss. So we aren’t looking terrible so long as we 1up the bucs on the back half of this season. I would love to find the time to compare wildcard and playoff contender’s remaining schedule to give a true forecast of our playoff positioning.
Rule #1: Double tap.
by Ball Hawk on Nov 7, 2011 11:01 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Bears
Hope Bears fall of the cliff and Falcons should be alright if they don’t lose more than 2 games till the end of the season.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 11:03 AM EST up reply actions
Anything below 10-6 will annoy me
But we’d be hard pressed to go anything higher than 11-5. There are too many maybes left in our season for my liking.
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 11:04 AM EST up reply actions
10-6 might not be enough for Play Offs this year.
11-5 might be enough to get in the playoffs with out crazy scenarios.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 11:23 AM EST up reply actions
On Matt again
He had a 120.7 rating on the day, good for 3rd place for the weekend (behind Rodgers and Moore strangely enough). I don’t love the QB Rating stat, but it has a bit of weight to it when it’s that good. Falcons are 18-0 when Ryan puts up a QB Rating of 100+
Be sure to check out this week's Best Case/Worst Case article here.
Follow me on Twitter! @HarrisonN17
by Turner_The_Burner on Nov 7, 2011 11:03 AM EST reply actions
Kelvin Hayden
Seems to not be getting a lot of press, but he played brilliantly yesterday.
I'm on the Twitter: twitter.com/edgrohl
Good to see him come back yesterday.
He played really bad in the GB game. Well can’t blame him playing bad against GB any ways.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
updates Falcons schedule
Nov 9. Colts@ Falcons
Nov 16 Falcons @Colts
Nov 23 Falcons @ Colts
Nov 30 Colts @ Falcons
Dec4 Colts @ Falcons
Dec 11Falcons @ Colts
Dec 18 Colts @ Falcons
Dec 25 Falcons @ Colts
Thank you, and god bless Caldwell
Coaching wins championships!
Dec 4th is a trap game.
I'm on the Twitter: twitter.com/edgrohl
by Duff_Man on Nov 7, 2011 12:10 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I think Matt may be suffering from a bit of Jim Everettitis
No, I’m not saying Everett is anywhere near as good as Matty can be. But if u kiddies don’t remember ol Jim, he became so shellshocked in the pocket he used to give up phantom sacks. Meaning he’d just go down on his own because he as expecting to be sacked. There was usually no imminent danger around him when he curled up into the fetal position and was touched down. Matt’s not giving those up but he’s getting rid of the ball too quickly in anticipation of getting hit. And Matt’s not just getting hit, he’s getting destroyed on sacks. Quite simply,it looks like he has very little faith in the line and quite honestly, he shouldn’t. Sons of those plays when he had a ton of time it was almost like he was just waiting for the hammer to fall andhehastogetridofitnow!!! There’s your overthrow, underthrow, pick. When you’ve got plays like the one when Hawley blocked no one and the play was blown up(and that’s not an isolated thing sadly)your gonna get a QB taking a few steps back literally and figuratively. Even if the line straightens itself out in the next few weeks, it’s still gonna take Matt a bit before he can fully trust them not to get him killed.
by aces666high on Nov 7, 2011 12:22 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
rec'd
there are moments when Ryan hits the panic button, but there are also moments when he’s calm. he won the hearts of Falcons’ fans (well, at least of the majority of those fans) by having more of those moments when he’s calm and poised.
on that sack when Hawley appeared to miss a pass rusher, I think Ryan shares part of the blame. It seemed to me that Hawley was double teamed – there was a pass rusher right between Hawley and the center. Ryan should have recognized the defensive play and audibled at the line.
another thing on Ryan’s mistakes (INTs and sacks because of inability to read the play or taking too much time) is that in many cases those are obvious passing situations when the D pins it’s ears and rushes the QB. and why are those so obvious passing plays? that’s because we are predictable early – run Turner up the middle – and that sets up third and longs.
Atlanta Falcons fan in Moscow, Russia
Yup - except for that sack
I’m sorry – but the sack on the missed Hawley block was all OLine. Ryan had all of .3 seconds before he got drilled.
That int Matt had
was as Jim Mora Jr said, the corner knew from watching film what they like in certain packages. Just like in the Superbowl where Payton Manning threw an int to end the game. Ryan has to be more aware of the coverages surrounding White and Gonzo.
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
Jim Mora OMG
The guys on Falcons radio dissected the play and said how that route was supposed to be run and why RW should not let a corner inside. If Jim Mora watched more tape he would have been coaching some where now. Radio is so much better for analysis than the fox announcers.
It's all about Process...
by Vishnu_falcon on Nov 7, 2011 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
Our team does have two very solid radio announcers
And they’re not over the top homers, meaning if we do something bad it isn’t sugar coated and if we score a TD you don’t have some fool screaming over everyone. For example, on JJ’s 80 yarder, I’m sorry I’m blanking on the main announcers name, anyways, he calmly counted down the yard markers as JJ blazed down the field. Dave Archer, unlike other color guys who’d be howling at the moon at that point simply stated that they weren’t gonna catch him. They’re not stiffs either, when we score you can tell they’re pumped when we’re down, u can feel the disappointment. Wow. I didn’t mean to go on this long.
Wes Durham, who is actually not that reserved. I have clips from 2008 with him going ape-crap over long passes/runs.
You have opinions. We all do. Some of yours may have to do with the Falcons. Sign up today and share them.
You shoulda heard him yesterday
I was listening to the game on a 5 minute delay(please work on this, Sirius radio app! your so good otherwise!)so, thanks to the Falcoholic I already knew JJ scored. Wes sounded like he was counting down a shuttle launch, very calmy reading off the yard markers. He did get a bit excited when he crossed the goal line. Maybe he’s mellowed since 08. Thanks btw Adam!
Well I actually saw the play
The corner already hinted to whomever was covering on the top that he was going to jump the route and he did. It was obvious when you actually look at the replay. Roddy wasn’t going to be open on that slant unless he ran through the corner.
Atlanta will win a championship....someday
Anyone see the praise Joe Flacco is getting from his "4th qt comback?" yesterday
Our Matty has had plenty of those. As much as he has worried me this season I still believe in Ryan. GO FALCONS!! DESTROY THE ’AINTS!!
by !AtlFalcons-fan! on Nov 7, 2011 1:50 PM EST reply actions
ok good win BUT,
NOBODY gives us respect. Ask around who the teams to beat are. Packers, Patriots, Steelers, Ravens, and Aints is what you will hear. I say that to say this, next week is a statement game! Its for the division, and nobody seems to think that we can beat the Aints regardless of last year in NO. Its sickening. I have Superbowl expectations, and truthfully we haven’t been playing worthy this year, but a little more pass protection (which would lead to more comfort and better play for Ryan), + consistency, and more aggression on defense, would make us the team. Long story shortend we need to play championship caliber ball next week and get a convincing win. Time to put up or shut up.
by DEMBIRDZCUZ! on Nov 7, 2011 1:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Patriots should not be on that list.
Not with that God Awful defense.
Ron Artest = Ron (sm)Artest - He Is The Most Interesting Man In The World
by JoshChildressAfroIsCure4Cancer on Nov 7, 2011 3:07 PM EST up reply actions
your right.
In my opinion neither should Ravens or Aints, but ask around and thats what you’ll majority hear. We need to win now and in the playoffs to get respect.
Very True
Otherwise, We’re just an east coast version of the San Diego Chargers
Ron Artest = Ron (sm)Artest - He Is The Most Interesting Man In The World
by JoshChildressAfroIsCure4Cancer on Nov 7, 2011 4:27 PM EST up reply actions
3 home games coming up
I believe this win to be a much bigger win than most. We proved that we can commit to the run amd still add that explosive aspect we have all wanted. We beat a team down that we should have, which is something we havent done much of over the past few years.
Yes the colts are bad, but I dont feel we “showed to much” of what our offense can really do. The end around to julio has been used in almost evey game he has played, so other teams already know about it.
We have 3 home games in a row here where the aints should be the only real test. our team can beat them anywhere they want to play. We play like we did this week, consistant running and good timing on downfied plays and we can go on a roll.
by icon3127 on Nov 7, 2011 2:34 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Ah, so we have a battle a RG!
In one corner, a guy who was unable to keep his job from a back up center. In the other corner, a back up center who decided not to block anyone on a play while playing RG. Who will win? Only time will tell…
For a very depressed BAMA fan...
…Juuuuuuliooooo made me smile today. We really miss him, though. Y’all are so lucky to have him and anyone who doubts will come around to the fact that he is worth every pick traded to get him.
You had me at "ROLL TIDE"!!!
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on The Falcoholic
Related FanShots on The Falcoholic
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
In Association With
Shutdown Corner - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
- All reports positive after Peyton Manning’s first OTA in Denver
- Ryan Tannehill won’t start right away, according to Dolphins’ owner
- Lions WR Titus Young barred from practice after starting fight with teammate
- Winslow move could be a costly one for Bucs in the short term
- Matthew Stafford spends $15,000 to win auction package, then gives it to a young fan’s family
